In this final installment of our series on spirituality and adventure, I sit down with Bishop Mark Beckman, the 4th Bishop of the Diocese of Knoxville, to explore what happens when faith is formed not just in quiet rooms, but in wild places. From hiking solo through old-growth forests to walking hundreds of miles on pilgrimage, Bishop Beckman shares how discomfort, silence, and physical effort can open us to something deeper than words.

We talk about the moments that push us to the edge of our capacity—storms in the backcountry, long days of walking, fear at high elevations—and how those experiences can shape trust, humility, and presence. This conversation is a reminder that adventure doesn't only take us outward into the world, but inward toward meaning, mystery, and a deeper awareness of God.

• [2:22] – Bishop Mark Beckman's calling to ministry and how the outdoors shaped his faith from an early age

• [6:45] – Discovering God's presence through solitude, silence, and hiking alone in the woods

• [10:48] – Forming a men's backpacking group and finding unexpected community on the trail

• [16:05] – Walking the Camino de Santiago and learning trust one step at a time

• [22:40] – Pushing through fear and physical limits on a 14,000-foot peak in Colorado

• [30:12] – Retreat, silence, and wilderness as pathways to deeper spiritual awareness

• [38:05] – Suffering, endurance, and how hardship can deepen us instead of hardening us

• Appalachian Trail

• Denali National Park

• Camino de Santiago

If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you'd rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes and additional content — it's one of the best ways to support the show and stay connected. Until next time, stay safe and stay on adventure.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Hilal Kanaan - neurosurgeon, son of Palestinian immigrants, and someone whose daily work places him in the quiet but profound landscapes of human suffering, endurance, and compassion. While he isn't chasing adventure in the traditional sense, Hilal spends his days navigating a different kind of wilderness: the emotional and spiritual terrain of walking with people through their hardest moments.

We explore the kind of toughness that's forged not on trails or mountaintops, but in operating rooms, hospital corridors, and the inner worlds shaped by personal history, faith, and humility. Hilal shares what it was like growing up between cultures, how his parents' story of resilience shaped him, and what strength has come to mean inside a profession where asking for help can be the bravest move of all. This conversation broadened my understanding of what "adventure" can truly mean - and I think it'll do the same for you.

[00:00] Opening the conversation with Dr. Kanaan and framing a different kind of adventure.
[02:00] Growing up in Kalamazoo as the son of Palestinian immigrants.
[04:00] The mix of chaos, tragedy, resilience, and optimism woven into Palestinian identity.
[07:00] Balancing two cultures and the intentional ways his parents raised their family in America.
[11:00] The parental tension between comfort and necessary challenge.
[15:00] Identifying "the ghosts in the nursery" - what we inherit, keep, and let go of.
[17:00] The book Hilal created for his kids to help them understand God, compassion, and curiosity.
[24:00] Faith as a language for gratitude rather than certainty.
[29:00] What it feels like to accompany patients through their darkest moments - and how their faith shapes him.
[35:00] The humbling lesson of asking for help when a case goes sideways.
[44:00] Hilal's message to anyone facing hardship: your feelings are valid…and this is not the rest of your life.

• Why Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner (book referenced)

• Interview referenced between Stephen Colbert & Ricky Gervais

If this episode resonated with you, it would mean so much if you'd rate, follow, and review the podcast — it truly helps others discover these conversations.

And don't forget: we're building more content on YouTube, including full episodes, clips, and behind-the-scenes insights.
👉 Find and subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay connected.

Until next time — stay safe, and stay On Adventure.

David Brooks describes life as a journey up two mountains. The first mountain is about achievement—building a career, proving yourself, chasing success. The second mountain begins when the first no longer satisfies, and you're called into a deeper life of meaning, surrender, and service. This episode lives squarely on that second mountain.

This conversation is the second installment in our series exploring where spirituality and adventure overlap, and it's an honest look at what happens when ambition gives way to awakening. I sat down with Scott Sauls to talk about burnout, identity, and the courage it takes to walk away from what once defined you. We explore why suffering often becomes the doorway to spiritual depth, how achievement can quietly turn into addiction, and why community—not independence—is the missing ingredient in most meaningful adventures.

If you've ever felt successful on paper but empty underneath—or sensed a pull toward something more without knowing how to answer it—this conversation will meet you right where you are.

• [2:45] – Why this conversation fits into the spirituality-and-adventure series

• [7:30] – Scott's leadership journey and the hidden cost of achievement

• [14:10] – When productivity becomes identity—and why it eventually breaks us

• [22:40] – Why suffering often precedes clarity, healing, and spiritual growth

• [31:55] – Redefining adventure beyond the outdoors

• [41:20] – The role of community in recovery and transformation

• [52:10] – Curiosity, humility, and letting go of control

• Midlife transition

• Spirituality and adventure

• Burnout, recovery, and identity

• Faith, suffering, and meaning

• Leadership and emotional health

• Community vs isolation

• Risk, uncertainty, and growth

• Scott Sauls – leadership coaching and writing

• The Second Mountain by David Brooks

• From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks

If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might need this conversation. These stories grow through community—and I'm grateful you're part of it.

Thanks for listening. I'll see you on the adventure.

In today's episode—the first in a brand-new series exploring the deeper meaning behind our outdoor experiences—I sit down with my longtime friend, pastor, everyday explorer, and deep thinker, Reed Dunn, for one of the most meaningful conversations I've had on this podcast. This first installment leans less on adrenaline and more on the why—why we're drawn to the outdoors, why hardship shapes us, and why so many of us pursue experiences that push us into awe, wonder, and transcendence.

Reed and I dig into the spiritual side of adventure—what it means to connect with something beyond ourselves, whether you call that God or a higher power. We unpack the way wilderness confronts our limits, how beauty can shake us awake, and why disciplines of "no" might be more important today than ever. And of course, we talk about Reed's years of backpacking, his favorite place in the world, and the moments that have stayed with him long after the trip ended.

Here are the top moments from the episode:

[00:16:00] – Kicking off the conversation: why I wanted Reed on the show and how his story fits into "the meaning side" of adventure.
[00:26:00] – Reed's early backpacking years—Colorado, Arkansas, the Buffalo River Trail, and how those experiences shaped him.
[00:35:00] – The memory of his favorite place on earth: a glacial lake, seven waterfalls, and the power of remembering without a camera.
[00:36:00] – A deep dive into spirituality: what it means to connect with transcendence, how nature becomes a pathway, and why anyone—regardless of belief—can access it.
[00:46:00] – Religion vs. spirituality: Reed breaks down the difference between learning about God and meeting God—and why both matter.
[01:13:00] – Exploring hardship, asceticism, and the spiritual importance of limitation. Why "telling yourself no" opens doors to meaning.
[01:22:00] – The connection between ancient spiritual practices, desert monks, and modern adventurers who push themselves to the edge in search of something more.

• Reed's book, When You Don't Have Words: Praying the Psalms — available wherever you buy books

• Reed Dunn on social media:

  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
• Locations discussed: Colorado trail systems, Buffalo River Trail (AR), Wind River Range (WY), Appalachian Trail (ME/NH section)
• Find us on our new On Adventure Podcast YouTube channel where you can see the full interviews. Also give us a like and a review while you're at it!

If this conversation stirred something in you, inspired you, or made you think differently about why we chase adventure in the first place, I'd love for you to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. It helps more everyday explorers find these stories—and it keeps great conversations like this one coming.

Thanks for listening, and keep living your adventure on purpose.

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with ultra-endurance athlete Lisa Decker, whose story is a powerful blend of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of hard things. Lisa didn't come from a traditional running background—yet she discovered the world of ultra running through community, curiosity, and a willingness to push herself beyond her comfort zone. What followed is a decade-long journey that includes a 120-pound weight-loss transformation, countless ultras, and the life-changing experience of completing the legendary Vol State 500K across Tennessee.

We dive deep into what motivates someone to walk 314 miles in the July heat, how finding the right community can unlock new levels of confidence, and why endurance challenges often lead to profound personal growth. This episode is packed with insight about mental toughness, identity shifts, overcoming self-doubt, and discovering what you're really capable of when you take that first step—literally.

If you're searching for inspiration, endurance storytelling, personal transformation, or insights about long-distance running and mindset, this episode delivers.

[2:15] – Lisa's early life in California, her outdoors-focused upbringing, and how nature shaped her love of adventure.
[6:40] – Discovering the trail and ultra running community through Team RWB and why it instantly felt like "home."
[14:30] – How she balances 10-hour pharmacy shifts with ultra training, and why walking ultras became her key to success.
[17:45] – The unexpected moment on the Vol State ferry that led to forming a five-person pack and transforming the entire race experience.
[23:10] – Kind strangers, roadside hospitality, skunk encounters, and what surprised her most during the 500K journey run.
[28:40] – Doing ultras while overweight, finishing last, and why showing up anyway built the foundation for her transformation.
[36:50] – The mental battle of "head trash," the power of community support, and why being honest about struggles matters.
[49:00] – Future adventure goals, including walking the Caminos in Europe and exploring the world on foot.
[58:30] – How endurance sports shifted her personal identity, career goals, and even her vision for where she wants to live next.

• Team RWB (Red, White & Blue) – Veterans & civilians building connection through fitness
• Vol State 500K Ultra Race Info – Search "Vol State 500K" on UltraSignup
• Snowdrop Foundation – Pediatric cancer support & scholarships

If this conversation inspired you or helped you rethink what's possible for your own life, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Every bit of support helps new listeners discover these stories—and it keeps the adventure going.

And don't forget:

👉 Subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes

What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start chasing wild, audacious goals? That's exactly what we unpack in this powerhouse episode with Mike Wardian—elite endurance athlete, record-setting runner, and all-around inspiration. From running across the United States to setting a fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail for his age group, Mike shares the mindset behind tackling the unimaginable.

But this conversation goes beyond races and records. Mike opens up about what fuels his drive, how he builds resilience through repetition, and how he balances his career, family, and love for adventure. Whether you're prepping for your first 10K or dreaming of rowing solo across the Atlantic (yep, that's on his calendar too), there's something here for everyone chasing big goals.

• How Mike plans his insane endurance calendar using a Post-it Note system

• The real story behind his Appalachian Trail record attempt — injuries, storms, and mental toughness

• Why he's trading trails for water in 2027: rowing across the Atlantic solo

• How to push through when motivation runs dry — the power of micro-goals

• Mike's approach to family, business, and adventure life balance

• What he's learned about humanity and resilience from running thousands of miles

[1:04] – Mike's "goal list" strategy for setting and sticking to ambitious challenges
[4:58] – What is the Taco Bell 50K and the Full Ham Triathlon? (Hint: They're tougher than they sound)
[6:55] – Why Mike's next adventure is rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean
[9:02] – The difference between saying yes to challenges and actively seeking them out
[15:45] – Why the Appalachian Trail holds a special place in Mike's heart
[23:10] – Trail injuries, vegan nutrition, and how Mike fueled himself with 10,000 calories a day
[32:45] – How Mike balances a full-time career and family life while pursuing ultra-endurance feats
[39:01] – The truth about running across America—traffic, kindness, loneliness, and everything in between
[45:40] – Why 100 burpees a day became a key part of Mike's training routine

• Your biggest goals are within reach if you break them into daily reps

• You don't need to quit your job to live an adventurous life

• Embrace the beginner's mindset — it's where the magic starts

• There's no substitute for consistency and curiosity

• "Run toward the thing you're afraid of — it's probably where the growth is."

• Follow Mike Wardian on Instagram: @mikewardian

• Learn more about Mike's gear and sponsors: Teva, Bakline

• Check out upcoming grassroots races like the Taco Bell 50K via Mike's socials

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more conversations just like this. You can find us on YouTube by searching On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self — and don't forget to hit the bell so you never miss a new drop.

If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more everyday adventurers like you. And hey—share it with a friend who's chasing their own wild goals.

Enduring the Impossible with Vincent Antunez

This episode is a deep dive into the mind and mission of Vincent Antunez, DSc, PA-C - a retired U.S. Army Major, ultra endurance athlete, and founder of Trail Toes. From grueling military deployments to multi-day ultramarathons across the globe, Vincent shares how pain, persistence, and preparation have shaped every step of his journey.

We talk about what it takes to push beyond the limits of your body - and more importantly, your mind. Vincent shares raw, powerful stories of suffering and success on the course, the lessons that endurance sports teach about humility and resilience, and the gear and mindset strategies that keep him (and his feet) moving forward. This one is packed with wisdom from the front lines - of both battlefields and ultramarathons.

🎧 Don't forget - we're now on YouTube! Be sure to subscribe to the channel and hit that bell so you never miss an episode. And of course, follow the show wherever you get your podcasts.

[1:12] - How Vincent met ultrarunning legend Lisa Smith-Batchen — and helped her complete her historic Badwater Quad
[3:44] - A military career across decades and continents
[6:57] - How a post-midnight beer run in Germany accidentally became his first marathon
[11:42] - Why he keeps showing up, even without formal training
[13:58] - The 3 reasons people drop out of ultras (and how to beat them)
[20:31] - Innovative tips for staying cool and blister-free on brutal courses
[24:49] - Trail Toes and how Vincent created it in Afghanistan
[38:11] - The psychology of endurance: crews, quitting, and the right kind of pressure
[52:05] - Why Vincent keeps coming back to these events — and what they continue to teach him

• Trail Toes Foot & Body Care

• Vol State 500K

• Band of Runners – a trail running camp for veterans and first responders

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast — and share it with a friend who's always pushing their limits. Every download helps more everyday explorers find their way forward.

How do you embrace fear and failure to build a multi million dollar business, shred heavy metal guitar solos and break land speed records in a custom built car?

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Tom Kubiniec—entrepreneur, former heavy metal guitarist, and the so-called "gun storage guru." From his days tearing up the music scene to building a global business in military weapon storage, Tom's journey is one wild ride. We dive deep into what it means to stake a claim in life before you've "earned it," why failure should be embraced (and quickly), and how creativity fuels not just business, but bold living.

A killer insight from Tom: "You don't know where you're going to land until you jump. As you're falling, you will find a place to land. If you're not happy with that one, jump again."

We also explore his adrenaline-pumping pursuits: restoring rare cars, racing across the Utah salt flats, and finding peace in silence while bow hunting. This episode is about pushing limits, whether in the boardroom, behind a guitar, or out in the wild. If you're looking for inspiration to go all-in on your ideas or just want a reminder of how short life is, this one hits home.

Episode Highlights:

[1:12] - Tom's journey from unknown rock guitarist to global leader in military gun storage

[6:05] - The pivotal moment of "claiming" expertise before it was proven—and why it worked

[13:25] - How public speaking and guitar technique both benefit from slow, intentional practice

[17:00] - Fail fast: Why Tom says failure is not the enemy but the pathway to innovation

[25:55] - The birth of a game-changing locking system after a live simulation revealed a major flaw

[33:02] - Creating personas in business and why it's not about being fake—it's about solving problems

[39:45] - Breaking a land speed record with a 750cc custom car: the build, the danger, the payoff

[44:00] - Why silence in the woods and watching a forest wake up is Tom's ultimate reset

[54:10] - Final reflections on living fully, embracing fear, and making the most of the one life we get

Links & Resources:

• SecureIt Tactical

• Tom's YouTube Guitar Performance (Layla in DADGAD)

• Bonneville Speed Week Info

Closing Remarks: If this conversation with Tom fired you up to take bold steps in your own adventure, make sure to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you enjoyed this one, rate, review, and share it with a friend who's ready to make their move.

Also, don't forget to check out the full video episode and more on our On Adventure YouTube page and hit that Subscribe button.

Thanks for tuning in!