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Area/Topic
Montenegro, Western Balkans, Adventure Travel Guide Training

Hayley Wright
Owner/Operator
Black Mountain Montenegro

Inspired by adventurous parents and after journeying to and living in some of the world's colder places (including the North Pole and Siberia) Hayley turned a passion for adventure travel into a full time job as co-owner/ operator of an adventure travel business together with husband Jack in beautiful Montenegro. The destination is fast becoming known for its incredible mountain and coastal landscapes, rivers,lakes and canyons together with the melting pot of culture, warm Balkan hospitality and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. Working beyond borders throughout Montenegro and the Western Balkan region with a community of fantastic local guides and partners enables our guests to enjoy authentic and often transformational travel experiences, pushing their own boundaries in both physical challenges and cultural discoveries. Hayley is also a member of the Adventure Travel Guide Standard governance board, a framework of global standards of excellence for adventure travel guides and is  passionate about supporting adventure guiding as a serious and respected profession which provides sustainable stewardship for the places and people through whose lands we travel.

https://www.montenegroholiday.com/

Summary
Hayley Wright, the founder of Black Mountain Montenegro, shares her journey from working in the oil industry to becoming an adventure travel operator in Montenegro. She discusses the country's potential for adventure tourism and its unique geographical features, including its mountainous terrain and deep canyons. Hayley highlights the characteristics of Montenegrin people, their hospitality, and their pride in their culture and food. She also talks about the challenges and rewards of running a tourism business in Montenegro, as well as the importance of adventure travel guides and the Adventure Travel Guide Standard. In this conversation, Jason Elkins speaks with Hayley about adventure travel and the importance of creating wonderful experiences worldwide. They discuss the passion for adventure travel, building a community of adventure travel guides, exploring the Western Balkans, and the impact of creating memorable experiences around the world.

Takeaways

• Montenegro offers a unique adventure tourism experience with its mountainous terrain, deep canyons, and diverse cultural heritage.
• The Montenegrin people are known for their hospitality, genuine warmth, and pride in their culture and food.
• Adventure travel guides play a crucial role in providing safe and memorable experiences for travelers, and their profession should be recognized and supported.
• Montenegro's adventure tourism industry has grown significantly in recent years, offering activities such as hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and ski touring.
• Travelers should be prepared for a laid-back and relaxed lifestyle in Montenegro, where time is not a priority and enjoying life is valued. Adventure travel is a global phenomenon that brings people together and creates a sense of community.
• Building a community of adventure travel guides fosters collaboration and shared experiences.
• The Western Balkans, including Montenegro, Croatia, Albania, Serbia, Bosnia, and Macedonia, offer unique and exciting destinations for travelers.
• Creating wonderful experiences in different parts of the world helps make the world feel smaller and more connected.

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.

Adventure Travel, India, Himalayas, Trekking, Rafting

Vaibhav Kala
Founder
Aquaterra Adventures

Guiding since the beginning of organised and serious adventure travel in the early 90s, he has been at the forefront of conceiving, planning and executing trips that were considered too audacious to run.
Those were the days of the telex, fax and shell accounts were barely getting through.

We are different in terms of sheer range of trips, the consistency with which they are run, and the quality and safety of each trip. Our trips are less flash-in-the-pan and more consistent departures, into more and more remote regions, valleys and trails.

Vaibhav is responsible for helping open up remote Himalayan valleys to adventure tourism, and has helped open up Indian river running like none before – with rivers like the Tons 19 years after it was run in its entirety, the Siang (Upper Brahmaputra), Subansari, Lohit in Arunachal Pradesh, the Pindar. Several of these trips are run by our company alone.

https://aquaterra.in/

Summary

Vaibhav Kala, from Aquaterra Adventures in India, shares his journey in adventure tourism and the challenges and successes he has experienced. He discusses the appeal of the Himalayas and the combination of mountain climbing and river rafting in his business. Vaibhav emphasizes the importance of choosing the right operator and setting expectations for adventure travelers. He also highlights the impact of adventure tourism on local communities and the need for safety regulations in the industry. Vaibhav shares information about the Himalayan Adventure Challenge and the growth of adventure travel in India.

Takeaways

• Adventure tourism in the Indian Himalayas offers a unique and diverse experience for travelers.
• Choosing the right operator is crucial for a safe and enjoyable adventure travel experience.
• Adventure tourism can have a positive impact on local communities by supporting the local economy.
• Safety regulations and standards are important to ensure the well-being of adventure travelers.
• Adventure tourism can create lifelong memories and experiences for travelers.

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.

Adventure Travel, Worldwide, Travel Writing

Angie Orth
Author of Flirting with Disaster
Angie Away Media

Angie Orth is a writer and speaker best known for her travel and lifestyle website, Angie Away, and travel series The Jet Sisters. She’s a recovering PR agency publicist, former New Yorker, current Floridian, hesitant risk-taker, and allegedly, a grown-up. She’s the host of the Traveling with AAA podcast and has covered travel for Today, AFAR, Cosmopolitan, Buzzfeed, Lonely Planet, the Today show, and Destination America.

To date, Angie has visited more than 60 countries and she absolutely does not have a favorite.

https://angieaway.com/

Her book "Flirting with Disaster" is available at: https://amzn.to/48UENij

Summary

Angie Orth shares her journey from a small town in Florida to working in PR in New York City and eventually embarking on a year-long trip around the world. She discusses the challenges and loneliness of solo travel, the importance of packing light, and the process of self-discovery through travel. Angie also touches on the pressure of having a favorite place and teases the plot of her book, 'Flirting with Disaster.' The conversation explores the balance between enjoying travel experiences and being aware of the world's challenges. It emphasizes the importance of being a good representative of one's home country and leaving a positive impact on the places visited. The contrast between beauty and reality is highlighted, along with the need to confront first world problems and gain perspective. The concept of adventure extends beyond adrenaline activities to include stepping outside one's comfort zone. Understanding the struggles of others, particularly those in poverty, is a transformative experience. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of appreciating what one has and the luxury of basic amenities. Lastly, it emphasizes the power of connections and conversations in broadening one's perspective.

Takeaways

• Find a balance between enjoying travel experiences and being aware of global challenges.
• Be a good representative of your home country and leave a positive impact on the places you visit.
• Confront first world problems and gain perspective on what others go through.
• Adventure extends beyond adrenaline activities to stepping outside your comfort zone.
• Understanding the struggles of others, particularly those in poverty, is transformative.
• Appreciate what you have and the luxury of basic amenities.
• Connections and conversations with people from different cultures broaden your perspective.

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.

Adventure Travel, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Central Asia

Douglas Grimes
MIR Corporation
President

Douglas was inspired to grow the company after traveling to the Soviet Union in the mid-1980s on a goodwill exchange between members of the Soviet Olympic volleyball team and players of the sport from 11 U.S. states. He has made over 120 trips to our destinations and is a member of the Explorers Club.

Whether exploring archaeological sites in Central Asia and the Caucasus or leading specialty tours, Douglas’s trips have spanned MIR’s destinations since our inception in 1986.

Recent travels include Georgia, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq including Kurdistan, Iran and Armenia.

https://www.mircorp.com/

Summary
Doug Grimes, President of MIR Corporation, shares his experiences and insights in the travel industry. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the transition to a dozen new countries. Doug also reflects on the changing profile of guides and the passion for travel. He shares his experiences visiting North Korea and the potential for future trips. Additionally, Doug highlights the growing tourism industry in Central Asia and the challenges for North Americans in visiting the region. This part of the conversation covers the challenges of traveling to Central Asia, the popular trip called Journey Through Central Asia, the unique society of Turkmenistan, the hospitality and culture in Central Asia, the food scene in the region, the possibilities for digital nomading, the choice between DIY travel and using a tour operator, and the considerations for traveling to Iran. In this conversation, Douglas Grimes, the founder of MIR Corporation, discusses the unique travel experiences his company offers in lesser-known destinations. The conversation covers topics such as the ancient Persian culture and hospitality in Iran, the expansion of MIR Corporation into the Middle East, the new tourism opportunities in Saudi Arabia and Oman, and the vision of connecting people and cultures through travel. It also highlights the adventurous and committed nature of MIR Corporation in exploring unconventional destinations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of travel in promoting understanding and reducing conflicts between cultures.

Takeaways

• Traveling to Central Asia can be challenging due to the distance and limited access, but there are more flight options available now.
• The Journey Through Central Asia, The Five Stans trip is popular as it allows travelers to explore five countries in one trip.
• Turkmenistan is a unique and controlled society, similar to North Korea in some ways.
• Hospitality is highly valued in Central Asia, and the people are friendly and welcoming.
• The food scene in Central Asia is developing, with traditional dishes like plov and bread being popular.
• Digital nomading in Central Asia is possible, but it requires pre-planning and some countries are more suitable than others.
• For a smoother and more immersive experience, it is recommended to travel to Central Asia with a tour operator.
• Traveling to Iran is possible for US passport holders, but it requires a visa and organized planning. Iran offers a rich cultural experience with its ancient Persian culture, architecture, and archaeological sites.
• MIR Corporation has expanded its focus to the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and Oman, which offer new and exciting tourism opportunities.
• The vision of MIR Corporation is t

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.

 Adventure Travel, Worldwide, Paleontology-centric Tourism

Zach Vanasse
Founder & Director
Dinosaur Trips

Zach Vanasse has spent the past decade plus working across a variety of roles in the travel and tourism sector, including travel journalist, marketing and PR consultant, not-for-profit program manager, and guest services and operations director to create unrivalled travel experiences 66 million years in the making.

https://dinosaurtrips.com/

Summary

Zach Vanasse, the founder of Dinosaur Trips, discusses the influence of movies like Jurassic Park on paleontology and the tourism industry. He shares his background in tourism and the challenges of starting his own company. Zach emphasizes the importance of balancing the interests of different travelers and making dinosaur trips appealing to everyone. He also highlights the excitement of discovering something new in the field of paleontology. Dinosaur Trips offers unique travel experiences that combine paleontology with other aspects of tourism. The conversation explores the excitement of paleontology and the challenge of finding the right paleontologists to lead tours. It also highlights the appeal of dinosaurs and the power of storytelling in engaging people with paleontology. The idea of creating standalone trips with paleontology opportunities is discussed, as well as the potential for combining paleontology with wildlife experiences. The term 'Dino Nerd' is embraced in marketing, and the importance of self-selection in the tourism industry is acknowledged.

Takeaways

• Movies like Jurassic Park have had a significant impact on paleontology and the tourism industry, inspiring a new generation of dinosaur enthusiasts.
• Having a background in tourism and a comprehensive understanding of the industry can provide valuable insights and skills when starting a new venture.
• Balancing the interests of different travelers is crucial in designing itineraries that appeal to both dinosaur enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts.
• The possibility of discovering something new in paleontology adds an element of excitement and adventure to dinosaur trips. Dinosaur Trips offers travel experiences that allow people to share in the excitement of paleontology.
• Creating standalone trips with paleontology opportunities can appeal to both paleo nerds and their partners or family members.
• The fascination with dinosaurs and the storytelling aspect of paleontology can engage people of all ages.
• Combining paleontology with wildlife experiences can enhance the overall travel experience.
• Finding the right paleontologists who are good with people and can communicate effectively is a challenge in the 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.

Adventure Travel, Worldwide, Family, Culture, Tourism Business

Robin Pollak
Owner & Chief Adventure Officer
Journeys International

Robin is a creative strategist, experienced facilitator, and the second-generation owner of Journeys International. Founded by her parents in 1978 based on a commitment to cross-cultural connection and environmental preservation, Journeys has long been a pioneer in ecotourism and adventure travel. Now, under Robin's visionary leadership, the company continues to break new ground designing experiences that foster discovery, spark human connection, and help people see the world and themselves through new eyes. Her unique perspective on adventure can be traced back to previous work as an experiential educator in summer camp and university settings, with a focus on service learning, immersive experiences, and ethical leadership. Robin earned an MBA from The George Washington University as a Global Leaders Fellow, and graduated with a BA in psychology from Carleton College. She and her husband, Joe, are raising two extremely energetic boys in Ann Arbor, MI.

https://www.journeysinternational.com/

Summary

Robin Pollak from Journeys International shares her story and insights into the adventure travel industry. She discusses how her parents accidentally started the company and their philosophy of connecting travelers with local cultures. Robin emphasizes the importance of cultural connections and the transformative power of travel. She also discusses the future of adventure travel, including the need for sustainable aviation travel and personalized experiences. In this conversation, Jason and Robin discuss various topics related to travel, including using Chat GPT for trip ideas, traveling with family, milestone trips, and the founder's journey to Antarctica. They also explore the importance of multi-generational travel and creating special memories with parents. The conversation highlights the essence of adventure and stepping outside one's comfort zone to gain new perspectives and transform through travel.

Takeaways

• Cultural connections and immersive experiences are the essence of travel.
• Travel can be a transformative experience that helps people understand their place in the world.
• The future of adventure travel lies in sustainable aviation and personalized travel experiences.
• It is important to challenge assumptions and seek out smaller, more authentic travel experiences. Use Chat GPT as an idea resource for trip planning
• Consider taking your parents on a trip to create special memories
• Antarctica offers a unique and transformative travel experience
• Multi-generational travel strengthens family bonds
• Stepping outside your comfort zone leads to personal growth and new perspectives

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.

Adventure Travel, Chile, Tourism Business, Sustainability & Resiliency

Gonzalo Fuenzalida
Ceo/founder
Chile Nativo Travel

As founder, Gonzalo is responsible for maintaining and developing the characteristics that Chile Nativo is famous for: top notch service, excellent outdoor programs and a continued commitment to sustainability.

Eternally optimistic Gonzalo is an eternal fan of Chile’s great south, its sublime landscapes, moody weather and uncharted canals and islands. His Patagonia travel tip? Choose the shoulder season: bursting with flowers and baby animals in spring; followed by crunchy copper-toned leaves, empty trails and more stable weather in fall.

Besides Patagonia, his heart belongs to Chile’s superlative seafood (unfortunately the same can’t be said for melon - he’s never liked it!). Adventures on horseback across Mongolia, traveling the Trans-Siberian railway and exploring Vietnam and Japan top Gonzalo’s bucket list.

https://chilenativo.travel/

Summary

Gonzalo Fuenzalida shares his journey from leaving corporate life to starting Chile Nativo, an adventure travel company in Patagonia. He discusses the challenges and successes of starting a business during a crisis and the importance of adaptability. Gonzalo also highlights the differences in tourist preferences between Americans and Europeans and the role of language in travel choices. He emphasizes the need for sustainable tourism practices and the importance of employee well-being and happiness. Gonzalo shares upcoming experiences, such as e-bike trips and exploring lesser-known regions of Patagonia. In this conversation, Jason Elkins speaks with Gonzalo about his experiences in Chile and the beauty of its untouched places. They discuss the importance of people in travel experiences and the excitement of exploring new destinations. The conversation concludes with an invitation to visit Gonzalo's website and connect with his team.

Takeaways

• Adaptability and flexibility are key to success in the tourism industry.
• Understanding the preferences and needs of different markets, such as Americans and Europeans, is crucial for attracting clients.
• Language plays a significant role in travel choices, with Americans often seeking English-speaking destinations.
• Crises can provide opportunities for growth and reflection, leading to positive changes in business practices.
• Sustainable tourism practices and employee well-being are essential for long-term success in the industry. Chile offers many untouched and undiscovered places to explore.
• The beauty of Northern Patagonia in Chile is breathtaking.
• The people in a destination play a significant role in creating memorable travel experiences.
• Taking the leap and embracing adventure can lead to incredible 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.

Adventure Travel, Chile, Bicycling, E-bikes

Cristian Levy
CEO
Amity Tours

Hi, I'm Cristian Levy, Founder & CEO, father, husband, cycling enthusiast and passionate skier. Master Degree in Hotel Management and Tourism Business Administration.

My father and I started Amity Tours in 2003. We are a boutique inbound tour operator in Chile, specializing in 4 products: Bike tours, Hiking tours, Skiing tours and Conservation tours. Likewise, we offer Multisport trips, Family Adventures and Woman tours. Our headquarters are located in Pucon, the Capital of Adventure Travel in Chile.

I live 3 months in the Bay Area California and 9 months in Chile's Lake and Volcano District. I am responsible for developing new businesses with European, North American and Latin American clients and strategic alliances with key tour operators around the world. Currently, I'm leading a project to become the first zero waste and carbon neutral adventure company in Chile.

https://www.amity-tours.com/

Show Summary

Cristian Levy, the founder of Amity Tours, shares his journey in the adventure travel industry and the growth of his company over the past 20 years. He discusses the opportunities and challenges he faced, including the development of bicycle tourism and the introduction of electric bikes. Cristian highlights the importance of saying yes to new opportunities and adapting to changing market demands. He also emphasizes the role of technology in the industry and the need for guides to be trained in the latest advancements. Overall, Cristian's story showcases the evolution of adventure travel and the resilience required to succeed in the industry. In this conversation, Jason Elkins speaks with Cristian Levy, the founder of Amity Tours, about the importance of being a team player in the guiding industry. They also discuss the composition of Amity Tours' international team and the role of a bike nerd in the company. Cristian shares insights into their carbon footprint and emissions report, highlighting the impact of air travel on their operations. He explains the process of carbon offsetting and tree planting to compensate for their emissions. 

Takeaways

• Opportunities in the adventure travel industry can arise unexpectedly, and it's important to have the courage to say yes and adapt to new challenges.
• Developing infrastructure and creating unique experiences are key to attracting tourists and growing the adventure travel market.
• The introduction of electric bikes has opened up new possibilities for adventure travel, allowing people of different fitness levels to enjoy cycling tours.
• Technology plays a significant role in the industry, and guides need to be trained in the latest advancements to provide the best experience for clients. Being a team player is the most important skill for guides at Amity Tours.
• Amity Tours has an international team to balance cultural aspects and cater to their international clients.
• The company has a "bike nerd" who takes care of the bicycle fleet and software updates.
• Amity Tours conducted a carbon footprint and emissions report, discovering that air travel contributes to 88% of their total emissions.
• The company is committed to sustainability and is a leader in the adventure travel industry in Chile.
• Amity Tours plants trees to offset their carbon emissions, partnering with indigenous communities for tree planting projects.

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.

Welcome to Book Bites! Hosted by teen services librarian Josh Sanchez, each episode will feature a guest who will talk about one of their favorite YA or teen books. We'll make recommendations for similar books, as well as movies, music--even food. New episodes are released on the first and third Tuesday of every month!

This week's episode features Sheridan, one of the folks leading the library's Vida Latina programming for Hispanic Heritage Month. We'll be talking about The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta, a novel in verse about a young man who finds Drag as a form of self-expression.

Items Referenced:
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin
Borderlands: la Frontera by Gloria Anzaldúa

Our first Non-Profit - One Atta Time.

Sean never desired to start a Non-Profit, but felt the need to solve a problem. I love hearing stories like this from people who are passionate about solving problems, and take it upon themselves to go out an do things to make a difference. Water is such a fundamental need, and something that seems like in today's world everybody would have access to drinkable water. If you would like to support their cause check out www.oneattatime.org