The Human Adventure

#096 - As the sun kissed the Arizona desert where Annalise Castillo's love for the natural world was nurtured, we embark on an exploration of her adventurous spirit and dedication to self-care. Annalise, a yogi with an insatiable appetite for adventure, shares with us her transformative journey from the dusty trails of Tucson to the serene beaches of the Marshall Islands. Her stories of wild dingoes and escapades paint a vivid picture of a life woven with the threads of exploration, laughter, and an enduring bond with the great outdoors.

Strap in for a road trip down the east coast of Australia that promises nothing short of exhilaration. Annalise takes us from Cairns to Melbourne, revealing the highs and lows that come with the territory of spontaneous travel. From camping under starlit skies to close encounters with the country's iconic wildlife, her narrative is a hearty reminder of the freedom found in the embrace of the unknown and the joy of chasing the horizon. Alongside her, we learn that the most unexpected detours often lead to the richest experiences.

Finally, Ananalise opens up about the deeply personal realm of self-discovery through the lens of yoga and wellness. Her candid recollections of overcoming self-doubt and her transformative path to becoming a yoga instructor are lessons in the art of self-love and growth. She extends an invitation to awaken within, as she details the exhilaration of planning her first yoga retreat in Micronesia, a journey that promises to be as much about the inner voyage as the outer. Join us for an episode that is a celebration of life's meandering paths and the revelations they hold.

To learn more about Annalise please follow her on Instagram @annalisemarie_wellness.  You can follow my adventures and learn more about my guests by following me @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.

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. 

#095 - Every battle leaves its scars, some visible, others hidden deep within the mind. Join me as I sit down with Vincent Proulx, a beacon of hope for anyone facing the dark aftermath of service. Vincent's raw and honest retelling of his struggle with PTSD and suicidal thoughts isn't just a tale of adversity; it's a narrative that reaffirms the immense courage it takes to reach out for help. His transition from the Canadian Navy and Army to law enforcement paints a picture of a man no stranger to life's frontlines, both literal and metaphorical. Vincent's journey is a stark reminder that the hardest battles are often fought within and that seeking help is not only brave but essential.

Harnessing the therapeutic power of the great outdoors, Vincent shares how mountain biking and daily affirmations have become more than just hobbies; they've transformed into vital lifelines anchoring him to a state of positivity and healing. Our conversation illuminates the pivotal role of nature in mental health recovery and the impact of Vincent's vulnerability on social media. By openly chronicling his affirmation practices online, he's cultivated a community that mirrors his resilience and growth. His story is an uplifting testament to the strength found in solidarity and the indomitable spirit that thrives when we choose to face our demons head-on.

As Vincent gears up for a life on the road with his partner, Valerie, embracing van life and the adventures it promises, he continues to inspire. His commitment to living each day with purpose and joy is a heartening example for those who may find themselves in the throes of their own personal battles. We also take a moment to honor his late dog, Chase, whose unwavering companionship was a guiding light through Vincent's darkest times. Embark on this journey of triumph over trauma and discover how one man's resolve to find happiness is lighting the way for others.

Be sure and follow Vincent on Instagram @vincent.adventures_ .  You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get to know me and my guests.

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. 

#094 - Have you ever stood at the precipice of change, teetering on the edge of transformation but unsure how to leap? Alex R Wagner, filmmaker and marathon runner, joins us to recount his exhilarating plunge from darkness into the light of self-discovery and relentless determination. Through the twists and turns of his life's narrative, Alex illuminates the path from a youth in Illinois to his inspiring achievements in the bustling streets of New York and the vibrant film scene of Chicago.

This episode is a celebration of personal odysseys and the sheer power of storytelling, both in life and on the silver screen. Alex shares the intimate details of his struggles with weight loss, the mental fortitude required for marathon training, and the joyous triumphs of running - each stride and scene a testament to his transformation. As we traverse his journey, we uncover the deep connections between the endurance needed to direct a film and the resilience to cross a marathon finish line, offering a fresh perspective on the universal quest for growth and self-improvement.

To cap off our conversation, we extend an open invitation for you to join in the celebration of Alex's journey and to draw parallels with your own life's challenges and victories. Whether you're a creative soul searching for kindred spirits or an aspiring athlete hungry for that next adrenaline rush, this episode is a mosaic of heartfelt experiences designed to inspire and ignite your passion for pushing boundaries. Lace up your running shoes, load your camera, and prepare to be part of the narrative that champions the richness of life's journey as much as its destinations.

Be sure and follow Alex on Instagram @alexrwagner and to learn more about me give me a follow @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. 

#093 - The echoes of tragedy often linger long after the event has passed, but my guests Laura Hall and Sarah Bush have discovered a powerful form of healing that propels them forward—literally. In the wake of the Columbine High School shooting, these sisters found themselves grappling with the weight of trauma and its silent aftermath. Together, we take an intimate look at their emotional journey, discussing how running became their shared lifeline, a rhythmic therapy for body and soul. Their story is a testament to resilience and the unspoken strength that can be found in the steadfast companionship of siblings.

As we lace up and hit the pavement, Laura and Sarah reveal how their love for running transcended the confines of high school cross country, blossoming into a passion for marathons and the wild freedom of trail running. The sisters take us through the streets of the world's most iconic cities, past the finish lines of the Boston and New York Marathons, and onto the rugged paths of the Orcas Island 50k. Their narrative isn't just about endurance—it's about the transformative power of shared adventures and the unique bond that forms when you push your limits side by side.

I close the episode with a heartfelt appreciation for Laura and Sarah, who have generously peeled back the layers of their lives as runners, mothers, and sisters, sharing both their struggles and triumphs. If you're curious about the intersection of athleticism and personal growth, or if you simply crave a story of human spirit conquering adversity, join us. Their running shoes have traversed more than just miles; they've charted a path of profound healing and joy—a journey that continues with every sunrise and every step.

Be sure and give Sarah and Laura a follow on Instagram.  You can find Sarah @sarah_j_runs and Laura @the.donut.runner.  If you have not done so please follow me on Instagram as well @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. 

#092 - When Christie Sausa laced up her skates at the age of eight, little did she know the ice would carve out a path leading her to the heart of Lake Placid, where Olympic dreams shimmer and the spirit of winter sports thrives. Journey with us as Christie, a figure skating and speed skating dynamo, takes us through her life's voyage on the ice - an odyssey that intertwines the grace of pirouettes with the rush of speed skating sprints. She's not just a master of the rink but also a guardian of its history, having penned a comprehensive chronicle of Lake Placid's figure skating legacy, proving that passion can indeed script history.

As the pulse of Lake Placid beats with year-round athletic fervor, Christie's story is a testament to the town's enduring Olympic legacy. She shares her dual roles as president of the skating clubs, fostering a haven for winter sports lovers and nurturing young talent in the frost-kissed arena. Her anecdotes stretch beyond the ice, embracing the town's love for outdoor adventures, revealing a community where the echo of past Olympians inspires the champions of tomorrow. Christie's narrative is one of destiny and serendipity, as every zephyr across Lake Placid's storied rinks whispers of her journey from an enamored tot to a multifaceted ambassador of the ice.

Wrap up your earbuds and embark on a heartwarming sojourn with Christie as we celebrate the confluence of dreams and reality in a town synonymous with winter wonder. Together, we spin stories that inspire others to chase their passions and skate through life's challenges with grace and resilience.

Be sure and follow Christie on Instagram @lakeplacidskater.

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. 

#091 - Embarking on an adventure can be as simple as stepping outside your comfort zone and, for Desiree van Welsum, this meant transforming a health scare into a life of exploration. Desiree and her husband decided to go  for the freedom of the open road, and in this episode, she recounts the profound lessons and lifestyle shifts that come with full-time RV living. From their first excursion in a 17-foot trailer to the sprawling comfort of a 40-foot motorized home, Desiree's international background and linguistic flair add color to her stories of travel and the day-to-day realities of a nomad.

Desiree's tale is more than just picturesque landscapes—it's about the quirks and character of the path less traveled. In this heart-to-heart, she sprinkles a sense of wonder through her narration of the most memorable stops and the people she's met along the way. Whether it's the misty majesty of Niagara Falls or the unexpected charm of Route 66, Desiree's travels are a testament to the joy of embracing life's unexpected turns. Her experiences, documented unfiltered in her travel books, invite us to share in the authenticity of RV adventures, from wild horse encounters to historic musical moments.

As we wrap up our journey with Desiree, she imparts wisdom on living in the moment and the significance of taking those first tiny steps towards your dreams. Whether you're inspired by her favorite destination, the Oregon coast, or simply curious about the logistics of RV living, Desiree's story is a siren call to those yearning for a change. Join us as she urges you to act on your wanderlust, discover new passions, and find beauty in living in the moment—just as she has in her inspiring quest across America.

Be sure and give Desiree a follow on Instagram @rvcruising and learn more about her books "The Long Way Home" by visiting her website www.thelongwayhometravels.com.

Follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or 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. 

090 - When dreams thunder into reality, it's a story you don't want to miss. Join me as I sit down with the electrifying Sarah Roberts, a professional barrel racer whose journey from a small Idaho town to the roaring arenas of rodeo is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Sarah didn't inherit a legacy of horse lovers; she carved her own path with determination and the support of a close friend. Her passion for the sport, kindled in her teenage years, has led her to a life where the roar of the crowd and the thrill of the chase are daily occurrences.

As Sarah and I gallop through her life's narrative, you'll be gripped by the meticulous dance around the barrels and the work ethic instilled by her supportive parents, which transformed her from a stall cleaner to a top-tier competitor. Her bond with her husband Kole, also a rodeo competitor, emphasizes the partnership and strategy necessary in high-stakes barrel racing. Life on the road is relentless, and Sarah takes us behind the scenes to reveal the rigorous demands of year-round competition and the deep, almost spiritual connection she shares with her equine partners.

Wrapping up with personal insights, Sarah's story is a testament to triumph, resilience, and faith. She's not just a competitor; she's an entrepreneur who balances the challenges of running a company while chasing her National Finals Rodeo dreams. Her parting wisdom to aspiring barrel racers echoes the spirit of her own journey: pursue your passion with everything you've got. And if you're as captivated by her story as I am, follow her on Instagram @sarah.ann.roberts for a front-row seat to the adventure. Because, as Sarah will tell you, it's about more than just the destination—it's about the ride.

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. 

Feel the rush of water beneath you and the tug of G-forces as I, Jake Bushman, share the microphone with Thomas Degasperi — or T-Gas to those in the know. He's not your average sportsman; he's a professional water skier with a story that stretches from Italian mountains to Floridian lakes. In this episode, Thomas reveals how a childhood surrounded by the love of water skiing and his parents' ski school led to a life of weaving through the slalom and chasing buoys at breakneck speeds.

Venture with us through the highs and lows of T-Gas's illustrious career, where victories on the junior European stage gave way to cultural hurdles and linguistic faux pas in Louisiana. It's a tale of resilience, family bonds, and the art of mastering a sport that's as demanding as it is rewarding. Thomas's transition from top-tier athlete to inspirational coach is a journey marked by his family's legacy and his own indomitable spirit. His insights extend beyond the ski, offering a philosophy that champions commitment in every walk of life, from competitive arenas to culinary adventures with family.

Wrap up your life jacket tight as Thomas takes us behind the scenes of the water skiing world's thrill and camaraderie. Learn what it takes to stay afloat in both professional tournaments and personal pursuits, as he balances the roles of coach and competitor. With tales of off-season reflection and the heart-pounding adrenaline of competition, we uncover the disciplined life of a world-class athlete who cooks with as much passion as he coaches. It's not just a conversation; it's an immersion into the life of someone who has skied the course of life with fervor and precision.

Be sure and give Thomas a follow on Instagram @this_is_tgas.  

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. 

When Sydney Benson leaped onto the gymnastics scene at eight years old, little did she know the heights she'd reach as a Brigham Young University gymnast. My guest, Sydney, shares her extraordinary journey with captivating stories that chronicle her evolution from a determined youngster into a collegiate athlete. From the thrill of competition to the camaraderie between teammates, we explore the nuances of gymnastic life, including the impact of family, with Sydney's music-major mother playing a pivotal role, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of athletic excellence.

Vault into the world of women's gymnastics with us as we dissect the four major events and discuss the intense preparation that goes into a collegiate meet. Sydney opens up about the mental fortitude required to come back from injuries, hitting personal bests, and the dynamism of team support, all while balancing rigorous academic demands. This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a gymnast's mind and the collective heartbeat of a team striving for perfection.

Beyond the mats and beams, Sydney gives a voice to the life of a student-athlete, including her love of singing and the myth of happiness being at odds with competitiveness. We address the importance of mental health in a sport where the pressure is as relentless as the pursuit of a flawless routine. Touching on lighter notes, like the role of hair and makeup in competitions, this episode paints a comprehensive picture of Sydney's world, where grit meets grace. Join us for a journey through the highs and lows of gymnastics, where every flip and twist tells a story of dedication and joy.

Be sure and give Sydney a follow on Instagram @_sydney_benson_ and while you are there check out my Instagram account as well @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. 

#087 - A Christmas Day flight might not seem like an adventure starter, but that's exactly where I, Jake Bushman, met Zach Frisch, a trail runner with a love for Utah's untamed paths. Our conversation, as unexpected as the meeting itself, turned into a profound exploration of endurance, nature, and the communities we cherish. On this episode of Journey with Jake, Zach takes us along on his life's trek, sharing the thrills of his Instagram venture @trailswithzach , the balancing act of his athletic passion , and the candid joy of his early marriage days.

Amid the sound of our running footsteps, this episode weaves the exciting and demanding fabric of long-distance runs with personal tales that go beyond physical endurance. Whether sprinting past a bear during the 'Not Your Grandma's Marathon' or pushing through a 50-mile race on a mere twelve days of preparation, Zach's adventures marry the grit of trail running with poignant reflections on life's larger race. You'll find yourself rooting for him, all while contemplating the power of our own support systems and the emotional journeys we embark upon.

Wrapping up with heartfelt musings, we discuss the transformative allure of the trails and the process of recovery from injuries that test our mental fortitude. It's about more than just lacing up and hitting the dirt—it's a call to appreciate the raw moments of solitude and the intricate dance between the roles we play: athlete, spouse, friend, and trailblazer. Join us as we share the soulful side of sprinting through life, one trail at a time.

Be sure and give Zach a follow on his Instagram page @trailswithzach.  You can also 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.