#103 - When Scott Gurian, a journalist with a knack for embedding himself in the marrow of the world's less-trod paths, tells the story of the Mongol Rally, you can't help but lean in closer. I had the pleasure of peeling back the layers of Scott’s 11,000-mile trek in a vehicle that's barely more at home on the vast steppes than a fish on a bicycle. His voice brings the landscapes alive, from the UK to the heart of Mongolia, regaling us with the kind of cultural exchanges that turn travelers into storytellers and storytellers into the sort of friends who make the global seem local.

As Scott and I chatted he found himself reflecting on his own transformation from an adventure-averse high schooler to a globe-trotting journalist. The discussion meandered through the backstories that shape a journey, like reporting on Mexico's Zapatista movement and the brotherly bond forged over 18,000 miles of open road. Scott's stories aren't just pins on a map; they're reminders that the world is wide, and the roads we choose can change us, challenge us, and charge us with tales worth telling.

Our conversation took unexpected turns, as all great journeys do, touching on Scott's personal quests—from seeking a healing stone in Peru to the introspective throes of an ayahuasca ceremony. He shares his ongoing aspirations and the cultural connections that continue to beckon him across continents. And for those of you with itching feet, Scott's insights are a siren call to embrace the spontaneous, the serendipitous, and the frankly astonishing warmth and hospitality that can be found in the unlikeliest of places. So, wherever you are, buckle up and let's hit the road with a true maestro of the map, Scott Gurian.

You can find more about Scott and his podcast Far From Home by visiting www.farfromhomepodcast.org or checking out his Instagram @farfromhomepodcast.

Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. I would love to connect with 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.

#102 - Imagine the ground beneath your feet giving way, plunging you into darkness. That's how Dan McQueen's world changed when a brain hemorrhage in 2014 left him grappling for the basic threads of life. Join me as I sit down with Dan in an episode that promises to grip your heart with a story of indomitable courage. Together, we navigate the jagged path of Dan's recovery, where every step, word, and smile became a milestone in his extraordinary journey. His approach to turning rehabilitation into a game shows us the profound power of positivity in the face of pain.

Skiing down Grouse Mountain might seem like an everyday activity for some, but for Dan McQueen, it was a summit of triumph, a pinnacle that marked his return to life's passions after a grueling decade-long hiatus. This episode is not just about the celebration of physical milestones; it's a deeper revelation of how setting audacious goals can ignite the human spirit. Dan's emotional reunion with the nurse who saw him at his most vulnerable, now witnessing his victorious descent, punctuates our conversation with a raw, powerful testament to the resilience within us all.

Ending on a note that resonates beyond the personal, Dan's transition into motivational speaking magnifies the impact of his narrative. It's a message that echoes through hospitals and into the halls of the Canadian Bureau of Speakers—championing the idea that the lens through which we view our world often holds the key to transforming it. As we wrap up our time together, Dan reminds us that his story, as remarkable as it is, serves as a mirror reflecting the untapped potential that lies dormant within each of us, waiting for the spark of inspiration to ignite.

Be sure and check out Dan by visiting his website www.macqueendan.com. You can also check him out on Instagram @macqueendan. While you are at it if you have not done so please give me a follow 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.

#101 - Embark with me on a narrative voyage where Carol Springer, the vibrant voice behind the 'Where Next' podcast, captures our imagination with tales of her ever-changing journey through life's seasons. From the snowy frontiers of Minnesota to the sun-kissed peaks of Colorado, we traverse her personal atlas, unpacking the dreams that unfold as the nest starts to empty. Carol's spirit is as infectious as her stories are inspiring, painting a vivid picture of anticipation for her son's potential baseball stardom and her own future exploits.

Turning the pages of our life's book, we find ourselves leafing through the chapters that have crafted our hunger for exploration and the experiences that beckon us beyond our comfort zones. Carol shares her mosaic of adventures, from the thrill of blackwater rafting down under to the reflective charm of local Colorado getaways, mapping out how our zest for life adapts with each act. Carol and I muse over the delicate interplay of raising families while nurturing the wanderlust that whispers sweet promises of exotic locales like Hawaii and Thailand, proving that the spirit of adventure knows no age.

As the conversation weaves through the dynamics of work, travel, and the magnetic pull of family, Carol's insights offer a tantalizing glimpse into the life of a business owner with itchy feet and a heart rooted in home. Whether it's embracing the cultural tapestry of a nearby Buddhist temple or mulling over the practicalities of a future in bustling cities, her experiences are a compass guiding us toward our own travel aspirations. Together, we celebrate the notion that every ending is simply the prelude to another grand journey, inviting listeners to consider where life's next chapter might take them.

You can follow Carol and Where Next Podcast on Instagram @wherenextpodcast.

Be sure and give me a follow 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.

#100 - When you hit a hundred of anything, it's worth throwing a party, and that's exactly what we're doing here on Journey with Jake as we ring in our 100th episode! Join your host Jake (thats me) and my effervescent guest host Rick Bamford, as we stride down memory lane, reliving the belly laughs, the slip-ups, and the heart-tugging stories that have painted the vibrant canvas of this podcast. It's a chance to bask in the shared human experience with stories that span from the quaint streets of Pinedale, Wyoming to the awe-inspiring peaks of Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Our celebration wouldn't be complete without revisiting that spark of wanderlust that keeps our hearts yearning for the next adventure. So, we've reconnected with some of my past guests including Cole Young, Dave Preston, Matt and Cheryls Schoss from Were in the Rockies, Daniela from @monorailmagic_, and Shelby Mann from Ground Up Adventures.

It's not just about where we've been; it's about the people who've journeyed with us. This centenary episode is drenched in gratitude for our listeners, the guests who've brought their stories to our stage, and the serendipitous connections that have blossomed into invaluable friendships. Our tapestry is rich and far from finished. So, whether you're tuning in from Germany, Australia, or anywhere in between, know that your companionship fuels this show. Here's to the next hundred episodes—each step, each story, each shared moment engrained in the soul of Journey with Jake.

To follow along with these past guests see their Instagram and website information below.

Matt and Cheryl Schoss - Instagram @wereintherockies website www.wereintherockies.com and YouTube @WereintheRockies

Cole Young - Instagram @the_cole_young

Dave Preston - Instagram @davidpre.me

Daniela - Instagram @monorailmagic_ and YouTube @monorailmagic_

Shelby Mann - Instaram @groundupadventures website www.groundupadventuresco.com and YouTube @groundupadventures

Rick Bamford - Instagram @lord_rickster

And as always give me a follow 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.

#099 - Embark on a transformative journey with me as I sit down with Colleen Avis, a masterful storyteller and coach who intertwines the sacredness of spaces with personal growth. Her book "Sacred Spaces," reflects the profound impact our environments have on our well-being, and through our discussion, we discover how vulnerability can be a powerful tool for connection and inspiration. Sharing our own stories, we illuminate the path from fear to joy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the spaces around us as mirrors of our inner world.

Venture into the heart of personal stories with the collaborative book project "Sacred Spaces Subtle Shifts for Mind, Body, and Home Transformation." Each narrative within this collection offers not only a tale of resilience but also practical tools for empowerment. Colleen opens up about overcoming personal adversity, learning from her mother's unwavering spirit in the face of financial hardship. These intimate revelations foster a sense of community, underscoring the belief that our shared experiences can become a wellspring of collective healing.

In this episode, we explore the nuanced yet powerful influence of small mindset shifts, capable of leading to profound life changes. Colleen and I discuss strategies for fostering positivity, such as embracing life's little victories and cultivating curiosity about the world around us. The episode also delves into personal transformation, showcasing the evolution of identity and the power of writing as a tool to engage with our deepest emotions. Join us as we take you through an inspiring session filled with insights on self-discovery, personal growth, and the significance of crafting spaces that resonate with your truest self.

To get Colleen's wellness kit at no charge please visit her website here. If you would like connect with Colleen you can reach out to her here and make an appointment. If you would like to order her book, Sacred Spaces, you can find that by clicking here.

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.

#098 - Imagine facing a life-altering illness, fighting for every breath, and being haunted by the possibility of never waking up from sleep. This was the reality for Ben Lawson, a fitness enthusiast whose world was upended by a leukemia diagnosis. Through his story, we traverse the uncertain terrains of health and resilience. Ben candidly recounts his intense battle, from the fear that gripped him during sleepless nights to the physical challenges that tested his resolve. His journey offers a raw look at the human spirit's capacity to endure and ultimately triumph in the face of adversity.

As we grapple with the emotional weight of Ben's experience, we're taken to the depths of his struggle during the peak of a global pandemic. The added isolation of COVID-19 protocols meant facing chemotherapy and life-threatening complications with limited support. Hear how the simple error of a hospital form caused Ben to reevaluate his decision about life-saving measures, revealing the complexities of navigating a health crisis amidst unprecedented times. His reflection on this ordeal is not just a personal narrative but a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.

While Ben's tale is one of survival, it's also about reinvention. Post-recovery, he discusses the profound loneliness that accompanied his journey back to health, the societal expectations placed on men to mask their vulnerabilities, and the determination to rebuild his life and business. Celebrating his recent marriage and professional achievements, Ben's story is not solely a testament to personal fortitude but an inspiration to those facing their own battles. Join us as we uncover the strength within adversity and the incredible journey of a man who refused to be reduced to a statistic.

Be sure and check out Ben on Instagram @lawlessfitness and see first hand his journey. Be sure and follow me on Instagram @journeywithakepodcast and get a closer look at my guests and yours truly.

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.

#097 - As my voice soldiers on through the remnants of a cold, I sit down with adventurer and author Edward Olu, the spirited soul behind the children's book "Around the World in Eight Dives: Scuba Diving All Seven Continents." Our conversation travels from the depths of Edward's Nigerian origins to his life today in Southern California, capturing the ethos of resilience and human spirit. He's not just a man who's conquered underwater realms on every continent; he's also a storyteller whose life lessons and pursuit of fear's edge have reshaped his worldview, inspiring all to seek out their next chapter of discovery, be it global or in the comfort of your neighborhood.

Adventure, Edward argues, isn't reserved for the adrenaline junkies alone - it's woven into the fabric of our everyday encounters, from the skateboarding trials of his kids to the novel tastes at a local farmer's market. This episode peels back the layers of what it means to live adventurously, encouraging us to embrace the unknown and the joy it can bring into our lives. As Edward shares his tales of diving into icy waters and the preparations that come with extreme cold water diving, it's clear that the richness of life is not found at the surface, but often in the depths where we challenge ourselves the most.

Looking to the horizon, Edward envisions his future dives as selective masterpieces, as we talk about his eagerness to dive into the world of freediving and share the magic of the oceans with his children. Our riveting exchange underlines the importance of choice in our quests and the serenity that comes from a balanced approach to the thrill of adventure. With the 100th episode on the horizon, Edward's eloquence and passion for life remind us all that it's the journey that defines us, not just the snapshots of our destinations. Join us for this extraordinary episode, where the spirit of exploration knows no bounds.

Be sure and follow Edward Olu on Instagram @ed.olu. You can also give me a follow on Instagram as well to learn more about my guests and who I am. Check it out @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.

#096 - As the sun kissed the Arizona desert where Annalise Castillo's love for the natural world was nurtured, we embark on an exploration of her adventurous spirit and dedication to self-care. Annalise, a yogi with an insatiable appetite for adventure, shares with us her transformative journey from the dusty trails of Tucson to the serene beaches of the Marshall Islands. Her stories of wild dingoes and escapades paint a vivid picture of a life woven with the threads of exploration, laughter, and an enduring bond with the great outdoors.

Strap in for a road trip down the east coast of Australia that promises nothing short of exhilaration. Annalise takes us from Cairns to Melbourne, revealing the highs and lows that come with the territory of spontaneous travel. From camping under starlit skies to close encounters with the country's iconic wildlife, her narrative is a hearty reminder of the freedom found in the embrace of the unknown and the joy of chasing the horizon. Alongside her, we learn that the most unexpected detours often lead to the richest experiences.

Finally, Ananalise opens up about the deeply personal realm of self-discovery through the lens of yoga and wellness. Her candid recollections of overcoming self-doubt and her transformative path to becoming a yoga instructor are lessons in the art of self-love and growth. She extends an invitation to awaken within, as she details the exhilaration of planning her first yoga retreat in Micronesia, a journey that promises to be as much about the inner voyage as the outer. Join us for an episode that is a celebration of life's meandering paths and the revelations they hold.

To learn more about Annalise please follow her on Instagram @annalisemarie_wellness. You can follow my adventures and learn more about my guests by following me @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.

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.