What Could Go Right?

Erik Orton + Emily Orton

Living Boldly On and Off the Water What if the life you want is waiting on the other side of one brave decision? On What Could Go Right? you’ll discover how to face fear, take meaningful risks, and step into deeper connection, adventure, and a more intentional life. Hosted by lifelong explorers and the founders of The Awesome Factory, we don’t just talk about adventure — we practice it, inviting you into playful, guided sailing experiences around the world, where growth happens through laughter, learning, and shared moments of awe. Each week, we’ll help you trade 'what could go wrong?' for a far more energizing question: What could go right?

  1. 29 Jul

    Ep 162 How to Stop Overthinking Your Next Sailing Trip

    Have you ever felt like one forgotten detail could ruin the vacation you've been dreaming about for months? When time off is precious and travel is a big investment, it's easy to let the pressure of getting everything "just right" steal the joy before your adventure even begins. In this episode, we explore why preparation sometimes turns into perfectionism—and how to leave home with more excitement and less stress. Whether you're planning your first beginner sailing adventure, one of our sailing trips, or your own dream vacation, you'll discover simple ways to quiet the mental load, let go of the impossible standard of a "perfect" trip, and protect the gift of anticipation. Because the best adventures don't belong to the best planners. They belong to the people who are willing to live boldly, stay curious, and trust themselves to enjoy whatever unfolds. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rate. Review. Subscribe.   Try Living on a Sailboat for a Week:   No experience required—and yes, you’ll take the helm. Not a party charter. Not a certification course. A small-group, hands-on sailing experience that’s been called the “unicorn of sailing trips.” See if it’s your kind of adventure: Sail with us. Erik + Emily Memoirs: Seven at Sea: Why a New York City Family Cast Off Convention For A Life-Changing Year On A Sailboat  Knock: The Spiritual Journey of a Door-to-Door Salesman Connect with Erik + Emily: Email Subscribe to Encouragement Youtube Like, Comment, Subscribe Instagram  Facebook

  2. 15 Jul

    Ep 160 From Tourist to Contributor: A New Way to Experience Travel with Christopher Hill

    This episode explores how meaningful travel—from sailing trips to impact-driven experiences—can transform not just the places you visit, but who you become.  Meet Christopher Hill, founder of Hands Up Holidays, who introduces a different kind of travel—one that blends adventure, connection, and meaningful contribution.  From building homes in South Africa to creating life-changing experiences for families around the world, Christopher shares how travel can go beyond sightseeing and become something transformative. If you’ve ever considered sailing trips, beginner sailing trips, or simply want a more meaningful way to explore the world, this conversation will expand what’s possible. Because the best trips don’t just show you new places—they change how you show up in the world. Hands Up Holidays: https://handsupholidays.com/destinations/ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rate. Review. Subscribe.   Try Living on a Sailboat for a Week:   No experience required—and yes, you’ll take the helm. Not a party charter. Not a certification course. A small-group, hands-on sailing experience that’s been called the “unicorn of sailing trips.” See if it’s your kind of adventure: Sail with us. Erik + Emily Memoirs: Seven at Sea: Why a New York City Family Cast Off Convention For A Life-Changing Year On A Sailboat  Knock: The Spiritual Journey of a Door-to-Door Salesman Connect with Erik + Emily: Email Subscribe to Encouragement Youtube Like, Comment, Subscribe Instagram  Facebook

  3. 1 Jul

    Ep 158 He Let a Beginner Sail a 47-Foot Boat – What Great Captains Know with Matt Holt

    The first time Erik took the helm of a 47-foot sailboat, he was heading straight for another boat.  No panic. No yelling. Just a calm voice beside him: “Maybe turn a few degrees to starboard…” That voice belonged to Matt Holt—our sailing instructor, and one of our greatest mentors. In this episode, you'll hear what makes a truly great captain—not just on the water, but in life. From teaching teenagers at sea to building a life in the British Virgin Islands, Matt shares the philosophy that’s shaped thousands of sailors (including us). You’ll walk away thinking differently about leadership, confidence, and what it really means to guide others. Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do… is stay calm. Stay at Matt Holt's villa on Tortola, British Virgin Islands https://www.seachangebvi.com/ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rate. Review. Subscribe.   Try Living on a Sailboat for a Week:   No experience required—and yes, you’ll take the helm. Not a party charter. Not a certification course. A small-group, hands-on sailing experience that’s been called the “unicorn of sailing trips.” See if it’s your kind of adventure: Sail with us. Erik + Emily Memoirs: Seven at Sea: Why a New York City Family Cast Off Convention For A Life-Changing Year On A Sailboat  Knock: The Spiritual Journey of a Door-to-Door Salesman Connect with Erik + Emily: Email Subscribe to Encouragement Youtube Like, Comment, Subscribe Instagram  Facebook

About

Living Boldly On and Off the Water What if the life you want is waiting on the other side of one brave decision? On What Could Go Right? you’ll discover how to face fear, take meaningful risks, and step into deeper connection, adventure, and a more intentional life. Hosted by lifelong explorers and the founders of The Awesome Factory, we don’t just talk about adventure — we practice it, inviting you into playful, guided sailing experiences around the world, where growth happens through laughter, learning, and shared moments of awe. Each week, we’ll help you trade 'what could go wrong?' for a far more energizing question: What could go right?