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Follow Red Bull photographer Christian Pondella as he descends inside the Greenland Ice Cap, a place that no one had ever gone before. Greenland is one of the most remote and extreme countries on Earth. 80% of its surface is covered in ice, temperatures can reach -65°C. But it holds the second largest ice sheet on the planet, and it’s melting fast. Christian teams up with legendary ice climber Will Gadd, and glaciologist Jason Gulley,  to go deeper into the ice than anyone has ever gone before. Their expedition is fraught with danger, but the science they would bring would back change our understanding of climate change, sea level rise and the future of our planet. This is more than just an adventure. This is a descent into the unknown. Highlights include: ·      Descend into a moulin, a dark hole in the ice where meltwater from the glacier surface rushes into depths below·      Explore inside the abyss, a place no one has ever gone before·      Discover Greenland, one of the most remote and extreme places on the planet ·      Learn about the cutting climate science being done now on the Greenland ice cap, and how this expedition changed the fundamental models scientists were using to predict sea level rise over the coming decades.·      Hear about Christian’s incredible career as  Red Bull photographer, including shooting a 300-ft snowmobile jump and a world-first sky dive without a parachute. You read that right.·      Get Christian’s top tips for adventure photography and how to create that perfect shot Christian Pondella is one of the top adventure sports photographers in the world. As well as shooting for Red Bull, he is a senior photographer for Powder Magazine, a San Disk Extreme Team member, Fstop Global Pro, he has published work in Sports Illustrated, ESPN Magazine, Outside, Men’s Journal, Maxim, FHM, GQ, Climbing, Outdoor Photographer, Shutterbug, and a variety of other publications throughout the world. Follow Christian’s work: Instagram @ChristianPondella / www.ChristianPondella.comCover image Christian Pondella / Red Bull Content PoolThank you to Mammoth Lakes for sponsoring this episode! Majestic in scale and awesome in its natural beauty, the year-round adventureland of Mammoth Lakes is one of those rare places that you have to see to still not totally believe. The name speaks to the size of the mountains, the expanse of the valleys, the incredible number of crystal clear mountain lakes and the endless opportunities for adventure just outside your door. But what makes this place really unique are the surreal storybook scenes that drop jaws, spark the imagination and make every moment feel like a brush with the truly incredible. For more info: www.visitmammoth.comFor background information on this episode, including Christian's photos from the trip, please visit: https://www.armchair-explorer.com/post/descent-into-the-unknown-inside-the-greenland-ice-cap-with-red-bull-photographer-christian-pondella Social media: Instagram & Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastArmchair 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. No long-winded interviews, just straight to the heart of the action'Best travel podcasts 2020' - The Guardian'Thrilling stuff' - Sunday Times'Adventure stories from the wildest places on Earth' - The Telegraph'Best Overall Podcast 2020' - Finalist DiscoverPods Awards 

The Seven Summits is the ultimate mountaineering challenge. To stand on the highest peak on each of the seven continents is a feat only a handful of people  have ever achieved. Rebecca Stephens MBE is the first British woman to do so. She's also the first British woman to summit Everest, and she's going to be taking us step-by-step up every single one of those climbs. Are you ready to stand on the roof of the world? Let's go.But this story is about more than just mountaineering. What makes Rebecca so special is that she's able to articulate the lessons she learned on each of those seven climbs, and she's going to be passing on that wisdom to us too . Since completing the Seven Summits, back in 1994, Rebecca has spoken and coached all over the world. Her 'Seven Summits of Success' have helped individuals and businesses all over the world achieve their goals.  We're going to climb Everest, Denali, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro and all the rest. But we're also going to learn what it takes to follow your dreams, and scale your own summits, whatever they may be. Rebecca's message is simple: live your life according to your passions and you can achieve anything. Even, perhaps, standing on the seven highest summits in the world.Highlights include:Climbing Mount Everest with the first British woman to summit, feeling what it's like to stand on top of the worldScaling Denali, the highest mountain in North America, after being trapped in a snow cave for eight days in one of the worst storms the mountain's ever seenReaching the summit of Acongagua, in Argentina, whilst battling 100mph+ windsStanding on the top of Mount Vinson, in Antarctica, Kilimanjaro, in Africa, Cartenz Pyramid, in Indonesia, and Elbrus, in RussiaDiscovering the wisdom of the world's highest mountains - each of the Seven Summits has something unique to teach us, and Rebecca has been sharing those lessons for more than a quarter of a centuryBe inspired to scale your own summits, whatever they may be“The joy of the mountains is they strip away any superficialities revealing that which matters: namely head, heart, and values.   There’s no greater teacher of the human condition, of leadership and of working together as a team.” - Rebecca StephensWho's the guest?On 17th May 1993, Rebecca Stephens became the first British woman to climb Everest and was awarded an MBE for her achievement.  The following year she went on to become the first British woman to scale the Seven Summits, the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. To find copies of her two books, please visit: www.rebeccastephens.com Today, Rebecca speaks, coaches and leads private treks around the world. If you're interested to find out more about her, or to climb with her, please visit: www.rebeccastephens.com For background information on this episode, including Rebecca's photos from the trip, please visit: https://www.armchair-explorer.com/post/the-seven-summits-climbing-the-highest-mountains-on-earth-with-rebecca-stephens-mbe Social media: Instagram & Twitter @aaronmwriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastArmchair 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. No long-winded interviews, just straight to the heart of the actionBook trips inspired by the show at www.armchair-explorer.com or by contacting me at aaron@armchair-explorer.com

Follow journalist Simon Parker as he takes part in the world’s craziest race: 2,500-miles and two weeks across the length of India … in a rickshaw. You read that right. Welcome to the Rickshaw Run: if Monty Python went on a road trip, this is what they’d do.The rickshaw, if you haven’t ridden one before, if 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. Top speed is a rip-roaring 14mph. And you will breakdown. Often. It has been described as a ‘marginally glorified lawnmower’, which is actually doing a disservice to many top of the line grasscutters. But none of that matters, because, by God, they’re fun to drive.And that’s the point. 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 mates travelled 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 is 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 happened in between, well, no one could be sure except that there would be chaos, there would be tears and, travelling on back roads and well off the well-beaten track, they would see a side to India that most visitors never see. Are you ready to set off on the wackiest, most ridiculous race on the planet? Let’s go. Highlights:Take part in the world’s most ridiculous road trip: 2,500 miles across India in a glorified lawnmowerBe inspired by the spirit of old school adventure – embracing challenges and the unknowExperience a side of India that few tourists ever see, staying in small villages well off the usual traveller trail and seeing the entire country from the far northern Himalayan foothills to the steamy jungles of the south        Who’s the guest?Travel writer and journalist Simon Parker sails, cycles, climbs, hikes and paraglides around the world in search of the planet’s most interesting news stories. He writes, films and produces documentaries for the likes of the BBC, The Telegraph and The Independent; and his TV Series Earth Cycle is out now on Amazon Video. If you’re listening October-November 2020, you can follow his latest adventure in real time – a 1,600-mile cycle across the length of Great Britain from the tip of Shetland to the Isles of Scilly, wild camping along the way. He posts great photos, and videos, and is a lot of fun to follow. Twitter, Instagram and Facebook is @simonwiparker. His website is www.simonwparker.co.ukFor background information on this episode, including Simon’s photos from the trip, please visit: www.armchair-explorer.com Social media: Instagram & Twitter @aaronmwriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastArmchair 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 experienceBook trips inspired by the show at www.armchair-explorer.com or by contacting me at aaron@armchair-explorer.com  

Travel to the Kalahari Desert, in Namibia, where under the shade of a Baobab Tree, eight San elders are gathering to perform their traditional healing dances one last time before they pass on. The San are among the oldest continuously surviving tribes on Earth. They have lived among the plains of Southern Africa as hunter-gatherers for at least the last 20,000 years. And for all those long years, they have been dancing. The San are a dancing culture. For them, movement and music is more than ceremony and celebration. It is the way they connect with, and understand, the world, and the spirit. It is also the way they heal. But without apprentices to pass on their practices, the sacred knowledge of their ancient dances was in danger of being lost forever.  The elders asked Ben to come and film them in the hope that one day their great grandchildren would be able to retain this wisdom. Ben has travelled the world. He has filmed the Aboriginees of Australia, the Pygmies of the Congo, and was nominated for a Grammy for his cinematography on the groundbreaking 1 Giant Leap DVD. This, he says, was the adventure of his life. Travel with him now, deep into desert plains of the Nyae Nyae Conservancy, to witness the last dance of the San Bushmen.  What he discovers when he gets there is that this ancient knowledge is vital not just for the San, but for us too. Human beings have been dancing and making music since we first set foot on the Savannah. Every religious and spiritual tradition on Earth has some form of movement or music as part of its practice. It is who we are. The message the San have for us is that dancing is not just a frivolous bit of fun. It is a gateway to the spirit and a powerful means to heal our mental and physical ails. Ben went to Namibia for the sake of the San, but what he brought home might just have the power to save us all.Highlights include:Witness one of the most ancient dances in the world, with original audio recorded in the field courtesy of Ben ColeLearn about the San people and their beliefs about the power of dance to heal our mental and physical ailmentsBen is a world-class storyteller, and former actor, and brings to life the culture and landscape of this incredible country ... including a possible origin story of the Cupid myth!Be inspired to get your own dance on, whether that's in a club or just in your own front room. You may never think about dancing in the same way again!Find out more about Ben Cole's documentary work on Facebook: @bencolecinematography Ben, and his wife Caroline, also run Middle Earth Medicine Ways, which uses the power of dance and movement to facilitate a deeper connection with yourself, your spirit and the world around you. It's fun, they're lovely and you can find out more at www.middleearthmedicine.com. Thank you to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode! This is one of my favourite wines, absolutely gorgeous and perfect for that after trail drop. Head over to www.buyjuggernautwine.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR20 for a 20% discount, delivered straight to your door.Help support the San through David Bruce's charity (Ben's family friend who he recorded the film with), which builds new schools in the region that will teach young San children in their native tongue, close to their homes in the Nyae Nyae Conservancy. Find out more at: www.villageschoolsnamibia.com For background information on this episode, including a clip from Ben's film, please visit: www.armchair-explorer.com Social media: instagram / twitter @aaronmwriter / facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastArmchair 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 storytellin

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 Indians, 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 Indians 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 Indians, 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 areAlso, find out about Ed’s new series – Ed Stafford: First Man Out – which launches its second series on September 24th on the Discovery Channel in the UK. Available in America and elsewhere too  https://www.discoveryuk.com Find out about Ed's new bushcraft academy at: www.bushcraft.academyFor 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 Thank you to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode. Head over to www.buyjuggernautwine.com and type in the code armchair20 to get a 20% discount on your next orderThe 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.comHost/Producer Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer (Nat Geo, The Times etc.) Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. 

Close your eyes. Picture that darkness, that starless night. If that was all you could see, no color, no shades, no shape or light, nothing at all but blackness, would you still have the courage to explore the world? This week’s guest, Christopher Venter, aka The Blind Scooter Guy, did and does, and he’s going to take us on a journey sightless from Sicily to Southern France and show us the world as he experiences it with his other four senses. And guess what? It may just change the way that you see the world too. Christopher had always dreamed of being an explorer. He traveled the world, he went on many adventures. But then, suddenly, in the midst of an epic 18,000-mile Vespa scooter expedition across Africa and Europe something happened that changed his life forever. His sight began to dim. Within 24hrs his world had turned black. Doctors diagnosed a rare virus growing on his retinas. They managed to save his life, but not his sight. At 40 years old, he was told that he was blind and he would never see again. He thought his life was over. He came close to ending it all. But then he heard about a man called James Holman and against the odds he began to hope again.Holman is, perhaps, the world’s most remarkable explorer. Born in 1786, he lost his sight at the age of 25. But instead of giving up on his dreams, he doubled down on them. With very little money, and no assistance, Holman set off to see the world. He sailed around the globe, he fought the slave trade in Africa (a river in the Congo is named after him), he mapped uncharted parts of Australia, he survived captivity in Siberia and rogue elephants in Sri Lanka. And through it all, he became something of a celebrity of his day, a symbol of raw determination and the capacity of the human spirit for adventure. If Holman could do it, why couldn’t he?Highlights include:Find out what it’s like to experience the world as a blind travelerHear the amazing story of James Holman’s life, one of the most remarkable explorers in history, but still largely unknown to most peopleExplore Sicily, Tuscany, and the Amalfi CoastDiscover Nice, Provence and the PyreneesBe inspired by Christopher’s courage and determination to make his dreams come true, despite such sudden and devastating set backs Learn to appreciate the world in a deeper way. Christopher paints images in his mind by slowing down, being present and using his other four senses. Find out how you can do the same and see the world in a new wayListen to how Christopher’s story can inspire you to overcome your own challenges too, whatever they may beWho's the Guest?Christopher Venter, aka the Blind Scooter Guy, is a blind adventurer, explorer, writer, speaker and storyteller. He has two books: How I Became The Blind Scooter Guy: My soul searching safari by scooter from the Southern Tip of Africa to the Shamrock fields of IrelandSightless From Sicily to Southern France: A blind man's journey by any means - from Ocean and Air to Road and Rail, experienced through the remaining four senses@BlindScooterGuyhttps://www.facebook.com/BlindScooterGuyhttps://blindscooterguy.wordpress.comThe 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.comHost/Producer Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer (Nat Geo, The Times etc.) Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. 

Bhutan is the last of the great Himalayan kingdoms. Still largely untouched by outside influences, shrouded in mystery and magic, this Buddhist country, hidden for centuries on the roof of the world, is like nowhere else on the planet. Follow British Travel Writer of the Year Emma Thomson as she explores the culture and majesty of Druk Yul, Land of the Thunder Dragon, as it's known by its people. Shunning the usual group tour, Emma stays with local families miles from the tourist trail and discovers, because of that, a glimpse of the real Bhutan most travellers will never see. But this is more than just an adventure. Cut off from the rest of the world until 1974, and surrounded by virtually impenetrable Himalayan peaks on all sides, Bhutan has remained culturally intact for centuries. It is a real-life Shangri-La, a kind of fabled mythical kingdom hidden in the mountains, where spirituality and happiness are more important than money and economic development. Intrepid travellers whisper its name in hushed and reverent tones for a reason. Bhutan is, perhaps, the most enlightened country on Earth, and when we visit some of that wisdom and inspiration becomes a part of us too.Highlights include:Staying with two local Bhutanese families in remote rural villages, far off the usual tourist trailExperiencing real Bhutanese daily life: tending the fields, bathing in hot stone baths and helping to prepare the meals - fresh dumplings, curries, chillies and cheeseExploring Punaka Dzong, the most beautiful of all of Bhutan's fortress templesTrekking to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, which clings to the face of a sheer cliff and is the holiest site in the countryHearing the myth of Shangri-La, or Shambala, a fabled hidden kingdom in the mountains where the wisdom of the world was guarded for centuries, and how that relates to the history and ideology of Bhutan todayLearning about Gross National Happiness. Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure its progress not by Gross National Product (the value of the goods it produces) but by Gross National Happiness (how happy and spiritually fulfilled its people are)Visiting Bhutan's head of astrology, which is usually forbidden to tourists and discovering a surprise message there that might just shake your scepticism. Be inspired by the peace and serenity of the most enlightened country on Earth, and learn how to take that wisdom and stillness into your own life tooWho's the Guest?Emma Thomson is the current British Guild of Travel Writers Travel Writer of the Year. She has been hooked on all things 'travel' since the age of 14, when she would sneakily rip pages out of ageing copies of National Geographic in the school library to add to her travel scrapbook. Today, she's just as passionate about adventure and has been working as a full-time freelance travel journalist since 2011, after spending six years as Commissioning Editor at respected guidebook publisher Bradt Travel Guides. She specialises in remote destinations and responsible, adventure-based stories.Follow her on twitter: @emmasthomson, and instagram: @emmathomsontravelsWant More Bhutan? For background photos, information, itineraries and more, please visit: http://www.armchair-explorer.com  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. Host/Producer Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer (Nat Geo, The Times etc.). He like science fiction, sushi and tequila, he hates rom coms, shellfish and gin. Like travel? We'll get on well. Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. 

Follow You Tube star Drew Binsky to two of the world’s most dangerous countries: Iran & Afghanistan. We also hear about visits to Yemen, Syria, Somalia, North Korea and more. The media calls them evil. Politicians say they want to do us harm. But if you have the courage to walk the streets of Tehran and Kabul, of Damascus and Mogadishu, you’ll see that nothing could be further from the truth. This is a story about turning our world views upside down. It’s a story about breaking stereotypes and the power of travel to bring us closer together, no matter how far apart we may at first appear. True adventure is having the courage to let go of your pre-conceptions and hold out your hand. Are you ready to see the world’s most dangerous countries through new eyes? Let’s go. Highlights include:·      Exploring Iran on a whirlwind tour from fire temples in the desert to the most breathtaking art and history in the Islamic world·      Discovering a secret underground rave in the middle of one of the most conservative countries on Earth·      Finding out about the real Iran, behind the propaganda, home to what many travelers consider to be the most hospitable and friendliest people in the Middle East·      Seeing Mazar-e-Sharif, Kabul and remote regions of northern Afghanistan as a tourist·      Picking up a hitchhiker in rural Afghanistan and being invited back to their house for tea, the first visitor they had ever received. Being welcomed as an honoured guest despite the war raging around them ·      Getting to know Drew Binsky, one of the biggest You Tube travel stars on the planet, who has over 1.3 billion video views, and millions of followers, and specializes in authentic, local travel; breaking stereotypes; and inspiring people to see out-of-the-way places·      Hearing about Drew’s quest to visit every country in the world - he’s just 6 short, 191 out of 197 – and how that’s changed his world views ·      Being inspired to see the world through new eyes, challenging your preconceptions and learning about two of the world’s most mis-understood countries·      Feeling uplifted by a positive story: the world is a safer, friendlier and more amazing place than we are led to believe. And it’s waiting for you to explore itDREW BINKSY: Who’s the Guest?Drew is a full-time travel videographer, travel blogger and content creator with more than 5.5 million social media followers and over 1.3 billion video views. He first caught the travel bug while studying abroad in Prague during his junior year in college. After graduating, he shunned corporate life for a job teaching English in Seoul, South Korea, where he lived for 18 months became conversational in Korean, got a black belt in taekwondo and launched his first blog. He now travels the world full-time, posting daily videos, during his quest to visit every country in the world. He specializes in authentic, local travel, which breaks stereotypes and sheds new light on out-of-the-way and misunderstood destinations. Website: https://drewbinsky.comYou Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Ize0RLIbGdH5x4wI45G-ASocial Media: @DrewBinskyFind out more about his forthcoming documentary here: http://drewbinskydocumentary.comThe Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Host/Producer Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer (Nat Geo, The Times etc.) Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. 

Follow professional sailor Mark Towill on The Ocean Race, the ultimate around-the-world sailing competition: nine months, and 45,000 nautical miles, through some of the toughest seas on the planet. Only the strongest sailors in the world are able to compete, and only for the glory. There is no prize money. The Ocean Race (formerly the Volvo Ocean Race) is the toughest team challenge in sailing, and arguably the most grueling competition in professional sports. But it's also one of the most beautiful. There is something nostalgic, even romantic, about the idea of sailing around the world powered by nothing but your wits and the wind. It harks back to the golden days of exploration. This is more than a race, this is a true adventure. Are you ready to sail around the world? Let's go. Highlights:- Hear Mark Towill's incredible story of the 2017/18 Ocean Race- Find out what it feels like to sail around the whole world, powered by nothing but your wits and the wind- Learn about life on board the fastest sailboats on the planet, and the mental toughness required to survive the grueling conditions- Discover the adventure of the Southern Ocean, where Mark Towill experienced 65knot winds and seas of up to 30-feet tall- Find out about the tragedy that occurred in the waters off of Hong Kong, and the disaster that happened rounding Cape Horn- Hear about the early Polynesian explorers who inspired Mark Towill, who grew up in Hawai'i, and how he's now involved with helping to promote that culture and keep alive the traditional wayfinding of the early Polynesians.- Be inspired by Mark Towill, and his team 11th Hour Racing's, message of raising awareness about ocean sustainability and the problem of ocean plastics Benefits to You:- See the ocean through new eyes and be inspired to embark on your own high seas adventure- Learn how the mental toughness of round-the-world sailors can be applied to your own life in positive ways- Be inspired by this story of overcoming tragedy and hardships in pursuit of excellence, and the greater good- Be motivated to get involved with ocean sustainability and the fight to protect our oceans from plastic pollution MARK TOWILL: Who's the Guest?Mark grew up sailing on the eastern shores of Oahu, Hawaii before racing at both the prestigious Punahou School and Brown University Sailing Team, where he sailed with fellow team co-founder Charlie Enright.In 2008 at the age of 18, Mark was selected to participate in the 44th Transpac Race aboard Morning Light where he first met Charlie. Mark was the youngest member on the team and the experience crystallized his ultimate goal of competing in the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race, which he did in 2014-15 with Team Alvimedica. The duo put together a second campaign for 2017-18 with Vestas 11th Hour Racing.Today, he is the CEO and co-skipper of 11th Hour Racing, whose goal is to win the 2021/22 Ocean Race whilst raising awareness and inspiring the sailing community and racing fans around the world with respect to environmental issues and ocean health.@11thhourracinghttps://11thhourracingteam.orghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqlcxiz-4f-4k6FPgIf2YagBOOK THIS TRIPPlease visit the individual episode pages of the Armchair Explorer website to find out how you can do trips inspired by this journey: www.Armchair-Explorer.com ... and how host/producer Aaron Millar can help you plan your ultimate adventure.The Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. Host Aaron Millar is a multi-award-winning travel writer, journalist, presente

Follow ex-pro surfer Jon Rose on his ultimate adventure horse trekking through the remote wilderness of Mongolia. This is the 'Land of the Blue Sky', a place of limitless space, and boundless freedom, where bands of nomadic families still live the old way, tending livestock and moving with the seasons. But this is more than just a story of adventure; and it's about more than horse trekking in Mongolia too. This is a story about destiny. It's a story about hope, and the power of the human spirit.Jon Rose spent 12 years as a professional free surfer. He appeared on the covers of the biggest magazines in the world. He rode swells in Australia, Bali, Fiji; he surfed South Africa, Iceland and more. But his favourite place was Indonesia, and it was there, on a surf trip, that something happened that changed his life forever. Something harrowing, and devastating, something he could never have expected. But in that moment, Jon found his destiny. He found his life's true purpose. It wasn't to ride waves, it was something much bigger. It would take him from the shores of Indonesia to the streets of Haiti. It would take him from the mountains of Nepal to the endless plains of Mongolia, and beyond. And it wouldn't change just life, it would change the lives of millions of people around the world. HIGHLIGHTS:Go horse trekking in Mongolia, the land of Ghengis Khan, one of the wildest and most remote places on EarthStay with nomadic families along the way, trying local delicacies including Airag, or fermented mare's milk, the national drink (let's just say, Jon had to hold his nose while he drank!)Learn about Jon Rose's 12 year career as a pro surfer, from his days growing up in Laguna Beach, California, to winning national competitions, getting sponsored by Quicksilver and becoming one of the leading professional free surfers of his timeHear about the devastating event, which happened during a surf trip in Indonesia, and changed Jon's life foreverFind out how Jon reacted, and how what he did next changed the lives of millions of people around the worldBENEFITS:Be inspired to find your own destiny, and life purposeFind out how adventurers and explorers, just like you, can connect more deeply with local cultures and help change the lives of the people they visit Feel empowered and uplifted with this positive story of change and hope in the darkest timesDiscover the wonders and vast landscapes of horse trekking in Mongolia, which Jon describes as 'true bliss'Learn about the culture of the 'Land of the Blue Sky', one of the oldest and most fascinating on EarthWHO'S THE GUEST?Connect with Jon Rose, and the work he does, on the following links:https://www.wavesforwater.orgInstagram: @wavesforwater / @jon_roseFacebook: @Wavesforwaterhttps://rascalsroundup.orgIf you're inspired by this episode please get involved! BOOK THIS TRIPPlease visit the individual episode pages of the Armchair Explorer website to find out how you can do trips inspired by this journey: www.Armchair-Explorer.com The Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Instagram/Twitter @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastHost Aaron Millar is a multi-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. 

40,000 miles, two years and 17 countries: travel across the Americas from Alaska to Argentina with overlanding expert Dan Grec. This is one of the world's most epic road trips and we have a front row seat. The term 'Overlanding' refers to self-reliant expedition style adventures, usually in 4x4 vehicles and to remote locations. Think of it like extreme road tripping. Just about anywhere in the world is open for overland adventures, but the following the Pan American Highway from the far north of Alaska to Cape Horn on the southern tip of Argentina is considered by many to be the ultimate trip. And we're in good company for it. Dan Grec is one of the world's leading overlanding experts and the author of 'The Road Chose Me Volume I & II', which chronicles two of his favourite expeditions, including this one. His You Tube channel, also called The Road Chose Me, is one of the world's leading resources for overland travel. Visit the episode page for more details: https://www.armchair-explorer.com/post/extreme-road-trip-alaska-to-argentina-with-overlanding-expert-dan-grec But not only does Dan Grec know his stuff, he also knows how to tell one hell of a story. This is about one of the most extreme road trips on the planet. It's about the incredible scenery, people and adventures he passed along the way. But it's also about what he learned from 40,000 miles on the road. Before he set off, Dan Grec was just an ordinary guy with a crazy dream. He made it come true: so can you.Highlights include:Hiking to the 'Magic Bus' in the backcountry of Alaska to visit the final resting place of Chris McCandless, whose life was chronicled in the book and film 'Into the Wild'.Trekking to the smoking crater of the Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala, seeing lava close enough to touch, close enough to smell the sulphur burning, to melt the soles of your shoesDriving across the Salar de Uyuni, the Bolivian salt flats, a mesmerising 3,681 square mile stark white plain and a true wonder of the worldFinding 'Hell on Earth' in a Bolivian silver mine: Potosi, known locally as "the mountain that eats men", where life expectancy is less than 45 years oldExploring Ecuador and climbing the Cotopaxi VolcanoReaching the 'Ends of the Earth' in southern Patagonia, driving to the end of the road and walking into the seaBenefits to you:Learn Dan's top tips for planning your own overland adventureBe inspired to make your own travel dreams come true, no matter how big or smallDiscover the lessons that Dan Grec learned after 40,000 miles on the roadHear Chris McCandless' story, and how it inspired Dan to break out of the mold, and live a more purposeful and intentional lifeFind out Dan Grec's secret to living a truly free lifeConnect with Dan Grec and find out everything you need to know about overlanding at:http://www.theroadchoseme.com Instagram: @theroadchosemeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theroadchosemeYou Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkyky5zC8R1Gi6YeeCR6BDg BOOK THIS TRIPPlease visit the individual episode pages of the Armchair Explorer website to find out how you can do this journey, and others inspired by it: www.Armchair-Explorer.com ... or get in touch with Dan directly on any of the links aboveThe Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Instagram @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast

Free diving is breath hold diving. You have a mask, wetsuit, fins and your lungs. That’s it. Take a deep breath, dive down, hold it, and whatever you do. Don’t. Let. Go. Sound easy? It’s not.But it’s worth it. When you scuba dive, you’re a visitor to the underwater world. It’s loud and often scares away the marine life. With breath hold diving, you’re a part of it. You see the ocean on its own terms: silent, unencumbered and free. In this episode, we follow in the fin steps of adventure photographer Kellon Spencer as he learns to free dive. Kellon specializes in underwater photography. But he soon realized that to get the best images, to get as close as possible to the marine wildlife without scaring them away, he would have to ditch the scuba gear and learn breath hold diving for himself. There was just one problem. He was terrified. Kellon excels at adventure sports, and had worked as scuba guide for many years. But he’d heard the horror stories, and he knew about the dangers: underwater blackouts, loss of motor control, blood dumps. In one five year study, 75% of all free diving accidents were fatal. Follow his journey from his first free dive in The Blue Hole, New Mexico to the tropical waters of Grand Cayman and beyond. Dive with him as he overcomes his fear and learns to see the ocean through new eyes. Far from being an extreme activity, Kellon realizes that breath hold diving is actually more like underwater meditation than an adrenaline sport. He learns to master his anxiety, to control the panic, and comes out stronger, bolder and more connected to the ocean than he ever was before. And as for getting closer to that marine wildlife, let’s just say he succeeds in a BIG way – and he tells us about that too. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:·      Hear what breath hold diving feels like, unencumbered by scuba gear, silent and free·      Want to learn to free dive? Listen to a first-hand account of beginner, and pro level, breath hold diving courses·      Follow Kellon down to 100-feet deep, the equivalent of 10 atmospheres of pressur·      Hear what it feels like when you hit the ‘free fall zone’, which Kellon describes as “sky-diving underwater”·      Learn the techniques that teach you how to hold your breath for three minutes or more – often achievable in just a few days·      Discover the superhuman feats of champion free divers, including deepest dive, longest breath hold and more·      Learn the theory behind breath hold diving, including the mammalian dive reflex and how human beings are genetically programmed to free dive·      Find out how to apply free diving breathing techniques in your everyday life to lessen the effects of anxiety and stress·      Join Kellon as he experiences one of the most incredible marine wildlife encounters in the world: free diving with a 40-ft whale in RoatanWHO’S THE GUEST?Kellon Spencer is a professional adventure photographer and free diving instructor. He has embarked on over a decade of expeditions with the collaboration of various clients, including the National Forest Foundation, Royal Enfield Motorcycles, Ocean First, another.  His passion is using the power of imagery to bring awareness to the importance of conservation and wildlife preservation. See Kellon's work at: www.kellonspencerphotography.com. Instagram: @Kellon_SpencerFacebook: @KellonspencerphotographyBOOK THIS TRIPPlease visit the individual episode pages of the Armchair Explorer website to find out how you can do this journey, and others inspired by it: www.Armchair-Explorer.comThe Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Instagram @AaronMWriter / Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast

Join best-selling author Adam Weymouth on a 2,000-mile canoe journey down the Yukon River, from its source in Northern Canada, through Alaska, to the Bering Sea. It's one of the wildest and most pristine places on Earth filled with Moose, Bald Eagles and Grizzly Bears. But this is more than just an epic paddle. The Kings of the Yukon are the King Salmon, the Chinooks, who swim up the river every year in their tens of thousands to spawn at the place of their birth. It's one of the most remarkable migrations in the animal kingdom, and it's also one of the most important because the people that live by the river, mostly First Nations people, depend on that salmon run to survive. But it is now under threat. By tracing their journey, Adam tells the story of the salmon, but he also tells the story of the lives of people whose fate is intertwined with them. This is a beautiful adventure, but it's also an important and inspiring meditation on what it is to live, and survive, in one of the most remote places on Earth.HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE- Discovering one of the most remote, pristine and beautiful places on Earth- Learning about the lives of the First Nations people that live by the river, their culture, history and way of life- Finding out about the migration of the King Salmon, one of the most remarkable journeys in the animal kingdom- Feeling what it's like to paddle 2,000-miles through one of the most remote places on Earth, camping on river side beaches along the way- Meeting Andy Bassich, reality TV star from Life Below Zero who lives on the Yukon River, and other off-grid characters Adam passes along the way- Hearing about the Gold Rush History of the Yukon from an indigenous perspective - Learning about the First Nations protest against the fishing ban, why it matters and it's relationship to Gandhi's famous Salt March of the early 20th century- Being inspired by a First Nations view of fishing, hunting and the interconnectedness of the natural world- Finding hope and optimism, for the King Salmon, and the people whose lives depend on themWHO'S THE GUEST?Adam Weymouth is the Sunday Times' Best Young Writer of 2018. An environmental journalist, his work has been published in the Guardian, The Atlantic, the New Internationalist and by the BBC, with his primary focus being the relationship between humans and the natural world. www.AdamWeymouth.com / @adamweymouthHis book, Kings of the Yukon: an Alaskan River Journey, is out now.BOOK THIS TRIPPlease visit the individual episode pages of the Armchair Explorer website to find out how you can do this journey, and others inspired by it: www.Armchair-Explorer.comABOUT THE SHOWThe 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. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action. Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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.  @AaronMWriter https://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriter/ https://twitter.com/AaronMWriter Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast

Alone on a mountain top in the Pyrenees, in the pitch black of night, without another soul around, a woman hears a voice echoing out of the darkness. It was an experience she couldn't understand or explain. It terrified her. But it also changed her life. Follow nature writer Jini Reddy on a Vision Quest, a lone wilderness vigil on a remote mountain in the Pyrenees for five days without food, phone, or connection with the outside world of any kind. Hear how that experience changed her, and led to a new understanding of nature and her place in it.  After she returned to civilisation, that voice, that mystery, inspired her to begin another kind of quest. She called it Wanderland: a search for the magical in the landscape of her home, Great Britain. We follow in her footsteps, to treasure maps and lost springs, sacred Scottish isles and hidden temples in the land. Through it all, we begin to see another hidden side of nature, more akin to our indigenous ancestors' views than our modern selves. We begin to see beyond the ordinary, into the deep wonder and magic of the wilderness itself. In Wanderland, all things are possible.Highlights include: Learn what feels like to go on a modern day Vision Quest, a five-day lone wilderness vigil, just as indigenous tribes around the world have done for MilleniaHear the unsettling, and otherworldly story, of the Voice from the darkness that changed Jini's lifeFollow a treasure map to go skinny dipping in a lost springDiscover a hidden land temple on the Scottish island of Iona, one of the most sacred places in Great BritainHear the story of 'Wanderland' - Jini's critically acclaimed book about her journey in search for the magical in the landscapes of Great BritainFind out about indigenous perspectives on nature and be inspired to connect more deeply with the world around youGet Jini's top tips on how you can begin your own Wanderland, your own journey to find the mystical in the modern worldWanderlandGet 30% off with the code: WANDERLAND30www.bloomsbury.com/wanderland“What a wonderful book Wanderland is! A witty, gentle, original and very modern quest for the magical (not the mythical) in Britain's landscape, which both made me laugh and moved me.” –  Robert MacfarlaneJini ReddyJini has been an award-winning journalist, travel writer and nature writer for many years. Her byline has appeared in The Guardian, TIME magazine, National Geographic Traveller, Geographical, Psychologies, Resurgence and the Ecologist and countless other publications, both print and online.Recently, she was named one of National Geographic’s Women of Impact. You can read the interview here  Follow Jini: Twitter: @Jini_Reddy (https://twitter.com/Jini_Reddy) / Instagram: @JiniReddy20 (https://www.instagram.com/jinireddy20/)ComposerOriginal soundtrack composed by Alastair Nisbet. https://www.facebook.com/allynisbetArmchair ExplorerFollow the show on social media: Facebook: @ArmchairExplorerPodcast (https://www.facebook.com/ArmchairExplorerPodcast)/ Instagram: @AaronMWriter (https://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriter/)For eco-tourism adventure ideas related to the show, please visit the individual episode pages at: https://www.armchair-explorer.com Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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. 

The Anwals are the last remaining migrating shepherds of the Indian Himalayas. Each spring, they take their flocks from the heat of the valleys to graze among the high alpine pastures of the Himalayas. They won’t return until Autumn. It is a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations. Follow in their footsteps on this incredible journey, hiking village to village, and staying in small community owned guesthouses along the way. This is some of the most dramatic and breath-taking hiking on the planet. But it’s more than that too. The Anwals traditional way of life is under threat. As the modern world encroaches ever further upon these villages, young people are forced to leave their rural homes and find work in the city, often in brutal conditions, for little pay. By following the annual migration of the Anwals, and staying in their villages, we provide economic empowerment to their community and a future for the next generation. This is a story about going beyond the end of the road, beyond the grip of the modern world. It’s a story about exploring one of the most remote, and staggeringly beautiful, places on Earth. And it’s a story about hope. In the footsteps of the Anwals, we discover peace and serenity and, perhaps, something about our own path too. Highlights include:-       Walking with the Anwals on their annual migration-       Meeting lead Anwals, camping with them, hearing their stories-       Staying overnight in small rural villages, discovering their unique culture that has remained unchanged for generations-       Exploring one of the most remote, and untouched, places on Earth-       Learning about the plight of the Anwals, and the uplifting story of how that’s changing-       Reflecting upon the Anwal's simple existence, and how it can inspire positive change in our own values and way of lifeTaking us on this adventure is award-wining travel writer, journalist, broadcaster and author Juliet Rix. Follow her on twitter at: https://twitter.com/julietrix1As well as a number of guide books, which are beautifully written and informative, Juliet also has a children’s book, ‘Travels with my Granny’, which explores issues surrounding dementia through the adventures a young girl has with her grandmother: https://www.amazon.com/Travels-My-Granny-Juliet-Rix/dp/1910959340 BOOK THIS TRIP: This trip is run by award-winning sustainable tourism operator, Village Ways. To find out more about them, and book this trip for yourself, please visit: www.Village-Ways.comFor other eco-tourism adventure ideas related to the show, please visit the individual episode pages at: http://www.Armchair-Explorer.com  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. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action. Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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, the IPW Best Destination Writer 2017 and Visit USA’s Best National Newspaper Writer 2014, 2016 & 2017. Aaron

Seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is one of the rarest and most inspiring wildlife experiences on the planet. There is an immediate bond, a sense of connection. When you look a mountain gorilla in the eye, you see yourself reflected back.Follow Praveen Moman, one of the world's leading conservationists, into the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda in search of the critically endangered mountain gorilla. Through our journey, we learn about Praveen's work to protect this last stand of one of the world's most incredible creatures. Far from being the King Kong monsters we once feared, mountain gorillas, we discover, are gentle, benign and incredibly intelligent. Seeing them up close is one of the world's greatest wildlife adventures.But that's not all. Praveen also takes us to the Kyambura Gorge, in Uganda, in search of a lost troop of Chimpanzees who have become isolated due to deforestation and human expansion into the area. Like the gorillas, we share an existential bond with these primates and Praveen is leading an effort to help safeguard their future.This is more than just a wildlife adventure. Over the last 20 years Praveen has pioneered a new style of community-led conservation that puts the needs of indigenous people first. In doing so, he has shown how communities can benefit from the conservation of their lands while at the same time helping to rebuild one of the world's most war-torn regions. This is a positive and uplifting story about the power of hope to change the world.Highlights include:- Trekking in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda in search of the critically endangered mountain gorilla- Hearing what it feels like to sit quietly among the troop, as babies come curiously up to explore, and the 400lb male silverback brushes past- Learning about the history, science and conservation of these incredible primates, including the story of Diane Fossey one of the first champions of their cause- Walking into the Kyambura Gorge as the lost troop of Chimpanzees comes down from the canopy and surrounds you on all sides- Being inspired by Praveen's story, a refugee of Uganda who returned to his beloved homeland to help rebuild one of the most war-torn regions on the planet- Finding out about his visionary model of community-led conservation, a system which has since been adopted around the world BOOK THIS TRIP:Praveen's conservation efforts are funded by eco-tourism. His company, Volcanoes Safaris, has four lodges - three in Uganda and one in Rwanda - that specialise in taking guests on primate safaris. They are widely recognised as the best, and most sustainable, way to see these incredible animals in the wild, as well as find out more about the local communities that surround them. I've written about them for years and highly recommend them. For more information, please visit: https://volcanoessafaris.com For other eco-tourism adventure ideas related to the show, please visit the individual episode pages at http://www.Armchair-Explorer.com  SUPPORT COMMUNITY CONSERVATION:If you can't make the trip, but want to find out more about how you can help Praveen's conservation efforts, please visit his non-profit the Volcanoes Safari Partnership Trust: https://volcanoessafaris.com/community/To find out more about the Kyambura Gorge Ecotourism Project and how you can help to protect this lost troop of chimpanzees, please visit: https://volcanoessafaris.com/kyambura-community-projects/ SUPPORT GORILLA CONSERVATION:Diane Fossey's Gorilla Fund is the largest and longest running organisation dedicated solely to the conservation of mountain gorillas: https://gorillafund.orgMORE ABOUT PRAVEEN:https://volcanoessafaris.com/all-people/praveen-moman/Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PWqFTr7DHg MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: http://www.Armchair-Explorer.com

In 1999, Jamie Catto and his partner Duncan Bridgeman set off on a round the world journey to make an album and DVD that would be a snapshot of humanity at the turn of the millenium. The result, 1 Giant Leap, was nominated for a Grammy and received huge critical acclaim and more than one top 10 single. Travel with Jamie as he tells the story of that journey, from Africa through India, Nepal, Australia, New Zealand and, finally, America. What they discovered was Unity in the Diversity. This is a story about music, it's a story about inspiration, and it's a story about the power of travel to expand your mind. Get ready to take 1 Giant Leap around the world.Highlights include:- Original 1 Giant Leap album soundtrack throughout- Recording Baaba Maal in Senegal, Mahotella Queens in South Africa and More- Discovering the Magic and Spirituality of India in Varanasi- Learning About Maori Culture in New Zealand, and Aboriginal Culture in Australia- Meeting Michael Stipe from REM and Other Stars in America- Get Deep with Jamie Discussing Ram Dass, God, Death, Humanity & Personal Evolution - Be Inspired to Create & Connect on Your own Journeys, Wherever They May BeJamie is an incredibly articulate, funny and inspiring talker. Hanging out with him is like injecting steroids for your creativity, spirituality and personal development. This episode may just change your life. Connect with Jamie, and learn about his workshops, films and books at: https://www.jamiecatto.com Follow Jamie at:https://www.facebook.com/jamie.catto.1https://www.instagram.com/jamiecatto/https://twitter.com/JamieCattoLiveOriginal music by 1 Giant Leap, courtesy of Jamie Catto & Duncan BridgemanTo book this trip, and other music-inspired adventures, please visit: www.armchair-explorer.comThe Armchair Explorer podcast is adventure storytelling with beats, original music and cinematic effects. Each episode one of the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action.Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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, the IPW Best Destination Writer 2017 and Visit USA’s Best National Newspaper Writer 2014, 2016 & 2017. Aaron grew up in Brighton, England but is currently hiding out in the Rocky Mountains of Louisville, Colorado. @AaronMWriterhttps://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriter/https://twitter.com/AaronMWriterFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast

Tima Deryan is the first Lebanese woman to summit Everest. Follow her journey step-by-step and learn what it feels like to climb the tallest mountain in the world. But that's not all. Tima is doing the Seven Summits challenge, in which you must climb the tallest peak on each of the seven continents. It's the toughest challenge in mountaineering and only a handful of people have ever achieved. Tima tells her story, climbing mountains from Europe through South America. But this is about more than mountaineering. Tima is standing on the roof of the world to prove to other women in the Middle East, and around the world, that they can do whatever they set their minds to. It's a story about freedom; it's a story about women's rights and it's a story about one woman's determination to live her dreams.Highlights include:- Hearing what it feels like to stand on the roof of the world- Passing through the dangerous Khumbu Ice Falls and exposed Hilary Step on the way to the summit- Discovering the beauty of the Himalayas- Finding out about life on base camp, and the dangerous camps higher up the mountain- Learning about Nepalese Sherpa culture and their unique way of life- Hearing stories about climbing other Seven Summit peaks, including Erebus, in Europe, and Aconcagua, in South America- Being inspired by Tima's positive mental attitude, determination to achieve her dreams and the message she has for other Arab women around the worldThrough this incredible journey we begin to understand what it takes to climb the highest mountain in the world. It's more than physical endurance, it's about mental toughness, humility and positivity. For Tima, it's also about something larger than herself: freedom for women around the world to achieve their dreams, whatever they may be. Follow Tima:https://www.instagram.com/mountaingipsyhttps://www.facebook.com/MountaingipsyTo book this trip, and other adventures in the Himalayas, please visit: www.armchair-explorer.comTo find out about how you can help clean up Everest, check out: https://www.summitclimb.com/charity/cleaning-up-mount-everestThe Armchair Explorer podcast is adventure storytelling with beats, original music and cinematic effects. Each episode one of the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action.Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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, the IPW Best Destination Writer 2017 and Visit USA’s Best National Newspaper Writer 2014, 2016 & 2017. Aaron grew up in Brighton, England but is currently hiding out in the Rocky Mountains of Louisville, Colorado. @AaronMWriterhttps://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriter/https://twitter.com/AaronMWriterFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastOriginal music by Michael Comber, aka L.I.D. (Life in Development): http://lidmusic.co.uk. Check out more from Mike here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1FHmkcsnRqo0OaNSHKRLiu 

John Herrington is the first Native American astronaut. Join him on an out-of-this-world adventure as he takes us on a space-walk onboard the International Space Station. Hear what it feels like to be blasted into orbit at 17,000mph, learn what it’s like to live in Zero-G, and then step outside the hatch for one of the scariest, and most profound, adventures on the planet: a space-walk 220-miles above the Earth. But this is episode is about more than just adventure. Astronauts report a psychological phenomenon called The Overview Effect, a shift in cognitive awareness, when they return home from space. Through our journey, we see the Earth through John Herrington’s eyes – a bright jewel floating in the vastness of space - and come to realize, as he did, how precious, and amazing, our planet really is. This adventure may just change your life.  “There was nothing between me and the edge of the universe … it changed me profoundly” - John Herrington Highlights include: -       Heading out with John Herrington, the first Native American astronaut, for a space-walk 220-miles above the Earth-       Learning about life aboard the International Space Station, and finding out what makes the ISS one of the humankind’s greatest ever achievements -       Following John Herrington through basic training, including the notorious ‘vomit comet’ -       Discovering what it feels like to launch into orbit at 17,000mph-       Seeing the Earth as a whole through John Herrington’s eyes, clouds rushing past, continents drifting into view-       Learning about the ‘Overview Effect’, a cognitive shift in awareness reported by many astronauts after seeing the Earth from space-       Discovering John Herrington’s Chickasaw roots and how that has inspired his life and career to date John Herrington’s new Imax movie is ‘Into America’s Wild’ – www.intoamericaswild.com … please check it out to follow more of his amazing adventures. In the episode, I mention Carl Sagan’s masterpiece book: The Pale Blue Dot. It’s one of my favorites. If you’re interested in checking it out, I highly recommend doing so. Here’s a link: https://www.amazon.com/Pale-Blue-Dot-Vision-Future/dp/0345376595And here’s that amazing photograph, which inspired it all: https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/resources/536/voyager-1s-pale-blue-dot/ I also mention a service that let’s you experience Zero-G, without being an astronaut. Check it out here: www.gozerog.com Original music by Michael Comber, aka L.I.D. (Life in Development): http://lidmusic.co.ukCheck out more from Mike here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1FHmkcsnRqo0OaNSHKRLiuADVENTURE STORYTELLING PODCASTThe Armchair Explorer podcast is adventure storytelling with beats, original music and cinematic effects. Each episode one of the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action.AARON MILLAR TRAVEL WRITERHost Aaron Millar is a multi-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. @AaronMWriterhttps://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriter/Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast

Tommy Moe won the Gold Medal for downhill skiing at the 1994 Winter Olympics. Follow him up to the backcountry of Alaska to shred some turns in the Tordrillo Mountains, one of the best places on the planet for heli-skiing. Then head to Lillehammer, Norway and that epic day when Tommy surprised the world by winning the Olympic Gold Medal. Listen as he takes you turn-buy-turn down that famous run and shares some of his secrets on how ski harder, bigger and better. But that's not all. Tommy also talks about something called the Flow State - a state of mind that many top athletes report when time seems to slow down, focus is heightened and superhuman feats suddenly become possible. Like winning the gold medal, when no one thought you could. This one's for all you powder heads.Highlights include:- Following Tommy down every turn of his Gold Medal run- Discover the remote Tordrillo Mountains in Alaska, one of the best places for heli-skiing and big mountain adventures on the planet- Hear what it feels like to drop in to some of steepest, scariest backcountry runs in the country- Listen to Tommy's story, how he learnt to ski, his love of the backcountry and what adventure means to him - Learn about Flow, a state of mind that dramatically enhances your physical skills and abilities, and how to reach it yourselfThrough it all, we realize that high performance in adventure sports is as much about state of mind as it is physical ability. To book this trip, and other Alaskan adventures, please visit: www.armchair-explorer.comTo ski with Tommy and visit his lodge in Alaska, please check out: https://www.tordrillomountainlodge.comhttps://www.instagram.com/tordrillohelihttps://www.facebook.com/TordrilloMountainLodge/The Armchair Explorer podcast is adventure storytelling with beats, original music and cinematic effects. Each episode one of the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. No long-winded interviews, just straight to heart of the action.Host Aaron Millar is a multi-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, the IPW Best Destination Writer 2017 and Visit USA’s Best National Newspaper Writer 2014, 2016 & 2017. Aaron grew up in Brighton, England but is currently hiding out in the Rocky Mountains of Louisville, Colorado. @AaronMWriterhttps://www.instagram.com/aaronmwriterhttps://twitter.com/AaronMWriterFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastOriginal music by Tristan Learmonth, working under the artist names Peter Schlemihl and Movement 10Check out more from Tristan here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7FLScKGDgF8Wjr9fQAp8SVhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/6fQjF53LQ8mWsQMQjtkD3I?si=xdWUux61T1-oPdtDzbVf1A