#113 - Ever wondered how a DC lobbyist specializing in defense and technology transitions into a fantasy fiction author? Join me for an extraordinary conversation with Joe Hilliard, also known as J.V. Hilliard, as he reveals how his real-life experiences in politics, diplomacy, and war have enriched his epic fantasy narratives. From the foothills of Pittsburgh to the creative freedom unlocked during the COVID-19 lockdown, Joe shares his journey and the influences that shaped his passion for fantasy worlds, including the inspiration drawn from his paralyzed uncle and lifelong love for Dungeons & Dragons.

Joe delves into the meticulous process of crafting epic fantasy worlds and characters, emphasizing the importance of world-building and planning the story's ending first. He offers insights on preventing writer’s block through detailed outlines, ensuring cohesive storytelling across multiple books. Learn about Joe's transition from writing a standalone novel to creating a full-blown fantasy series, guided by professional editors and a professor’s support. Discover how this initial endeavor blossomed into an expansive career, complete with video games and graphic novels inspired by his series.

Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit as Joe discusses his ventures, from owning magazines to adapting his book series into augmented and virtual reality video games. Hear about the challenges and excitement of translating his stories into various nonlinear mediums, and the creative process of envisioning his books as movies. Joe also shares the significance of building an author’s brand and audience, treating his writing career as a startup business. Tune in for a captivating episode filled with adventure, risk-taking, and the art of storytelling, perfect for anyone fascinated by the intersection of real-world experience and fantasy fiction.

To learn more about Joe and his books check out www.jvhilliard.com or on Instagram @jvhilliardbooks. If you are interested in getting one of his books you can find them here at Dragon Moon Press.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#112 - Can financial constraints truly hinder your wanderlust? Join us as we chat with Linda King, the Smart Travelista, who proves that travel and savings can go hand-in-hand. Linda, originally from Sydney and now based in Melbourne, shares her unique blend of travel expertise and financial savvy. Her early experiences, including a life-changing four-month road trip across Australia, ignited her passion for exploration. Linda's story shows that adventure is possible for everyone, regardless of budget.

Experience the thrill of adventure through Linda's eyes as she recounts her childhood travel tales and the impact of those journeys on her personal growth. From traveling with her family across Australia to an unforgettable solo journey to Miami during a hurricane, Linda opens up about the resilience and readiness required for such adventures. Her reflections on shared travel experiences and their transformative power will resonate with every travel lover out there.

Discover the essence of solo travel and the joy of helping others from someone who's mastered both. Linda discusses the freedom and self-reliance that come with exploring alone, sharing details from a particularly memorable trip to Miami. She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and preparation, especially when faced with unexpected challenges like hurricanes. Wrapping up, Linda's thrilling tales of surviving a hurricane, an engine failure on a flight, and a brief detainment in China underscore the unpredictable nature of travel and the incredible stories it creates. Tune in to get inspired for your next budget-friendly adventure!

You can learn more about Linda by visiting her website www.thesmarttravelista.com and checking her out on Instagram @thesmarttravelista.

As always be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and say hi.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#111 - Curious what it’s like to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for crystal-clear waters and remote island adventures? Imagine living on a catamaran while exploring the untouched beauty of French Polynesia and the Bahamas. Michael and Cassandre from Journey of MC join me to share their incredible stories and the life-changing impact of their off-the-beaten-path travels.

From serendipitous meetings in Chicago and globe-trotting escapades, Michael and Cassandre recount their journey filled with unexpected challenges and memorable moments. Listen as they describe their time navigating the pristine Exuma islands, the thrilling hunts for hidden tiki statues, and the cultural encounters in the San Blas Islands. Their tales of resilience and flexibility offer a treasure trove of insights for aspiring travelers balancing work and wanderlust.

Discover the magic of Bora Bora's glowing waters and the serene Valley of Hakeui on Nucahiva as Michael and Cassandre paint vivid pictures of their favorite destinations. Their humorous anecdotes, like navigating shoulder-high grass in search of a tiki statue, highlight the unpredictability and joy of exploration. Dive into their world and get inspired to plan your very own adventure, no matter how unconventional it might be.

Be sure and follow Michael and Cassandre on Instagram @journeyofmc. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get to know me and my guests just a little better.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#110 - What happens when a family decides to pause their conventional lives and embark on a year-long global adventure? Margaret Sullivan joins the podcast to share the captivating story of her family's extraordinary decision to take a gap year and explore the world with their young children. From corporate marketing in Lower Manhattan to fishing for piranhas in the Amazon, Margaret’s journey is filled with memorable moments that promise to inspire and entertain. Discover how this transformative trip reshaped their family dynamics and left them with a treasure trove of stories and lessons.

Balancing a career and family life in bustling New York City, Margaret and her husband decided to take a leap of faith. The challenges of planning and executing a year of constant travel with small children were daunting, but the rewards were immense. Margaret shares the highs and lows of their travels, including the everyday logistics and the unexpected joys of being together as a family 24/7. From hilarious misadventures to heartwarming connections, Margaret’s storytelling will have you laughing and reflecting on the nature of family and the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone.

Join us as we explore the profound growth and newfound perspectives gained from navigating different cultures and languages. Margaret's anecdotes, like the unforgettable experience of trick-or-treating in Tasmania, reveal how they embraced their vulnerabilities and celebrated their children’s resilience. The journey not only strengthened their family bonds but also led them to reassess their life priorities. Listen in for practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a sneak peek into Margaret’s book, "Following the Sun: Tales (and Fails) from a Year Around the World with Our Kids," capturing the essence of their life-changing adventure.

You can find Margaret's book on Amazon here. I would also encourage you to check out her website www.margaretbensfieldsullivan.com and Instagram page @sullivanfamilyadventure for more information about her book and travels as a family.

Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi!

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#109 - Kirsten Rudberg’s journey across the Camino de Santiago offers more than just tales of physical endurance; it’s a deep dive into the realms of solitude, personal growth, and the magic of unexpected generosity. Join us as Kirsten, a panentheist with a Master’s of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology, shares her transformative pilgrimage experience, shedding light on the profound lessons learned along the ancient path. Her stories reveal how embracing the unknown and facing fears head-on can lead to remarkable inner growth and a renewed faith in humanity.

But Kirsten's journey isn’t confined to the Camino. Growing up overseas with a father who built hydroelectric dams in developing countries, Kirsten developed a unique worldview that fuels her creative endeavors today. Whether she's podcasting, screenwriting, or crafting the animated series "Murder of Two," Kirsten’s diverse background and the challenges she faced adjusting to life back in the States have deeply influenced her work. She unpacks these experiences with humor and grace, offering listeners a fresh perspective on resilience and creativity.

This episode also delves into Kirsten's reflections on overcoming childhood adversities, including her parents' divorce and the cultural dissonance of returning to the U.S. These experiences have shaped her understanding of adventure as not only extraordinary journeys but also daily encounters that push us beyond our comfort zones. From navigating the Spanish coast’s challenging terrain to starting her own podcast, Kirsten's story is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown, meeting new people, and finding joy in solitude. Tune in to be inspired by her insights on personal growth, creative expression, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

You can find out more from Kirsten by visiting her website www.bytesizedblessings.com or checking her out on Instagram @bytesizedblessingspod.

Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi. I would love to hear from you. If you have anyone you think I should have on the show or you would like to be on the show please email the show jake@journeywithjake.net and tell me why.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#108 - What drives someone to leave behind the chaos of their home city and embark on a global adventure? Chris Donaldson, an intrepid 65-year-old motorcyclist from Belfast, Northern Ireland, shares his incredible journey of riding a Moto Guzzi Le Mans around the world. From the conflict-ridden streets of Belfast to navigating the deserts of Sudan, Chris's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enriching power of unplanned detours. Tune in as we explore his decision to choose South Africa over Australia due to geopolitical turmoil, and how these unexpected changes crafted an adventure full of life lessons.

The thrill of riding a motorcycle has roots in Chris's early years, where the simple joy of pedaling a bicycle evolved into a passion for motorized bikes. We delve into his teenage years spent repairing a scrap Bantam, contrasting the mechanical simplicity of older bikes with today's digital complexity. Reflecting on life in Belfast during the 70s and 80s, Chris reveals how growing up amidst violence pushed him towards a life of global exploration, highlighting the broader impact of his upbringing on his outlook and adventures.

This episode takes you through Chris's reflections on aging and adventure, emphasizing that life’s challenges—whether navigating the Sahara or dealing with economic downturns—can lead to profound growth. Chris talks about the importance of self-reliance and resilience and how these traits have shaped his journey. We also discuss his book "Going the Wrong Way" and his ongoing adventures, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with tales of travel, family, and the undying spirit of adventure.

To learn more about Chris or order his book check out his website www.chrisdonaldson.world and check him out on Instagram @goingthewrongway_book.

I would love to hear from you. Send me an email jake@journeywithjake.net or reach out to me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#107 - Embark on a photographic odyssey as I sat down with the remarkable Amber, whose lens has turned elopements into visual sonnets against Earth's most awe-inspiring canvases. Once a travel agent, Amber's trajectory to becoming an elopement photographer is a vibrant narrative of love, adventure, and the chance encounters that can shape our destinies. As she recounts her journey, your heart will travel through the quiet grandeur of Santorini's cliffs and the tranquil shores of Bora Bora, places where vows are whispered and forever is sealed in a frame.

In this intimate conversation, the allure of an elopement for the introspective adventurer becomes clear, and Amber's eye for immortalizing these moments elevates each story to a masterpiece of memory. She imparts wisdom for those drawn to the serenity of such intimate unions, painting a picture of the profound connections and experiences that come alive through her photography. And for anyone captivated by the idea of an elopement or just a fan of captivating love stories set against nature's majesty, Amber's Instagram account, @zephyretluna, stands as a gateway to the world through her perspective—a world where every snapshot beckons you to live your own adventure.

Please check out Amber's work by visiting her website www.zephyr-et-luna.com and her Instagram page @zephyretluna.

To get to know me and my guests better please follow me on Instagram @journeywithajakepodcast. Please send me a note and say hi. I would love to hear from you.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.

#106 - Embrace the pulse of perseverance and youthful ambition through the experiences of Kambrie Wilkinson, a trail-blazing runner ready to conquer the peaks of Utah and the tracks of collegiate competition. My conversation with Kambrie isn't just about her swift strides on the racecourse; it's a heart-to-heart on how a mother's nudge led her from a dabbling multi-sport athlete to a committed runner whose story is as inspiring as the mountain trails she loves. Together, we unwrap the nuances of what it means to grow with a sport—discovering the joys and shaping influences running offers against the rugged backdrop of Utah's landscape.

Every runner knows the stomach's flutter before the starting signal, but not every runner learns to harness it as Kambrie has. Our dialogue traverses the inner battles and team alliances that stitch the fabric of distance running. Beyond strategies like visualization, we reveal the cultural tapestry and lingo that differentiate the raw, natural allure of cross country from the calculated rhythm of track events. Kambrie's tale is a reminder of the beauty found in the shared grit and the unexpected friendships forged at the finish line.

As Kambrie stands on the cusp of her college journey at Utah Tech University, she shares the proactive steps and heartfelt decisions in the college recruitment dance—a testimony to her drive and determination. She's not just running towards an athletic career; she envisions a future rich with education, coaching, and adventures that span the globe. So whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer curiously eyeing those laced-up shoes, Kambrie's chronicle, illuminated on Instagram @runnerkam, invites you to explore the pathways where ambition meets passion. Join us for an episode that's not just about the race, but about the enduring spirit that carries us through life's marathons.

Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.