Please make sure to click the 'Follow' the show - It Really helps the show, Thanks!

From a turbulent childhood to nearly facing prison, Deon Barrett found purpose through outdoor adventure, the military, and the True North Project—his initiative to bring outdoor education into schools and make adventure accessible to all. In this episode, Dion shares his powerful journey, the impact of adventure on mental health, and his ambitious plans to summit Everest and ski solo across Antarctica.

We explore:
✔️ How adventure helped Deon overcome trauma and find purpose.
✔️ The True North Project and its mission to transform outdoor education.
✔️ Barriers preventing young people from accessing adventure.
✔️ The mental and physical challenges of preparing for Everest & Antarctica.
✔️ How outdoor learning builds resilience, confidence, and leadership.

Deon’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and paying it forward. If you're passionate about adventure, outdoor education, or personal growth, this episode is for you.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Deon Barrett is the founder of the True North Project, an advocate for youth outdoor education, and an aspiring high-altitude mountaineer. His journey from a troubled youth to a champion for adventure education is as inspiring as it is impactful.

Follow Dion & The True North Project:
🌍 Website: TrueNorthProject.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @TrueNorthProject

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

🔹 True North Project – Outdoor education initiative
🔹 Everest & Antarctica Expeditions – Deon’s upcoming challenges
🔹 Youth Outdoor Education Reform – Advocating for adventure in schools
🔹 Black Girls Hike – Encouraging diversity in the outdoors
🔹 National Outdoor Expo – Where Dion and Chris first met

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

>> The Link You Need

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please make sure to click the 'Follow' the show - it really helps surface the show to a wider audience (which i thank you for!)

Join Chris Watson on the Adventure Diaries podcast as he welcomes Tom Williams, adventurer, entrepreneur, and winner of Alone UK. From surviving 35 days in the Canadian wilderness to founding Desert Island Survival, Tom shares how he turned life’s challenges into transformative adventures. Learn about his journey from city life to thriving in nature, his insights on evolutionary health, bushcraft, and the profound benefits of living simply.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How Tom overcame adversity to become an adventurer and survival expert.
• The concept of evolutionary mismatch and its impact on modern health.
• What it takes to survive and thrive in extreme wilderness conditions.
• Behind-the-scenes insights from Alone UK and the realities of bushcraft.
• The transformative power of living closer to nature.
• Tips for micro-adventures, resilience, and embracing challenges.

Key Highlights:

• Survival & Growth: Tom shares how stepping outside his comfort zone, from polar expeditions to survival in Canada, fueled his personal growth.
• Bushcraft Skills: Hear about primitive techniques like friction fire, fishing, and crafting tools that enhance resilience and adaptability.
• Desert Island Survival: Discover how Tom’s passion for nature led to founding a company that offers immersive wilderness experiences.
• Mental & Physical Benefits: Learn how living aligned with hunter-gatherer principles can improve health, reduce anxiety, and boost happiness.
• Adventure Inspiration: Tom provides practical ideas for micro-adventures, such as kayaking and cycling, to reconnect with nature.

Tom’s Recommendations:

• Read Ikigai to align passion and purpose.
• Explore An Island to Oneself for inspiring wilderness stories.
• Try kayaking or survival courses for a taste of adventure.
• Check out GiveDirectly.org for impactful charitable giving.

Call to Adventure:
Tom encourages listeners to embrace challenges, try micro-adventures, and reconnect with nature for personal growth and mental clarity.

Pay It Forward:
Support GiveDirectly, a charity delivering funds directly to families in need, fostering impactful change.

Connect with Tom Williams:

• Website: Desert Island Survival
• Instagram: @TomWilliamsAlone

Join the Adventure:
Visit AdventureDiaries.com/podcast for show notes and inspiration to plan your next adventure. Keep exploring, keep thriving, and keep paying it forward!

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please make sure to click the 'Follow' the show - it really helps surface the show to a wider audience (which i thank you for!)

Welcome to another episode of Adventure Diaries! In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with David Haze, also known as the Nomadic Paddler, to uncover his incredible journey from the confines of prison to becoming a world-record-setting paddleboarder and passionate advocate for adventure as a tool for personal transformation.

David shares how his life spiraled after losing his identity in the high-stakes world of finance. He speaks candidly about his struggles with addiction, mental health, and the dark moments that led him to serve two prison sentences. However, it was during this turbulent time that he discovered the profound healing power of nature and adventure.

Paddleboarding became David’s escape and his redemption. What started as a chance encounter on a beach turned into a life mission. Fueled by his mantra, “Through adventure we live,” David broke records by paddleboarding the four longest lakes in the UK and crossing the English Channel. He didn’t stop there, pursuing high-altitude lakes and carbon-neutral expeditions while advocating for sustainable practices.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How David turned failure into a catalyst for personal growth.
• The role of adventure in mental health and rehabilitation.
• His incredible feats, including the English Channel crossing and a 310 km paddle to the NEC.
• His charity, Freedom Through Adventure, which supports at-risk youth and young offenders.
• The importance of embracing failure and asking for help.
• His passion for promoting eco-conscious expeditions and mental health initiatives.

David’s story is a testament to the transformative power of adventure. From planting trees in prisons to organizing carbon-neutral expeditions, he uses his platform to inspire and give back.

Whether you're an adventurer, a seeker of second chances, or someone looking for motivation to overcome life's challenges, this episode is a must-listen.

Follow David Haze:

• Instagram: @nomadicpaddler

Call to Action:
Listen in and be inspired to create your own adventure. This weekend, take a step outside your comfort zone—whether it’s a paddleboard outing, a hike, or a simple walk in nature. Through adventure, we truly live!

For more inspiring stories, visit AdventureDiaries.com and subscribe to the podcast!

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please click to 'Follow' the show - it helps surface the show to a wider audience (which I really thank you for!).

In this fascinating episode of Adventure Diaries, we welcome legendary explorer Benedict Allen, whose remarkable journeys span decades and continents. From surviving ambushes by Pablo Escobar’s men to undergoing the brutal crocodile initiation ceremony with the Niara tribe in Papua New Guinea, Benedict’s stories are nothing short of extraordinary.

We delve into his heartfelt reunion with the Yaifo tribe after 27 years, a moment of celebration and resilience that symbolized hope amidst the challenges of gold mining and environmental destruction. Benedict shares his unique philosophy on exploration—emphasizing vulnerability, trust, and learning from indigenous cultures over conquest or adrenaline-fueled escapades.

Discover how Benedict balances the ethical dilemmas of documenting endangered cultures, the impact of modern media on his work, and the lessons he’s learned from tribes thriving against all odds. He also shares practical advice for anyone seeking adventure, including the importance of dedicating sacred time to explore and reconnect with the world around you.

This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration, wisdom, and stories that will ignite your passion for adventure and humanity.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The transformative power of vulnerability in connecting with remote tribes.
• How the Yaifo thrived by isolating themselves from the chaos of gold mining.
• Insights into the brutal yet life-altering Niara crocodile initiation ceremony.
• The ethics and challenges of documenting uncontacted tribes.
• Why Benedict believes adventure is more relevant than ever in today’s interconnected world.

Episode Highlights:

• Benedict's near-death encounters and how they shaped his view of exploration.
• The Yaifo’s extraordinary resilience and how their culture has adapted over decades.
• Reflections on the media’s distortion of exploration narratives.
• The importance of balancing risk with ethical responsibility in modern adventuring.
• Benedict’s advice to set aside sacred time for personal adventures.

Call to Action:
Inspired by Benedict’s stories? Plan your own adventure, big or small! Start by dedicating a weekend to explore something new in your area.

Resources & Mentions:

• Visit Benedict Allen’s website for books and updates.
• Support the Environmental Justice Foundation and Save the Rhino Trust, two causes close to Benedict’s heart.
• Learn more about this episode and others at AdventureDiaries.com/podcast.

Let’s Connect:

• Follow Adventure Diaries on Instagram: @adventurediariespodcast
• Share your thoughts on this episode and leave a review!

Until next time, embrace the adventure and pay it forward. 🌍✨

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please click here to 'Follow' the show - it really helps get the show to a wider audience (which I really thank you for!).

It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone.

In this episode of Adventure Diaries, we’re joined by the remarkable Alice Morrison, Scottish adventurer, writer, and BBC presenter. From her childhood in Uganda to her current life in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, Alice’s story is one of curiosity, resilience, and fearless exploration. We dive into her transformative experiences, from tackling the grueling Marathon des Sables and cycling 12,500 km from Cairo to Cape Town, to trekking across deserts and climbing mountains.

Alice shares how she immersed herself in Arabic culture, navigated challenges like near-death encounters with elephants, and developed a deep respect for Morocco’s rich traditions. She also discusses her upcoming BBC series, Arabian Adventures: Secrets of the Nabataeans, and her ambitious plans for a Saudi Arabian expedition. Along the way, Alice offers powerful insights on pursuing adventure, embracing cultural differences, and facing challenges with courage and humor.

This episode will inspire you to tackle the "niggling" goals in your life and embrace the unknown, whether it’s climbing a mountain, running a race, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The cultural and historical richness of Morocco and Timbuktu.
• How Alice overcame physical and mental limits in extreme adventures.
• The profound lessons learned from living among the Amazigh (Berber) community.
• Insights on respecting cultural differences and challenging personal biases.
• How to turn small steps into big adventures.

Notable Adventures Discussed:

• Marathon des Sables: Six marathons in six days across the Moroccan desert.
• Cycling Cairo to Cape Town: A 12,500-km race through diverse African landscapes.
• Exploring Timbuktu: Navigating the cultural and political challenges of this historic city.
• Alice’s journey into the heart of Morocco’s tannery craftsmanship.

Call to Action:

• Pay It Forward: Support Salve Uganda, an organization transforming the lives of street children through education and care.
• Call to Adventure: Pursue the one goal that’s been on your mind—don’t wait for the perfect time, start now!

Connect with Alice Morrison:

• Website: alicemorrison.co.uk
• Instagram: @AliceOutThere1
• Watch her new BBC series Arabian Adventures: Secrets of the Nabataeans in June 2024.

Tune in and let Alice Morrison’s incredible stories inspire your next adventure!

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please click here to 'Follow' the show - it really helps get the show to a wider audience (which I really thank you for!).

It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone.
In this episode i sit down with Mark Agnew, an accomplished adventurer and a member of the Arctic Cowboys, to explore his extraordinary journey kayaking the Northwest Passage. Mark recounts the challenges, wildlife encounters, and transformative experiences during the 1,600-mile expedition through Canada’s Arctic. From narrowly escaping crushing ice to awe-inspiring moments with narwhals and polar bears, this conversation dives into the essence of adventure and personal growth.

Mark shares how failure in earlier expeditions reshaped his approach to exploration, focusing on performance, discovery, and relationships. Listeners will learn about the immense physical and mental challenges of Arctic expeditions, the camaraderie among teammates, and the profound beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or someone seeking inspiration for your first outdoor journey, this episode offers invaluable insights into the spirit of exploration and resilience.

What You'll Learn:

• The challenges of navigating Arctic ice and subzero conditions.
• Mark’s personal growth after failing twice to row the Atlantic.
• How camaraderie and shared goals define the adventure experience.
• Fascinating wildlife encounters, including narwhals, bowhead whales, and polar bears.
• Tips for starting your own adventures, whether local or grand in scale.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Hydration Challenges: Frozen water and meal replacements tested their resourcefulness in extreme conditions.
• Wildlife Encounters: Mark shares incredible stories of narwhals’ synchronized movements and close calls with polar bears.
• Reframing Success: Mark shifted from external validation to intrinsic goals like camaraderie and immersion in nature.
• Contentment After Adventure: Achieving the Northwest Passage brought not just pride but lasting satisfaction.
• Practical Advice: Start small, embrace simplicity, and don’t let logistics deter your sense of adventure.

About Mark Agnew:
Mark Agnew is a European Adventurer of the Year and author of the upcoming book There Will Be Headwinds (June 2025). Follow Mark’s adventures on Instagram and Twitter (@AdventureAgnew) or visit his website adventureagnew.com.

Call to Action:
Ready to embark on your own adventure? Whether it’s hiking local trails or planning a grand expedition, the journey starts with one step. Check out the Wilderness Foundation UK to support mental health through nature and visit adventurediaries.com/podcast for more inspiring stories.

Follow Adventure Diaries:
Stay connected with us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for updates, tips, and exclusive content. Let’s inspire your next adventure!

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Please click here to 'Follow' the show - it really helps get the show to a wider audience (which I really thank you for!).

It will bring more people, greater stories and more adventures for everyone.

Welcome to another episode of Adventure Diaries! Today, Chris sits down with Valerie Gagne, aka The Running Panda, an elite athlete turned seasoned adventurer. Valerie’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of exploration. From competing at a national level in cross-country skiing and rowing to undertaking solo expeditions in some of the harshest environments, Valerie shares her story of pushing personal limits and embracing adventure as a way of life.

In this episode, Valerie opens up about her early love for sports, her Olympic dreams, and the pivotal moments that shifted her focus from competition to adventure. She recounts the life-changing experience of participating in an Impossible to Possible (I2P) expedition through the Atacama Desert, where she learned to embrace teamwork, vulnerability, and collaboration. Valerie also takes us through her solo ski expedition around the Eye of Quebec, an incredible 190-kilometer journey through challenging winter conditions, where she built confidence by mastering essential survival skills.

We explore:

• Valerie’s early life in an athletic family and her passion for outdoor sports.
• How setbacks in competitive sports led to her transition into adventure.
• The role of I2P in teaching resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
• Mentorship from adventurer Ray Zahab and its impact on her journey.
• The challenges of solo expeditions, including battling slush, injury, and solitude.
• How adventures cultivate mental strength, self-reliance, and problem-solving skills.
• Valerie’s plans for future Arctic explorations and her love for local “backyard” adventures.

Valerie’s story is an inspiring call to embrace both small, local adventures and bold, life-changing expeditions. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or seeking motivation to step outside your comfort zone, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Links and Resources:

• Follow Valerie: Instagram and TikTok - @_therunningpanda
• Learn about Impossible to Possible: Impossible2Possible.com
• Explore Valerie’s Adventures: Eye of Quebec, Lake Baikal, Baffin Island

Call to Action:

Feeling inspired? Start your own adventure—whether it’s a backyard hike or a polar expedition. Sometimes, the biggest rewards come from simply taking that first step.

For more episodes and show notes, visit AdventureDiaries.com. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform!

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com.

AdventureDiaries.com

#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld