The Human Adventure – Details, episodes & analysis

#154 - Imagine plunging down a 35-foot waterfall strapped inside a kayak, or trying to compose a stunning piano piece that captures the serenity of nature. These are just fragments of Jon Cheney's extraordinary journey as a creator, adventurer, entrepreneur, and man of faith.

From his early years in a musical household where his parents prioritized owning a grand piano before even having proper furniture, to his teenage years in Paraguay learning Spanish, Jon's life has been defined by embracing new challenges. His remarkable ability to master languages – including Mandarin Chinese during his church mission – parallels his approach to music composition, where he sees patterns and structures that most miss.

The heart of our conversation explores Jon's passion for whitewater kayaking and the profound life lessons it's taught him. "You're going to flip over in life," Jon explains with the wisdom of someone who's faced Class 5 rapids and business setbacks alike. "But when you've learned that you can flip over and then get back up and be okay, then the world really opens up." This philosophy has guided him through entrepreneurial ventures, creative pursuits, and personal challenges.

What makes Jon's perspective particularly refreshing is his recent epiphany about pursuing multiple passions. After years of praying for divine guidance on which path to choose – music, adventure, business, or writing – he found peace in Elder Uchtdorf's simple wisdom: "It mattereth not, only be faithful." This liberating principle has energized Jon to embrace all facets of his creative spirit rather than waiting for permission to begin.

Whether you're considering your own adventure into whitewater kayaking, struggling to choose between multiple passions, or simply seeking inspiration from someone who's mastered the art of getting back up after life flips you over, Jon's story will leave you both entertained and equipped with a new perspective on life's rapids. Follow Jon on Instagram @cheneypiano or on his website joncheney.com to continue following his journey of creation and adventure!

Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake

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.

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

#153 - Meet Ryan Mellon, a man who completely transformed his life by breaking free from the grind of 80-hour workweeks to embrace a life of global adventure. For over a decade, Ryan worked grueling 14-hour days, splitting time between fixing deep fryers and sorting packages at UPS, until a transformative two-week trip to Costa Rica ignited a vision for something different.

This captivating conversation tracks Ryan's methodical journey from overworked employee to successful digital nomad coach. After convincing his friends to join a year-long RV adventure across America, Ryan discovered he could leverage his real estate license to earn remotely – the pivotal realization that launched his location-independent lifestyle. Seven years later, he's worked from 23 US states and 22 countries while developing multiple income streams.

Ryan breaks down the three primary paths to digital nomadism – remote employment, freelancing, and entrepreneurship – offering practical insights for anyone considering this increasingly accessible lifestyle. With 66 countries now offering digital nomad visas and co-living spaces emerging worldwide, the barriers to location-independence continue to fall.

The episode brims with riveting travel tales, from motorcycle journeys through rural Vietnamese mountains to living on catamarans in crystal-clear Bahamian waters. Ryan shares both the extraordinary benefits of digital nomad life and its genuine challenges, including navigating internet reliability and combating occasional loneliness.

Now operating as a "hybrid nomad," Ryan splits his time between summers on his Virginia sailboat and winters abroad, with Bali emerging as his absolute favorite destination. His coaching practice helps others create their own versions of freedom, whether that means full-time travel or simply more flexibility and autonomy in daily life.

Ready to reimagine what's possible in your work and life? This conversation might just be the permission slip you need to explore new horizons. What adventure awaits when you step beyond conventional boundaries?

To learn more about Ryan and his coaching be sure to check out his website thedigitalnomadcoach.com and you can also check out his Instagram account @thedigitalnomadcoach.

Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake

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.

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

Kelton Shelley shares his extraordinary journey from childhood leukemia to becoming a dedicated endurance athlete, highlighting the power of resilience and the importance of investing in oneself. His story inspires listeners to face challenges head-on and embrace their unique paths to success.

• Definition of 'deposit' in the context of personal growth 
• Kelton's childhood in Utah and initial passion for sports 
• Overcoming leukemia and the pivotal role of family support 
• Transition to endurance sports and the significance of hard work 
• The challenges and triumphs of participating in Spartan races 
• Insights on dealing with pain and mental perseverance 
• The balance between racing and playing drums in a metal band 
• Setting future goals and embracing life's adventures 
• The deeper meaning of adventure as a continuous journey

To follow along with Kelton give him a follow on Instagram @kshell36.

Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake 

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.

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

#061 - Ever wonder how hurling your way through Ireland or navigating icy fjords in Iceland could transform your life? Or how about the impact of social media on your personal expectations? Join Allie and Regan from the Wanderlusting Wives Podcast , as we travel across borders and delve into socio-cultural norms, all from the comfort of this podcast.

Sit back and fasten your seat belts as we take you on a captivating ride through the highs and lows of Allie's adventurous camping escapades during her sophomore year of college and Regan's adrenaline-pumping river rafting trip. We'll also regale you with our enthralling experiences at a hurling match in Ireland and a unique first birthday party in Bolivia. But that's not all; we'll also be revealing the challenges and trials faced in navigating life changes and societal expectations, right from their first year of marriage to setting up our their own traditions.

In the final leg of our journey, we'll transport you to Allie's and Regan's favorite travel destinations spanning from the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park to the vibrant streets of Paris, before rounding off our conversation with some heartfelt reflections. The Wanderlusting Wives, believe in the power of adventure and the transformative journey of travel, and want to remind you to break away from societal expectations, find your own path, and embark on your unique journey. So, are you ready for an adventure?

Please give Allie and Regan a follow on Instagram @wanderlustingwives and check out their podcast, Wanderlusting Wives, on all major podcast platforms.  Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and leave me a review on Apple Podcasts!  Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake!

Picture this: you're on a journey, navigating the twists and turns of life, much like training for a half marathon. Drawing parallels between everyday hurdles and the pursuit of running, guest host Rick Bamford (from episode 35) talks to me about my half marathon experience and dives into some of my insights about the podcast.

Are you ready to unleash the power of gratitude? There's magic in the mundane, and joy in the simple moments that often go unnoticed. We talk about my transition from a travel to an adventure podcast and underline the importance of reaching out to others to lift us all - because we're in this race together. With laughter, camaraderie, and a dose of wisdom, this episode will certainly resonate with you on every level.

As we wrap up this enlightening episode, I, Jake, reflect on my achievements and discuss future growth. We celebrate milestones, no matter how big or small, and underscore the importance of relishing life's little moments. So, join me on this adventure, because sometimes, life is like a thrilling half marathon, and you just need to keep running!

Be sure and give my guest host, Rick Bamford a follow on Instagram @lord_rickster and check out my Instagram account as well @journeywithjakepodcast.  I hope you enjoy getting to know me a little bit better.  There are some fantastic Journey with Jake episodes coming your way so be ready for those!!

#059 - What if a 14-year-old boy could inspire you to see the world through a different lens? Meet Adarsh Nagda, a young wildlife enthusiast from Nairobi, Kenya, who is on a mission to invite us all to protect our wildlife. Join us as we journey through Adarsh's exciting wildlife encounters, from his first visit to Nairobi National Park to his daring escapades, including watching a cheetah on a hunt and getting stuck in the mud with a lioness nearby.

Adarsh's passion for wildlife is contagious. Every thrilling adventure and heartfelt experience he shares, whether it's observing the Big Five of Africa or capturing the unique wildlife species of Kenya through the lens of his camera, is a testament to his deep love for the animal kingdom. We also discuss the impact of tourism on wildlife and share some insights on how to engage responsibly with our natural environment.

However, our conversation is not just about adventures. We also delve into the pressing issues facing wildlife conservation. Adarsh shares his experiences visiting various conservation sites and his thoughts on the challenges of habitat destruction and the illegal wildlife trade. His plea for everyone to join in his mission to protect wildlife, starting with adopting an elephant, is not only inspiring but also a stark reminder of the vital role we all play in preserving our planet. So, listen in, get inspired, and perhaps, adopt an elephant!

Please give Adarsh a follow on Instagram @adarsh.nagda and follow me as well @journeywithjakepodcast to see some clips and pictures of my guest!!

#058 - What happens when a 20-year-old adventure-seeker from Maryland discovers the world of acrobatics? Join us this week as we chat with Tigor Lettsome about his fascinating journey from basketball to acro and the life lessons he's learned along the way. Raised in a diverse family and homeschooled, Tigor's unique background plays a significant role in his indomitable spirit and drive to overcome the challenges he faces in life.

Learn how a friendly bet with his family sparked a dedication to health and fitness that eventually led Tigor to the world of acrobatics. Listen in as he shares his experiences as part of the acro team in college, the performances they put on, and the incredible community they've built together. Discover how Tigor's unwavering discipline and faith have enabled him to push through pain and become a stronger athlete and individual.

As Tigor reflects on his journey so far, he offers up valuable advice for anyone chasing their dreams: don't wait. The conversation touches on the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing challenges as chances for growth. With plans to finish his business major Tigor's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Don't miss this inspiring and motivating episode with Tigor Lettsome!

Be sure and give Tigor a follow on Instagram @therealtigor and while you are at it give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram as well.  

#057 - What happens when a couple goes from dating app to running marathons together? Join us on a wild adventure with ultra runners and podcast hosts, Jacob and Melody Bateman from Trail to 100, as we explore their captivating journey to conquering ultra races and growing stronger individually and as a couple.

Discover the incredible stories of their running experiences, including the challenges of tackling a 100-mile race, the near-miraculous finding of water in the middle of a scorching hot trail, and even a close encounter with a charging moose! Learn how determination and pushing through mental and physical barriers can change your life and ignite your passion for adventure.

As Jacob and Melody share their coaching services for beginner ultra runners, we'll delve into their valuable tips and insights on how to train for and conquer your first 100-mile race. Melody also reveals her experience staying active and fit during her pregnancy, proving that determination and love for adventure can be maintained even in the face of life's changes. So, tune in and let the Batemans' incredible story inspire you to push through your own challenges and reach for your goals.

Be sure and give them a follow on Instagram @trailto100 and Melody's coaching @thepinetreerunner.  Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to see snippets from the show and pictures of my guests!  Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake.

#056 - Ever dreamt of soaring through the skies like a bird? Strap in for an adrenaline-pumping conversation with Walker Becraft, a paramotor enthusiast who'll take us on a journey to the thrilling world of powered paragliding and paramotoring. Discover how the perfect combination of wing fabric, motor, and propeller can create an unforgettable experience among the clouds.

Join us as Walker shares his passion for defying gravity, exploring the technical aspects of paramotoring, and offering invaluable advice for those keen on trying out this extreme sport. Gain insights into Walker's nerve-wracking yet awe-inspiring flights, including his mountain range adventure, and learn about the importance of proper training and equipment. But the excitement doesn't end there - we also discuss Walker's paramotoring escapades in Northern Utah, where he performs maneuvers like barrel rolls and wing overs while also working with military personell.

Get ready to be inspired by Walker's contagious enthusiasm for paramotoring, a reminder that sometimes the most fulfilling adventures are the ones that take us to new heights. Listen in as we uncover the secrets of this incredible sport and find out how you, too, can break free from gravity's grasp and conquer the skies.

You can follow Walker on Instagram @walkerb___ and see some great footage of his paramotoring flights on Instagram.

Thank you for listening each and every week.  For more information and insights into my guests follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.  

#055 - Ever wondered how to bring the magic of travel into your everyday life? Join us as we chat with Kat Medina, author of The Joys of Jetlag, who reveals her secrets for embracing a traveler's mindset at home. We discuss the contrast between how we act while traveling and our behavior in our daily routines, and how we can use a traveler's mindset to live more fully and joyfully, no matter where we are.

In this captivating conversation, Kat shares her experiences of visiting Cuba and finding happiness in the people and culture, even amidst poverty. By disconnecting from her phone and focusing on the present moment, Kat unlocked the beauty of the unknown. Listen in and learn how stepping away from technology can open doors for creativity, imagination, and connection.

Lastly, we delve into the challenge of bridging the gap between the excitement of traveling and the fulfillment of our day-to-day lives. Kat imparts her wisdom on embracing adventure, staying open-hearted, and finding humor in the unexpected. Discover how saying "yes" to the present moment can lead to more meaningful experiences and how to shift your mindset to make the most out of your everyday life. Come along with us on this journey to living fully with a traveler's mindset!

Please give Kat a follow on Instagram @katmedinawriter and check out her book "The Joys of Jet Lag".  You can find the book on Amazon or Barnes and Noble.  Just search for "The Joys of Jet Lag" or visit her website www.katmedina.com. 

If you want to see some pictures and clips from the episodes give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and join our community there.