adventure sports podcast by Curt Linville

Jeff Swayze, an outdoor nature advocate and mental health counselor, shares the profound impact of nature on mental health and wellness. They explore various outdoor activities, including fly fishing, rock climbing, and winter sports, emphasizing the importance of adventure in connecting with nature. Jeff shares personal anecdotes and insights on overcoming fear and anxiety through outdoor experiences, highlighting the lifelong benefits of engaging with the natural world.

Hang Gliding and Paragliding: Flying Free!

Thru-hiking triple crown: Nic's rebirth after quitting his 9-5 job on doctor's orders to hike the Appalachian Trail, completing the AT and Continental Divide Trail, gearing up for the Pacific Crest Trail, and embracing the kilt as a symbol of freedom, hope, and warmth.

Kayaking from Source to Sea in Madagascar

SCUBA, Stunt Woman, Adventure Travel.

Gravel bike racing: Simon's years of organizing and growing the gravel racing scene in Kenya, East Africa, sharing insights into the world of bike racing.

Highlining & Rock Climbing: Walking on air.

The restorative benefits of biking, hiking, and riding in nature. Natures healing powers!

Offshore sailing: Vivian and Nathan's journey from delivering boats and conducting training sessions to launching their own career offering offshore trips aboard their 47-foot sailboat Ultima, blending travel, excitement, endurance, and fulfillment by helping others achieve their sailing dreams.

Fly Fishing in the City: How to do what you love close to home.

Canoeing, Sea Kayaking, and more: 15,000 miles more!

Travel photography and world travel: Gary Arndt's remarkable journey from a 21-year-old who had never seen the ocean to three-time Travel Photographer of the Year, building a world-famous travel blog, sharing key lessons from years of global adventures, and pivoting during the pandemic to launch the Everything Everywhere Daily History Podcast.

Adventure roadblocks. Anxiety? Allergies? Mold reactions? Restoring health for adventure. Today Curt interviews Lydia Leskanic about her health journey and how it has impacted her ability to engage in adventure sports. They discuss various health challenges, including gluten intolerance, allergies, and the effects of seed oils. Lydia shares her experiences with panic attacks and anxiety, and how somatic therapy and diet has helped her manage these issues. The conversation also delves into the often-overlooked topic of mold toxicity and its effects on health. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of understanding personal health and finding hope in overcoming challenges to lead a fulfilling life filled with adventure.

Marathon Swimming: An amazing way to experience some of the world's most impressive waterways. Listen in as Rob Hutchings, a long-distance swimmer, shares his unique experiences and challenges in open-water swimming. Rob discusses his journey from conventional sports to discovering his passion for swimming. He highlights the beauty of New Zealand's landscapes, the meditative state he achieves while swimming, and the safety measures he takes during his swims. Rob also shares stories of his remarkable swims in UNESCO World Heritage sites, his recovery from cancer, and his future swimming adventures, including a humorous tale about a cow that outswam him in a river. This conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience, adventure, and the joy of exploring nature.

Trail running: Trying different sports, finding new passions.

Solo exploring for women: hiking and self-discovery.

Adventure Travel: Curt and Cindy Liljadal on Adventurous Retirement – Climbing Sky Lodge Suites in Peru's Sacred Valley, Prioritizing Health, Planning, Embracing the Unexpected, and Creating Memories Over Material Possessions. Join us as Curt speaks with Curt and Cindy Liljadal about their adventurous retirement lifestyle. They share their experiences traveling to unique destinations like the Sacred Valley in Peru, where they climbed the Sky Lodge Adventure Suites, and discuss the importance of health, planning, and embracing the unexpected in travel. The couple emphasizes the value of creating memories over material possessions and encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and adventures, regardless of age.

Adventure Filmmaking: Mike Corey on YouTube Adventures, Facing Fears in Remote Wild Places, Crazy Challenges, TV Hosting, and the Wonder of Overcoming Limits. Wild places, crazy challenges, and amazing stories. That pretty much sums up the life and work of YouTube, adventure filmmaker, and TV host, Mike Corey. From early on, Mike has been fascinated by facing his fears and the sense of accomplishment and wonder that exists on the other side of getting past those fears in some of the most remote corners of our globe. 

Mountaineering: Curt's Epic Kilimanjaro Climb to 19,000+ Feet – Sleepwalking, Hypoxia, Near Tragedy, and Reflections on True Success at the Roof of Africa. Wow, where to begin?! Climbing Kilimanjaro was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, but it was more than that. Sleep walking? Yep. Hypoxia? Probably. Near tragedy? Yep. Ultimate success? What defines success? If you ever wanted to know what it is like to climb to over 19,000 feet to the roof of Africa, then listen in.

Mountaineering: Tristan Gooley on Natural Navigation Using Sun, Stars, Landscapes, and Age-Old Techniques for Orientation, Deeper Nature Connection, and Emergency Preparedness. Join us today as Tristan Gooley talks about how to navigate purely by observing the natural environment. Curt and Tristan explore the art of using natural elements like the sun, stars, and landscapes to tell direction, sharing age-old techniques for staying oriented in the wild. They explore how learning these techniques are not only fun, but also unlocks nature's closely kept secrets, fostering a deeper connection with it--not to mention being able to navigate from the natural environment is extremely useful in emergencies.

Bikepacking: Keagan French on Completing the 2,700-Mile Wild West Route from Canada to Mexico, Crossing Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Sawtooth Mountains in a 2-Month Mountain Bike Adventure. The Wild West Bikepacking Route is a new 2,700 mile route from Canada to Mexico that stitches together existing unpaved paths and forest roads to create an incredible cross-section experience of the American West. 

Climbing: What on earth are red pill adventures? Carl and Derek will fill us in on today's episode while Curt is still out climbing Kilimanjaro. As always, lots of laughs and fun with the Backpacking and Blisters guys.

Hiking: Bill Fultz, Kentucky Arch Hunter and Photographer, on Discovering Over 3,261 Natural Arches and 1,605 Waterfalls as Hidden Gems for Nature Adventures. Bill Fultz is a photographer and arch hunter from Kentucky. He shares his fascinating discoveries of the state's natural wonders, including its impressive number of waterfalls and natural arches. Bill reveals that Kentucky boasts over 3,261 documented natural arches and 1,605 waterfalls, making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. He discusses the adventures involved in exploring these formations, the unique geological processes that create them, and practical advise for traveling across the Kentucky landscape.

Mountain Biking: Greg Robidoux on Wild Early-2000s Tour of the Himalayas Race in Pakistan, Food Poisoning, Terrorist Hideouts, and Epic Adventure Stories. Greg Robidoux joins us today to share some truly wild stories about mountain bike racing in Pakistan in the early 2000s in the Tour of the Himalayas. From food poisoning to terrorist hideouts, this episode is short, but packed full of adventure and will have you dreaming up what you can do if you’re willing to go for it!

Backpacking: Carl and Derek from Backpacking and Blisters Share Their Worst Backpacking Trip Ever in a Fun, Guest-Hosted Discussion. I am not even here but you get a fun ASP episode anyway. Carl and Derek from Backpacking and Blisters are here to guest host and provide you with some fresh fun discussing their WORST backpacking trip ever. Enjoy!!

Motorcycle Endurance: Wendy Crockett on Guinness World Record Motorcycle Adventures, Podium Titles, Persevering Through Repeated Setbacks, and Turning Bad Luck into Inspiration. "We kept saying, at least we got all of our bad luck out of the way early."

Family Adventure: Heidi Siefken on Balancing Full-Time Work, Home Remodeling, and Raising Three Kids Through Frequent Outdoor Travel and Authentic Family Experiences as Host of Ordinary Sherpa Podcast. Before kids, Heidi was traveling around the world, loved the outdoors and epic adventures. Once she became a mom she felt like she had to let go of a lot of that. Determined by knowing how great the world of adventure is, Heidi has dedicated her time and energy to continue her life of travel and adventure with her family. 

Adventure Travel: Seth Quigg on Himalayan Expeditions, Silk Road Journeys, Sustainable Tourism, Cultural Exchange, and the Karuna Project for Social Impact. In this episode, Curt speaks with Seth Quigg, an experienced outdoor educator and adventure travel guide. They discuss Seth's journey through the outdoor industry, the importance of cultural exchange and sustainable tourism, and the transformative power of adventure travel. Seth shares his experiences in the Himalayas, the Silk Road, and his work with the Karuna Project, which focuses on leveraging travel for positive social change. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection, personal growth, and the impact of adventure on individuals and communities.

Diving, Snorkeling: Mel Peddle on Mini Adventures Like White Water Snorkeling, Dinosaur Digs, Glacier Cave Wedding, and Embracing Everyday Exploration with Spontaneity and Community. Join us today as Curt speaks with Mel Peddle, a passionate adventurer who embodies the spirit of exploration through a variety of mini adventures. From white water snorkeling to dinosaur digs, Mel shares her experiences and insights on how to embrace adventure in everyday life. The conversation highlights the importance of community, spontaneity, and the joy of discovering local treasures. Mel's unique approach to adventure, including her unconventional wedding in a glacier cave and her love for mini golf, inspires listeners to seek out their own adventures and make the most of their time. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder to take risks and enjoy life while you can.

Gravel Cycling: Pro Cyclist Pete Stetina on Leaving Road Racing After Injury, Full Recovery, and Thriving in the Community-Focused Gravel Scene. After years of being in the biggest road cycling races in the world a devastating and life-altering injury left Pete’s career path felt shaken up and in need of more stability. 

Mountaineering, Land Speed Racing: Tom Kubiniec on Heavy Metal Roots, Mountaineering, Skiing, Speed Records, Risk Tolerance, and Turning Adventure into Business Success. In this engaging conversation, Tom Kubiniec shares his unconventional journey from being a heavy metal guitarist to becoming a successful entrepreneur and land speed record setter. We visit not only about speed records, mountaineering, and skiing, we also discuss the importance of quick decision-making, creativity, and risk tolerance in both adventure sports and business. Tom emphasizes how adventure sports provide clarity and focus, allowing individuals to embrace uncertainty and make decisive choices. He also highlights the significance of sales skills for turning passions into profitable ventures, and the value of simplicity in innovation. Through his experiences, Tom illustrates how adventure sports can serve as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

Archery: Sam Westfall on Therapeutic Archery for Veterans, Mental/Physical Healing, Community, and Life Lessons from the Sport. In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, Curt speaks with Sam Westfall, an Army veteran who uses archery as a therapeutic outlet for veterans and their families. They discuss the mental and physical benefits of archery, the community it fosters, and the importance of camaraderie among participants. Sam shares his personal journey with archery, its historical significance, and how it serves as a healing tool for many. The conversation also covers practical advice for beginners, safety in archery, and the deeper life lessons that can be learned through the sport.

Ziplining: “One Axe Fred” on Extreme Ziplines with Richard Branson, Active Volcano Crossings, and His Biggest Rigged Lines. “One Axe Fred”, as he’s known, is a thrill-seeking dare-devil that loves a good zipline across an extreme environment. Whether that’s in downtown Toronto ziplining with Richard Branson, or taking clients across an active volcano, Fred is willing to give it a shot! Today Fred joins us to tell us stories from some of his biggest rigged lines as well as what motivates him to do these crazy feats of adventure. 

Endurance, Cliff Jumping: Justin Wadsworth on Cliff Jumping, Wildland Firefighting, Ultra Marathons, Safety, Risks, and the Mental Escape of Adventure Sports. Listen in as we visit with Justin Wadsworth about his adventurous life, which includes cliff jumping, wildland firefighting, and ultra marathons. They explore the thrill and risks of adventure sports, the importance of safety, and the mental escape that comes with these activities. Justin shares his personal journey, including the motivation behind his jumps and the lessons learned from pain and challenges. The discussion also touches on the significance of community, stewardship of nature, and living life to the fullest.

Endurance: Ashly Winchester on World's Leading Women's FKT Record (39 Titles) and Her 165-Mile Death Valley Crossing Attempt. Ashly is no stranger to going out on a limb to follow a crazy idea. From driving 15+ hours through the night to climb a mountain, to leaving her stable career to become a freelance writer, she’s at home in the world of taking chances. 

Kayaking: Brad Burden on Whitewater Journeys, Gauley River Significance, Post-9/11 Healing, Safety, Urban Parks, and Reconnecting with the Sport. Today we catch up with Brad Burden, a passionate kayaker who shares his journey into the world of whitewater kayaking. They discuss the significance of the Gauley River, the impact of 9/11 on the kayaking community, and the healing power of nature. Brad emphasizes the importance of safety, understanding the class system, and the role of community in kayaking. They also explore the growth of urban whitewater parks and the accessibility they provide for new kayakers. Brad shares his experiences, tips for getting started, and the joy of reconnecting with the sport after a long hiatus.

Mountaineering: Jeff Jones on Decades of Climbing, Business and Family Benefits, Plus Upcoming Kilimanjaro Ascent for We See Hope Charity. Jeff Jones has been climbing mountains for decades. We visit about how mountaineering has contributed not only to Jeff's success in business but more importantly climbing mountains has provided amazing family experiences. Mountains are challenging, sometimes dangerous, and rewarding -- just like life. There are many benefits to mountaineering.

Mountaineering: Alenka Vrecek's 2500-Mile Solo Mountain Bike Journey from Lake Tahoe to Baja Peninsula for Healing and Resilience. At fifty-four, Alenka was running out of time to follow through on a dream she’d written down just after her first marriage crumbled. Years later, as she slowly rebuilt her life with her second husband, things started spiraling out of control with their health. The only way she knew how to heal and connect all painful parts of her life was by riding her bike, and she didn’t want to have regrets. But was she brave enough to embark on an unknown path and risk losing everything . . . perhaps even her own life?

Endurance: Epic Bill Bradley on Arrowhead 135 Attempts, Resilience, and Pushing Limits in Extreme Conditions. Join us as Curt Linville interviews Epic Bill Bradley, an endurance athlete known for his incredible feats in extreme conditions. Bill shares his journey from running a video store to becoming a prominent figure in the world of endurance sports. He discusses the challenges he has faced, including numerous attempts at the Arrowhead 135 race, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, and the importance of never giving up. Bill's story is one of inspiration, showcasing how he has turned setbacks into motivation and continues to push the limits of what is possible in endurance athletics.

Mountaineering: Matt Harmody's Kidney Donation Journey and Team Quest to Summit All 50 U.S. State High Points.

Skydiving: Pete Waldroop Shares 2800+ Jumps, US National Championships Medals in CRW and Freefall Formations. In this revisited episode from the first year of the show, Pete Waldroop shares exciting stories about his skydiving adventures. He had over 2800 jumps and was active in sky diving competitions, competing at the USPA US National Sky Diving Championships. He was awarded 1 bronze and 6 silver metals in various disciplines, including CRW formations, and four and eight person freefall formations.  

Sydney Petersen is a professional American trail and mountain runner from Crested Butte, Colorado, specializing in vertical and uphill races. She competes for the Brooks Trail Runners team and has rapidly emerged as one of the top U.S. athletes in the discipline, earning a spot on the 2025 Team USA for the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (WMTRC) in the Uphill (Vertical) event.

Listen in as Abby Galloway, a thru-hiker of the Colorado Trail, shares her transformative experience on the trail, discussing the challenges she faced, the people she met, and the lessons learned about herself and the outdoors. From navigating water sources to dealing with wildlife encounters, Abby emphasizes the importance of community, mental strength, and preparation in the hiking journey. She reflects on how the trail has impacted her life, instilling confidence and a sense of purpose as she continues her adventures beyond the trail.

Listen in as Steve Silk and Curt have tons of fun exploring the alternatives to over tourism, namely, biking the roads less traveled. Steve shares amazing experiences, helpful tips, and fun stories about cycling vacations in the UK. Steve has written two books on the subject. The first was Great North Road, and his newest book is Go West (linked below).

Join us as Chris Whitaker, founder of Global Shenanigans, shares his journey in the outdoor industry, the lifestyle of adventure sports, and the importance of building connections within the adventure community. Chris discusses the balance between passion and work, the challenges faced in the adventure sports career, and offers valuable advice for aspiring adventurers. He also shares memorable experiences from his adventures and emphasizes the significance of technical skills and certifications in the field.

On June 30th, 2013 Ron left his home in Cape Town, South Africa, in an attempt to cycle a single continuous journey through all 48 countries on mainland Africa (a world first), with the ultimate goal of reaching the UK in time to watch the South African National Rugby team at the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England. Just over two years later Ron had completed 42,000 km (26,000 miles), through 75 countries in total. Needless to say, a trip that changed his life. Oh, and South Africa lost the rugby game. 

"If you're not living on the edge, then you're taking up too much roof!"

Join in as Curt visits with Trevor Thompson, an adventure sports enthusiast with a focus on sustainable practices in outdoor activities. They discuss Trevor's experiences with bow hunting, backcountry skiing, and wingsuit base jumping, emphasizing the importance of connecting with nature and being ecologically responsible. Trevor shares insights on the risks of avalanche in backcountry skiing and the thrill of wingsuit base jumping, while also advocating for sustainable adventure practices that minimize environmental impact. The conversation concludes with a reflection on how personal choices can lead to a more fulfilling and responsible outdoor lifestyle.

Life changes in an instant. Military pilot, Ryan Ellison, found that out the hard way. Having aspirations to climb the highest mountains in the world was completely derailed by an angry goose. The encounter left his hopes and dreams no longer on the peaks and poles of our planet, but much lower… sea level. 

In this episode, Lisa Thompson shares her transformative journey from a corporate executive to a passionate mountaineer and coach. After summiting Mount Rainier in 2009, she became an avid climber, eventually completing the Seven Summits. Lisa discusses the challenges of climbing K2, the importance of inclusivity in the sport, and how her battle with cancer reshaped her perspective on life and climbing. She emphasizes the need for accessible pathways for women in mountaineering and the significance of setting audacious goals. Through her coaching and the recent acquisition of Mountain Madness, Lisa aims to inspire others to embrace the mountains and their own personal challenges.

Isaac Kenyon joins the Adventure Sports Podcast today to share ways to make adventure more impactful and purposeful. We visit about how critical mental well being is and how purpose driven adventure and caring for the environment and help to heal and empower others toward mental resiliency. We start by visiting Isaac's amazing feat of completing a solo iron man triathlon while wearing a 15 kg vest as a metaphor for how mental challenges can weigh us down and hold us back from living productive and rewarding lives.

Katie left her day job in 2014 with the goal of becoming her inner wonder woman. Within a month of accepting work onboard a tourist vessel in Antarctica, she sold her home, quit her job, and devoured all the cliff notes of known and unknown polar explorers. Over the course of many years, embracing a "let's do this!" mindset, she drove to Alaska with her dog, led polar bear tours in the Canadian Arctic, guided camping and hiking trips in Greenland, and lectured aboard the National Geographic Explorer in Antarctica. After many years of big living, she ultimately decided to reroot back home in Oregon... but not before crossing Greenland with a friend as a swan song to these years well spent. Join us as Katie takes us on a journey across the planet's 2nd largest ice sheet, learning through hardship and driven by discovery.

Today, Curt interviews Christian Beckwith, a mountaineer and historian, about the 10th Mountain Division and its profound impact on outdoor recreation in America. They discuss Christian's experiences in the Tetons, the history of climbing and skiing, and how the 10th Mountain Division shaped modern outdoor culture. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, connection to nature, and the ongoing fight for public lands.

Today’s conversation is with John Connelly about epic paddling adventures on not just the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, and not just the Maine Island Trail, but doing them together by connecting them with the St. John River and the Bay of Fundy; about 1500 miles in 75 days. Wow! But we don’t stop there. We also talk about canoeing the Florida Everglades and some impressive encounters with gators. Thanks for listening in!

Summiting mountains in South America, bikepacking in the desert and climbing classic big wall routes sound like epic adventures that you’d have to save lots of vacation days for, right? The travel alone would take up at least a day or two, especially for any international trips. Not to mention making arrangements for other responsibilities like kids, pets, work, etc. 

In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, Curt speaks with Rory Ginsburg, a passionate adventurer who shares his experiences and insights on living a lifestyle focused on adventure. Rory discusses his journey to Mongolia, the cultural exchanges he experienced, and the lessons learned from living with nomadic herders. He emphasizes the importance of epiphanies, the value of memories over material possessions, and the need to surround oneself with adventurous people. Rory provides practical advice for aspiring adventurers, encouraging listeners to seek out experiences that enrich their lives and foster a sense of community.

In this episode, Mike Ellicock shares his incredible journey of rowing around the UK, covering 1,820 miles in 49 days. He discusses the motivations behind his adventures, the planning involved, the physical and mental challenges faced, and the importance of community support. Mike also highlights the charity 'Support Our Paras', which aims to assist veterans and current soldiers. His story emphasizes the significance of setting ambitious goals and the transformative power of adventure.

Could Bigfoot truly exist? The mystery persists. New sightings are reported regularly, but could a large, bipedal primate remain so elusive as to evade capture for so long? In this revisited episode from 2018, Laura Kratz shares her research and conclusions on the matter. This episode stands out as one of the favorites. Afterall, who does not love a great mystery!

Today we visit with Erden Eruc who shares his transformative journey from a conventional engineering career to becoming an adventurer after a life-altering climbing accident. He discusses the challenges he faced while pursuing his dreams, including his remarkable circumnavigation of the globe by human power, which earned him multiple Guinness World Records. Eruc emphasizes the importance of nurturing dreams, overcoming obstacles, and the mental discipline required for long-distance ocean rowing. He also introduces his upcoming participation in the Golden Globe Race, a challenging solo sailing competition that requires traditional navigation skills without modern technology.

Louis D. Hall is a writer, public speaker, and founder of The Big Hoof, a Scottish-registered charity harnessing the power of long-distance horse journeys to champion mental health and wellbeing. Growing up in rural Scotland, Louis discovered his calling for epic travel early on. At 18, he trekked to northern Mongolia in search of the nomadic Tsaatan tribe, where his first encounters with horses ignited a lifelong affinity for their "connecting powers." This spark led to bolder quests: a solo 1,147-mile ride from Scotland to England's southern tip, raising £38,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust; and a grueling 111-day odyssey across Europe with his Arabian mare Sasha, blazing a pioneering trail through the snow-swept Ligurian Alps, storm-lashed Pyrenees, and partisan-haunted paths to Cape Finisterre, Spain—"the end of the land."

Alastair Humphreys is a British adventurer, author, blogger, and motivational speaker who promotes accessible outdoor experiences and environmental reconnection. He has authored a dozen adventure books, traveled around the world by bicycle, walked across India & Iceland, rowed across the Atlantic, and run several marathons in the Sahara, just to name a few exploits.

Today, Curt shares crazy stories about his love for water and learning to SCUBA dive. It was more than a little nuts and TONS of fun.

Join in as, Curt interviews Jeff de Graffenried who shares his experiences living and working in Africa for over a decade. Jeff discusses the challenges and rewards of conservation efforts, the importance of community relations, and the unique adventures of backpacking in African national parks. He highlights the risks of malaria, the significance of education and economic opportunities, and the need for habitat preservation. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of human well-being and environmental health, urging listeners to appreciate and protect the natural world.

In this revisited episode, Mason visits with Becca Boylan, a fifth generation Montanan who completed a 475 miles run across her home state to share the story of her mother's fight against Acute Myeloid Leukemia. The inspiration for the run came after Becca's experience helping her mother fight the disease for the past year and using running as a way to "metabolize" the emotions she was going through.

What a rewarding life experience to build community by having adventures with teens! David Kooharian joins us today to share his amazing experiences when he and some other families joined together to find challenges and adventures for their kids hiking, climbing, backpacking, and traveling. This is an inspirational episode that illustrates why adventure matters to families as well as to each one of us. Thanks, David!

In this episode, Curt interviews Dr. Tim Dobert and Leanna Carriere about their ambitious project, Wings of Survival, which involves a bike tour from Alaska to Patagonia following the migratory path of the Whimbrel coastal bird. They discuss their athletic backgrounds, the motivations behind their journey, the importance of environmental conservation, and the impact of storytelling in raising awareness about environmental care. The conversation highlights their previous adventures, the planning and preparation for their upcoming expedition, and the significance of community engagement and personal connections during their travels.

This is a CLASSIC! Travis interviews Allan about his book and his adventure riding exploits all over the world. If you like travel, adventure bikes, culture, and cuisine this don't miss this one. Karl's passion for exploration ignited on July 4, 2005, when he set off on a three-year solo motorcycle odyssey around the world, covering over 100,000 miles across more than 70 countries. This transformative trip, undertaken on his motorcycle nicknamed "Doc," inspired by historical explorers like Marco Polo and Ferdinand Magellan, took him through diverse terrains and cultures, from the Colombian jungle to the Indonesian volcanoes.

Listen in as we visit with Deirdre Wolownick, a remarkable woman who has achieved extraordinary feats in her later years, including climbing El Capitan and running marathons. Deirdre shares her journey of starting new adventures, the influence of her family on her pursuits, and the importance of setting goals and preparing adequately for challenges. She discusses her experiences with climbing, overcoming fears, and the lessons learned along the way. Deirdre also highlights her upcoming projects, including her documentaries and her book, 'Success in Seven Steps,' which provides a practical guide for achieving dreams.

Join in as Mark Agnew shares his incredible journey of kayaking through the Northwest Passage, detailing the challenges faced, the dynamics of his team, and the profound lessons learned about adventure, motivation, and resilience. He reflects on the shift in his personal motivations from seeking records to valuing the experience and relationships formed during the expedition. The discussion highlights the beauty of nature encountered, the importance of teamwork, and the deeper understanding of what it means to pursue adventure.

In this thrilling episode, we sit down with Jari Kirkland Hiatt, a trailblazing athlete who's conquered the wilds of Patagonia through grueling adventure races and represented the US in international ski mountaineering competitions. Jari shares gripping stories from multi-day expeditions involving paddling, trekking, biking, and orienteering in unforgiving terrains. She also offers insights on the mental and physical grit required for mega-scale adventures. Whether you're an aspiring endurance athlete or just love tales of human resilience, this conversation will inspire you to lace up and head outdoors. Do you have what it takes?

This is a crazy episode. Carl Mandrioli and Ben McAuliffe from the Backpacking and Blisters Podcast join Curt for lots of laughs as we banter about what the real dangers are when backpacking. Ben and Carl bring a lot of backpacking experience to the table with tons of fun stories and some great, entertaining ideas. We discuss everything from Big Foot to hypothermia, moose smooching to backpacking space aliens.

Have you ever paused to consider what a wonderful treasure our public lands are? Encountering the hugeness and majesty of our mountains, forests, and canyons through adventure is life altering. in this episode, Curt and Caleb Burns discuss our amazing public lands treasure and how access to these lands impacts people, communities and our understanding of our stewardship of nature. Adventure matters! Places for adventure do too!

If you like deep travel in amazing places, then this episode is for you. Daisy and Robert Kunstaetter take us on amazing accounts of trekking all over Peru. We talk about mountains, food, local cultures, jungles, grass swinging bridges, generosity, and earthquakes. What makes it all the better is that Daisy and Robert have recorded all the routes and know how in guide books so you can enjoy treks in Peru and Ecuador as well. This was one of my favorite episodes from about eight years ago. It is well worth the revisit!

Join us as Trapper Haskins shares his incredible journey of rowing the length of the Mississippi River with his wife Mandy, exploring themes of adventure, personal growth, and redemption. He recounts the challenges faced during the trip, the significance of the river in his life, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation also touches on his experiences with music and vintage baseball, highlighting the importance of community and connection in pursuing one's passions.

Matt Wolff joins us today to share what adventure is like in New Zealand! Here is a hint. New Zealand is its own, unique place! Tramping. Kayaking. Skiing. Crazy weather. Amazing Scenery. Hidden spots. Unknown trails. What a place! Matt helps us all to find our inner Kiwi!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Alexandra Heminsley, bestselling British author, journalist, runner and sea swimmer. In this episode, Alexandra shares her journey from publishing professional to acclaimed writer, delving into her memoirs Running Like a Girl & Leap In. We explore her insights on women’s experiences, and breaking stereotypes through her work in running and sea swimming. Alexandra shares how swimming in the cold sea, year around, impacted her self-concept and confidence.

In this conversation, Teresa Carey, a National Geographic Explorer and licensed captain, shares her journey through sailing, parenting, and science media. She discusses the importance of purpose-driven adventures, science, and the threats facing marine environments. Teresa emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to environmental challenges and the significance of being informed about these issues. The conversation highlights the enriching nature of adventure and the responsibility of individuals to engage with the world meaningfully.

Listen in as Curt interviews Austin Addis about the Maine Island Trail, a unique water trail that spans 375 miles along the coast of Maine, featuring over 200 islands. Austin shares his experiences kayaking the trail, discussing the geography, safety considerations, and the dynamic nature of water trails compared to traditional hiking. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, understanding tides, and the beauty of Maine's coastal environment, including its rich cultural history. The conversation also touches on personal reflections from Austin's solo trip, the significance of adventure, and the resources available for those interested in exploring the Maine Island Trail.

Pip Hare is a solo sailor and eighth woman in history to ever complete the Vendee Globe - a solo sailing race around the world known as the Everest of the Seas. Her adventures range from changing the rudder on her IMOCA 60 in the Southern Ocean during the Vendée Globe race to capsizing in the Bay of Biscay on passage to the Canaries

Join with Dan Camp, the general manager of Wildman Adventure Resort, as we talk about the hidden gems of Northern Wisconsin, particularly its outdoor adventure offerings. We discuss the surprising presence of class four whitewater rafting in the region, the lifestyle of adventure sports, and the importance of guiding in outdoor activities. Dan shares his personal journey into whitewater rafting and the joy of introducing others to the sport, emphasizing the value of experiences over material wealth. The conversation highlights the benefits of engaging in adventure sports for families and the significance of having trained guides to ensure safety and enhance the experience.

In this episode, Curt interviews Alexander Nilsson, a Swedish freediving record holder, exploring the depths of freediving, its mental and physical challenges, safety measures, and the profound experiences it offers. Alexander shares his journey into the sport, the importance of mindfulness, and the unique sensations of free fall. He emphasizes the significance of safety, especially in extreme conditions like ice diving, and discusses the various types of freediving competitions. The conversation highlights the mental training involved in freediving and how it translates to everyday life, encouraging listeners to embrace the calmness and be okay with life's challenges.

In August of 2019, Jonathan and his brother fast packed a North-South traverse of Iceland. They started in Akureyri and ended in Landmannalaugar where they met their parents for a few days of reprieve on the South side of the Island. In total, they ran/walked 170 miles in 5.5 days with around 20K vert. 

Listen in as Curt speaks with legendary surfers Milton and Michael Willis about their lifelong journey in surfing. They discuss their early experiences, the evolution of surfing culture, the importance of community, and the health benefits of being in the ocean. The Willis brothers share insights on surfing safety, particularly regarding rip currents, and delve into the thrill and spirituality of big wave surfing. They reflect on their experiences riding massive waves, including the iconic 100-foot wave, and emphasize the importance of respect for the ocean. The conversation concludes with a focus on their legacy and the mission of their organization, Think Waves, aimed at educating others about ocean safety and the joy of surfing.

Listen in as Curt visits with Moose Mutlow, an experienced outdoor guide and author, about his extensive background in search and rescue. They discuss the challenges and skills required for search and rescue operations, the impact of technology on outdoor safety, and the importance of calculated risk in adventure sports. Moose shares personal stories and insights from his experiences, as well as the themes explored in his books, which focus on the realities of accidents in the outdoors and the lessons learned from them.

In this revisited episode Mason visits with Karlos Bernart about his passion for touring by bike and how that grew from the necessity to learn the skills needed to complete the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Filled with the desire to create training routes in his local area of Florida, he discovered a talent for connecting green spaces and reviving old pathways and started inviting folks to join his crazy adventures…and they came willingly.

Curt speaks with Luke Zolnierowski, a champion of the Texas Water Safari, known as one of the world's most challenging canoe races. They discuss Luke's journey into canoeing, the unique challenges of training in a landlocked state like Colorado, and the camaraderie found within the canoe racing community. Luke shares insights into the race dynamics, the types of canoes used, and the physical and mental challenges faced during long-distance paddling. The conversation also touches on the beauty of nature experienced while canoeing and the importance of community in the sport.

In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, Dr. Kevin Stone, an orthopedic surgeon, discusses the importance of injury prevention and recovery in adventure sports. He emphasizes the role of mental focus, nutrition, and daily exercise in maintaining an active lifestyle. Dr. Stone shares insights on common injuries, advancements in orthopedic treatments, and the significance of physical therapy. He also highlights the joy of shared adventures and the need for balance in a busy life, encouraging listeners to prioritize play and adventure every day for a fulfilling life.

In today's revisited episode, Mason visits with Frazer Buntin who gives us an inside look at the winning formula that has allowed him and 12 buddies a trip-of-a-lifetime once a year, every year, for the last 15 years. The Big Trip! It’s a simple formula but following the steps rigorously is the only way Frazer and his friends are able to make it happen on a consistent basis. Maybe it’s a formula that you’d be willing to adopt for yourself and/or for your friends to guarantee your next amazing adventure will actually be put on the calendar. 

In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, host Curt speaks with Stephan Kesting about his remarkable canoeing adventure in the sub-Arctic, as detailed in his book 'Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic.' They discuss the nature of adventure, the joy of paddling, the challenges faced during the journey, and the ethics of taking risks, especially when family is involved. Kesting shares insights on preparation, risk management, and the role of community in solo adventures, ultimately highlighting how such experiences can lead to personal growth and a deeper connection with nature.

In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, host Curt Linville speaks with Kush Khandelwal, the host of the Ageless Athlete Podcast. They discuss the challenges and joys of aging as an adventure athlete, focusing on rock climbing and surfing. Kush shares his personal experiences with injuries, recovery, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, mindfulness, and self-awareness in pursuing adventure sports as one ages. They also explore the technical aspects of climbing and the romance of surfing, encouraging listeners to find joy in movement and adapt to changes in their sports as they grow older.

Ben Grannis is a 26-year-old cyclist from Ridgefield, Connecticut, who embarked on a significant bike ride across America to raise awareness about distracted driving. A 2017 graduate of Kenyon College, Grannis was inspired by his father’s 1977 cross-country bike trip and his own experiences working as a trip leader for Overland Summers, an organization that runs teen adventure trips. Motivated by the tragic death of Merritt Levitan, an 18-year-old killed by a distracted driver during a bike tour, Grannis launched the Eyes Up Ride to support Textless Live More, an organization focused on combating distracted driving and promoting digital wellness.

Join in as filmmaker Alex Harz shares his journey of creating a documentary about Mount Everest, focusing not just on the climb but on the cultural and spiritual significance of the mountain and the Sherpa people. He discusses his personal motivations, the challenges of climbing, and the profound experiences he had in Nepal. The conversation delves into the spirituality of the region, the Sherpa culture, and the impact of climbing Everest on both climbers and the local community.

Today, Curt speaks with Isaac Kenyon, an eco-adventurer and mental health advocate. They discuss the profound impact of adventure on mental wellbeing, the importance of taking risks, and the motivation behind Kenyon's various expeditions. Kenyon shares his experiences of swimming across the English Channel, rowing across the Atlantic, and cycling on water, emphasizing the lessons learned from each adventure. The conversation also delves into the significance of building a supportive team, the transformative power of nature, and the necessity of addressing mental health issues to foster a healthier society. Kenyon's mission is to empower individuals to connect with the environment and promote mental wellbeing through adventure.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jesse McNeil, adventurer and author of On the Hoof, to dive into his incredible 3,800-mile journey across the United States on horseback. Jesse shares the highs and lows of traveling with his horse, Pepper, and the life-changing lessons he learned along the way. From rugged trails to heartwarming encounters, this episode explores the grit, heart, and soul behind his memoir, the true tale of a voyage that broke a man down and built him back up, with the help of one special horse. At 36 Jesse McNeil — at times carpenter, commercial fisherman, dabbler in real estate — decided to buy an untrained horse, make himself into a horseman, and ride all the way across the United States, from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. A fiercely independent traveler, Jesse had navigated previous coast-to-coast trips — solo journeys by moped, bicycle, and small airplane. This time, however, he had a partner: a five-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse named Pepper. An inexperienced horseman with an equally inexperienced mount, Jesse would quickly discover the immense challenges of his new undertaking. Over the course of eight months and fourteen states — beginning in Oregon and ending on a beach in New Hampshire — he would be tested many times over as he learned not only what it took to keep Pepper safe and healthy, but the true value of qualities that he had once easily dismissed: patience and companionship.

Jacob Lemanski shares his incredible journey of cycling around the world for 999 days, covering 38,000 miles. He discusses the motivations behind his journey, the challenges he faced, and the profound lessons he learned about trust, humanity, and the beauty of the world. Jacob reflects on the impact of his travels on his life and how he has transitioned into leading bike tours in Colorado after his epic adventure.

In this conversation, Curt speaks with Caleb Burns, a mountain guide with extensive experience in adventure sports. They discuss the benefits of living an adventure-based lifestyle, the importance of guiding in outdoor activities, and the unique challenges of mountaineering. Caleb shares personal stories that highlight the significance of listening to one's instincts in the outdoors and emphasizes the value of hiring a guide for safety and logistics. The conversation also touches on the emotional and physical challenges of mountaineering and the rewarding experiences it offers.

Listen in as Mason interviews Angie about her "Adventure Fundraiser" involved climbing five Cascade Volcanoes in Oregon and Washington (including Mt. Rainier), as well as documenting the journey to make mountaineering more accessible to other women.

In this solo episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, Curt Linville discusses the importance of community in adventure sports, shares affordable hacks for getting started in various activities, and announces changes to the podcast format. He emphasizes the value of trying new sports without breaking the bank and encourages listeners to engage in adventure sports communities.

Join Andrew Todd, the visionary behind the Rocky Mountain Flyathlon, for an exhilarating dive into the world of conservation through recreation. As the founder of Running Rivers, Andrew combines his passions for fly fishing, trail running, and craft beer to create unique events that celebrate the outdoors while raising funds for native fish conservation. Andrew shares stories from the trails and rivers, and explores the innovative "side projects" of Running Rivers—like the Fastest Known Fish, Troutman runs, Fishslapping, and the Nascarp race. Tune in to discover how running, fishing, and a cold brew can make a difference for Colorado’s watersheds. Learn more at runningrivers.org.