Wild Chats with Ben Southall

Wild Earth Australia
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Join host Ben Southall for Wild Chats, a series that dives deep into the world of adventure. We bring you trail runners, hikers, travelers, and explorers sharing their most inspiring and wildest stories from around the globe. Whether you're chasing ultra-running dreams, planning your next big trek, or simply looking for a spark of adventure, Wild Chats delivers firsthand insights from those who live and breathe the outdoors. 🎙 New episodes every other Friday! Presented by Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia

  1. The Art of Vagabonding with Travel Legend Rolf Potts

    4D AGO

    The Art of Vagabonding with Travel Legend Rolf Potts

    In this conversation, Rolf Potts discusses the philosophy of minimalistic travel, emphasising the importance of traveling light and giving oneself permission to explore the world at any age. He shares insights on the evolution of travel storytelling, the value of experiences over material possessions, and the significance of intergenerational travel. Rolf also reflects on his journey as a travel writer, the impact of digital technology on storytelling, and the essential gear for modern travelers. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the joy of spontaneity and the richness of cultural interactions that come from embracing local culture. Listen now: Spotify, Apple, and more: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2018168/episodes/18467496 🌍 Follow Rolf's work: Website: https://rolfpotts.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rolfpotts/ 🎙️ Hosted by Ben Southall from: Best Life Adventures: https://bestlifeadventures.com/ Wild Earth Australia: https://www.wildearth.com.au/

    1h 7m
  2. 46,000 km, six continents and 38 countries on foot. Tom Turcich's World Walk

    12/24/2025

    46,000 km, six continents and 38 countries on foot. Tom Turcich's World Walk

    In this episode of Wild Chats, Ben Southall sits down with world walker Tom Turcich to unpack what it really takes to walk around the planet. After the sudden loss of a close friend as a teenager, Tom made a decision that would reshape his entire life: step out his front door and keep walking. Over seven years, Tom covered roughly 46,000 km across six continents and 38 countries, with an unexpected sidekick joining along the way, his rescue dog Savannah. Together they moved through deserts, mountains, megacities, border crossings, illness, loneliness, and the long, quiet stretches where the mind gets loud. Tom shares the moments that nearly ended the journey, the strangers who restored his faith in people, and why walking changes your relationship with fear, time, and home. The conversation also dives into the mindset of ultra-long adventures, the daily logistics no one talks about, and the lessons Tom carried back into normal life after doing something almost nobody has done. Listen now: Spotify, Apple, and more: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2018168/episodes/18409789 🌍 Follow Tom’s work Website: https://www.tomturcich.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theworldwalk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWorldWalk 📘 Tom’s book: The World Walk https://www.skyhorsepublishing.com/9781510779013/the-world-walk/ 🎙️ Hosted by Ben Southall from: Best Life Adventures: https://bestlifeadventures.com/ Wild Earth Australia: https://www.wildearth.com.au/

    1h 11m
  3. From Pilot to Survivalist: Outback Mike's Story

    12/11/2025

    From Pilot to Survivalist: Outback Mike's Story

    In this episode, Ben Southall sits down with “Outback Mike” from Alone Australia to unpack how a kid obsessed with adventure became a survival instructor, and why he always planned to trade jets for the bush. Mike shares what he has learned from First Nations people about living with Country rather than on it, and how that wisdom guided his solo expeditions through the Australian Outback and along the Great Barrier Reef. He talks us through the 14 month grind of building a dugout canoe by hand, the relentless repairs and close calls at sea, and what it really takes to navigate one of the most fragile marine environments on Earth. Along the way, Mike opens up about the emotional toll of his journey, the grief he felt as he confronted Australia’s history, and why genuine cultural connection is essential if we are ever going to resolve our national identity crisis. The conversation also dives into the power of authentic storytelling, the realities of filming your own survival for YouTube and Alone, and how online platforms are helping a new generation of adventurers share raw, unfiltered stories from the edge of the map. Get his book: Modern Day Castaway here. 🎙️ Hosted by Ben Southall from Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia. ⛺️ To follow Mike's adventures check out outbackmike.com and reach out to him at @outbackmike on Insta, TikTok and YouTube.

    1h 18m
  4. Coree Woltering: The Trials of the Trail

    10/14/2025

    Coree Woltering: The Trials of the Trail

    In this episode of Wild Chats, Ben Southall sits down with ultra runner Coree Woltering, whose athletic journey has taken him from the world of triathlons to the heart of the ultra running community. Coree shares how his passion for the trails led him to pursue Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempts and endurance challenges that push both body and mind. He opens up about his Ice Age Trail FKT—the obstacles he faced, the lessons learned about resilience, and the powerful role of community support throughout the journey. They dive into the mental and physical preparation behind ultra events, the balance between competition and enjoyment, and the deeper meaning Coree finds in running for a cause. He also reflects on the simplicity and beauty of trail running, his close collaboration with sponsors, and his excitement for his upcoming race, the Blackhall 100. Looking ahead, Coree shares his plans to return to shorter distances to sharpen his performance, all while staying grounded in the sense of connection that fuels his love for the sport. This is a conversation about resilience, purpose, and the unbreakable spirit of the ultra running community. 🎙️ Hosted by Ben Southall from Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia.

    59 min
  5. From Local to Global: Buha Bali’s Ultra Running Journey

    10/02/2025

    From Local to Global: Buha Bali’s Ultra Running Journey

    In this episode of Wild Chats, Ben Southall sits down with ultra runner Buha Bali, whose journey has taken her from local races in Australia to competing on the world stage at the prestigious UTMB in Chamonix.  Buha opens up about the highs and lows of ultra running—how training, community support, and sheer determination play a role in preparing for some of the toughest endurance events on the planet. They dive into the mental and physical challenges of racing in the Alps, the importance of gear and technique, and the transformative moments found on the trails of the Pyrenees and beyond.  She reflects on the pre-race atmosphere, the nerves before the start line, and the resilience needed to overcome both physical and mental hurdles mid-race. Buha also shares her aspirations for future adventures and the lessons she’s carrying forward from Chamonix.  This is a conversation about perseverance, growth, and the love of pushing limits in the wild.   Hosted by Ben Southall from Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia.  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the World of Ultra Running 02:43 The Journey to UTMB: From Local to Global 05:44 The Competitive Mindset: Embracing Opportunities 08:22 Preparing for the UTMB: Training and Challenges 11:30 The Role of Community in Trail Running 14:20 Training for the Alps: Overcoming Elevation Challenges 17:11 The Importance of Technique: Using Poles Effectively 20:01 Building a Support Network: The Role of Mentors 22:44 Choosing the Right Race: Finding Your Sweet Spot 25:44 Experiencing the UTMB: The Atmosphere and Community 28:52 Reality Check: Training in the Pyrenees 32:46 Facing the Challenges of Altitude 36:09 Understanding the Mountain's Power 38:02 Experiencing the Terrain and Conditions 39:45 Arrival in Chamonix: The Calm Before the Race 42:15 The Build-Up to the Race Day 47:07 Nerves and Pre-Race Rituals 50:41 The Journey to the Start Line 52:23 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Growth 55:33 The Emotional Journey of Racing 59:27 Overcoming Adversity in Extreme Conditions 01:05:04 The Finish Line: Triumph and Reflection 01:09:16 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Training

    1h 16m
  6. Karla Pound - Challenges & Rewards of Reality TV Survival Shows

    08/07/2025

    Karla Pound - Challenges & Rewards of Reality TV Survival Shows

    Join Ben Southall as he delves into the exhilarating world of reality TV survival shows with adventurer Karla Pound. Discover the intense challenges and unexpected rewards of participating in shows like "Alone" and "Million Dollar Island." From battling hunger and isolation to forming lifelong friendships, Karla shares her unique insights and experiences. Tune in to explore the raw authenticity and personal growth that come with surviving in the wild. Don't miss this captivating episode of Wild Earth Australia's Wild Chats!

    1h 3m
  7. Walking the World with Alex Campbell

    08/06/2025

    Walking the World with Alex Campbell

    In this episode of Wild Chats, Ben Southall sits down with long-distance adventurer Alex Campbell, who’s been walking around the world for over two years. From the steppes of Central Asia to the roads of South America, Alex opens up about the mindset needed for such an epic journey and why packing light is more than just a gear decision. They dive into the mental and physical challenges of life on foot, the kindness of strangers, and how choosing the right season can be a lifesaver. Alex shares how documenting his walk on social media has helped build community and amplify his mission: raising funds for the Fred Hollows Foundation to end avoidable blindness. This is a conversation about exploration, personal growth, and the power of saying yes to the unknown. Connect with Alex on Instagram @alexander_campbell  Donate to his Fred Hollows fund. Find out more about his adventures www.worldwalkexpedition.com Hosted by Ben Southall from Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adventure Walking 05:27 The Call of the Wild: Early Influences and Experiences 11:11 Inspiration from Other Adventurers 16:41 Gear Essentials for Long-Distance Walking 22:03 Planning the Journey: A Walk Through Australia 31:20 Cultural Experiences: Hospitality on the Road 40:07 Giving Back: The Fred Hollows Foundation 46:10 Balancing Work and Travel 50:46 The Pamir Highway Experience 57:11 Defining the Traveler's Identity

    1h 2m
  8. Lone Rider: Elspeth Beard’s Motorcycle Ride Around the World

    07/25/2025

    Lone Rider: Elspeth Beard’s Motorcycle Ride Around the World

    Before sat-nav, internet, and mobile phones, there was Elspeth Beard, a 23-year-old architecture student who set off to ride her motorcycle around the world. In this episode of Wild Chats, Elspeth shares the highs and lows of her pioneering solo journey across continents in the early 1980s. Host Ben Southall dives deep into Elspeth’s story: the spark that ignited her adventure, the obstacles she faced as a woman on the road, and the transformative encounters that shaped her perspective on life. From mechanical failures and border crossings to life lessons and cultural insights, Elspeth’s tales are equal parts grit and grace. She also reflects on how travel has changed over the decades, why embracing the unknown is vital, and how her epic ride influenced her work as an award-winning architect. If you’ve ever dreamt of hitting the road less traveled, this episode is your permission slip. Connect with Elspeth on Instagram @elspethbeard Check out Elspeth's website.  Hosted by Ben Southall from Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adventure and Exploration 06:35 The Spirit of Spontaneity in Travel 14:09 The Catalyst for a Global Journey 21:21 The Journey Begins: Setting Off on the Road 26:28 Encounters and Conversations on the Road 31:51 Challenges of the Outback Adventure 37:48 Navigating Through Australia and Beyond 45:48 Cultural Encounters: Riding Through India and Beyond 51:53 Navigating Iran: A Journey Through a Closed Country 01:00:37 Life After the Journey: New Beginnings and Challenges 01:07:01 The Evolution of Storytelling: From Diaries to Social Media

    1h 10m
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About

Join host Ben Southall for Wild Chats, a series that dives deep into the world of adventure. We bring you trail runners, hikers, travelers, and explorers sharing their most inspiring and wildest stories from around the globe. Whether you're chasing ultra-running dreams, planning your next big trek, or simply looking for a spark of adventure, Wild Chats delivers firsthand insights from those who live and breathe the outdoors. 🎙 New episodes every other Friday! Presented by Best Life Adventures & Wild Earth Australia

Information

  • Creator
    Wild Earth Australia
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wild Chats with Ben Southall
  • Show Website
    Wild Chats with Ben Southall

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