Episode 64: Adventure, Spirituality, and the Search for Something Bigger with Reed Dunn

In today's episode—the first in a brand-new series exploring the deeper meaning behind our outdoor experiences—I sit down with my longtime friend, pastor, everyday explorer, and deep thinker, Reed Dunn, for one of the most meaningful conversations I've had on this podcast. This first installment leans less on adrenaline and more on the why—why we're drawn to the outdoors, why hardship shapes us, and why so many of us pursue experiences that push us into awe, wonder, and transcendence. Reed and I dig into the spiritual side of adventure—what it means to connect with something beyond ourselves, whether you call that God or a higher power. We unpack the way wilderness confronts our limits, how beauty can shake us awake, and why disciplines of "no" might be more important today than ever. And of course, we talk about Reed's years of backpacking, his favorite place in the world, and the moments that have stayed with him long after the trip ended. ⏱️ Timeline Summary Here are the top moments from the episode: [00:16:00] – Kicking off the conversation: why I wanted Reed on the show and how his story fits into "the meaning side" of adventure. [00:26:00] – Reed's early backpacking years—Colorado, Arkansas, the Buffalo River Trail, and how those experiences shaped him. [00:35:00] – The memory of his favorite place on earth: a glacial lake, seven waterfalls, and the power of remembering without a camera. [00:36:00] – A deep dive into spirituality: what it means to connect with transcendence, how nature becomes a pathway, and why anyone—regardless of belief—can access it. [00:46:00] – Religion vs. spirituality: Reed breaks down the difference between learning about God and meeting God—and why both matter. [01:13:00] – Exploring hardship, asceticism, and the spiritual importance of limitation. Why "telling yourself no" opens doors to meaning. [01:22:00] – The connection between ancient spiritual practices, desert monks, and modern adventurers who push themselves to the edge in search of something more. 🔗 Links & Resources Reed's book, When You Don't Have Words: Praying the Psalms — available wherever you buy books Reed Dunn on social media:  Instagram LinkedIn Locations discussed: Colorado trail systems, Buffalo River Trail (AR), Wind River Range (WY), Appalachian Trail (ME/NH section) Find us on our new On Adventure Podcast YouTube channel where you can see the full interviews.  Also give us a like and a review while you're at it! 🙌 Closing Remark If this conversation stirred something in you, inspired you, or made you think differently about why we chase adventure in the first place, I'd love for you to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. It helps more everyday explorers find these stories—and it keeps great conversations like this one coming. Thanks for listening, and keep living your adventure on purpose.