Episodes

  • Cyril Derreumaux: Epic Kayak Adventures, Crossing the Pacific & Atlantic Oceans

    Cyril Derreumaux: Epic Kayak Adventures, Crossing the Pacific & Atlantic Oceans
    May 30 2024

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    In Season 2 episode 3 pf the Adventure Diaries podcast, Cyril Derreumaux, a world-record-breaking adventure kayaker, shared his journey from the wine industry to becoming a full-time adventurer and motivational speaker. His story exemplifies mental resilience, the importance of preparation, and the beauty of embracing the unknown. Cyril's insights from harrowing storms, failed attempts, and successful voyages provide a profound look into the life of an adventurer.

    From Wine to Waves

    Cyril's transition from the wine industry to adventure kayaking is a tale of passion. He recounts, "The moment I left, there's really a sense of adventure, a sense of, okay, now it's me in the ocean, I love it, that's what I want to do and feel your joy and happiness." This shift highlights his pursuit of new experiences and the courage to change career paths.

    The Journey of Endurance

    Facing formidable challenges, Cyril emphasizes mental resilience. Reflecting on his failed attempts, he states, "Yes, I failed, I didn't cross. But why? And that's in answering the why that actually you learn the most." These experiences taught him that failure is a learning opportunity that drives improvement and success.

    Encounters with Nature

    One highlight of Cyril's adventures is his encounters with wildlife. From whales and dolphins to albatrosses and flying fish, the ocean's biodiversity adds a magical element to his voyages, underlining the profound connection between adventurers and nature.

    Preparing for the Atlantic Crossing

    As Cyril prepares for his next epic adventure, the Atlantic Crossing, he delves into rigorous preparation. His holistic training regimen includes physical endurance, mental fortitude, and strategic planning. "I would have to make my water. I have a water maker that's heavy," he explains, showcasing the practical challenges of solo journeys.

    Inspiring Others and Paying It Forward

    Cyril's passion for adventure and commitment to environmental conservation are evident. He encourages others to seek their own adventures and live their best lives, declaring, "Adventure is vibration. It has to come from the heart." He also advocates for environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace.

    Takeaways

    • Mental Resilience: Enduring challenges and learning from failure.
    • Career Transition: From wine industry to full-time adventurer and motivational speaker.
    • Holistic Preparation: Physical and mental training for ultra-endurance adventures.
    • Success Criteria: Safety, enjoyment, and personal definitions of success.
    • Wildlife Encounters: Highlighting the beauty and connection with nature.
    • Environmental Conservation: Promoting leave-no-trace principles.
    • Post-Expedition Blues: Adjusting to routine life after an adventure.
    • Inspiration: Encouraging others to pursue their own adventures.

    For more on Cyril's upcoming Atlantic crossing and to follow his journey, visit solokayaktheatlantic.com. Stay tuned to Adventure Diaries for more inspiri

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Charlie Walker (S2 EP2 RECAP) : Call To Adventure - Talk To Strangers

    Charlie Walker (S2 EP2 RECAP) : Call To Adventure - Talk To Strangers
    May 28 2024

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    An Inspirational Chat with British Explorer Charlie Walker

    In the latest episode of The Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson sits down with the Explorer, Charlie Walker. This engaging conversation is packed with insightful anecdotes and motivational advice, perfect for anyone looking to spark their own sense of adventure.

    A Call to Adventure
    Charlie's suggestions are refreshingly simple yet profound.

    Reading as an Adventure:
    "Well, I mean, quite simple really. Uh, I would say, I mean, for one read. You know, read, uh, travel books, read, I mean, novels are, of course, are wonderful escapism, but read nonfiction alongside novels. And it doesn't need to be travel books. It doesn't need to be adventure books," Charlie advises.

    Reading, according to Charlie, is a fantastic way to understand the world better and appreciate the universal human experiences and fascinating differences across cultures. Whether it's a gripping novel or an insightful nonfiction book, the act of reading can transport you to new places and expand your horizons.

    Connecting with Strangers:
    Another piece of advice from Charlie is to talk to strangers. "One of the things that I've most relished and probably have taken away from trips I've been on is the habit of being that person on the train, for instance, who just starts talking to the person next to them," he shares.

    Charlie acknowledges that while this might occasionally lead to awkward moments, the benefits far outweigh the discomfort. These spontaneous conversations often lead to memorable encounters and new friendships, adding a rich layer of experience to any journey.


    Recommended Reads
    When asked about his favorite travel writers, Charlie mentions Redmond O'Hanlon with great enthusiasm. O'Hanlon is known for his wild, often comically disastrous adventures, whether he's navigating the jungles of Borneo or braving the rough seas of the North Sea.

    "I'm a huge fan of the travel writer Redmond O'Hanlon. He is a very different type of traveler to me, but he goes off on mad cat journeys for which he, by his own admission, is woefully ill-suited to," Charlie explains. O'Hanlon's ability to empathize with the people he encounters and his hilarious storytelling make his books a must-read for any travel enthusiast.


    Paying It Forward
    The final tradition in Chris's podcast is the "Pay It Forward" segment, where guests highlight a worthy cause. Charlie chooses Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), an organization renowned for its work in conflict zones and disaster areas worldwide.

    "There's nothing I can think of that is more universally important than MSF, Médecins Sans Frontières, or Doctors Without Borders," Charlie states. He praises their unwavering commitment to providing medical care in the most challenging situations, often at great personal risk.


    Wrapping Up

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    6 mins
  • Charlie Walker: Cycling To The Ends Of Europe, Africa & Asia

    Charlie Walker: Cycling To The Ends Of Europe, Africa & Asia
    May 23 2024

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    Adventure Diaries Season 2 - Episode 2 with Explorer Charlie Walker.

    Charlie Walker, a British explorer, shares his adventures of cycling 43,000 miles across 60 countries. He discusses his unconventional background and how he came to embark on this journey. He highlights the importance of human-powered travel and the intimate connections it allows with people and cultures. He shares stories of his interactions with locals in Belgium, Iran, and Tibet, emphasizing the kindness and hospitality he experienced. He also talks about the challenges he faced, including extreme cold weather and the struggle to find food and water in remote areas. In this conversation, Charlie Walker discusses his adventures across the world, including his journey through Mongolia, West Africa, Tibet, and Siberia. He shares stories of encountering nomads in the Gobi Desert, the problem of alcoholism in Mongolia, visiting refugee camps in Guinea, and wildlife encounters in various countries. Charlie reflects on the joyous moments of solitude in nature and the absurdity of his experiences. He also recommends reading travel books and talking to strangers as ways to explore the world. Charlie's call to adventure is to read and engage with nonfiction books, while his pay-it-forward suggestion is to support Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders).

    Takeaways

    • Human-powered travel allows for intimate connections with people and cultures.
    • Kindness and hospitality are universal, even in remote and unfamiliar places.
    • Extreme weather and scarcity of food and water can pose significant challenges during adventures.
    • Unconventional backgrounds can lead to unexpected and transformative journeys. Engage with the world through reading travel books and nonfiction
    • Embrace the joy of solitude in nature
    • Talk to strangers and engage in conversations
    • Support Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) in their humanitarian work

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • NESS KNIGHT (S2 EP1 RECAP) - Call To Adventure

    NESS KNIGHT (S2 EP1 RECAP) - Call To Adventure
    May 21 2024

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    Adventure Diaries Season 2 Episode 1 With Ness Knight:
    A Recap on Ness' Call To Adventure & Pay It Forward Suggestions

    • Call to Adventure: The hardest part of any adventure is getting to the start line. Commit to your plan without a fallback option, whether it’s a small local activity or a grand expedition.
    • Overcoming Barriers: Adventure projects can seem complex and insurmountable, but taking the first step, like booking a course or flight, can set the momentum.
    • Support for Anti-Poaching Efforts: Instead of just donating money, consider sending essential equipment like boots, clothing, and military-grade supplies to anti-poaching units in Southern Africa.
    • Practical Contribution: Boots and proper gear can significantly aid anti-poaching rangers who face harsh conditions and long periods in the wilderness.
    • Actionable Advice: Research and find ways to directly support anti-poaching units with tangible goods to enhance their efforts in wildlife conservation.
    #Adventure #Exploration #Guyana

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    4 mins
  • Ness Knight: First Descent Of Essequibo River Guyana with the Wai-Wai Tribe

    Ness Knight: First Descent Of Essequibo River Guyana with the Wai-Wai Tribe
    May 16 2024

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    Welcome to Season 2 of The Adventure Diaries.

    Starting off season 2 with a thrilling episode of Adventure Diaries with your host, Chris Watson.

    This time, we dive deep into an incredible expedition with our guest, Ness Knight, an adventurer, explorer, and survivalist. Today, Ness shares the story of the first-ever descent of the Essequibo River from source to sea in Guyana, Central America. Joining her on this historic journey were two of her fellow adventurers, Pip Stewart and Laura Bingham. This episode is packed with tales of adventure, danger, and the invaluable lessons learned from the Waiwai, the indigenous tribe who played a crucial role in their journey.


    Ness Knight, Pip Stewart, and Laura Bingham embarked on an expedition to descend the Essequibo River in Guyana, Central America. They collaborated with the indigenous Waiwai tribe and learned their survival skills. The journey was filled with challenges, including infections, parasites, and encounters with dangerous wildlife. The trio had to navigate political concerns and the impact of mining and logging on the river. Despite the difficulties, they formed a strong bond with the Waiwai tribe and achieved their goal of reaching the source of the river. In this conversation, Ness Knight shares her experiences of embarking on challenging expeditions, including her journey down the Essequibo River in Guyana. She discusses the physical and mental challenges she faced, encounters with wildlife, and the dynamics of team expeditions. Ness also talks about her upcoming documentary on the rhino horn trade and highlights the importance of supporting anti-poaching efforts. She encourages listeners to commit to their own adventures and make a difference by providing equipment to anti-poaching units.

    Takeaways

      • Collaborating with indigenous communities can provide a unique and immersive experience during expeditions.
      • Complacency can be dangerous in remote and challenging environments.
      • Respecting and learning from local cultures and traditions is essential during expeditions.
      • Political and environmental factors can impact the success and safety of an expedition.
      • Overcoming physical and mental challenges can lead to personal growth and achievement. Embarking on solo adventures can help develop self-confidence and decision-making skills.
      • Team expeditions offer the opportunity to forge deep friendships and learn from others' skills and experiences.
      • Getting to the start line of an adventure is often the hardest part, but making a commitment and eliminating a plan B can help overcome obstacles.
      • Supporting anti-poaching efforts by providing equipment to rangers can make a significant impact in protecting wildlife.
      • Documentaries can raise awareness and transform people's perspectives on conservation issues.

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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Exploring Softer Adventures in Morocco (S1 Recap) with Chris Christensen

    Exploring Softer Adventures in Morocco (S1 Recap) with Chris Christensen
    May 16 2024

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    Have you ever wanted to step out of your daily routine and explore the mysteries of a place so enchanting that you can't tell what century you're in? In the latest episode of Adventure Diaries, host Chris Watson talks with travel enthusiast Chris Christensen about the subtle thrills of soft adventure — a gentler, yet equally exhilarating alternative to extreme sports like ice climbing.

    In this captivating episode, Chris Christensen shares his memorable experiences traveling to Morocco, a destination that tops his list of must-visit places. Describing Morocco as his wife's favorite trip despite a bout of illness during their journey, Christensen paints a vivid picture of a country where the past and present merge seamlessly, offering travelers a unique and immersive experience. "From day to day, she couldn't tell what century she was in," he recalls, underscoring the timeless allure of Morocco's landscapes and culture.

    The discussion isn't just about where to go but how to make travel meaningful and enriching. Christensen extends an invitation to listeners, offering a chance to join him on an upcoming group trip to Fez and Northern Morocco in April. This trip promises to explore areas uncharted in their previous travels, specifically focusing on the southern regions they explored last time. Interested adventurers can find more details and reserve their spot by visiting amateurtraveller.com/trips.

    Furthermore, the episode delves into the spirit of giving back through travel. Christensen highlights the importance of supporting impactful causes like Doctors Without Borders, an organization close to his heart. He shares personal stories of healthcare professionals, including his wife, who volunteer their time in regions where medical care is scarce. This segment not only sheds light on the noble endeavors associated with travel but also encourages listeners to contribute to meaningful causes.

    Before wrapping up, Watson reminds the audience of the unique opportunities available through the Adventure Diaries platform, including mini expedition adventures and special events. These exclusive experiences are designed to foster connections among like-minded individuals in intimate settings, enhancing the essence of adventure.

    As the episode concludes, listeners are left inspired to explore the world in a thoughtful and impactful way. Whether it’s the ancient streets of Morocco or supporting global humanitarian efforts, Chris Christensen’s stories remind us that adventure can be as much about the journey as the destination.

    For those eager to dive deeper into the adventures and insights shared by Christensen, don't miss this episode of Adventure Diaries. Tune in and perhaps, find your next adventure calling.



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    3 mins
  • Albania Adventure & Volunteering (S1 Recap) With Jeff Johns

    Albania Adventure & Volunteering (S1 Recap) With Jeff Johns
    May 15 2024

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    In the world of adventure and exploration, the unknown beckons with an irresistible allure. Chris Watson opens the conversation with a recap of the traditions and adventures shared in the previous episodes. It's a journey through the collective experiences of adventurers who, like Jeff, have embraced the unexpected paths of their travels.

    One standout story from Jeff highlights a trip to Albania—a country he knew nothing about until his plane touched down. This revelation on arrival epitomizes the essence of true adventure. Geoff shares, "The ability to land somewhere and discover it in real time, bringing absolutely nothing to the table—that to me is the most adventurous thing possible." His words not only inspire but also challenge us to rethink our approach to travel.

    Unlike the curated experiences often seen on social media, Jeff advocates for a more spontaneous and unfiltered approach. "Go to somewhere that you know absolutely nothing about and take no preconceived notions or stereotypes into it," he advises. This philosophy of travel encourages a raw interaction with new cultures and environments, allowing every encounter to be genuinely transformative.

    The discussion also veers towards the impactful experiences of volunteering abroad. Chris reminisces about his own early travels, which were profoundly influenced by volunteering in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami in Thailand. Unaware of his destination's exact location initially, Chris's journey was as much about discovering a place as it was about self-discovery through service.

    The organization that facilitated his volunteering, All Hands, remains active and committed to global causes, exemplifying the lasting impact of such engagements. "Any opportunity to interact with a local culture through volunteering is a way to just have an experience that's even a level deeper," Chris notes, underscoring the dual benefit of aiding others while enriching one’s own life.

    For those drawn to the idea of adventure and service, the "Adventure Diaries" not only narrates thrilling tales but also invites listeners to participate in mini expeditions and events. These gatherings are unique opportunities to connect with like-minded adventurers in settings that promise both challenge and camaraderie.

    As the episode closes, Chris encourages everyone to embrace the unpredictable, whether by exploring new territories or engaging in community service. It’s a call to adventure that resonates deeply with anyone eager to leave behind the familiar and leap into the extraordinary.

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    4 mins
  • Baffin Island To the Atacama Desert (S1 Recap): Adventures with Ray Zahab

    Baffin Island To the Atacama Desert (S1 Recap): Adventures with Ray Zahab
    May 14 2024

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    Discovering Adventures Near and Far with Ray Zahab on Adventure Diaries


    The Allure of Local and Global Expeditions

    Welcome to another thrilling recap of the "Adventure Diaries" podcast, where we unravel the spirits and stories of those who dare to explore. In a compelling episode with host Chris Watson, explorer and guide Ray Zahab shares insights that beckon both the seasoned traveler and the curious backyard adventurer.

    Venturing to the Edges of the Earth

    Ray Zahab, a seasoned guide with his company Kapik1 regularly takes adventure-seekers to some of the most breathtaking spots on the planet. In this episode, he highlights two of his favorite destinations: Baffin Island and the Atacama Desert. Described by many as mesmerizing, these locations offer unique experiences that captivate the essence of adventure.

    The Beauty of Backyard Exploration

    Yet, Ray's call to adventure isn’t limited to remote expeditions. He passionately advocates for exploring one’s local environment. Sharing an anecdote from his own life, Ray talks about a spontaneous adventure across a national park in Quebec, right in his backyard. He and his friends traversed the park from north to south during the summer just "for kicks," discovering that true adventure can be just as profound close to home.

    A Call to Pay It Forward

    The episode closes with a poignant 'pay it forward' tradition, urging listeners to contribute to their communities. Ray emphasizes the importance of giving young people the chance to learn and explore outdoors. Supporting local outdoor groups and advocacy efforts can make a significant difference in enabling the next generation of adventurers.

    Join the Adventure

    Chris Watson wraps up by inviting listeners to join limited-participant expeditions and events organized through Adventure Diaries. For those eager to dive deeper, these exclusive gatherings offer intimate and transformative experiences.

    This episode of "Adventure Diaries" with Ray Zahab is more than just a podcast; it's a gateway to appreciating the world both far beyond our reach and right under our feet.
    Whether you're planning your next big adventure or looking for hidden gems nearby, Ray's stories remind us that adventure is everywhere.

    For more enthralling tales and opportunities to explore, tune in to "Adventure Diaries" and consider venturing out—whether into the unknown or your neighborhood.

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    3 mins