Life in Motion

n this episode we chat with Josh Bearman of Blue Sky Fund, a nonprofit that connects Richmond youth to natural environments through in-school, after-school, weekend and summer programs. Learn about Josh's captivating journey, from his rural upbringing, where he nurtured a deep connection with the natural world, to his career in education and his pivotal role in connecting youth to the wonders of nature. With a background in geology, marine science, and education, Josh is committed to bridging the gap between Richmond's youth and the great outdoors. As the Programs Director at Blue Sky Fund, Josh and his team offer a range of engaging programs, designed to connect young minds to the beauty and transformative power of natural environments. From the Elementary School Explorer Program to the Middle School Outdoor Adventure Club Program and the High School Outdoor Leadership Program, Blue Sky Fund provides diverse and immersive experiences that ignite curiosity, foster leadership skills, and cultivate a love for the environment. Their approach is grounded in a constructivist approach to science education, empowering young learners to become active participants in their own learning journeys. If you've ever wondered about the power of outdoor education in shaping young minds and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world, then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $31,114 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 155 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Danielle Katz of Rivers for Change. This inspiring nonprofit uses the power of adventure, conservation, and education to foster a deep connection between communities and rivers, all while promoting the essential concept of source to sea literacy. Danielle's lifelong passion for the water blossomed from her earliest memories, when at just four months old, she experienced the river through her dads white water rafting company. As her love for rivers grew, she embarked on a transformative journey in 2009, paddling source to sea down the mighty Mississippi River. This experience shifted her perspective on how we should interact with these precious waterways. Inspired to do something about it, Danielle co-founded Rivers for Change, merging her love for adventure with her dedication to conservation. Now, 14 years later, they are changing the way people perceive and engage with water through their impactful source to sea grants, river cleanups, and Sea School program. If you've ever wondered about the transformative power of water and how it unites us all, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 153 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of longevity and optimal health with Dr. Carl Giordano, an esteemed orthopedics and spine surgery doctor. Dr. Giordano's passion lies in guiding individuals towards a life of longevity and improved well-being. Through his extensive research on the intricate interplay between diet, exercise, and signal molecules, he has discovered methods to slow down the aging process and even reverse its effects. We explore the underlying causes of aging, uncover the distinction between lifespan and healthspan, and unveil the dietary and lifestyle choices that can enhance your longevity and overall quality of life. If you've ever wondered about the secrets to living a longer, healthier life filled with incredible adventures, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 153 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Alan Questel, author of 'Practice Intentional Kindness... And Like Yourself More' and a renowned trainer in the Feldenkrais Method. Discover how the Feldenkrais Method enhances movement, improves physical function, and expands self-image through heightened awareness. Alan's global teaching experiences have taught him the transformative potential of kindness and its profound effect on self-perception. Join us as we explore the different facets of kindness, from generosity to tough love, and learn how to cultivate your kindness capacity. Alan's book, 'Practice Intentional Kindness... And Like Yourself More,' offers a unique path to develop this essential skill. If you've ever wondered about the impact of intentional kindness on both yourself and others, then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 152 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Dacoda Londhair, a true adventurer and life explorer. From his outdoor roots in Colorado as a snowboarder, skater, and BMX rider, to his journey of self-discovery through travel and career changes, Dacoda's story is a testament to the nonlinear nature of life's journey. After experiencing burnout as a physical trainer, Dacoda took a leap of faith and left Colorado with little more than a few hundred dollars and the belongings in his car. He found himself in California, where he climbed the corporate ladder in the sales world. Along the way, he discovered the power of driving behavioral changes and developed a unique relationship with fear. However, Dacoda's path took another twist when he realized he needed to pivot once again. Selling everything he had, he embarked on a transformative journey to South America, seeking not to find himself, but to uncover who he wasn't. This soul-searching expedition refreshed his perspective and set him on a new course of creating his own businesses. Soon after he stumbled upon Masters of Fate, an opportunity that aligned perfectly with Dacoda's experiences and personal journey. Now, he is passionately helping countless individuals discover their values, needs, and driving forces to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. If you're looking for inspiration to embrace change, overcome fear, and "shake up your snow globe," then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 151 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Shahne Belveal of Trips for Kids, a nonprofit organization that provides educational biking programs for under-resourced youth. Shahne's journey from exploring his hometown in California on a bike to studying geography in college to working with outdoor education programs has led him to his current role with Trips for Kids. Through the organization's various programs, including trail rides, an earn-a-bike program and mobile bike workshops, Shahne and his team are helping young people experience the joy of biking while connecting them with nature. Hear how Shahne's journey has led him to use his passion to make a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of kids. If you've ever wondered how following your interests and passions can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths, then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 150 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Shep Roeper of Beyond Boundaries, a non-profit organization that provides adaptive outdoor adventure programs for individuals of all ability levels in Richmond, Virginia. Shep's journey began after he worked at an adaptive sports camp in California and returned home to find no similar programs in his community. Instead of accepting the situation, Shep and Kyle Burnette decided to take action and start their own program. Over the years, Beyond Boundaries has grown to serve over 1,700 individuals through over 200 programs in 2022 alone. Shep's passion has built a community of outdoor enthusiasts who believe that adventure is for everyone, no matter their physical, cognitive, or economic situation. If you've ever wondered what it's like to build a program to help others while creating a community around outdoor adventure, then this episode is for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcastSince 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,655 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 149 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Colton Chorpenning, co-author of "What The F Is Next". Colton grew up in the great outdoors of Colorado, spending his time snowboarding, fly fishing, camping, and exploring all that the world has to offer. After finishing college, he took a two-year trip around the world, embracing the digital nomad lifestyle and seeking new experiences in every new location. Colton applied the wisdom he learned from his father's work as a coach and counselor to navigate what to do next with his life. They turned these experiences into the book "What The F Is Next", which shares a practical and effective approach to self-discovery, helping readers identify not only what they want to do next, but also why it's important to them. Whether you're feeling stuck in a rut, unsure of what to do next, or simply looking for inspiration to take your life in a new direction, this episode is for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,160 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 148 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Chris Christie, coach, adventurer, and creator of The Mill, a new social platform that inspires new adventures while also doing some good. From skiing and fly fishing to walking from North Carolina to Maine with his adventure pup, Chris shares his passion for being outside and inspiring others to do the same. Including the bond he created with his son through the outdoors. Now he's using The Mill to reduce the barriers that stop people from doing their adventures. If you're ready to embrace the day and take that next adventure, this episode is for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,160 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 147 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Sonya and Necota Staples of Staples InTents. Their story is one of resilience, love, and the transformative power of the great outdoors. Sonya and Necota discovered their love for camping and overlanding during a difficult time in their marriage. Despite a less-than-ideal first camping experience, they realized that they could control their own happiness, and their outdoor adventures became a way to connect with each other and the natural world.
Inspired by their new passion for the outdoors and a desire to promote inclusivity in outdoor spaces, they started Staples InTents. They wanted to show people of color that they not only belong in the outdoors but can thrive in it. They also recognized the need for education and community in helping others feel more confident and curious about outdoor adventure. This led to the creation of The Gathering, a welcoming and comfortable space where everyone can learn and grow.
Sonya and Necota are not only inspiring others to get outside and connect with nature, but they're also building a supportive community where everyone can feel welcome. If you've ever wondered how saying yes to adventure and the outdoors can transform your life and others, then this episode is for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $30,160 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 146 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.