Tag: happiness

Episode 28: The Psychology of Adventure with Matt Walker

Welcome back to The On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today, my conversation is with Matt Walker. Matt is a unique blend of psychologist and adventurer, who has spent nearly 30 years leading expeditions on multiple continents. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind adventure, the importance of doing hard things, and why integrating adventure into our lives is vital. Matt shares his insights on how discomfort can be a powerful tool for growth and how adventure helps us build resilience and find clarity. We also touch on his upcoming webinar that I will be hosting, so stay tuned for that!

Timeline Summary

[00:00] – Introduction to Matt Walker, his unique background, and the upcoming webinar on integrating adventure into our lives.
[02:07] – Matt talks about his journey into adventure and psychology, and the connection between the two.
[05:00] – Discussing the real “why” behind adventure and how it ties into personal and professional growth.
[10:12] – Reflecting on the potential disruptions of changing sleep habits.
[14:24] – Matt explains the five elements of adventure: High Endeavor, Uncertain Outcome, Total Commitment, Tolerance for Adversity, and Great Companionship.
[19:00] – The role of great companionship in meaningful adventures and how solo endeavors still require support.
[25:00] – Overcoming fear in mountaineering and how it parallels with facing life’s challenges.
[32:00] – The importance of intentionality and purpose in manhood and how adventure helps achieve this.
[43:00] – Matt’s personal adventures, including building a house and planning solo ascents of 8,000-meter peaks.
[47:00] – Closing remarks and how to connect with Matt Walker for more insights and support.

Links & Resources

Closing Remarks

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed our conversation with Matt Walker, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don’t forget to check out the links and resources mentioned, and as always, pursue your own great adventure!

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Episode 27: Using adventure for self-discovery and feeling fully alive with Scott MacKillop

Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Scott MacKillop, a seasoned financial professional and avid outdoorsman. Despite our shared background in finance, our conversation veered away from the boardroom and delved into the thrilling world of outdoor adventures. Scott shared how his passion for the outdoors was self-developed rather than instilled by his parents, and how fear serves as a clarifying force for him, whether on the mountain or in the boardroom.

Throughout our discussion, Scott talked about his extensive career, innovative achievements, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from pushing his limits in nature. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the peaks of Colorado, Scott’s adventures have given him a profound sense of being fully alive, experiencing all emotions and embracing the challenges that come with pushing oneself to the edge. We also explored the significance of self-discovery and the joy of living, which Scott finds in every adventure he undertakes. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights into the intertwining of adventure and personal growth.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] – Introduction to Scott MacKillop and his background in finance and outdoor adventures.
[01:00] – Scott’s unique perspective on fear and clarity.
[03:00] – Early life and the development of Scott’s love for the outdoors.
[06:00] – Memorable outdoor experiences and the influence of his childhood.
[14:00] – Transition from DC to Colorado and the role of running in Scott’s life.
[20:00] – Facing and overcoming physical and mental challenges in adventure.
[27:00] – Scott’s near-death experience during a solo hike in Colorado.
[35:00] – The mental aspect of pushing limits and setting goals.
[45:00] – Reflecting on past adventures and the continuous pursuit of new challenges.
[50:00] – Upcoming adventures and the importance of staying active.

Links & Resources:

Cactus to Clouds trail
Connect with Scott MacKillop on LinkedIn: Scott MacKillop
More about the Camino del Santiago: Camino del Santiago

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to you. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and pursuing your own great adventures!

Check out this episode!

contentment financial life planning happiness

Episode 26: Life is an Adventure, Plan for It with Terry Foxworth

Get ready for an exhilarating ride in this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I chat with Terry Foxworth. Terry’s journey is a testament to persistence, an unquenchable thirst for adventure, and a masterful balance between a professional career and an adventurous lifestyle. From the picturesque landscapes of South Carolina to the roaring rapids of whitewater kayaking, grueling ultramarathons, and the pristine slopes of skiing, Terry’s tales will ignite your adventurous spirit. We also dive into his epic cross-country bicycle journey with his daughter, filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable memories. Tune in and let Terry’s stories inspire your next adventure!

Timeline Summary:

[00:04:18] Terry returns to Asheville and recounts the challenge of navigating a massive snowstorm.
[00:05:20] Unpacking connections with Brew Davis, a mutual friend from university days, and how these relationships fuel adventure.
[00:09:00] Terry’s educational journey and the pivotal experiences that shaped his career and love for the outdoors.
[00:27:01] Growing up in South Carolina: How a small-town boy developed a passion for adventure.
[00:36:00] The life-changing backpacking trip in the Smokies that sparked Terry’s lifelong love for the great outdoors.
[00:42:00] Diving into Terry’s whitewater kayaking adventures and his transformative move to Greenville.
[00:56:00] Josh shares a thrilling tale of a backpacking trip with his son, filled with unexpected lessons.
[01:12:00] The epic story of Terry’s cross-country bike trip with his daughter: Planning, perseverance, and priceless memories.

Links & Resources:

Transamerica Bicycle Trail: Adventure Cycling Association
Nantahala Outdoor Center: NOC
Furman University: Furman
Foxworth Advisors, LLC

Closing Remark:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the On
Adventure Podcast. Share it with friends and family who might find Terry’s
story as inspiring as we did. Join us next time for more incredible
journeys and motivational tales!

Check out this episode!

Adventure contentment financial life planning happiness outdoors

Episode 24: Stories Rather Than Regrets with Pete Ripmaster

Welcome back to the On Adventure podcast! In today’s episode, we have an inspiring and candid conversation with Pete Ripmaster. Pete, now a seasoned ultra-endurance athlete, shares his journey from the highs and lows of his athletic pursuits to his personal battles and triumphs. In fact, it all started with a Couch-to-Marathon run, and he kept going from there! We delve into his history, including the incredible feat of winning the 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail Invitational on foot (in February!), his adventures in Alaska, and the lessons learned from pushing beyond the limits. Pete’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.

Pete’s philosophy of “stories rather than regrets” is evident in his approach to ultra-running. Whether he’s tackling organized races or his unique “homemade 100’s,” Pete’s willingness to suffer and push through mental and physical barriers is key to his success. His adventures showcase the power of perseverance and the rewards of stepping outside your comfort zone.

Join us as we explore:

Pete’s early life and the pivotal moments that shaped his path
The transition from the couch to a marathoner to an ultra-endurance runner
The mental and physical challenges of running the Iditarod Trail Invitational
Pete’s “homemade 100’s” and what drives him to create his own ultra-endurance challenges
Insights into the world of ultra-running and the community around it
Pete’s future aspirations and what drives him to keep pushing forward

This episode is packed with raw and heartfelt reflections that will leave you inspired to tackle your own adventures. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey with Pete Ripmaster!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction to Pete Ripmaster and the essence of today’s episode

[02:28] Pete’s background and his self-identity as a runner, husband, and father

[10:00] Reflections on Pete’s childhood and the significant impact of his family

[18:00] The pivotal moment and the transition from a wild lifestyle to purposeful living

[24:05] Pete’s first impromptu marathon and the beginning of his running journey

[32:00] The decision to run 50 marathons in 50 states and raise funds for breast cancer research

[38:00] Delving into ultra-running: from 50K to 1,000 miles

[46:00] The challenges and triumphs of the Iditarod Trail Invitational

[53:00] Pete’s “homemade 100’s” and his drive to create unique endurance challenges

[57:00] The mental game in ultra-endurance sports and pushing through limits

[01:03:00] What’s next for Pete after ultra-running

Links & Resources:

Thank you for tuning into this episode with Pete Ripmaster! If you enjoyed our conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. Keep pursuing your great adventures, and we’ll catch you in the next episode!

Check out this episode!

contentment endurance happiness ultra

Episode 23: Endurance Unleashed: From UltraMan to Personal Revelations with Van Fletcher

Welcome back to another episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I dive deep into the extraordinary tales of endurance and personal growth, probing why everyday explorers continue to push their own limits. In this episode, I reconnect with Van Fletcher, a dad, a real estate professional, and, oh yeah, a world class triathlete AND an ultraman competitor.

Van’s story isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s a profound journey of resilience, community, and self-discovery. This episode is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive, no matter the challenge. Van Fletcher’s journey is sure to inspire not just athletes but anyone looking to overcome their personal barriers.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome: I introduce Van Fletcher, my first repeat guest, discussing his recent adventures and astounding achievements in the Ultraman Florida—a race that pushes human limits with its extreme distances.
[10:12] Trials and Triumphs: Van shares his rigorous experiences and the emotional rollercoaster of participating in high-endurance races, including Ironman events and the mental strategies needed to overcome unexpected obstacles.
[22:00] Community and Support: The critical role of community in endurance sports. Van emphasizes how his crew’s support and camaraderie were pivotal in his successes and overcoming the daunting challenges of Ultraman.
[35:00] Physical and Mental Resilience: Insights into Van’s training regimen and how overcoming injuries and personal setbacks have shaped his approach to racing and life.
[45:00] Beyond the Finish Line: Van discusses the broader impact of his racing career on personal growth and his future aspirations in the world of endurance sports.

Links & Resources:

Closing Thoughts: If today’s journey through extreme endurance and personal triumphs inspired you, remember to rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more such inspiring stories. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and exploring your own great adventure!

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Adventure contentment endurance happiness podcast

Episode 22: Beyond the Summit: Exploring the Depths with Kenton Cool

*Credit Elia Saikaly – Kenton on the Everest summit

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Kenton Cool, a legendary high-altitude climber with an incredible record of Everest ascents and a storied career in mountain exploration. Dive into a conversation that explores not only the physical heights of the world’s most formidable peaks but also the profound depths of personal ambition, resilience, and self-discovery.

Episode Highlights:

[00:02:22] – Kenton recounts the challenges and thrills of achieving the Everest Triple Crown, offering a vivid glimpse into the life of a high-altitude climber.
[00:13:00] – Discover Kenton’s unique approach to leadership and team-building in extreme conditions, drawing from his extensive experience as a guide and speaker.
[00:22:13] – Delve into the ethos behind Kenton’s climbing philosophy—how passion, mindset, and the power of setting goals propel him forward.
[00:35:45] – A reflective moment as Kenton shares how his personal life, particularly fatherhood, reshapes his perspectives on adventure and the sacrifices it entails.
[00:47:28] – Hear about Kenton’s transformative experiences with local cultures and communities, enriching his journeys and broadening his world view.

Links & Resources:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing our show on your favorite podcast platform. Share with friends and fellow enthusiasts who might enjoy diving into the world of all-things adventure! Your support helps us bring more inspiring and enlightening content. Thank you for joining us, and keep seeking your adventures!

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Adventure climbing contentment everest happiness

Episode 21: No way out but through with Robbie Lenfestey

Episode Summary

In this captivating episode of the On Adventure podcast, host Josh Self interviews Robbie Lenfestey at his remarkable retreat, Mandala Springs, located in the scenic mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina. Robbie, a man of profound wisdom and thrilling life experiences, shares his extraordinary adventures that have taken him from being kidnapped in Argentina to climbing the towering peaks of Aconcagua and encountering the renowned breath expert, Wim Hof.

The conversation opens with Robbie recounting his unexpected yet transformative journey through Argentina, where a planned permaculture internship turned into a gripping survival scenario involving a 10-day cattle drive gone awry. Robbie’s vivid storytelling transports listeners to the rugged wilderness of Patagonia, where he faced extreme weather, navigated cultural challenges, and ultimately had to escape from a dangerous situation instigated by an eccentric and irresponsible billionaire. This adventure culminated in Robbie, driven by necessity and fueled by his indomitable spirit, becoming one of the youngest people to solo climb Aconcagua, facing not only physical extremes but also profound personal realizations about his limits and capabilities.

The episode peels back the layers of Robbie’s adventurous spirit, exploring how his early life challenges and unconventional childhood experiences primed him for a life filled with exploration and self-discovery. From tales of his harrowing experiences in the wild to his philosophical insights on overcoming personal traumas and societal expectations, Robbie offers an introspective look into how embracing the unknown has profoundly shaped his understanding of himself and his approach to life.

Listeners are treated to a journey that is as introspective as it is exhilarating, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in how extreme experiences can lead to profound wisdom and personal growth.