My Camino - the podcast

Australian Lisa Sweeney is a two-time Camino pilgrim who never really felt like she belonged. Of Irish decent, Lisa and her husband decided to walk the National Famine Way in Ireland and it changed her life forever, she'd found where she belongs. The National Famine Way is a 165km pilgrimage walking in the footsteps of 1490 men, women and children forced off their land and sent abroad during the Potato Famine in the 1840s. This is a wonderful discussion about history, its impact on us and the world. You can find the National Famine Way here.

Stacey Wittig is an American pilgrim, writer, and spiritual traveller - her new book A Spiritual Guide to the Camino Francés: Sacred Places Christian Pilgrims Don't Want to Miss, is not just another Camino guide, it's an opportunity to learn more about what we walk past on the Camino. Every year, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims walk the Camino Francés, and along the way, they pass ancient churches, chapels, monasteries, and sacred sites—often without realizing the spiritual depth these places have held for Christian pilgrims for centuries.Stacey's book is a place-based companion for pilgrims who want to walk with greater awareness, intention, and reverence. There are reflections to do each day, journalling prompts, prayers, passages from the Bible and directions to the places on the Camino you simply must see. You can find Stacey's new book here

Michael Rucker was a highly acclaimed music industry executive - and he knew his life was broken. He decided to start to walk, and walking led him to the Camino and a slow repair that has brought him untold joy. This is a wonderful conversation about finding hope on the Camino, learning to trust your heart and allowing God to bring you home. Michael's new book Under a Canopy of Grapes - Letting Go and Coming Home on the Camino de Santiago is out now. You can find it here

Canadian pilgrim Rocco Rossi has walked 23 Caminos. Today, he launched his first novel, a book set on the Camino called "Finding Grace". I loved it and you will too. In this episode of My Camino - the Podcast, Rocco and I talk about how and why we're drawn to the Camino, the process of writing, and we discuss Grace - both the concept and the character. You can find Rocco's book here

This week we launched our musical Camino for 2027. We're walking from Leon to Santiago de Compostela and it will be a trip of a lifetime. All the details are at my website. To launch I spoke with the American pilgrim Theresa Okamoto and my younger sister Amanda Mullins about their experiences. It's all about stepping out of your comfort zone to discover what's possible. Join us in 2027 for the trip of a lifetime!

Genevieve Quigley is Editor of Sunday Life, the magazine in the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper. Gen wrote a few weeks back about walking the Camino with some friends. I knew I had to interview her. We were joined by her friend Tara Trehy, who was the group's organiser and spreadsheet pilgrim. This interview is a great reminder not to judge, not to have pre-conceived ideas of what's right and wrong, but rather to find your own pilgrimage - on the Camino and in life. You can find Gen's article here

Ever wondered about the divine feminine on the Camino? In this episode, Dan interviews Alder Allensworth about her transformative journey on the Camino de Santiago, her personal battles with loved ones and Alzheimer's and Alder's own battle with a rare cancer, and her inspiring writing retreat. Discover stories of faith, resilience, female friendship, and the magic of slow travel. You can find Alder here

Colin Campbell wowed the audience at the American Pilgrims on the Camino Gathering in Texas last month. I knew I had to interview him. As it turned out, he kinda interviewed ME!! This is a great conversation about inspiration, finding answers on the Camino and learning to trust your instincts will guide you along YOUR path. You can find Colin and his music here

For tickets for Dan's upcoming tour of Canada here I've been dying to interview Annie O'Neill ever since hearing about Phil's Camino. This is a cracking yarn. Annie and I talk about how and why the Camino calls us; her amazing story with Phil; and her plans for the future. I loved this interview and I know you will too. dm

The Australian Friends of the Camino will be hosting its third bi-annual conference this July. I'll be there, and you should be there too! In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Sarah Pye who's coordinating this year's event. It will be a wonderful celebration of everything Camino - and I can't wait. All the details here

Father Kevin Wittmayer's new book is 40 Days and Nights on the Camino de Santiago - A Pilgrimage for finding Clarity, Renewal and Healing. A forty-day spiritual journey of healing, faith, and transformation grounded in one pilgrim's journey on the Camino de Santiago. This is a wonderful discussion about the power of prayer, of love and of stepping out of our comfort zone to grow - not just ourselves, but our family and community. You can find Fr Kevin's book here

Pauline Wald is a French pilgrim who was living what she thought was her dream life - great job, great life. And then Pauline started to question if that was her REAL life. Soon after, pilgrimage and the Camino beckoned. I really enjoyed Pauline's film 'Paths of Life' and her journey is a message for us all - find what is essential and do everything you can to meet at that place. You can find Pauline, her film and her book here

Amanda Michelle Torralba is a pilgrim from the United States, who dreamed of walking the famed pilgrimage for over 15 years. When she finally got her chance, she grabbed it with gusto. This is a wonderful story of the impact the Camino can have on us all...it brings us together, brings us hope, light and love. I really enjoyed this chat, and I know you will too.

Mylinh Lee is a return guest, who has just returned from walking the Camino Portuguese and Camino Finisterre. Mylinh talks about the call of the Camino, how it warms her dedication and guides her heart to what's important in life. A child Vietnam refugee, Mylinh is working on telling the story of her life, her Camino, and her motivation for spreading the joy of walking. You can find Mylinh's YouTube account here And here is a link to Mylinh's Instagram

This week we talk all things as a brief history of the Camino and re-visit one of the most inspiring stories of the last nine years. Czarina Deldio's father travelled to Spain with her to travel in taxis and buses each day while Czarina walked with her mother to celebrate overcoming cancer, but Czarina's father had other plans...... And he walked very, very slowly

A re-visit of my chat with Malaysian pilgrim Xin Yan Gee. Xin Yan Gee is a Malaysian national who had just finished a double degree. She's living in Sydney - far from her family back in Malaysia. Her mother decided the family ought to walk the Camino....and it's a great lesson about having the courage to step outside our comfort zones; to celebrate family; and to celebrate life. The world is small, yet full of so much wonder.

Canadian pilgrim Alyson Davies is a visual artist and self-proclaimed Camino addict. We talk about her transformative experiences on the Camino de Santiago and explore the historical significance of the Camino, Alison's personal journey of healing and self-discovery, and how her artistic practice has been shaped by her walks. Alison shares insights about her new Field of Stars oracle deck inspired by her pilgrimages, the creative process behind it, and the lessons learned from embracing the unexpected during her travels. The conversation highlights the deep connections between art, spirituality, and the human experience. You can find Alyson here

Hope DeLuca is a 23-year-old American pilgrim who recently completed the Portuguese Camino. Hope shares what drew her to a winter Camino, seeking solitude, reflection, and meaning, and describes how the experience resonated with her spiritually despite not being religious. Hope also tells us about her pilgrimage as a songwriter. We talk about lessons of perseverance and self-discovery, ending with a touching story of kindness from a local that captures the Camino’s spirit of connection and hope. You can find Hope here

British pilgrim Matthew Williams shares his profound experiences of walking two Caminos. Matthew recounts his first journey in 2015 which was marked by personal loss and the challenges of winter walking. He reflects on how the Camino serves as a metaphor for life's uncertainties emphasising that there is no 'right way' to walk it. The discussion delves into the emotional weight of Matthew‘s experiences, including the tragic and sudden death of his mother and how those events shaped his perspective on resilience and healing. Matthew's return to the Camino in 2023 symbolises a journey of self-discovery and acceptance as he navigates the complexities of grief and personal growth through the lens of music and storytelling. Matthew's band is Savage Underdogs

Kevin Riley walked his first Camino in 2019, carrying a golf club as his walking stick. He's now known as 'the hiking golfer'. In this episode of My Camino - the Podcast, Kevin talks about his journey of discovery through meeting people and sharing a common purpose of pilgrimage. AND how he now is embarking on a whole new Camino.....music.

Canada-based British writer Daniel D Six has written a new book 'Gracias Jacobus - Miracles, madness and a donkey with better timing than God'. It tells the story of Malcolm Hargreaves who has spent his life in the shadow of extreme trauma. The story is based on Daniel's life, his journey on the Camino de Santiago and the profound impact it had on his life. In this episode, Daniel shares his experiences of healing from childhood trauma, the importance of community and connection, and the spiritual lessons learned along the way. You can find the book here I loved it!!!

French pilgrim Marie Sonnois rode her beloved horse Zambomba, from her home to Santiago de Compostela and then onto Porto and back, covering over 2,200 miles in 521 days. Marie discusses her motivations for embarking on this adventure, the challenges she faced along the way, and the profound personal growth she experienced. We talk about the bond between Marie and Zambomba, the lessons learned from their journey, and the spiritual insights gained through the pilgrimage. The photograph was taken by Adele J. Huber.

My mother died last week. It was an amazing life. She once wrote about picking daisies.

With a family tragedy on the immediate horizon, Dan reflects on what the Camino means to him - and how it bring solace to those in need. We have a brand new Patreon offering for subscribers and sponsors. For all the details go to patreon.com/danmullins

Jo Penn is an award-winning, NY Times & USA Today Bestselling Author. Jo writes thrillers, dark fantasy, horror and crime titles, and is also a Podcaster. Her book, 'Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways', is about preparing, learning and getting the most out of your pilgrimage. I so loved this chat, and you'll love Jo's book, too. Find Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways here. And Jo's writing website, so you can publish your OWN Camino book is here

Nick Sassan is a young pilgrim from the United States with one of the most unusual Camino stories you’ll hear. While most walkers arrive armed with sturdy hiking boots and meticulously tested shoes, Nick set out on the ancient pilgrimage in… Birkenstock sandals. And yes — he walked all 800 kilometres of the Camino Francés in them. By the time he reached Santiago, he'd worn right through the soles.

Ken Huang RUNS the Camino!! In this episode of My Camino - the Podcast, Ken reflects on her life of long-distance running, her experiences during her adventures, including the Camino and the contrast between the anticipation of enlightenment and the reality of a blank mind. Ken discusses the instinctual navigation that takes over during these experiences and the subsequent reflections that occur afterward, emphasizing the importance of the journey and the encounters along the Way. You can find Ken's videos here

Arlene Laskey is a Canadian author. Her debut novel is 'Quest for the Enlightened Pilgrim: Walking the Camino'. The book is inspired by Arlene's real-life experiences on the Camino de Santiago and her study of the Master Key System, a fascinating look at how our thoughts empower our future. There's also a Camino journal you can take with you on your Camino to keep a record of your wonderful pilgrimage. You can find Arlene's books here

I've just returned from the Camino Portuguese and loved every moment. I have a brief summary of our trip PLUS a very inspiring story of an Australian man who is walking the Camino to raise awareness of depression and suicide across the world. Here's a link to Geoff's campaign

Jean-Claude Benazet wrote the Camino hymn 'Ultreia'. I was delighted to get the chance to interview Jean-Claude, to talk about the history of the song, what it means to him and what it means for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims who walk the Camino each year. This episode is a snapshot of kindness, of love and light. Much love to you, pilgrim. Dan

Elle Halliwell is a Sydney-based journalist, author and motivational speaker. Her incredible story was the subject of her book A Mother's Choice where she details her journey of cancer and motherhood. Now Elle's a pilgrim having just returned from walking part of the Via Francigena to Rome. This is a wonderful story of belief, hope and discovery.

I've just finished walking the Camino Portuguese. Please enjoy this rewind episode of my chat with Rebekah Scott. I first spoke to Rebekah three years ago. Her new book 'A Furnace Full of God' is simply magic. It's not your usual Camino book. This is a spiritual diary; a journal of a pilgrimage of the heart and soul. You can find A Furnace Full of God on Amazon....and Rebekah's non-profit organisation taking care of the Camino is peaceableprojects.org

In this episode of My Camino, host Dan Mullins engages with a group of friends from Alabama who share their experiences walking the Camino de Santiago. They discuss the significance of friendship, the balance between companionship and solitude, and the spiritual aspects of the pilgrimage. The conversation highlights the challenges faced along the way, including an accident that tested their resilience and unity. Each participant reflects on how the journey deepened their connections with one another and enriched their personal growth. The episode concludes with a discussion on the emotional impact of arriving in Santiago de Compostela and the lasting bonds formed during the pilgrimage.

In this conversation, Dan Mullins interviews Marion Roach Smith about the art of memoir writing, particularly in the context of personal journeys like the Camino de Santiago. They discuss the importance of writing what you know, the distinction between memoir and autobiography, and the significance of transcendence in storytelling. Marion emphasizes the need for daily writing habits, the power of intent in writing, and the importance of characterization and narrative voice. The discussion also touches on the value of interviewing techniques, the role of recipes in storytelling, and the transformative power of writing as a means of self-discovery.

In this episode of My Camino, host Dan Mullins interviews Sean Dietrich, known as Sean of the South, who shares his transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago. Sean discusses the deep connections he made with fellow pilgrims, the spiritual awakening he experienced, and the lessons he learned about kindness, love, and self-discovery. He reflects on his personal history, including the impact of his father's death, and how it shaped his journey. The conversation also highlights the power of music and storytelling in connecting people and fostering community. Sean's heartfelt anecdotes and insights provide a profound look at the human experience and the beauty of the Camino.

In this heartfelt conversation, Veronica Soebarto shares her transformative journey along the Camino Primitivo, exploring themes of surrender, companionship, and spiritual awakening. From her initial motivations to the profound realisations she encountered along the way, Veronica reflects on the importance of letting go of control and embracing the unknown. The discussion highlights the beauty of connection with fellow pilgrims, the power of meditation, and the spiritual moments that shaped her experience. Ultimately, Veronica's journey is a testament to the enduring impact of pilgrimage on personal growth and self-discovery.

This week I'm joined by my wonderful friend Rocco Rossi. Rocco has walked 21 Caminos - most of them off the beaten path. In this episode, we discuss the lesser-walked Caminos - the Invierno, Aragones, Madrid, Baztan, Mozarabe, Lebaniego and Vasco. Rocco's amazing insight will help you prepare your Camino. Make sure you stay until the end for his incredible Camino story AND a special treat right at the end of the podcast.

I'm joined by George Greenia, a scholar of pilgrimage studies at the College of William and Mary in the United States. We chat about the profound themes of hope and community found in the Camino de Santiago. We explore the motivations behind pilgrimage, the evolution of the Camino experience, and the transformative power of shared grief and healing. Pilgrims walking with rebellious hope. George shares personal stories and insights from his decades of experience, and later, we talk advice for future pilgrims and reflections on the enduring nature of hope in the context of pilgrimage.

Imagine you get to your sixties and realise you're not who you thought you were. How would you react? Would you want to know the details and key players? That's exactly what happened to the American pilgrim Bill Wrobleski. This is an incredible journey of discovery and the Camino played a major role. You can find Bill's blog here

American teenage pilgrim Gavin Smith finished high school this year and decided to walk the Camino to honour his grandpa. This is a wonderful story of dedication to family and taking risks to learn who you are and who you need to be. This is a wonderful episode, like Gavin, full of hope and dreams.

In this episode of My Camino – the Podcast, I reflect on the Camino as a quest — a long and sometimes difficult search for something meaningful. I talk about the beauty of walking, the challenges pilgrims face, and the quiet moments of discovery along the way. I'm joined in the studio by British journalist Caitlin Powell, author of Notes from Down Under and Footnotes from the Way. Writing can help us make sense of the journey, whether we're on the path, preparing to walk, or already home.

Episode two of my two-part interview with Jack Hitt who wrote Off the Road: A Modern-Day Walk Down the Pilgrim’s Route into Spain  the book that was the inspiration for the movie, The Way. In this episode, I ask Jack what the rest of the world should make of what's happening in the United States right now. His honest insight provides a shapshot of an America of old, and an America of promise. He also tells a most beautiful Camino story.

Happy St James Day!! A very special BONUS episode to celebrate the feast day of the saint who inspires us all as pilgrims. Jack Hitt wrote the book 'Off the Road: A Modern-Day Walk Down the Pilgrim's Route into Spain'. The book was inspiration for the movie The Way - and the rest, they say, is history. This a chat about learning, yearning and being in the right place at the right time for YOU. The rest of the world will take its time to find you. And it does. This is the first of two episode featuring my chat with Jack.....the second half will be published Tuesday.

Leanne Robertson wrote to me to tell me about her family Camino. Initially wanting to walk alone, Leanne soon started to understand the true gift of walking with her daughter, and later her husband and son. Leanne's deep Christian faith guided her on this path - a path of discovery - and now it's part of her life back home, even though her life didn't pan out the way it might have. It's still a beautiful life.

This week Dan is joined by two special guests: Cam Wust, a teacher from Central Australia, and Steve Parry, a pilgrim from Canada, who met on the Camino and have remained great friends ever since. Their shared journey led to a creative collaboration—Cam wrote a moving song called Field of Stars, and Steve produced a stunning video to accompany it. In this heartfelt episode, Dan explores how the Camino brings people together across vast distances and life experiences. Cam reflects on the connection between walking the Camino and the Aboriginal concept of “Walkabout,” while Steve shares the joy of forming deep friendships later in life. The conversation moves from music to pilgrimage, from the vast Australian Outback to the quiet energy of Spain’s sacred paths. You’ll hear stories of challenge, connection, and self-discovery—and, of course, Cam’s beautiful song Field of Stars. Whether you're a seasoned pilgrim or dreaming of your first Camino, this episode captures the magic of walking, talking, and forming unexpected bonds along the way.

Women are so often anything but themselves, daughters, sisters, wives, girlfriends, mothers. Well what if you took the time to get to know YOU and empowered yourself to undertake a pilgrimage. Renée Hartleib's new book is called 'Solo Camino - an Empowering Guide for Women'. It's about providing you with the information and transformation you need to walk the Camino so you can come to learn how valuable you are. You can find Renée's book here

Nichole Lariscy is an academic at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, who presented at the Sacred Journeys conference in Canberra a paper titled “Celtic Pilgrimage from St. John's Eve to Queen Maeve's Procession: A Spiritual Passage from Santiago to Sligo.” In this week's episode we talk about the spiritual parallels between Ireland and Spain, between Queen Maeve and Santiago, between the Camino de Santiago and ancient Celtic pilgrimage routes. It’s a conversation about sacred landscapes, feminine wisdom, and the enduring call to walk — not just to a destination, but toward transformation.

John K Moore is Professor of Spanish; Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, at University of Alabama at Birmingham. He's also a pilgrim. I met John at the Sacred Journeys conference in Canberra this month, and he presented his paper "The Pilgrimage Paradox: Finding Peace through Suffering". I knew I had to interview him. This is a wonderful exploration of pilgrimage from someone who doesn't just study pilgrimage, they live and breath it....and all the moments of discovery. You'll love this chat....

Brian Gibson's life is full of blessings, but he wanted to walk the Camino to shed a few pounds because he was tipping the scales at 380lbs. What Brian found was an opportunity to deeply consider the joy in his life, while acknowledging he has experienced loss, and it's the wonder of joy and the challenge of loss that makes life such a blessing. Enjoy this chat ~ it will warm your heart.

Leonard Vance's new book is called 'An Atheist on Pilgrimage : Tales of Humanity from the Camino de Santiago'. He walked the Camino after seeing the movie The Way - and soon learned there was more to the famous pilgrimage than simply walking. Leonard's transformation provides and insight into what the Camino holds for us fortunate enough to be called to walk its winding path. You can find Leonard's book here