The Human Adventure

#116 - David Allen Tracy, a personal brand coach and intrepid adventurer, shares his extraordinary journey that spans continents and life-changing experiences. From his childhood exploring the rainforests of Panama to his nonprofit work providing medical aid in remote and dangerous areas, David's story is one of courage, resilience, and profound humanitarian effort. His collaboration with Panama's Air Force Navy and experiences in Haiti reveal the deep impact of humanitarian work, offering both logistical insights and heartwarming success stories that resonate deeply.

David's life took another dramatic turn with his battle against cancer, which infused his life with a renewed sense of purpose and an urgency to make every day count. He opens up about how surviving cancer changed his perspective on life, creativity, and the importance of contributing to the world. In a particularly touching segment, David recounts fostering Esther and the emotional journey of her return to her birth mother, showcasing the transformative power of love and support in personal development.

In the realm of personal branding, David emphasizes the importance of authenticity and uniqueness. With strategies drawn from his experiences in both nonprofit and business sectors, David discusses the transition from technical marketing to personal brand coaching, and the role of consumer psychology and personal styling. He introduces theta healing, a powerful method for overcoming mindset barriers, helping clients present themselves confidently and genuinely. Don't miss the insightful discussion on empowering transformations, where David likens his coaching journey to guiding caterpillars into butterflies, highlighting the rewarding nature of helping clients achieve their full potential.

To learn more about David and what he does as brand coach please visit his website www.davidallentracy.com.  As listeners of the show David is offering access to his Brand Masters Collective subscription which features weekly virtual workshops, a virtual resource center, networking opportunities and more.  Just visit www.davidallentracy.com/brand-masters-collective and use the code: bemyguest2024 to get access.

Thank you to listening to Journey with Jake each and every week.  Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to get to know me and my guests better.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#115 - What if life's unexpected twists could lead you to newfound passions and a brighter future? Join me as I sit down with Briana Medvecki, a former elite gymnast who turned a career-ending ACL injury into an inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery. Hear how she transitioned from the intense world of gymnastics to collegiate diving at Cal Poly University, embracing changes that reshaped her self-perception and confidence. Briana’s story is a powerful reminder that how we feel about ourselves far outweighs how we look.

From flipping on a mat at two and a half years old to diving off a platform, Briana's athletic career is a tale of perseverance. Despite injuries and relocations across California, she remained steadfast in pursuing her dreams, whether it was acro and tumbling, pole vaulting, or finally finding her footing in diving. She reflects on her journey from a Division II athlete at Azusa Pacific University to competing at a Division I level at Cal Poly, highlighting how adaptability and passion can drive success in both sports and professional endeavors.

Briana's journey is also a candid exploration of personal challenges and triumphs, from battling body image issues and an eating disorder to the exhilarating highs of spontaneous adventures like skydiving. Through therapy, social media, and a supportive community, she has rebuilt her life around healthy habits and self-care. Tune in to uncover the realities of collegiate diving, the emotional and physical toll of athletic injuries, and the importance of feeling strong and balanced over merely looking fit. Briana's story is sure to inspire anyone grappling with self-doubt or seeking to embrace life’s unexpected changes with confidence and strength.

Be sure and give Briana a follow on Instagram @bri_vecki.  I also encourage you to follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get a glimpse into my guests and my personality.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#114 - Can scuba diving be the ultimate stress-reliever for a high-pressure office job? Meet Giulia Uggias, a tax advisor from Hamburg who has discovered an extraordinary escape in the underwater world of scuba diving. With a rich multicultural heritage, being half Italian and half Russian, and fluency in multiple languages, Giulia’s story is more than just about diving; it's about embracing life’s depths and finding tranquility amidst chaos.

In our conversation, Giulia takes us through her exhilarating journey from recreational diving in the Carribbean Sea to the more demanding realms of technical diving. Listen as she recounts her first cave diving experience in Sardinia and her mesmerizing encounters with underwater cave systems in Budapest. Giulia also shares the meditative clarity and unique sensations of weightlessness while diving, comparing it to a serene, almost yoga like state. We discuss the rigorous certification processes and her dreams of exploring world-renowned dive spots like Tulum, Mexico.

Giulia’s passion for diving extends beyond personal fulfillment; it's also about making a positive environmental impact. Discover how she has been actively involved in conservation projects, planting sea grass and removing underwater debris in the Baltic Sea and Hamburg fjords. Through these efforts, she has gained confidence, a calm approach to life's challenges, and a platform to overcome personal insecurities. Follow Julia’s adventures on Instagram @scuba_giulietta and stay connected with us @journeywithjakepodcast for more inspiring stories. Don't miss our next episode, where we chat with Brianna Medvecky about her transition from gymnastics to the high dive at Cal Poly University!

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#113 - Ever wondered how a DC lobbyist specializing in defense and technology transitions into a fantasy fiction author? Join me for an extraordinary conversation with Joe Hilliard, also known as J.V. Hilliard, as he reveals how his real-life experiences in politics, diplomacy, and war have enriched his epic fantasy narratives. From the foothills of Pittsburgh to the creative freedom unlocked during the COVID-19 lockdown, Joe shares his journey and the influences that shaped his passion for fantasy worlds, including the inspiration drawn from his paralyzed uncle and lifelong love for Dungeons & Dragons.

Joe delves into the meticulous process of crafting epic fantasy worlds and characters, emphasizing the importance of world-building and planning the story's ending first. He offers insights on preventing writer’s block through detailed outlines, ensuring cohesive storytelling across multiple books. Learn about Joe's transition from writing a standalone novel to creating a full-blown fantasy series, guided by professional editors and a professor’s support. Discover how this initial endeavor blossomed into an expansive career, complete with video games and graphic novels inspired by his series.

Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit as Joe discusses his ventures, from owning magazines to adapting his book series into augmented and virtual reality video games. Hear about the challenges and excitement of translating his stories into various nonlinear mediums, and the creative process of envisioning his books as movies. Joe also shares the significance of building an author’s brand and audience, treating his writing career as a startup business. Tune in for a captivating episode filled with adventure, risk-taking, and the art of storytelling, perfect for anyone fascinated by the intersection of real-world experience and fantasy fiction.

To learn more about Joe and his books check out www.jvhilliard.com or on Instagram @jvhilliardbooks.  If you are interested in getting one of his books you can find them here at Dragon Moon Press.  

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#112 - Can financial constraints truly hinder your wanderlust? Join us as we chat with Linda King, the Smart Travelista, who proves that travel and savings can go hand-in-hand. Linda, originally from Sydney and now based in Melbourne, shares her unique blend of travel expertise and financial savvy. Her early experiences, including a life-changing four-month road trip across Australia, ignited her passion for exploration. Linda's story shows that adventure is possible for everyone, regardless of budget.

Experience the thrill of adventure through Linda's eyes as she recounts her childhood travel tales and the impact of those journeys on her personal growth. From traveling with her family across Australia to an unforgettable solo journey to Miami during a hurricane, Linda opens up about the resilience and readiness required for such adventures. Her reflections on shared travel experiences and their transformative power will resonate with every travel lover out there.

Discover the essence of solo travel and the joy of helping others from someone who's mastered both. Linda discusses the freedom and self-reliance that come with exploring alone, sharing details from a particularly memorable trip to Miami. She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and preparation, especially when faced with unexpected challenges like hurricanes. Wrapping up, Linda's thrilling tales of surviving a hurricane, an engine failure on a flight, and a brief detainment in China underscore the unpredictable nature of travel and the incredible stories it creates. Tune in to get inspired for your next budget-friendly adventure!

You can learn more about Linda by visiting her website www.thesmarttravelista.com and checking her out on Instagram @thesmarttravelista. 

As always be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and say hi.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#111 - Curious what it’s like to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for crystal-clear waters and remote island adventures? Imagine living on a catamaran while exploring the untouched beauty of French Polynesia and the Bahamas. Michael and Cassandre from Journey of MC join me to share their incredible stories and the life-changing impact of their off-the-beaten-path travels.

From serendipitous meetings in Chicago and globe-trotting escapades, Michael and Cassandre recount their journey filled with unexpected challenges and memorable moments. Listen as they describe their time navigating the pristine Exuma islands, the thrilling hunts for hidden tiki statues, and the cultural encounters in the San Blas Islands. Their tales of resilience and flexibility offer a treasure trove of insights for aspiring travelers balancing work and wanderlust.

Discover the magic of Bora Bora's glowing waters and the serene Valley of Hakeui on Nucahiva as Michael and Cassandre paint vivid pictures of their favorite destinations. Their humorous anecdotes, like navigating shoulder-high grass in search of a tiki statue, highlight the unpredictability and joy of exploration. Dive into their world and get inspired to plan your very own adventure, no matter how unconventional it might be.

Be sure and follow Michael and Cassandre on Instagram @journeyofmc.  You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get to know me and my guests just a little better.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#110 - What happens when a family decides to pause their conventional lives and embark on a year-long global adventure? Margaret Sullivan joins the podcast to share the captivating story of her family's extraordinary decision to take a gap year and explore the world with their young children. From corporate marketing in Lower Manhattan to fishing for piranhas in the Amazon, Margaret’s journey is filled with memorable moments that promise to inspire and entertain. Discover how this transformative trip reshaped their family dynamics and left them with a treasure trove of stories and lessons.

Balancing a career and family life in bustling New York City, Margaret and her husband decided to take a leap of faith. The challenges of planning and executing a year of constant travel with small children were daunting, but the rewards were immense. Margaret shares the highs and lows of their travels, including the everyday logistics and the unexpected joys of being together as a family 24/7. From hilarious misadventures to heartwarming connections, Margaret’s storytelling will have you laughing and reflecting on the nature of family and the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone.

Join us as we explore the profound growth and newfound perspectives gained from navigating different cultures and languages. Margaret's anecdotes, like the unforgettable experience of trick-or-treating in Tasmania, reveal how they embraced their vulnerabilities and celebrated their children’s resilience. The journey not only strengthened their family bonds but also led them to reassess their life priorities. Listen in for practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a sneak peek into Margaret’s book, "Following the Sun: Tales (and Fails) from a Year Around the World with Our Kids," capturing the essence of their life-changing adventure.

You can find Margaret's book on Amazon here.  I would also encourage you to check out her website www.margaretbensfieldsullivan.com and Instagram page @sullivanfamilyadventure for more information about her book and travels as a family. 

Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi!

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#109 - Kirsten Rudberg’s journey across the Camino de Santiago offers more than just tales of physical endurance; it’s a deep dive into the realms of solitude, personal growth, and the magic of unexpected generosity. Join us as Kirsten, a panentheist with a Master’s of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology, shares her transformative pilgrimage experience, shedding light on the profound lessons learned along the ancient path. Her stories reveal how embracing the unknown and facing fears head-on can lead to remarkable inner growth and a renewed faith in humanity.

But Kirsten's journey isn’t confined to the Camino. Growing up overseas with a father who built hydroelectric dams in developing countries, Kirsten developed a unique worldview that fuels her creative endeavors today. Whether she's podcasting, screenwriting, or crafting the animated series "Murder of Two," Kirsten’s diverse background and the challenges she faced adjusting to life back in the States have deeply influenced her work. She unpacks these experiences with humor and grace, offering listeners a fresh perspective on resilience and creativity.

This episode also delves into Kirsten's reflections on overcoming childhood adversities, including her parents' divorce and the cultural dissonance of returning to the U.S. These experiences have shaped her understanding of adventure as not only extraordinary journeys but also daily encounters that push us beyond our comfort zones. From navigating the Spanish coast’s challenging terrain to starting her own podcast, Kirsten's story is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown, meeting new people, and finding joy in solitude. Tune in to be inspired by her insights on personal growth, creative expression, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

You can find out more from Kirsten by visiting her website www.bytesizedblessings.com or checking her out on Instagram @bytesizedblessingspod. 

Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi.  I would love to hear from you.  If you have anyone you think I should have on the show or you would like to be on the show please email the show [email protected] and tell me why.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#108 - What drives someone to leave behind the chaos of their home city and embark on a global adventure? Chris Donaldson, an intrepid 65-year-old motorcyclist from Belfast, Northern Ireland, shares his incredible journey of riding a Moto Guzzi Le Mans around the world. From the conflict-ridden streets of Belfast to navigating the deserts of Sudan, Chris's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enriching power of unplanned detours. Tune in as we explore his decision to choose South Africa over Australia due to geopolitical turmoil, and how these unexpected changes crafted an adventure full of life lessons.

The thrill of riding a motorcycle has roots in Chris's early years, where the simple joy of pedaling a bicycle evolved into a passion for motorized bikes. We delve into his teenage years spent repairing a scrap Bantam, contrasting the mechanical simplicity of older bikes with today's digital complexity. Reflecting on life in Belfast during the 70s and 80s, Chris reveals how growing up amidst violence pushed him towards a life of global exploration, highlighting the broader impact of his upbringing on his outlook and adventures.

This episode takes you through Chris's reflections on aging and adventure, emphasizing that life’s challenges—whether navigating the Sahara or dealing with economic downturns—can lead to profound growth. Chris talks about the importance of self-reliance and resilience and how these traits have shaped his journey. We also discuss his book "Going the Wrong Way" and his ongoing adventures, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with tales of travel, family, and the undying spirit of adventure.

To learn more about Chris or order his book check out his website www.chrisdonaldson.world and check him out on Instagram @goingthewrongway_book.

I would love to hear from you.  Send me an email [email protected] or reach out to me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure. 

#107 - Embark on a photographic odyssey as I sat down with the remarkable Amber, whose lens has turned elopements into visual sonnets against Earth's most awe-inspiring canvases. Once a travel agent, Amber's trajectory to becoming an elopement photographer is a vibrant narrative of love, adventure, and the chance encounters that can shape our destinies. As she recounts her journey, your heart will travel through the quiet grandeur of Santorini's cliffs and the tranquil shores of Bora Bora, places where vows are whispered and forever is sealed in a frame.

In this intimate conversation, the allure of an elopement for the introspective adventurer becomes clear, and Amber's eye for immortalizing these moments elevates each story to a masterpiece of memory. She imparts wisdom for those drawn to the serenity of such intimate unions, painting a picture of the profound connections and experiences that come alive through her photography. And for anyone captivated by the idea of an elopement or just a fan of captivating love stories set against nature's majesty, Amber's Instagram account, @zephyretluna, stands as a gateway to the world through her perspective—a world where every snapshot beckons you to live your own adventure.

Please check out Amber's work by visiting her website www.zephyr-et-luna.com and her Instagram page @zephyretluna.

To get to know me and my guests better please follow me on Instagram @journeywithajakepodcast.  Please send me a note and say hi.  I would love to hear from you.

Discover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.

Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.