Authentic Stories of Adventure, Exploration & The Natural World. To Inspire Your Next Adventure, Big or Small.
An inspiring Podcast for Adventurers, Explorers, Outdoors People and those curious about the natural world.
From the extremes of polar expeditions, intense deserts, humid jungles, ocean depths, the summits of the world to the everyman or women's everyday local adventures.
There is something for every adventurer and outdoor enthusiast on this show.
Be inspired and become a part of a global community of like minded explorers, adventurers and those curious about the natural world.
Every Episode Delivers on 3 promises:
· Captivating Story or Experience · Call to Adventure - From our guest to you! · Pay It Forward - A worthy cause or project, from our guest to you
If you want adventure stories, inspiration and the opportunity to connect and give back then please give us a listen AND a follow.
And If you enjoyed any of our episodes please leave a written review.
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Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.
In this episode of The Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson sits down with wilderness expert and Alone Season Nine finalist, Karie Lee Knoke. Karie takes us on a journey from her suburban childhood to living off-grid in a 30-foot yurt in Northern Idaho. She shares her incredible transformation from a corporate IT professional to a wilderness survivalist and teacher, offering insights into her time on Alone and her deep spiritual connection with nature. Discover how Karie’s passion for the wilderness led her to create the Sacred Cedars Wilderness School, where she teaches the art of sacred living and survival skills.
Key Takeaways:
Childhood Roots: Karie’s love for the outdoors began in her suburban neighborhood, where she spent afternoons exploring green spaces and playing in tree forts.
Career Shift: Despite a successful career in IT, Karie felt drawn to the wilderness, leading her to leave the corporate world and pursue her passion for nature and survival skills.
Wilderness Survival: Karie’s experience on Alone was both a survival challenge and a spiritual journey, where she connected deeply with the land and tested her skills.
Sacred Cedars Wilderness School: Karie founded this school to teach others wilderness skills and the “art of sacred living,” blending physical survival techniques with spiritual practices.
Positive Mindset: Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for survival, as it helps manage energy and resilience, something Karie practiced throughout her time in the wild.
Call to Adventure:
“Do your dream. Follow your heart. You might have some crazy dream that nobody understands, but if it’s your passion, the universe will back you up.”
“Get out of your mind, because that’s when the universe is going to back you up.”
“If you’re living from the heart and living your dream, your passion, which is all about the heart, everything around you will support you.”
Pay It Forward:
Support Scholarship Funds: Help others pursue their dreams by contributing to scholarship funds.
Support Nonprofit Schools: Many nonprofit wilderness schools operate on minimal funds; supporting them helps children and others find their passion.
Featured Guest:
Karie Lee Knoke is a wilderness survival expert, energy medicine practitioner, and founder of Sacred Cedars Wilderness School. She gained national recognition as a finalist on Alone Season Nine, where she survived 75 days in the harsh wilderness of Labrador, Canada. Karie’s deep connection with nature and her passion for teaching others to live in harmony with the land is at the core of her work.
In this enlightening recap episode of The Adventure Diaries, Chris Watson sits revisits the Call to Adventure & Pay It Forward segments with Hazen Audel, the charismatic explorer and host of Primal Survivor. Hazen shares his passion for rewilding, the importance of ecotourism, and his experiences in some of the world's most unique natural environments. From his backyard to the vast landscapes of Ecuador and the Great Rift Valley, Hazen offers listeners a fresh perspective on how we can all contribute to conservation and reconnect with nature.
Key Topics Discussed:
Rewilding: Hazen introduces the concept of rewilding, emphasizing the importance of restoring natural habitats even in our own backyards. He shares personal anecdotes about creating safe spaces for wildlife and how this practice has shaped his children's understanding of nature.
Ecotourism: Hazen encourages travelers to explore beyond the popular destinations like Costa Rica, advocating for visits to lesser-known regions in South and Central America. He highlights the positive impact ecotourism can have on local communities and wildlife conservation.
Safe Wildlife Corridors: Reflecting on his time in Africa, Hazen discusses the critical need for safe migration routes for animals, particularly elephants, and the efforts of organizations like Space for Giants to protect these corridors.
Supporting Conservation: Hazen expresses his support for the Jane Goodall Foundation and other organizations focused on education and conservation, particularly in regions rich in biodiversity.
Memorable Quotes:
"We have the same power to make the world better than how we found it... It’s about creating spaces where wildlife can thrive, even in our own backyards."
"Go to Ecuador, go to these other places in South and Central America outside of Costa Rica... Show the local people that we care about their natural resources."
Ian Finch: 1200 Mile Expedition On The Cherokee Trail of Tears
Season 2 · Episode 10
Thursday, July 18, 2024 • Duration 52:01
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. In this episode of The Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson chats with renowned adventure photographer and expedition guide, Ian Finch. Ian shares his journey from Royal Marines commando to celebrated adventure photographer, known for his respect for diverse cultures and commitment to environmental awareness.
Topics Covered:
Ian’s early influences and love for the outdoors
Transition from the Royal Marines to adventure photography
Breakthrough moments in Ian’s photography career
The importance of capturing authentic cultural stories
Significant expeditions including the Cherokee Trail of Tears
Environmental projects like moose conservation with the Grand Portage Band of the Chippewa
Ian’s company, Walk Wild, and its mission to connect people with nature
Practical advice on finding adventure close to home
Key Takeaways:
Ian Finch’s love for the outdoors started with early fishing and hunting trips with his father.
His creative side—art, writing, and photography—shaped his career.
Time in the Marines equipped him with valuable expedition skills.
A chance encounter with a Brooklyn photographer was pivotal for his photography career.
Recent projects focus on environmental awareness and the impact of climate change on wildlife.
Walk Wild offers guided walks and workshops to help people connect with nature.
Call to Adventure:
“Adventure doesn't need to be grand. Doesn't have to be over months and it doesn't have to be over weeks. I think it's all about immersion. I think it's about going into an environment that maybe you don't know so much about, something where you can go and you can learn.”
Graham Zimmerman (Recap): Building Blocks Of Adventure Experiences
Season 2 · Episode 9
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 • Duration 03:10
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. In this episode of Adventure Diaries, Chris Watson sits down with renowned adventurer Graham Zimmerman to explore the true essence of adventure. Graham shares his insights on embracing challenges, the importance of meaningful experiences, and how to build adventures that resonate deeply with our personal values. He also highlights his involvement with Protect Our Winters (POW) and the vital role this organization plays in driving systemic environmental change. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone looking for inspiration, this episode promises to ignite your sense of adventure and purpose.
Key Takeaways:
Adventure is about challenges, beautiful places, and beloved companions.
Focus on the building blocks of meaningful experiences.
Protect Our Winters (POW) is a vital organization for systemic environmental change.
Support POW by engaging with local chapters and contributing time or money.
Call to Adventure:
Go to the mountains to challenge yourself.
Engage in beautiful places with people you adore.
Focus on meaningful goals beyond achievements or social media posts.
Build adventures based on the essential experiences you seek.
Pursue activities for the right reasons, whether climbing or playing chess outdoors.
Quote from Graham Zimmerman: "Think about the building blocks that are crucial to creating the spirit, the experience that is going to get you what you need and utilize that as the foundation that you build from in terms of how and where and why you build adventure in your life. And I'm not going to tell you to go climbing if your goal is to go and play chess outside with somebody that you love. Great. Do it. But just make sure that you're doing it for the right reasons."
Graham Zimmerman Epic First Ascents & Searching For Balance Amongst Mountains
Season 1 · Episode 9
Thursday, July 11, 2024 • Duration 01:03:40
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. In this episode of the Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson sits down with acclaimed climber and author Graham Zimmerman. From his early days, climbing in The Cascade, New Zealand and to conquering the mighty peaks of the Karakoram range, Graham shares his incredible journey, balancing life on the edge, and his passionate advocacy for climate action. Discover the philosophy behind his "100-year plan" and how quiet moments in the mountains have shaped his biggest life decisions.
Graham's first challenging yet transformative climbing experience.
Insights from his book, A Fine Line, on balancing climbing with life.
Harrowing yet exhilarating climb of Mount Bradley.
Strategic and technical journey to Link Sar in the Karakoram range.
The importance of the "100-year plan" for sustainable, long-term decision-making.
The role of quiet moments in the mountains for clarity and major life decisions.
Graham's commitment to climate advocacy through Protect Our Winters.
Call to Adventure:
"Do something that challenges you, that is in a beautiful place, and where you are going with people that you adore."
"Think about the building blocks that are crucial to creating the spirit of the experience that is going to get you what you need."
"If your goal is to go and play chess outside with somebody that you love, great. Do it. But just make sure that you're doing it for the right reasons."
Jonathan Kingston (Recap): Follow Your Curiosity & Explore More
Season 2 · Episode 8
Tuesday, July 9, 2024 • Duration 03:25
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. Bonus Episode Summary: Host Chris Watson sits down with renowned National Geographic photographer Jonathan Kingston. They dive deep into Jonathan’s adventures, discussing the importance of following one's curiosity, his passion for maritime archaeology, and his dedication to ocean preservation. Jonathan shares captivating stories from his explorations and offers insightful advice for aspiring adventurers.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Jonathan Kingston:
Learn about Jonathan’s background and his journey to becoming a National Geographic photographer.
Call to Adventure:
Jonathan shares his philosophy: “Follow your curiosity, follow your excitement.”
Discussion on how excitement and curiosity guide his adventures.
Memorable Adventures:
Jonathan recounts some of his most thrilling experiences, from maritime archaeology assignments to cliffside stories.
Pay It Forward:
Highlight of the Submerged Archaeological Conservancy International (SACI) and how listeners can get involved.
Jonathan's advocacy for ocean preservation and maritime archaeology.
Future Plans:
Upcoming trip to the Solomon Islands for a diving expedition.
Jonathan’s excitement about new adventures and what’s next on his agenda.
Staying Connected:
Where to follow Jonathan Kingston: Instagram @JonathanKingston.
Jonathan's approach to sharing his work and stories on social media.
Quotes from the Episode:
Jonathan Kingston: National Geographic Photographer on Wildlife, Cultures & Maritime Mysteries
Season 2 · Episode 8
Thursday, July 4, 2024 • Duration 59:55
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. Exploring the World Through the Lens of Jonathan Kingston's, a long standing contributing photographer for National Geographic
In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Jonathan Kingston, a celebrated National Geographic photographer. From his high school beginnings to underwater adventures and cultural storytelling, Jonathan's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we explore his path, challenges, and the passion that drives him.
Key Takeaways:
Jonathan Kingston's passion for photography started in high school.
He took a gap year on the Crow Indian Reservation, which ignited his love for storytelling.
A pivotal moment in his career was meeting the editor-in-chief of National Geographic in Hawaii.
Jonathan has balanced diverse interests, including rock climbing and underwater photography.
He emphasizes following one's curiosity and excitement as a path to success.
Call to Adventure:
"Follow your curiosity, follow your excitement, you know, ask yourself, what's exciting you right now."
"There's a reason when I feel that tingle of excitement, there's something calling me to that."
"To honor that, to listen to that, to give that excitement time to really speak to you and say yes to it."
"Don't say no. Don't find an excuse to not do it. Find an excuse to say yes to that curiosity."
Pay It Forward:
"I would love if anyone does have excitement for ocean preservation for maritime archaeology. Go to the SACI website, the Submerged Archaeological Conservancy International. It's saci.org."
Alastair Humphreys (Recap): Take on Your Local Seven Summits
Season 1 · Episode 7
Tuesday, July 2, 2024 • Duration 05:55
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. Exploring Local Adventures and Environmental Responsibility
In this episode, the Alastair Humphreys encourages listeners to embark on a local exploration challenge dubbed the 'Local Seven Summits' - climbing the seven highest points near their homes. The discussion moves on to highlight organizations like Right to Roam, Trash Free Trails, and Take the Jump, each promoting environmental responsibility and greater access to nature. The guest stresses the importance of responsible roaming to ensure the preservation of natural spaces. Lastly, ways to follow the guest's adventures and access their resources are provided.
It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. In this episode of the Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson welcomes renowned adventurer and author Alastair Humphreys. Alastair shares his incredible journey from a conventional teaching career to embarking on some of the world's most thrilling adventures. From cycling around the world to rowing across the Atlantic, Alastair's stories are filled with inspiration and insight. He also discusses his latest book "Local," which encourages finding adventure close to home. Join us as we dive into Alastair's grand expeditions and the wonder of local exploration.
Key Topics Discussed:
Introduction to Alastair Humphreys:
Alastair's background and transition from teaching to adventuring.
The inspiration behind his global adventures.
Cycling Around the World:
Alastair's journey through 60 countries over nearly five years.
The challenges of navigating without modern technology.
The Mental Challenges of Adventure:
Coping with loneliness and finding solace in human connections.
The unexpected twists and serendipity in his travels.
Rowing the Atlantic and Walking Through India:
The physical and mental challenges of rowing across the Atlantic.
Walking along the Kaveri River in India and the simplicity of slow travel.
The Violin Adventure in Spain:
Inspired by Laurie Lee, Alastair busked his way across Spain with a violin.
The unique experiences and challenges of this adventure.
Microadventures:
Making adventure accessible with short, local trips.
David Abel (Recap): Hiking To Waterfalls In Dominican Republic
Season 2 · Episode 6
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 • Duration 04:58
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It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone. David's Call to Adventure and Commitment to Change
In this episode, David shares his enthusiasm for adventure, particularly swimming in waterfalls, and suggests taking hikes that end at beautiful waterfalls as a way to connect with nature. He highlights memorable waterfall experiences in the Dominican Republic and Thailand. For his 'pay it forward' segment, David brings attention to his wife's inspiring organization, which encourages children in Boston to complete a race, as well as the urgent need to address climate change, citing recent extreme weather events around the globe. The conversation spans various aspects of David's life, journalism, and documentaries, providing inspiration and valuable insights.
Shows: Available on the Discovery Channel and Disney+ (Primal Survivor featured on National Geographic).
Call to Action:
Go listen to the FULL episode of The Adventure Diaries S2 Episode 14for an inspiring conversation with Hazen Audel. Learn how you can contribute to rewilding efforts, support ecotourism, and make a difference in the conservation of our planet’s wildlife. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow adventurers!
“It could be the Lake District, could be the Peak District, could be, the wilds of the West Highlands and stuff like that, or a foreign country. But it's going to a place where you can maybe spend a few days out in the wilderness or out in the countryside or wherever it may be.”
“Aiming to making the kind of the concept of that experience about trying to keep your phone away from the experience unless you need it for navigation or you want, you get an epic sunset or see something, but to just with the goal of being as present as you can.”
Pay It Forward: “I like a lot of stuff that people are doing out there, the BMC doing incredible things. But one of the, I think one of the things is true to my heart other than the Royal Marines Association that help veterans and ex Royal Marines dealing with mental health issues and stuff like that.”
One of my friends, a guy called Andy Jones, he passed away recently. He was an ex-army guy and he died of a brain tumor. So I think to
Protect Our Winters (POW) is a key organization for systemic change.
Engage with international and local chapters.
Support POW with donations or volunteer time.
Use available resources to drive impactful changes for the environment.
Quote from Graham Zimmerman: "Support them with money, support them with time. And think about how you can leverage the levers that are available to you in your life in order to drive the impact that we need in order to take on systemic change so that we can deal with our climate and have clean water and clean air for everybody around us."
"Protect Our Winters. I'm going to say it's really easy."
"In many ways, it's an organization that has been a key part of my journey."
"Support them with money, support them with time, and think about how you can leverage the levers that are available to you in your life in order to drive the impact that we need."
Episode Highlights:
Finding His Path:
Graham shares how his life has been a blend of adventure and serendipity, starting with his parents' move to New Zealand.
Balancing Acts:
Discussion around Graham's book, A Fine Line, and how it frames the balancing act of climbing with life’s other important aspects.
Climbing the Unclimbed:
The story of the Mount Bradley climb and how it tested Graham’s limits.
Insights into the strategic planning and technical climbing involved in the Link Sar expedition.
Alastair's project of exploring one grid square of his local map each week.
The richness and discoveries found close to home.
A Call to Adventure:
Encouraging listeners to embark on their own local adventures.
The concept of finding and exploring the highest points in local areas.
Quotes from the Episode:
"While training to be a teacher, I was daydreaming about adventure, reading books, and thinking, 'Oh, I'd love to be off doing that.'"
"Once you start an adventure, you realize it's not that complicated. Just ride your bike, find food, find somewhere to sleep, and repeat."
"The adventure here was to stand up in little village squares in Spain with no money, only the violin. It was terrifying but thrilling."
Call to Action:
Local Seven Summits Challenge: Find the seven highest points in your local area and explore them. Share your adventures with the hashtag #local7summits.
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