On Adventure

ON ADVENTURE PODCAST |  EPISODE 73 Episode 73: Running is Life with Aaron Saft As a species, we only do things if there is truly a reward on the other side. So when the reward is pain, struggle, suffering, and danger, what exactly keeps driving us back out the door? Aaron Saft has spent his life chasing that answer. A five-time ACC champion at NC State whose teams finished third at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, he traded the track for the trail, ran his first 100-miler in 2016, and has since become one of the most experienced ultrarunners in the Southeast. Today he coaches roughly 75 athletes full-time through his Running Is Life platform and podcast, a business he deliberately renamed from "MR Running Pains" because he believes running, done right, should bring as much joy as it does suffering. His résumé reads like a bucket list for the sport: the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, the Bigfoot 200, Hardrock, Leadville, UTMB, and the Tor des Géants in the Italian Alps, where a fall, a head injury, and a watchful medic ended his race. He has finished a 100-miler while spiking a 100-degree fever, outrun a mother grizzly and her cubs in Canada, and learned the hard way when to push and when to stop. But ask Aaron why he does it and he won't point to a trophy. He'll point to the upside-down photo of his family pinned to his quad, the one he looks down at in the darkest miles to remember who he is suffering for. In this conversation, Josh and Aaron trace the many forms the "why" can take. They dig into presence, learning to run a hundred miles one mile at a time, and the moment an empty drop bag at Leadville taught Aaron everything he needed to know about the generosity of the trail community. They talk about the one question you never ask an ultrarunner, the evolution from chasing a place to simply chasing the finish line, why legacy is something children catch rather than something we teach, and how an abundance mindset shaped the coaching practice he built from the ground up. It is a conversation for every everyday explorer about doing the hard things that make life fuller, right now, not someday. Episode Highlights •     06:00  The Terry Foxworth connection and the heart of On Adventure: the reward beneath the suffering •     15:00  Running Is Life: why words matter and reframing the sport away from pain •     19:00  From reluctant soccer goalie to cross country, and the high school coach who changed his life •     24:00  The NC State years: five ACC titles, redshirting, and racing the steeplechase •     28:00  Virginia, mentor Ben Thomas, the run shop, and the move into trail running •     33:00  First 50K to first 100: the long adventure runs that planted the seed •     37:00  What 100 and 200 miles teach you that a marathon never will: presence, mile by mile •     38:00  Finishing the Grand Slam and the Wasatch 100 with a 100-degree fever •     44:00  When to keep going and when to stop: the Tor des Géants head injury and a fevered DNF on Mount Mitchell •     52:00  Intrinsic motivation, the family photo on the quad, and the "debt" a race director taught him about •     55:00  The empty drop bag at Leadville and the generosity of the trail community •     59:00  "What do you need?" The only question you ask an ultrarunner •     01:01:00  Adventure versus performance, "level 49," and racing for the finish line instead of the place •     01:08:00  Legacy as something caught, not taught, and raising two runners of his own •     01:13:00  From brick-and-mortar to online coaching: 75 athletes, an abundance mindset, and a teaching heart •     01:25:00  Rapid fire: the grizzly bear, the Altra Lone Peak 9+, best and worst races, and five 100-milers in one summer Resources and Mentions from This Episode Here are the people, places, and resources Aaron mentioned in this episode: •     Running Is Life, Aaron's coaching practice and podcast •     Training for the Uphill Athlete, the team's recent book study and a foundational training manual •     Races referenced: Grindstone 100, Mountain Masochist 50, Hellgate 100K, Western States, Leadville 100, Wasatch 100, Hardrock 100, UTMB, the Bigfoot 200, the Tor des Géants, the Cocodona 250, and the Ouray 100 •     Gear note: the Altra Lone Peak 9+ with the Vibram outsole Free for Listeners: The Money Trail Guide Josh's free resource for everyday explorers is packed with practical insights on planning for any adventure, big or small, minimizing trail waste along the way (yes, that means taxes), and living with confidence toward whatever is most meaningful to you. It also includes key takeaways from recent On Adventure guests to help inspire your next steps. Grab your copy at ridgelinewealthadvisors.com. Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. •     Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms •     Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content •     Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self •     Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self •     If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it

6/12/26 • 66:51

ON ADVENTURE PODCAST |  EPISODE 72 Episode 72: Risk in Every Form with Greg Winchester    Episode Description What does it take to keep saying yes to risk, in the boardroom, on the trail, and across all seven continents, for forty years and counting? Greg Winchester calls himself an armchair explorer, but the title sells him short. Over a 40-plus-year career in commercial real estate, he has worked through the savings and loan crisis, the 2008 financial crisis, and COVID, first as a banker, then as a co-owner, and today as an investor through his family office, Summit Investors. In 2003, he and two partners bought their company from its founders in a management buyout, personally guaranteeing the entire debt with 300 employees and no safety net. As Greg puts it, it was like walking to the end of the diving board and jumping, hoping there was water below. A lifelong Boy Scout who fell in love with the outdoors in the Roan Highlands of North Carolina, Greg went on to serve on the board of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and to build a life of generosity that reaches all seven continents, inspired by the book Seven Summits. From an orphanage in Bolivia to a pastors' training center in Uganda, a nearly thousand-year-old cathedral in Winchester, England, and Sir Ernest Shackleton's grave on South Georgia Island near Antarctica, he and his wife set out to support smaller, lesser-known nonprofits and build real relationships, not just write checks. In this conversation, Josh and Greg trace the many forms risk can take. They dig into why leverage is a two-edged sword, how diversification and dry powder let you run into the fire when others are running out, why your gut becomes a kind of superpower after twenty years in any arena, and how setting goals every year since his twenties shaped a life of purpose. Greg also shares the two questions a pair of mentors asked him in his mid-fifties, what is a noble cause you can get involved with, and what do you actually want to do, and why finishing well may be the greatest adventure of all. Episode Highlights          00:00  An armchair explorer who spent forty years navigating real estate's biggest crises          03:00  Stumbling into commercial real estate from a bank management trainee program          06:00  The 2003 management buyout: 300 employees and everything personally guaranteed          12:00  Jumping off the high dive and hoping there is water below          14:00  A lucky break, a termination fee, and the real mix of hard work and luck          17:00  Three things that get people in trouble: cycles, capital structure, and diversification          20:00  Running into the fire in 2008 and why leverage is a two-edged sword          23:00  The gut instinct you earn after twenty years in any arena          25:00  Seven Summits and a vision to serve nonprofits on all seven continents          29:00  Winchester Cathedral, a 950-year-old Bible, and Shackleton's grave near Antarctica          38:00  What rises to the top: relationships, faith, family, and friends          40:00  A Boy Scout in the Roan Highlands and a lifelong love of the trail          46:00  Moving toward something, not away, and setting goals every year since his twenties          50:00  Finishing well and the two questions that reshaped Greg's second act Causes and Organizations Greg Supports Here are the people and organizations Greg mentioned in this episode: •    Summit Investors, his family office investing in real estate across the Sun Belt •    Auburn University Master of Real Estate Development program, where he serves as an adjunct and industry connector •    The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, where he served on the board •    The South Georgia Heritage Trust, stewards of the historic church and museum on South Georgia Island •    The National Christian Foundation, which helped guide his international giving Free for Listeners: The Money Trail Guide Josh's free resource for everyday explorers is packed with practical insights on planning for any adventure, big or small, minimizing trail waste along the way (yes, that means taxes), and living with confidence toward whatever is most meaningful to you. It also includes key takeaways from recent On Adventure guests to help inspire your next steps. Grab your copy at ridgelinewealthadvisors.com. Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. •    Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms •    Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content •    Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self •    Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self •    If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it

5/29/26 • 56:18

ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 71 Episode 71: Solo Female Travel, Real Risk, and the Belonging We All Crave with Amanda Black            Episode Description What does it actually take to step on a plane alone, head somewhere most people would call risky, and come home a different woman? Amanda Black is the founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network, a community of more than half a million women that started as a small Facebook group during her expat years in Australia. Ten years and roughly thirty tours a year later, she leads women into places the average traveler tends to avoid: Egypt, Morocco, India, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and beyond. Bali was the first trip. Seventeen women signed up. Nine of them ended up with the company logo tattooed by the end of it. We talk about why she leans into destinations perceived as less safe, what real risk actually looks like versus the version we imagine, and why she pushes back on the idea that travel is simply safe or unsafe. Risk, she argues, is a spectrum and a muscle, and most women have a lot more capacity to build it than they have been told. We also get into the quieter side of all this. The cobblestone cafe in Sighișoara, Romania, where women who had known each other only a few days started telling the truth about how lonely life back home really feels. The Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia, where she felt like she had walked into a movie set with no electricity. The unexpected pattern she keeps noticing across every trip, every country, every group: people are not really upset about the hotel room. They want to belong. Amanda also shares why she launched Kindred Community, a smaller, slower offering built around connection retreats in Southern California, and what almost a decade of leading women into the wild has taught her about courage, capability, and the kind of friendships that get a logo tattooed on someone's wrist. Episode Highlights 00:00  Welcoming Amanda Black, founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network 01:00  Building a community of 500,000+ women and running tours in 25 countries 03:00  Why she leans into destinations perceived as less safe: Egypt, Morocco, India, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan 05:00  How strangers become a travel family inside the first 48 hours of a trip 08:00  From a Facebook group in Australia to a first Bali trip where 9 of 17 women got the company logo tattooed 12:00  Talking honestly with women about safety, fear, and the gray areas of real risk 15:00  Risk on a spectrum: why "safe or unsafe" is the wrong question, and how to build the muscle over time 17:00  Mongolia and the Golden Eagle Festival: stepping into a place that felt like going back in time 20:00  What solo travel reveals about how strong and capable women really are 22:00  The hidden business lesson behind a decade of tours: everybody just wants to belong 24:00  A cobblestone cafe in Sighișoara, Romania, and the loneliness that surfaces when women finally feel safe to share 27:00  Kindred Community and the next chapter: building belonging closer to home Connect with Amanda Black Bonus for Listeners (Free Travel Quiz): https://thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com/where-should-i-travel-next-quiz/ The Solo Female Traveler Network Website: thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com Instagram: @solofemaletravel TikTok: @sofetravel YouTube: @sofetravel Amanda's TEDx Talk Shared Firsts: Redesigning how we find belonging youtube.com/watch?v=xSaVJH2b5H0 Amanda's Website meetamandablack.com Kindred Community Website: kindredcommunity.co Instagram: @kindred.sd Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

5/15/26 • 26:01

ON ADVENTURE PODCAST  |  EPISODE 70 Episode 70: Saying Yes to the Right Invitations with Colin Stroud                                Episode Description What if your next great adventure is not a destination at all, but a willingness to say yes to the breadcrumbs life keeps dropping in front of you? Colin Stroud is a 26-year-old credit card rewards consultant, founder of Go Somewhere, and one of the fastest growing voices on LinkedIn in the points and miles space. He grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of an OB/GYN and a nurse midwife who met delivering a baby together, and he was on track for a more traditional path until a six-week Spanish immersion trip to Oviedo at 16 cracked the world wide open. From there it was Italy on a $380 flight, a Catholic mission to Poland, an unlikely run at Ave Maria University in south Florida, an early marriage and a baby on the way before he had even graduated, and a first job in life insurance case design that he knew almost immediately was not it. What followed is a story about paying attention. A coworker mentioned the Chase Trifecta. A LinkedIn post about points went viral and got picked up by The Washington Post. A side hustle turned into consulting calls, then into a community for business owners, then into a full-time business helping families and entrepreneurs unlock travel they thought they could not afford. We talk about why early travel rewires you, what it actually takes to leave a steady paycheck, the difference between dopamine and meaning, why family life and entrepreneurship feel like the truest adventures of his life right now, and the surprising decision he and his wife made after almost moving to Hawaii. Colin makes a strong case that the go somewhere life is not always about getting on a plane, and that learning to be rooted where your feet are can be its own kind of expedition.   Episode Highlights 00:00  From cheap flights as a teenager to a full-time business helping people unlock travel 06:00  World Youth Day in Poland, six weeks of Spanish immersion in Oviedo, and catching the travel bug 14:00  Marriage, a baby on the way, and a first job in life insurance that did not fit 18:00  Discovering the Chase Trifecta and stepping into the points world 23:00  The first viral LinkedIn post and a Washington Post quote that changed everything 25:00  Quitting in November 2024 and going full-time on Go Somewhere 30:00  Almost moving to Hawaii, pumping the brakes, and rethinking what travel does for young kids 34:00  Why family life and entrepreneurship are the truest adventures of his life right now 39:00  Measuring yourself: finally finding feedback after years of feeling stuck 47:00  The two ingredients behind a viable internet business: clear writing and consistent humility 55:00 What adventure means now and where to find Colin online   Connect with Colin Stroud LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colinstroud Website: gosomewhere.world Newsletter: The Go Somewhere Newsletter at gosomewhere.world Email: colin@gosomewhere.world   Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self Subscribe to the Patreon for more content! If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it

5/1/26 • 57:01

ON ADVENTURE PODCAST  |  EPISODE 69 Episode 69: No One Was Waiting at the Finish Line with Madison Blagden           Episode Description What would it take to walk 10,000 miles in a single calendar year? Not across a lifetime. Not spread over a decade. One year. Madison Blagden is a long-distance hiker and content creator from Massachusetts who went from a pre-med student with zero backpacking experience to one of the most prolific endurance hikers in the country. After completing the full PCT (2022), the Eastern Continental Trail from Key West to Newfoundland (2023), and the Continental Divide Trail (2024), she did all three Triple Crown trails back to back in 2025, border to border, logging over 10,000 miles in a single calendar year. She documented every step herself through daily YouTube videos, Instagram shorts, and blog posts, all edited on the road. Starting in the Florida Keys in January, she pushed through Hurricane Helene damage on the AT, Sierra snowpack, desert heat, a debilitating hip injury in the White Mountains, and a flash flood that hit her tent in the middle of the night in the desert. The miles are extraordinary. But this conversation goes deeper than the miles. We talk about what happens between the ears when the body wants to quit, the difference between healthy internal ambition and ego-driven achievement, how the most meaningful finish lines are the ones where nobody is waiting for you, what a flash flood teaches you about calm under pressure, the spiritual dimension of pushing past absolute exhaustion, and why you will never be 100 percent ready, and that is not a reason to wait.   Episode Highlights •       00:00  Introduction: Walking 10,000 miles in one calendar year •       02:00  Madison's background: pre-med to PCT with no backpacking experience •       04:00  Van life, COVID, and two years of traveling in a 19-foot RV •       09:00  Comparing the AT, PCT, and CDT: terrain, culture, and difficulty •       14:00  Hurricane Helene's impact on the Appalachian Trail and trail recovery •       19:00  Planning a 10,000-mile year: budget, timing, and keeping it flexible •       24:00  How a 5,600-mile year sparked the idea to go even further •       31:00  Funding the hike through daily content creation on the road •       34:00  Healthy ambition vs. ego-driven achievement •       39:00  Internal motivation: the David Goggins voice and the gentle encouragement •       42:00  37 miles a day for nine weeks: the math behind finishing the CDT before snow •       48:00  Hip injury in the White Mountains and the lesson in letting go •       51:00  Flash flood survival and what it reveals about fight-or-flight •       57:00  Nervous system training and calm under pressure •       01:02:00  Surrendering control: giving it up to the trail and the universe •       01:05:00  Spiritual experiences that emerge only at the edge of physical exhaustion •       01:10:00  Coming off trail softer: how big accomplishments quiet the ego •       01:15:00  Closing encouragement: you will never be 100 percent ready, so go •       01:20:00  The expanding ceiling of human limits and what comes next for Madison   Connect with Madison Blagden Instagram & YouTube: @madisonblagden Website: madisonblagden.com Substack: substack.com/@madisonblagden The Trek: thetrek.co/author/madison-blagden   Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. •       Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms •       Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content •       Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self •       Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self •       If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it

4/17/26 • 87:30

             Season 4 kicks off with a return visit from Robbie Lenfestey, who you may remember from episode 21. Robbie lives on Mandala Springs, a 67-acre retreat center in the mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina, and he was right in the middle of Hurricane Helene. What followed was months of disaster relief, community leadership, and eventually a very long-overdue exhale. In this conversation we get into what it actually looks like to be the calm person in a room full of panic, how a lifetime of pushing physical and mental limits builds a nervous system that can handle almost anything, and what Robbie means when he talks about the real frontier of human experience. We also talk breathwork, Internal Family Systems, flow state, a cryptid spotted multiple times on his property, and a Costa Rica trip that simply could not have been planned. This one goes deep. Episode Timeline [2:43] Hurricane Helene hits Mandala Springs and what the property looked like after [5:00] The Cherokee sweat lodge log jam that accidentally redirected the flood and saved the structures [10:03] On a tractor all night while landslides crashed down the mountain [13:41] Taking charge the morning after and what it means to be the regulated nervous system in the room [24:09] What flow state actually is and how a lifetime of edge experiences builds access to it [27:29] Internal Family Systems - separating from an emotion long enough to actually work through it [35:56] Breathwork, the Wim Hof Method, and the ancient Tibetan roots behind it [41:22] Six months of nonstop disaster relief and the bonfire moment when the grief finally released [47:17] What higher power means to Robbie and why embodied spirituality matters more than head knowledge [54:55] The Wampus cat at Mandala Springs, seen by multiple witnesses Links and Resources Convergence Lifestyle - Robbie's YouTube channel with breathwork videos and Wim Hof Method content Mandala Springs - mandalaSprings.com Mandala Naturals - mandalanaturals.com RobLenfestey.com - one-on-one lifestyle mentorship Amorphos Music - Robbie's music page On Adventure Episode 21 - Robbie's first appearance on the show @RobLenfestey - Robbie's personal Instagram page Robbie Lenfestey - Robbie's personal Facebook page If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you'd rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to our social channels, including our YouTube channel and our Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn pages. It's one of the best ways to support the show and stay connected. Until next time, stay safe and stay On Adventure.

4/3/26 • 79:43

In this final installment of our series on spirituality and adventure, I sit down with Bishop Mark Beckman, the 4th Bishop of the Diocese of Knoxville, to explore what happens when faith is formed not just in quiet rooms, but in wild places. From hiking solo through old-growth forests to walking hundreds of miles on pilgrimage, Bishop Beckman shares how discomfort, silence, and physical effort can open us to something deeper than words. We talk about the moments that push us to the edge of our capacity—storms in the backcountry, long days of walking, fear at high elevations—and how those experiences can shape trust, humility, and presence. This conversation is a reminder that adventure doesn't only take us outward into the world, but inward toward meaning, mystery, and a deeper awareness of God. Episode Timeline [2:22] – Bishop Mark Beckman's calling to ministry and how the outdoors shaped his faith from an early age [6:45] – Discovering God's presence through solitude, silence, and hiking alone in the woods [10:48] – Forming a men's backpacking group and finding unexpected community on the trail [16:05] – Walking the Camino de Santiago and learning trust one step at a time [22:40] – Pushing through fear and physical limits on a 14,000-foot peak in Colorado [30:12] – Retreat, silence, and wilderness as pathways to deeper spiritual awareness [38:05] – Suffering, endurance, and how hardship can deepen us instead of hardening us Links & Resources Appalachian Trail Denali National Park Camino de Santiago If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you'd rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes and additional content — it's one of the best ways to support the show and stay connected. Until next time, stay safe and stay on adventure.

1/23/26 • 41:20

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Hilal Kanaan - neurosurgeon, son of Palestinian immigrants, and someone whose daily work places him in the quiet but profound landscapes of human suffering, endurance, and compassion. While he isn't chasing adventure in the traditional sense, Hilal spends his days navigating a different kind of wilderness: the emotional and spiritual terrain of walking with people through their hardest moments. We explore the kind of toughness that's forged not on trails or mountaintops, but in operating rooms, hospital corridors, and the inner worlds shaped by personal history, faith, and humility. Hilal shares what it was like growing up between cultures, how his parents' story of resilience shaped him, and what strength has come to mean inside a profession where asking for help can be the bravest move of all. This conversation broadened my understanding of what "adventure" can truly mean - and I think it'll do the same for you. ⏱️ Episode Timeline Highlights [00:00] Opening the conversation with Dr. Kanaan and framing a different kind of adventure. [02:00] Growing up in Kalamazoo as the son of Palestinian immigrants. [04:00] The mix of chaos, tragedy, resilience, and optimism woven into Palestinian identity. [07:00] Balancing two cultures and the intentional ways his parents raised their family in America. [11:00] The parental tension between comfort and necessary challenge. [15:00] Identifying "the ghosts in the nursery" - what we inherit, keep, and let go of. [17:00] The book Hilal created for his kids to help them understand God, compassion, and curiosity. [24:00] Faith as a language for gratitude rather than certainty. [29:00] What it feels like to accompany patients through their darkest moments - and how their faith shapes him. [35:00] The humbling lesson of asking for help when a case goes sideways. [44:00] Hilal's message to anyone facing hardship: your feelings are valid…and this is not the rest of your life. 🔗 Links & Resources Why Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner (book referenced) Interview referenced between Stephen Colbert & Ricky Gervais 🙏 Closing Thoughts If this episode resonated with you, it would mean so much if you'd rate, follow, and review the podcast — it truly helps others discover these conversations. And don't forget: we're building more content on YouTube, including full episodes, clips, and behind-the-scenes insights. 👉 Find and subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay connected. Until next time — stay safe, and stay On Adventure.

1/9/26 • 47:18

David Brooks describes life as a journey up two mountains. The first mountain is about achievement—building a career, proving yourself, chasing success. The second mountain begins when the first no longer satisfies, and you're called into a deeper life of meaning, surrender, and service. This episode lives squarely on that second mountain. This conversation is the second installment in our series exploring where spirituality and adventure overlap, and it's an honest look at what happens when ambition gives way to awakening. I sat down with Scott Sauls to talk about burnout, identity, and the courage it takes to walk away from what once defined you. We explore why suffering often becomes the doorway to spiritual depth, how achievement can quietly turn into addiction, and why community—not independence—is the missing ingredient in most meaningful adventures. If you've ever felt successful on paper but empty underneath—or sensed a pull toward something more without knowing how to answer it—this conversation will meet you right where you are. Timeline Highlights [2:45] – Why this conversation fits into the spirituality-and-adventure series [7:30] – Scott's leadership journey and the hidden cost of achievement [14:10] – When productivity becomes identity—and why it eventually breaks us [22:40] – Why suffering often precedes clarity, healing, and spiritual growth [31:55] – Redefining adventure beyond the outdoors [41:20] – The role of community in recovery and transformation [52:10] – Curiosity, humility, and letting go of control Key Themes & Topics Midlife transition Spirituality and adventure Burnout, recovery, and identity Faith, suffering, and meaning Leadership and emotional health Community vs isolation Risk, uncertainty, and growth Links & Resources Scott Sauls – leadership coaching and writing The Second Mountain by David Brooks From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks Closing If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might need this conversation. These stories grow through community—and I'm grateful you're part of it. Thanks for listening. I'll see you on the adventure.

12/31/25 • 56:02

In today's episode—the first in a brand-new series exploring the deeper meaning behind our outdoor experiences—I sit down with my longtime friend, pastor, everyday explorer, and deep thinker, Reed Dunn, for one of the most meaningful conversations I've had on this podcast. This first installment leans less on adrenaline and more on the why—why we're drawn to the outdoors, why hardship shapes us, and why so many of us pursue experiences that push us into awe, wonder, and transcendence. Reed and I dig into the spiritual side of adventure—what it means to connect with something beyond ourselves, whether you call that God or a higher power. We unpack the way wilderness confronts our limits, how beauty can shake us awake, and why disciplines of "no" might be more important today than ever. And of course, we talk about Reed's years of backpacking, his favorite place in the world, and the moments that have stayed with him long after the trip ended. ⏱️ Timeline Summary Here are the top moments from the episode: [00:16:00] – Kicking off the conversation: why I wanted Reed on the show and how his story fits into "the meaning side" of adventure. [00:26:00] – Reed's early backpacking years—Colorado, Arkansas, the Buffalo River Trail, and how those experiences shaped him. [00:35:00] – The memory of his favorite place on earth: a glacial lake, seven waterfalls, and the power of remembering without a camera. [00:36:00] – A deep dive into spirituality: what it means to connect with transcendence, how nature becomes a pathway, and why anyone—regardless of belief—can access it. [00:46:00] – Religion vs. spirituality: Reed breaks down the difference between learning about God and meeting God—and why both matter. [01:13:00] – Exploring hardship, asceticism, and the spiritual importance of limitation. Why "telling yourself no" opens doors to meaning. [01:22:00] – The connection between ancient spiritual practices, desert monks, and modern adventurers who push themselves to the edge in search of something more. 🔗 Links & Resources Reed's book, When You Don't Have Words: Praying the Psalms — available wherever you buy books Reed Dunn on social media:  Instagram LinkedIn Locations discussed: Colorado trail systems, Buffalo River Trail (AR), Wind River Range (WY), Appalachian Trail (ME/NH section) Find us on our new On Adventure Podcast YouTube channel where you can see the full interviews.  Also give us a like and a review while you're at it! 🙌 Closing Remark If this conversation stirred something in you, inspired you, or made you think differently about why we chase adventure in the first place, I'd love for you to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. It helps more everyday explorers find these stories—and it keeps great conversations like this one coming. Thanks for listening, and keep living your adventure on purpose.

12/15/25 • 63:34

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with ultra-endurance athlete Lisa Decker, whose story is a powerful blend of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of hard things. Lisa didn't come from a traditional running background—yet she discovered the world of ultra running through community, curiosity, and a willingness to push herself beyond her comfort zone. What followed is a decade-long journey that includes a 120-pound weight-loss transformation, countless ultras, and the life-changing experience of completing the legendary Vol State 500K across Tennessee. We dive deep into what motivates someone to walk 314 miles in the July heat, how finding the right community can unlock new levels of confidence, and why endurance challenges often lead to profound personal growth. This episode is packed with insight about mental toughness, identity shifts, overcoming self-doubt, and discovering what you're really capable of when you take that first step—literally. If you're searching for inspiration, endurance storytelling, personal transformation, or insights about long-distance running and mindset, this episode delivers. ⏱️ Timeline Highlights [2:15] – Lisa's early life in California, her outdoors-focused upbringing, and how nature shaped her love of adventure. [6:40] – Discovering the trail and ultra running community through Team RWB and why it instantly felt like "home." [14:30] – How she balances 10-hour pharmacy shifts with ultra training, and why walking ultras became her key to success. [17:45] – The unexpected moment on the Vol State ferry that led to forming a five-person pack and transforming the entire race experience. [23:10] – Kind strangers, roadside hospitality, skunk encounters, and what surprised her most during the 500K journey run. [28:40] – Doing ultras while overweight, finishing last, and why showing up anyway built the foundation for her transformation. [36:50] – The mental battle of "head trash," the power of community support, and why being honest about struggles matters. [49:00] – Future adventure goals, including walking the Caminos in Europe and exploring the world on foot. [58:30] – How endurance sports shifted her personal identity, career goals, and even her vision for where she wants to live next. 🔗 Links & Resources Featured Organizations & Topics Team RWB (Red, White & Blue) – Veterans & civilians building connection through fitness Vol State 500K Ultra Race Info – Search "Vol State 500K" on UltraSignup Snowdrop Foundation – Pediatric cancer support & scholarships 💬 Final Thoughts If this conversation inspired you or helped you rethink what's possible for your own life, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Every bit of support helps new listeners discover these stories—and it keeps the adventure going. And don't forget: 👉 Subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes

11/28/25 • 53:22

What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start chasing wild, audacious goals? That's exactly what we unpack in this powerhouse episode with Mike Wardian—elite endurance athlete, record-setting runner, and all-around inspiration. From running across the United States to setting a fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail for his age group, Mike shares the mindset behind tackling the unimaginable. But this conversation goes beyond races and records. Mike opens up about what fuels his drive, how he builds resilience through repetition, and how he balances his career, family, and love for adventure. Whether you're prepping for your first 10K or dreaming of rowing solo across the Atlantic (yep, that's on his calendar too), there's something here for everyone chasing big goals. 🔥 What You'll Learn How Mike plans his insane endurance calendar using a Post-it Note system The real story behind his Appalachian Trail record attempt — injuries, storms, and mental toughness Why he's trading trails for water in 2027: rowing across the Atlantic solo How to push through when motivation runs dry — the power of micro-goals Mike's approach to family, business, and adventure life balance What he's learned about humanity and resilience from running thousands of miles 🏆 Featured Moments [1:04] – Mike's "goal list" strategy for setting and sticking to ambitious challenges [4:58] – What is the Taco Bell 50K and the Full Ham Triathlon? (Hint: They're tougher than they sound) [6:55] – Why Mike's next adventure is rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean [9:02] – The difference between saying yes to challenges and actively seeking them out [15:45] – Why the Appalachian Trail holds a special place in Mike's heart [23:10] – Trail injuries, vegan nutrition, and how Mike fueled himself with 10,000 calories a day [32:45] – How Mike balances a full-time career and family life while pursuing ultra-endurance feats [39:01] – The truth about running across America—traffic, kindness, loneliness, and everything in between [45:40] – Why 100 burpees a day became a key part of Mike's training routine 🧠 Listener Takeaways Your biggest goals are within reach if you break them into daily reps You don't need to quit your job to live an adventurous life Embrace the beginner's mindset — it's where the magic starts There's no substitute for consistency and curiosity "Run toward the thing you're afraid of — it's probably where the growth is." 📌 Links & Resources Follow Mike Wardian on Instagram: @mikewardian Learn more about Mike's gear and sponsors: Teva, Bakline Check out upcoming grassroots races like the Taco Bell 50K via Mike's socials 👏 Connect with Us Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more conversations just like this. You can find us on YouTube by searching On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self — and don't forget to hit the bell so you never miss a new drop. If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more everyday adventurers like you. And hey—share it with a friend who's chasing their own wild goals.

11/14/25 • 49:31

Enduring the Impossible with Vincent Antunez This episode is a deep dive into the mind and mission of Vincent Antunez, DSc, PA-C - a retired U.S. Army Major, ultra endurance athlete, and founder of Trail Toes. From grueling military deployments to multi-day ultramarathons across the globe, Vincent shares how pain, persistence, and preparation have shaped every step of his journey. We talk about what it takes to push beyond the limits of your body - and more importantly, your mind. Vincent shares raw, powerful stories of suffering and success on the course, the lessons that endurance sports teach about humility and resilience, and the gear and mindset strategies that keep him (and his feet) moving forward. This one is packed with wisdom from the front lines - of both battlefields and ultramarathons. 🎧 Don't forget - we're now on YouTube! Be sure to subscribe to the channel and hit that bell so you never miss an episode. And of course, follow the show wherever you get your podcasts. ⏱️ Episode Timeline: [1:12] - How Vincent met ultrarunning legend Lisa Smith-Batchen — and helped her complete her historic Badwater Quad [3:44] - A military career across decades and continents [6:57] - How a post-midnight beer run in Germany accidentally became his first marathon [11:42] - Why he keeps showing up, even without formal training [13:58] - The 3 reasons people drop out of ultras (and how to beat them) [20:31] - Innovative tips for staying cool and blister-free on brutal courses [24:49] - Trail Toes and how Vincent created it in Afghanistan [38:11] - The psychology of endurance: crews, quitting, and the right kind of pressure [52:05] - Why Vincent keeps coming back to these events — and what they continue to teach him 🔗 Links & Resources: Trail Toes Foot & Body Care Vol State 500K Band of Runners – a trail running camp for veterans and first responders If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast — and share it with a friend who's always pushing their limits. Every download helps more everyday explorers find their way forward.

11/2/25 • 60:19

How do you embrace fear and failure to build a multi million dollar business, shred heavy metal guitar solos and break land speed records in a custom built car? In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Tom Kubiniec—entrepreneur, former heavy metal guitarist, and the so-called "gun storage guru." From his days tearing up the music scene to building a global business in military weapon storage, Tom's journey is one wild ride. We dive deep into what it means to stake a claim in life before you've "earned it," why failure should be embraced (and quickly), and how creativity fuels not just business, but bold living. A killer insight from Tom: "You don't know where you're going to land until you jump. As you're falling, you will find a place to land.  If you're not happy with that one, jump again."  We also explore his adrenaline-pumping pursuits: restoring rare cars, racing across the Utah salt flats, and finding peace in silence while bow hunting. This episode is about pushing limits, whether in the boardroom, behind a guitar, or out in the wild. If you're looking for inspiration to go all-in on your ideas or just want a reminder of how short life is, this one hits home. Episode Highlights: [1:12] - Tom's journey from unknown rock guitarist to global leader in military gun storage [6:05] - The pivotal moment of "claiming" expertise before it was proven—and why it worked [13:25] - How public speaking and guitar technique both benefit from slow, intentional practice [17:00] - Fail fast: Why Tom says failure is not the enemy but the pathway to innovation [25:55] - The birth of a game-changing locking system after a live simulation revealed a major flaw [33:02] - Creating personas in business and why it's not about being fake—it's about solving problems [39:45] - Breaking a land speed record with a 750cc custom car: the build, the danger, the payoff [44:00] - Why silence in the woods and watching a forest wake up is Tom's ultimate reset [54:10] - Final reflections on living fully, embracing fear, and making the most of the one life we get Links & Resources: SecureIt Tactical Tom's YouTube Guitar Performance (Layla in DADGAD) Bonneville Speed Week Info Closing Remarks: If this conversation with Tom fired you up to take bold steps in your own adventure, make sure to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you enjoyed this one, rate, review, and share it with a friend who's ready to make their move. Also, don't forget to check out the full video episode and more on our On Adventure YouTube page and hit that Subscribe button. Thanks for tuning in!

10/17/25 • 70:46

What does greatness look like? Is it talent, time, or something deeper? In this episode, I sit down with endurance legend and master coach Lisa Smith-Batchen to explore what greatness really means - and how it evolves as we do. With over four decades of coaching and ultra-running behind her, Lisa shares a wisdom-packed perspective on pushing limits, aging with intention, and chasing big dreams, no matter where you're starting. Lisa is the first American to win the grueling Marathon des Sables and the first woman to have completed the Badwater Quad - covering 584 miles across Death Valley! She's run across multiple states for charity, completed a 50-mile ultra in every state, and raised over $1 million for orphanages and clean water projects. But what's just as remarkable is how grounded, present, and purpose-driven she remains through it all. We dig into the transformative power of endurance sports—not just physically, but mentally and spiritually. Lisa opens up about what keeps her coming back to extreme challenges, the emotional shifts that come with aging as an athlete, and how learning to put yourself first might just be the most radical move of all. Whether you're training for your first 5K or simply trying to show up fully in life, this one's for you. 🕓 Timeline Highlights [3:55] – Lisa's 20-year coaching journey with Bob Becker and the bond beyond the miles [6:45] – Getting cut from the team—and how it shaped her coaching philosophy [9:25] – Breaking records and barriers: Badwater Quad, 50 ultras in 50 states, and running for causes [12:15] – The path from average to good to great: Lisa's simple but powerful growth model [17:49] – Embracing evolution: letting go of who you were to step into who you're becoming [29:01] – A moment at mile 132 that changed Bob Becker's mindset—and maybe yours too [34:00] – Why making time for yourself isn't selfish—it's essential [41:15] – What keeps Lisa coming back to the edge of endurance: joy, clarity, and spiritual connection [57:22] – Guiding a blind and deaf athlete through 140 miles—Lisa's next adventure 🔗 Links & Resources Dreamchasers Coaching – Lisa's personalized coaching platform Route 6640 Ultra – The 140-mile race Lisa will be guiding in November Badwater 135 – The world's toughest foot race 💬 Final Words This episode offers far more than endurance talk—it's a blueprint for living with purpose, courage, and connection. If it struck a chord with you, be sure to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen. And don't forget - head to our YouTube page to subscribe and watch the full conversation. We've got more powerful stories coming your way, so stay tuned and stay on adventure.

10/3/25 • 61:48

In this captivating episode of On Adventure, I sit down with the legendary Bob Becker - ultramarathoner, race director, and age-defying adventurer - to unpack his incredible journey from late-blooming runner to becoming the oldest finisher of the Badwater 135, one of the world's toughest ultramarathons. At 80 years old, Bob proves that it's never too late to rewrite your story, conquer deserts, and inspire generations. Whether you're an aspiring endurance athlete, race organizer, or simply someone looking for motivation to stay active, this episode delivers. 🕓 Timestamps & Topics Covered [00:04:00] Introduction – Welcoming Bob Becker and setting the stage. [00:06:00] Late Bloomer in Running – Bob started serious running at 57! [00:07:30] First Ultra: Marathon des Sables – 150-mile Sahara race to celebrate turning 60. [00:09:00] Why Ultras? – The deep camaraderie and the life-changing community. [00:13:00] Training Without Mountains – How Bob trains for elevation in flat Florida. [00:18:30] From Running to Race Directing – Launching the iconic Keys 100 and Daytona 100 races. [00:23:00] Life After Real Estate – How Bob turned adversity during the financial crisis into purpose. [00:27:00] Jungle Racing in the Everglades – Creating and running a now-legendary trail race. [00:34:00] Enduring Support – His wife's unique but wholehearted support. [00:38:00] Intergenerational Adventure – Racing with his granddaughter. [00:39:30] Movement as Medicine – Encouraging older adults to "just start moving." [00:40:00] Nutrition & Heat Strategy – Vegan lifestyle and fueling for the long haul. [00:47:00] Inside Badwater 135 – The heat, the altitude, the brutal beauty. [00:54:00] History in the Making – Becoming the oldest finisher in Badwater history. [01:00:00] Mental Grit – Mantras, bear crawls, and mindset hacks. [01:05:00] Lessons from the Trail – What Bob's learned from every finish line. 🏆 Key Takeaways 🧠 Age is not a limitation – Bob didn't start running seriously until his late 50s. 🌱 Vegan athlete – Nutrition was key to training, racing, and recovery. 🥵 Badwater veteran – 6x Badwater runner; oldest finisher at age 80. 🛠️ Creative training methods – Pulling tires across bridges to simulate hills. 💪 Mental strength over miles – Bear crawled the last mile of Badwater in 2022. 🧡 Inspiring generations – Encourages others, especially seniors, to stay active. ✨ Notable Quotes "If someone else can do it, why can't I?" – Bob Becker "The finish line is glorious. It's a bragging right you carry forever." "You're never too old to start moving. Start walking, gardening - just move." 🔗 Connect with Bob Becker Keys 100 Ultramarathon Daytona 100 Ultramarathon Bob's Feature on Outside Magazine 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations with adventurers, endurance athletes, and game-changers just like Bob Becker. 👉 Subscribe to the On Adventure Podcast on your favorite platform to stay updated with every new episode. 📺 Want to see the stories come to life? Head over to our YouTube channel for full interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and bonus content you won't hear on the audio feed. 🔥 Hit that subscribe button, leave us a review, and join our growing community of adventurers!

9/19/25 • 70:11

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Ken Posner—ultrarunner, author, former Army Ranger, and corporate financial analyst—to explore the transformative power of pushing physical and mental boundaries. Ken shares stories from his extraordinary journey completing the "grid": summiting all 35 high peaks of New York's Catskills in every month of the year. Along the way, he stripped away technology, embraced barefoot running, and found a deeper connection with nature and himself. This episode isn't just about extreme endurance. It's about rediscovering who we are when the noise of the modern world fades away. We unpack how doing hard things in nature can bring clarity, strength, and a more balanced life. Whether you're curious about barefoot hiking, intrigued by minimalist living, or seeking inspiration to shake up your own routine, Ken's story will move you. Timeline Summary: [2:22] - Ken's shift from corporate life to ultra endurance running in his late 30s [4:00] - Why he started running barefoot and what kept him going [7:45] - The joy, mindfulness, and sensation of barefoot movement [10:10] - Balancing high-tech corporate work with minimalist, analog outdoor living [19:00] - The metaphor of "signal vs. noise" and how nature helps us tune in [28:30] - Pain vs. suffering: building resilience through chosen challenges [35:00] - The Badwater Double: a 292-mile journey through Death Valley and back [47:30] - How the mountains called him at age 50 and led to chasing the grid [54:00] - The spiritual and transformative lessons learned through mountain pilgrimages Links & Resources: Ken's website: www.barefootken.com Ken Posner's book: Chasing the Grid (available Sept 23 on Amazon) Born to Run by Christopher McDougall Antifragile by Nassim Taleb Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind by Julian Jaynes Closing Remark: Please check out Ken's website and support him by purchasing his new book!  If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend who could use a little adventure in their life. Be sure to follow, rate, and leave a review of the podcast and well as our new YouTube channel—it helps us reach more everyday explorers just like you. Thanks for tuning in!

9/5/25 • 74:19

In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Charles Infurna—a coach, academic, and athlete—who shares a powerful story about unlocking human potential. From the legacy of his immigrant family to his own journey through athletics and coaching, Charles brings a deep, authentic perspective on what it really takes to push past limits and perform at the highest level. We talk about the importance of belief, the trust that fuels great coach-athlete relationships, and how to balance ambition with healthy detachment. Whether you're chasing Olympic dreams, striving for personal growth, or trying to show up better for your kids, Charles' reflections offer real wisdom for anyone walking their own adventure. Timeline Summary [1:22] - The immigrant roots that shaped Charles' drive and work ethic [5:00] - Early lessons from watching his parents work tirelessly for the American dream [7:50] - The college years: How track and field became the anchor that kept him moving forward [10:12] - Stepping into coaching: From reluctant start to life-changing purpose [16:00] - Navigating identity, ego, and love for the sport in his first years as a coach [19:45] - Parenting and coaching: What he's learned about motivation, belief, and letting go [22:55] - The most important thing a coach can do: Be a "light giver" and guide belief [27:10] - Stories of grit, growth, and belief from standout athlete Lewis and others [35:00] - Research insights: What Olympic coaches do differently to create trust and performance [45:00] - Inside "The Throwing Circle": Charles' upcoming book and how it blends story with science Links & Resources Follow Dr. Charles Infurna Instagram & Twitter: @charlesinfurna LinkedIn: Charles Infurna Dr. Infurna's Upcoming Book: The Throwing Circle Launching Summer 2025 – Available soon on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, and Costco. Josh's Financial Planning Resources Website: www.ridgelinewealthadvisors.com Newsletter: The Money Trail Guide – Sign up on the site! Enjoyed This Episode? If you found this conversation valuable, don't forget to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast! Your support helps us keep bringing inspiring stories and hard-won insights from everyday explorers, adventurers, and achievers. 👉 Also, be sure to find and follow our brand-new YouTube channel where you can watch full episodes and more from the On Adventure Podcast. Stay safe. Stay curious. Stay on the adventure.

8/22/25 • 49:50

What does it really mean to suffer with purpose? In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with conservationist and ultra-endurance athlete Tom Hicks – a man whose journey is as layered as the landscapes he climbs. From leading anti-poaching efforts across Africa and Asia with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation to tackling brutal challenges like Ironman races and high-altitude expeditions, Tom's life is defined by intentional hardship, deep introspection, and relentless forward motion. We dive into the heart of resilience, why discomfort can be transformative, and how a former rugby coach found meaning in the mountains. Tom also shares his connection with previous On Adventure guest Holly Budge and his plans to lead a new team to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Whether you're an aspiring adventurer, a mindset junkie, or someone wrestling with self-doubt, this episode delivers a powerful reminder: growth is never linear, and purpose is often found in the pain. Episode Highlights: [3:00] – Fighting global wildlife crime: Tom's work with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation [8:00] – The brutal truth about poaching, organized crime, and the risks of field conservation [12:00] – From being told he'd never succeed to becoming a conservation leader [18:00] – Mentoring the next generation: the importance of presence and vulnerability [24:00] – The "circuit breaker" mindset tool to quiet negative inner voices [29:00] – What drives us to endure suffering in pursuit of meaning [38:00] – A life-or-death lesson on Lenin Peak – and why good decision-making matters [45:00] – Remembering Dixie Dansercoer and how it reshaped Tom's risk tolerance [54:00] – Emotional regulation in chaos: the power of calm leadership [59:00] – Balancing ambition, burnout, and building a team for Kilimanjaro Links & Resources: David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Learn more about snow leopard conservation Holly Budge's Episode 52 Osprey Packs In memory of polar explorer Dixie Dansercoer Connect with Tom: Have questions about conservation, endurance training, or joining the upcoming Kilimanjaro team? Reach out to Tom directly on LinkedIn or Instagram – he's always happy to connect with fellow adventurers and curious minds. Enjoyed this episode? If Tom's story sparked something in you, take a second to rate, follow, and review On Adventure. And be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and inspiration from the trail. Plus – don't miss new episode drops and bonus video content on our brand-new YouTube channel. Hit subscribe and join us for the next great adventure.

8/8/25 • 80:43

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Brian Warren—an elite mountain guide whose life has been defined by risk, reinvention, and a deep connection to the mountains. From thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail just days after high school to guiding in the Tetons, Himalaya, and beyond, Brian's journey is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and embracing the unknown. We explore how Brian transitioned from living out of a backpack to leading high-stakes expeditions around the globe—and eventually, to navigating a whole new adventure: fatherhood and a career pivot into financial services. This conversation dives deep into themes of identity, confidence vs. competence, imposter syndrome, and the unique lessons that come from suffering in comfort. If you've ever wondered what it's like to reinvent yourself while carrying forward everything hard-earned from past chapters, this episode is for you. Timeline of Highlights [2:22] – Launching into adventure: Brian's decision to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail at 18. [10:45] – Discovering leadership on the trail and earning the nickname "Merlin." [18:20] – Transitioning from Knowles courses to guiding in Jackson Hole and the Tetons. [27:05] – Learning to ski on "toy skis" and the path to heli-ski guiding. [37:50] – Companionship as the secret ingredient to adventure: why relationships matter in the mountains. [44:00] – "Suffer in comfort": Brian's mantra for staying calm in high-stakes situations. [1:04:15] – Stories from the edge: avalanches, crevasse falls, and helicopter crashes. [1:10:30] – Reinventing life beyond the mountains: from guiding to financial planning. Links & Resources Sign up for The Money Trail Guide newsletter for insights on funding your own adventures. NOLS Outdoor Leadership School Jackson Hole Mountain Guides Closing If this episode inspired you, please rate, review, and share the podcast. You can also find our new YouTube page!  It's the best way to help more adventurers like you find these conversations. And don't forget to follow so you don't miss the next episode.

7/25/25 • 79:25

What drives someone to leave behind comfort and pursue something deeply meaningful? In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Tanner Critz - a martial artist, Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, and founder of Unity Martial Arts in Little Rock. This conversation isn't just about hiking 2,200 miles or building a successful dojo. It's about identity, purpose, and the courage it takes to follow your own path - especially when it's steep and uncertain. Tanner opens up about his pivotal adventures: hiking the AT alone with a hidden bleeding ulcer, turning a quiet martial arts passion into a thriving community, and facing a near-death COVID experience that shook his world. We explore what it means to live with intention, take risks that matter, and find a sense of home in both place and people. Arthur Brooks says that to live a happy, meaningful life, we all have to answer two questions...Why am I here, and What am I willing to die for?  If you've ever asked yourself either of these questions - this episode is for you. 🕒 Episode Timeline [3:42] - How a year of reflection led Tanner to hike the Appalachian Trail [8:15] - Experiencing deep physical pain—and choosing not to quit [14:29] - The unexpected transition from graphic design to martial arts [20:51] - Starting Unity Martial Arts and building community through connection [31:03] - The philosophy of self-defense and teaching through empathy [39:30] - Surviving COVID: A near-death experience and its lasting impact [46:10] - Finding peace, purpose, and the value of rest [52:58] - Advice for anyone standing at the edge of a big life decision 🔗 Links & Resources Unity Martial Arts, Little Rock The Appalachian Trail Conservancy Books Mentioned: End to Ending: An Appalachian Thru Hiker's Story by Tanner Critz Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior by Chögyam Trungpa If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to follow, rate, and review the podcast. Also check out our new YouTube page and be sure to subcribe there.  And don't forget to share it with someone who might be standing at the edge of their own next big step. See you next time, adventurers.

7/11/25 • 91:52

In this special episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with the unstoppable Holly Budge—an adventurer, conservationist, and the first woman to skydive over Mount Everest. With World Female Ranger Week in full swing, this conversation couldn't be more timely. You can find out more about what these incredibly brave female rangers do here and why they are being celebrated this week.  Holly opens up about transforming fear into fuel, climbing the world's highest peak solo, and how her bold expeditions became a platform for championing female wildlife rangers. We explore her work with How Many Elephants and the founding of World Female Ranger Week, diving into the challenges and triumphs of the women on the front lines of conservation. Whether you're an adventure junkie, a purpose-driven leader, or someone looking for that next spark of inspiration, this episode delivers the goods. Timeline Summary: [2:15] - How a single conversation launched Holly's journey to skydive Everest [6:47] - What it's like to freefall at 29,500 feet over the Himalayas [12:22] - Training your mindset for mental toughness and high-altitude endurance [17:31] - The origin story of How Many Elephants and connecting passion with purpose [21:18] - Launching World Female Ranger Week and elevating unheard voices [27:05] - Grit, resilience, and the power of women protecting the wild [35:40] - What Holly's adventures have taught her about life and leadership Links & Resources: Holly Budge: hollybudge.com World Female Ranger Week: worldfemalerangerweek.org How Many Elephants: howmanyelephants.org Follow Holly on Instagram: @hollybudge 🎧 Don't Miss a Beat! If you loved this episode, make sure to follow the show on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an adventure. And we've just launched our brand new YouTube channel where you can catch full episodes and exclusive behind-the-scenes content—subscribe now and join us visually! 🎙️ Follow | ❤️ Rate | 💬 Review | 📤 Share — your support means the world.

6/27/25 • 96:12

In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Jess Hanson—a certified mental performance consultant, ultra runner, and coach—to explore what it takes to build a resilient mindset for both high-performance athletes and everyday adventurers. Jess shares her journey from playing lacrosse in college to coaching athletes across sports like skiing, mountain biking, and ultra running. We dive deep into how the mental game shapes athletic success, and how pushing your physical and emotional limits can unlock deeper purpose, confidence, and grit. If you've ever faced the "dark moments" in endurance sports or wondered how to mentally prepare for big goals, this conversation is for you. We talk about identity, risk, motivation, and what it really takes to show up when things get hard. Plus, Jess gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her own ultra journey - yes, even the gritty details of 100K races, helicopter skiing, and rim-to-rim-to-rim Grand Canyon adventures. ⏱️ Timeline Summary [1:20] - From lacrosse to ultra running: Jess shares her athletic evolution [4:45] - Why mental performance matters—and how it's different from traditional coaching [11:40] - Facing fear in the backcountry and building confidence in uncertain moments [16:50] - Running her first 50-miler with just two months of training (!) [21:55] - Mental spirals and self-talk strategies during her 100K trail race [33:10] - Why she loves working with high school athletes and how she helps them reshape their relationship with sport [45:10] - What drives Jess to keep pushing her limits in running, skiing, and life 🔗 Links & Resources Jess Hanson's Coaching: https://cognelite.net Association for Applied Sport Psychology: https://appliedsportpsych.org Find a CMPC-certified consultant: AASP Directory Instagram: @cognelite 💬 Closing Thoughts If this episode gave you fuel to keep chasing your goals - or gave you tools for when the trail gets tough - please rate, follow, and share On Adventure. Also find us on our new YouTube page and click to subscribe!  And if you haven't yet, go back and check out Episode 36 with Jess's dad, Scott Hanson, for more inspiring stories from the trail.

6/13/25 • 60:16

In this heartfelt episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with a younger Everyday Explorer, my son Hudson, for a conversation that redefines what adventure truly means. While we often explore tales of physical challenge and bold travel, this episode takes us on an inward journey—a story of persistence, identity, and the courage to live fully despite daily challenges. Hudson lives with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic condition, and he brings us into his world with sincerity, wisdom, and humor. We talk about what it's like to grow up with PWS, the unique joys and struggles that come with it, and how it's shaped Hudson's perspective on life. He shares how adventure isn't just found on mountaintops or across oceans—it's in the relationships we build, the obstacles we face, and the love we share. From exploring WWII history in Europe to dreaming about the Great Wall of China, Hudson reminds us that the truest adventures are often the ones that take place in our own hearts and homes. This episode is not just a story of difference—it's a story of belonging, resilience, and the extraordinary power of being seen and included. ⏱️ Timeline Summary [0:00] – Meet Hudson Self and an introduction to Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month [1:00] – Hudson's heartfelt presentation on living with PWS [3:00] – Sharing his passions and personal joys beyond the diagnosis [5:00] – The importance of inclusion and being treated like everyone else [7:00] – Discussing the constant challenge of hunger with PWS [9:00] – How PWS brought meaningful relationships and mentors into Hudson's life [10:00] – Visiting historical sites in Europe and the emotional impact of Normandy [12:00] – Dreaming of a future adventure to the Great Wall of China [13:00] – Favorite memories from a Jurassic-themed trip to Hawaii 🔗 Links & Resources Learn more about Prader-Willi Syndrome Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month (May) 🎧 Closing Thoughts This episode is a powerful reminder that adventure comes in many forms. If Hudson's story moved you, inspired you, or made you think a little differently, please consider rating, following, and sharing the podcast from our YouTube (this is brand new!), Instagram and Facebook pages (this is new too!). And don't forget to leave a review—we'd love to hear from you.

5/30/25 • 16:55

Hey friends — Josh here. In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Luis Rivera, whose story is one of raw grit, reinvention, and the kind of adventure that doesn't just test your body, but transforms your mind. From a childhood on a remote island off Puerto Rico to stepping into the unknown of upstate New York at age 12, Luis shares what it really means to navigate cultural shifts, language barriers, and personal setbacks. What begins as a sports story quickly turns into a full-on life odyssey — from a football injury that threatened his future, to an unexpected path in collegiate track and field, to ultimately becoming a national champion and training alongside Olympic athletes. Luis's journey is a powerful reminder that the hardest parts of the road are often the ones that reveal who we are. If you've ever faced a season of uncertainty or questioned your direction, this conversation offers both perspective and fuel for your own adventure forward. ⏱️ Timeline Highlights [4:02] – From Puerto Rico to Rochester: The culture shock of middle school in America [7:58] – How sports became Luis's universal language of belonging [13:45] – Earning the nickname "Mean Machine" and learning the power of hard work [20:55] – The injury that ended his football dreams — and started something unexpected [24:10] – A fateful meeting with a track coach and the start of a new athletic journey [38:00] – Becoming a national champion and rewriting what success looks like [47:00] – Life after elite athletics and applying the athlete's mindset to real life [56:22] – Luis's powerful reframing of failure and why the "middle ground" matters most 🔗 Links & Resources Follow Luis Rivera Instagram: @luis4real LinkedIn: Luis Rivera, MBA Learn more about Nazareth University Track & Field: nazathletics.com Want to hear more episodes like this? Subscribe to On Adventure wherever you listen to podcasts. 🙌 Final Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, take a moment to rate, follow, and review the show — it's one of the best ways to help more people discover these stories. And if Luis's journey inspired you, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that the adventure isn't just about the destination — it's about how we grow through the climb.

5/16/25 • 56:07

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with singer-songwriter and creative visionary Thad Cockrell for a conversation that took an unexpected but deeply inspiring turn. Thad opens up about his journey from wrestling mats and seminary halls to Nashville stages and international acclaim—all while forging a career based on creativity, authenticity, and saying a bold "yes" to uncertainty. We explore what it means to create from love rather than fear, and how rebellion, doubt, and wonder can be sacred tools on the creative path. From Thad's bold decision to sell his album for $100 directly to fans, to the moment Jimmy Fallon discovered his song in a hardware store, this conversation will challenge the way you think about success, security, and what it means to truly create without an agenda. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or just someone seeking a more intentional life, this episode is packed with insight and soul. ⏱️ Timeline Summary: [1:45] - Thad on how creativity is a daily act of defeating doubt [4:00] - Why you can't conform and create at the same time [9:55] - The childhood moment that sparked Thad's unexpected path toward music [14:20] - Discovering Neil Young and realizing, "This is what I'm supposed to do" [24:30] - Moving to Nashville and the wild story of unexpected community support [33:50] - Thad's transformative shift from insecurity to creating from security [44:00] - How he released his latest album for $100 and made more than 13 years on Spotify [49:50] - What it means to create from the present moment with no need for external validation [56:00] - Thad's big dream: building a new music economy and going platinum without streaming 🔗 Links & Resources: Thad Cockrell's album "The Kid" — Available exclusively via his site Learn more about Thad's journey and upcoming projects at thadcockrell.com Past guest: Thom Asta's episode  🙌 Enjoyed This Episode? If this conversation sparked something in you, I'd love for you to leave a review, share the episode, or hit that follow button. Your support means the world and helps more people find the podcast. Thanks for being part of the adventure!

5/2/25 • 66:12

Some stories grab you right from the first sentence—and this one, with Patrick Serfass, took me on a ride I didn't want to end. Patrick isn't just a triathlete, or a renewable energy leader, or a dad raising two adventurous boys. He's a guy who once said yes to sailing a 26-foot boat with no refrigeration all the way to South America. A guy who climbed the Grand Teton without any prior climbing experience. But what really makes his story stick with you is what happened when all of that—his athletic identity, his mobility, his very sense of self—got upended in a moment. In this episode, we talk about what it means to suffer well, how ego can drive growth, and why the most powerful moments in life often come through challenge. We talk about trust, adventure, the loneliness of injury, and the healing that comes when you're surrounded by people who say, "I've got you." If you've ever been forced to let go of something you thought defined you—this one's for you. ⏱️ Timestamps [1:12] – Patrick introduces his family and his lifelong pull toward movement and travel [5:55] – A spontaneous dinner conversation leads to a year-long sailing adventure [12:01] – Why shared suffering forges deeper connection than comfort ever could [17:40] – Losing the ability to run, and finding new purpose beyond the podium [30:17] – What happens when your body becomes the limiting factor—and you say yes anyway [35:12] – Climbing Grand Teton without climbing experience: fear, faith, and the magic of the mountains [47:40] – The unexpected rewards of pushing through what scares us [56:00] – What it really means to "stay in shape for the next adventure"—and why it's not just physical 🔗 Links & Resources American Biogas Council: americanbiogascouncil.org Voyage of the Mimi (PBS series): IMDb Grand Teton National Park: NPS Site C&O Canal + GAP Trail info: gaptrail.org If you've ever had to redefine who you are, if you've ever stood at the edge of something scary and whispered "yes," I hope this episode reminds you: you're not alone. And hey—if it did speak to you, don't forget to share the love. Follow, rate, and leave a review to help On Adventure reach more listeners who need these stories just as much as we do.

4/18/25 • 71:34

In this fun episode, Josh sits down with John Norwood, a commercial banker from Raleigh, North Carolina, whose second identity is that of a passionate adventurer. While John's day job revolves around numbers and negotiations, his soul is stirred by trails, waterfalls, and sunfish sails. Rather than jetting off to exotic lands, John finds endless wonder in his own backyard—the mountains, lakes, and coastlines of North Carolina. Together, they explore John's lifelong connection with the outdoors, how he blends adventure with a full-time career, and how he's cultivated a community of fellow explorers. From Christmas Day hikes to dry-suit sailing in winter winds, John shares stories that blend practical inspiration with a bit of wanderlust magic. 🌲🛶 ⏱️ Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to John Norwood and his adventurous alter ego [00:03:00] Family traditions and the origin of the "dreaded Christmas hike" [00:06:00] Sailing in dry suits and winter wind at Falls & Jordan Lake [00:11:00] An unforgettable halibut fishing trip in Alaska [00:16:00] Why John chooses to adventure local [00:18:00] The magic of Grayson Highlands and wild ponies [00:24:00] John's roots in outdoor exploration [00:33:00] The 11-year quest to complete 100 Classic NC Hikes [00:37:00] Turning solo trips into a thriving hiking community [00:41:00] The deep "why" behind adventuring: mental clarity, physical challenge, and spiritual renewal [00:51:00] Upcoming trips: Cape Lookout Jeep expedition & AT alternatives post-Hurricane Helene 🔑 Key Takeaways Adventure is everywhere – You don't need a passport to find wonder. Make space for solitude – Recharging happens when you unplug and reconnect with nature. Community grows through shared challenge – John's trips turned into a tribe. Local treasures, lifetime stories – From Grayson Highlands to the Sycamore Trail sleep hack, there's beauty in repetition. "The trail gives me solitude, structure, and stories—and that's what keeps me coming back." – John Norwood

4/4/25 • 64:39

I love these conversations, but this one was fun.  We hit on the depths of the human condition to drive each of us on to our own adventures.  So what happens when a dedicated trial attorney makes adventure a non-negotiable part of his life? In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Moody, a prosecutor for the state of Montana who refuses to let a demanding career keep him from chasing adventure. From trail running right out his back door to tackling high-altitude mountaineering, Patrick has found a way to integrate the wilderness into his daily routine. We dive into his experiences traveling across five continents in a single year, climbing some of the world's most stunning peaks, and even navigating a life-altering arthritis diagnosis that nearly took away his ability to walk. Patrick shares how he mentally and physically pushes through challenges, what drives him to keep pursuing difficult things, and why he believes that truly living means stepping into the unknown. This conversation is packed with insights on adventure, resilience, and making the most of the time we have. Episode Highlights: [1:30] – Patrick's background as a Montana-based attorney and adventure-seeker [3:15] – Why Helena, Montana is a paradise for outdoor lovers [6:45] – The shocking arthritis diagnosis that nearly ended Patrick's ability to move [10:20] – How he rebuilt his body and got into trail running post-diagnosis [15:45] – The lessons of adventure: losing a parent young and growing up without wealth [22:10] – Learning to listen to his instincts on when to push forward and when to turn back [31:05] – The scariest moment of his mountaineering career—trapped in a lightning storm [35:55] – A year of adventure: how Patrick traveled to five continents in 2024 [44:30] – The importance of intentionality in adventure, career, and finances [50:10] – Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 fun—why suffering is part of the reward Links & Resources: Books mentioned in the conversation: The Impossible First by Colin O'Brady (about the first solo trek across Antarctica) Camping with Kierkegaard (exploring philosophy and adventure) Connect with past guests mentioned in the episode: Tim Matthews (Ep. 18) Robbie Lenfestey (Ep. 21) Kenton Cool (Ep. 22) Join the Adventure! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review! Follow the show for more inspiring conversations with people who make adventure a priority in their lives. And if this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who needs a little extra push to chase their own adventure. 🚀 🎙️

3/21/25 • 66:01

What would you do if failure was a real possibility? If suffering was inevitable, but you had the option to walk away? Would you still go for it? My guest today, Kimberly Brookshire, knows this challenge well. She's a long-distance hiker, a women's adventure guide, and a passionate fly fisher—always choosing the hard path, the uncertain path, because that's where she finds the most growth. In this episode, Kimberly shares her journey from fashion and city life to hiking thousands of miles on some of the toughest trails in the U.S. and beyond. She opens up about why she keeps pushing her limits, how she finds meaning in suffering, and the lessons she's learned from guiding women through their own adventurous pursuits. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration to take a bold step in your own life, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live fully. Episode Highlights: [2:15] How a childhood filled with adventure led Kimberly to long-distance hiking [6:40] The pivotal decision to hike the Mountain-to-Sea Trail—and why no one thought she'd finish [15:20] Why guiding women's adventure trips is about more than just the outdoors [25:00] Handling adversity on the trail: lessons from near disaster [37:45] The mental toughness strategies that keep Kimberly pushing forward [45:10] Finding the balance between solo adventures and guiding others [54:30] The Arizona Trail: what's next on Kimberly's adventure list Links & Resources: Follow Kimberly on Instagram: @kimberlybrookshire Learn more about the WHOA Travel for women-powered Adventures: WHOA Travel Check out the Mountain-to-Sea Trail: www.mountainstoseatrail.org If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps others find the show and keeps the adventure going.

3/7/25 • 66:37