Episode 50: What My Son Taught Me About True Strength and Courage with Hudson Self


In this heartfelt episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with a younger Everyday Explorer, my son Hudson, for a conversation that redefines what adventure truly means. While we often explore tales of physical challenge and bold travel, this episode takes us on an inward journey—a story of persistence, identity, and the courage to live fully despite daily challenges. Hudson lives with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic condition, and he brings us into his world with sincerity, wisdom, and humor.

We talk about what it’s like to grow up with PWS, the unique joys and struggles that come with it, and how it’s shaped Hudson’s perspective on life. He shares how adventure isn’t just found on mountaintops or across oceans—it’s in the relationships we build, the obstacles we face, and the love we share. From exploring WWII history in Europe to dreaming about the Great Wall of China, Hudson reminds us that the truest adventures are often the ones that take place in our own hearts and homes. This episode is not just a story of difference—it’s a story of belonging, resilience, and the extraordinary power of being seen and included.

⏱️ Timeline Summary

  • [0:00] – Meet Hudson Self and an introduction to Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month

  • [1:00] – Hudson’s heartfelt presentation on living with PWS

  • [3:00] – Sharing his passions and personal joys beyond the diagnosis

  • [5:00] – The importance of inclusion and being treated like everyone else

  • [7:00] – Discussing the constant challenge of hunger with PWS

  • [9:00] – How PWS brought meaningful relationships and mentors into Hudson’s life

  • [10:00] – Visiting historical sites in Europe and the emotional impact of Normandy

  • [12:00] – Dreaming of a future adventure to the Great Wall of China

  • [13:00] – Favorite memories from a Jurassic-themed trip to Hawaii

🔗 Links & Resources

🎧 Closing Thoughts

This episode is a powerful reminder that adventure comes in many forms. If Hudson’s story moved you, inspired you, or made you think a little differently, please consider rating, following, and sharing the podcast from our YouTube (this is brand new!), Instagram and Facebook pages (this is new too!). And don’t forget to leave a review—we’d love to hear from you.

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Episode 47: Suffering together with Patrick Serfass


Some stories grab you right from the first sentence—and this one, with Patrick Serfass, took me on a ride I didn’t want to end.

Patrick isn’t just a triathlete, or a renewable energy leader, or a dad raising two adventurous boys. He’s a guy who once said yes to sailing a 26-foot boat with no refrigeration all the way to South America. A guy who climbed the Grand Teton without any prior climbing experience. But what really makes his story stick with you is what happened when all of that—his athletic identity, his mobility, his very sense of self—got upended in a moment.

In this episode, we talk about what it means to suffer well, how ego can drive growth, and why the most powerful moments in life often come through challenge. We talk about trust, adventure, the loneliness of injury, and the healing that comes when you’re surrounded by people who say, “I’ve got you.” If you’ve ever been forced to let go of something you thought defined you—this one’s for you.

⏱️ Timestamps

[1:12] – Patrick introduces his family and his lifelong pull toward movement and travel
[5:55] – A spontaneous dinner conversation leads to a year-long sailing adventure
[12:01] – Why shared suffering forges deeper connection than comfort ever could
[17:40] – Losing the ability to run, and finding new purpose beyond the podium
[30:17] – What happens when your body becomes the limiting factor—and you say yes anyway
[35:12] – Climbing Grand Teton without climbing experience: fear, faith, and the magic of the mountains
[47:40] – The unexpected rewards of pushing through what scares us
[56:00] – What it really means to “stay in shape for the next adventure”—and why it’s not just physical

🔗 Links & Resources

If you’ve ever had to redefine who you are, if you’ve ever stood at the edge of something scary and whispered “yes,” I hope this episode reminds you: you’re not alone.

And hey—if it did speak to you, don’t forget to share the love. Follow, rate, and leave a review to help On Adventure reach more listeners who need these stories just as much as we do.

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Episode 46: The Great Nearby – Chasing Wild in North Carolina with John Norwood


In this fun episode, Josh sits down with John Norwood, a commercial banker from Raleigh, North Carolina, whose second identity is that of a passionate adventurer. While John’s day job revolves around numbers and negotiations, his soul is stirred by trails, waterfalls, and sunfish sails. Rather than jetting off to exotic lands, John finds endless wonder in his own backyard—the mountains, lakes, and coastlines of North Carolina.

Together, they explore John’s lifelong connection with the outdoors, how he blends adventure with a full-time career, and how he’s cultivated a community of fellow explorers. From Christmas Day hikes to dry-suit sailing in winter winds, John shares stories that blend practical inspiration with a bit of wanderlust magic. 🌲🛶

⏱️ Timestamps

  • [00:00:00] Introduction to John Norwood and his adventurous alter ego

  • [00:03:00] Family traditions and the origin of the “dreaded Christmas hike”

  • [00:06:00] Sailing in dry suits and winter wind at Falls & Jordan Lake

  • [00:11:00] An unforgettable halibut fishing trip in Alaska

  • [00:16:00] Why John chooses to adventure local

  • [00:18:00] The magic of Grayson Highlands and wild ponies

  • [00:24:00] John’s roots in outdoor exploration

  • [00:33:00] The 11-year quest to complete 100 Classic NC Hikes

  • [00:37:00] Turning solo trips into a thriving hiking community

  • [00:41:00] The deep “why” behind adventuring: mental clarity, physical challenge, and spiritual renewal

  • [00:51:00] Upcoming trips: Cape Lookout Jeep expedition & AT alternatives post-Hurricane Helene

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • Adventure is everywhere – You don’t need a passport to find wonder.

  • Make space for solitude – Recharging happens when you unplug and reconnect with nature.

  • Community grows through shared challenge – John’s trips turned into a tribe.

  • Local treasures, lifetime stories – From Grayson Highlands to the Sycamore Trail sleep hack, there’s beauty in repetition.

“The trail gives me solitude, structure, and stories—and that’s what keeps me coming back.” – John Norwood

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Episode 43: Beyond the Pavement with Frank Trotter


What do banking and backcountry exploration have in common? More than you’d think! In this episode of the On Adventure, I sit down with Frank Trotter—banking pioneer, entrepreneur, and avid adventurer. From his early days racing cars in Europe to co-founding EverBank and now launching Battle Bank, Frank shares how his career has been driven by innovation and a passion for pushing boundaries. But it’s not all business—Frank also dives into his love for outdoor exploration, from summiting 14ers in Colorado to backcountry treks in Argentina.

We talk about the lessons learned from extreme environments, the balance between risk and reward, and how his entrepreneurial spirit aligns with his drive for adventure. Plus, we dive into the incredible Excellent Adventures group and why surrounding yourself with the right people makes all the difference—whether in business or the wilderness.

Episode Highlights:

  • [2:00] Frank’s journey from hockey in St. Louis to racing cars in Europe
  • [6:30] The evolution of internet banking and why he’s launching Battle Bank
  • [10:45] The hidden ways big banks profit off their customers
  • [18:20] The Excellent Adventures hiking group and its impact on Frank’s outdoor pursuits
  • [24:15] Facing physical challenges—how a medical study changed his ability to keep exploring
  • [35:40] The connection between adventure, mindfulness, and perspective
  • [48:00] Knowing when to push forward and when to turn back—lessons from the mountains
  • [52:30] What’s next? Zion, GoPro Games, and upcoming adventures

Links & Resources:

Enjoyed this episode?

Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow adventurer. And if you haven’t already, sign up for my newsletter, The Money Trail Guide, at www.ridgelinewealthadvisors.com to stay inspired on your financial and adventure journey!

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Episode 42: Endurance, Exploration, and the Art of Adventure with Roy Malone


What does it take to push your body and mind to the limit for days on end—while relying entirely on a team? The answer is epic!  In this episode, I sit down with seasoned adventure racer Roy Malone, who has spent the past 24 years competing in some of the toughest endurance races in the world. From trekking through the jungles of Fiji to navigating the badlands of North Dakota, Roy shares the highs, the lows, and the life lessons that come from competing in these multi-day, non-stop races.

We dive deep into the mental and physical grit required to finish these extreme challenges, the team dynamics that make or break success, and how adventure racing parallels the business world in unexpected ways. Roy also talks about his new venture, TerraVenture, which is bringing adventure to everyday explorers who crave the thrill of the unknown. If you’re curious about endurance racing, risk-taking, or just want to hear some unbelievable stories from the wild, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights

[00:00] – Welcome and introduction to Roy Malone
[02:45] – How Roy balances adventure racing, family life, and a career in finance
[08:10] – What is adventure racing? A deep dive into the sport’s extreme challenges
[12:30] – The mental game: Handling sleep deprivation, exhaustion, and team dynamics
[22:00] – Hallucinations on the trail: Roy’s wildest experiences in multi-day races
[31:15] – The toughest race of Roy’s career and why Fiji pushed him to his limit
[40:45] – TerraVenture: Roy’s mission to bring adventure racing to a broader audience
[55:00] – What’s next? How long Roy plans to keep competing and where he’s headed next

Links & Resources

🔗 Learn more about Team Bones Adventure Racing: BonesAdventure.com
🔗 Explore Roy’s new company, TerraVenture: Terra-Venture.com
📧 Connect with Roy via email:

Enjoyed the episode?

If you loved this conversation, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the show! And don’t forget to share it with a fellow adventurer. 🚀🎙️

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Episode 41: A Journey of Resilience and Rediscovery with Jenna Carroll


In this episode of The On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Jenna Carroll, a hiking guide and endurance athlete who transformed her life by stepping off the corporate treadmill and onto the Appalachian Trail. Jenna shares her incredible journey, from her early days as a basketball star and management consultant to finding her passion for long-distance hiking and trail running. We delve into her 2021 northbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, her life-changing decision to make the outdoors her career, and her remarkable return to the trail in 2023 to attempt a self-supported fastest known time (FKT).

Along the way, Jenna reflects on the emotional highs and lows of solo hiking, the invaluable lessons of community and resilience, and how nature continues to fuel her creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just curious about life’s unpredictable paths, Jenna’s story is sure to inspire.

Episode Highlights:
[2:10] – Introducing Jenna Carroll: From basketball star to corporate life to hiker-extraordinaire.
[6:45] – Jenna’s first thru-hike: Why she left her desk job to tackle the Appalachian Trail.
[15:30] – Overcoming freezing temps on Blood Mountain: Jenna’s turning point just four days into the trail.
[24:40] – Post-trail life: Moving to Asheville, finding her calling as a hiking guide, and rediscovering creativity through poetry.
[39:00] – Tackling personal endurance challenges: Jenna’s first 50K and her epic Montreat trail day.
[43:50] – Attempting the self-supported FKT: 63 days, 2,200 miles, and lessons learned on the Appalachian Trail.
[57:00] – The value of community: How connection and support fueled Jenna’s solo adventures.
[1:02:30] – What’s next for Jenna: A 100-mile race, guiding trips, and continuing her journey in Asheville.

Links & Resources:

  • Blue Ridge Hiking Company
  • Books that inspired Jenna:
    • Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home by Heather “Anish” Anderson
    • A Beautiful Work in Progress by Myrna Valerio
  • Learn more about Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern U.S. here.

Closing:
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share On Adventure! It means the world to us and helps us reach more adventure seekers like you. Until next time, I hope you find your next great adventure.

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Episode 40: Courage, Connection, and Living Fully on Adventure with Wells Jones


What does it mean to live a life of adventure, and how do the challenges we face shape our purpose? In this episode, we sit down with Wells Jones, author of the gripping novel A Line in the Sand and a man whose life has been anything but ordinary. Wells shares his journey from his days as a Navy Air Rescue team member to his experiences as a producer, actor, and adventurer.

Our conversation touches on his transformative treks through the Middle East, retracing the steps of T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), and how those experiences inspired his new novel. Wells also opens up about the lessons learned from turning back in precarious situations, the importance of having a purpose in every endeavor, and how human connection can transcend cultural divides. Tune in for a captivating discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own definition of adventure.

Episode Highlights

[2:15] – Wells reflects on his upbringing, family dynamics, and the early loss of his father that shaped his adventurous spirit.
[6:50] – Navy Air Rescue: From parachuting to mountain rescues in Antarctica, Wells recalls life-changing experiences and how they prepared him for life’s challenges.
[12:30] – The philosophy of adventure: What George Mallory and Winston Churchill taught Wells about conquering oneself.
[20:15] – Facing danger: Wells shares harrowing stories, including a near-death moment during a precision skydive practice.
[38:00] – Trekking the Middle East: Retracing T.E. Lawrence’s journey during the Arab Revolt and the human connections that inspired A Line in the Sand.
[50:30] – The heart of the book: How historical fiction blends real-life events with storytelling to shed light on the complexities of the modern Middle East.
[1:00:15] – Wells’ hopes for readers of his book: The lessons of history and the importance of seeing humanity in everyone.

Links & Resources

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this deep dive into Wells Jones’ incredible life story. If you found inspiration in this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast with your fellow adventurers. Don’t forget to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and as always, live your great adventure.

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Episode 38: From the Wilderness to the Operating Room with Dr. Tommy Gavigan


In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I catch up with an old friend and fraternity brother, Dr. Tommy Gavigan. From our days at the University of North Carolina to his current life as a practicing surgeon in Charlotte, Tommy’s journey has been anything but conventional. After college, Tommy spent nearly a decade guiding teenagers into remote wilderness areas with Moondance Adventures—experiences that shaped not only his leadership but also his path into medicine.

We explore the connection between pushing past your comfort zone in the backcountry and managing high-stakes scenarios in the operating room. Tommy shares incredible stories of adventure, personal growth, and how these experiences molded his outlook on life. Now in his “Adventure 3.0,” he reflects on fatherhood, future aspirations, and why challenging yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—is key to living fully.

This episode is a deep dive into why we seek hard things, what we gain on the other side, and how adventure can prepare us for life’s biggest moments.

Episode Highlights

  • [1:10] – Introduction: Reconnecting with Tommy and his unique journey post-UNC.
  • [4:45] – The Moondance Adventures: From green teenagers to life-changing moments in the wilderness.
  • [12:30] – Real backcountry challenges: Lightning storms, hypothermia, and a rare grizzly bear encounter.
  • [18:00] – Service through adventure: Teaching kids leadership, grit, and resilience.
  • [31:30] – From outdoor leader to surgeon: Tommy’s leap into medicine and his pivotal “letter to the future self.”
  • [39:20] – Adventure 3.0: Parenthood, teaching his son the outdoors, and future dreams.
  • [42:15] – Managing high-stakes stress: Lessons from the wilderness to the operating room.
  • [45:30] – What’s next? Personal peaks, challenges, and expanding the comfort zone.

Links & Resources

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Episode 36: Beyond the Pain Cave – Lessons from Ultra Adventures with Scott Hanson


In the latest episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Scott Hanson, a true veteran of endurance challenges and an influential figure in the financial industry. Scott’s story is one of resilience, determination, and finding purpose through pushing physical and mental boundaries. Our conversation explores Scott’s journey from casual running to completing the grueling Western States 100—a 100-mile ultramarathon with 19,000 feet of elevation gain—and how that experience, among others, shaped his approach to life and business. We also dive into his memorable adventure up Mount Fuji, where cultural and personal growth merged in an unforgettable climb.

Join us as Scott shares the highs and lows of his adventures, from overcoming pain and doubt during ultramarathons to the life lessons he’s applied from these challenges to his professional and personal life.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction – Meeting Scott Hanson

[02:08] Scott’s Journey Begins – From reluctant high school runner to becoming captivated by endurance sports.

[06:22] Training and Competing – Navigating family, work, and training routines with morning runs and long days on the trail.

[20:00] The Western States 100 Experience – The mental and physical battles of one of the world’s toughest races.

[23:48] Lessons Learned – How pushing through “the pain cave” taught Scott resilience and mental fortitude that extend beyond sport.

[27:27] Reflecting on Challenges – Applying adventure-driven tenacity to everyday life and professional challenges.

[39:00] Mount Fuji – A cultural and physical journey with friends and family, complete with lessons in humility and awe.

[48:35] The Future of Adventure – Scott’s plans and reflections on maintaining an adventurous spirit as life evolves.

Links & Resources:

Closing Remarks: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share the On Adventure Podcast. Your feedback helps us bring more inspiring stories like Scott Hanson’s to your ears!

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Episode 35: Building Perserverance Through Hardship, Competition and Adventure with Owen Hayden


Join me for a cool conversation with Owen Hayden, a high-energy adventurer, corporate achiever, and former athlete who’s mastered the art of resilience. Owen shares his journey from a high-level sports career to navigating the challenges of the corporate world, all while staying connected to his passion for adventure. We discuss what it takes to push through adversity, the lessons he learned from sports, and his pursuit of grit as a defining trait both on and off the field. Plus, you’ll hear about Owen’s commitment to exploring the world—from Glacier National Park with his young family to Ironman races and rodeos. If you’ve ever been curious about finding purpose and adventure in everyday life, this episode is for you.

Highlights:

  • [00:01:32] Owen’s career journey: From corporate climber to world traveler.
  • [03:00] Hiking Glacier National Park with a baby in tow—tips for family adventurers.
  • [07:00] The power of sports and family in building resilience and grit.
  • [11:30] Learning from loss: how adversity shapes our drive and character.
  • [14:00] Coaches and mentors: the unexpected father figures who shaped Owen’s path.
  • [24:19] Finding a new “team” after sports: how CrossFit and community fill the gap.
  • [32:00] Bucket list adventures: How Owen plans to keep exploring with his family.

Links & Resources:

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