The Modern Explorer

Episode 15 - @wyattpshaffer

On this episode, I chat with Wyatt Shaffer, a talented photographer based in Florida, with an eye for everything from cityscapes to landscapes as well as some beautiful product work. He shares some stories of trips where there wasn't much of an agenda, except to go out and explore and see what catches his eye, a mindset I think a lot of photographers these days could take note of. We also talk about the importance of not putting too much pressure on ourselves as creatives and enjoying the process for what it's worth. Take each day as it is and make the most of it. Go check out his work on instagram @wyattpshaffer where you can be directed to his other pages and projects as well. 

Episode 14 - @chandler_photos33

After a bit of a hiatus, I am back with a new episode and stoked for this one. Chandler and I have been chatting for a while, but with the fall season keeping both of us busy it took some time to get this one lined up. We are quick to get into how covid inspired him to pick up a camera and start exploring more of where he grew up in the state of Utah. He shares how the hobby quickly became a passion and soon a career. We talk about the photography community and the great people that are a part of it, how quickly friendships are made through it, and how instagram isn't so bad after all. He discusses his mindset for living a life true to him in his early days as opposed to after retirement and the adventures it helped bring him on. As the original founder of the Real Bushwhackers, he encourages our audience to check out their page and youtube and join a community of incredible outdoors people looking to share the love for the beautiful landscapes we have access to. Also go check out some of his incredible photos at @chandler_photos33 on IG.

Episode 13 - @tdcameraman

Stoked to be back with a new episode with a new guest, Taylor Dalton. He shared some amazing stories from traveling the country in a converted bus to jam-packed 24-hour adventures in the desert. His advice, not only for creators, but people in general looking to grow and live a life they can look back on and be proud of is worth the listen alone. Go follow along with his new adventures on instagram @tdcameraman 

Episode 12 - @_bcphotos

We are back with this in-person episode from Twin Lakes with some sage words from Brad Couture. I've been following Brad for quite a while and was stoked to finally meet him in person as we both were sending it around Colorado to catch the fall foliage. He has some of the most underrated photography work out there and also some mindsets that can be applicable to anyone, regardless of their occupation or hobby. Brad was coming to an end on his van life journey, at least for the time being, after spending 10 months on the road and had a lot to share about the experience that is worth the listen. 

Episode 11 - @embark.with.ember

In this episode, Madi shares how her love for photography has been with her since a child, yet has evolved over the years into what now is a love for wildlife photography. Among this and a few other experiences, she talks about the importance of being present in a world of social media, where our attention is constantly being pulled to other parts of the country or world. She also expresses the importance of focusing on our own paths instead of joining the game of comparison. Listen in for more details on how you can try to implement in your own life. 

Episode 10 - @roaddogtravel

The people you meet on your travels are what makes the trip and in some cases your life. This episode's guest, Luke Stankiewicz, can say that both were the case while working on the road, leading to him meeting his wife. Luke shares his story from initially traveling for work in the events industry to picking up his camera and honing the craft to share more of his life from the road. A fellow east-coaster, Luke eventually made the move out to Utah which he now calls home. He shares a message that everyone can take to heart while being outdoors, in having fun with it and not taking it too seriously no matter your motivation for being out there. 

Episode 9 - @bryce.docherty

Bryce was a pleasure to have on the show as he shared some incredible stories from his travels and some defining moments in his life that completely shifted his outlook. The lessons he describes from all of his experiences are ones that everyone can learn from and look to implement into their lives as well. It was cool to hear how he is bringing those lessons and mindsets to his work on a set of documentaries he is currently working on.  

Episode 8 - @thelukefurman

The positive energy from this episode is palpable. Luke brought some awesome experiences and mindsets to the stage and got me excited to go out, do some exploring, and keep living the life that is authentic to me. He shares how he took a complete career jump and how that, and his move from the Midwest out to Utah, has changed his life. Anyone I've talked to has shared how passionate Luke is about connecting people and rooting for everyone to find success. It was quickly apparent that he is one of the most selfless people I've met and a true gem of a person. I hope everyone who listens to this show has the chance to connect with him one day and feed off his energy. Please go give him some love and feel free to connect with him @thelukefurman

Episode 7 - @just_passinthrough

Grab some headphones and give this one all your attention. Justin has the most inspiring story I've heard on the show, countless lessons and mindsets, and the ability to tell some damn good stories. He shares memories from his childhood, spending time catching frogs in the woods until the sun went down, and some big life decisions that changed his whole trajectory. After overcoming drug addiction, Justin found his way back to the outdoors, now traveling full-time in his van capturing the most stunning landscapes you have ever seen. I left this conversation jacked up about what the future might hold for me and I hope the same goes for you. 

Episode 6 - @court.heseltine

This episode was a new one for the pod in many ways. To start, Courtney was the first nominated guest that I had never met prior to our conversation. On top of that, it was the first virtual conversation. With all that said, it was an incredible chat. Courtney clearly has been up to some awesome adventures and the excited energy she spoke of her trips with made it clear how passionate she was about the outdoors. She has a beautiful view on life and many insights that can be useful for anyone. Go follow along on her travels @court.heseltine on instagram and twitter.