This week, we're honored to welcome Austin Whitehead from Salt Lake City, Utah, who made a pivotal decision 15 years ago that would shape the entire trajectory of his life. Growing up in suburban Charlotte, North Carolina, Austin felt the pull of something beyond the traditional path: a calling to step away, explore, and discover who he truly was before diving into college. Austin takes us on a journey through his transformative gap year, from that first step onto the Appalachian Trail as an 18-year-old, to working on organic farms in the Italian Dolomites, to returning as a caretaker at a legendary trail hostel. He describes those pivotal moments: breathing in the mountain air, finding simplicity in the rhythm of walking, and meeting people from all walks of life. These experiences gave him the context and confidence to pursue a life aligned with his deepest values. In this episode, we explore the profound power of the intentional pause, the difference between falling behind and gaining clarity, and how Austin's deliberate choice to take a gap year became an accelerator rather than a detour. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about listening to your inner compass, the medicine of moving your body in nature with others, and what it truly means to figure it out as you go, one adventure at a time.

This week, we're honored to welcome J'aime Nowak, an award-winning international keynote speaker, leadership expert, and author who has spent over three decades transforming the lives of business professionals. Growing up on a sprawling farm in Rhode Island, J'aime developed an early connection with nature that would become the foundation for her approach to success: a calling to help others find calm in the chaos through the grounding power of the natural world. J'aime takes us on a remarkable journey from her childhood in a 26-room house to losing everything at age twelve, traveling cross-country in an RV to find a new beginning. She describes how those early experiences in the forests and fields of her family's farm created an unshakeable bond with nature that would later become her secret weapon against the overwhelm of modern business life. That connection sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help professionals achieve extraordinary success while maintaining the peace and presence that truly matters. In this episode, we explore the profound concept of the "crazy train," that relentless pace of modern life that leaves us breathless and disconnected. J'aime shares how daily doses of nature, even as simple as standing barefoot on grass or walking through a eucalyptus grove, can transform stress into strength and chaos into clarity. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding success through presence, the healing power of ancient trees, and what it truly means to unleash your best self by reconnecting with the natural world around you.

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Terry Cumes, Managing Director of the world-renowned retreat center Willka T’ika, nestled in Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas. Raised in the U.S. yet deeply rooted in the Andes through family and spirit, Terry bridges two worlds, blending modern Western sensibilities with the ancient wisdom of Andean cosmology. Terry takes us on a transformative journey through the lush landscapes and spiritual heart of the Sacred Valley, where mountains are revered as living deities and the Quechua people honor Pachamama, Mother Earth, through rituals of gratitude and reciprocity. He shares the remarkable story of his mother’s vision to build Willka T’ika nearly 30 years ago, creating one of Peru’s first luxury wellness sanctuaries devoted to yoga, nature, and the spiritual traditions of the Andes. What began as a family dream has evolved into a destination for seekers from around the world, drawn to its sacred gardens, ancient energy, and timeless wisdom. In this episode, we explore the essence of Andean cosmology, including its three worlds of spirit, earth, and underworld, its deep reverence for the mountains known as Apus, and the practice of ayni, a guiding principle of balance and reciprocity with the natural world. Terry also shares how his Western business training and his father’s background in both medicine and shamanism inform his unique approach to leadership, wellness, and purpose. Join us for a rich and soulful conversation about finding harmony between modern life and ancient truth, reconnecting with the spirit of the earth, and discovering what it means to live in true reciprocity with the world around us.

This week, we're honored to welcome Sarah Safeer, a product manager in digital consulting based in New York City who has learned early on to prioritize experiences over things. Despite living in one of the busiest cities in the world, Sarah understands the grounding impact of nature and adventure, having traveled to 54 countries and counting while building an inspiring work-hard, play-hard lifestyle. Sarah takes us on a journey through her transformation from a shy child to a confident solo traveler and adventurer. She describes that pivotal moment during her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy, when she caught the travel bug and realized how much she wanted to prioritize new experiences and exploration in her life. That initial semester sparked what would become a lifelong mission to blend hard work with meaningful adventure. In this episode, we explore Sarah's solo adventure on the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia—a five-day, four-night hut-to-hut hiking experience that she undertook as a 25th birthday celebration to herself. Join us for an inspiring conversation about solo female travel, finding balance between city life and mountain adventures, the empowering nature of traveling alone, and how Sarah has crafted a life that seamlessly blends ambition with exploration.

This week, we are honored to welcome back Dr. Sandy Hazelip and Eleanor Hamby—the Two Traveling Nanas—on Inspire Campfire. At ages 80 and 81, these lifelong friends captured the world’s imagination when they circled the globe in 80 days, proving once and for all that adventure has no age limit. Sandy and Ellie first met more than 25 years ago after both becoming empty nesters and then widows. Best friends from the start, their bond was strengthened through shared service work in Zambia and a deep commitment to living fully. What began as a playful late-night idea—“Wouldn’t it be fun to go around the world in 80 days at age 80?”—turned into a viral sensation that inspired people of all ages and cultures. Their new book, Here We Go: Lessons for Living Fearlessly from Two Traveling Nanas, expands on the message that made them famous. From Antarctica’s icy shores to the starry Syrian desert to the majesty of the Grand Canyon, their adventures have brought wisdom, joy, and a fearless approach to aging. Packed with encouragement to “make some plans and live,” the book is both a memoir and a guide to embracing life’s next chapter with courage and connection. In this episode, Sandy and Ellie share stories from nights in remote villages, a hotel fire in Australia, and even a stint in a Russian jailhouse. Along the way, they reveal what friendship, resilience, faith, and saying “yes” can teach us about living a truly adventurous life—no matter your age. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Sandy and Ellie about friendship, fearless living, and the reminder that the real adventure isn’t just in where you go, but how you choose to live.

This week, we're honored to welcome Oliver Treviso from Swansea, Wales, an adventurer whose extraordinary journey embodies the transformative power of getting lost to find yourself. Facing uncertainty and conflict between who he believed himself to be and who he wanted to become, Oliver made a bold decision that would change his life forever. Oliver takes us on his incredible 20-month trek along the entire length of the Andes Mountains—from Argentina to Venezuela's Caribbean Sea. Covering seven countries and 14,000 kilometers on foot, he describes stepping off the plane in Argentina and feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of what lay ahead. In this episode, we explore Oliver's transformation from a young man struggling with his identity to someone who found purpose through adventure. He shares harrowing stories from the trail and the unexpected kindness of strangers. Join us for a conversation about finding strength through solitude, the power of taking that first step, and discovering who you are when everything familiar is stripped away.

This week, we welcome Paul Martino, Maria Martino, and Maria Wurtzbacher, who join host Scott Wurtzbacher to relive their fairytale on the Tour du Mont Blanc. A milestone-year idea became a self-guided loop of 100 miles around Mont Blanc across France, Italy, and Switzerland, 31,000 feet of climbing and 71 hours on trail, the kind of effort that turns friends into family. They share the shift from vacation to quest, the music of cowbells, quiet chapels that steadied shaky moments, balcony paths and a ladder section, even a helicopter’s rotor wash on an exposed cliff. There is laughter at border crossings and Sound of Music singalongs, a running joke about ham and cheese, and street dancing in Courmayeur, plus generous, family-run hospitality along the way. We explore what it takes to go from point A to point B each day, training and simple routines, smart support without a guide, and the four trip markers: come home safe, achieve the goal, laugh, and cry. Intentions are tested and met: getting strong at 50, doing hard things at 60, unplugging for two and a half weeks, and learning to let go of the watch. Say yes to big adventures, choose courage over comfort, and travel together with heart.

This week, we're honored to welcome Kijuan Amey, a resilient Air Force veteran, motivational speaker, and author of “Don’t Focus on Why Me.” Raised in Durham, North Carolina, Kijuan’s adventurous spirit and drive led him to serve as an in-flight fueling specialist in the United States Air Force, and to pursue entrepreneurial and academic goals. But everything changed in an instant when a motorcycle accident left him blind and facing a long, difficult recovery. Kijuan takes us on a powerful journey through his transformation from independent achiever to someone forced to confront unimaginable loss—and ultimately, to a passionate advocate for overcoming adversity. He shares the pivotal moment in his hospital bed when, after questioning “Why me?”, he found a new sense of purpose and faith, choosing not to let his accident define him. Instead, Kijuan embraced his love of music, especially drumming, as a source of healing and self-expression, and discovered new ways to participate fully in life. In this episode, we explore the depths of resilience, the importance of community and faith, and how Kijuan’s story inspires others to move beyond a victim mindset. Through vulnerability and humor, he reveals how he rebuilt his life, found meaning in empowering others who feel lost, and continues to break barriers as a speaker, coach, and adaptive athlete. Join us for an uplifting conversation about finding strength in the face of darkness, redefining what’s possible, and living with intention—no matter the challenges life brings.

This week, we're honored to welcome Sharyn Means, a New Zealand native and CEO of Dove's Rest Cabins, a stunning resort perched on the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. Growing up in one of the most southern Pacific islands in the world, Sharyn developed a deep connection to the land and the Polynesian concepts of Kiara and Manaakitanga—principles that would eventually transform how she approaches hospitality and land stewardship. Sharyn takes us on a journey through her transformation from corporate project manager to passionate advocate for meaningful hospitality rooted in something deeper than service. She describes that pivotal moment standing at the canyon's rim for the first time, feeling an immediate spiritual connection to the raw landscape and its rich history that would shape her future. That initial experience sparked what would become a mission to help guests disconnect from the outside world to reconnect with themselves, nature, and the profound peace that only deep rest can provide. In this episode, we explore the profound meaning of Kiara beyond simple welcome, the sacred concept of Manaakitanga in caring for land and people, and how Sharyn's blend of New Zealand spirit and Texas hospitality has created a bridge between luxury and authentic connection to place. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through passion, honoring the land while serving others, and what it truly means to provide a space for deep rest and renewal.

This week, we're honored to welcome Mal Roe, founder and original elopement photographer of Vows with Views. Growing up in rural Ohio, Mal’s early fascination with adventure and the outdoors eventually evolved into a calling—to help couples celebrate their love in the wildest, most breathtaking places imaginable. Mal takes us on a journey through her transformation from a small-town dreamer to a passionate creator of “Honey Lo” adventures—immersive, adventure-based elopement and honeymoon experiences. She describes that pivotal moment stepping into the Grand Canyon for the first time, feeling her world expand, and realizing she didn’t have to live a conventional life. That spark led to a life of saying “yes” to adventure, from hiking the John Muir Trail for 40 days and nights, to traveling the world, and ultimately building a business that blends her love for photography, the outdoors, and helping couples forge unbreakable bonds. In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of shared adventure, the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone, and how Mal’s unique approach to elopements creates lasting memories and connections. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding purpose through passion, embracing risk, and what it truly means to start a marriage with an epic adventure.

This week, we're honored to welcome Jessica DeAngelo, Chief Hiking Officer and founder of Hike to Become, with a background in global sales and strategy. Having worked with Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Nike, and Uber, Jessica made a dramatic pivot from the corporate boardroom to the hiking trail, where she discovered something profound—that nature holds the key to unlocking our greatest business potential. Jessica takes us on a journey through her transformation from high-achieving corporate executive to passionate advocate for nature-based business innovation. She describes that pivotal moment on a mountaintop in December 2023, when a simple question from her three-year-old daughter—'Mom, get off your phone'—sparked a revelation that would reshape her understanding of presence, purpose, and professional fulfillment. That moment of clarity led to her signature methodology and the creation of the Hike 31 Challenge. In this episode, we explore Jessica's accidental discovery of the transformative power of unplugged time in nature, her unique 'HIKE' methodology that combines movement, nature, technology-free time, and daily practice, and how she now guides business leaders and executives to their boldest, most innovative ideas on the trail. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding clarity through discomfort, the science behind nature's impact on our cognitive function, and what it truly means to hike to become who you're meant to be.

This week, in the final part of our Everest Base Camp series, we're honored to welcome Karen Darke, Paralympic gold medalist, and adventurer whose extraordinary journey to Everest Base Camp redefines what it means to answer the call to adventure. From her early days as a passionate explorer to overcoming a life-changing accident that left her paralyzed, Karen’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of saying “yes” to life’s boldest invitations. Karen takes us on a journey through her transformation from dreaming about adventure to living it—sharing the pivotal moment when a casual conversation sparked the audacious idea to trek to Everest Base Camp. What began as a vision quickly became a test of trust, surrender, and teamwork, as Karen navigated the unpredictable terrain of the Himalayas alongside a dedicated team, overcoming logistical hurdles, mechanical failures, and the ever-present doubts that accompany any great quest. In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of adventure beyond the summit photos: the surrender to the unknown, the profound connections forged with guides, porters, and fellow travelers, and the inner gold uncovered through both struggle and celebration. Karen’s story is a powerful reminder of the magic that unfolds when we trust the journey, lean on community, and allow ourselves to be transformed by the mountains—inside and out. Join us for a moving conversation about finding purpose through challenge, the art of surrender, and what it truly means to answer the call to adventure. Our guests take us through their transformative experiences trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp, where they joined Paralympic gold medalist Karen Darke in her remarkable journey. They describe those pivotal moments facing the challenges of high altitude, mechanical issues with Karen's specialized bike, and the breathtaking majesty of the world's highest mountain range. What began as a physical challenge quickly evolved into something deeper—a profound experience of human connection, present-moment awareness, and spiritual growth. In this episode, we explore the meaning of perseverance beyond its physical demands, the unique spirit of the Nepalese people, and how this journey became a catalyst for personal transformation for each guest. Keith shares the emotional journey of honoring his sister's memory, Clare discovers her ability to be truly present, and Sam reflects on finding life's true value beyond material possessions. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through challenge, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with an open heart.

This week, in part 2 of our Everest Base Camp series, we're honored to welcome three extraordinary adventurers from our recent Everest Base Camp trek: Keith Davis, a real estate investor from Eugene, Oregon; Clare Brown, an upland ecologist from Scotland; and Sam Van Keulen, a real estate investor based in Burgundy, France. United by their spirit of adventure, these three individuals joined host Scott Wurtzbacher on an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas. Our guests take us through their transformative experiences trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp, where they joined Paralympic gold medalist Karen Darke in her remarkable journey. They describe those pivotal moments facing the challenges of high altitude, mechanical issues with Karen's specialized bike, and the breathtaking majesty of the world's highest mountain range. What began as a physical challenge quickly evolved into something deeper—a profound experience of human connection, present-moment awareness, and spiritual growth. In this episode, we explore the meaning of perseverance beyond its physical demands, the unique spirit of the Nepalese people, and how this journey became a catalyst for personal transformation for each guest. Keith shares the emotional journey of honoring his sister's memory, Clare discovers her ability to be truly present, and Sam reflects on finding life's true value beyond material possessions. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through challenge, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with an open heart.

This week, we're honored to welcome Olga Bak, friend and advisor to Travel Nepal Himalaya's Treks, the local guide company that helped our group navigate the challenging journey to Mount Everest base camp. Developing an early connection with Nepal during her first trek in 2013, Olga's spontaneous "yes" to adventure evolved into something deeper—a calling to build bridges between travelers and this extraordinary Himalayan nation. Olga takes us on a journey through her transformation from first-time trekker to passionate advocate for Nepal. She describes that pivotal moment when she climbed a 4,000-meter peak at 3 AM to witness the sunrise, feeling surrounded by stars so close "it really did feel like we could just reach and grab them like apples from trees." That initial experience sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help others understand Nepal not just as a destination for mountain views, but as a place of profound spiritual and personal transformation. In this episode, we explore the meaning behind "Nepal: Never Ending Peace And Love," the unique character of the Himalayan landscape, and how Olga's relationship with guide Badri has created opportunities to support local communities. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through saying yes to adventure, embracing discomfort as a path to growth, and what it truly means to experience the transformative power of the mountains.

This week, we're honored to welcome Rue McKenrick, professional backpacker, conservationist, and the visionary behind the American Perimeter Trail—a 14,000-mile route that circumnavigates the continental United States. Growing up with a passion for both backpacking and conservation, Rue’s journey began with a simple idea: to be part of something bigger than himself and to create a lasting impact on the land he loves. Rue takes us on an epic journey from the spark of inspiration—born on a ski lift in Oregon—to the reality of walking the perimeter of the country, scouting a route that would become one of the most ambitious hiking projects in America. He shares the challenges of forging a new trail, the years of hesitation and self-doubt, and the pivotal moment when he finally committed to the adventure, despite limited resources and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. In this episode, we explore the deeper purpose behind the American Perimeter Trail: not just as a test of endurance, but as a mission to establish a protected corridor for land and natural resources, connect communities, and make outdoor recreation accessible across the nation. Rue discusses the profound connection between recreation and conservation, the importance of creating new opportunities for people to experience nature—especially in regions lacking public trails—and the economic and intrinsic value that protected wild spaces bring to communities. Join us for a moving conversation about overcoming fear, embracing solitude, and the transformative power of following a calling that refuses to be ignored. Rue’s story is one of resilience, vision, and the belief that ordinary people can create extraordinary change—one step, and one mile, at a time. Discover what it truly means to dream big, protect what matters, and find your purpose on the trail.

This week, we're honored to welcome Zack Luttrell, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and community builder from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up with an event planner mother, Zack developed an early talent for bringing people together that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to create authentic experiences that connect people through shared passion. Zack takes us on a journey through his transformation from corporate employee to visionary business owner. He describes that pivotal moment when, after losing his job during the recession, he turned his casual hobby of organizing Panthers fan events into a thriving community called Roaring Riot. What began as coordinating travel packages for friends to away games soon blossomed into a movement with thousands of members, dedicated tailgates, and international travel experiences that players themselves recognize from the field. In this episode, we explore his latest breathtaking venture—purchasing and restoring the historic SV Mandalay, a 102-year-old sailing cruise ship with a remarkable pedigree that once belonged to E.F. Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about betting on yourself, the importance of authentic human connection, and what it truly means to build community around the things you love—whether it's football fandom or sailing the Caribbean seas in board shorts instead of suits.

This week, we're honored to welcome Louis Alexander, a Guinness World Record-holding adventurer and endurance athlete from London. At just 25 years old, Louis has already achieved feats that most of us can only dream of—running marathons on all seven continents and swimming marathons in all seven seas. His journey has taken him from the frozen landscapes of Antarctica to the sweltering waters of the Arabian Sea, testing the limits of human endurance while raising tens of thousands of dollars for charity. Louis takes us on a journey through his transformation from an ordinary young man to a full-time professional adventurer. He shares the pivotal moment that sparked his passion for adventure—climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in honor of his late grandfather, Captain Rick Taylor, who inspired his mission to raise awareness for dementia. That first adventure ignited a fire within him, leading to a relentless pursuit of challenges that push the boundaries of physical and mental endurance. In this episode, we explore the mindset and grit required to take on such extraordinary challenges, the lessons Louis has learned from the world's most extreme environments, and the profound sense of purpose that drives him. From the Amazon Rainforest to the Arctic Circle, Louis shares stories of triumph, struggle, and the power of finding meaning through adventure. Join us for an inspiring conversation about embracing risk, building resilience, and using adventure as a force for good.

This week, we’re honored to welcome Stephan Kesting, adventurer, firefighter, jiujitsu practitioner, and author of the new book Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic. Stephan shares the gripping story of his thousand-mile solo canoe expedition through the Canadian Subarctic—a journey he undertook after recovering from a life-threatening illness and a kidney transplant. Stephan recounts how a near-death experience reshaped his perspective on life, inspiring him to finally pursue a decades-long dream of exploring one of the most remote and unforgiving regions of the world. From battling treacherous rapids and harsh weather to a chilling encounter with a bear, Stephan’s story is one of courage, resilience, and calculated risk-taking. He reflects on the lessons he learned about perseverance, risk management, and the fleeting nature of time. Join us for an inspiring and raw conversation about chasing your dreams, overcoming adversity, and finding meaning in the wilderness. Please listen, subscribe, and share!

This week, we're honored to welcome Bryan Murphy, creator and host of the popular podcast and social media brand "Hawaii's Best." Growing up in Southern California, Bryan developed an early fascination with the Hawaiian Islands that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to share Hawaii's magic with the world. Bryan takes us on a journey through his transformation from casual tourist to passionate advocate for responsible travel to Hawaii. He describes that pivotal moment stepping off the plane for the first time, breathing in the warm Hawaiian air, and feeling an immediate connection that would shape his future. That initial visit sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help others experience Hawaii not just as a destination, but as a way of life centered around the spirit of aloha. In this episode, we explore the profound meaning of aloha beyond its marketing use, the unique character of each Hawaiian island, and how Bryan's media brand has become a bridge between visitors and locals. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through passion, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with aloha. Please listen, subscribe, and share!

This week, we’re honored to welcome Niki DiGaetano, a death doula from Salt Lake City, Utah, who has dedicated her life to supporting those at the end of theirs. Niki had long felt called to work with the dying, but it wasn’t until a 2022 section hike of the Appalachian Trail that she found the confidence to fully embrace that path. After her journey on the trail, she told friends, "If I can find work that allows me to listen to people’s stories—the good, the bad, the ugly, traumatic, and triumphant—it would be the truest work of my soul." That realization led her to become a death doula, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support to those facing life’s final transition. In this episode, we explore the profound connection between living and dying, the wisdom nature imparts, and how Niki’s time on the trail shaped her approach to compassionate care. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about what it truly means to live well—and die well. Please listen, subscribe, and share!