Area/Topic
Mexico, Culture, Food, Family

Alex Vizcaino
General Manager
Authentic Mexico Tours

I was born and raised in a small city in western Mexico. During my childhood, my parents took me to many different sites in Mexico, and I fell in love with the sense of discovery that can only come with travel.

I got a bachelor's degree in tourism management which included a semester in NZ, and my past experience includes trip planning, operations and management positions at Expedia, TUI, and other nation-wide and international companies.

After the life in the big corp world, I decided to launch Authentic Mexico Tours, a project born out of a passion for Mexico. The real Mexico. The authentic Mexico. I leveraged the wide network of connections and the deep experience in tourism I have, and set off to create unique experiences designed to awe travelers.

I am the proud father of two little girls, aged 8 and 2 years old, who share my wife's and my love of travel - they both took their first "long" trip in the first couple of years of their lives.

https://authenticmexicotours.com/

Summary
Alex Vizcaino, the general manager of Authentic Mexico Tours, shares his love for travel and adventure in Mexico. He grew up road tripping with his family and exploring neighboring states, which sparked his passion for travel. His uncle played a significant role in his love for adventure, taking him on trips to remote and undiscovered parts of Mexico. Alex studied tourism management and eventually started his own tour company, Authentic Mexico Tours. He emphasizes the importance of a mix of planning and serendipity in travel experiences, creating opportunities for unexpected connections and authentic moments. Alex Vizcaino launched Authentic Mexico Tours in February 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to put his plans on hold. However, he used the downtime to polish his product, build relationships with suppliers, and improve his website. When travel restrictions eased, he was able to greet his first guests in February 2021. Alex encourages parents to travel with their young children, as it creates bonding experiences and exposes them to new cultures and foods. He advises those interested in working in the travel industry to find a job with a well-known brand and to choose a niche that aligns with their passion.

Takeaways

• Road tripping with family as a child sparked Alex's love for travel and adventure
• His uncle introduced him to remote and undiscovered parts of Mexico, fostering a deep connection with his country
• Alex studied tourism management and started his own tour company, Authentic Mexico Tours
• He believes in the importance of a mix of planning and serendipity in travel experiences, creating opportunities for authentic moments The COVID-19 pandemic forced Alex Vizcaino to put his tour company, Authentic Mexico Tours, on hold, but he used the downtime to improve his product and build relationships with suppliers.
• Alex encourages parents to travel with their young children, as it creates bonding experiences and exposes them to new cultures and foods.
• For those interested in working in the travel industry, Alex advises finding a job with a well-known brand and choosing a niche that aligns with their passion.
• Alex believes that travel is a beautiful industry and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to start their own tourism business, even if they don't have extensive experience or connections.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Sailing

Jon Bilger
Managing Director
PredictWind Ltd

Olympian, two-time America’s Cup winner, and New Zealand National Champion in multiple classes, PredictWind Founding Director Jon Bilger spent years accessing the very best private wind and marine forecasting tools in the world. Jon founded PredictWind in 2010 to share this potentially life-saving technology with the public at large, and today PredictWind provides the world’s most accurate and reliable forecasting technology to more than a million users. A lifelong competitive yachtsman, Jon lives in Auckland with his wife and two daughters, who share his passion for the ocean and competitive sailing.

https://www.predictwind.com/

Summary
Jon Bilger, from PredictWind, shares his sailing journey and experiences in this episode. He grew up in a sailing family and developed a passion for sailing at a young age. He navigated for Chris Dixon in the 95 America's Cup and later worked with the Swiss team for 10 years. Jon explains the financial and time commitments involved in participating in the America's Cup. He also discusses the motivation behind competing in the America's Cup and the prestige associated with winning. Jon shares his experiences of teaching others to sail and offers advice for those interested in getting into sailing. In this conversation, Jason Elkins and Jon Bilger discuss their experiences with sailing and the importance of weather forecasting in the sport. Jon shares a story about a challenging sailing trip to Hawaii where they had to deal with a broken mast and injuries on board. He also talks about the founding of PredictWind, a weather forecasting company for sailors, and how their technology has helped prevent disasters at sea. They discuss the safety features of PredictWind, including the ability to track commercial vessels and avoid potential collisions. Jon emphasizes the importance of safety in sailing and how technology has made it easier for inexperienced sailors to navigate the seas.

Takeaways

• Growing up in a sailing family can ignite a passion for sailing at a young age.
• Participating in the America's Cup requires a significant financial investment and a multi-year commitment.
• Winning the America's Cup gives the team the opportunity to write the rules for the next event.
• Teaching others to sail can be a rewarding experience and a way to share your passion.
• Joining a local yacht club is a great way to get involved in sailing and learn from experienced sailors. Weather forecasting is crucial for sailors to ensure their safety and plan their routes effectively.
• PredictWind is a weather forecasting company that provides accurate and detailed forecasts for sailors.
• The technology developed by PredictWind has helped prevent disasters at sea and has made sailing safer for both experienced and inexperienced sailors.
• The ability to track commercial vessels through AIS technology is a valuable safety feature for sailors, allowing them to avoid potential collisions.
• Jon Bilger and his team at PredictWind are passionate about keeping people safe at sea and continue to innovate and improve their services.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Womens Trips, Group Travel

Janet Scalzo
Chief Adventurer & Owner
Canyon Calling Adventures for Women

With a passion for female empowerment, an endless sense of curiosity, and over thirty years of experience in the travel industry, Janet found herself innately drawn to Canyon Calling’s mission. She followed the call of her adventuresome spirit and acquired the company back in 2014. She’s been leading it with vigor ever since!

https://www.canyoncalling.com/

Summary

Janet Scalzo, the owner of Canyon Calling Adventures for Women, shares her journey of acquiring the business and the unique experiences they offer to women on active vacations. The company was originally founded by a woman who noticed that female-only groups had a different dynamic and stronger bonding. Janet acquired the business in 2014 and has since expanded it to offer soft adventures, retreats, and international travel. The trips provide a space for women to be themselves, connect with others, and reinvest in themselves. The focus is on empowerment and creating lasting friendships. In this conversation, Janet discusses the concerns and hesitations that some women may have about joining a group trip. She addresses the fear of rooming with strangers by offering single rooms as an option. She also suggests starting with a shorter trip or a soft adventure for those who are unsure or not very fit. Janet emphasizes that the trips are about having fun and encourages anyone with concerns to reach out to her. They also discuss the variety of trips offered, including domestic trips in the US, international trips to places like Greece and Croatia, and trips to South America and Central America. Janet addresses the issue of safety in Mexico and emphasizes the importance of staying together and following organized itineraries. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the transformative power of travel and the importance of embracing new experiences.

Takeaways

• Canyon Calling Adventures for Women offers active vacations for women, providing a space for empowerment and connection.
• The company was originally founded by a woman who noticed the unique dynamic and bonding in female-only groups.
• Janet Scalzo acquired the business in 2014 and has expanded it to offer soft adventures, retreats, and international travel.
• The trips provide an opportunity for women to reinvest in themselves, connect with others, and create lasting friendships. For women who are hesitant about joining a group trip, Janet suggests starting with a shorter trip or a soft adventure and offers single rooms as an option.
• Janet emphasizes that the trips are about having fun and encourages anyone with concerns to reach out to her.
• The trips offered include domestic trips in the US, international trips to places like Greece and Croatia, and trips to South America and Central America.
• Janet addresses the issue of safety in Mexico and emphasizes the importance of staying together and following organized itineraries.
• Travel has the power to open minds, hearts, and eyes, and can be a life-changing experience.
• Even when unexpected or challenging situations arise during travel, they often become great stories and memorable experiences.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Desert Island Survival, Extreme Adventure

Tom Williams
Founder
Desert Island Survival

Tom founded Desert Island Survival a company that maroons people on uninhabited desert islands. He has walked to the north pole and most recently look part in the survival TV show Alone in an effort to survive as long as possible in the Canadian Wilderness.

https://www.desertislandsurvival.com/

Summary
Tom Williams, founder of Desert Island Survival, shares his journey and the concept behind his adventure travel company. Desert Island Survival offers castaway experiences on uninhabited tropical islands, where participants learn survival skills and live out a survival adventure. Tom was inspired by TV shows like Bear Grylls and his desire to be disconnected from society. He started the company in 2017 and has since run about 20 expeditions a year. The trips attract a diverse range of participants, but the typical guest is a mid-30s individual who feels the need for adventure and a break from their regular routine. In this conversation, Tom Williams discusses his experiences with adventure travel and survival training. He talks about the importance of mindset and pushing one's limits to build self-confidence and mental resilience. Tom also shares how his journey has impacted his relationships and personal life. He mentions the risks involved in his expeditions, such as encounters with bears and moose. Additionally, Tom discusses his plans for a new company that focuses on bushcraft adventures and a potential experience called the Primal Reset, which aims to reset the gut biome and improve overall well-being.

Takeaways

• Desert Island Survival offers castaway experiences on uninhabited tropical islands, where participants learn survival skills and live out a survival adventure.
• The company was inspired by TV shows like Bear Grylls and the desire to be disconnected from society.
• The typical guest is a mid-30s individual who feels the need for adventure and a break from their regular routine.
• The trips attract a diverse range of participants, including professionals, students, and even billionaires.
• The experience of living in nature and practicing survival skills can be transformational and lead to personal growth. Pushing your limits helps change your limits and build self-confidence.
• Mindset is crucial in survival situations and adventure travel.
• Building mental resilience is important for overcoming challenges.
• Tom's expeditions involve risks such as encounters with bears and moose.
• Tom's experiences have positively impacted his relationships and personal life.
• Tom plans to launch a new company focusing on bushcraft adventures and a potential experience called the Primal Reset.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Southeast Asia, Sailing, Competitive Rowing, Family Adventure

Rob Hamill
Captain
The Cruising Kiwis

Marathon rowing champion Rob Hamill represented New Zealand in rowing for 16 years. Rob's numerous rowing achievements include a silver medal at the World Championships, Commonwealth gold and a world record on the indoor rowing machine.

Rob rowed for New Zealand at the Atlanta Olympics and published The Naked Rower on how he and Phil Stubbs captured headlines around the world winning the gruelling and inaugural Atlantic Rowing Race in 41 days. He then led teams to successful defences in the next two editions making it a three-peat of victories for New Zealand.

Together with his wife Rachel and their teenage sons they are attempting to circumnavigate this gorgeous planet by sail boat. They have taken their children out of school to educate outside the classroom and learn from nature and new cultures.

They’ve only begun to scratch the surface with plenty more to explore. They hope to inspire others to explore different ways to live and educate while having a truckload of fun along the way.

https://thecruisingkiwis.com/

Summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Rob Hamill, a boat captain and sailor with the Cruising Kiwis. Rob shares his journey of sailing around the world with his family and the challenges and adventures they have encountered. The conversation covers topics such as Rob's childhood introduction to sailing, the tragic loss of his brother, and his own experiences in the Atlantic Rowing Race. Rob emphasizes the importance of following your passions and taking calculated risks in life. Rob Hamill shares his experience of pursuing his passion and overcoming naysayers, including the loss of his brother. He discusses the support he received from his parents and the impact of grief on his mindset. Rob also talks about the financial aspects of his adventures and how he transitioned from in-person speaking engagements to online platforms. He highlights the importance of timing and the enthusiasm of his teenage sons in embracing the sailing lifestyle. Rob emphasizes the sense of community and the joy of exploring different cultures and cuisines along the way. In this conversation, Rob Hamill and Jason Elkins discuss their love for food and different cuisines, as well as their experiences with traveling and exploring new places. They also talk about the importance of exposing children to different cultures and experiences. Rob shares his journey following his brother's footsteps in Cambodia and the emotional impact it had on him. They touch on the challenges and excitement of sailing and the unexpected mishaps that can occur. The conversation ends with a discussion on the value of embracing adventure and avoiding boredom in life.

Takeaways

• Rob Hamill shares his journey of sailing around the world with his family and the challenges they have faced.
• The tragic loss of Rob's brother had a profound impact on his life.
• Rob emphasizes the importance of following your passions and taking calculated risks.
• The Atlantic Rowing Race was a significant milestone in Rob's life, and he learned valuable lessons from the experience. Don't let naysayers discourage you from pursuing your passion.
• Grief can have a profound impact on one's mindset and desire to prove mortality.
• Timing is crucial when embarking on new adventures.
• Transitioning from in-person events to online platforms can be challenging bu

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Ecuador, Adventure Sports

Santiago Granda
Cofounder
Amazing Ecuador DMC

I am passionate about traveling and enjoying the big outdoors. And having the Andes, the Amazon, the Galapagos and the Pacific Coast as my backyard opens limitless possibilities to enjoy nature, wildlife and local encounters all day, everyday.

https://amazingecuador.com.ec/

Summary
Santiago Granda, from Amazing Ecuador, shares his journey into guiding and the importance of connecting with people and communities in adventure tourism. He was inspired by his mother, who informally guided tourists in Ecuador when he was a child. Santiago realized his natural talent for languages and connecting with people, which led him to become a guide. He believes that the best guides are teachers at heart, eager to share their knowledge and experiences with others. Santiago's first experience as a guide was taking a group to Cotopaxi and Otavalo, and he was hooked from then on. In this conversation, Santiago explains the role of a Destination Management Company (DMC) and how Amazing Ecuador serves as a local partner for travel agents around the world. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the local communities and their ways of life when traveling. Santiago also highlights the value of learning a few words of the local language to enhance the travel experience. He discusses the potential negative impacts of mass tourism and the need to keep it under control to preserve the relationships and natural landscapes in the visited communities. Santiago concludes by expressing his love for the tourism industry and the connections it fosters.

Keywords

Santiago Granda, Amazing Ecuador, guiding, adventure tourism, connecting with people, communities, natural talent, languages, teaching, first guiding experience, DMC, local partner, travel agents, respect, local communities, language, mass tourism, negative impacts, connections

Takeaways

• Guiding is about connecting with people and sharing experiences.
• Being a guide is a natural talent that involves teaching and sharing knowledge.
• The outdoors and adventure activities can help with personal growth and overcoming challenges.
• Being present in the moment is important in adventure tourism.
• Connecting with communities and learning from locals enhances the travel experience.
• Adventure tourism is about the connection with people, not just the destination. Destination Management Companies (DMCs) like Amazing Ecuador serve as local partners for travel agents around the world, handling logistics and providing personalized itineraries for travelers.
• Respect for the local communities and their ways of life is crucial when traveling, including being mindful of cultural norms, learning a few words of the local language, and appreciating different ways of doing things.
• Mass tourism can have negative impacts on communities and natural landscapes, so it is important to keep it under control and prioritize sustainable and responsible travel.
• Learning from and connecting with local people and cultures can enhance the travel experience and foster meaningful connections.
• The tourism industry plays a significant role in promoting understanding, empathy, and peace by bringing people from different cultures together.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Canada, BC, Paddleboarding

Pamela Martin
Owner
Blue Jellyfish SUP Adventures

Pam tried paddleboarding for the first time in 2010 and fell in love! She is now is a certified Paddle Canada SUP Basic & Advanced Flatwater Instructor, as well as a Coastal Touring 1 Instructor.

​Pam studied Marine Biology at the University of Guelph & Commercial Photography at Sheridan College. Her love of the water has led her to many aquatic pursuits - canoeing as a child, competitive sailing, sprint canoe/kayak racing and long-distance Outrigger Canoe racing before discovering the sport of Stand Up Paddleboarding.

https://www.bluejellyfishsup.ca/

Summary
Pam Martin from Blue Jellyfish Stand Up Paddle Board Tours shares her journey in the adventure tourism industry. She has always been drawn to the water and pursued a career in marine biology. After discovering stand-up paddleboarding, she started incorporating it into her tours and adventures. When her business partner had to step away due to illness, Pam focused more on lessons and courses, but now she is bringing back the culinary and music components. She plans to expand her business to warm destinations like Costa Rica and Ireland, where she has already explored and paddled. The food scene in Ireland has evolved to include healthy farm-to-table options, and there is a strong emphasis on community and connection. In this conversation, Pam discusses the different types of paddleboards and their pros and cons. She explains that inflatable paddleboards are not a gimmick and that high-quality inflatables can feel just as solid as hardboards. Pam also mentions that inflatables are a great option for those who don't have storage space for a hardboard and are easy to travel with. She emphasizes that paddleboarding is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels, and that it offers a low-impact workout that engages the core. Pam encourages people to give it a try and experience the magic of being out on the water.

Takeaways

• Pam Martin's love for the water and the outdoors led her to pursue a career in adventure tourism, specifically in stand-up paddleboarding.
• She values the connection and community that can be created through adventure tourism experiences.
• After her business partner had to step away, Pam shifted her focus to lessons and courses, but she is now reintroducing the culinary and music components to her tours.
• Pam plans to expand her business to warm destinations like Costa Rica and Ireland, where she has already explored and paddled.
• The food scene in Ireland has evolved to include healthy farm-to-table options, and there is a strong emphasis on community and connection. Inflatable paddleboards are not a gimmick and can feel just as solid as hardboards.
• Inflatables are a great option for those who don't have storage space for a hardboard and are easy to travel with.
• Paddleboarding is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.
• It offers a low-impact workout that engages the core.
• Paddleboarding allows for a magical experience of being out on the water.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Turkey, Anatolia

Aydin Kudu
Travel Designer & Documentary Filmmaker
Turkishmoon

I traveled in my native country, Turkey, on a bike and hitchhiking back in 80s when I was a university student. During those trips I preferred not to reveal that I was local, speaking anything but Turkish, to find out people's approach to travelers. I found people all over the country very welcoming, warm, hospitable, curious about other countries and with no expectation in return. Towards to my graduation I realized this reality becoming a strong motivation to start working in travel. That was back in 1987 and I still enjoy taking guests around Turkey on custom designed various programs.

https://www.turkishmoon.com/

Summary
Aydin Kudu, a travel designer and documentary filmmaker, shares his journey from growing up on a hazelnut farm in Turkey to becoming a travel experience creator. He describes his summers spent in the highlands above the timberline, where his family would take their cows to graze. Aydin emphasizes the importance of elevation in shaping culture and how it influences people's way of life. He also discusses the significance of interacting with locals during travel experiences and how it enhances the overall trip. In this conversation, Aydın Kudu and Jason Elkins discuss their experiences with connecting and conversing with people from different backgrounds. Aydın shares his experiences as a tour guide in Turkey and how he developed a passion for storytelling and documentary filmmaking. They also discuss the importance of personal connections and interactions in the tourism industry. Aydın emphasizes the value of being open to different perspectives and interests of travelers, and the importance of enjoying the experience as a guide. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of human connection and the joy of sharing experiences with others.

Keywords

Aydin Kudu, travel designer, documentary filmmaker, Turkey, hazelnut farm, highlands, timberline, elevation, culture, locals, travel experiences, tourism, tour guiding, documentary filmmaking, human connection, personal interactions

Takeaways

• Aydin Kudu grew up on a hazelnut farm in Turkey and spent his summers in the highlands above the timberline.
• Elevation plays a significant role in shaping culture and people's way of life.
• Interacting with locals during travel experiences is crucial and enhances the overall trip.
• Aydin emphasizes the importance of exploring beyond the main roads and engaging with people in rural areas. Tour guides play a crucial role in creating personal connections and interactions with travelers.
• Being open to different perspectives and interests of travelers can enhance the travel experience.
• Enjoying the experience as a guide can have a positive impact on the travelers' experience.
• Human connection and storytelling are essential elements in the tourism industry.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.