The world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Each episode is cut documentary style and set to music and cinematic effects to create an immersive storytelling experience. 'Best travel podcasts 2020'- The Guardian, 'Thrilling Stuff'-Sunday Times, 'Ear Candy for Listeners' - Washington Post
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The Last Dance of the San Bushmen with Documentary Film Maker Ben Cole
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 storytel
Walking the Amazon with Explorer Ed Stafford
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.
Sightless From Sicily to Southern France with Blind Explorer Christopher Venter
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.
Land of the Thunder Dragon: Exploring Bhutan with British Travel Writer of the Year Emma Thomson
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.
The World's Most Dangerous Countries Through New Eyes with You Tube Star Drew Binsky
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.
The Ocean Race: Sailing Around the World with Pro Sailor Mark Towill
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
Horse Trekking in Mongolia with Pro Surfer Jon Rose
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.
Extreme Road Trip: Alaska to Argentina with Overlanding Expert Dan Grec
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
Learn to Free Dive with Adventure Photographer Kellon Spencer
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
Kings of the Yukon: A 2,000-mile Alaskan River Paddle with Best-Selling Author Adam Weymouth
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
Wanderland: on a Vision Quest with Nature Writer Jini Reddy
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.
In the Footsteps of the Anwals through the Indian Himalayas with Travel Writer Juliet Rix
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
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with Visionary Conservationist Praveen Moman
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
Recording a Grammy Nominated Album/DVD on a Round-the-World Journey with 1 Giant Leap's Jamie Catto
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
Climbing Everest with Tima Deryan, the First Lebanese Woman to Summit
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