Jorge Salas
CEO and Founder
New Paths Expeditions

Jorge Salas, the visionary CEO and founder of USA based New Paths Expeditions, is guiding the celebrated tour operator into its milestone 10th anniversary in 2024. With a lifelong passion for wildlife and exploration, Jorge has extensive experience in the travel industry, having led expeditions across South and Central America, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the polar regions. He has served on the board of leading U.S. travel brands, including International Expeditions as Product Developer, Operations Director, Crisis Handler, Director of Safety, and Senior Expedition Leader, while creating personalized journeys for clients worldwide. His commitment to conservation and community development shines through his work with organizations in the Peruvian Amazon. Jorge’s expertise in travel logistics and safety, combined with his passion for transformative experiences, has established New Paths Expeditions as a premier provider of immersive journeys to over 65 exotic destinations.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins speaks with Jorge Salas, the CEO and founder of New Paths Expeditions. Jorge shares his journey from a young boy inspired by his grandfather's National Geographic collection to becoming a leader in the adventure travel industry. He discusses the importance of connection in travel, the shift towards private trips post-pandemic, and the unique cultural experiences offered in destinations like Papua New Guinea. Jorge emphasizes the value of small group travel and the careful curation of trips to provide enriching experiences. He also shares exciting plans for family-oriented travel experiences with his daughter, Josefina, as they aim to create memorable adventures for families.

takeaways

• Jorge's passion for travel began at a young age, inspired by his grandfather's National Geographic collection.
• He has over 32 years of experience in the travel industry, starting as a guide in Chile.
• New Paths Expeditions focuses on small group travel to remote destinations.
• The pandemic has shifted traveler preferences towards private trips and family experiences.
• Cultural immersion is a key aspect of Jorge's travel philosophy.
• Papua New Guinea is highlighted as a unique and fascinating travel destination.
• Travel is about connection and sharing experiences with others.
• Jorge emphasizes the importance of expert guides in enhancing travel experiences.
• The company has grown to offer 58 destinations over 10 years.
• Future plans include family trips tailored for children, enhancing the travel experience for families.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Jean Zunkel
President & Co Owner
BJ Adventures, Inc.

At the age of 13, I knew that I wanted to travel the world. I designed my life to make that possible. I was in the textile world for 45 years, married to an International Banker and then started a travel business. I have been to over 195 countries and have new ones on the agenda for every year going forward. I love art, food, great wine (first choice is South African), and meeting people all over the world. My daughter and her family come first in my life. She is now my business partner and we work really well together. At the age of 79 I bought a small heritage cottage in a village in South Africa and love spending time there. The balance is spent in Lamy, New Mexico or traveling. I write over 1,000 postcards each year to stay in touch with friends and people I have met all over the world.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Jean Zunkel, president and co-owner of BJ Adventures. Jean shares her inspiring journey from a small town in the South to becoming a successful travel entrepreneur. She discusses her early aspirations to travel, the evolution of her career from fashion merchandising to travel, and the challenges and joys of leading group trips. Jean emphasizes the importance of personal connections in travel, the role of her daughter Adina in the business, and the significance of creating memorable experiences for travelers. The conversation also touches on the necessity of travel insurance and the future of the travel industry.

takeaways

• Jean knew at 13 that she wanted to escape her small town.
• Traveling has been a lifelong passion for Jean, leading her to 197 countries.
• Her career in fashion merchandising opened doors to travel opportunities.
• BJ Adventures was born from a passion for travel and adventure.
• Mother-daughter bonding is a key aspect of their safari experiences.
• Reading the room is crucial for leading successful group trips.
• Personal connections enhance the travel experience for clients.
• Adina's analytical skills complement Jean's adventurous spirit in the business.
• Surprises in itineraries create memorable travel experiences.
• Travel insurance is essential for peace of mind during trips.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Erin Carey
Director
Roam Generation

Erin Carey is the founder of Roam Generation, a PR agency dedicated to helping brands and experts in the travel, adventure, and lifestyle sectors grow. Roam Generation was originally founded on a yacht as Erin and her family sailed around the world. Despite having no prior sailing experience, Erin and her husband and three boys pursued their dream of leaving the rat race, bought a yacht on the other side of the globe, and crossed the Atlantic Ocean just 18 months later.

With her adventurous spirit, lived experience, and sheer determination, Erin and her team share their clients' stories with media outlets in both Australia and the US. They boost brand awareness, elevate credibility, and generate a buzz, transforming brands from unseen to unstoppable through a fresh approach to traditional PR. Roam Generation’s mission is to share the gift of travel and adventure with as many people as possible because, for Erin and her team, travel has been life-changing.

summary
In this episode, Erin Carey shares her incredible journey from a suburban life in Australia to sailing around the world with her family. She discusses the pivotal moment that inspired their adventure, the challenges they faced while preparing for and living on a boat, and the lessons learned along the way. After returning to land, Erin reflects on the importance of community, the power of storytelling through PR, and how she built her own PR agency. The conversation emphasizes the significance of identity, taking action, and the belief that anyone can achieve their dreams with determination and the right mindset.

takeaways

• The decision to sail was inspired by a documentary.
• Both Erin and her husband were fully committed to the adventure.
• Preparation for sailing took over two years.
• Life on the boat was filled with challenges and learning experiences.
• Returning to land was an adjustment for the family.
• Community and connection are vital for travelers.
• PR is about sharing stories to grow brands.
• Building a PR agency was a journey of self-discovery.
• Everyone has a story worth sharing.
• Taking action and setting a date can lead to achieving dreams.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Exploration, Whales, Indigenous Communities

James Michael Dorsey
Author & Explorer

James Michael Dorsey is an award-winning author, explorer, and lecturer who has spent three decades researching remote tribal cultures in fifty-nine countries. His personal narratives give a small voice to those who otherwise would vanish from the earth with few people ever knowing they existed. His separate passion is working as a cetacean naturalist on whale boats in California and Mexico, a parallel career he has pursued for three decades. These combined journeys have resulted in over 800 published essays and articles and four books.

He returns annually to lecture about gray whales in the sanctuary lagoon of San Ignacio in Baja, Mexico, where he was the resident naturalist for twenty-two seasons. His latest book “The Lagoon,”is a definitive study of gray whales and the indigenous peoples of Baja where he was resident naturalist for 22 years.

He is a former contributing editor at Transitions Abroad and has written for United Airlines, The Christian Science Monitor, Lonely Planet, Perceptive Travel, California Literary Review, Colliers, Los Angeles Times, BBC Wildlife, BBC Travel, Geo Ex, Wanderlust, and Natural History, plus several African magazines.

He is a member of the American Cetacean Society, a fellow of the Explorer’s Club, and member emeritus of the Adventurer’s Club.

https://www.jamesmichaeldorsey.com/

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews renowned explorer and author James Michael Dorsey. They discuss Dorsey's journey from a mail carrier to an adventure traveler, his experiences with indigenous cultures, and the unique relationship between humans and whales in Baja. Dorsey shares captivating stories from his travels, including a harrowing encounter with a baboon in Tanzania and the challenges of leading group tours. The conversation also touches on the impact of tourism on indigenous communities and the importance of cultural preservation.

takeaways

• James Dorsey's journey into exploration began with a kayaking trip in British Columbia.
• Dorsey has spent decades documenting vanishing tribal cultures in Africa and Asia.
• The connection between whales and indigenous cultures is profound and intertwined.
• Traveling with a partner can enhance the adventure experience, but it also presents challenges.
• Dorsey's experiences in Ethiopia included a dangerous volcano expedition that resulted in a broken leg.
• Whale watching in Baja is unique because the whales actively seek human contact.
• The ethics of whale watching are complex, with differing opinions on human interaction with wildlife.
• Dorsey leads tours to Baja, but prefers to engage with participants rather than manage logistics.
• Cultural immersion is key to understanding and respecting indigenous societies.
• Dorsey is concerned about the over-reliance of indigenous communities on tourism for survival.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Africa, Safaris

Sara Kearns
Owner
Travels with Sara

I am a dedicated passionate seller of Africa. My highly regarded private safaris are customized, tailored to the client. I travel with them to give the very best safari experience. Always looking for new adventures in the splendor of Africa. I have also published a very successful guide book "Ultimate Sourcebook East Africa" and a memoir about me and my life.

https://sarassignaturesafaris.com/

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Sara Kearns, a seasoned travel expert and owner of Travels with Sara. They discuss Sara's journey into the world of travel, her early influences, and her extensive experiences in Africa. The conversation delves into the importance of the journey over the destination, the misconceptions surrounding travel in Africa, and the joy of sharing travel experiences with family and friends. Sara shares insights on customizing travel experiences for clients and addresses common safety concerns about traveling in Africa. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes, travel tips, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of exploration.

takeaways

• Travel is about the journey, not just the destination.
• Early influences shape our passions and careers.
• Personal experiences in travel lead to growth and understanding.
• Africa offers diverse travel experiences and adventures.
• Safety concerns about Africa are often based on misconceptions.
• Traveling with family can create lasting memories.
• Customizing travel experiences enhances enjoyment and connection.
• The importance of connecting with locals while traveling.
• Traveling can be a transformative experience for individuals.
• Adventure travel can be tailored to individual preferences.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide Travel, Travel Writing, Photography, Podcasting

Gary Arndt
Podcaster
Everything Everywhere Daily

Gary Arndt is the host of Everything Everywhere Daily.

Before launching Everything Everywhere Daily in July 2020, he spent the previous 13 years traveling around the world. His travels have taken him to over 200 countries/territories, and all 50 US states….twice!

His blog Everything Everywhere was named one of the Top 25 Blogs in the world by Time Magazine. He has also appeared in USA Today, the New York Times, the BBC, and National Geographic.

He is also one of the world’s most accomplished travel photographers. He was named Travel Photographer of the Year in 2014 by the Society of American Travel Writers and in 2013 & 2015 by the North American Travel Journalists Association. He is also a 3-time Lowell Thomas Award winner, which is considered to be the Pulitzer Prize for Travel Journalism.

Gary currently hosts and produces the “Everything Everywhere Daily” podcast. It features stories of people, places, and things covering a wide variety of topics, including history, science, and geography.

The podcast gets over one million monthly downloads and has accrued over 20,000,000 downloads since 2020.

https://everything-everywhere.com/

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins interviews Gary Arndt, a seasoned podcaster and extreme world traveler. They discuss Gary's journey from a childhood influenced by National Geographic to becoming a digital nomad and travel blogger. The conversation explores the impact of social media on travel trends, the psychology behind wanderlust, and the challenges of full-time travel, including burnout. Gary shares insights on the power of podcasting, the realities of starting a podcast, and offers advice for aspiring travelers. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of enjoying the journey and the evolving nature of travel in a post-pandemic world.

takeaways

• Gary's childhood was influenced by National Geographic, sparking his love for travel.
• He sold his home to travel around the world, embracing a digital nomad lifestyle.
• Social media has significantly impacted travel trends, often leading to overtourism.
• Travel is not just a vacation; it's a lifestyle choice that requires commitment.
• Podcasting allows for deeper connections with audiences compared to traditional media.
• Burnout is a real challenge for full-time travelers, as it's not always a vacation.
• Gary emphasizes the importance of enjoying the day-to-day grind of podcasting.
• He encourages aspiring travelers to take at least one extended trip in their lives.
• The average podcast listener spends significantly more time engaged than website visitors.
• Travel can be more affordable when you eliminate the costs of maintaining a home.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Colombian Amazon, Indigenous Communities, Ecotourism

Maria Samper
Co-Owner
Calanoa Amazonas

Maria 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/

summary
In 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.

takeaways

• Calanoa 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 Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Women's Group & Independent Travel

Doni Belau
Founder & CEO
Girls' Guide to the World

Doni 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/

summary
In 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.

takeaways

• Doni 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 Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.