David duChemin is a photographer, author, and adventurer whose work and words have helped countless creatives reconnect with the why behind their work, which plays perfectly into the story of this podcast. Known for his deep reflections on vision, presence, and the stories we tell with a camera, David brings a grounded honesty to conversations about creativity. He talks today about taking personal risk, his love of the wilds, his deep trust of animals and why travel is such a precious part of his life. To quote, “I don’t want to go through life having only experienced the World through the pages of National Geographic, I want to see it, and touch it and smell it.”

This week, I’m proud to announce something new. The Journey Beyond is a new travel venture for photographers, writers, and creatives heading to places like Mongolia, India, and beyond, not just to see, but to feel, listen, and make work that matters in an experiential way. More news on the show.

Also, from your letters, Anders Ekmark shares how he silences that inner troll when self-doubt creeps in. There’s a poignant farewell letter to Sebastião Salgado, penned by my friend Tomasz from Fujilove. Kelvin Brown talks about finding the courage to ask, “Can I make your portrait?” a deceptively simple but deeply human question, and Dennis Linden reminds us one more time for May, of this month’s One Word Assignment.

Links to all guests and features will be on the show page, my sincere thanks to Arthelper, who sponsor this show, plus our Extra Milers, without whom we wouldn't be walking each week.

WHY: A Sketchbook of Life is available here.