The Human Adventure

#106 - Embrace the pulse of perseverance and youthful ambition through the experiences of Kambrie Wilkinson, a trail-blazing runner ready to conquer the peaks of Utah and the tracks of collegiate competition. My conversation with Kambrie isn't just about her swift strides on the racecourse; it's a heart-to-heart on how a mother's nudge led her from a dabbling multi-sport athlete to a committed runner whose story is as inspiring as the mountain trails she loves. Together, we unwrap the nuances of what it means to grow with a sport—discovering the joys and shaping influences running offers against the rugged backdrop of Utah's landscape.

Every runner knows the stomach's flutter before the starting signal, but not every runner learns to harness it as Kambrie has. Our dialogue traverses the inner battles and team alliances that stitch the fabric of distance running. Beyond strategies like visualization, we reveal the cultural tapestry and lingo that differentiate the raw, natural allure of cross country from the calculated rhythm of track events. Kambrie's tale is a reminder of the beauty found in the shared grit and the unexpected friendships forged at the finish line.

As Kambrie stands on the cusp of her college journey at Utah Tech University, she shares the proactive steps and heartfelt decisions in the college recruitment dance—a testimony to her drive and determination. She's not just running towards an athletic career; she envisions a future rich with education, coaching, and adventures that span the globe. So whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer curiously eyeing those laced-up shoes, Kambrie's chronicle, illuminated on Instagram @runnerkam, invites you to explore the pathways where ambition meets passion. Join us for an episode that's not just about the race, but about the enduring spirit that carries us through life's marathons.

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. 

#105 - Embarking on a journey of health and hope can be as daunting as it is illuminating, and Elwin Robinson's story is a testament to the transformative power of wellness. Born to an international family, Elwin faced early health challenges that set him on an explorative quest for understanding. I have the privilege of delving into Elwin's remarkable transformation and his profound insights into living a hopeful and fulfilling life, despite once being ensnared by minimum wage realities and a negative mindset.

Every struggle carries the seed of opportunity, and this episode is rife with stories of overcoming and finding purpose. Witness how Elwin's significant health shift propelled him into a deep personal introspection, catapulting him from merely surviving to resolutely thriving. His candid recollections of family complexities and his own battle with trauma underscore the resilience of the human spirit.

Concluding our discussion, we unravel the often-overlooked influence of genetics on health and behavior. Elwin shares a surprising personal discovery about lead poisoning, highlighting the critical interplay between environmental factors and our genetic predispositions. The threads of health, partnership, and the pursuit of significance are intricately woven throughout this episode, inviting you to reflect on your own tapestry of life.

To learn more about Elwin and his work with health and genetics you can check out www.geneticinsights.co or chech him out on Youtube.

Check out my Instagram page @journeywithjakepodcast and check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.

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. 

#104 - When the balance beam of life meets the vault of ambition, where do you land? Lundyn VanderToolen, a high school senior on the cusp of collegiate gymnastics, joins me to untangle this convergence. We kick off our chat with Lundyn’s evolution from a five-year-old with a beam in her eyes to a seasoned gymnast with dreams bigger than a perfect 10. The heart of her story is rooted in family support, as she recounts the influence of her sisters and the strength she draws from her Utah upbringing.

Navigating the rigorous twists and flips of an athlete's life, Lundyn walks us through her emotional decision to transition from elite gymnastics to a path that realigns with her joy and well-being. It's a poignant reminder that sometimes stepping off the podium can lead to a more fulfilling journey. We tuck into the complexities of balancing the weight of expectations with personal aspirations, and Lundyn's candid reflection on parental support sheds light on the universal struggle to find one's own footing.

By the time Lundyn maps out her recruitment journey to Utah State University, we're all on the edge of our seats, eager to vault into her future. The chapter on faith, gymnastics, and gratitude serves as a floor routine for the soul, where Lundyn demonstrates the grace of navigating decisions with trust and the importance of cherishing team bonds. Her story is not just one of athletic prowess, but an ode to resilience, growth, and the camaraderie that forges the heart of a gymnast. Join us for an episode that vaults beyond the gymnastics mat and lands squarely in the realm of life lessons and leaps of faith.

You can follow Lundyn on Instagram @lundynv2024.

You can follow 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. 

#103 - When Scott Gurian, a journalist with a knack for embedding himself in the marrow of the world's less-trod paths, tells the story of the Mongol Rally, you can't help but lean in closer. I had the pleasure of peeling back the layers of Scott’s 11,000-mile trek in a vehicle that's barely more at home on the vast steppes than a fish on a bicycle. His voice brings the landscapes alive, from the UK to the heart of Mongolia, regaling us with the kind of cultural exchanges that turn travelers into storytellers and storytellers into the sort of friends who make the global seem local.

As Scott and I chatted he found himself reflecting on his own transformation from an adventure-averse high schooler to a globe-trotting journalist. The discussion meandered through the backstories that shape a journey, like reporting on Mexico's Zapatista movement and the brotherly bond forged over 18,000 miles of open road. Scott's stories aren't just pins on a map; they're reminders that the world is wide, and the roads we choose can change us, challenge us, and charge us with tales worth telling.

Our conversation took unexpected turns, as all great journeys do, touching on Scott's personal quests—from seeking a healing stone in Peru to the introspective throes of an ayahuasca ceremony. He shares his ongoing aspirations and the cultural connections that continue to beckon him across continents. And for those of you with itching feet, Scott's insights are a siren call to embrace the spontaneous, the serendipitous, and the frankly astonishing warmth and hospitality that can be found in the unlikeliest of places. So, wherever you are, buckle up and let's hit the road with a true maestro of the map, Scott Gurian.

You can find more about Scott and his podcast Far From Home by visiting www.farfromhomepodcast.org or checking out his Instagram @farfromhomepodcast.

Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.  I would love to connect with 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. 

#102 - Imagine the ground beneath your feet giving way, plunging you into darkness. That's how Dan McQueen's world changed when a brain hemorrhage in 2014 left him grappling for the basic threads of life. Join me as I sit down with Dan in an episode that promises to grip your heart with a story of indomitable courage. Together, we navigate the jagged path of Dan's recovery, where every step, word, and smile became a milestone in his extraordinary journey. His approach to turning rehabilitation into a game shows us the profound power of positivity in the face of pain.

Skiing down Grouse Mountain might seem like an everyday activity for some, but for Dan McQueen, it was a summit of triumph, a pinnacle that marked his return to life's passions after a grueling decade-long hiatus. This episode is not just about the celebration of physical milestones; it's a deeper revelation of how setting audacious goals can ignite the human spirit. Dan's emotional reunion with the nurse who saw him at his most vulnerable, now witnessing his victorious descent, punctuates our conversation with a raw, powerful testament to the resilience within us all.

Ending on a note that resonates beyond the personal, Dan's transition into motivational speaking magnifies the impact of his narrative. It's a message that echoes through hospitals and into the halls of the Canadian Bureau of Speakers—championing the idea that the lens through which we view our world often holds the key to transforming it. As we wrap up our time together, Dan reminds us that his story, as remarkable as it is, serves as a mirror reflecting the untapped potential that lies dormant within each of us, waiting for the spark of inspiration to ignite.

Be sure and check out Dan by visiting his website www.macqueendan.com.  You can also check him out on Instagram @macqueendan.  While you are at it if you have not done so please give me a follow 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. 

#101 - Embark with me on a narrative voyage where Carol Springer, the vibrant voice behind the 'Where Next' podcast, captures our imagination with tales of her ever-changing journey through life's seasons. From the snowy frontiers of Minnesota to the sun-kissed peaks of Colorado, we traverse her personal atlas, unpacking the dreams that unfold as the nest starts to empty. Carol's spirit is as infectious as her stories are inspiring, painting a vivid picture of anticipation for her son's potential baseball stardom and her own future exploits.

Turning the pages of our life's book, we find ourselves leafing through the chapters that have crafted our hunger for exploration and the experiences that beckon us beyond our comfort zones. Carol shares her mosaic of adventures, from the thrill of blackwater rafting down under to the reflective charm of local Colorado getaways, mapping out how our zest for life adapts with each act. Carol and I muse over the delicate interplay of raising families while nurturing the wanderlust that whispers sweet promises of exotic locales like Hawaii and Thailand, proving that the spirit of adventure knows no age.

As the conversation weaves through the dynamics of work, travel, and the magnetic pull of family, Carol's insights offer a tantalizing glimpse into the life of a business owner with itchy feet and a heart rooted in home. Whether it's embracing the cultural tapestry of a nearby Buddhist temple or mulling over the practicalities of a future in bustling cities, her experiences are a compass guiding us toward our own travel aspirations. Together, we celebrate the notion that every ending is simply the prelude to another grand journey, inviting listeners to consider where life's next chapter might take them.

You can follow Carol and Where Next Podcast on Instagram @wherenextpodcast.

Be sure and give me a follow 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. 

#100 - When you hit a hundred of anything, it's worth throwing a party, and that's exactly what we're doing here on Journey with Jake as we ring in our 100th episode! Join your host Jake (thats me) and my effervescent guest host Rick Bamford, as we stride down memory lane, reliving the belly laughs, the slip-ups, and the heart-tugging stories that have painted the vibrant canvas of this podcast. It's a chance to bask in the shared human experience with stories that span from the quaint streets of Pinedale, Wyoming to the awe-inspiring peaks of Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Our celebration wouldn't be complete without revisiting that spark of wanderlust that keeps our hearts yearning for the next adventure. So, we've reconnected with some of my past guests including Cole Young, Dave Preston, Matt and Cheryls Schoss from Were in the Rockies, Daniela from @monorailmagic_,  and Shelby Mann from Ground Up Adventures.

It's not just about where we've been; it's about the people who've journeyed with us. This centenary episode is drenched in gratitude for our listeners, the guests who've brought their stories to our stage, and the serendipitous connections that have blossomed into invaluable friendships. Our tapestry is rich and far from finished. So, whether you're tuning in from Germany, Australia, or anywhere in between, know that your companionship fuels this show. Here's to the next hundred episodes—each step, each story, each shared moment engrained in the soul of Journey with Jake.

To follow along with these past guests see their Instagram and website information below.

Matt and Cheryl Schoss - Instagram @wereintherockies  website  www.wereintherockies.com and YouTube  @WereintheRockies

Cole Young - Instagram @the_cole_young

Dave Preston - Instagram @davidpre.me

Daniela - Instagram @monorailmagic_ and YouTube  @monorailmagic_

Shelby Mann - Instaram @groundupadventures website www.groundupadventuresco.com and YouTube @groundupadventures

Rick Bamford - Instagram @lord_rickster

And as always give me a follow 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. 

#099 - Embark on a transformative journey with me as I sit down with Colleen Avis, a masterful storyteller and coach who intertwines the sacredness of spaces with personal growth. Her book "Sacred Spaces," reflects the profound impact our environments have on our well-being, and through our discussion, we discover how vulnerability can be a powerful tool for connection and inspiration. Sharing our own stories, we illuminate the path from fear to joy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the spaces around us as mirrors of our inner world.

Venture into the heart of personal stories with the collaborative book project "Sacred Spaces Subtle Shifts for Mind, Body, and Home Transformation." Each narrative within this collection offers not only a tale of resilience but also practical tools for empowerment. Colleen opens up about overcoming personal adversity, learning from her mother's unwavering spirit in the face of financial hardship. These intimate revelations foster a sense of community, underscoring the belief that our shared experiences can become a wellspring of collective healing.

In this episode, we explore the nuanced yet powerful influence of small mindset shifts, capable of leading to profound life changes. Colleen and I discuss strategies for fostering positivity, such as embracing life's little victories and cultivating curiosity about the world around us. The episode also delves into personal transformation, showcasing the evolution of identity and the power of writing as a tool to engage with our deepest emotions. Join us as we take you through an inspiring session filled with insights on self-discovery, personal growth, and the significance of crafting spaces that resonate with your truest self.

To get Colleen's wellness kit at no charge please visit her website here.  If you would like connect with Colleen you can reach out to her here and make an appointment.  If you would like to order her book, Sacred Spaces, you can find that by clicking here. 

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. 

#098 - Imagine facing a life-altering illness, fighting for every breath, and being haunted by the possibility of never waking up from sleep. This was the reality for Ben Lawson, a fitness enthusiast whose world was upended by a leukemia diagnosis. Through his story, we traverse the uncertain terrains of health and resilience. Ben candidly recounts his intense battle, from the fear that gripped him during sleepless nights to the physical challenges that tested his resolve. His journey offers a raw look at the human spirit's capacity to endure and ultimately triumph in the face of adversity.

As we grapple with the emotional weight of Ben's experience, we're taken to the depths of his struggle during the peak of a global pandemic. The added isolation of COVID-19 protocols meant facing chemotherapy and life-threatening complications with limited support. Hear how the simple error of a hospital form caused Ben to reevaluate his decision about life-saving measures, revealing the complexities of navigating a health crisis amidst unprecedented times. His reflection on this ordeal is not just a personal narrative but a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.

While Ben's tale is one of survival, it's also about reinvention. Post-recovery, he discusses the profound loneliness that accompanied his journey back to health, the societal expectations placed on men to mask their vulnerabilities, and the determination to rebuild his life and business. Celebrating his recent marriage and professional achievements, Ben's story is not solely a testament to personal fortitude but an inspiration to those facing their own battles. Join us as we uncover the strength within adversity and the incredible journey of a man who refused to be reduced to a statistic.

Be sure and check out Ben on Instagram @lawlessfitness and see first hand his journey.  Be sure and follow me on Instagram @journeywithakepodcast and get a closer look at my guests and yours truly.

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. 

#097 - As my voice soldiers on through the remnants of a cold, I sit down with adventurer and author Edward Olu, the spirited soul behind the children's book "Around the World in Eight Dives: Scuba Diving All Seven Continents." Our conversation travels from the depths of Edward's Nigerian origins to his life today in Southern California, capturing the ethos of resilience and human spirit. He's not just a man who's conquered underwater realms on every continent; he's also a storyteller whose life lessons and pursuit of fear's edge have reshaped his worldview, inspiring all to seek out their next chapter of discovery, be it global or in the comfort of your neighborhood.

Adventure, Edward argues, isn't reserved for the adrenaline junkies alone - it's woven into the fabric of our everyday encounters, from the skateboarding trials of his kids to the novel tastes at a local farmer's market. This episode peels back the layers of what it means to live adventurously, encouraging us to embrace the unknown and the joy it can bring into our lives. As Edward shares his tales of diving into icy waters and the preparations that come with extreme cold water diving, it's clear that the richness of life is not found at the surface, but often in the depths where we challenge ourselves the most.

Looking to the horizon, Edward envisions his future dives as selective masterpieces, as we talk about his eagerness to dive into the world of freediving and share the magic of the oceans with his children. Our riveting exchange underlines the importance of choice in our quests and the serenity that comes from a balanced approach to the thrill of adventure. With the 100th episode on the horizon, Edward's eloquence and passion for life remind us all that it's the journey that defines us, not just the snapshots of our destinations. Join us for this extraordinary episode, where the spirit of exploration knows no bounds.

Be sure and follow Edward Olu on Instagram @ed.olu.  You can also give me a follow on Instagram as well to learn more about my guests and who I am.  Check it out @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.