The Human Adventure

#086 - Get ready to venture into the wild side! I'm thrilled to bring you an electrifying conversation with Amy Siewe, a fearless Python Hunter with a fascinating story to tell. A former homecoming queen and real estate agent, Amy switched gears in a major way when she swapped property showings for python hunting in the Everglades. You'll be hooked as Amy takes us through her unique journey, blending her childhood love of critters with her newfound passion.

Amy's tales from the swamps are nothing short of action-packed. From her perilous encounters with these titanic pythons to her innovative capture techniques, every minute is a thrilling ride. The adrenaline doesn't stop there, though. Amy also offers an enlightening perspective on the pressing issue of invasive species in Florida, giving you a rare inside look at this environmental concern. She's tackled numerous obstacles and even endured snake bites, but her bravery and unwavering determination only fuels her mission further.

But the adventure doesn't end here. As we stand at the dawn of a new year, we are thrilled to bring you more extraordinary stories that inspire and entertain. You never know what's around the corner on the Journey with Jake podcast. So don't forget to follow us on Instagram and stay tuned for the thrilling episodes that lie ahead. It's a ride you won't want to miss!

Be sure and follow Amy on Instagram @thepythonhuntress and I can be found @journeywithjakepodcast.  It is going  to be a great year!

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. 

#085 - Imagine packing up your life and jetting off to a remote island halfway across the world. That's the story of our spirited guest, Lexie Brown, who traded in her urban life for an adventure-packed existence on the Marshall Islands. This episode takes us on a wild journey to the sandy shores of the Pacific, unearthing the emotional upheaval and logistical challenges of such a drastic move.

Picture this: a small island, no personal vehicles, daily encounters with the vibrant local culture, and a lagoon teeming with marine life where aggressive fish are a part of your swimming experience. It's not your typical postcard vacation - it's Lexie's everyday life. We'll hear about her exhilarating diving ventures,  a project that searches for the remains of missing American soldiers from World War II, and the personal milestones she's achieved while living on the island, including a triumphant three-mile swim. 

Change can be terrifying, but it can also open doors to unimaginable adventures and personal growth. As Lexie narrates her tale of adapting to a new environment and embracing unique experiences, we're reminded of the endless possibilities that life presents when we dare to step out of our comfort zones. From funny anecdotes about trigger fish to inspiring stories of resilience and perseverance, this episode is a testament to the beauty of embracing change and seizing the day, island-style. Join us on this unforgettable journey with Lexie Brown!

You can follow Lexie on Instagram @lexienicolebrown to  see her adventures first hand.  Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.

#084 - Prepare to be transported to stunning landscapes, exotic cuisines, and rich cultures as we sit down for an enlightening chat with Jamie Edwards, the creator of the much-loved travel website I Am Lost and Found. www.iamlostandfound.com Her tales take us on captivating journeys, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the icy wilderness of Antarctica, and to the serene beauty of Uganda.

Journey with us as we navigate the thrilling waters of family travel adventures and cultural immersion. Hear firsthand how our guest, Jamie, and her family have used Japan as their launch pad for exploring Asia and how the unique experience of living in Tokyo with young children has shaped their perception of adventure.

The journey continues as we traverse the icy landscapes of Antarctica and embark on a gorilla trek in Uganda. Join us as we tackle the challenges of finding the time and resources for travel, especially with a family, and discuss the importance of cultural sensitivity while globetrotting. Finally, we wrap up our voyage with Jamie's favorite trip to India with her husband. Be prepared to be enthralled, entertained, and inspired to pack your own suitcase and set off on your own adventure.

Be sure and check out Jamie Edwards on Instagram @Iamlostandfound_ and on her website www.iamlostandfound.com.

083 - Strap yourself in for a thrilling ride on the wave! We have the electrifying Sam Studee, a professional wake surfer, a Minnesota native, and an all-round action sports enthusiast joining us on the show today. He’s going to take us through the rollercoaster ride of his journey, from being just a boy with a love for action sports to becoming a professional wake surfer. We’ll be hearing about his intriguing experiences surfing not just on wakeboards, but on coffee tables too! This is surely a conversation you wouldn't want to miss!

The conversation takes a deeper turn as Sam unveils the world of professional wake surfing; a dynamic, competitive yet tight-knit community. We journey through the structure of wake surfing competitions, the path to becoming a professional in the sport, and its global reach. We will also be surfing through the digital space, exploring Sam's social media presence, his viral wake surfing videos, and his aspirations for the future. So buckle up, folks, and get ready to ride this mighty wave with Sam Studee, a true action sports aficionado!

Be sure and give Sam a follow on all social media platforms @samstudee.  You can also give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.  Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake.

#081 - Join us for a heartening episode as we sit down with ultra-runner Ryan Head, whose story is the epitome of resilience. Over the years, Ryan has turned his life around, shedding 85 pounds as well as the mental and physical barriers that held him back. We journey with him on his path to personal transformation, as he moves from running a mile on a treadmill to completing  full and half marathons, including the challenging Ogden Marathon.

In an exciting twist, we delve into the thrilling world of ultra-running with Ryan.  We hear about the mental fortitude he mustered to participate in the grueling Antelope Island race. His approach to running, and life, is a testament to his fortitude, inspiring us all to face our challenges head-on.

In the final part of our chat, Ryan reflects on his experience at the Wasatch 100, and the invaluable role his support system played in this feat. He discusses how he battled the heat and fatigue while keeping his spirits high, thanks to his pacers, Ken Duncan, Nate Allred, and Jacob Bateman. We also discuss Ryan's future running plans and his ambition to keep running for as long as possible. Prepare to be inspired by this incredible story of triumph over adversity, and to catch the running bug yourself!

Check out more from Ryan by giving him a follow on Instagram @ry_head.  

Thanks for all of your support to Journey with Jake.  To learn more about me and my guests check out @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.  Just remember, it's not all about the destination as it is about the journey!!

#081 - Get ready for a thrilling rollercoaster ride through exhilarating highs and challenging lows as I, Jake Bushman, recount my journey of running my second half marathon at the breathtaking Snow Canyon in St. George, Utah. Will I conquer the grueling 13.1 miles or succumb to the taxing trials of the course? Joined by my good friend, Paul Petersen, we explore this journey and much more, offering a deeper glimpse into my life beyond the podcast.

In a scintillating Q&A session, Paul dives into my personal and professional life, taking you on a journey from my high school days to my 25-year marriage and my long stint living in Vegas. We'll take you behind the scenes of race day, from the rush of starting line adrenaline to unexpected pit stops and the sweet taste of crossing the finish line. But it's not all about running; we also draw parallels between the marathon and the podcast, both journeys filled with unique experiences and amazing people.

In the final stretch, we reflect on the trials and triumphs of this adventure, drawing lessons that go beyond running. We share strategies to push through the most challenging moments and reveal how song lyrics and mantras can fuel our determination. I also express my heartfelt gratitude to you, the listeners, who inspire me to continue this podcast journey. With upcoming guests and your shared experiences, I promise to make each episode a memorable part of your journey. Remember, life is about the journey, not the destination, so let's continue this adventure together.

For more behind the scenes look at yours truly check out my Instagram account @journeywithjakepodcast and follow along.

#080 - If you've ever wondered how one man can balance the exhilarating thrill of riding waves, with the calm tranquility of nursing, you're about to meet him. Meet our guest, Spencer Tong, a passionate surfer, nurturing nurse, and dedicated family man. This episode sees Spencer's captivating tales of surfing from Hawaii to Indonesia, and the life lessons he's harnessed from the vast ocean to the hustle of his life back on land.

Spencer didn't just fall in love with surfing; he mastered it. Listen as he takes us behind the scenes of competitive surfing, explaining the subtle strategies that helped him get ahead. His commitment to surfing has a ripple effect, teaching him invaluable skills that have been instrumental in his roles as a father, husband, and nurse. But every great adventure comes with danger. Hear about Spencer's heart-stopping encounter with a shark while surfing at Newport Beach, and his experiences in some of the world's most challenging surf spots.

But this episode is more than just high-octane adventure stories. It's about family, passion, and the harmony that can come from pursuing what you love. For Spencer, surfing isn't just a sport; it's a bond he shares with his sons, an outlet that has kept him balanced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a catalyst that keeps his zest for life burning. So, whether you're a surfer or simply someone seeking inspiration, get ready to ride the wave of Spencer's story, and remember his sage advice: find something that invigorates you, and cultivate a passion that fills you with a zest for life.

Be sure and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!!  If you want to reach me you can email me at jake@@journeywithjake.net or DM on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.

#079 - You're in for an absolute treat, as today's episode of Journey with Jake is sure to ignite your wanderlust. We're joined by Dianni Hall, the awe-inspiring host of the podcast While She's Away. Dianni's been living a life of adventure for the past five years, immersing herself in various cultures, and today she offers us a glimpse into her thrilling nomadic lifestyle.

From her initial solo voyage to India that sparked her love for travel, to her daring escapades across Southeast Asia, Dianni's stories are as riveting as they are inspiring. She shares the challenges of finding financial stability as a podcasting freelancer, but also the joy of meaningful work combined with adventure. We explore her self-discovery journey, how she turned fear into fuel, and the life lessons she's gleaned from her experiences - from volunteering with animals in Thailand to teaching English in Spain. 

But Dianni's story isn't just about globe-trotting. It's about how she found her identity and voice in the midst of foreign cultures, and how her Hispanic roots and upbringing played an instrumental role in shaping who she is today. As we journey through Dianni's life, we also delve into her transition from a master's program to solo travel, her family's initial concerns, and how she learned to embrace the unknown. So buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating ride through Dianni's adventurous life.

To learn more about Dianni follow her on Instagram @whileshesawaypod.  Be sure and give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram as well.

#078 - Today's episode is a portrait of perseverance, dedication, and triumph amidst adversity. We're thrilled to bring you a heart-to-heart with Elsa Hassett, a cheerleading titan with six NCA championships and three NCA partner stunt championships under her belt. Elsa's journey takes us from her humble beginnings in gymnastics, all the way to the high-stakes world of competitive cheerleading at Weber State University.

Our conversation probes not only Elsa's glittering achievements, but also the moments of struggle that defined her journey. Elsa candidly shares about the setbacks she faced - from the disappointment of not making the University of Utah team, to the challenges of acclimating to cheers and sideline dances. Woven into this narrative is the story of a strong support system, a motivational coach, and the unwavering influence of her mother, all of which played a pivotal role in her journey towards becoming a champion.

But the journey doesn't end at championship victories! Join us as Elsa takes us through her experiences at Daytona, her plans for the future, and the legacy she leaves at Weber State University. From discussing her close-knit team, the raw talent that thrived at Weber State, and the roller-coaster of competing at Daytona, our conversation with Elsa is as exhilarating as her routines. Tune in, and let Elsa's remarkable journey inspire you to boldly face challenges and relentlessly chase your dreams.

Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake.  To learn more about the guests and host please follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.  

#077 - Meet Tucker Balmert: an 11-year-old wakeboarding prodigy whose passion and determination have already led him to major triumphs in the sport. As our youngest guest yet, Tucker offers a unique perspective on the journey to success, sharing his experience from childhood practice sessions at Lake Barton under the committed guidance of his coach, Glenn Fletcher, to his crowning glory of winning the Junior Boys 2022 WWA Wakeboard World Championships. His story is as much about the thrill of wakeboarding as it is about the power of youthful ambition and resilience.

Within the competitive world of wakeboarding, Tucker stands as an inspiring figure for both his peers and those considering the sport. His insights on the intricacies of competitions and the art of executing tricks on the wake serve as a valuable guide for aspiring wakeboarders. But beyond the sport, the friendships he's forged, the challenges he's overcome, and his bright-eyed future aspirations reveal a heartfelt narrative that extends far beyond the water. Listen in, as Tucker's journey strikes a chord with any dreamer's heart, reminding us that passion, hard work, and a sprinkle of youthful optimism can indeed propel us to the heights of our dreams.

Be sure and give Tucker a follow on Instagram @tbalmert_wakeboarding and while you are there give me a follow as well @journeywithjakepodcast.  Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake.