Episode 255 - Row, Sleep, Repeat: 100 Days Across The Indian Ocean

This week on Major’s Mess Hall, we sit down with Lara Vafiadis and Glyn Roberts to dive into one of the wildest challenges we’ve ever featured on the show. The pair are part of the “Brain Waves” crew, gearing up to take on an extreme ocean-rowing expedition across the Indian Ocean—spending roughly 100 days at sea in a 29-foot boat, rowing in relentless two-hour shifts, day and night. Lara brings incredible experience to the team, having previously completed a grueling solo Atlantic row, while Glyn is stepping into his first ocean row after a background in the military and endurance sports. Together, they open up about the physical and mental preparation needed for a journey of this magnitude, from sleep deprivation and survival at sea to the emotional resilience required to keep pushing forward. Beyond the challenge itself, their mission has real purpose—supporting research into microplastics, mental health, and immersive technology, helping to push scientific understanding while raising awareness for important causes. It’s an inspiring, eye-opening conversation about adventure, endurance, and what it truly takes to attempt something extraordinary. Be sure to check out monkeyfistadventures.com for all the info and links to donate!