Continuing “Adventure Habits” – The Ultimate Podcast for Aspiring Adventurers! 🎙️🌍

Welcome to the second package of Adventure Habits Pod Cast Interviews! Updated every 2 weeks you’ll find inspiring stories from life-long Adventurers. Top-up your inspiration and develop the 5 hard-learned Adventure Habits that come FREE with each episode.

Not enough for you? There’s an adventurer for everyone in our Archive right HERE.

March 29th, Episode 29 – Dawn Smith’s Adventures Rowing the Atlantic 6 times!

You don’t cross the Atlantic six times by row boat without some incredibly lucky escapes from near death experiences. Dawn Smith shares her incredible ocean rowing adventures, the mental and physical preparation involved, and her inspiring story. Discover her top adventure habits, the challenges faced, and how to build resilience for extreme endeavors.

Dawn’s Take homes…

“No option but to keep going”
“Preparation is key to success”
“Age is no barrier to adventure”

Dawn’s Links

• Dawn’s Aurora Sea School and details of past and upcoming rowing adventures HERE.
• Please support Dawn’s charity for PTSD sufferers, Phoenix Heroes HERE.
• Be top of the class at Aurora Sea School with the Rivers Crouch and Roach Chart HERE.
• Get the training from Dawn, get your craft from Rannoch Adventure HERE.

March 15th, Episode 28 – Embers Woodcraft, supporting those protecting us

In this episode of Adventure Habits, David speaks with Jason Reeves, the veteran founder of Embers Woodcraft, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals suffering from PTSD, particularly first responders. From Jason’s background, we learn the importance of mental health support, and how nature plays a crucial role in healing. The conversation also covers upcoming adventure programs, the significance of humor and preparation in outdoor activities, and the necessity of proper nutrition and safety measures. Jason emphasizes the importance of adaptability in both adventure and life, encouraging listeners to seek help and support when needed.

Takeaways

• Jason Reeves is a veteran who founded Embers to support PTSD sufferers.
• Embers provides a safe space for first responders to share experiences.
• Nature therapy is effective in reducing mental health issues.
• Humor is essential in coping with stress and trauma.
• Preparation is key to successful outdoor adventures.
• Proper nutrition is crucial for physical and mental performance.
• Communication and safety are vital in outdoor activities.
• Adaptability is important in both adventure and life.
• Mental health challenges vary for each individual.
• Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Jason’s links

• Embers Woodcraft website
• Donate and help more PTSD sufferers
• Follow on Instagram

March 1st, Episode 27 – Gina Allsop, Adventure for Mental Health Beyond the Barracks

In this episode of Adventure Habits, David Overton interviews Gina Alsop, a former military engineer and extraordinary adventure enthusiast. Gina’s journey starts in the army cadets, a first step toward a phenomenal military career before her current work addressing mental health with charitable expeditions. She discusses her 5,200 miles challenge, emphasizing the importance of foot care, nutrition, essential gear, planning, and enjoying the journey in outdoor adventures.

Takeaways

• Gina advocates for mental health through charity work and outdoor adventures.
• Her 5,200 miles challenge aimed to raise awareness for veterans’ charities.
• Foot care is crucial for long expeditions; flip-flops or plastic bags can help.
• Nutrition is key; knowing your body and what fuels you is essential.
• Always carry the right gear, including a personal first aid kit.
• Planning your adventure helps manage expectations and pacing.
• Enjoy the journey and the experiences, not just the end goal.
• Be prepared for unexpected challenges and stay self-reliant.

Gina’s Links

Gina’s fund raising. Help a worthy cause and encourage more adventure right HERE.

February 15th, Episode 26 – Jamie Ramsay Running the Americas and Adventuring beyond

Jamie Ramsay is an extraordinary adventurer who ran from Vancouver to Buenos Aires. His journey starts from a successful but unloved career as a partner in a London based PR agency and takes us on a phenomenal adventure packed with challenge and life affirming encounters en-route. Jamie shares his five essential habits for adventurers, emphasising the importance of preparation, understanding one’s motivations, and leaving the environment better than you found it. The conversation highlights the transformative power of adventure and the personal growth that comes from stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

Takeaways

• Adventure is about personal motivation, not competition.
• Failing is a part of the adventure and leads to growth.
• Preparation and understanding your gear are crucial for success.
• Knowing your ‘why’ can help sustain motivation during tough times.
• Leaving places better than you find them is an essential responsibility.
• Adventure can change your perspective on life and personal fulfillment.

Jamie’s Links

Jamie has written his first book. I’ve read it. It’s brilliant. Buy it from his website and suppot his next adventure HERE.

February 1st, Episode 25 – Siobhan Daniels Be a Rebel in Retirement

• In this episode of Adventure Habits, host David Overton speaks with Siobhan Daniels, the ‘Retirement Rebel.’ Siobhan shares her journey of transformation after facing personal challenges in her mid-50s, including the loss of family members and her own health struggles. She redefined her life after retirement, encouraging YOU to embrace your age and pursue adventures that bring joy and fulfillment. Siobhan’s mission is to inspire older women to live boldly and to challenge societal norms regarding aging, proving that life can be vibrant and adventurous at any age.
• Siobhan’s discusses adventure habits include saying yes to new experiences, documenting adventures, engaging with local communities, enjoying solo travel, and connecting with other women.

Takeaways

• Say yes to new experiences, even when afraid.
• Document your adventures to cherish memories.

Siobhan’s Links

• Become a rebel, whatever age, inspiration on the Retirement Rebel Website HERE.

January 18th, Episode 24: Ben Smith, Peak Planet – Habits from Africa’s tallest mountain – and shared at Olympia with SplashMaps!

In this episode in our series celebrating Adventure Travel, host David Overton explores the adventures of climbing Kilimanjaro with Ben from Peak Planet. How do you prepare, equip for safety, and embrace the personal growth found atop this fabled bucket list mountain?

They discuss the diverse range of climbers, the significance of acclimatisation, and the unique experiences that come with such adventures. Ben shares valuable insights on breaking out of comfort zones, finding one’s purpose, and the importance of humility and perspective in adventure. Ben’s view is that adventure is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or experience, so, listeners, it’s time to embrace your curiosity and seek new experiences.

Ben’s Links and Special Offers

• Meet Ben at stand AC138, Destinations Show, London Olympia – 29th Jan to 1st Feb. If you are considering Kili, contact me and we’ll fix a dedicated time for you & Ben. FREE tickets to Destinations HERE.
• Climb Kili with the experts at Peak Planet HERE.
• Check out our pre set-up Camino trails HERE.
• Get a Kilimanjaro Map HERE.

December 21st, Episode 23: Tamara Ivancova, Amara Automotive and making Net Zero Happen in transport

In this episode of Adventure Habits, David Overton interviews Tamara Ivancova, the founder of Amara Automotive, who is on a mission to revolutionize sustainable transport with her innovative electric vehicle, the Elecy. The conversation explores the vision behind Amara Automotive, the challenges of designing a vehicle that minimizes emissions, and the ultimate road test/ development challenge as she takes her invention a global adventure. Tamara shares her five adventure habits that emphasize a limitless mindset, embracing discomfort, enjoying the process, asking for help, and believing in oneself.

Tamara’s Take aways

• Amara Automotive aims to make Net Zero happen through innovative vehicle design.
• The Elecy is designed to replace cars for short journeys, promoting cycling.
• Embracing discomfort is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Enjoying the process is crucial in any adventure or project.
• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
• Believing in oneself is vital, especially during challenging times.

Tamara’s links

• Amara Automotive Website – gain the latest news of the challenge and invention here.
• Amara Automotive YouTube Channel – Follow for regular indepth updates, starting in January 2026: https://www.youtube.com/@AmaraAutomotive
• Instagram regular story and reel update: https://www.instagram.com/amaraautomotive/

December 7th 2025, Episode 22: The Longest Climb of Everest in History – Mitch Hutchcraft swam the channel, cycled Europe and Asia before he summitted. The Ultimate Challenge?

What a privilage to interview adventurer of our year, another Guinness World Record holder, Mitch Hutchcraft. Having loved his talk at the Armchair Adventure Festival, fresh from this monumental feat, it occurred to me there are few words, experiences or even exaggerated song lyrics to match this achievement. But which was the worst bit? Where did the drive to take on a gargantuan +13 000 km overland/ water Odyssey come from? Would you have been surprised to hear it was Brian Blessed??

Mitch’s Take Aways

Mitch’s thing is that every challenge is personal. It’s not about measuring against anyone or anything else. Afterall, his expedition was conceived when he was just 6 years old, hugely influenced by his ADHD diagnosis and shaped by tragedy in the family. So, whether you’re planning your first 5k, first dip in open water or your trek across the Andies, his habits will serve you well.

• Keep the idea simple
• Do your research
• Compartmentalise – Break down your adventure into tiny, tiny chunks
• Mix with a like minded community
• Get comfortable being (even a bit) uncomfortable

Mitch’s Links

• The Limitless challenge – All details HERE
• Join Mitch for the Great British Dog Walk right NOW! Lowest to highest points in Britian, join in HERE
• The Book that started it all by Brian Blessed HERE.

Episode 21: Kayaking Adventures – Will Copestake of Kayak Summer Isles and Adventurer of Scotland, Patagonia & the Antarctic

In this episode of Adventure Habits, host David Overton speaks with adventurer Will Copestake about his experiences kayaking near home and in the extremes. Will shares insights on his background, the challenges of kayaking in cold environments, and the importance of planning and reviewing adventures. Check out his business, Kayak Summer Isles, and take his practical advice on adventure habits, including dry management, understanding ego, and the significance of being a tolerable companion in the outdoors. The conversation emphasises the joy of adventure and the importance of safety and preparation.

A tase of his takeaways

Adventure is about planning, doing, and reviewing.
Good technique in kayaking can make it accessible to many.
Parking your ego can lead to safer decision-making.
Be tolerable!
Managing ‘Dry’ is essential.
…listen for more amazing tips!

Will’s Links

• Join Will for a paddle at Kayak Summer Isles HERE.
• Will’s fabulous Instagram Feed is worth a follow HERE.
• Check the special Kayak map Will designed for us HERE.
• COMING SOON: Will’s working with us on a ‘North Coast and Hebrides’ Kayak Map. Any takers?

Episode 20: Humanitarian Habits – Paul Taylor MBE of Re-Act reflects on a career responding to Disasters just before deploying to Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

In this episode of the Adventure Habits podcast, David Overton speaks with Paul Taylor, the International Operations Manager of React, about the organization’s mission in humanitarian response. Paul shares his insights while training responders immediately before deplying to Jamaica. He shares the challenges faced in the field, and -of course!- his own personal adventure habits that enhance preparation and situational awareness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience, teamwork, and the ability to adapt in dynamic environments.

What qualities would you expect from an international disaster manager?

Take Aways

• Key qualities for responders include competencies, character, and chemistry.
• Situational awareness is crucial for effective disaster response.
• Humanitarian work often involves navigating political complexities.
• Preparation involves detailed planning and research before deployment.
• Understanding local atmospherics enhances situational awareness.
• Immersion in local culture enriches the adventure experience.
• Efficiency in routine tasks allows for more downtime and reflection.
• Rest, reflection, and reset are essential after intense experiences.

Paul’s Links

• Re-Act is a donation dependent organisation, providing essential resource when people are at their most vulnerable. Learn about and support them HERE.
• Follow Paul in Instagram HERE.