Paths

In a world where bigger, faster, and more extreme often get the most attention, this short conversation offers a different perspective.Alex Bescoby reflects on why meaningful journeys are not defined by scale or records, but by whether they move you. Whether it’s crossing continents or simply paying closer attention to something in your own life, the value lies in the experience itself. And in sharing it. Because the stories that resonate most are often not the biggest ones, but the ones that are felt most deeply.Follow AlexInstagram: @alex_bescoby @thelastoverland @grammarproductionsWebsite: alexbescoby.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

What does it really mean to see and experience the world?I sit down with filmmaker and historian Alex Bescoby to explore the story behind The Last Overland — a 13,000-mile or 20,000km journey retracing a 1950s expedition from Singapore to London in the original Land Rover Series 1. What began as an ambitious road trip quickly becomes something deeper. A reflection on timing, purpose, and the pull of adventure that exists at different moments in life.Alex shares how history shapes the way we experience places, why travel without context can feel empty, and what he learned from spending a decade in Myanmar. Together, we explore bigger questions about freedom, curiosity, and why the most meaningful journeys are not defined by distance, but by how they change the way we see the world.Follow AlexInstagram: @alex_bescoby @thelastoverland @grammarproductionsWebsite: alexbescoby.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this short segment, author Alison Cochrun shares the impulsive decision to walk the Camino de Santiago during a period of depression and creative burnout. She describes the physical reality of the Portuguese coastal route, from the unexpected pain of a 22-mile first day to the simple, ritualistic beauty of just putting one foot in front of the other.It is an honest look at why a standard vacation may not be enough to fix a creative slump. Alison explains how the physical effort of the trail helped her regain mental strength and why having time completely to herself was the most transformative part of the journey.Follow AlisonInstagram: @alisoncochrun Website: alisoncochrun.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on Instagram: @paths_podListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Alison Cochrun spent over a decade as a high school English teacher before a shift led her to become a full-time author. In this episode, we talk about the reality of that transition, from the adrenaline of writing her first book draft in just six days to the grueling, transformative experience of walking 200 miles on the Camino de Santiago.We dive into the messy parts of the creative process, including how she uses fiction to process her own life and how a period of severe depression and writer's block led her to the Portuguese coast. It is a conversation about burnout, the necessity of time alone, and why the hardest parts of a journey are often what make it worth doing.Follow AlisonInstagram: @alisoncochrun Website: alisoncochrun.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on Instagram: @paths_podListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this short episode, Adam Pawlikiewicz Mesa reflects on his relationship with ultra running and why he sees endurance sports as a double-edged sword. What began as a way to explore his limits and better understand himself also forced him to confront expectations, self-judgment, and the fine line between growth and harm.Rather than focusing on performance, this conversation looks at endurance as a practice of listening, awareness, and self-acceptance. It connects closely with themes explored in a previous episode with Ria Xi, where running showed up as a tool for agency and growth rather than achievement.Follow Adam⁠Instagram @adamonthego⁠ ⁠adampawlikiewicz.com⁠If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at ⁠pathspodcast.com⁠ to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram:⁠ @paths_pod⁠LinkedIn:⁠ Paths Podcast⁠Listen and subscribe on:⁠Spotify⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

Adam Pawlikiewicz Mesa is a filmmaker, photographer, endurance athlete, and bikepacker whose work grows out of long days on the road and a deep curiosity about people, place, and movement. Before starting a career in consulting at a big firm, Adam completed his first bikepacking journey across the U.S., an experience that quietly reshaped how he thought about effort, vulnerability, and direction. He went on to work in consulting for two years, but that early journey never really left him.In this conversation, we talk about Adam’s early influences, the years between that first bikepacking trip and the work people know today, and the decision to leave a secure career to start over creatively. We explore bikepacking historic routes in Peru and Brazil, endurance sports as a form of self-exploration, partnership on the road, and the responsibility that comes with telling stories about people and places that are often misunderstood or overlooked. This is a conversation about curiosity, uncertainty, and learning how to build a life that feels honest over the long haul.Follow AdamInstagram @adamonthegoadampawlikiewicz.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

What does it actually take to prepare for a 20,000 kilometer run across continents?In this short episode, Ria Xi breaks down how she’s preparing to run from Russia to Portugal, averaging roughly 50 kilometers a day for over a year. She talks through how she approaches training, recovery, logistics, and mental preparation, and why breaking an overwhelming goal into small, repeatable steps makes it feel possible. She also shares why running felt like the most natural way to cross Asia and Europe, and how she’s thinking about support, community, and sustainability on the road. A grounded, practical look at preparing for a truly extreme human-powered journey.Listen to the full conversation here! Follow Ria and support her next adventure: Instagram: @whereisriaxWebsite: 20000km.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Ria Xi on Agency, Pilgrimage, and the Long Road From the Camino to a 20,000km Continental RunRia Xi has spent the last two years pulling her life apart and rebuilding it entirely on her own terms. She left a tech career in California, stepped away from the version of success she once thought she was supposed to want, and slowly discovered something she never expected: running as a path toward agency, direction, and self-trust. In this episode, she talks openly about moving to Portugal, finding community after years of drifting, why she’s drawn to extreme challenges, and what it feels like to be in the quiet space between a major accomplishment and the biggest adventure of her life.She recently ran 780 kilometres of the Camino de Santiago and is now preparing for an almost unimaginable project: running 20,000 kilometres from Russia to Portugal. But this isn’t a conversation about distance — it’s about agency, identity, loneliness, self-worth, and building a life that feels like it belongs to you. Ria shares the inner battles she’s faced and why running became her way of stepping back into her own power. It’s a thoughtful, honest journey through what it means to choose your own life.Follow Ria and support her next adventure: Instagram: @whereisriaxWebsite: 20000km.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Why do people sign up for group adventures with complete strangers? In this short segment, Sophie talks about the unexpected community that grows on Sidetracked trips — how shared effort, simplicity, and the Arctic cold can bring people closer than they expect. She explains why these connections form so quickly, what people are really searching for, and why returning to the outdoors often feels like returning to ourselves.It’s a reflection on belonging, challenge, and the surprising ways people reconnect when the noise of everyday life falls away.Check out Sophie’s stuff:Instagram @soph_nolan_ and @sidetracked_adventureWebsite sidetrackedadventures.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Sophie Nolan built Sidetracked Adventures from a simple desire to share the wild places she loved. In this conversation, she reflects on how she shaped a life around the outdoors, curiosity, and community. We talk about her early pull toward nature, the years she spent searching for a different path, and how guiding people into remote landscapes has changed her understanding of connection, comfort, and ambition.Sophie also shares what it’s really like to run an adventure company in a fast-paced world, how she learned to trust her own voice, and why people keep returning to wilderness experiences even as modern life becomes more digital and convenient. It’s a grounded, honest look at building a life that matches your values.Check out Sophie’s stuff:Instagram @soph_nolan_ and @sidetracked_adventureWebsite sidetrackedadventures.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend, subscribing, and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this short segment, Jonathan reflects on the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, which he and his family survived when he was just fourteen. He talks about how the experience reshaped his outlook on life, influenced the risks he was willing to take, and even guided the creative decisions he makes today as a filmmaker and photographer. It’s a brief but moving conversation about clarity, perspective, and the way certain moments stay with us long after they pass.Check out Jonathan’s stuffInstagram: @jonisstromsolkattstudios.comConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Jonathan Strömberg (or Jonis Strom) grew up on the Swedish coast, where surfing is cold, rare, and hard to access, yet it shaped his entire life. In this episode, he shares how an unexpected surf community helped him discover filmmaking and photography, and how surviving the 2004 tsunami in Thailand reframed his sense of time, purpose, and risk.We talk about his creative journey from music school in London to bluffing his way into a filmmaking career, traveling the world with his girlfriend Sara, and creating his award-winning short documentary Buoyancy. Jonathan reflects on creativity in 2025, navigating a crowded digital world, and trusting himself to figure things out along the way.Check out Jonathan’s stuffInstagram: @jonisstromsolkattstudios.comConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe to the podcast on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this short segment, Elspeth Beard talks about how the hardest moments on her motorcycle journey around the world shaped her character. Breaking down in the desert, falling off the bike, getting sick, fixing everything alone built a kind of “unshakable confidence.” The same strength later helped Elspeth take on new challenges, like buying and restoring the 130-foot water tower she now lives in.This is a reminder that growth doesn’t always happen in the big moments, but when we quietly prove to ourselves that we can handle whatever comes next.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and check out the full episode on:SpotifyApple PodcastsConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastFollow Elspeth @elspethbeard and check out elspethbeard.com to find her book.

Elspeth Beard was the first British woman to ride a motorcycle around the world — but this conversation isn’t about setting records. It’s an exploration of what happens when you strip life down to the essentials, face the unknown, and learn just how capable you really are.We talk about what drove her to leave everything behind in the early 1980s, the solitude and strength she found on the road, and how that same resilience shaped her later life as an architect — including the restoration of a 130-foot Victorian water tower she calls home. Forty years on, Elspeth reflects on freedom, technology, and what adventure really means once the noise fades.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing on:SpotifyApple PodcastsConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastFollow Elspeth @elspethbeard and check out elspethbeard.com to find her book.

“Being on the motorcycle again felt like being that kid on a bike — just exploring with no real purpose.”In this 8-minute segment, Eddie reflects on how his expectations of a round-the-world motorcycle trip compared to the reality: the unpredictability, the setbacks, and the surprising freedom of not having a plan. He also talks about how the road helped him reconnect with a childlike sense of curiosity and wonder, when each day felt endless and full of discovery.Follow Eddie @eddiertw and check out @meatbagmc and meatbagmc.com to follow his next endeavour. Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

When Eddie left London three years ago on his motorcycle, he didn’t have a clear destination — just the need to move. What began as an escape from burnout and heartbreak turned into an ongoing journey across continents, from the forests of Europe to the deserts of Mongolia and the vast outback of Australia.In this conversation, Eddie reflects on what drove him to leave, what he’s learned from years alone on the road, and how travel became a way to reconnect with his childhood sense of wonder. We also talk about solitude, rhythm, and his search for community through his new project, MeatBag MC.Follow Eddie @eddiertw and check out @meatbagmc and meatbagmc.com to follow his next endeavour. Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Every long journey has a moment when everything shifts. When the reason you set out starts to change.In this special episode, four travelers share the moments that reshaped them while they were far from home, tired, unsure, but completely alive.Nick Butter talks about a conversation in the Sahara that pushed him to run a marathon in every country on Earth.Thor Pedersen spent nearly ten years traveling to every nation without flying, finding strength and loneliness in equal measure.Ann da Silva Johansson left her job and life in Sweden to cycle across continents and discovered that courage doesn’t come before you go, it comes once you’ve left.And Zoe and Olivier from WeLeaf reflect on how constant motion, discomfort, and love became their greatest teachers on the road.This is about the quiet yet powerful moments that change how we move through the world.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Alan Weisman has spent decades reporting from the edges of human presence — from Chernobyl and the Amazon to cities and coastlines under threat. His bestselling book The World Without Us imagined how Earth might recover if people suddenly vanished. His new book, Hope Dies Last, turns the lens back on humanity, profiling bold thinkers and doers who are building solutions to our most urgent crises.In this episode, I explore Weisman's path as a journalist and adventurer of ideas, what he’s learned from witnessing environmental tipping points, and how imagination and hope can change the way we see our role on the planet.Listen and follow the pod on:SpotifyApple PodcastsInstagram

Danish explorer Thor Pedersen became the first person to visit every country in the world in a single, unbroken journey, without ever boarding a plane. What was meant to take four years stretched into almost ten. In our conversation, Thor reflects on exploration in the modern world, the cost of chasing an impossible dream, and the lessons he brought home about people, resilience, and connection.Follow ThorInstagram: @onceuponasagaWebsite: thorpedersen.dkListen, follow, and subscribe to the podcast on:SpotifyApple PodcastsInstagram

This week, I’m revisiting one of my favorite conversations from 2020 with Dr. Brian Pennie—a neuroscientist, resilience specialist, and former heroin addict who turned his life around after 15 years of addiction.In this episode, Brian shares how a defining moment in 2013 changed everything, leading him from rock bottom to a career as a lecturer, speaker, and author of Bonus Time. He talks about resilience, self-awareness, and the daily tools that helped him rebuild his life—and how you can apply them too.Follow Brian and check out his books and other resources at brianpennie.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

What happens when two people decide not to wait for the “right time” to live differently? Zoë Agasi and Olivier van Herck spent four years traveling over 40,000 km entirely by human power—cycling, skiing, canoeing, roller-skiing, and even sailing across the Atlantic. But their story isn’t just about adventure.In this episode, Zoë and Olivier reflect on what their journey taught them about love, discomfort, community, and the art of doing things the hard (but rewarding) way. A conversation about movement, mindset, and belonging. Instagram: @weleaf.nlAll their linksIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and signing up for my newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Nicolas Freudiger is the Co-Founder and CEO of ID Genève, a Swiss watch company built on circular principles, sustainable materials, and a rebellious spirit. In this episode, Nicolas shares how he left the safety of corporate life to co-found a brand that is radically rethinking what luxury means today—and what it should mean in the future.This is a conversation about taking risks, building with purpose, challenging heritage, and pushing innovation where it’s least expected. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a maker, or someone curious about what it means to build a business with conviction, this one’s for you.Explore ID Genève’s circular watches: idwatch.ch Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear itFollow @idgenevewatches and Nicolas Freudiger for more

Nick Butter is a British endurance athlete, adventurer, and author, renowned for being the first person to run a marathon in every country in the world. Over 674 days, he completed 196 marathons across all UN-recognised nations, a feat documented in his bestselling book, Running the World. Inspired by a friend battling prostate cancer, Butter's journey was not only a personal challenge but also a mission to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer UK. His experiences during this global expedition led him to establish The 196 Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports various causes worldwide through a unique democratic donation model.Beyond his world-record achievement, Butter has undertaken other significant endurance challenges, including running 100 marathons in 100 days across Italy and circumnavigating Britain on foot, covering over 5,250 miles. He also founded Run Weekends, offering trail running retreats worldwide.Connect with NickWebsite: nickbutter.comRunning Retreats: runweekends.comFoundation: the196foundation.comInstagram: @nickbutterrunListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple PodcastsConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast

Eveline Haugaard (@therailvoyage) left behind a traditional engineering career to follow a very different track — literally. Now a full-time travel creator, she shares her love of slow, scenic rail journeys across Europe. In this episode, we talk about what it means to move intentionally, how to find beauty in the journey itself, and why choosing a slower path might just lead to something better.We also dive into the art of seeing, how Eveline plans her trips, and the challenges of turning a creative passion into a full-time job. If you’ve ever felt the pull to slow down or live life a little differently, this one’s for you.Follow Eveline @therailvoyage and check out her website railvoyage.comConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

Tim Voors is an artist, author, and speaker who has walked across countries and continents—from the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide Trails in the US, to Japan’s 88 Temples Pilgrimage and New Zealand’s Te Araroa. In this episode, Tim shares how time alone in nature has changed his view of work, family, and attention.We talk about the discomfort and joy of doing one thing every day—walking—and how that rhythm has shaped how he now lives, works, and parents. A grounded conversation on solitude, creativity, and creating space for what matters most.Follow Tim:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timvoors/Website: https://timvoors.nl/schoolofdreamsGet Tim's books here: https://gestalten.com/pages/search-results-page?q=tim%20voorsConnect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this episode, I sit down with Patrick—also known as Patch—who’s spent the past seven years living out of a van and building a life far from convention. From a $1,500 minivan built with PVC pipes and milk crates to custom van builds for others, Patrick shares the highs, the lows, and the unexpected lessons from the road. He opens up about freedom, loneliness, and the deep personal growth that comes with solitude. Whether you’re dreaming of van life or simply seeking a slower, freer existence, Patrick’s story is one you won’t forget.Follow Pat on Instagram!If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and signing up for our newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen and subscribe on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this episode, we speak with British adventurer and long-distance cyclist Pete Gostelow, whose solo bicycle journeys have taken him across more than 90 countries and over 160,000 kilometers. From Japan to the UK, and England to South Africa, Pete's travels are not only about covering distance but about embracing the world slowly, one pedal stroke at a time.Pete shares stories from his major expeditions—including The Long Ride Home and The Big Africa Cycle—as well as the unexpected moments that shaped his adventures. We talk about the joys and solitude of solo travel, navigating border crossings, encountering kindness in unexpected places, and how travel has evolved in the age of smartphones and social media.Whether you're a cyclist, traveler, or someone dreaming of taking the long road home, Pete’s reflections offer insight into what it means to step away from routine and discover the world on your own terms.Follow Pete here!🎧 Listen and subscribe on:Spotify: Listen on SpotifyApple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts📩 Stay updated! Subscribe to our newsletter at pathspodcast.com for updates on new episodes.🔗 Follow Paths for more inspiration:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast

In this episode of Paths, Ann Da Silva Johansson shares her incredible journey of cycling from Sweden to New Zealand—a trip that not only took her across continents but also reshaped her entire outlook on life. She opens up about what led her to embark on this adventure, the challenges she faced (including a serious accident in Tajikistan), and how the experience transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and personal growth.Ann also discusses the process of writing her book, the importance of embracing uncertainty, and how traveling alone deepened her appreciation for human connection. Her story is a testament to the power of following intuition, stepping out of comfort zones, and redefining what truly matters in life.📩 Stay updated! Subscribe to our newsletter at pathspodcast.com for updates on new episodes.🔗 Connect with Ann:Instagram: @anndasilvajohansson | @mairawaLinkedIn: Ann da Silva Johansson📖 Get her book: Om Vägen – Tvärs Över Jorden På Cykel🔗 Follow Paths:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast#PathsPodcast #Bikepacking #Adventure #Travel #Exploration #Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Swedish design duo Josephine and Christoffer Du Rietz, who left Sweden to pursue their passion for architecture and home renovation in Mallorca. From their very first project to designing homes that blend modern functionality with timeless charm, they share what it takes to transform spaces—and lives—through design.Josephine and Christoffer open up about the challenges and rewards of working as a couple, their philosophy on home renovations, and their dream of creating a boutique hotel. They also reflect on how Mallorca’s rich culture and natural beauty continue to inspire their work, shaping both their aesthetic and their way of life.If you're passionate about design, architecture, home transformation, or the dream of starting fresh somewhere new, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now:Spotify: Listen on SpotifyApple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts📩 Stay updated! Subscribe to our newsletter at pathspodcast.com for updates on new episodes.Connect with Josephine and Christoffer:Website: Du Rietz DesignInstagram: @durietzdesignFollow Paths for more inspiration:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast

Charlie Walker has spent the past 15 years exploring the world's most remote locations. From cycling across continents to trekking through deserts, his experiences are nothing short of inspiring! Join as we discuss his incredible books and dive into the challenges and joys of funding expeditions, the impact of technology on travel, and the value of solitude in personal growth.About CharlieCharlie Walker is an explorer, writer, and public speaker from the UK. He specialises in long-distance, human-powered expeditions to develop an intimate understanding of the world’s most remote communities. His work has been featured on the BBC World Service, BBC Radio 4, The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph, and Geographical magazine. He has also written two books: Through Sand & Snow and On Roads That Echo.Connect with CharlieWebsiteInstagramLinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and signing up for our newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths PodcastListen on:SpotifyApple Podcasts

In this episode, we are joined by Ben Wylson, the creator of the documentary Free Wheels East, which chronicles an incredible adventure around the world. With no prior experience or training, Ben and his cousin Jamie embarked on a journey by bicycle to travel across every continent—without taking a single flight. Over the course of three years, they faced numerous challenges, including landslides, deserts, mountains, container ships, and much more.Ben shares the inspiring stories behind this monumental adventure, the impact it has had on his life, and the valuable lessons he learned about family, resilience, and the world as a whole. We also discuss the process of making the documentary, the significance of authentic travel experiences over tourism, and the yearning for a simpler life amidst the complexities of modern society.Watch Free Wheels EastConnect with Ben:LinkedInWebsiteIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and signing up for our newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Connect on socials:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast

Welcome to Paths | Podcast TrailerThe world moves fast, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed trying to keep up. But what if there was another way? Paths is a bi-weekly podcast about stepping away from the conventional, following your passions, and living with more intention.In this short trailer, I share the inspiration behind Paths and what you can expect from the conversations ahead—stories of people carving their own way, embracing creativity, travel, and slow living to build a life that feels right for them.If that sounds like something you’d like to explore, make sure to subscribe and stay connected! New episodes drop every other Thursday.Sign up for the newsletter at pathspodcast.com to get updates on new episodes.Follow along for more inspiration:Instagram: @paths_podLinkedIn: Paths Podcast

In this episode, I am joined by author, speaker, mountain climber, college professor, and women’s rights advocate, Sara Safari. In 2015, she received The Global Citizen award from the United Nations Association and is currently on track to become the first Iranian woman in history to climb the Seven Summits, the highest peak in each continent. Growing up in Iran after the Islamic Revolution, Sara enjoyed little personal freedom and few rights under the law, living an existence marked by oppression and limitations. In response to her childhood experiences, Sara was motivated to empower marginalized women everywhere—and what better way to show young girls that they can do anything than to stand on top of the world? Literally. She recounts her experiences of overcoming these great challenges and adversities in her books Follow my Footsteps, Above the Mountain Shadow, and Making a Difference. We talk about Sara’s climbing experiences, setting big goals, overcoming challenges, and how a near-death experience can change your perspective on life and what is important. I also ask Sara what it means to her to have come from such adversity to become an inspiration for young girls and women all over the world. It was a privilege having her on my show, so please enjoy this conversation with the admirable Sara Safari. Links Sara Safari www.climbyoureverest.org www.sarasafari.com Instagram @sara.safari.everest Facebook /empoweringallgirls Millennialism Apple Podcasts ｜Spotify ｜ Google Podcasts｜ Download

The tourism industry has been massively affected by the spread of coronavirus, as many countries have introduced travel restrictions in an attempt to contain its spread. The United Nations World Tourism Organization estimated that global international tourist arrivals might decrease by 20–30% in 2020, leading to a potential loss of US$30–50 billion. In many of the world's cities, planned travel went down by 80–90%. Since none of us can physically travel anywhere right now, I wanted to talk to someone who could take me on a virtual adventure around the world. In this episode, I am joined by my good friend Caroline Sandström, a 22-year-old modern-day traveler and adventurer from Sweden. Looking at her Instagram pictures and hearing her stories about the vibrant Holi festival in India, island hopping in Fiji, scooter rides through the Vietnamese wilderness, late-night dance parties in the Philippines, and emotional sightseeing’s in Laos made me feel both jealous and incredibly alive. We talk about how she funded all her trips over the last few years, some of the people she met along the way, falling in love on the road, travelling with friends versus traveling solo, and what makes her feel most alive. If you are longing to travel, feel stuck at home, or just want a nice break from reality, just push your headphones in, turn the volume up, and enjoy this conversation with Caroline Sandström. Links Caroline Sandström Instagram @carolinesandstrom

If there is one thing to know about what millennials want in the workplace, it is that they crave a sense of purpose. So much that, according to one study, millennials prefer a company that gives them the chance to drive meaningful progress over one that offers a higher paycheck. However, a lot of people are afraid to dream big and admit what they want out of their career, only to find themselves completely stuck years later with a sense that they wasted years of their lives. So how do you figure out what you want? And what does it mean to be purpose-driven? In this episode, I am joined by Emily Eliza Moyer, an Intuitive Career Strategist focused on helping professionals build meaningful careers they absolutely love. She has worked with clients from start-ups, non-profits, and Fortune 500 companies. As a trusted guide for her clients, she helps them make the changes they need to bring fulfillment to their lives. In addition to purpose work, she is an expert in building purpose-driven high performing teams, remote work, and developing great leaders. She has been featured in NBC News, Forbes, The Muse, Power to Fly, and other major career-focused media outlets for her expertise.

Have you ever stopped to think about how much control social media has over your life? Measuring the self against others is normal, and in some ways, it can be helpful. The inspiration you feel about someone else's achievements can rev up the motivation to improve your own life. The recognition that your abilities are a notch above someone else's can deliver a boost to your self-esteem. But comparisons can be harmful when they leave you feeling chronically inferior or depressed. Social media is like a canvas. You can choose to portray your life however you want to. So, what will people naturally do with their social media accounts? They will put up only the best pictures of themselves and always make it look like they are having THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES. I think it is obvious to most people that social media is not an accurate representation of life, but it is important to have open conversations about it. In this episode, I am joined by influencer, YouTuber, and blogger, Anna Reid, to discuss how we can develop a healthier relationship with social media and our current media landscape. We also talk about social media and its relation to mental health issues, anxiety, and false or unrealistic expectation on what a good life looks like. Over the last few years, Anna has amassed over 178.000 subscribers on her YouTube channel, Anna’s Analysis, where she uploads video essays and analyses on social media culture and many other interesting topics. Her most viewed video, “how social media is ruining your life… and you don’t even know it,” has over 2.5 million views and 176.000 likes. Check out her van life conversion series if you want some realistic travel inspiration. Links Anna Reid YouTube: Anna’s Analysis www.annasanalysis.com Instagram @annas_analysis Video: how social media is ruining your life.. and you don't even know it Video: 4 Ways Influencers Manipulate You

Do you feel confused about the dating game? You are not alone. Even though it seems like everyone is on some kind of dating app, teenagers and young adults are feeling lonelier than any previous generation and are having way less sex. There are many reasons behind this, but it just seems like many of us are dating for all the wrong reasons and can’t make up our minds about what we want. Dating apps and social media present us with an abundance of possible partners. How many of your matches on Tinder do you actually go on dates with? Do you ever think, “maybe I can find someone better if I just keep swiping?” It seems like the challenge in modern times, for many people, is not dishonesty, but decision-making. Call me old fashioned or naive, but for me, nothing will ever beat meeting someone in real life without knowing anything about them only to unravel the mystery. I have never had to go on a Tinder date to know it is not for me, but I know that not everyone shares my opinion. I have made a few episodes about relationships before, but not one quite like this. I was lucky enough to get Sean Kernan, a top writer on Medium in Humor, Life, Business, Self-Improvement, Love, and Relationships to join me for a discussion on the state of online dating, common dating mistakes, toxic couple behaviors, and the ultimate first date question. He also shares some advice on what makes a good dating profile and how to recover from both breakups as well as bad dates. Sean’s articles on love and relationships have been featured in Inc, HuffPost, and Apple News just to name a few. Over the last couple of years, he has amassed over 260k followers on Quora and at the time of writing 374 million content views. Sean is a witty, honest, relatable, and personal writer sharing his own trials and tribulations, life lessons, and advice for our enjoyment, inspiration, and learning. Links Sean Kernan 7 Surefire Ways to Die Single Dating Profiles are a Highlight Reel of Bad Marketing The Ultimate First Date Question — And How to Answer It Quora @sean-kernan Medium @seanjkernan Instagram @sean_kernan Twitter @seanjkernan

Do you ever wish you were someone else, perhaps someone not afraid to do all the things you dream of doing? “Somebody once told me the definition of hell: On my last day on this earth, the person who I became will meet the person I could have become, and those two people are total strangers. “But somebody also once told me the definition of heaven: On my last day on this earth, the person who I became will meet the person I could have become, and those two people are identical twins.” — Ed Mylett I have heard so many stories of older people full of regret for not giving their dreams a real shot. This is something I fear myself. In this episode of Millennialism, Jordan Gross and I talk about realizing one’s full potential, living a life with no regrets, forging your own path, society’s definition of success vs our own, and much more. Jordan’s wise yet simple approach to many of the big, existential questions is truly inspiring, and hearing his thoughtful anecdotes made me think about what is actually important in life. Jordan Gross is a 2x startup founder, writer, leadership coach, speaker, and corporate refugee turned trailblazer for positive change, optimism, and the belief that our daily actions can help us all overcome stress and anxiety. He has worked with corporate executives and employees at Google, Amazon, and various startup companies on behavioral leadership change. He has spoken on hundreds of podcasts, in libraries, at conferences, and in high schools around the US. He is also a top contributing writer on LinkedIn and Medium in the areas of Leadership, Self-Improvement, Inspiration, and Personal Development. His latest book, The Journey to Cloud Nine, (which you can now buy), has been hailed "as meaningful as The Alchemist; as brilliantly told as The Life of Pi, and as inspirational as Eat, Pray, Love.” Links Jordan Gross www.journeytocloudnine.com The Journey to Cloud Nine The Journey to Cloud Nine Podcast TED Talk LinkedIn Medium

In China and Italy, the air is now strikingly clean. Venice’s Grand Canal, normally fouled by boat traffic, is running clear. In Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta, the fog of pollution has lifted. Even global carbon emissions have fallen. To be clear, the coronavirus pandemic is a tragedy, but this global crisis is also an inflection point for that other global crisis, the slower one with even higher stakes: climate change. It may seem odd, insensitive, or even irrelevant to some people to talk about climate change right now, but as the United Nations’ secretary-general recently noted, the threat from coronavirus is temporary whereas the threat from heatwaves, floods, and extreme storms resulting in the loss of human life will remain with us for years. Today I am joined by Environmental Communication student and sustainability advocate, Clara Wessel, to discuss eco-anxiety, a term defined by the American Psychological Association as “a chronic fear of environmental doom.” Worry about climate change is affecting people all around the world, but there are solutions that can help improve this anxiety and slow climate breakdown at the same time. We talk a lot about this as well as our own double standards and how we can live more sustainably without compromising the quality of our lives. I know there are a lot of weird things going on in the world right now, but I actually think this global pandemic is a great opportunity for us to learn more about these issues, make some changes, and reflect on how we want to live our lives, what responsibilities we have towards the planet, and what’s actually important. Links Clara Wessel Instagram @clara.sw www.clarasophiewessel.com Recommended Instagram Accounts and other resources: @atmos @itsfreezinginla @theslowfactory @storiesbehindthings @ecoage @futerra @jackharries @finnharries @aliceaedy @theearthissue @earthpartner @sustainablebk @2040film Websites Ellen McArthur Foundation IPCC The Ecologist The Guardian Creative Climate Cities

This week I’m honored to be joined by Brian Pennie, a Ph.D. candidate in neuroscience and lecturer at Trinity College and University College Dublin. In his new memoir, Bonus Time, Brian writes about his journey from a 15-year heroin addiction to a post-recovery career as a speaker, neuroscience lecturer, and Ph.D. student. In this episode, Brian shares his story of overcoming addiction, how everyone can implement the lessons he learned, and the importance of affirming your own values (his include “boldness, connection, open-mindedness”), asking yourself the right questions, and visualizing the things you want to achieve. Brian believes he was given a second chance (Bonus Time) in life and he does not intend to waste any of it, which makes me appreciate his wanting to come on the show even more. He is an expert on the nature of human suffering and has given more thought to the meaning of life than anyone I’ve ever talked to. I hope you have the chance to listen through the whole episode because Brian sprinkles wisdom throughout the whole conversation. Links Brian Pennie https://www.brianpennie.com/ Medium Articles @bianpennie “This One Question Changed Tim Ferriss’s Life” Bonus Time: A true story of surviving the worst and discovering the magic of everyday Amazon Book Depository Eason Suggested Books The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

This week I am joined by the lovely Adrien Behn, a professional storyteller, public speaker, writer, and world traveler. She’s been featured in The New York Times and BuzzFeed listed her podcast, Strangers Abroad, as one of the best travel podcasts of 2017. Strangers Abroad started out as a series of conversations that Adrien had with the wonderful people she met while backpacking throughout Latin America for 5 months and in her new season she delves deeper to explore topics such as loneliness, anxiety, and identity. In this episode, Adrien shares her experiences as a solo traveler and how she lived abroad for 7 months and never paid for a bed (on top of making rich connections with locals). We also get into some unexpected conversations about the creative process, the complexity of strangers, and finding yourself and your identity in loneliness. Links Latest episode of Strangers Abroad: Alone Adrien Behn www.strangersabroadpodcast.com Instagram @strangersabroadpodcast Strangers Abroad Podcast www.adrienbehn.com

Today I’m joined by none other than Robert Farrington, a personal finance expert and founder of The College Investor. He is also a contributing writer for many major newspapers and his articles on investing, student loans, side-hustling, getting out of debt, and building real wealth have been featured in The New York Times, US Today, Forbes, and Huffington Post just to name a few. He started The College Investor in 2009 as a forum to discuss the myriad of financial issues facing young adults. The website gets over 3 million monthly visitors and helps millennials all over the world get out of student debt and start investing for their future. We rarely talk about personal finance, managing student debt, and loans in school, so this is the perfect opportunity to get a quick crash course in all of it. This episode could change your financial future, so turn up the volume, press your earbuds or AirPods in even tighter, and enjoy this conversation with Robert Farrington. Links Robert Farrington www.thecollegeinvestor.com Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube Article: “Why Millennials Need to Start Investing and Why They Haven't Yet” Free eBook: “Student Loan Debt: Getting in Smart, Getting out Painlessly”

I am joined by Norwegian-based American writer, Kelsey Ozuna. She is a top writer on Medium (Kelsey L.O.) that shares her experiences in life and love, varying from topics such as mental health, relationships, and breakups. Today, however, we talk about how to make the most of self-quarantine. (I stole the following part from one of Kelsey’s articles) Our day-to-day life has changed drastically over the past week as workers are encouraged to stay home, and schools, shops, and restaurants have closed in order to protect ourselves and minimize community spreading of the Corona Virus. We are so used to living in a safe and secure mindset, and suddenly we’ve found ourselves in a situation we’ve only seen in movies. Needless to say, it’s a lot to swallow. A similar thing happened in 1665 when the University of Cambridge temporarily closed due to the third wave of the bubonic plague. Sir Isaac Newton was forced to return home and lived much like we are being encouraged to live now, in isolation in order to avoid contagion and viral spread. During this time, he developed calculus and the theory of gravity. Both of which we all know have been monumental for our advancement as a species. Even if you may not make any groundbreaking scientific discoveries, Kelsey and I both believe you can do more than just binge through Netflix’s latest shows. 10 Ways to Ease Your Coronavirus Anxiety Kelsey Ozuna Being Corona-tined Ain’t All That Bad Medium (All Kelsey’s articles) Instagram @kelseylowriting Twitter @kelozu

This week, I am honored to be joined by Sara Kuburić, a Canadian existential psychotherapist, researcher, writer, doctoral candidate, and speaker currently based in Amman, Jordan. In just a year, Sara has amassed over 330.000 followers on Instagram (@millennial.therapist) where she shares insightful posts about mental health, well-being, and existing in accordance with one’s true self. Millennials are sometimes labeled as “the burnout generation” and are often unfairly criticized for being entitled snowflakes, but it’s not that simple (or arguably true). Research supports the claim that we have more severe mental health issues than previous generations, but few people are asking themselves why that is. In this episode, Sara and I delve into some of the causes behind our generation’s deteriorating mental health and the rising level of loneliness among young people. Sara interestingly points out that we have had to deal with things that older generations never had to, such as social media, longer working hours, stagnant wages, more expensive educations, and much more. We also talk a bit about the concept of online therapy, why you should consider it, and how being more open and transparent about your own struggles both in private and on social media can help destigmatize therapy and the conversation surrounding mental health. Links Sara Kuburic Instagram @millennial.therapist www.sara-kuburic.com YouTube Facebook Pinterest Linktree

Today I am joined by Robyn Agoston, an intrepid world traveler, multi-careerist businesswoman, and all-around amazing human being. She’s spent the past two decades working and adventuring all over the world collecting an encyclopedia worth of fascinating stories along the way. During our chat, we tackle many big topics, such as the positives and negatives that come with living a nomadic lifestyle, finding a balance between a career and stability versus adventuring and traveling, and the sacrifices that come with never truly settling down. Links Robyn Agoston Instagram @followtherobyn Facebook Books The 100 -Year Life by Lynda Gratton & Andrew Scott The Year of Less by Cait Flanders The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

Today’s guest is none other than Orlando Rios, an online marketer, author, podcast host, and producer. With over a decade in digital marketing under his belt, Rios is a veteran in online strategy from the early internet and beyond. Throughout his career, he has worked on campaign collaborations with the WWE, UFC, Star Wars, Marvel, and legendary podcaster Joe Rogan. This episode is a crash course in everything you need to know about launching your own podcast. We answer questions such as: how do you make an intro, how do I market my podcast, do I need to invest in any equipment, and how do I find guests? If you’ve ever thought about starting your own podcast or just want to know more about it, this is the episode for you Links Orlando www.dropkickads.com Instagram @dropkickads Ultimate Marketer Podcast Additional Resources Podcast checklist

Today I am joined by the founder of the eco-conscious lifestyle brand Lovers of The Sea, Omar Itani. A little over a year ago, Omar was living and working for Google in Dublin, Ireland. It was the kind of job many hungry professionals dream of; he had three free meals every day, laundry service, and a dentist right in the office. Aside from the perks, however, Omar realized his job was unfulfilling and decided to quit, start his own business, and become a full-time writer and entrepreneur. Quitting your job to follow your passions is often romanticized in film and on TV, but Omar writes about his honest experience in his article, “I Left My Job at Google And Started My Own Business — Here’s the Truth About Entrepreneurship.” Omar shares the everyday struggles of running his own company and following his passion. The article has been viewed by more than 35.000 people and generated almost 4.000 likes since October 2019, so clearly, Omar has something worthwhile to say. In this episode, Omar and I spoke about his article, and how he motivates himself to push through the hard and lonely days of solo entrepreneurship, following your dreams, dealing with expectations, and the sacrifices you have to make. Links Omar www.omaritani.com Medium @omaritani Instagram @omar_itani Twitter @omar_itani Lovers of The Sea www.loversofthesea.com Instagram @loversofthesea.shop

Moving to a new city is one of the hardest but most rewarding things you can do. Picking up your life and starting somewhere new comes with a whole mix of feelings: part of you might feel optimism for starting a new chapter while another part of you may be anxious about a future of unknowns. Either way, moving cities will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. In this episode, we share our personal stories about moving to new cities across the world. We chat about some of the opportunities and hardships that come with uprooting your life and starting somewhere new. For anyone considering a life in a new city, this episode is for you!

Today I am joined by Norwegian-based American writer, Kelsey Ozuna, to talk about how to move on and get over someone you still love. Kelsey is a top writer on Medium (Kelsey L.O.) that shares her experiences in life and love, varying from topics such as mental health, relationships, and breakups. Her stories are written in a vulnerable and open manner to help her readers realize they are not all that alone in whatever they are going through. We talk about some helpful steps in moving on from a breakup and the importance of acceptance, forgiveness, and respect. For me, the most important takeaway from this conversation is (as Kelsey puts it) “that if you truly loved someone, that doesn’t just go away. That love might just always stay with you.” Love is something everyone can relate to, but few dare to talk or write about it as honestly as Kelsey does and I promise I did my best to be as transparent as possible today as well. Kelsey Ozuna How to Move On From Someone You Still Love Medium (All Kelsey’s articles) Instagram @kelseylowriting Twitter @kelozu Mend App

Today I am joined by Lina Aquino, a Brazilian-born tattoo artist living in Brooklyn, New York. She first moved to the U.S. to pursue a degree in Fashion Design at Parsons School of Design, but after graduating in May 2017, her life took a turn when she discovered the world of tattooing. We talk about what led Lina down that path, why people get tattoos, some current tattoo trends, and how our perception of the art form has changed over the last decade. Lina also discusses tattoos and their relationship with mental health and identity. If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo or just want to know more about it, I highly recommend you listen to this episode and check out all of Lina’s work. Lina Aquino Instagram @linaaquinotattoo Website