Character Talks

Some conversations deserve a second adventure.

We're running this one back!

In this special revisit of Character Talks, Chris Christie reconnects listeners with one of his earliest guests, Alastair Humphreys, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, author, explorer, and champion of the microadventure.

Alastair has cycled 46,000 miles around the world, rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, and explored some of the most remote places on Earth. But this conversation isn't really about those accomplishments.

It's about the person behind them.

Together, Chris and Alastair explore his chosen word: ADVENTURE.

From walking across Spain with no money and a violin he could barely play to discovering extraordinary experiences just beyond his own doorstep, Alastair shares why curiosity, uncertainty, and the willingness to be a beginner can open doors we never imagined.

They explore the fear of looking foolish, the importance of spending time outdoors, and why adventure doesn't have to be expensive, extreme, or halfway around the world.

Sometimes the greatest discoveries happen when we simply step outside, embrace the unfamiliar, and give ourselves permission to begin.

Originally recorded during the early days of what would become The Character Institute, this conversation feels just as meaningful today. It's a reminder that adventure isn't simply about where we go, but what we discover about ourselves along the way.

So here's a question worth considering: What have you been waiting to begin?

Welcome back to Character Talks.

One Word. One Conversation. Endless Possibilities.

CONNECT & EXPLORE

The Character Institute

Discover programs, outdoor experiences, and opportunities for personal growth and character development.

https://thecharacterinstitute.net

Alastair Humphreys

Explore Alastair's adventures, books, microadventures, and ideas for living more adventurously.

https://alastairhumphreys.com

A Special Thank You to Chad Hollister

A heartfelt thank you to our friend Chad Hollister for allowing us to feature his song "LIFE" as the theme music for Character Talks.

Chad is an incredible musician and an even better human being. We encourage you to explore his music and, if you get the opportunity, experience one of his live performances.

https://www.chadmusic.com

Thank you for being part of the Character Talks community. If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who might be ready for their own adventure.

What if the greatest act of perseverance isn't knowing when to keep going... but having the courage to stop?

In this episode of Character Talks, Chris Christie sits down with Kyndal Ray Edwards, known as A Walking Testimony, who has walked more than 12,000 miles across America sharing a message that has touched countless lives:

YOU MATTER.

Kyndal's chosen word is SISU, a Finnish concept representing extraordinary determination, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity.

But this conversation goes far beyond the miles.

Together, Chris and Kyndal explore addiction recovery, forgiveness, personal accountability, the pressure of living life in the public eye, and the reality that even those who inspire others are still navigating struggles of their own.

They consider the importance of pausing before reacting, listening before judging, and recognizing that sometimes the strength required to change direction is greater than the strength required to keep moving forward.

And beneath it all is a question worth considering:

Are we as willing to extend compassion and forgiveness to ourselves as we are to others?

This is a conversation about perseverance, vulnerability, connection, and the person we continue becoming along the way.

One Word. One Conversation. Endless Possibilities.

CONNECT WITH KYNDAL RAY EDWARDS

Follow Kyndal's journey and learn more about his mission, A Walking Testimony, and his message of hope, recovery, and human connection.

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

Website

Kyndal also supports Never Alone Recovery, an organization helping people find pathways to addiction treatment and recovery.

Make a Donation

CONTINUE THE JOURNEY WITH THE CHARACTER INSTITUTE

The Character Institute

https://thecharacterinstitute.net/

Roots to Peaks — Our Newsletter

https://growth.thecharacterinstitute.net/roots-to-peaks

Explore our programs, conversations, and communities designed to help people discover, develop, and demonstrate character.

SPECIAL THANKS — CHAD HOLLISTER

A heartfelt thank you to Chad Hollister for generously allowing us to feature his song “LIFE” as the theme music for Character Talks.

Chad's music captures the spirit of connection, gratitude, and possibility that we hope to share through every conversation.

We encourage you to explore his music, visit his website, and, if you have the opportunity, experience one of his live performances.

Chad Hollister

If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who might need the reminder that they matter.

And remember: Who you are matters more than what you do.

Character Talks is a production of The Character Institute.

Character Talks | Mish Sommers — Connection

What if the most important thing shaping your life isn't something you achieve... but something you notice?

Every episode of Character Talks begins with one simple question:

What one word has shaped your life?

When Chris Christie invited organizational development consultant, executive coach, outdoor leader, and lifelong learner Mish Sommers to join the conversation, she chose one word:

Connection.

What follows is a thoughtful exploration of leadership, intentional living, the outdoors, vulnerability, mindfulness, and the relationships that quietly shape who we become.

Together they explore:

• Why connection requires intention.
• The difference between reacting and responding.
• How nature helps us reconnect with ourselves.
• Why vulnerability is essential to meaningful relationships.
• How our strengths become even more powerful when connected with the strengths of others.

Whether you're a leader, parent, coach, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to live with greater purpose, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, look up, and reconnect—with yourself, with others, and with what matters most.

One Word. One Conversation. Endless Possibilities.

🌐 Bay Consulting
https://www.bayconsulting.me

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mishsommers/

✍️ Substack – mishisommers
https://substack.com/profile/92136781-mish-sommers

📬 Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Stories and reflections on adventure, leadership, character, and living with intention.

🌲 The Character Institute

Explore our leadership and character development programs.

🏕️ The Ascent Collective Community

Join our growing community built around connection, personal growth, and purposeful living.

🏅 Leading From Within — Athlete Version

Leadership development designed specifically for athletes who want to lead from within.

A heartfelt thank you to our friend Chad Hollister for allowing us to feature his song "LIFE" as the theme music for Character Talks.

Chad is not only an incredible musician but an extraordinary human being. We encourage you to visit his website, explore his music, and, if you ever have the opportunity, experience one of his live performances. His energy and heart are unforgettable.

https://www.chadmusic.com

If today's conversation encouraged you, challenged your thinking, or reminded you of someone who has helped shape your life, we'd love for you to share this episode with them.

The best conversations don't end when the microphones are turned off—they continue through the people we choose to share them with.

Thank you for being part of the Character Talks community.

Until next time…

Keep building character. Keep asking better questions. And never underestimate the power of one meaningful conversation.

What happens when curiosity becomes your compass?

In this episode of Character Talks, Chris sits down with adventurer, photographer, and explorer Dan Cox, a man who has built an extraordinary life by asking one simple question:

"Why not?"

Dan's adventures have taken him far beyond the ordinary. From kayaking over 2,000 miles from the Canadian border to Key West, to becoming the first person believed to have stand-up paddleboarded the entire coast of Maine, his story is one of curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

But this conversation isn't really about paddling.

It's about curiosity.

It's about setting meaningful goals.

It's about taking action before you feel ready.

It's about finding peace in solitude and discovering what you're truly capable of when you commit to something bigger than your comfort zone.

Dan's word for this episode is Curiosity, and together we explore how asking better questions can lead to richer experiences, deeper self-discovery, and a life filled with purpose and adventure.

Whether you're chasing a dream, navigating a season of uncertainty, searching for your next adventure, or simply wondering if you're capable of more, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step.

And don't miss one of the most powerful takeaways from the episode:

"Never quit on a rainy day."

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/dan_paddles/

Photography Website:
https://www.bethanydan.com/

Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, leadership insights, and practical tools for intentional living:

Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Explore our leadership and character development programs:

The Character Institute

Join The Ascent Collective, our growing community built around connection, personal growth, and purposeful living:

The Ascent Collective Community

Interested in leadership development for athletes?

Leading From Within — Athlete Version

A special thank you to our friend Chad Hollister for allowing us to feature his song "LIFE" as the theme music for Character Talks.

We encourage you to visit Chad's website, listen to his incredible music, and experience the positive energy he brings to every performance.

https://www.chadmusic.com

What does it mean to live an EPIC life?

In this episode of Character Talks, Chris sits down with Dr. Melissa Corley Carter, known around the world as The Barefoot Dancing Rocket Scientist.

Melissa's journey is extraordinary. She is a rocket scientist, seven-continent marathoner, astronaut reject, Air Force leader, speaker, certified professional coach, award-winning author, and creator of transformational experiences that help people reclaim their power and embrace their uniqueness.

But this conversation isn't about accomplishments.

It's about courage.

It's about taking giant leaps of faith.

It's about recognizing that you are already powerful, unique, and awesome—and that your greatest contribution comes not from what you do, but from who you are.

Melissa's word for this episode is EPIC, and together we explore what it truly means to live an extraordinary life with purpose, authenticity, and impact.

Whether you're navigating a life transition, pursuing a dream, searching for purpose, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger and live bolder.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR CHARACTER TALKS LISTENERS

Melissa is offering a FREE "Shine Your Light" card draw session for listeners who reach out within the first three months after this episode airs.

CONNECT WITH MELISSA

Website:

https://www.epiclifeactually.com

Book – Running the World:
https://www.epiclifeactually.com/runningtheworld

Running YOUR World Wisdom Card Deck:
https://www.epiclifeactually.com/runningyourworld

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissacorleycarter

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissacorleycarter

CONTINUE THE JOURNEY WITH US

Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more:
Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Explore The Character Institute and discover our leadership and character development programs:
The Character Institute

Join The Ascent Collective—our community built for connection, growth, and intentional living:
The Ascent Collective Community

Interested in leadership development for athletes? Learn more here:
Leading From Within — Athlete Version

SPECIAL THANKS

Special thanks to Chad Hollister for providing the song "LIFE."

Chad is a dear friend, and we encourage everyone to visit his website, listen to his music, and soak in all the good vibes.

chadmusic.com

What does it mean to live relentlessly?

In this episode of Character Talks, we sit down with Jonathan Simos—founder of NeuXist and host of the Excel Beyond Boundaries Podcast—for a powerful conversation on identity, resilience, and becoming who you are meant to be.

From building through adversity to breaking through perceived limitations, Jonathan shares lessons on mindset, personal mastery, and what it means to transform from the inside out. This conversation is a reminder that growth does not require perfect circumstances—only the willingness to continue showing up.

Because relentless isn’t about never struggling—it’s about never stopping your growth.

Connect with Jonathan:
Instagram: @JonSimos
Excel Beyond Boundaries: excelbeyondboundaries.com
NeuXist: neuxist-wellness.com

Continue the journey with us:
Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more: Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Explore The Character Institute and discover our leadership and character development programs:
The Character Institute

Join The Ascent Collective — our community built for connection, growth, and intentional living:
The Ascent Collective Community

Interested in leadership development for athletes? Learn more here:
Leading From Within — Athlete Version

Special thanks to Chad Hollister for providing the song “LIFE.” Chad is a dear friend, and we encourage everyone to visit his website, listen to his music, and feel all the good vibes:
chadmusic.com

Jenell’s journey is anything but ordinary. From being a young mother in a cult, to serving as a police officer, to making the bold decision to sell everything and embrace life on the open road, her story is a testament to what’s possible when you refuse to settle for simply surviving.

Now a seasoned solo RV traveler, Jenell has logged over 36,000 miles, visited 41 National Parks, and built a thriving community for others seeking connection, adventure, and independence. But beyond the miles and milestones, her life is guided by a powerful principle: intentionally creating a life that includes only what brings joy, meaning, and purpose—and courageously letting go of everything that doesn’t.

Her word is THRIVE—and she lives it fully.

This conversation dives into resilience, identity, women’s empowerment, and the beauty of designing a life aligned with who you truly are. If you’ve ever felt the pull to start over, simplify, or step into something more meaningful, Jenell’s story will both inspire and challenge you to rethink what’s possible.

Because thriving isn’t accidental—it’s a choice.

Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more:⁠Roots to Peaks Newsletter⁠

Special thanks to Chad Hollister for providing the song “LIFE.”Chad is a dear friend, and we encourage everyone to visit his site, listen to his music, and feel all the good vibes! Website: ⁠⁠https://www.chadmusic.com/⁠

What does metamorphosis really look like?

In this episode of Character Talks, we sit down with Brooke Barone — known to her community as Tat — to explore the raw, honest, and often messy process of transformation. Using the image of a butterfly and the “goop” stage we rarely talk about, Brooke shares how she turned pain into purpose and built Tat’s Corner into a thriving community rooted in hope, healing, and belonging.

As a mental health and personal growth advocate, entrepreneur, content creator, and founder of the Pinky Promise Project, Brooke lives out the belief that healing doesn’t have to be quiet. We talk about “Healing Loudly,” wanting something different for your life, and the courage it takes to grow through what tries to break you.

Her message is simple but powerful: even in the unseen — through every high and every low — there is hope. You are not alone. And when we stick together, we heal together.

Learn more about Brooke and all of her ventures at:
https://tatscorner.com

Follow Brooke on social media:
@xxTATQUEENxx (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter/X — and more)

Check out the Babbling Tat YouTube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/@babblingtat

Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more:
Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Special thanks to Chad Hollister for providing the song “LIFE.”
Chad is a dear friend, and we encourage everyone to visit his site, listen to his music, and feel all the good vibes!
Website: ⁠https://www.chadmusic.com/

Episode Overview — Zach Tidwell | Resilient

This is the heaviest — and most important — episode of Character Talks we have ever released.

The word that defines this conversation is Resilient.

In this powerful and unfiltered episode, we sit down with Zach Tidwell, a completely blind Marine Corps veteran who has become a living example of what it means to keep going when life feels impossible.

In 2019, Zach lost his sight following a suicide attempt. What could have been the end of his story became the beginning of something extraordinary.

With raw honesty, Zach takes us straight into the darkness — sharing the thoughts before and after attempted suicide, the battle with addiction, the long road of recovery, and the reality of facing a life-threatening disease.

But this episode is not just about what Zach has endured…

It’s about who he is becoming.

Today, Zach continues to push the limits of what’s possible — through adventuring, challenging assumptions about blindness, learning to code and build tools that create accessibility for others, and using his voice to impact lives far beyond his own story.

This conversation is real. It is heavy. It is scary. And it is deeply uplifting.

⚠️ Listener discretion advised: This episode contains strong language and open discussion of suicide, addiction, and mental health. It is not intended for young ears.

But for anyone who has struggled… for anyone who loves someone who has struggled… this episode is a reminder that you are not alone — and that resilience is real.

• Website: https://zachtidwell.net/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachctidwell/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-tidwell-9076852ab/

• X (Twitter): https://x.com/ZachCTidwell

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Zach-Tidwell-Host-of-Going-in-Blind/61556533676388/

• Going In Blind Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/going-in-blind-with-zach-tidwell/id1787306128

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (USA)
Call or text 988 — available 24/7

Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741

Veterans Crisis Line
Call 988, then press 1
Text 838255

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

You matter. Help is real. And reaching out is a sign of strength.

Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more:
Roots to Peaks Newsletter

Special thanks to Chad Hollister for providing the song “LIFE.”
Chad is a dear friend, and we encourage everyone to visit his site, listen to his music, and feel all the good vibes!

Website: https://www.chadmusic.com/

Connect with Zach TidwellMental Health ResourcesStay ConnectedMusic Credit

In this unforgettable episode of Character Talks, we welcome Adam Ezra — musician, adventurer, and storyteller — whose life and work are grounded in one powerful word: FAITH. 🌟

Through the peaks and valleys of his incredible journey — from playing for small crowds to building a nationwide movement of connection and hope — Adam has leaned on faith: faith in his path, his community, and the music that speaks when words sometimes fail.

Join us as Adam opens up about the moments that tested him, the experiences that shaped him, and the quiet strength that comes from believing in something bigger than yourself. It’s a conversation about trust, perseverance, and living a life led by heart — no matter where the adventure leads.

Get ready for a story that will move you, challenge you, and remind you that faith isn't just something you have — it's something you live. 🎶

Character Talks — celebrating the stories that build character, ignite passion, and inspire adventure.

To follow Adam and The Adam Ezra Group on social media:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Register for our monthly newsletter filled with inspiration, tips, thoughts, ideas, and more...

⁠Roots to Peaks Newsletter⁠