Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast

Dive into a one-of-a-kind episode this week as I sit down with software industry leader and passionate fly fisherman, Tim Huckaby. Tim's career has led him to work with tech giants like Microsoft and hop on stage with legends like Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer, but it's his adventures on the river and in the wild that truly inspire him.

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What Happened: I didn't mean to create a world-famous fly. Honestly, I just wanted something that wouldn't fall apart mid-float.

It started with a cheat.

I jacked a foam-folding technique from Charlie Craven (legendary fly tier) and started riffing. I was fishing the Upper Kern, and those trout were demolishing grasshoppers. Like full-on buffet mode. So I tied up something massive—ugly from the top, perfect from below—and boom. The Kern River rainbows went nuts.

I named it the Huck Hopper.

Fast forward a few years: I'm fishing around the world. Behind guides' backs, I quietly swap in my Frankenfly. Next thing you know, they're demanding to know what it is. And I'm FedExing Huck Hoppers at 3 a.m. because some poor guy "needs 'em for Patagonia."

I even spun up an e-comm site. "Nobody will buy them," I thought.

Wrong.

Principle: Sometimes, what sets you apart isn't how polished your idea is—it's how deeply it solves a problem only insiders truly understand. Real traction often comes from obsession and imperfection—not slick branding or mass appeal.

Transition: A lot of outdoor entrepreneurs and creators make the same mistake I almost did: thinking your thing has to be perfect or pretty before it's worth sharing. Or worse—waiting for permission. The truth? Your "ugly" prototype might be someone else's holy grail.

That's why so many talented people stall out: they're waiting to be validated, to be "ready," or for some guru to give them the green light.

That's Why: That's why we brought Tim Huckabee onto the podcast—he's proof that your passion project doesn't have to be fancy to make waves. Whether you're into fly fishing, side-hustling, or building gear people actually want, this episode shows how relentless curiosity, a bit of rebellion, and a lot of river time can create something unforgettable.

Call to Action (PAS-style): If you've been second-guessing your scrappy idea, overthinking every detail, or stuck in "not good enough" mode—this one's for you. Listen now to hear how Tim turned a back-of-the-boat experiment into a globally loved gear essential.

Follow up with Tim: https://www.timhuckaby.com/

The fourth of 4 Episodes with Outdoor Adventure Photographer Sergio Bolivian providing tips and advice to improve your adventure photography.

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Show Notes

WHAT HAPPENED – Personal Story:

There I was, deep in the Amazon, camera in hand, soaking in this explosion of color—bright blue water, rusty orange clay, jungle green overhead, and that soft golden light photographers dream about. The kind of scene that doesn't just ask to be photographed—it demands it.

So what did I do?

I lined up my shot, textbook rule-of-thirds style. Sky in the top third, water in the bottom, everything "perfect."

But something felt… off.

That's when I said screw it, let's break some rules. I shifted the frame. Horizon smack in the middle. My boat creeping in from the corner, becoming this perfect leading line. It looked weird… until it didn't. Until it looked just right.

It was one of those rare, unrepeatable moments. In five minutes, the light would shift, the river would curve, and that magic scene? Gone forever. But because I trusted my eye over the rulebook, I got the shot—and every time I look at it, I feel that moment again.

PRINCIPLE:

Here's the thing—creative freedom doesn't mean ignoring the rules; it means understanding them well enough to know when to ditch them. Composition is a tool, not a cage. The rule of thirds, leading lines, all that jazz? It's there to guide your storytelling, not police it. Your camera is just the vehicle. You're the driver.

TRANSITION:

But so many of us get stuck. Not because we're not "creative enough," but because we cling to the rules like a safety blanket. We're afraid to break out of the grid and trust our own visual instincts. And let's be honest—most beginner photographers aren't struggling because they don't have the gear. They're struggling because they're trapped by formula, instead of finding their own rhythm.

THAT'S WHY:

That's why this episode with Sergio is a breath of fresh, Amazonian air. We dive into composing wild spaces with intention, not restriction. We explore how to blend intuition with technique so your photos tell your story, not just the story the rulebook approves of.

CALL TO ACTION:

Tired of taking "technically correct" photos that still feel flat? Frustrated when your shots don't match what you felt in the moment? Listen to this episode now and start capturing the kinds of images that make people stop and feel something

In this episode, host Rick Saez sits down with acclaimed outdoor writer Dave Zoby, whose evocative essays and stories have graced the pages of top magazines like Gray's Sporting Journal and The Drake.

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Why Some of My Best Stories Are About Not Catching Fish (and Why Editors Still Say Yes)

What Happened:

I didn't grow up out West. I grew up in a shipbuilding town where "outdoorsy" meant mowing the lawn. So you can imagine the culture shock when I moved to Wyoming. Suddenly, public land was everywhere, the rivers were full of trout, and I had this wild idea to write a poem about duck stamps and send it to Gray's Sporting Journal.

Back then, submissions weren't digital. I had to physically print the thing, drive to the post office, buy a stamp, and drop it in a mailbox. It felt like time travel. But lo and behold, they wrote me back. Not a rejection. Not silence. A real, live editor wrote back. And that one little poem opened the floodgates.

I started pitching stories. I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew how to tell the truth. Not the glossy, influencer kind of truth—more like "I went fishing, caught nothing, but had a spiritual epiphany about life and Labrador Retrievers" kind of truth.

Turns out, those are the stories that stick.

Principle:

The biggest myth in outdoor storytelling? That you need epic wins to earn a voice. You don't. You need honest stories—ones that carry the smell of pine, the sound of bugling elk at 2 a.m., and the feeling of wrestling a kayak into submission while your dog watches, judging.

Real stories about imperfect trips and imperfect people—those are the ones that resonate. That's how you connect. That's how you build a community. And that's how you create something editors actually want to publish.

Transition:

But here's the rub—most aspiring outdoor storytellers are waiting for their "perfect" moment before they write. They think they need the big trophy, the remote trip, the Instagram-worthy fish. Meanwhile, the real stories—the good ones—are sitting right in front of them, getting ignored.

That's why:

That's why this episode with Dave Zobe is a masterclass in grounded, gritty, authentic outdoor storytelling. We dig into the messy, beautiful reality of writing what you know—dog hair, bad Spanish, missed shots and all—and why that's what truly moves readers.

Call to Action:

If you've been waiting for your story to be "epic enough" before you tell it, you're missing the point. Listen to this episode now and learn how to turn your everyday outdoor life into stories that sell—and connect—with real people.

Follow Dave: https://linktr.ee/davezoby

The third of 4 Episodes with Outdoor Adventure Photographer Sergio Bolivian providing tips and advice to improve your adventure photography.

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Show Notes

Ever tried hiking 12 miles with a 40-pound camera bag? Yeah... I did . . . Once.

What Happened: I used to think the more gear I carried, the better photographer I'd be. Every lens, every filter, every tripod head—I looked like REI exploded on my back. But halfway up a steep ridge in the Sierra, gasping for breath, I thought my buddy Sergio—he carries two cameras, two lenses, zero sweat. Dude casually composes shots while I am usually auditioning for a Gatorade commercial.

That's when it hit me. It's not about carrying everything. It's about seeing everything better—with less.

Principle: Packing light isn't just about saving your spine. It forces you to become more intentional. To stop overthinking the gear and start trusting your eye. That's what makes your photography sharper—physically and creatively.

Transition: Most outdoor photographers think they need the "perfect" gear setup to get "the shot." But what if that mindset is actually what's holding you back? Lugging around unnecessary equipment, over-editing photos, relying on gear instead of instinct... sound familiar?

That's why: That's why this week's episode with Sergio is a must-listen. He breaks down exactly how he shoots stunning landscapes with a lean kit, no filters, and a mindset honed from decades in the field. If you've been overpacking, overthinking, or just overwhelmed, this one's for you.

Call to Action: Struggling to capture powerful images because your bag's heavy, your process is clunky, or you're stuck in gear paralysis? Listen to this episode and finally learn how to shoot with clarity—literally and creatively. 🎧 [Tune into the episode now]

This week on The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, Rick sits down with Jason Reckers, a long-time force behind the scenes at the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). Jason shares his journey from building tech startups in California to becoming COO at ATTA and now, his new mission to build connections between travelers and responsible tour operators through exciting projects like Adventure.Travel.

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How a Free Lunch Changed the Course of My Career (Seriously)

What Happened (Personal Story): Picture this: I'm sitting in a random California lunch spot, just expecting a free sandwich. I'd been doing some web development work, helping businesses slap together websites during the FrontPage era (yeah, that old-school).

Next thing I know, I'm getting pitched by two guys with big dreams and zero dollars about reviving this global Adventure Travel Trade Association. They needed a website, and in return? They'd buy me lunch.

Was it logical? Nope. Was it exciting? Absolutely.

I had spent years going to sterile tech conferences where unless you were knee-deep in code, you were invisible. But this adventure travel crowd? They were warm. Welcoming. Passionate. People who actually made eye contact and talked about things like culture, conservation, and sleeping under the stars (not just server downtime).

So I said yes. And twenty years later, here we are.

Principle: Here's the thing I learned: It's not about being the "most adventurous" or having a perfect résumé. The outdoor adventure industry thrives on real relationships and a shared belief that travel should mean something—to the traveler and the planet. You don't need to summit Everest to belong. You just need to show up, be open, and give a damn.

Transition (Problem Identification): However, most people believe they need to have a grand, rugged origin story to break into this space or make a mark. They wait for "enough experience" or the "right time" to get started. Meanwhile, they miss the magic of community, connection, and purpose that this industry actually runs on.

That's Why: That's why this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast is so special. We dig into the stories behind the scenes—from scrappy beginnings to global summits—and the real human relationships that power this movement forward. If you've ever felt like you didn't quite "fit in" to the adventure mold, this one's your invitation to come as you are.

Call to Action (PAS style): Think you need to be the most extreme, experienced, or expert outdoorsy person to make an impact? Think again. Stop letting imposter syndrome hold you back—there's a place for you here. Listen to this episode now and find out why.

The second of 4 Episodes with Outdoor Adventure Photographer Sergio Bolivian providing tips and advice to improve your adventure photography.

In addition to shooting for destinations, brands, and publications, he also offers photography expeditions in South America, particularly focusing on Bolivia.

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I'd love to hear your feedback about the show!

You can contact me here: [email protected]

What Happened (Personal Story) I used to believe that capturing epic travel shots was all about finding the right moment. You know—the sunset, the summit, the perfect smile. Until I took a trip with a friend who'd studied under National Geographic photographers.

Day one, we hiked for hours to a viewpoint. I pulled out my camera, lined up the shot, and BAM—caught the golden light perfectly hitting the valley. I was thrilled. My friend, though? He didn't even blink. "Cool," he said, "But where's the rest of the story?" Turns out, he wasn't just snapping random cool shots—he was building a five-frame story: who, what, where, when, and why.

And suddenly, that single "epic" shot of mine felt... empty.

I watched him plan his shots before we even set up camp, getting up before dawn to catch headlamps in the dark, positioning himself on the other ridge for the silhouette. It wasn't luck. It was intentional, strategic, and powerful.

Principle Your travel photos shouldn't just be pretty—they should speak. One great image is nice, but a well-crafted story in five frames? That's unforgettable. The real magic happens when you stop chasing moments and start anticipating narratives.

Transition The problem is most people don't know this. They think epic shots just "happen," or worse—they wing it and hope for the best. But capturing adventure isn't about waiting around with a camera. It's about preparing like a storyteller and thinking like a guide. If your photos aren't landing the way you hoped, it's not your talent—it's your approach.

That's Why That's why this week's Thursday Drop with Sergio Ballivian is a must-listen. We're breaking down the mindset behind visual storytelling on expeditions—how to capture moments that speak volumes without needing eight months or a magazine budget. Whether you're heading to Bolivia or your local hiking trail, these are the mental shifts that'll upgrade your storytelling forever.

Call to Action Still coming home with 300 photos and no story? That's the pain. Worse—you're not even sure what you're missing. That's the agitation. The solution? Tune in to this week's Thursday Drop and finally learn how to tell the story your photos deserve.

👉 Listen to Episode 515 now: [Insert Link]

Follow up with Sergio

Sergio Photo Tours

Today I'm talking with Luno founder Peter Ducato. Peter is a seasoned entrepreneur and product specialist for the passenger building brands that blend, design, and impact. He's the founder and CEO of Luno, redefining outdoor adventure by turning vehicles into comfortable, ready-to-camp spaces.

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He Slept in His Car to Save Money… Then, Accidentally Created a Category

What Happened (Personal Story Style):

A few years back, Peter D. found himself freezing in the back of a Subaru Outback somewhere near Mammoth Mountain. The wind was howling, the tent felt like a bad idea, and hotels? Not exactly college-student budget friendly.

So what did he do? He cozied up in his car with a flimsy hiking pad—and by "cozy," I mean he survived. Barely.

But that freezing weekend ended up being the beginning of something much bigger. When Peter got back home, he grabbed a tape measure, climbed into the back of his car, and started sketching ideas. Because surely sleeping in your car didn't have to feel like punishment.

Fast forward a few years—and a misprinted mattress valve later—and Peter had pioneered in-vehicle camping, launched a category-defining brand, and built a company that not only weathered a pandemic launch, but sold out in a month.

Principle:

What I love most about Peter's journey is this: he didn't wait for the perfect conditions. He leaned into what bugged him. He didn't need a fancy van or huge investors. He started with a real problem, his own two hands, and a stubborn refusal to accept that the outdoors had to mean discomfort.

That's a principle worth holding onto: Sometimes the best ideas are born in the middle of discomfort—and yes, even in the back of a freezing Subaru.

Transition:

Too many of us think we need ideal circumstances before we act. The perfect setup, the funding, the five-year plan.

But maybe what's holding you back isn't the market or the money—it's waiting for conditions to be "just right." It's believing that if you're not ready now, you'll never be.

That's Why:

That's why I love this episode. It's not just a founder story—it's a permission slip. To start where you are. To use what you've got. To trust that the worst nights can become the best ideas. And to remember that even if you mess up (like mislabeling thousands of mattress valves), people will root for you if you're honest and human.

Call to Action (PAS Style): Still waiting for "someday" to start building your thing? That delay is costing you more than time—it's robbing you of momentum. Skip the wait, get inspired, and hear how Peter turned a freezing night into a thriving company.

👉 Click here to listen now and upgrade your camp sleep set up.

Follow up with Peter: peter.ducato @lunolife.com.

The first of 4 Episodes with Outdoor Adventure Photographer Sergio Ballivian providing tips and advice to improve your adventure photography.

In addition to shooting for destinations, brands, and publications, he also offers photography expeditions in South America, particularly focusing on Bolivia.

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Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Sign up for my Newsletter HERE

I'd love to hear your feedback about the show!

You can contact me here: [email protected]

What Happened (Personal Story) I used to believe that capturing epic travel shots was all about finding the right moment. You know—the sunset, the summit, the perfect smile. Until I took a trip with a friend who'd studied under National Geographic photographers.

Day one, we hiked for hours to a viewpoint. I pulled out my camera, lined up the shot, and BAM—caught the golden light perfectly hitting the valley. I was thrilled. My friend, though? He didn't even blink. "Cool," he said, "But where's the rest of the story?" Turns out, he wasn't just snapping random cool shots—he was building a five-frame story: who, what, where, when, and why.

And suddenly, that single "epic" shot of mine felt... empty.

I watched him plan his shots before we even set up camp, getting up before dawn to catch headlamps in the dark, positioning himself on the other ridge for the silhouette. It wasn't luck. It was intentional, strategic, and powerful.

Principle Your travel photos shouldn't just be pretty—they should speak. One great image is nice, but a well-crafted story in five frames? That's unforgettable. The real magic happens when you stop chasing moments and start anticipating narratives.

Transition The problem is most people don't know this. They think epic shots just "happen," or worse—they wing it and hope for the best. But capturing adventure isn't about waiting around with a camera. It's about preparing like a storyteller and thinking like a guide. If your photos aren't landing the way you hoped, it's not your talent—it's your approach.

That's Why That's why this week's Thursday Drop with Sergio Ballivian is a must-listen. We're breaking down the mindset behind visual storytelling on expeditions—how to capture moments that speak volumes without needing eight months or a magazine budget. Whether you're heading to Bolivia or your local hiking trail, these are the mental shifts that'll upgrade your storytelling forever.

Call to Action (PAS Framework) Still coming home with 300 photos and no story? That's the pain. Worse—you're not even sure what you're missing. That's the agitation. The solution? Tune in to this week's Thursday Drop and finally learn how to tell the story your photos deserve.

👉 Listen to Episode 513 now: [Insert Link]

Follow up with Sergio

Sergio Photo Tours

#outdoor adventure photography, #travel photography tips, #visual storytelling, #adventure travel, #visual narratives, #mini assignments, #photo stories, #storytelling in images, #composition tips, #landscape photography, #travel photography tips

Today I'm talking with Karina Armijo from the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division. As Director of the Outdoor Recreation Division for the State of New Mexico, Karina is dedicated to advancing sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that benefit communities, empower youth and foster economic growth across the state.

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What Happened:

I'll be honest: when I first heard the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division had pumped $28 million into trails and parks, I pictured paved walking loops and dusty brochures.

Then I spoke with Karina Armijo.

She casually dropped stories about tribal bike parks where kids are launching off jumps with mountains as their backdrop. About a labyrinth the size of a football field—built to heal, connect, and invite. About how four people (yes, just four!) are personally walking communities through grant applications to make sure everyone feels heard.

It's not just about the trails. It's about pride. Ownership. Identity.

This isn't a government division tossing out cash. It's communities rising up, saying, "We want a piece of this, and here's how we'll make it our own."

Principle:

Access to the outdoors isn't just a luxury—it's infrastructure for mental health, community resilience, and economic revival. And it should be built with people, not just for them.

Transition:

Too many towns think, "We don't have the budget for something big," or "No one will show up." But often, it's not money that's missing—it's a seat at the right table, the right story, and a champion to back them up.

That's Why:

That's why I brought Karina onto the show. To prove what's possible when community-driven ideas meet a team willing to hike the bureaucratic switchbacks with you. This episode isn't just about outdoor grants. It's about reimagining what your community could become—if someone believed in it first.

Call to Action

Feeling stuck watching your town stay overlooked while others boom? It's not your fault. You've been missing the support—and the belief—you deserve. Listen to this episode now and see how real transformation starts with one trail and a whole lot of heart.

👉 [Listen to the full episode here]

#New Mexico Outdoor Recreation, #outdoor recreation grants, #Outdoor Equity Fund, #rural communities, #tribal communities, #trail infrastructure, #economic development, #youth programs, #Sabinosa Wilderness, #New Mexico tourism

Get ready for an inspiring journey into the heart of adventure and purpose on this episode of The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast! Host Rick Saez sits down with legendary polar explorer, speaker, and activist Sunniva Sorby. From her early days trading a computer programming job in Norway for a wild leap into outdoor leadership, to groundbreaking expeditions across Antarctica and the Arctic, Sunniva shares how embracing risk and finding her "tribe" at A16 shaped her life's trajectory.

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You can contact me here: [email protected]

From Boardroom to Blizzard: What Adventure Taught Me About Showing Up

What Happened:

I used to be a computer programmer in Norway. Yep—cubicles, keypads, and killer boredom. Until one day, I stumbled on a pamphlet during a visit to my mom in Montreal. It was for an outdoor leadership school in Alberta.

A few weeks later, I'd quit my job, ditched the keyboard, and traded banking spreadsheets for snowshoes. That decision launched a life of adventure I never imagined—from working at A16, where I found my first "tribe," to skiing across Antarctica, and even tracking a polar bear named Violet in the Arctic wilds.

But here's what really shifted everything.

After one particularly brutal expedition where I was sick, exhausted, and convinced I couldn't take one more step, I realized something that changed me forever: Strength isn't about pushing through until you collapse. It's about listening to your body, honoring your limits, and knowing when to ask for help.

That moment stripped away my ego—and gave me something far more valuable: clarity.

Principle:

Too many of us think success means crossing the finish line—no matter the cost. But the truth is, the finish line isn't what matters most. It's who we become along the way. And if you're only measuring strength by how much you can endure, you're missing the deeper lesson adventure teaches: real courage is found in slowing down, tuning in, and showing up—again and again, even when it's hard.

Transition:

The problem is, most people wait for the "right time" to go after what they want. But that moment doesn't come with a red carpet. It often shows up disguised as fear, discomfort, or a tiny whisper that says: "There's more out there for you."

If you've ever felt stuck in your head, waiting for certainty before taking the next step—you're not alone. It's not that you're lazy or lacking discipline. You've just never been shown a different way to move forward that honors your humanity and your ambition.

That's Why:

That's why we recorded this episode. To remind you that the wild isn't just out there—it's in you. Whether you're chasing polar bears or your next big idea, your journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's. But it does have to start with one thing: action.

Call to Action:

Feel stuck in your own head and unsure how to take the next step? That uncertainty isn't a dead-end—it's your invitation. Tune in to this episode and learn how outdoor adventure teaches us to push past fear and step into purpose, one moment (and one polar bear) at a time.

🎧 [Listen to the episode now]

Follow up with Sunniva