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G’day and good onya! Our Discover Guides are deep dives into new destinations, where we interview experts to get the ‘drum’ on the places they live and love.
Today we’re excited to share the first of two episodes exploring South Australia, a less-trodden state rich in adventure, wildlife and natural beauty. This two-part series is produced as a road trip through a lesser-known part of Australia filled with natural wonders, wildlife and more than one hilarious Aussie character.
We’ll explore indigenous heritage in Port McDonald, and hear the tale of an ancestral giant sleeping at the bottom of a lake beneath Mt. Gambier. We’ll climb into hidden garden sinkholes, race up sand dunes, and ponder primordial hippo-sized wombats in South Australia’s world heritage site, Naracoorte Caves. Of course we’ll enjoy some of the best wine on earth in Adelaide, before meeting a baby joey and their babysitter on the wildlife haven of Kangaroo Island.
So fair dinkum, no worries mate it’s time to hit the frog and toad!
Thank you to Down Under Endeavours for partnering with us on this episode - they are the South Australia experts and helped us build this itinerary and connect with the experts featured in the episode.
You can find out more and literally book this exact trip, with these exact guides:
downunderendeavors.com
Special thanks to our guests:
Simon Meeres from Coonawarra Experiences
coonawarraexperiences.com.au
Katina Vangopoulos with Flamboyance Tours in Adelaide
flamboyancetours.com.au
Craig Wickham with Exceptional Kangaroo Island
exceptionalkangarooisland.com
CREDITS
Produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry.
Find out more at armchair-productions.com
Jason Paton: writing, recording, mixing, sound design
Aaron Millar: host, writing, executive producer
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The Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef system in the world. Covering an area of 135,000 square miles, it is bigger than the United Kingdom, Holland and Switzerland combined. Lay it out across Europe and it would reach from London to Moscow, making it is the largest living structure in the world and the only one visible from outer space.
Today, we’re going to the best place in the world to experience it: Tropical North Queensland. And we’re in good company with Dr Eric Fisher, a marine biologist who specializes in the Great Barrier Reef. This is a conversation is about one of the great wonders of the natural world, and what it’s like to see it first-hand. But it’s also about something special that Eric has introduced: Dreamtime Dives.
Most experiences on the reef tell its story from a western viewpoint. Eric has developed a new program where you can explore it from an indigenous perspective too. Guided by Aboriginal Sea Rangers, whose connection to the reef stretches back over 60,000 years, it’s an opportunity to see the reef from a new perspective, and in doing so perhaps learn things about the reef we never knew before.
FIND OUT MORE
Thanks again to Down Under Endeavours for partnering with us on this episode. They are the Tropical North Queensland experts and helped to connect us with the awesome guest you heard from today.
If the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, head over to DownUnderEndeavours.com/Armchair to find out how you can see it for yourself. They’ve got lots of great ideas, and you book with them you’ll get $500 off your next trip. It’s a great way to support the show. (and please note my American friends, ‘endeavour’ is spelt the proper British way with a U at the end )
CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUEST
Experience Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel at ReefUnlimited.com
Find out more about Eric’s research and conservation work at gbrbiology.com
If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm.
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
____________________________________________________________________________
Presented by: Aaron Millar
Audio & Sound Design: Charles Tyrie
Produced by: Armchair Productions
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Today, we are sharing an episode of Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, the chart-topping and Webby Award-winning podcast from our friends at Nature on PBS. Back for a brand new season, Going Wild features some of the coolest champions of nature – like a former butterfly technician who
saved an endangered species while incarcerated, and a marine ecologist
who worked as a featured diver in the documentary Enslaved with Samuel L Jackson. Each episode explores what led them to create change within themselves, their community, and the natural world.
In today’s episode, you hear from Nat Geo Explorer-slash-stand-up-comic Ella Al-Shamahi about her research in places where people don’t normally do science like “conflict zones.” Ella’s archeological pursuits are not only informative, but inspiring!
To listen to the rest of their new season, follow Going Wild with Dr. Rae
Wynn-Grant on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Welcome back to the Hidden Trails of Oregon! In the first episode
of our new season, host Aaron Millar heads to the eastern edge of the
state, far from the bustle of coastal cities and the craggy heights of
the cascade mountains.
We're going on location in the traditional lands of the Nez Perce to
uncover a piece of history unknown to most outsiders. In the
late 19th century, the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce tribe were driven
from their homeland. 200 warriors, protecting hundreds more women and
children, fought for five days against 520 US soldiers. Their leader,
before surrendering, promised his people that one day they would come
home. After nearly 200 years, his promise may just be starting to come
true.
This is a unique story of generational resilience, cultural preservation, and the ongoing work for recognition and ancestral lands.
RESOURCES
To plan your next Oregon adventure:traveloregon.com
Visiting the Nez Perce Homeland and the Tamkaliks Celebration powwow:wallowanezperce.org
Local and cultural history at the Josephy Library:library.josephy.org
Thank you to our guests: Bobbie Conner, Rich Wandschneider,
Jacey Sohappy, and Nancy Crenshaw.
CREDITS
This series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Find out more at armchair-productions.com
Brian Thacker: pre production
Charles Tyrie: assistant audio editing
Jason Paton: writing, recording, mixing, sound design
Aaron Millar: host, writing, executive producer
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In this episode, we’re heading to the city of Victoria on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. They call this the place where ‘land and sea meet, and cultures converge’. Victoria is a city surrounded by wild nature on all sides, from the tranquil waters of the Salish Sea to the mighty rainforests of Vancouver Island.
Our Discover Guides are deep dives into destinations we love. Think of them like a cross between a traditional radio show and an audio magazine: Fast paced, with multiple guests and different segments from traditional interviews to immersive stories.
Highlights include:
Snorkeling in underwater forests of bull kelp with the Mermaid of the Pacific.
Hearing what it’s like to see orcas and humpback whales in the wild.
Discovering what the tallest totem pole in the world, the narrowest street in North America and a statue with two left feet have in common.
Getting the low-down on our local’s ultimate 48-hour guide to the city —a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and salty sea air.
Find out more
Thanks to TourismVictoria.com for introducing us to our awesome guests, and helping to pull this episode together. Head over there to find out more about everything we talked about on the show, or check out @tourismvictoriabc for more adventure inspiration.
Today’s guests
Alan Bruce from the Pedaler Cycling Tours and Rentals, ThePedaler.ca
Nik Coutinho from Prince of Whales, PrinceOfWhales.com
Tess Van Straaten, @TessvanStraaten is the X
Amanda Swiminer from Dakini Tidal Wilds, DakiniTidalWilds.com
🌏 Ready to Explore?If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm. And hey, a follow on socials? That’s like giving us a high-five from across the globe.
📸 Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast📘 Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
🎙️ Presented by: Aaron Millar 🎚️ Audio & Sound Design: Charles Tyrie🌍 Produced by: Armchair Productions
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what’s coming up this month on Armchair Explorer. It’s part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, and a whole lot of part “wait, you did what?”
In this episode, we’re going from the dreamtime waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the quiet strength of Chief Joseph’s legacy in Oregon, from biking hidden streets in Victoria B.C. to walking with kangaroos on remote roads in South Australia. These are stories of culture, nature, and the wild places where the two intertwine.
🌍 Coming Up This Month:
Dreamtime Diving – Tropical North Queensland, Australia
Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef guided by Aboriginal Sea Rangers whose connection to this place stretches back over 60,000 years. Most experiences on the reef explain it from a western scientific viewpoint, here we explore it from an indigenous perspective.
Victoria B.C. Discover Destination Guide – Canada
Victoria, on Vancouver Island British Columbia, is a place where ‘land and sea meet, and cultures converge’. We’re going to meet the Mermaid of the Pacific, discover the tallest totem pole in North America, see whales in the wild, and cap it off with our ultimate 48-hour guide to the city —a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and salty sea air.
Hidden Trails of Oregon – Season 2: Homecoming
This season of Hidden Trails of Oregon takes us to the mountains and rivers of eastern Oregon, homeland of the Nez Perce and confederated tribes of the Umatilla. In this episode we reveal the little-known story of Chief Joseph, and how a promise made more than a century ago may finally be coming true.
🚐 South Australia Road Trip – From Adelaide to the Edge of the Outback
From baby Joeys on Kangaroo Island and swimming with dolphins on the Eyre Peninsula, to exploring ancient caves and sunken gardens of the Limestone Coast, this two-part series is produced as a road trip through a lesser-known part of Australia filled with natural wonders, wildlife and more than one hilarious Aussie character.
Alone Across Gola – A Solo Ride Through one of Africa’s most Remote Rainforests
In Alone Across Gola, adventurer Jude Kriwald cycles solo through Liberia’s barely crossed Gola Rainforest, confronting extreme physical and mental challenges along the way. This is a story about cultures converging, extreme endurance, and the courage it takes to chase your wildest travel dreams.
🌏 Ready to Explore?If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm.
📸 Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast📘 Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Today we are taking a journey to the arctic circle, in the far north of the American continent. This is a story about climbing, and surviving, one of the tallest mountains on Earth. It’s about paddling through the most remote national park in America, the Gates of the Arctic; and it’s about finding wonder and hope in places where that hope is nearly lost.
Taking us on this journey is mountaineer, writer and arctic explorer Jon Waterman. From his winter ascent of the Denali’s Cassin Ridge, the first person to do this extremely dangerous climb, to his expedition on the Noatak River, in Alaska, which sparked a lifelong love affair with Arctic, Jon’s poetic descriptions, and nail-biting storytelling, will immerse you in the beauty and danger of the far north, and what it might take to save it.
Highlights of Shadow of Denali Into the Thaw:
Feeling what it’s like to stand on the top of America’s tallest mountain in winter, and the cost it took to get there.
Exploring the ‘hallucinogenic’ beauty of Gates of the Arctic National Park, in Alaska - America’s most remote national park.
Discovering what it takes to paddle the Northwest Passage solo, a 2,200-mile journey across the roof of the American continent.
Hearing the story of Maniilaq, the innuit prophet of the 1800s, who predicted the missionaries, mining and famine that would come to his people.
Listening to Jon’s final journey Into the Thaw to document the changes of the last 40yrs, and how he found hope among the people who have lived there since time immemorial.
FIND OUT MORE
Jon’s latest book is called Into the Thaw: Discovering Wonder Amid the Arctic Climate Crisis, published by Patagonia Books. This collection of short stories, and essays, is beautifully written and photographed. It’s a book for your collection, or a coffee table, and a joy to dip into when you’re dreaming of your next adventure.
Find out more about this book, as well as his other books, including In the Shadow of Denali, at: jonathanwaterman.com, or search it up on Patagonia.com.
FOLLOW US:
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com
CONNECT WITH US:
If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show, and continue to bring this content to you.
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Jason Paton is our lead producer and our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode, we’re heading deep into the wilds of Tropical North Queensland, Australia—where the oldest rainforest in the world meets the greatest reef on the planet. We’ll be connecting with an Aboriginal guide to learn indigenous perspectives on the land; doing something called ‘River Drifting’ through the ancient forests of Daintree; seeing the Great Barrier Reef from the sky and under the waves, and lots more.Our Discover Guides are deep dives into destinations we love. Think of them like a cross between a traditional radio show and an audio magazine: fast paced, with multiple guests and different segments from traditional interviews to immersive stories. Highlights include:Trying out River Drift Snorkelling on the Mossman River, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Going on a Walkabout Tour through the Daintree Rainforest led by a local Aboriginal guide from the Kuku Yalanji community.Exploring the Great Barrier Reef from above and below with a local expert.Tasting something called a Chocolate Pudding Fruit in the Atherton Tablelands.Find out more:Thanks to Down Under Endeavours for partnering with us on this episode. They are the Tropical North Queensland experts and helped us build this itinerary and connect with all the awesome guests we’ve heard from today. Go to downunderendeavours.com/armchair to get $500 off your next trip! Connecting with our partners helps support the show. If you’re looking for some adventure inspiration, check out what they do. They have some amazing adventures to dream about for your next big trip!Today’s guests:Jeff Cameron-Smith from https://downundercruiseanddive.com.au/Jason Heffernan from https://backcountrybliss.com.au/Juan Walker from https://walkaboutadventures.com.au/Andrea Bretts from https://www.outbacktastingtours.com.au/🌏 Ready to Explore?If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm. And hey, a follow on socials? That’s like giving us a high-five from across the globe.📸 Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast📘 Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast____________________________________________________________________________🎙️ Presented by: Aaron Millar 🎚️ Audio & Sound Design: Charles Tyrie🌍 Produced by: Armchair ProductionsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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This is your monthly guide to the world’s wildest travel stories – one adventure at a time.
Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what’s coming up on Armchair Explorer. It’s part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, part “wait, you did what?”—and all of it is designed to help you find your next great escape.
This month, we’re going deep. Deep into the world’s oldest rainforest. Deep into the soul of South Australia. And deep into the heart of America’s wildest frontier with one of the great explorers of our time.
🌍 Coming Up This Month:
🌿 DISCOVER | Tropical North Queensland
This episode takes us to Tropical North Queensland—home to two of the most unique ecosystems on the planet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. We join an Aboriginal guide on a walkabout tour, drift quietly down jungle rivers and explore the reef’s vibrant underwater world. It’s a journey that blends nature, culture, and connection—with a few surprises along the way.
🦘 EXPLORE | South Australia
In this episode, we explore Kangaroo Island, where wildlife roams free and the wine flows easy. We'll explore the wild beauty of the Limestone Coast, go behind the scenes in Adelaide, and discover why South Australia might just be the country’s best-kept secret. Think rugged cliffs, artisan vineyards, and a vibe that feels like the edge of the world—but somehow right at home.
❄️ ADVENTURE | Jon Waterman – Into the Thaw
Based on his epic books Shadow of Denali and Into the Thaw, we take a deep dive into the journeys of Jon Waterman—one of the most intrepid explorers of North America. From near-death climbs on Denali to Arctic expeditions across melting ice, Jon’s stories are raw, real, and radically human. This one’s for the wild-hearted.
🌏 Ready to Explore?
If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm. And hey, a follow on socials? That’s like giving us a high-five from across the globe.
📸 Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
📘 Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
🎙️ Presented by: Aaron Millar & Jason Paton
🎚️ Audio & Sound Design: Charles Tyrie
🎶 Theme Music: Sweet Chap
🌍 Produced by: Armchair Productions
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
"I've been guiding or working around whales now for almost over just about over a decade, and I still am in awe at all of the experiences that we have. It's just a wonder of a magnitude that people don't really get to experience anywhere else in urban life" – Nik Coutinho, Prince of Whales
In this Bucket List episode, produced in our immersive documentary style, whale watching guide Nik Coutinho shares some of his favorite experiences with these ocean giants, from the awe-inspiring hunting behaviours of Orcas to what it feels like to look a Humpback in the eye.
Nik’s taking us to the city of Victoria, Vancouver Island, B.C., on Canada’s west coast, one of the most incredible marine environments in the world. From humpback whales to orcas, seals, and sea lions, the waters here are teeming with life. But what makes this place truly special is the chance to witness a variety of whales year round, up close, and with sightings almost guaranteed.
Join us as we go eye-to-eye with giants in the deep waters of the Salish Sea.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
Connect with Giants
Feel what it’s like to look a Humpback whale in the eye. Nik shares his deeply emotional stories of connecting with these magnificent creatures.
Hunting Behavior of Killer Whales
Watch Killer Whales hunting beside your boat. Nik takes us through the dramatic and fascinating hunting techniques of these apex predators, and shares some of his favorite sightings over the years.
The Humpback Comeback
Learn about one of the most spectacular marine environments in the world. Humpback whales are now staying in Victoria’s waters year-round, and the return of these majestic creatures is nothing short of miraculous.
Immersive Soundscapes
Experience the breathtaking soundscapes of the ocean, from the thunderous blow of a whale’s exhale to the deafening slap of their tail during feeding time. It’s a world full of natural symphonies, brought to life in our immersive documentary style.
Whale Watching in Victoria
Discover what makes this one of the best whale-watching spots on the planet. From seeing humpback whales breach to catching a glimpse of orcas in their natural habitat, we give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your next bucket list wildlife experience.
HOW YOU CAN DO THIS TRIP
Visit TourismVictoria.com for all the information you need to book your next bucket list trip from whale watching and seaweed foraging to bike rides and some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat.
Head over to PrinceOfWhales.com to book your adventure and follow them on Instagram @princeofwhaleswhalewatching for more amazing sightings.
CONNECT WITH NICK
To dive deeper into Nik’s stories and the world of whales, check out the Prince of Whales Podcast, available wherever you get your shows.
CONNECT WITH US
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Website: armchair-explorer.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps others discover Armchair Explorer and allows us to keep bringing you incredible stories.
CREDITS
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar is the writer and presenter, with audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Our theme music is by Sweet Chap.
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In today’s episode, we’re joined by Rob Pope, the first person in the world to complete the legendary run made famous by one of Hollywood’s most beloved characters – Forrest Gump. Yes, you heard that right. Rob took on the challenge of following Forrest’s route mile by mile, crossing the country not once, but FIVE times. That’s like running from the North Pole to the South Pole, and then some.
But this story isn’t just about physical endurance. Rob’s journey is breaking down emotional walls, and embracing the call of adventure. You’ll hear how it all began with a promise to his mom, how he embraced the ups and downs of the journey, and the life lessons learned along the way.
Shoutouts:
Check out Rob’s podcast How to Be Superhuman with Red Bull, where he dives deep into the mental and physical resilience needed to achieve the impossible. Find it wherever you get your podcasts.
Rob was running for Peace Direct and The World Wildlife Fund – two incredible charities that are doing important work in the world. Check out the links in the show notes to learn more.
Follow Rob on Instagram at @run.robleer.run for more updates and inspiration from his epic journey.
Support the Podcast:
Thank you to everyone who helped us hit 200 reviews on Spotify! Your support means the world. If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to leave a review or reach out on Instagram at @armchairexplorerpodcast.
FOLLOW US:
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com
CONNECT WITH US:
If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content.
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Follow best-selling travel author Brian Thacker on a unique, mad-cap adventure to three of the remotest countries on Earth. Inspired by the intrepid spirit of explorers of old, Brian decided to tear up the guidebook, switch off the phone and turn up to a country knowing absolutely nothing about it in advance.
He picked three countries at random: the east African country of Togo, the South Pacific islands of Wallis & Futuna and the Central Asian mountains of Kyrgyzstan. He boarded the plane with absolutely no clue of the language, culture, where to stay or what to see. He was simply rolling the dice and letting the universe decide what kind of trip he would have.
Like his heroes of the golden age of exploration, when much of the world was still undiscovered and no one knew what wonders awaited beyond the horizon, Brian was taking a step into the unknown.
But, unlike those legends of adventure, Brian’s just an ordinary bloke. He wouldn’t be risking his life searching for lost tribes in the Amazon or crossing deadly deserts, he was just traveling, like all of us do, in search of good times, new experiences and the pure joy of exploring this amazing planet.
Brian’s story inspires all of us that we needn’t be extreme adventurers to be real explorers, we just need to tear up the guidebook, turn off your phone and step into the unknown.
CONNECT WITH BRIAN
Brian’s book of this story if called ‘Where’s Wallis: Travels Without a Guidebook’, you can find out more about that and all Brian’s other books at www.brianthacker.tv. Instagram: @bthacker
Brian writes and presents a bunch of our other podcasts, if you enjoyed this one check out The Travel South Dakota Stories podcast. Scroll back and look for the episodes about Palm Springs too!
CONNECT WITH US
If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.
Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma!
Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what’s coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they’re most excited to share.A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us.MARCH EPISODESADVENTURE: No Guidebook, No Google, No Clue: Togo, Wallis and Kyrgyzstan with Best-Selling Travel Author Brian ThackerWe follow best-selling travel author Brian Thacker on a unique, mad-cap adventure to three of the remotest countries on Earth: Togo, East Africa; Wallis & Futuna, in the South Pacific; and the Central Asian mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Inspired by the intrepid spirit of explorers of old, Brian decided to tear up the guidebook, throw away the phone and turn up to a country knowing absolutely nothing about it in advance. IMMERSION: Homecoming: Chief Joseph’s Promise and the Flight of the Nez PerceWe go on location to the traditional lands of the Nez Perce, in eastern Oregon, to uncover a piece of history unknown to most outsiders. In the late 19th century, the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce tribe were driven from their homeland. 200 warriors, protecting hundreds more women and children, fought for five days against 520 US soldiers. Their leader, before surrendering, promised his people that one day they would come home. After nearly 200 years, his promise may just be starting to come true.BUCKET LIST: Whale Watching in Victoria, B.C.We go to the southern tip of Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, Canada for a bucket list adventure spotting humpback and orca whales. Victoria is one of the best places in North America for whale watching and Nik Coutino, a local guide and expert, shares his best experiences, all set to immersive music and sound design.ADVENTURE: Becoming Forrest with Ultra Runner Rob Pope15,600 miles, 422 days, and 2 boxes of chocolates, Rob Pope tells the story of his epic journey retracing the exact run that Forrest Gump did in the movie. It’s a really fun story, Rob is a hilarious guy, but it’s also incredibly inspiring. Before she passed away Rob’s mum told him to do one thing in his life that truly makes a difference, and boy did he do it. Rob is also the host of the Red Bull podcast How to be Superhuman – we shared the first episode of their 3rd series last month. If you missed it, check it out. It’s awesome. ***If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma!Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastInstagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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“I came face to face with grizzly bears. I had to befriend drug lords. I saw two people shot dead. I witnessed a guy trying to kill his wife with five gunshots. I crossed the tallest mountains in the world. I had to swim rivers with horses. I was lost in deserts and nothing, absolutely nothing, brought me more pain and heartache and stress than man made lines drawn across a map.” – Filipe Masetti
A Long Rider is someone who has ridden a horse more than 1,000 continuous miles on a single equestrian journey. Only a handful of people in history have had the skills, and determination, to make it. Filipe Masseti is one of them.
This is the story of one of the greatest long rides in modern times: two years, ten countries, three amazing horses and 10,000 miles of adventure from Canada all the way to Brazil.
Get ready for Filipe Masetti’s long ride home …
THE LONG RIDER
If you enjoy this episode, you will love Filipe’s documentary about the trip. It’s beautifully shot, and packed full of adventure, insight, and inspiration.
The Long Rider - Check it out on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Rider-Sean-Cisterna/dp/B0B643V4R8
Filipe has also three books about this journey, and the two that followed. It’s called the Journey America Trilogy. The story of this book, the first in the series, is called Long Ride Home.
FOLLOW FILIPE
You Tube: @felipemasetti
Instagram: @felipemasetti
FOLLOW US:
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com
CONNECT WITH US:
If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content.
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
As soon as they walked into the barracks at Fort Sisseton, they were handed muskets - heavy Springfield 63s from the Civil war era - given a uniform and told to march.
Presenter Brian Thacker and producer Jason Paton thought they were just covering the annual Sisseton historical festival, in South Dakota, as spectators.
Turns out they were getting enlisted in the army. The Union Army that is.
Join us as we march back in time today to 1864 where cavalry, artillery and infantry reenactors come together each year to bring this piece of history to life with period accurate food and music, military demonstrations, dances and much more. Including a few ghosts in a haunted old hospital where they had to spend the night.
Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode:
- Ali Tonsfeldt from Fort Sisseton
- Captain Bruce Bekkering and Amy from the Cavalry troop
- Captain Kevin Ganz and the rest of the 13th Sioux Falls regiment
If you feel like joining the Union Army at Fort Sisseton next year, you can. Find out more at www.travelsouthdakota.com
If you enjoyed this episode, check out the full series on the Travel South Dakota Stories podcast
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Brian Thacker wrote and presented the episode, Jason Paton did the field recording and audio production. www.armchair-productions.com
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Abdullah Zeinab’s epic Rhino Run adventure crossing South Africa and Namibia redefines what’s possible in endurance cycling. Unsupported and unforgiving, this grueling 1,700-mile ultra-cycling race put his mental strength, grit and resilience to the ultimate test through breathtaking but brutal landscapes – where a tiny detail, like a tiny screw, made a world of difference.
This special feed drop episode is taken from Red Bull’s podcast How To Be Superhuman. If you like this episode, you’re going to love the full series.
How To Be Superhuman is about pushing the limits of human potential, from conquering terrifying climbs and kayaking down jaw-dropping waterfalls to swimming the world’s longest rivers, running through uncharted mountain kingdoms, and embarking on solo expeditions to the most remote corners of the globe. In each episode, host Rob Pope and the athlete dive into the physical and mental resilience behind these awe-inspiring feats, offering immersive storytelling and insights into overcoming the world’s greatest challenges.
Check it out, where you listen to podcasts!
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
redbull.com
Follow Abdullah on Instagram
Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content
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“Those are my heroes, those guys paved the way for me to be able to travel through this country, free, and they're almost superhuman to me.”
- Erick Cedeño, Bicycle Nomad
In 2013, Erick Cedeño, aka. Bicycle Nomad, came across an old photograph that changed his life. Taken in 1897, it showed 20 black soldiers riding bicycles across the American West. As he dug deeper, he learned that these were the Buffalo Soldiers, an all-black infantry regiment formed after the civil war. The photo was taken during a grueling 1,900-mile journey, in which they traveled by bike from Montana to Missouri in order to test the efficacy of the bicycle as a form of military transport. To this day, it is one of the most difficult bike trips ever undertaken.
As a black man, growing up in America, Erick had never seen people that looked like him riding bikes. It changed his life, and he knew he had to bring their story back to life. But he did it not by telling it, but by living it - pedaling every mile that they did, sleeping where they slept, eating where they ate, taking the hard roads where modern paved highways do not go. And in doing so he invites us to live it too.
“Curiosity drives me. It fuels my insatiable desire to know what’s beyond the next bend of the road, to discover what’s there beyond the edges of the map. If it is my muscles that propel me forward physically, it is curiosity that propels me mentally.”
FIND ERICK CEDEÑO
Follow all Erick’s adventures at iambicyclenomad.com, Instagram: @bicycle_nomad, and Facebook:@bicyclenomad
SOCIAL
If you enjoy this show, please take a minute to leave a review, it makes a huge difference and enables us to keep brining these stories to you. Remember also to subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about our network partner, APT Podcast Studios, on their website.
CREDITS
This episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison wrote and produced this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap.
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At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what’s coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they’re most excited to share.
A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us.
February episodes:
ADVENTURE: Long Rider Filipe Masetti takes us on a two-and-a-half-year journey riding his horse from Canada, where he emigrated, to his home in Brazil. Making friends with the cartel, hiding out from gun shots, becoming a local hero, and finding the love of his life. @filipemasetti
RED BULL RHINO RUN: We’ve partnered with Red Bull’s How to be a Superhuman podcast to bring you the first episode of their new series. In it, we follow extreme endurance rider Abdullah Zeinab on the Rhino Run, a 1,700-mile bike packing race across South Africa and Namibia, one of the hardest rides in the world. Check out the full series, it’s awesome: How to be a Superhuman.
IMMERSION: Producer Jason Paton and presenter Brian Thacker get unwittingly drafted into the Union Army for A civil war re-enactment in front of thousands of people. They survive hours of marching drills, musket firing lessons and a spooky stay in the old hospital. Part of our Travel South Dakota Stories series.
JOURNEY: To celebrate Black History Month, we’re bringing back one of our all-time favorite episodes. Eric Cedeño, aka the Bicycle Nomad, rides 1,900-miles from Montana to Missouri to recreate a journey taken by the 1897 all-black infantry unit known as the ‘Buffalo Soldiers’. @bicycle_nomad
***
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Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.
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In this episode, we dive into the soul of Ontario’s wild, tranquil landscapes alongside award-winning travel writer and photographer Alex Robinson.
From serene canoe journeys gliding through Algonquin Provincial Park to exhilarating white-water escapades on the Madawaska River, this journey is an invitation to immerse yourself in the pristine waterways of the Canadian wilderness, and discover the heritage of its first form of transport.
Episode Highlights:
Paddle through Algonquin Provincial Park where stunning birch and maple forests offer a perfect sanctuary from urban life.
Discover the Sacred Tradition of the Canoe, from its deep-rooted significance to Indigenous peoples to its pivotal role in shaping Canada’s cultural identity.
Feel the Thrill of White-Water Canoeing, navigating the fierce currents and swirling rapids of the Madawaska River.
Connect to Nature as Alex’s evocative storytelling immerses you in the sounds and spirit of the Canadian wilderness.
How You Can Do This Trip
Alex’s canoeing adventure in Ontario is an experience you can have too. For more details on how to plan your own journey, drop Aaron a line on instagram or via the website. You can also check out Travel.DestinationCanada.com for more ideas.
Connect with Alex
Follow Alex on Instagram to check out his award-winning photography, including shots of this trip: @alexrobinsonphotography
JRNY Magazine
This story was inspired by an article Alex wrote for JRNY Magazine. Find more of their content at jrnymag.com
Connect with Us
Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast
Website: armchair-explorer.com
Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. It helps others discover Armchair Explorer and lets us continue to share more of these incredible stories with you!
Credits:
Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar is the writer and presenter, with audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Our theme music is by Sweet Chap.
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St. Patrick might be the most famous of the Irish saints...but he's far from the most interesting.
In 2023, St. Brigid’s Day was decreed a National Holiday in Ireland to honor Brigid. Over the millennia, this legendary woman has evolved into a figure encompassing myth, holy legend, pagan icon, and now modern feminist symbol.
But who was Brigid, really? To answer that question, travel writer Nicola Brady set off around Ireland to see how she’s celebrated, and she found that there’s not one simple answer. Because, as with everything in Ireland, you never know quite what’s around the corner.
Listen for a story that takes you into forests and through time, from the windswept hills of Downpatrick to ancient cathedrals of Kildare. And you just might encounter some fire dancers, divine poetry, and even a miniature Batman on a bicycle...
Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode:
Judith Boyle from Boyle’s Pub
Phil O’Shea from Solas Bhríde
Tom McCutcheon from the Kildare Heritage Center
Musicians Lisa Lambe and Moya Brennan
Brigid Watson from Sustainable Journeys Ireland
And poets Laura Murphy and Grainne Tobin.
Also, much of the music you’ve heard in this episode was recorded live in St. Brigid’s Cathedral. Thank you to Hot Press for helping with the recording and thanks to all the performers from that evening as well. And a big thanks to Paula O’Brien of Brigid 1500 for helping us onsite. The show was hosted by Nicola Brady, and you can find her work at NicolaBrady.com.
And if you want to learn more about booking your own trip to experience the sights and attractions featured in this episode, go to Ireland.com or follow along on social media @Tourism Ireland.
SOCIAL
Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com.
CREDITS
This show was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Jason Paton recorded, mixed, and sound designed the show. Charles Tyrie helped with the editing. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar produced it. Nicola Brady hosted and wrote it. Thanks so much.
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