Wild Ideas Worth Living

Aspen’s Wild Idea: To rebuild her mental and emotional strength by hiking the entire Pacific Crest Trail, and her journey in the book, Girl In the Woods Editor's note: This episode contains references to sexual violence and may not be suitable for all audiences. After being raped her second night of her freshman year in college, Aspen Matis grew depressed and was shocked at how her school didn’t believe her, and how little they did to protect her. She’d spent a lot of time in the outdoors in growing up, and knew that getting into the wilderness could bring her a sense of peace and healing. Instead of returning to school, she dropped out and embarked on a 2,000-mile journey to walk the PCT from Mexico to Canada. She shared the story of her journey in the 2015 book, Girl in the Woods, which became an international bestseller. It’s a story that’s equally vulnerable and fearless, one where Aspen shares moments of magic from the trail and its healing power. It’s also a book I couldn’t put down and has resonated with many, including receiving praise from people like Lena Dunham, Cheryl Strayed, Oprah Magazine, and many more. I talk with Aspen about her time on the PCT, her favorite things about the hike and how she made it through some of the most challenging days. We also dive deep into her gear recommendations, especially for those who like to go lightweight, and what she had with her. At the end, Aspen shares with us a book she’s working on now, the first time she’s shared this information with the world. Listen to this episode if: You or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault. You’ve ever wanted to hike the PCT. You love geeking out about gear. You think nature has magical powers. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/80 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beth’s Wild Idea: To become a world class rock climber, and inspire others to find their own drive and definition of happiness and success. Beth Rodden started climbing in indoor gyms when she was 14. She quickly won national competitions, and then began climbing outside around the world. She became famous for free climbing the nose on El Capitan. She also completed many other first ascents, like free climbing the Meltown, a 5.14c route in Yosemite, where she showed the world women can climb as well as men. It hasn’t all been easy on and off the wall for Beth, though. In 2000, Beth and three of her climbing partners were on a climbing trip in Kyrgyzstan when they were captured by members of the IMU, a militant group. They escaped on the sixth day, but no one at home even knew they’d been kidnapped. A few years later, Beth went through a divorce. After that, she decided to break down her own ideals about perfectionism and being a constant overachiever. I love Beth’s story because it’s honest, and perfectionism is something I’ve struggled with and many listeners told me they struggle with. While Beth speaks about breaking the perfectionist cycle, she’s also achieved a version of success and happiness that works for her. She still climbs. She’s a sought-after speaker, a beautiful writer, she’s remarried, and a mom to a four-year old son. We talked about what it was like to share the story of her kidnapping with the world, what she has learned from being a mom, and how you can shatter your own ideals about perfectionism. We also dive into her relationship with climbing today, and what’s it like to live in the magical valley of Yosemite. Listen to this episode if: You’re a climber. You are a recovering perfectionist. You want to visit or have been to Yosemite. You are still looking for your own sense of drive and passion. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/79 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael’s Wild Idea: To write captivating stories about people who live on the fringes of society and do wild things. Michael Finkel is the author of the New York Times bestseller, The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit, which we dive deep into on today’s show. The story chronicles a highly intelligent man that lived alone in the woods of Maine for 27 years without lighting a single fire, or talking to a single soul. An outdoors lover himself, who splits time between Montana and Southern France, Michael has a penchant for stories about those who live on the edges of society, and people who live with less. On assignment as a journalist for the likes of the New York Times and National Geographic, he’s skied off the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, set sail on a Haitian refugee boat, joined a cult in Colorado, been in a car that was run over by a tank in Afghanistan, and covered the last hunter-gatherer tribes. His previous book, True Story, was adapted into a 2015 major motion picture produced by Brad Pitt starring James Franco and Jonah Hill. Listen to this episode if: You want to be a writer. You’ve ever thought of leaving it all behind to live alone in the woods. You enjoy hearing from amazing storytellers. You love stories of survival and those who can thrive with less. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/78 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rebecca’s Wild Idea: To encourage others to take risks, push themselves physically and mentally, and get everyone in the world on a bike. Today we welcome back Rebecca Rusch, this show’s first repeat guest. Rebecca has been called a modern day wonder woman and the queen of pain for her ability to not only withstand harsh conditions in endurance racing, but for her well-versed career. She has been a pro athlete for over three decades. She’s a seven-time world champion, author, philanthropist, and she’s shattered the glass ceiling in everything she’s done from finishing ahead of every guy in major mountain bike races, becoming a fire fighter, breaking records, and winning major adventure and endurance mountain bike races. Since we last spoke, Rebecca was on tour with the feature film Blood Road, which follows her journey along the 1200km Ho Chi Minh Trail to find the site of her father’s plane crash during the Vietnam War. This year, Rebecca is about to celebrate her 50th birthday, and she’s had some time to reflect back on her life. We get deep into her philosophy about how to pave your own path in life and how to make it in a career without a clear road map. We also dive deep into taking risks, how she trains her body, and most importantly how she trains her mind. She also shares tips and science she’s learned from the Red Bull coaches. Listen to this episode if: You love biking, any kind. You want to take more risks in life. You are interested in pushing your body or your mind. You want to hear from a badass athlete and get motivated. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/rebecca-rusch Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl’s Wild Idea: To share her story of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, encourage others to get outside, share their stories, and embrace kindness. Cheryl Strayed is the author of #1 New York Times bestselling memoir Wild about her trek along the Pacific Crest Trail. The book was adapted into an Oscar-nominated movie starring Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern. In addition to writing Wild, Cheryl also wrote the New York Times bestsellers Tiny Beautiful Things and Brave Enough, as well as her first novel, Torch. She is the co-host of Dear Sugar, an advice column turned WBUR podcast, and a true force of nature. On this episode, we talk about hiking, how to choose your best adventure, how to make better decisions about what to do with your life, the party she’d throw, and so much more. I have wanted to interview Cheryl since I read her first book, so this was a real treat. I hope you enjoy this show. *Please note, we are taking next week off, which is important for living wildly. Listen to this episode if: You love Cheryl Strayed. You want to go on a big adventure. You’ve ever thought about being a writer of any kind. You love hiking. You think the world needs more kindness. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/76 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Catra’s Wild Idea: To spend maximum time outdoors trail running while breaking ultramarathon records and helping people and dogs along the way. After battling drug addiction, Catra Corbett hit her bottom, finding herself in jail. Soon after she got sober, Catra discovered her love of fitness. She also started running, and running more. To date, Catra, aka “the Dirt Diva” has run over 260 marathons, over 137 100-mile runs, and set numerous records including becoming the first to run the 424-mile round trip of the John Muir trail in just over 12 days. While she is known in the ultra-running community for her brightly-colored hair, loud running outfits and, numerous piercings and tattoos, most know her now for her tenacious spirit and giant heart. A lover of animals, the vegan runner has adopted numerous dogs including a dachshund named Truman who she’s trained to run and who now has a following larger than most Instagram stars himself. Catra recently penned a book, Reborn On The Run, where she shares her story in its most raw form. We talk about her book, being an unlikely runner, her love of dogs, and why and how she decided to share her most intimate truths. Listen to this episode if: You love running. You want to try an ultramarathon race. You or someone you know has struggled with addiction. You love dogs (especially ones that run). For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/75 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Karen’s and Adriana’s Wild Idea: To encourage diversity in the outdoors and change how the media portrays who plays outside. Part of living wildly is standing up for what you believe in. After not seeing people who looked like them represented in the outdoors, today’s guests took action. Karen Ramos and Adriana Garcia are two young women who started movements to encourage diversity and representation in the outdoor industry. The daughter of migrant farmers turned entrepreneurs, Karen loved being outdoors and camping with her family when she was younger. She wanted to provide that same opportunity to kids today, so she founded Get Out, Stay Out, an organization that connects indigenous-migrant children with the outdoors through hikes, camping trips and multi-day backpacking adventures. Adriana Garcia grew up Mormon, half-Mexican, and in the south. She said she never felt like she belonged until she got outside. Last year, she left her accounting job to co-found LatinX Hikers with her friend, Luz Lituma. It’s become a platform to showcase people from diverse backgrounds participating in outdoor activities. They are offering meet-ups and hikes all over the south. On this show, I talk to Karen and Adriana about their history, some of their unique experiences in the outdoors, how they’re trying to change the landscape of who plays outside, and how you can get involved. Listen to this episode if: You want to see more diversity in the outdoors. Hearing new perspectives matters to you. You want to see people like you represented in the media. The outdoors has helped you. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/74 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark’s Wild Idea: To become a professional photographer taking photos of what he loves. I enjoy interviewing photographers, especially ones who take photos of things I love, like the outdoors, and activities like surfing and snowboarding. Today’s guest, Mark McInnis, is an accomplished photographer who works with a lot of my favorite brands and publications. A lot of his work takes place along the Pacific Northwest, and he loves shooting pictures of freezing cold climates, empty waves and stunning landscapes. Mark has a great personality and a positive outlook on life. We talk about how Mark got his start taking photos, how he contacted his favorite photographer to be his mentor (who happens to be a guest of the show), and how he makes a living doing editorial and advertising work around the globe. Not only does he have a great personal story (I’m going to let you listen to hear it for yourself), but Mark has great advice for those starting out. He shares how he’s made a living as a photographer, and how you can get started today. Listen to this episode if: You love photography or want to be a photographer. You’re close to your family. You love photos of nature, the outdoors, and empty waves. You are trying to not sweat the small stuff. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/73 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diane’s Wild Idea: To run great distances and do what she loves while raising awareness about epilepsy and other great causes. Running 100 miles is remarkable. Running and winning 100+ mile races as a 58-year old who-has had part of their brain removed is a different level. Diane was a professional tennis player before she had epilepsy, but when she started having seizures, running helped stave them off. Ten years into her disease, she decided to have a risky, radical surgery where doctors removed a part of her brain. Once she healed, she started running, this time much longer distances than ever before. While the epilepsy went away, Diane lost some things with the surgery. Today, she struggles with her sense of time, and she has a hard time with her sense of direction, both integral to long distance trail running. Running, however has become is her ultimate medicine, and she’s set some incredible records on her journey. She won the infamous Yukon Arctic Ultra, a 430-mile footrace pulling a 50-pound sled through temperatures below 50 degrees for eight days. She climbed South America’s tallest peak. She completed the worlds’ hardest 100-mile race, running for 45 hours straight. She also ran and set record for the 1,000-mile Mountains to Sea Trail, where she traversed the state of North Carolina in just over 22 days for a cause. In addition to being an athletic force, Diane is a long-time athlete for The North Face. She is also a speaker at events like REI’s Outessa series, which is how I found out about her amazing journey. I love how endlessly positive she is, and how she relates to everyone on and off the trail. Diane is a true survivor, an amazing performer, and she has a wonderful perspective on reaching your own potential. Listen to this episode if: You’ve ever wanted to run an ultramarathon or a long-distance trail race. You or someone you know suffers from epilepsy. You’re not one to let health issues keep you from the outdoors. You want to reach your full potential. You are curious what it’d be like to miss your sense of time and direction. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/72 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lacey’s Wild Idea: To protect the environment by fighting fires in the wild. I’ve always been interested in people with careers that allow them to spend time outside and contribute to the greater good. That’s how I found out about wildland firefighter Lacey England. REI recently made a video called “Women in Fire” that features Lacey and some other badass female firefighters and launches April 30th. Lacey was also profiled in the National Forest Foundation series, “Drawn to Flame: Women Forged by Fire.” Fighting wild fires is a career I never heard much about as a kid, so I was fascinated by how Lacey got into it. She shared her story, plus the unglamorous life of her job (it involves Spam and carrying insanely heavy packs), what her day-to-day training entails, and what it’s like to be in a field that is dominated by people that don’t look like her. Plus, she tells us why she’s passionate about inspiring the next generation of young women to pursue careers that may fall outside the norm. Listen to this episode if: You want to protect the environment. You’ve ever thought about being a firefighter. You want to be incredibly strong. Like Hulk strong. You’re a woman in a male-dominated field. You like being alone in the outdoors. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/71 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen’s Wild Idea: To help people unlock their inner badass, and make the kind of money that allows them to live the life they want. We’ve done a few shows about how to find the career you love and how to make the money to create the life you want. I get great feedback on them. This is why I’m so excited to have on one of my favorite authors ever, whose books I gift all the time: Jen Sincero. Jen is the author of You are a Badass and You Are a Badass at Making Money. Her latest book is a guide on how to make more money and teaches you how to release negative views about it. Jen is a free spirit with lots of sass who walks the walk and loves the outdoors. She’s done everything from starting a punk band, to traveling the world, and penning #1 New York Times Bestsellers (multiple times). She also has a no B.S. approach and a great sense of humor that I appreciate, and I think you will too. In this episode, Jen shares how to live more wildly, how to make more money, how to get out of your own way, and how to get started today. I recommend listening through to the end. Listen to this episode if: You want to make more money. You want to work for yourself. You are afraid of failure. You love Jen Sincero’s books. You want to get over fear, self-doubt and perfectionism. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/70 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andrea’s Wild Idea: To start and run an organic farm with her husband, and share her recipes from the foods she grows with the world through her blog and book, Dishing Up The Dirt. Today’s guest has one of the most important jobs you can think of: she’s a farmer and grows the food we eat. After moving from town to town living the nomad lifestyle, Andrea Bemis and her husband, Taylor, started an organic vegetable farm called Tumbleweed Farm in Parkdale, near Hood River, Oregon. We talk about how she got into farming, what she would have done if she wasn’t a farmer, what she’s learned from working on the land, and the realities of farm, which is not always as romantic as it may seem. We also talk about how she turned her passion for growing and cooking her own food into a successful blog, Dishing Up The Dirt, and how that blog gained the attention of a major publisher and resulted in a gorgeous cookbook. Andrea is a delightful storyteller with a great message of having a simple dream and sharing community through food. At the end, Andrea even shares some recipes. Listen to this episode if: You’ve ever thought about quitting your job and moving to a farm. You love local, organic produce. You’re into food blogs and beautiful pictures. You want to grow your own food. You want to write a book, especially a cookbook. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/69 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nick and Shelby’s Wild Idea: To share about their adventure podcasts, both presented by REI Co-op, and turn the microphone back on each other. The word’s out. REI has been my main partner all year and it’s been an awesome, wild ride. They’re also now in the podcast game with not just with my show, but also a new 8-episode series called Take it From Me, that launches this week. We talk to Nick Mott, who is the producer of the show, share a quick clip, and dive into the unique format and adventurous characters he interviews. Nick is a fellow journalist, writer, photographer, and a rock climber. Originally from Kansas and now living in Boulder, Colorado, he loves the outdoors and sharing stories of people going on badass adventures. He also hosts another show about sustainability and has good tips for anyone who wants to start a podcast. After I talk to Nick, he turns the microphone back on me. A lot of people have been asking me to share my story, so I talk about why I started the podcast, what I look for in guests, and some key things I have learned along the way. It’s quick episode. Perfect for a fast run, or a short commute. Enjoy. Listen to this episode if: You love podcasts about the outdoors (which you do, why else would you be here?) You like to get outside. You are looking for an additional wild podcast. You want to start a podcast, or learn more about why I started Wild Ideas Worth Living. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/68 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Liz’s Wild Idea: To live frugally so she and her husband could achieve financial independence and spend more time hiking, homesteading, and doing what they love. Part of living wildly is having the means to pull it off. Traveling and buying gear can add up. On the show, we’ve interviewed dumpster divers, minimalists, and people with side hustles galore. But today we present a new financial take on living wildly. Author Elizabeth Thames, aka Liz Frugalwoods, is the voice behind the blog and new book, Meet the Frugalwoods. Liz and her husband did everything they were supposed to as young adults: they attended a good state college, graduated, and got good jobs. But as millennials working 9-to-5 jobs for non-profits, they knew there was something beyond the daily grind. Instead of just working harder and harder, they instead used extreme frugality so they could retire in their early thirties. Today, Liz and her husband have two daughters and live on a sixty-acre homestead in Vermont. They still spend money on things like farming equipment (which doesn’t come cheap), and she works on her blog only by choice, not because she has to. Instead of making more money so they could have more, they just spent less - a lot less - in order to achieve financial independence. This mindfulness about money led them to a unique, amazing outlook on life, and one that I found motivating. In our conversation, Liz shares some great tips for living frugally (like hacking her SodaStream) and also talks about the psychology of what going with less has done for her own self-esteem. We also get deep into the power of gratitude and privilege, and how having less materially has helped her get more out of life. Listen to this episode if: You want to retire early and achieve financial independence. You’ve ever dreamt of living on a lot of land. Getting outside and going hiking gives you peace of mind. You want to quit your job. You have a five year or more goal. You want to have kids but think they are too expensive. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/67 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Florence’s Wild Idea: To show why being in nature makes us feel so good, with science to back it up. If you are a regular listener to this podcast, chances are you love spending time outside in nature, and you’d love to spend even more time in it. Today’s guest, Florence Williams, knows all about this feeling, and the science behind it. Her book The Nature Fix proves why being in nature makes us happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative. We talk about the research behind it, new research she’s discovered since she wrote it, policy and workplace decisions that have been informed from the book, and how you can squeeze in more time outside, even if you work a 9-to-5 desk job. We also talk about the best places to travel to be in nature, what sounds in nature are the most appealing and advice on writing books. We even delve into some other fun topics including breasts, which Florence wrote about in another book (it’s not a picture book) and some of her favorite authors. Florence is an accomplished writer and speaker. Her writing has appeared everywhere from the New York Times to Outside Magazine, and she’s even hosted a few podcasts herself, so this conversation flows fast. She loves what she does, and you get a sense from listening to her that she really wants others to get more joy in their lives from nature. Listen to this episode if: You love spending time in the outdoors. You want to know why it feels so good to be outside in nature. You care about leading a healthy lifestyle. You want some stats to show your boss/teacher why you need more breaks, more time outside or a window nearby. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/66 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stacy’s Wild Idea: To experience places he and others served in war through outdoor adventures, overcome addiction and use adventure (and humor) for good. Not many of my interviews start with a story about getting kidnapped that are also comedic. But at six-foot-seven with an even bigger personality, Stacy Bare is not your average guy or storyteller. He received a Bronze Star for his time spent serving in Iraq from 2006 to 2007, but struggled with depression, addiction and even contemplated suicide when he returned home from war. When a friend introduced him to rock climbing, however, the course of his life changed forever. Soon after, Stacy created Veterans’ Expeditions and Adventure Not War, taking vets outside and even back to the places they experienced war from the perspective of someone enjoying the outdoors. In 2014, he was named the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, a well-deserved title. Currently the director of The Sierra Club Outdoors, the National Director of Programming and Operations at The Phoenix, as well as a brand champion at The North Face, he’s a sought after speaker and presenter with stories about him everywhere from Men's Journal to Outside Magazine, and for good reason. On this episode we talk about war, the power of the outdoors, how to start a movement, climbing with Alex Honnold, skiing in Iraq, addiction, and so much more. This episode is dedicated to Ann Krcik, an executive at The North Face, and a mentor of Stacy’s, who helped paved the way for many women (and men) in the outdoor industry. Listen to this episode if: You or someone you know is a veteran. You’ve ever survived a trauma. You want to start a movement. You love getting other people outside. You want to laugh at a funny man telling a great story. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/65 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kimmy’s Wild Idea: To create a job for herself as a professional backcountry snowboarder, be a mentor for other riders and remain active through pregnancy. Kimmy Fasani is a well-respected athlete, most known for her aggressive free-style backcountry snowboarding. She has won countless awards like Women’s Rider of the Year, Standout Performance of the Year, and has had some incredible video parts with Standard and Absinthe Films. Kimmy loves mentoring other snowboarders, especially other females and is a vocal ambassador for several nonprofits. On the personal side of her life, Kimmy is married to skier Chris Benchetler and they are part-owners of Dessert’d Organic Bakeshop (and yes, she gets to taste test everything). I recorded this interview after a day on Mammoth Mountain, and at the time Kimmy was about five weeks from having a baby. She opened up about being a pregnant athlete, why people care more about what she does with her body now, and her spiritual journey to getting pregnant. She also shares about how she created her dream job, what it takes to be a pro snowboarder, and how she tackled injuries, self-doubt, fear and overcame some of the hardest times in her life. Listen to this episode if: You want to be a backcountry snowboarder or professional athlete. You want to create your dream job. You want to conquer self-doubt and fear of failure. You have a spiritual side. You want to cultivate a positive mindset, even in the face of adversity. You are an active Mom or Mom-to-be. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/64 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brendan’s Wild Idea: To make a living creating stories about adventure and the human experience through books, film and art. Brendan Leonard is the creator of Semi-Rad, a blog he started in 2011. He’s also an author, adventurer, illustrator, filmmaker, ultra-marathoner, and an all-around interesting guy. Most of his work showcases the joy that comes from adventures done by the everyman and woman, not just for the experts and pros, but people like you and I who like to hit the trails and mountains too! You may recognize Brendan from the movie he just made with REI called How to Run 100 Miles, which is not only about his journey to train for and run an ultra-marathon with his close friend, but it’s about so much more. He’s also a contributor to sites like Dirtbag Diaries and The Adventure Journal, and the author of three books including a memoir about how he overcame addiction. Over the last year, he has built a large following, from his hilarious Seinfeld-esque illustration on his Semi_Rad Instagram account that documents the daily choices we make in the outdoors and as adults. This episode is full of gems and wisdom from a guy making it happen in a major way. Brendan has a great sense of humor, and is not afraid to laugh at himself, a trait I find incredibly admirable. Enjoy! Listen to this episode if: You’ve ever run a long race (have any desire to run one). You want to work for yourself. You want to get paid to do art without being a pro. You love being outside. You’re an adventurer or you like to laugh. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/63 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Outdoor Outreach’s Wild Idea: To help transform the lives of young adults by introducing them to the power of the outdoors. If you’re a regular listener to this show, you’ve probably tasted the power of the outdoors. I remember my first time standing on a wave. You may remember your first time carving through powdery snow, your first long hike, or your first time camping under the stars. Chances are, these experiences impacted you in a major way. Today I talk with four young adults who have been part of Outdoor Outreach, a nonprofit from San Diego that takes kids who might not have otherwise had access to the wonders of nature, on outdoor adventures like snowboarding, rock climbing, snorkeling, hiking, and more. Miriam Pi, Meli Perez Valdez, Lawrence Vallejos, and Gaby Jasso grew up with different backgrounds and share how their trips with Outdoor Outreach changed the path of their life forever. We talk about why they are now leading trips to get other kids outside, what they are doing to encourage adults and people in power to make the outdoors more accessible for all, and how the outdoors is so powerful. With one of these young adults being a DACA recipient, another a former refugee, and the others with diverse backgrounds, their stories are not only timely, but important. Listen to this episode if: You are passionate about being outside. You want more youth to experience nature and the power of the outdoors. You had a rough childhood. You have been impacted by the outdoors. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/62 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donna’s Wild Idea: To be a positive leader, celebrate counterculture, and create more opportunities for people to enjoy the mountains. A few weeks ago at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Denver, I sat down with Donna Carpenter, the CEO and Co-Founder of Burton Snowboards. Donna is a true force of nature. She’s always pushing the envelope with her mission and products, and she radiates positivity and go-for-it, attitude. Donna really opened up in our conversation. She shared about how she became the CEO of one of the biggest snowboard companies ever, some funny stories like how she met her husband, Jake Burton, and what it was like in the early days of snowboarding. We also talked about how they’ve created such a strong culture, overcome adversity, and how they are not afraid to do things like send female staff to the Women’s March in Washington, D.C., and throw huge parties. It’s a great episode about lessons learned from failure and her keys to success. Listen to this episode if: You want to start and run your own business. You want to work at a company with an awesome culture. You love snowboarding. You want to listen to a great female leader. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/61 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andy’s Wild Idea: To pave his own path and make a career spreading aloha vibes through art. Andy Davis is quite possibly my favorite artist ever, and for good reason. He has been called one of the best surf artists of our generation. Using bright colors, and organic, curvy shapes, his work gives you the feeling of being near the water, and exudes a pure, simple joy and aloha spirit. His work has appeared in films by Thomas Campbell, brands like Billabong, Roxy, and his own brand Free, on huge murals, in big stores, and now on the panels of Igloo coolers. We talk about how he forged his own way, passing on traditional education for real work experience, surrounding himself with friends, and continuing to create what he wanted along the way. He has a great sense of humor and a bold outlook on life. Andy’s perspective on following your creative and wild ideas is a breath of fresh air, and one that will most likely inspire you to keep going after what you want. Listen to this episode if: You are an artist or a creative person. You love the aloha vibe. You watched cartoons as a kid. You are into surf culture. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/60 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mirna’s Wild Idea: To run ultra-marathons and advocate for body positivity, showing others fitness comes in many sizes. You may have seen Mirna Valerio, “The Mirnavator.” Her video with REI had millions of views on Facebook. It starts with her reading an angry letter from a guy who wrote to her while she was doing a 50k run. He called her a “fraud,” a “liar,” and said she is not only faking running ultra-marathons, but she’s making a bad name for runners because she is overweight and doesn’t “look like a runner.” Well, Mirna can not only run, but she’s a true force of nature. She’s also a teacher, coach, diversity leader, trained opera singer, mom, wife, and recently added author and brand ambassador to her resume. A few years ago, when Mirna started doing longer runs, she started the site called Fat Girl Running. There weren’t a lot of people who looked like her on the trail, and she wanted to get more people outside running. Her story was featured in the Wall Street Journal in 2015, and then was picked up by Runner’s World, NBC Nightly, CNN, and REI. She has now added a few more titles to her resume: brand ambassador, author of her new book, A Beautiful Work in Progress, and my own addition, total badass! Listening to Mirna talk is inspiring. She has an incredible outlook on the world, she laughs easily, and she isn’t afraid to go deep. We talked about diving into the uncomfortable, dealing with haters, how to create opportunities for yourself, and how you can be a runner no matter what your size, shape, or background. Presented by REI Listen to this episode if: You want to start running. You are self-conscious about your body or fitness level. You need a dose of positivity. You want to break out of your comfort zone. You hate when people tell you that you can’t do something. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/59 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ami’s Wild Idea: To use photography to help people from around the world understand each other and connect. To raise awareness about cultures, communities, animals, and the environment. Ami Vitale is a world-class photographer who has traveled the world on assignment for publications like National Geographic and the Associated Press. She got her start in journalism working as a war correspondent, and now focuses on stories, videos and photos about culture, wildlife and the environment. As a storyteller, she’s traveled to over 90 countries, lived in mud huts and war zones, contracted malaria, and even donned a panda suit. In our conversation, you can hear how compassionate Ami is. She gives everything she has to her work, which is one reason she’s won so many awards and gets asked to give lectures and teach around the globe. She also donates proceeds of her work to benefit charities. You’ll be inspired to go out and do good in the world after this one. Presented by REI Listen to this episode if: You are a photographer or just like taking pictures. You want to help save the environment and animals. You love storytelling. You love animals, especially African elephants and pandas. You want to conquer your fears. You are looking for hope in the world. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/58 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rhonda’s Wild Idea: To combine her love of research and science into a podcast and site where she helps educate people about health and wellbeing practices. Leading a healthy lifestyle is a key component to living wildly. That’s why I’m so excited to have on Dr. Rhonda Patrick. You may have heard her on The Joe Rogan Experience, The Tim Ferriss Show, or on her own podcast, Found My Fitness. She’s done research on and has interviewed some of the top scientists in their field about things like breath work, sauna, training, fasting, and more. Rhonda and I actually know each other from teaching surfing together at the Surf Diva Surf School in our early twenties. We reconnected a year ago when I was researching a story about Wim Hof for Outside Magazine, who she’s spent some time with. I love how she takes complex scientific studies and puts them into plain English so more people (like myself) can understand them. On this show, we talk about everything from health hacks to increase performance on the road or trail, how she got the wild idea to create her own site full of health and science information instead of going the traditional tenure track and working at a university, and how she got the attention of people like Joe Rogan and Tim Ferriss. Presented by REI Listen to this episode if: You love trying new health hacks. You’ve thought about using a sauna. You’re intrigued by time-restricted eating and/or fasting. You’re curious about the benefits of different types of exercise and which is best. You want to pave your own career path in health or science. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/57 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mike’s Wild Idea: To turn the shark attack where he lost his leg into a life mission. To also photograph sharks, help preserve marine wildlife, and to help other amputees and shark attack victims get active. When he was 18, Mike Coots was attacked by a shark while bodyboarding in Hawaii. He survived, punching the shark numerous times in the face, but it took his right leg. Today, Mike is a marine life advocate, a world-class photographer, a competitive surfer, and advocate for adaptive athletes. He is full of amazing stories, and shares many including one about how he tested, researched and designed his own prosthetic leg so he could standup surf. He also shares how he got into running, how he helps other shark attack victims and amputees get back in the water, and how he decides which projects to say yes to. Listen to this episode if: You’re a surfer or bodyboarder. You’re passionate about preserving marine wildlife. You love photography. You or someone you know is an adaptive athlete. You want to hear an awesome story. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/56 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shelby’s Wild Idea: To make a podcast that inspires others to live more wildly, and share stories and advice from the top adventurers, athletes, health experts, and more. It has been a wild year, that’s for sure. When I started this podcast, my goal was to record seven episodes and keep going. I knew the beginning would be hard, but one year and 55 episodes later, I am so thankful I stuck with it. I’ve met amazing people along the way, including some of you. On this show, I am sharing a few things I’ve learned after 54 episodes. From making commitments to adjusting your expectations to paving your own path, my guests have shared some amazing nuggets of wisdom. Thank you to everyone who has listened to the show, to the amazing guests who have shared their stories, the brands who have sponsored the show, and everyone who has written a story about us, included us on a list of awesome podcasts, and shared the show with their community. Listen to this episode if: You love adventure. You have listened to Wild Ideas Worth Living. You’re ready to make your own wild idea a reality. You want to start a podcast. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/55 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelly’s Wild Idea: To be the top half-pipe snowboarder, and inspire others to achieve their highest potential. Kelly Clark is an Olympic snowboarder and author. She has over seventy wins under her belt, including 10 X-Games medals (nine of them gold), and four trips to the Olympics (with a gold in Salt Lake City). She is also one of my favorite snowboarders of all time, with an incredible sense of style and a ton of wisdom she’s learned over her storied career. We talked about recovering from hip surgery just last year, what it takes to be an Olympic athlete, her faith, success, and more. Listen to this episode if: You snowboard. You’ve recovered from a surgery or injury. You love the Olympics. You’re a spiritual person. You believe in teaching others and supporting youth. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/54 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Goldhamer’s Wild Idea: To teach people to lead healthy lives unharmed by unhealthy foods that many put into their bodies. To also share the benefits of water-only fasting. With the new year coming up and the tendency for lots of people to make resolutions, many of which are health oriented, I wanted to do a show focused on health. One of the most popular shows I’ve done was with David Goldman, a proponent of intermittent fasting, who worked at a place called TrueNorth Health. Fasting may seem like a wild idea, but the practice has actually been around for thousands of years and is still used in many cultures and religions. This episode is specifically about water-only fasting, and eating a plant-based, sugar-free, oil-free, and salt-free diet. Dr. Alan Goldhamer, who founded TrueNorth Health, is a huge supporter of these practices. Since 1984, he’s helped thousands of people take back control of their health with these techniques. He’s also a licensed osteopathic physician, author of The Health Promoting Cookbook, and the co-author of The Pleasure Trap. To dig into this topic and to do this podcast, I went to TrueNorth Health in Santa Rosa, California, and did a five-day water-only fast, where I was supervised the whole time by an MD. I had some interesting results, which I share about at the end of the show. After I started eating again, I sat down to talk to Dr. Goldhamer about the results he’s seen from fasting, who can or should do a fast, how to maintain a plant-based diet, and what being featured in the film, What The Health, was like. He is super knowledgeable, and he doesn’t shy away from a spirited debate, which I appreciated. Disclaimer time: I am not a doctor and this podcast is solely for informational purposes! Please consult your doctor and do your own research before trying a fast or any other unusual health practices. Listen to this episode if: You’re ready to get healthy. You’re not afraid to try something unconventional. You want to try a water-fast or are interested in fasting. You’re thinking about moving to a plant-based diet. You think Western medicine is too focused on medication. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/053 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diana’s Wild Idea: To swim around islands and across oceans. To chase after any goal with no regard for what others say someone her age or ability can or cannot do. In 2013 at the age of 64, Diana Nyad became the first person to swim 110 miles from Cuba to Florida without the aid of a shark cage. It took her about 53 hours. After years of training, four failed attempts, being stung by multiple box jellyfish, dealing with dehydration, hypothermia, naysayers and more, she did it. A long-distance swimmer since she was a kid, she’d made other huge swims, including one around the island of Manhattan in 1975. But she took a break from swimming for years working as a commentator, writer, and journalist at the top level, and when she returned she set a huge goal. There’s nothing Diana sets her mind to that she can’t do and she’s not only a hoot, but she’s incredibly inspiring to be around. She’s also whip smart, an amazing storyteller, and she does an amount of burpees every week that will blow your mind (you’ll hear exactly how many in the interview). Diana and I talked about what it feels like to get stung by box jellyfish, her elixir for injury prevention, how she dealt with adversity as a child, what she sings while swimming for hours on end, and how you can go after your dreams and live more wildly no matter what. Listen to this episode if: You have a wild idea and goal and want inspiration to pursue it. You are a swimmer or love the ocean. You want advice on confronting failure. You’ve had to deal with moments of adversity. You love extreme endurance athletes and activities. You want to hear what it feels like to be stung by a box jellyfish. You want to hear how many burpees this badass does a week. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/52 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sal’s Wild Idea: To tell the stories of life through athletes, sports, and music, and share them with the world. If you have ever watched action sports on TV, there’s a good chance you’ve heard or seen Sal Masekela. With a rich, deep voice and a gift for gab, Sal’s been a beloved commentator, journalist, musician, producer, and philanthropist for over a decade. He hosted the X Games for thirteen years, VICE’s World of Sports, E!’s Daily 10, the FIFA World Cup when it was in South Africa, and he currently hosts NBC’s Red Bull Signature Series, has his own production company, and is working with National Geographic. Sal is an amazing storyteller, which you’ll get a taste of in this episode. From moving to San Diego from New York and discovering the world of surfing, paving a path for himself as a commentator in the world of action sports, and deciding to make his own music, Sal’s stories draw you in. We talk about being an outsider, his relationship with his dad (South African jazz icon, Hugh Masekela), why he decided to make his own music, and how you can pursue your passions. I have always admired Sal’s career and looked up to him since I was a kid, so I hope you enjoy this show as much as I did. Listen to this episode if: You’ve heard Sal’s voice before (or even if you haven’t) You love action or adventure sports. You love music. You enjoy good stories. You want to have an epic career. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/51 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cliff’s Wild Idea: To discover what is happening biologically when we are out in nature. And how outdoor enthusiasts are connected to their environment scientifically. Cliff Kapono is a surfer and scientist from Hawaii. After discovering his love of the ocean at a young age, he later connected it to biology and chemistry, earning a graduate degree in biotechnology from University of Hawaii and working toward a PhD in chemistry from UCSD that he will finish next year. Cliff’s work is all about using science to relate to nature: what happens in our bodies when we spend time outside, and what is biologically happening when we get that feeling of being connected to nature. His current project, The Surfer Biome Project, looks at how surfers relate to each other and to the ocean. Hearing Cliff talk about his work, his love of science, and his passion for his native Hawaiian culture is inspiring. We talk about his recent work connecting with and swabbing surfers, his favorite boards, how to be a citizen scientist, and why being an academic can in fact lead to an awesome lifestyle. Listen to this episode if: You want to save the ocean. You’re interested in science. You’re a surfer. You love Hawaii. You feel connected to the environment. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/50 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Willow’s Wild Idea: To quit her job and go on a five-hundred-mile hike in Colorado. Then, to start a podcast that shares unique stories of people in the outdoors. Willow Belden is the host of Out There, a podcast that discusses big life questions in an outdoor setting. Willow talks to ultra-marathoners, Everest climbers, hikers, cyclist, skiers, and all kinds of adventurers about their journeys, giving listeners a chance to hear about the transformative powers of nature. Before she started her podcast, Willow worked at Wyoming Public Radio. You can tell by the way she edits her show and her soothing radio voice. It was a great job, but she decided to quit to hike the Colorado Trail, a thru-hike of about 500 miles. Willow and I talked about why she quit her job to go on a thru-hike, what she learned along the way, and why chocolate was so important on the trail. We also talk about the challenges of starting a podcast, what she’s learned from losing a parent, and what she has learned from her diverse guests, including great lessons about failure. Listen to this episode if: You love hiking and the outdoors. You listen to public radio or want to start a podcast. You’ve lost a parent. You want to try thru-hiking. You have ever been afraid to fail. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/49 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Liz’s Wild Idea: To pursue a dream of sailing to remote places, and living life aboard her sailboat, Swell. To encourage people to be brave, search inside themselves, and to help protect the environment and places we play. Liz Clark is an adventurer, surfer, sailboat captain, and now an author, with her first book coming out next year with Patagonia Books. In 2005, Liz pursued her lifelong dream to live on her sailboat, and set sail from Santa Barbara to French Polynesia. She’s sailed over 20,000 miles since, and along her journey, has learned a lot about herself, life, and the world. She discovered that exploration doesn’t just happen when you travel around the world - it happens within as you challenge and push yourself. Liz is a good friend, and we had a great time talking. She is so genuine and thoughtful, and I love how open she is in talking about her voyage, her boat, the process of writing a book, and some of the challenges she’s overcome and changes she’s experienced. Listen to this episode if: You sail, surf or want to learn how. You love books or want to write one. You love traveling. You love adventure. You are curious about going deeper inside yourself. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/48 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rob’s Wild Idea: To live a sustainable, minimalist lifestyle and inspire others to do the same. To do awesome adventures and spread the message of good in the world. Rob Greenfield is an adventurer and environmental activist who is making a difference for our planet. An Eagle Scout who grew up in a small town of Wisconsin, Rob’s had and executed a ton of wild ideas. He cycled across the U.S.A. three times on a bamboo bike (without a ton of cycling experience and only drinking from natural sources while creating zero waste) to raise awareness about sustainability. He dove into more than 2,000 dumpsters across the country to raise awareness about food waste (and to show we throw away perfect food). He travelled to different countries with just the clothes on his back and zero money just to show that people are inherently good. He lived in a tiny house. And, for one of my personal favorite projects, Rob lived like the average American and wore all the trash he created for a month in New York City, to raise awareness about food waste. Rob’s written a book (and it’s endorsed by Jerry of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream), given multiple TED Talks, and is a fascinating guy who wants to make a positive impact on our planet and the lives we lead. Listen to this episode if: You are interested in living with less stuff and needing less money to be happy. You want to hear how someone lives on only $5,000 a year. You want to live a low impact life or are interested in minimalism. You want to know what he finds in dumpsters. You think people are inherently good. You love to travel. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/47 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chris’s Wild Idea: To explore the limits of human potential, and to write amazing stories about it. Chris McDougall is the author of the bestselling books, Born to Run and Natural Born Heroes. His first book spawned the barefoot running movement and altered the running shoe industry forever. It’s also being made into a movie starring Matthew McConaughey. Natural Born Heroes dives into the history of how every-day citizens and amazing athletes on the island of Crete withstood the German forces during World War II. This is the kind of thing he loves: finding amazing stories about less-known athletes achieving amazing feats, and digging in to learn about their strategies, training, diets, and more, then sharing them with readers. In 2011, I traded Chris surf lessons for barefoot running lessons. Since then, Chris has become not only a great writing mentor, but also a friend. On this episode, we talked about his life since the success of his books, what techniques he learned while researching them (including movement based exercises used by the Cretans), why he may discourage you from becoming a writer, and why donkeys (yes donkeys) make great running partners. Chris is an amazing storyteller and I think that really comes through in this podcast. Listen to this episode if: You’ve read Born to Run or Natural Born Heroes. You’re interested in the minimal running footwear revolution. You want to shift your diet and improve your performance. You’ve thought about moving to the country. You’re a runner of any distance. You want to be a writer. You want to know how the heck he trains with donkeys. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/46 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kimi’s Wild Idea: To practice sustainable hunting, spread the message about the importance of the ocean and make a living doing what she loves. If you’ve heard of Kimi Werner, you’ve probably seen the picture or video of her gracefully swimming along, holding onto the dorsal fin of a great white shark. Kimi is fearless, and she’s a force of nature. Growing up off grid in Hawaii, Kimi’s father taught her to free dive. She gave it up for years, then rediscovered it later in life and went on to become the national spearfishing champion, a chef, an award-winning artist, and sought-after speaker. Her work as an environmental advocate wasn’t always her goal, and her path has taken unexpected turns as she has built a career that combines many of her passions. Kimi is a great storyteller, and she has some amazing stories to share with us, like her famous encounter with one of the biggest predators of the ocean, the magic that took her on a trip to the Azores, and the fearlessness of standing up for herself in asking for equal pay. Her biggest lessons she wants to share though are the power of trusting your gut, and slowing down in order to speed up. Listen to this episode if: You love the ocean. You are interested in spearfishing. You believe in equal pay and equal rights. You want to learn to free dive. You’re passionate about saving the ocean. You believe in magic. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/45 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JP’s Wild Idea: To use humor to empower people to be the best versions of themselves. JP Sears is a spiritual comedian, author, emotional healing coach, and a curious student of life. You may know him from his hilarious YouTube videos that feature great underlying messages about relationships, spirituality and how self-righteous we can be as groups -- whether we are yogis, vegans, raw foodies, or even ultra-spiritual people. It took JP a while to find a way to use his humor for good, and he’s not afraid to make fun of his own lifestyle. His work is intended to empower people to be their best selves, and to live more meaningful lives. On this episode, JP shares how he uses humor to talk about serious issues, his advice for living wildly, how to make a living using your passions, and the importance of getting out of your comfort zone. Listen to this episode if: You love to laugh. You are in touch with your spiritual side (or want to be). You like watching hilarious YouTube videos and comedians. You’re a vegan or a meat eater. You want to cultivate your own humor and use it for good. You want to try some nootropics. You want to become a better human. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/44 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Karen’s Wild Idea: To share bold, brave, wild stories, both her own and by others through books and essays with the world. Also, to embrace surfing at an older age, a sport that’s taught her why it’s so great to suck at something. Karen Rinaldi is a writer, publisher, and the creator of Harper Wave, an imprint of Harper Collins that has published the work of three past guests: Jaimal Yogis, Mark Lukach and Steph Jagger. Karen has also published books by authors like Dave Asprey of the Bulletproof Coffee movement, Dr. Gundry of The Plant Paradox, and Tony Horton of P90X, to name a few. In addition to her literary life, Karen is also a surfer. She started at age 40, and recently wrote an essay in the New York Times that every surf writer’s mom sent them (including my own) titled, “It’s Great to Suck at Something.” I loved her story, and all of her essays I’ve read. I also don’t have a lot of mentors that are females, writers, publishers, and surfers, so when I find someone like Karen, I have to share her knowledge. Karen talks about her perspective on surfing, why it’s important to suck at something, the difference between a good adventure and a great story, how to get published, and the books you should be reading. Listen to this episode if: You suck at surfing (or anything, really). You like trying new things, no matter how good you think you’ll be. You’re an avid reader. You want to write a book and get published. You love the Modern Love column in the New York Times. Your family is important to you. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/43 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ari’s Wild Idea: To cross canyons and mountains hundreds of feet in the air. To highline at challenging locations, and to apply lessons of life learned in the air to life on the ground. Ari (pronounced Air-ee) DeLashmutt is a professional highliner, skier, paraglider and an enthusiastic adventurer, who also hosts the How To Adventure Podcast. He lives a dream life, eager to spend most of his time in the air or on the mountains. I met Ari at the OutFound Festival in Oregon, and I love that he thinks outside of the box. Ari has some incredible perspectives on life, fear, confidence, and failure. These are lessons he’s learned from spending so much time pushing the envelope, doing what he loves, and confronting fear in the face. He shares some of his best lessons learned from highlining, rigging ropes tethered to rocks in precarious locations, why play is so important, and so much more. Listen to this episode if: You want to challenge your notion of fear. You’ve tried slacklining. You love going on adventures. You love traveling to beautiful, natural locations. You want to try highlining. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/42 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney’s Wild Idea: To become a professional surfer, and to achieve tough goals in and out of the water. Courtney Conlogue is a professional surfer on the World Surf League, currently ranked towards the top three on the women’s tour. Known for her powerful turns, positive attitude, work ethic, and incredible fitness capacity, she has an amazing ability to set goals and achieve them. Last year, she modeled naked for the Body issue in ESPN Magazine. She also missed a world title by one spot. On this episode, we talk about what you can learn from losing, how Courtney trains and sets goals, what she does when she achieves her goals, and her loves outside of the water. Listen to this episode if: You surf. You want to achieve your goals. You are interested in training, nutrition and fitness. You love drinking coffee. You’re an artist. Your family is important to you. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/41 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chris’s Wild Idea: To interview people who have had successful side hustles, and to publish a book and podcast about it. Chris Guillebeau is the New York Times bestselling author of The $100 Startup, The Art of Non-Conformity, Born For This, and The Happiness of Pursuit. His latest book, Side Hustle, which debuts September 19th, shows how to take your side hustle from an idea to a profitable business. In addition to being an incredible writer, Chris visited all 193 countries by age 35. He is all about living the life you want, and not the life others expect you to have. He shares why he doesn’t believe you have to quit your job unless you want to, plus his favorite productivity tools. Listen to this episode if: You want to quit your job. You have or have thought about starting a side hustle. You want to travel the world. You’ve read The $100 Startup or any of Chris’s other books. You want to monetize your hobby. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/40 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caroline’s Wild Idea: To climb up huge mountains, ski down them, go on amazing adventures, and become an advocate for the environment and more. Caroline Gleich is a professional ski mountaineer, adventurer, trail runner and activist. Based in Salt Lake City, Caroline recently became the first woman and fourth person to ski all 90 lines featured in “The Chuting Gallery,” a steep skiing guidebook to the Wasatch Range. A nature lover since birth, Caroline has used her voice as an athlete and an ambassador for brands like KEEN, Clif Bar and Patagonia to speak up about social and environmental issues like climate change, clean air, and cyber harassment. She’s graced the covers of magazines like Powder and Backcountry, appeared in multiple Warren Miller Films, and I even recently wrote about her in Outside Magazine. On this episode, Caroline shares challenges and advice on being a woman in a burly man’s sport, training tips to climbing mountains and getting ready for an ultramarathon, how she handles fear and how she’s advocating for change. Listen to this episode if: You want to climb mountains. You love skiing. You’re passionate about environmental and justice issues. You like confronting your fears. You use social media to connect and be inspired by others. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/39 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Todd’s Wild Idea: To take amazing pictures of waves and the athletes who ride them. Todd Glaser is one of the most sought-after surf photographers in the world. As a staff photographer for Surfer Magazine since 2008, he’s earned more than a dozen covers. Today he takes photos on land and in the water with surfs stars like Kelly Slater, Jack Johnson, Rob Machado, and more. Todd grew up in Solana Beach, California, competed as a body boarder, went to school for photography, and then immediately took his love of shooting his friends in the water, and turned it into a thriving career. His work has appeared not only in sports publications like Surfer and Outside Magazine, but also in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, and the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. Most recently, Todd took photos for the latest Taylor Steele Movie, Proximity, and just came out with a photography book around it that he self-published, and is currently shipping from his mom’s garage. Listen to this episode if: You love surfing. You read surf and sport magazines. You’re interested in photography and want to know how to take better photos. You love being in the water. You consider yourself a shy person. You want to know how Todd can tread water for eight hours at a time. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/XX Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Zeppelin’s Wild Idea: To share different perspectives of the public land debate through his latest documentary film, and inspire others to get outside. Aside from having one of the most badass names ever, Zeppelin Zeerip is a pro snowboarder and activist, the author of Don’t Call Me a Gypsy, a producer and partner of WZRD Media, and co-founder of a grassroots snowboard competition called Occupy Pando. For his latest project, Zeppelin is traveling around the U.S. to film for his upcoming documentary about the public land debate. He is passionate about preserving this land that everyone has access to, but he also knows the importance of hearing perspectives from all sides. We also go deep and talk about some of the loss he endured in his youth, and how that has affected his drive and motivation today. Listen to this episode if: You want to be a pro snowboarder. You are passionate about the public land debate. You’ve ever suffered loss. You try to get outside every day. You want to surround yourself with inspiring people. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/37 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gale’s Wild Idea: To share stories of women from all walks of life who are passionate about the outdoors, and encourage them to explore. Gale Straub is the voice and creator of the popular podcast and community, She-Explores. The podcast focuses on women in the great outdoors, and tells the stories of entrepreneurs, athletes, and “ordinary” women who are “curious, inquisitive and beyond.” It’s well-edited and inspires people to spend more time outside, which I am a huge advocate of. Gale left behind the life of a CPA for a long stint on the road in the van with the boyfriend before starting the show. It was a big risk, she talks about, as well as sharing about living with your significant other in a confined space, and why she loves connecting with women in the outdoors. Listen to this episode if: You love the outdoors, or are feeling the call to adventure. You are a She-Explores listener and want to get to know the voice behind the podcast. You’ve thought about quitting your job to pursue your passion and want to know how to do it. You want to explore in a van or take a long road trip with your partner. You want to start a podcast or just hit the road. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/36 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chris’s Wild Idea: To make a living by writing and talking about surfing and skateboarding. To use humor and positivity to land his dream job, and remain relevant though the ages. Chris Cote is a professional action sports personality. He got his start as a competitive surfer and skateboarder, became editor of Transworld Surf Magazine, and is now a commentator on the World Surf League, the commentator and host of the Vans Park Series, the editor Encinitas Magazine and the host of his own podcast, the Monday M.A.S.S. He’s also a hilarious and positive guy who can still skateboard and surf with some of the best pros in the business. He not only shares great stories including getting branded by Blink182 and Green Day, hanging out with Andy Irons, his encounter with a sea anenome and the crazy stuff he’s seen at surf and skate competitions; but he also shares about failure, getting sober, how to stay relevant no matter how old you are, and what it really takes to create your own dream job, and how you can do that now. Listen to this episode if: You surf, skate, snowboard, or love action sports. You want to hear a hilarious storyteller. You are a Chris Cote fan. You want to create your own dream job, or work in action sports. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/35 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve’s Wild Idea: To share deeper stories about travel and adventure by creating an online and print media company, Adventure Journal. Steve Casimiro is the founder of Adventure Journal, an online magazine with a beautiful quarterly book that covers the deeper side of adventure. Steve has worked in journalism for years. He got his start in newspapers, then worked at Powder Magazine, helped start Snowboarder Magazine, was the founding editor of Bike Magazine, and then the west coast editor of National Geographic, before he jumped into the world as a media entrepreneur. Becoming an entrepreneur, and starting a media company, especially at the height of the recession wasn’t easy, but Steve had the experience and the willingness to do every single job necessary, even packing and delivering magazines, to make it happen. He shares tips about starting your own business, why failure is important, and how art and adventure go hand in hand. Listen to this episode if: You love adventure. You love old school journalism, great stories and beautiful magazines. You are a photographer. You want to start a business. You want to know what it really takes to start a thriving adventure magazine. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/34 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shanti’s Wild Idea: To improve people’s lives, health, and communities by getting families outside through Hike it Baby. Shanti Hodges is a journalist, writer, and mom who started a community called Hike it Baby. The non-profit organization’s mission is to connect families and get them outside, especially when their children are young. Hike it Baby is now responsible for bringing families and babies on over 3,000 hikes a month in over 330 cities. Shanti is an inspiring woman who had a wild idea and made it a reality. She shares insights on how Hike it Baby grew so rapidly, what it takes to start a movement, why nature is so good for babies and adults, and why Facebook called up Shanti and personally invited her to their headquarters. Listen to this episode if: You love hiking, nature and being outside. You’re a parent or love kids, and want to spend more time with family outdoors. You are a city slicker and intimidated by the outdoors. You want to start a community. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/33 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Damien’s Wild Idea: To chase his dreams of being a professional athlete while spreading positivity everywhere he goes. Damien LeRoy is a professional and world renowned kiteboarder, paraglider, stuntman, and athlete. Last year he had a terrifying crash where he fell over 150 feet from the air into a forest of mangrove trees and broke his leg, ribs, punctured his lung, and more. He could have easily died, but ten months later he is almost completely recovered and already back on his board. Damien shares his story with me and talks about what was going through his head while his lines were tangled and he began to spin out of control in the air. He also talks about his unique upbringing (dad was in James Bond movies and he was a pro skier and lived in the mountains for many years). He also shares about working on the new Baywatch movie with the Rock and Zach Efron, how his approach to kiteboarding has changed since his accident, what it is like to be a professional athlete, what he always takes on the road, and why he strives to be positive 100% of the time. Listen to this episode if: You love adventure. You want to hear a crazy story. You kiteboard, ski, paraglide, or use a GoPro camera. You want to know why Damien took off his clothes at the OutFound Series. You saw the movie Baywatch. You strive to live a life of purpose and positivity. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/32 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cyrus’s Wild Idea: To continue to learn about our planet, people, and our passions by making films about these topics and sharing them with the world. To be interested instead of just interesting. Cyrus Sutton is an incredibly thoughtful and introspective person. A director, filmmaker, surfer, adventurer, and sought-after brand ambassador, Cyrus has produced Emmy Award-winning films, including Stoked and Broke, and is the founder of Korduroy TV, a website that explores creativity and sustainability in the outdoors. His latest film, Island Earth, documents how we grow our food, and explores the challenges between using conventional agricultural practices (including the use of science and chemical solutions) versus using ancient techniques to feed our population and our planet. Cyrus has travelled all over the globe, lived in California and even spent some time living and working out of a van. He now resides in the Pacific Northwest where he is working on growing his own food and enjoying documenting others who also live off the land and are interested in permaculture and sustainable ways of living. I’ve always been interested in Cyrus’s ideas and films, and enjoyed this conversation a lot. There are some true gems about following your dreams, the unique world of social media, the power of storytelling and the reality of what it takes to make a career around your passion. Listen to this episode if: You are interested in pursuing your passion full-time. You care about organic, non-GMO food. You love adventure sports. You like watching surf films or you are a surfer. You are a curious person who loves learning. You love Hawaiian culture. You want to know the pros and cons of living, working or traveling in a van. You grow your own food or want to learn how. You want to be a filmmaker. For full show notes, including guest links and books mentioned during the episode, visit: http://wildideasworthliving.com/31 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.