In this week's episode, we explore Jeff McMurtrie's journey into mapmaking, focusing on Ontario's Algonquin Park. Jeff shares his early experiences in the park that sparked his passion for creating custom maps, highlighting their tailored features for outdoor enthusiasts compared to standard Google Maps. He explains his map-making process, from data collection to adding intricate details, and covers various parks and regions his maps include. The discussion touches on the evolution of map design, blending personal adventures with meticulous data gathering for accuracy. Jeff offers safety tips for paddling and navigation, emphasizes the significance of Algonquin Park in his work, and describes the tools and inspiration behind his maps. He also discusses community feedback and his ambitions to chart new territories and enhance existing maps with innovative features to inspire outdoor adventurers.

(00:00) Introduction and Discovery of Map Making

(10:46) The Difference Between Custom Maps and Google Maps

(25:47) Evolution of Map Design and Features

(30:12) Personal Adventures and Data Collection

(35:03) Safety Tips and Advice for Paddling and Navigation

(40:15) The Importance of Accuracy in Maps

(45:26) Density of Lakes and Trails in Different Parks

(50:14) Tools and Software Used in Map Creation

(56:00) Creating Intuitive and Readable Maps

(01:05:10) Future Plans for Maps by Jeff

This weeks episode of the Trailmark Podcast covers topics such as representation in the outdoors, the importance of mental health and nature, paddleboarding adventures, camping and van life, exploring historical sites, and emphasizing African-American history. James shares personal experiences and motivations for starting his YouTube channel, as well as his passion for documenting and sharing historical explorations. The conversation highlights the significance of promoting diversity and educating others about underrepresented histories. He also shares insights into his van life journey, including the minimalistic setup of his van and the challenges and benefits of living in a small space. James talks about the DIY projects he has undertaken and the confidence he has gained from tackling difficult van life build challenges. He also discusses his favorite meals to cook in the van and strategies for efficient cooking. James shares his future travel plans, including a desire to visit British Columbia and the Arctic Ocean. Finally, he expresses his long-term goals of building a positive community that inspires people to explore the outdoors and reconnect with nature.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:19) Representation in the Outdoors

(06:29) Transition from Sports to Outdoor Exploration

(10:16) Favorite Outdoor Locations

(12:33) The Ethnic Explorer YouTube Channel

(20:55) Camping and Van Life

(23:16) Exploring Historical Sites

(40:08) Significance of Historical Exploration

(51:35) Van Life and Minimalistic Living

(59:00) DIY Projects and Building Confidence

(01:09:01) Cooking and Nutrition in the Van

(01:15:28) Future Travel Plans and Aspirations

(01:30:31) Long-Term Goals for the Ethnic Explorer Brand

Mad Mark shares his journey and experiences with van life. He explains how living in a van has improved his emotional well-being and provided him with an abundance of time. He discusses the cost comparison between van life and living in a house, highlighting the financial benefits of van life. Mark also delves into the concept of ownership and consumerism, emphasizing the freedom and joy that comes with a minimalist lifestyle. He shares his perspective on the system and the awakening of individuals to its flaws. Additionally, he touches on the connection with nature and the basic survival skills associated with van life. Finally, he addresses the challenges and downsides of van life, debunking common misconceptions. In this conversation, Mad Mark shares his memorable experiences in the van, the inspiration he finds in nature, and his advice for embracing the van life lifestyle. He also discusses the balance between solitude and community, local stories and legends, and his future plans and destinations.

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:14) Inspiration for Van Life and Change in Perspective

(06:21) Cost Comparison: Van Life vs. Living in a House

(10:22) Abundance of Time in Van Life

(13:45) Escaping the System and Awakening to the Truth

(20:36) Awakening to the System and People Fighting Back

(26:45) Van Life as a Form of Meditation and Connection with Nature

(31:04) Experience with Backpacking and Basic Survival Skills

(39:52) Maintenance and Repair Costs of Van Life

(45:02) Memorable Times in the Van

(52:37) Balance Between Solitude and Community

(01:04:15) Advice for Embracing Van Life

(01:13:21) Future Plans and Destinations

Jason reflects on navigating the UK's landscapes, tackling the quest for untamed wilderness, and contemplates the whims of weather on adventuring. With tales from the UK to Europe, particularly Scotland, he underscores the criticality of safety and savvy decision-making outdoors. Jason shares insights on responsible wild camping and advocates for the leave no trace philosophy. Storytelling's power to motivate outdoor exploration is a key theme, alongside his ambition to uncover hidden gems in the UK's national parks and inspire positive change in viewers.

(00:00) The Story Behind the YouTube Channel

(07:08) Variety of Outdoor Spaces in the UK

(13:14) Finding Adventure in Different Places

(21:53) Adventure Experiences in Scotland

(28:05) Wild Camping and Stealth Camping

(38:34) Having Structure and Objectives

(42:44) Being Present and Engaging with the Outdoors

(46:30) Balancing Plans and Unexpected Changes

(55:05) Waiting for the Unexpected

(01:03:44) Goals for 2024

Elton Guillen, featured on the Trailmark Podcast, recounts his transformative journey from corporate America to Nicaragua's lush landscapes. Leaving his corporate job, Elton embarked on an epic bike ride from California to Nicaragua, reconnecting with his roots and following his dreams. He discusses the motivations behind this drastic life change, the challenges faced during his cycling adventure, particularly in Mexico, and his current work revitalizing his family's coffee farm. Elton emphasizes the significance of his video work in educating audiences about coffee farming, reflecting on the phases of mastery in his journey and his future aspirations. Highlighting the importance of teamwork and branding in growing his business, he also shares his passion for promoting Nicaragua as a vibrant destination.

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(03:09) Feeling Dissatisfied with Corporate Life

(08:15) The Idea of Biking to Nicaragua

(11:08) Cycling Journey and Love for Biking

(19:17) Challenges and Adventures in Mexico

(25:36) Camping and Stealth Camping

(27:59) Rebuilding the Coffee Farm in Nicaragua

(35:15) Finding Purpose and Passion

(38:54) Starting a Podcast and Creative Outlets

(40:41) Creating Videos to Document and Educate

(42:14) The Three Phases of Mastery

(45:44) The Need for a Team

(46:59) Building a Brand, Expanding and Future Plans

(49:25) Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Chris Lee-Francis, author of the book 'Eastwards and Far,' joins the Trailmark Podcast to discuss his epic journey across Canada on a bike. He shares the beginning of his bike touring adventures, the challenges of choosing the right bike and bike fit, the experiences of wild camping, and the importance of documenting the journey through writing and filming. Chris also reflects on the changing mindset and landscape during the journey and the role of music in evoking memories of the ride. He also talks about the weather challenges he faced, from extreme heat to constant rain. Chris shares his approach to planning and the gear he brought with him, emphasizing the importance of refining what you have as you go. He discusses the considerations of packing for multiple days and the challenges of carrying water. Chris also mentions the mechanical issues he encountered and shares his future plans, including getting his newborn involved in cycling.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:07) The Beginning of the Journey

(04:04) Choosing the Right Bike

(06:26) The Importance of Bike Fit

(08:19) Wild Camping Challenges

(10:45) The Experience of Traffic

(13:28) Benefits of Documenting the Journey

(18:37) Process of Writing the Book

(23:30) Changing Mindsets Along the Way

(30:42) Challenges and Surprises

(37:48) Memories and Music

(41:03) Weather Challenges

(42:26) Camping Equipment

(43:43) Approach to Planning and Gear

(44:40) Packing for Multiple Days

(45:09) Water and Food Considerations

(45:58) Mechanical Issues

(46:52) Future Plans

Step into the world of Sean Conway, the ultra-endurance athlete known for cycling, swimming, and running the length of Britain, on this episode of The Trailmark Podcast. Sean recounts his record-breaking journeys, including the harrowing Ultimate British Triathlon and his swim through Britain's challenging waters. He shares his approach to overcoming extreme challenges, his transition from photography to endurance sports, and his advocacy for a life of adventure and simplicity. Hear about the highs and lows of Sean's adventures, his balance between training and family, his favorite expeditions, and the impact of technology on adventure. Join us for an inspiring episode with Sean Conway, a man redefining the limits of human endurance.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:01) Sean's Beginnings as a Photographer

(04:58) The Shift to Adventure

(07:52) The Role of Social Media

(11:08) The Creative Process on the Road

(13:22) Training Rigors & Family Life Balance

(21:04) Races and Record-Breaking Attempts

(23:37) Cycling, Swimming, Running Preferences

(27:25) The Value of Experience and Overcoming Injuries

(36:08) Sean’s Most Remote Adventures

(38:10) Technology’s Impact on the Adventure Landscape

(40:29) The "Adventure-Sport" Concept

(42:47) Sean’s Support Team and Preparation

(45:14) Sean’s Future Plans for 2024 and Beyond

Alastair Humphreys is an English adventurer, author, and motivational speaker renowned for his epic 46,000-mile, four-year bicycle journey around the world. Named a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2012, he pioneered the concept of "microadventures"—short, local, accessible adventures. Humphreys has written several books detailing his experiences, including "Moods of Future Joys," "Thunder and Sunshine," and the children's series "The Boy Who Biked the World." His diverse adventures also include competing in the Marathon des Sables, rowing across the English Channel, walking across India and Iceland, and rowing across the Atlantic. Humphreys continues to inspire with his focus on everyday adventures and exploration.

(00:00) Introduction to the Trailmark Podcast

(01:20) Exploring Locally: A Year on a Single Map

(02:41) The Shift from Global to Local Exploration

(04:33) Exploring Your Own Backyard

(05:35) The Evolution of Storytelling in Adventures

(07:14) The Struggle of Balancing Adventure and Personal Life

(12:53) The Dangers of Seeking Validation through Adventure

(15:34) Behind the Scenes: Adventure and Filmmaking

(18:24) The Road's Solitude: Finding Peace and Purpose

(21:36) Journey vs. Home: Perspectives on Time

(26:58) The Philosophy of Slow Travel

(29:46) Unearthing Inspiration: The Seeds of Adventure

(31:15) The Tipping Point: Choosing Adventure as a Career

(33:49) Final Thoughts and Reflections