Welcome back to the GPS Training Podcast! This month Jon sits down with adventurer Ian Hughes, whose journey has taken him from leaving school with no qualifications to serving in the Royal Green Jackets, working as a deep-sea saturation diver, and now aiming for one of the biggest challenges on earth — the Explorers Grand Slam.

Tomorrow, Ian begins his GPS Training course ahead of attempting a solo, unsupported ski to the South Pole. In this episode, we hear his story so far, how he’s preparing, and what keeps him motivated to take on such extreme adventures.

Ian’s early years – from school to the army and beyond

Life underwater – his time as a commercial diver and running diving companies

Becoming an explorer – why he’s drawn to big challenges

The Explorers Grand Slam – what it is, and why he’s chasing it

South Pole prep – training, kit, and mindset for skiing solo and unsupported

Using GPS in polar expeditions – how tech plays a vital safety role

Motivation & resilience – lessons from pushing the limits

Support Ian’s Explorers Grand Slam attempt: GiveWheel page

Ian’s Instagram page