Adventure Travel - Big World Made Small
83 episodes Last Updated: Dec 25, 24
Welcome to the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, where we go far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruises to explore the really cool places, people, and activities that adventurous travelers crave. If your idea of a great vacation is sitting on a beach at an all-inclusive resort, you’re in the wrong place. However, if you’re like me, and a beach resort vacation sounds like torture, stick around. You’ve found your tribe.
My name is Jason Elkins, and as an adventure travel marketing consultant and tour operator myself, I am on a mission to impact the lives of adventure travelers, the tour operators they hire, and the communities that host them, creating deeply meaningful experiences that make this big world feel just a bit smaller.
Are you ready to discover your next great adventure, whether that looks something like climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa, SCUBA diving in the South Pacific, or hot air ballooning in Turkey? Then you’ll be happy to know that each episode of the Big World Made Small Podcast features a fascinating interview with an adventure travel expert that has agreed to share, with us, their own personal stories, favorite adventure destinations, and even some incredibly helpful tips and tricks they’ve learned while in the field. I trust that by the end of each episode you’ll feel like booking a ticket to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of these amazing places, and getting to know the incredible people that live there.
I’ll be your guide as we explore this amazing planet and its people on the Big World Made Small podcast. I am a former US Army paratrooper, third generation commercial hot air balloon pilot, paramotor pilot, advanced open water SCUBA diver, and ex-Montana fly fishing guide and lodge manager. I have managed boutique adventure tour operation businesses in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, off-shore in Belize, the Adirondacks in New York, and the desert of Arizona. I also spent nearly a decade with Orvis International Travel, leading a talented team of tour operation experts, putting together and hosting amazing fly fishing and adventure travel excursions around the world. I have tapped into my experience and network of travel pros to put together a weekly series of exclusive expert interviews that I am excited to share with you.
For the last couple of years I have lived a fully nomadic lifestyle, feeding my passion for exploration, creating amazing adventures, and meeting some of the most fascinating people along the way. I record every episode while traveling, so in a sense you’ll be joining me on my journey. Let’s discover some great adventures together and make this big world feel just a bit smaller.
And, don’t forget to take a quick trip over to our website at bigworldmadesmall.com and join our adventure travel community, where you’ll benefit from new episode announcements, exclusive adventure travel opportunities, and special access to the experts you’ve met on the show. You can also follow us on social media, using the links in the show notes below. And, if you’re getting value out of the show please help us grow by sharing it with your friends, family, and anyone else you know that wants to get far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruise ships, the next time they travel.
And finally, if you’re listening right now, chances are you’ve found some great off-the-beaten path locations and met some great tour operators in your travels. I’d love to hear about them as well, so please let me know what ideas you have for the show by reaching out directly at jason@bigworldmadesmall.com.
I’ll publish another episode soon. Until then, keep exploring. It’s the best way to make a big world feel just a bit smaller.https://bigworldmadesmall.com
Episodes
Area/TopicColombian Amazon, Indigenous Communities, EcotourismMaria SamperCo-OwnerCalanoa AmazonasMaria is a global humanitarian, artist, and singer who has lived in 14 countries, embracing the diversity of cultures and experiences. Maria also facilitates healing workshops, inspired by deep roots in the Amazon, channeling the wisdom and magic from her early years spent with indigenous communities and shamans. Passionate about reconnecting people with their pure human essence, Maria is deeply involved in the Calanoa Project, her family's initiative that invites visitors to explore their true nature in harmony with the natural world. Her life's work is a fusion of art, spirit, and the beauty of human connection.https://www.calanoaamazonas.com/summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Maria Samper, co-owner of Calanoa Amazonas, about her journey, the importance of responsible tourism, and the deep connection between the Amazon rainforest and the indigenous communities. Maria shares insights into her family's commitment to environmentalism, the cultural exchanges facilitated by Calanoa, and the transformative power of travel. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding local perspectives and the impact of tourism on communities and ecosystems.takeawaysCalanoa Amazonas is more than a lodge; it's a project of love.Maria's upbringing in Colombia shaped her connection to nature.Responsible tourism can provide economic benefits to local communities.Cultural exchange is vital for preserving ancestral traditions.The Amazon rainforest is a unique and generous ecosystem.Traveling helps individuals discover themselves and their values.Community involvement is essential for sustainable tourism.Maria's family has dedicated 40 years to environmental education.The importance of listening to local voices in tourism.Traveling with purpose can lead to meaningful experiences. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicWomen's Group & Independent TravelDoni BelauFounder & CEOGirls' Guide to the WorldDoni Belau founded the women-only tour company Girls’ Guide to the World in 2009. With a mission to empower women of all ages to explore the world, Girls’ Guide to the World now offers 60 tours to 40 countries. As an intrepid traveler who has explored over 80 countries, Doni has used her destination knowledge to curate a diverse portfolio of trips catering to a wide range of interests, from cultural immersion and culinary tours to active adventures and wellness retreats. Each itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to spark curiosity, foster authentic connection, and create lasting memories. Doni's diverse experiences, from television production to humanitarian work in South Africa, have fueled her passion for creating transformative journeys that blend personal growth with the joy of exploration. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Doni’s in-depth understanding of destinations, travel trends, and evolving consumer desires ensures that each tour offered prioritizes connection, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. When not leading trips, she divides her time between France, New Orleans, and a sailboat named Relish – a testament to her adventurous spirit.https://www.girlsguidetotheworld.com/summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Doni Belau, founder of Girls' Guide to the World, about her journey from the non-profit sector to creating a unique travel experience for women. Doni shares her insights on empowering women through travel, the importance of taking action, and the dynamics of women-only tours. The conversation also addresses common concerns women have about traveling solo, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in enhancing the travel experience.takeawaysDoni Belau transitioned from a non-profit career to founding Girls' Guide to the World.The business started as a passion project without a formal business plan.Empowering women through travel is a core mission of the organization.Women over 45 represent a significant portion of solo travelers.Taking action is crucial for pursuing dreams and starting a business.Traveling in small groups fosters bonding and connection among participants.Safety is a primary concern for women traveling alone, which is addressed through group travel.The experience of traveling can be life-extending and rejuvenating.Community and support are essential for women to feel comfortable traveling.Travel is not a luxury but a necessary investment in one's well-being. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicColombia, Incentive TravelBruce McLeanFounderBnB Colombia ToursI’m a Kiwi who found a home in the heart of the Colombian Coffee Zone after falling in love with this incredible country (and a girl) back in 2009. Now settled in a small town here, I’ve had the adventure of traveling across Colombia, discovering its breathtaking diversity, and connecting with amazing people. It’s these experiences that inspired me to start BnB Colombia Tours, where I get to share my love for this vibrant country by creating unforgettable travel experiences.Building on the success of BnB, I launched Incentive Travel Colombia to focus on the amazing world of MICE travel. We design flexible, personalized experiences that bring teams together in ways that not only inspire but leave a lasting positive impact on company culture.https://bnbcolombia.com/summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Bruce McLean, founder of B&B Colombia Tours. Bruce shares his journey from New Zealand to Colombia, detailing his experiences in hospitality and tourism. The conversation explores the beauty and challenges of traveling in Colombia, including safety concerns, cultural insights, and the importance of understanding local customs. Bruce emphasizes the friendly nature of Colombians and the diverse experiences the country offers. He also discusses his business, which provides customized travel packages for visitors to Colombia, ensuring they have safe and memorable experiences.takeawaysBruce McLean is a Kiwi who fell in love with Colombia during a visit in 2009.His background in hospitality has greatly influenced his approach to tourism.Colombia is known for its friendly and helpful people, especially outside of Bogota.Travelers should be aware of safety concerns and avoid certain areas.Understanding local culture and customs enhances the travel experience.B&B Colombia Tours offers customized travel packages for various types of travelers.The importance of speaking Spanish when traveling in Colombia is emphasized.Colombia has a rich diversity of experiences, from nature to history.Traveling in Colombia requires patience and acceptance of a slower pace.Bruce's goal is to share the beauty of Colombia with the world. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicWest Africa, Business, Culture, Food, Scooter TripsPhil PaolettaCo-ownerScoot West AfricaFormerly a middle school teacher in Washington, DC, Phil Paoletta is now a semi-nomad based in West Africa. An obsession with highlife music originally drew him to Ghana in 2005. Once he arrived there, he found other things — groundnut stew, the Twi language, mapouka (both the dance and the liqueur), orange-headed lizards — that he also liked. In 2010, he quit his job to travel back to West Africa. He figured he had enough money for a 6-month trip. He didn’t know it at the time, but that trip would never actually end. Fourteen years later, Phil finds himself based in Senegal, leading scooter trips around the region with Scoot West Africa, and making frequent stops in Bamako, Mali, where he is part owner of the Sleeping Camel hotel and restaurant. Since 2016, he has been collaborating with former tourist guides in Timbuktu on Postcards from Timbuktu, an e-commerce project that supports the guides and their families following the collapse of Mali’s tourism sector. When he is not moving around, he enjoys relaxing on the beaches of Senegal’s Petite-Cote with his wife and two kids.https://scootwestafrica.com/summaryIn this episode, Jason Elkins interviews Phil Paoletta, co-owner of Scoot West Africa, who shares his journey from a transformative concert experience to living in West Africa since 2010. Phil discusses the cultural richness of the region, the importance of music and food in social interactions, and the unique travel experiences offered by his company. He emphasizes the need for open-mindedness in travel and encourages listeners to explore West Africa despite common misconceptions. Phil also shares insights on starting a business in a challenging environment and the rewarding connections made through travel.takeawaysPhil has been based in West Africa since 2010.A concert sparked Phil's interest in Afrobeat music.Traveling in West Africa offers immersive experiences.Food is a significant part of social interactions in West Africa.Phil started Scoot West Africa in 2017.Clients should be open to spontaneous experiences.West Africa is an under-visited region for tourism.Cultural connections are vital in travel.Phil emphasizes the importance of community in West African life.Traveling is about discovering places on their own terms. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicWorldwide, Expedition Cruises, Adventure Tourism Industry, BusinessTodd SmithFounder & PresidentAdventureSmith ExplorationsInspired by his grandfather to camp and travel the world, Todd’s wanderlust started early. A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment changed his outlook on life, instilling at an early age a precious perspective to live life to the fullest. Launching his career as a naturalist guide in Alaska and Baja California, Todd gained firsthand experience operating expedition cruises and learned what it takes to exceed traveler expectations. He was instrumental in pioneering early adventure cruises with Zodiacs, kayaks and professional expedition leaders. Connecting travelers to the wilderness and conservation became his lifelong passion and the foundation of his successful adventure travel company, AdventureSmith Explorations, established in 2003.Todd has been named a Top Travel Specialist on Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Top Travel Specialists List 11 times, and has been featured on television shows such as Lonely Planet and Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures. He’s an elected board member of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association) and an advocate for sustainable travel initiatives worldwide. https://adventuresmithexplorations.com/summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Todd Smith, founder and president of Adventure Smith Explorations. Todd shares his journey from the ski industry to adventure travel, discussing the evolution of expedition cruising and the importance of small ship experiences. The conversation delves into the changing dynamics of the cruise industry, personal influences that shaped Todd's career, and the significance of relationships in the travel business. They also explore current trends in expedition cruising, including the appeal of the Arctic and Northern Lights, and the benefits of working with Adventure Smith for planning travel adventures.takeawaysTodd's journey into adventure travel began after college in the ski industry.The evolution of expedition cruising has created a niche market for small ship experiences.Small ships allow for deeper exploration of destinations compared to large cruise ships.Relationships with clients, staff, and partners are crucial for success in the travel industry.The pandemic taught the importance of maintaining strong relationships in business.Diversification in travel offerings can help mitigate risks associated with regional conflicts.The Arctic and Northern Lights are becoming increasingly popular travel destinations.New luxury expedition ships are changing the landscape of adventure travel.Adventure Smith offers personalized service without additional costs compared to booking directly.The auroral cycle's peak presents unique opportunities for travelers to experience the Northern Lights. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicTechnology Trends & TourismSebastian RiedelCEOOasis Travel PlatformSebastian is the CEO of the Oasis Travel Platform, a company dedicated to streamlining travel operations for businesses. From an early age, Sebastian’s life was shaped by his passion for travel, which led him to transition from a successful career in technology to the travel industry. He co-founded Global Basecamps, an international tour operator that offers unique, authentic travel experiences.Through Oasis, Sebastian combines his expertise in technology with his love for exploration, offering a solution that simplifies travel logistics while enhancing the overall experience for companies. His focus remains on the human connections and meaningful experiences that make travel a powerful force for personal and professional growth.https://myoasisapp.com/summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Sebastian Riedel, CEO of the Oasis Travel Platform. They discuss Sebastian's journey from a childhood filled with travel to his career in the travel industry. The conversation explores the evolution of travel experiences, the importance of human connection, and the challenges of maintaining relationships while pursuing a travel-centric lifestyle. Sebastian shares insights on starting Global Basecamps and the development of Oasis, a platform designed to streamline travel operations for companies. The episode emphasizes the significance of creating meaningful travel experiences and the impact of technology on the travel industry.takeawaysTravel has been a significant part of Sebastian's life since childhood.Sebastian transitioned from a tech-heavy career to the travel industry.The excitement of travel has changed with technology.Human connection is a vital aspect of travel experiences.Traveling is about creating memories rather than accumulating things.The challenges of a travel lifestyle can impact personal relationships.Finding a travel partner who shares your wanderlust is crucial.Global Basecamps was founded to provide unique travel experiences.Oasis was developed to streamline travel operations for companies.The importance of adapting to changes in the travel industry. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicMexico, Latin America, BusinessAlex VekaFounderVibe AdventuresPassionate traveler, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner on a mission to make authentic, responsible, and mind-broadening travel accessible to adventurers and curious souls worldwide."Originally from Belarus, I've lived, studied, and worked in seven countries before finding my second home in Mexico. With over 50 countries visited and counting, I'm a perpetual learner, speaking several languages and deeply interested in history, geography, and cultures. Armed with a formal Ph.D. and countless lessons from the "university of life," I'm now channeling my passion into running Vibe Adventures, a travel startup offering a simpler way of booking adventure holidays worldwide."https://vibeadventures.com/summaryAlex Veka, founder of Vibe Adventures, shares his journey from being a passionate traveler to starting his own travel company. He was inspired by childhood experiences, including participating in programs for Belarusian kids affected by the Chernobyl disaster and traveling to the Netherlands. Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and eventually work in the travel industry. He met his Mexican wife in China and they embarked on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina, which laid the foundation for Vibe Adventures. Alex's passion for travel and technology drives his goal of making booking experiences easier. Alex Veka discusses his experiences in travel and tourism, from working in hospitality to starting his own adventure travel company, Vibe Adventures. He shares his love for Mexico and the vibrant life it offers. Alex also talks about his mission to simplify and make it easier for people to book adventure holidays worldwide. He highlights the importance of providing authentic local experiences and the need to cater to the changing preferences of millennial and post-millennial travelers. Alex mentions his future plans to add an agent portal to his platform and create a dynamic packaging feature that combines flights with multi-day adventures.takeawaysChildhood experiences, such as participating in programs for Chernobyl-affected kids and traveling to the Netherlands, sparked Alex's passion for travel.Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and work in the travel industry.Meeting his Mexican wife in China and embarking on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina inspired the creation of Vibe Adventures.Alex's goal is to make booking experiences easier through the use of technology. Traveling to different countries and experiencing different cultures can be a dynamic and exciting adventure.The hospitality industry can be limiting in terms of career growth and flexibility.Starting your own business in the travel industry allows for more freedom and the opportunity to create unique experiences for travelers.There is a need for simplifying the booking process for adventure holidays and providing authentic local experiences.Millennial and post-millennial travelers prefer independent and customizable travel experiences.The future of travel booking involves combining flights with multi-day adventures through dynamic packaging. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicAfrica, Safaris, Conservation, GuidingAnt KaschulaFounderPrivate Guided SafarisI am a born & bred, fourth generation Zimbabwean who's professional guiding career spans more than two decades. I have travelled the length and breadth of the African continent and I have guided or lead safaris or expeditions in twenty-one different African countries.As the holder of the most highly respected professional guiding qualification in the world coupled with a Masters degree in Ecology and interests ranging from Botany, Bushcrafts & Fly Fishing to Entomology & Recreational Flying, provides me with the background to impart an incredible breadth & depth of knowledge to my guests.I am an ExCo member of the Zimbabwe Professional Guide's Association and am involved in ensuring the high levels of training and examining of the next generation of professional guides is maintained.I have a ceaselessly questioning mind and as per one of my mentor’s sayings – have, eyes for seeing and not just looking, which means that very little goes undetected by my radar and no stone is left unturned in my quest to provide my guests with that 'perfect moment’.In terms of being a specialist, I am most happy whilst leading walking safaris through big game areas and particularly enjoy spending time with elephants on foot.Having had the privilege of spending much of my adult life exploring the continent’s wildest landscapes, what has become more and more apparent are the threats faced by these rapidly diminishing refuges. Truly passionate and dedicated to the long term safeguarding of these areas, I tend to direct my support, and that of some of my philanthropic guests, towards protected areas which are managed by organizations that are moving the needle in terms of protecting Africa’s remaining wild spaces.https://www.privateguidedsafaris.com/summaryAnt Kaschula, founder of Private Guided Safaris, shares his journey and passion for the African wilderness. He explains why he chose the name Private Guided Safaris instead of using his own name, highlighting the importance of providing a high level of service rather than focusing on an individual. Ant discusses his early experiences in the bush and how they shaped his career as a safari guide. He also talks about the boarding school experience and the strong bonds formed with friends during that time. Ant emphasizes the unique opportunities for walking safaris in Zimbabwe and the intimate and personal experiences they offer. Ant Kaschula emphasizes the importance of having a private guide on a safari trip, as they provide personalized service and create a unique and unforgettable experience. He highlights the value of staying in remote and exclusive locations, where guests can have a more intimate and authentic wildlife encounter. Ant also discusses the benefits of direct communication between the travel agent, the guide, and the clients, as it allows for better coordination and customization of the itinerary. He encourages travelers to be open-minded and trust the expertise of their guide when planning their safari adventure.takeawaysChoosing a business name that focuses on providing a high level of service rather than an individual can be beneficial for future growth and scalability.Early experiences in the bush can have a profound impact on shaping a career in safari guiding.Boarding school can provide unique opportunities for personal growth and strong friendships.Zimbabwe offers exceptional opportunities for wal Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicWorldwide, Trekking, LifestyleJim YoungFounder & DirectorAdventurous EweFrom the heart of Snowdonia in North Wales, Jim founded Adventurous Ewe after years of guiding overland expeditions and trekking through many remote patches of the planet. This combined with his profound passion for and knowledge of the world’s diverse environments, wildlife, cultures, and customs have equipped him with many stories to share.Having lived and led expeditions across the rugged terrains of Africa, the mystical landscapes of Asia, and the vibrant locales of South America, Jim's experiences are as rich and varied as the destinations he explores. His charisma and familiarity with these regions, especially Morocco, make him something of a local celebrity, greeted warmly with endless handshakes and the familiar chants of "Jim!" echoing through the dusty streets of Imlil.An accomplished high altitude guide, Jim holds a plethora of certifications, including Mountain Leader, Mountain Bike Leader, and Advanced Wilderness First Aid. He is also a certified 4-Star Level 2 Kayak Instructor, Rescue Boat Operator, and skilled bike mechanic. Despite his extensive qualifications, Jim is equally known for his hearty laughter and the occasional 'really bad' joke, bringing lightness and joy to every expedition.At the heart of Jim's philosophy is a commitment to crafting unique, thrilling travel itineraries that go beyond standard travel packages. He thrives on creating experiences that are not only adventurous but also deeply connective, allowing travelers to explore the soul of each destination. When he's not scaling mountains or charting new, unexplored routes, Jim indulges in his love for sea kayaking, kite surfing, and journeying through the world’s wildest places. Accompanying him on many of his adventures is his beloved dog, Moshi, a steadfast companion in both spirit and adventure. Jim's life is a testament to the belief that travel should be more than just visiting a place; it should be an immersive journey that transforms and inspires.https://www.adventurousewe.co.uk/summaryJim Young, founder and director of Adventurous Ewe, shares his journey from working in the family business to becoming an adventure travel leader. He started with overland trips in Africa and then expanded to South America, the Middle East, and Asia. Jim recounts some of his most challenging adventures, including driving on the Friendship Highway from Kathmandu to Beijing and getting stuck in the Tibetan Plateau. He also discusses the transformative experiences of his guests, who often start out nervous and unsure but grow in confidence and resilience throughout the trip. Jim emphasizes the importance of breaking down challenges into smaller parts and enjoying the journey. Jim Young shares his experiences in the travel industry, including the challenges and rewards of running a travel business. He emphasizes the importance of following your passion and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Jim also discusses the impact of travel on mental health and the value of experiencing different cultures. He shares his excitement for new trips and itineraries, including cycling in Rwanda and treks to K2 Basecamp and Norway/Sweden. Overall, Jim's message is to embrace adventure and take the leap to explore the world.takeawaysAdventure travel can be a transformative experience, allowing individuals to grow in confidence and resilience.Breaking down challenges into smaller parts can help manage feelings of overwhelm and allow for a Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.
Area/TopicWorldwide, Central Asia, Middle EastMarc LeadermanProduct & Operations DirectorWild Frontiers Adventure TravelWhen I was younger we never journeyed anywhere as a family, so my love of travel really started at university when I spent one summer teaching English in Romania, in what turned out to be one of the most transformative trips I have ever experienced. It was just after the fall of communism and it was a real eye-opener for me to see people, the same age as me, living such different lifestyles - something I’d only really glimpsed on the news. They had all lived through the turmoil and violence of the events of 1989, so meeting them and hearing their stories really piqued my interest in the wider world.After graduating, I taught English in Japan and then I went to Australia, where I spent some time as a door-to-door salesman. When I eventually came home, it was short-lived - I spent the next ten years as a UK tax-exile, tour-leading in over 60 countries from North Korea to Mali. On one occasion where I returned to London, I met Jonny. I thought I’d been to some of the most adventurous places out there before I met him! I attended one of Jonny’s talks on Afghanistan and he thought I was spying for a rival travel company, but I was just interested in what Wild Frontiers did and now I head up the Product and Operations department (and also, regrettably, have to pay tax!)With my product hat on, I’m always looking at new areas to which we can travel - a role which is endlessly exciting, especially as the world changes. It’s important that we keep that Wild Frontiers’ edge on emerging destinations. But it’s also about visiting familiar places in new ways.From the operational side, it’s really about managing the constant challenges that come up on tours, the ever changing rules and regulations and just making sure that everything on the road happens as planned. It’s no easy task and assuredly a 24/7 job as we will almost always have several clients travelling at any given time to one of the 90+ destinations we offer.https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/summaryIn this conversation, Jason Elkins interviews Marc Leaderman, the product and operations director for Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel. Marc shares his journey from a childhood with limited travel experiences to becoming a tour leader and exploring different countries. He talks about the importance of pushing boundaries and trying new things, as well as the impact of travel on one's perspective and happiness. They also discuss the changes in the travel industry over the years, including the use of technology and the challenges of staying present with clients. In this conversation, Marc shares his experiences as a tour guide and the challenges of balancing customer expectations with sustainable tourism practices. He discusses the importance of finding a balance between popular tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Marc also highlights the impact of technology and social media on the rapid growth of new destinations and the challenges of over-tourism. He emphasizes the need for respect and collaboration with local communities and the responsibility of tour operators to provide a positive and sustainable travel experience. Marc concludes by sharing the power of travel in fostering understanding and breaking down cultural barriers.takeawaysTravel experiences can have a profound impact on one's perspective and happiness.Pushing boundaries and trying new things can lead to personal growth and self-dis Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.