Explore every episode of the podcast One Off Travel Stories
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| JR Harris' Solo Trek Across Baffin Island | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:58:30 | |
Guest: J.R. Harris
Episode Summary: In this episode, host Andrew sits down with J.R. Harris, a lifelong New Yorker and legendary wilderness trekker who has explored some of the most remote and challenging terrains in the world. J.R. recounts his solo trek across Baffin Island in the Canadian Arctic, sharing the mental and physical trials he faced during the expedition. From navigating polar bear country to a hair-raising gorge crossing, J.R. reflects on how fear and preparation shaped his adventure. Tune in to hear how J.R.'s love for remote wilderness areas has fueled his lifelong passion for exploration. Topics Covered:
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| Naveen's World Cup Adventure in Paris | 14 Aug 2024 | 00:39:03 | |
Episode Title: Serendipity in Paris: Naveen Rana’s World Cup Adventure Guest: Naveen Rana
Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew chats with Naveen Rana, a Canadian technology professional with a creative side. Naveen shares a captivating story about his spontaneous trip to Paris in 2006, where he unexpectedly found himself amidst the excitement of the World Cup. On this trip, Naveen used his photography skills to bond with travelers and make new friends. From capturing candid moments on the streets of Paris to celebrating with locals after a thrilling World Cup match, Naveen’s story demonstrates the power of serendipity in travel. Topics Covered:
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| Marc's impromptu exam in Egypt | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:44:19 | |
Guest: Marc Gervers Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew chats with Marc Gervers, an international arbitration lawyer based in Europe, about his trip impromptu trip to Cairo, Egypt, to write the UK bar exam. Marc is a lifelong traveler, has lived in many countries, and can speak 5 languages. We hear about his encounters with locals who provided a genuine cultural experience, his valuable tips on exploring Cairo, and of course, his exam experience. Marc's tales offer a captivating glimpse into the highs and lows of travel, emphasizing the importance of local interactions and of staying cool in the summer heat. Topics Covered:
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| Don gets the VIP treatment in Kuwait | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:44:56 | |
Guest: Don Burns Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew welcomes Don Burns, a seasoned traveler from Toronto, Canada. Don shares an intriguing story about his spontaneous trip to Kuwait, highlighting the incredible hospitality he experienced and the surprising insights he gained about Kuwaiti culture. From world class restaurants to private parties, Don’s journey offers a captivating glimpse into a lesser-known travel destination. Key Points:
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| Sophie's mad dash across Uzbekistan | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:39:08 | |
Guest: Sophie Roy Episode Summary: In this episode of One Off Travel Stories, host Andrew sits down with Sophie Roy, an avid traveler and startup builder, to delve into her adventure in Uzbekistan. Sophie shares her unique experiences exploring the country before getting to her one off story. From navigating flight challenges to discovering the hidden gems of Uzbek culture, this episode is packed with captivating moments and insightful reflections. Tune in to learn about Uzbekistan's rich history, its warm hospitality, and a surprising encounter with Uzbek techno music. Topics Covered:
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| Michael's attempt to meet the King of Bhutan | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:47:52 | |
Guest: Michael Bervell In this episode of One Off Travel Stories, host Andrew welcomes Michael Bervell to the show. An accomplished entrepreneur, angel investor, and author, Michael shares a captivating travel story from his recent trip to Bhutan. He discusses the fascinating concept of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan's unique cultural preservation efforts, and of course his one off story that involves the King of Bhutan. Tune in for an engaging conversation about Bhutan's breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and Michael's personal experiences. Topics Covered:
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| One Off Travel Stories Trailer | 24 May 2024 | 00:01:28 | |
Welcome to "One Off Travel Stories," the podcast where each episode features a different guest recounting an extraordinary event that happened while they were traveling. Join us as we dive into personal narratives that highlight the spontaneity and unpredictability of travel. From off-the-beaten-path destinations to unexpected encounters, get ready to be inspired, entertained, and sometimes even astonished by the stories shared by our diverse lineup of travelers. | |||
| James Dorsey Encounters the Hadza Tribe in Western Tanzania | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:39:23 | |
Guest: James Michael Dorsey
Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew speaks with James Michael Dorsey, an award-winning author and seasoned explorer. James shares a remarkable travel story from his journey to western Tanzania, where he encountered the Hadza, one of Africa's last true hunter-gatherer tribes. From facing thrilling tests of trust with the tribe to becoming "bait" in a dramatic hunt, James' experiences reveal the deep cultural insights he gained while documenting vanishing cultures. He also discusses his parallel passion for cetacean research, which led him to a whale sanctuary in Mexico. Listen in to discover the adventures and insights that have shaped his career. Topics Covered:
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| Alice's Unforgettable Safari in Zambia | 19 Dec 2024 | 00:43:19 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Alice, an intrepid traveler and author, to hear about her unforgettable safari experience in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park. Alice recounts her encounters with majestic lions, a mother leopard, and her unforgettable night camping in the wild. From the tense moments of a lion hunt to the quiet lessons learned from nature, Alice’s story is a fascinating blend of beauty, danger, and self-discovery. She also shares how this experience inspired her travel memoir and shaped her approach to storytelling and publishing. Guest: Alice
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| Tara's Motorcycle Excursion in Colombia | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:43:21 | |
Guest: Tara
Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew chats with Tara, a solo traveler and outdoor enthusiast based in Hawaii, about her adventurous weekend trip to Minca, Colombia. Tara shares how a work exchange program led her to explore the region on the back of a motorcycle with a fellow traveler, navigating muddy mountain roads and unexpected challenges. From a harrowing ride through narrow, slippery paths to a serene cacao farm experience and a heartwarming encounter with a moto-taxi driver, Tara’s story is full of thrilling twists and turns. Tune in for an inspiring tale of spontaneity, resilience, and the joys of solo travel. Topics Covered:
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| Saujeet's Unexpected Challenge in Darjeeling | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:46:48 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Saujeet Mondal, a passionate solo traveler, motorcycling enthusiast, and visual storyteller from Kolkata, India. Saujeet shares the story of his unforgettable trip to Darjeeling, known as the "Queen of Hills." From navigating steep, narrow roads and breathtaking mountain views to overcoming a dislocated elbow in the middle of an offbeat destination, Saujeet’s tale is one of resilience, adventure, and the kindness of strangers. Guest: Saujeet Mondal
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| Niamh McAnally's Sailing Scare in the Leeward Islands | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:48:54 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Niamh, an Irish-born author and traveler, who tells the story of meeting her husband through sailing and of their harrowing experience sailing from Antigua towards the USA. After 18 months away from sailing due to the global pandemic, when they took to the seas from Antigua, they didn’t expect to find themselves caught in a high risk situation. A floating ball of rope tangled around the boat's propeller in the open ocean, forcing Niamh to dive beneath the waves to attempt an emergency fix. Guest: Niamh
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| Lavender Fields Forever: Rachael’s Trip to Provence | 28 May 2025 | 00:41:30 | |
When Rachael Rogers traveled through the south of France, her Airbnb host offered to show her around the area, and it turned into one of her most memorable experiences. In this episode, Andrew chats with Rachael about her road trip through Provence, the beauty of taking your time, and the joy of visiting a lavender field in full bloom. Guest: Rachael Rogers
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| From Typhoon to Tranquility: Peter Moore's Trek Through Nepal | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:46:45 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Peter Moore, writer, editor, illustrator, and former Men's Health editor, to talk about a work trip to Nepal that went off-script in all the best ways. Originally planning to trek to Everest Base Camp for a radio segment, Peter’s journey was rerouted by a typhoon, leading him instead on the Langtang-Gosainkunda trail. Along the way, he faced monsoons, illness, altitude, and moments of spiritual awe. From recording radio interviews in the rain to taking a ritual cleansing dip in a sacred lake, Peter reflects on transformation through travel and how getting lost—literally and figuratively—can be the greatest gift of all. Guest: Peter Moore
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| Through the Crowd: Danika’s Giza Adventure | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:42:37 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Danika Duarte Smith, a dancer, educator, and travel writer, to talk about her unforgettable first trip to Egypt during Eid. While living and teaching in Iraqi Kurdistan, Danika took a week off to explore Cairo, including a chaotic and crowded day at the Giza pyramid complex. From refusing overpriced horse carriage rides to navigating mayhem at the ticket booth, Danika shares how a random act of kindness and a stroke of luck got her and her travel companions through the chaos—and into one of the most iconic ancient sites on Earth. Guest: Danika Duarte Smith
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| Delia Swims with Sharks in the Galapagos Islands | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:47:16 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Delia, a full-time solo traveler and digital nomad who has been exploring the world for nearly a decade. A certified freediver and adventure traveler, Delia shares her incredible experience diving with hammerhead sharks in the Galápagos Islands. From breathtaking underwater encounters to unexpected challenges, she recounts how this journey became one of the most unforgettable moments of her life. Along the way, she reflects on the balance between exploration, conservation, and personal growth. Guest: Delia
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| Asking Icelandic Strangers About Their Happiest Memories – Anne Marie's Travel Experiment | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:49:45 | |
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Anne Marie Wells to hear about her solo hitchhiking trip across Iceland, where she spent weeks asking strangers one question: “What is your happiest memory?”. From there, she would venture out to visit the scene of the memory. Anne Marie shares the emotional highs and quiet moments that defined her trip and how curiosity and courage opened doors she never expected. Guest: Anne Marie Wells
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| A Conversation with Legendary Investor and Traveler Jim Rogers | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:31:25 | |
Legendary investor and traveler Jim Rogers joins the show to share wisdom from his two epic global journeys, one by motorcycle and one by car, that set world records. Jim discusses how he retired early from Wall Street to see the world, sharing insights on how on-the-ground travel informs his investment strategy and why he chose to drive a bright yellow Mercedes through 116 countries. From being held "hostage" by a police chief in the Congo to his philosophy on exploring the unknown, Jim encourages listeners to embrace the uncomfortable and go where they haven't been before. Guest:
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Resources and Links: Call to Action: Check out our website at oneofftravelstories.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. | |||
| Iceland Inspires Matt Wilson's Startup Idea | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:46:12 | |
When a last-minute invitation took Matt Wilson to Iceland to document climate change and adventure tourism, it started out as a typical outdoor adventure. He met a backcountry guide, rode “super jeeps” across rivers, and climbed a glacier at midnight. However, while sitting with new friends above the clouds admiring volcano peaks in the distance he also hatched the idea that became his future business. Guest: Matt Wilson
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| Michelle's Journey to Socotra: An Island like No Other | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:52:48 | |
In this episode, host Andrew sits down with adventure travel writer Michelle to discuss her expedition to the Yemeni island of Socotra. Sparked by a photograph of a blooming bottle tree, Michelle joined a guided group to explore the island's rare flora, including the endangered Dragon's Blood tree. The conversation covers the realities of off-grid desert camping, the memorable connections the group made, and the benefits of stepping out of your comfort zone. Guest:
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| Exploring the Path of History: Mark Mustian's Journey to Turkey and Syria | 27 Feb 2026 | 00:40:58 | |
In this episode of One Off Travel Stories, Andrew sits down with Mark Mustian, a seasoned traveler and author, to discuss his 2008 journey through Turkey and Syria. Mark traveled to the region to conduct firsthand research for his historical fiction novel, The Gendarme, which centers around the topic of the Armenian Genocide. Mark shares vivid memories of navigating tense border crossings, exploring the ancient Citadel in Aleppo, and navigating sensitive cultural topics during his travels. Guest: Mark is a professional lawyer who primarily practices contract law. He is an avid lifelong traveler who has visited over ninety countries. He is the author of three historical fiction books, including The Gendarme. Chapters:
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Call to action: Check out my website at oneofftravelstories.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. | |||