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Waterfall Plunge: Jon Cheney's Journey Through Whitewater Kayaking and Life
#154 - Imagine plunging down a 35-foot waterfall strapped inside a kayak, or trying to compose a stunning piano piece that captures the serenity of nature. These are just fragments of Jon Cheney's extraordinary journey as a creator, adventurer, entrepreneur, and man of faith.
From his early years in a musical household where his parents prioritized owning a grand piano before even having proper furniture, to his teenage years in Paraguay learning Spanish, Jon's life has been defined by embracing new challenges. His remarkable ability to master languages – including Mandarin Chinese during his church mission – parallels his approach to music composition, where he sees patterns and structures that most miss.
The heart of our conversation explores Jon's passion for whitewater kayaking and the profound life lessons it's taught him. "You're going to flip over in life," Jon explains with the wisdom of someone who's faced Class 5 rapids and business setbacks alike. "But when you've learned that you can flip over and then get back up and be okay, then the world really opens up." This philosophy has guided him through entrepreneurial ventures, creative pursuits, and personal challenges.
What makes Jon's perspective particularly refreshing is his recent epiphany about pursuing multiple passions. After years of praying for divine guidance on which path to choose – music, adventure, business, or writing – he found peace in Elder Uchtdorf's simple wisdom: "It mattereth not, only be faithful." This liberating principle has energized Jon to embrace all facets of his creative spirit rather than waiting for permission to begin.
Whether you're considering your own adventure into whitewater kayaking, struggling to choose between multiple passions, or simply seeking inspiration from someone who's mastered the art of getting back up after life flips you over, Jon's story will leave you both entertained and equipped with a new perspective on life's rapids. Follow Jon on Instagram @cheneypiano or on his website joncheney.com to continue following his journey of creation and adventure!
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
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.
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By Jake Bushman
5
3333 ratings
#154 - Imagine plunging down a 35-foot waterfall strapped inside a kayak, or trying to compose a stunning piano piece that captures the serenity of nature. These are just fragments of Jon Cheney's extraordinary journey as a creator, adventurer, entrepreneur, and man of faith.
From his early years in a musical household where his parents prioritized owning a grand piano before even having proper furniture, to his teenage years in Paraguay learning Spanish, Jon's life has been defined by embracing new challenges. His remarkable ability to master languages – including Mandarin Chinese during his church mission – parallels his approach to music composition, where he sees patterns and structures that most miss.
The heart of our conversation explores Jon's passion for whitewater kayaking and the profound life lessons it's taught him. "You're going to flip over in life," Jon explains with the wisdom of someone who's faced Class 5 rapids and business setbacks alike. "But when you've learned that you can flip over and then get back up and be okay, then the world really opens up." This philosophy has guided him through entrepreneurial ventures, creative pursuits, and personal challenges.
What makes Jon's perspective particularly refreshing is his recent epiphany about pursuing multiple passions. After years of praying for divine guidance on which path to choose – music, adventure, business, or writing – he found peace in Elder Uchtdorf's simple wisdom: "It mattereth not, only be faithful." This liberating principle has energized Jon to embrace all facets of his creative spirit rather than waiting for permission to begin.
Whether you're considering your own adventure into whitewater kayaking, struggling to choose between multiple passions, or simply seeking inspiration from someone who's mastered the art of getting back up after life flips you over, Jon's story will leave you both entertained and equipped with a new perspective on life's rapids. Follow Jon on Instagram @cheneypiano or on his website joncheney.com to continue following his journey of creation and adventure!
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
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.