Adventure Travel Podcast - Big World Made Small

Jason Elkins - Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast
  • 4.8 (19)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, where we go far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruises to explore the really cool places, people, and activities that adventurous travelers crave. If your idea of a great vacation is sitting on a beach at an all-inclusive resort, you’re in the wrong place. However, if you’re like me, and a beach resort vacation sounds like torture, stick around. You’ve found your tribe. My name is Jason Elkins, and as an adventure travel marketing consultant and tour operator myself, I am on a mission to impact the lives of adventure travelers, the tour operators they hire, and the communities that host them, creating deeply meaningful experiences that make this big world feel just a bit smaller. Are you ready to discover your next great adventure, whether that looks something like climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa, SCUBA diving in the South Pacific, or hot air ballooning in Turkey?  Then you’ll be happy to know that each episode of the Big World Made Small Podcast features a fascinating interview with an adventure travel expert that has agreed to share, with us, their own personal stories, favorite adventure destinations, and even some incredibly helpful tips and tricks they’ve learned while in the field. I trust that by the end of each episode you’ll feel like booking a ticket to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of these amazing places, and getting to know the incredible people that live there. I’ll be your guide as we explore this amazing planet and its people on the Big World Made Small podcast. I am a former US Army paratrooper, third generation commercial hot air balloon pilot, paramotor pilot, advanced open water SCUBA diver, and ex-Montana fly fishing guide and lodge manager. I have managed boutique adventure tour operation businesses in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, off-shore in Belize, the Adirondacks in New York, and the desert of Arizona. I also spent nearly a decade with Orvis International Travel, leading a talented team of tour operation experts, putting together and hosting amazing fly fishing and adventure travel excursions around the world. I have tapped into my experience and network of travel pros to put together a weekly series of exclusive expert interviews that I am excited to share with you. For the last couple of years I have lived a fully nomadic lifestyle, feeding my passion for exploration, creating amazing adventures, and meeting some of the most fascinating people along the way. I record every episode while traveling, so in a sense you’ll be joining me on my journey. Let’s discover some great adventures together and make this big world feel just a bit smaller. And, don’t forget to take a quick trip over to our website at bigworldmadesmall.com and join our adventure travel community, where you’ll benefit from new episode announcements, exclusive adventure travel opportunities, and special access to the experts you’ve met on the show. You can also follow us on social media, using the links in the show notes below. And, if you’re getting value out of the show please help us grow by sharing it with your friends, family, and anyone else you know that wants to get far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruise ships, the next time they travel. I’ll publish another episode soon. Until then, keep exploring. It’s the best way to make a big world feel just a bit smaller. https://bigworldmadesmall.com

  1. Adventure Travel with Dimitry Elias Léger - Author of Death of the Soccer God & God Loves Haiti

    2d ago

    Adventure Travel with Dimitry Elias Léger - Author of Death of the Soccer God & God Loves Haiti

    Guest Bio Dimitry Elias Léger is an award-nominated novelist whose work blends global storytelling with deeply human themes of identity, resilience, and belonging. A finalist for the PEN Open Book Award, his writing has appeared in leading publications including The New York Times, Time, Fortune, Granta, The Miami Herald, Literary Hub, and The Millions. Before focusing on fiction, Léger built a career in international affairs, studying geopolitics at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and spending a decade advising the United Nations. His work took him across regions facing political instability, humanitarian crises, and cultural transformation—experiences that now inform the emotional depth and global perspective of his novels. Drawing inspiration from his Haitian roots and a life lived across continents, Léger splits his time between Brooklyn, Geneva, and Martinique. His books, including God Loves Haiti and Death of the Soccer God, explore the intersection of personal stories and historical forces, often set against vivid international backdrops. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Dimitry about his journey from global humanitarian work to becoming an internationally recognized novelist. Dimitry shares how his early experiences—growing up between cultures and later working with the United Nations—shaped his worldview and ultimately influenced the stories he felt compelled to tell. The conversation dives into the origins of his first novel, inspired by his time in Haiti following the devastating 2010 earthquake. Rather than focusing solely on tragedy, Dimitry chose to explore the unexpected presence of love, humor, and human connection in the aftermath of disaster. That same lens carries into his latest work, Death of the Soccer God, a story rooted in migration, identity, and the global journey of a Haitian athlete navigating life between countries and cultures. Along the way, Dimitry reflects on the creative process, the realities of life as a writer, and the personal sacrifices that often come with pursuing meaningful work. The episode also explores how travel, displacement, and distance from home can sharpen one’s sense of identity—and why some of the most powerful stories emerge when we are far outside our comfort zones. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 32m
  2. Adventure Travel with Samrawit Moges - Travel Ethiopia

    Jun 3

    Adventure Travel with Samrawit Moges - Travel Ethiopia

    Guest Bio Samrawit Moges is the Founder and CEO of Travel Ethiopia, a private, eco-conscious tour and safari company established in 1994. With a career in Ethiopian tourism that stretches back to 1981, she has spent decades helping travelers discover the many dimensions of Ethiopia, from its historic landmarks and cultural traditions to its wildlife, landscapes, and living heritage. She built Travel Ethiopia from a small operation with just a few employees and vehicles into a respected tourism company with a team of more than 40 trained professionals. Samrawit is especially known for her leadership in creating meaningful travel experiences and for her commitment to tourism that reflects both the richness of Ethiopia’s past and the realities of its present. She is also a passionate advocate for women in tourism. Under her leadership, Travel Ethiopia became known for empowering women in the industry, including hiring female guides and tour consultants. Deeply committed to Ethiopia’s environment, wildlife, and community development, Samrawit brings both vision and long-standing expertise to every journey her company creates. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Samrawit about her remarkable path into tourism and her mission to help more travelers see Ethiopia in a fuller, more informed way. Their conversation explores how outdated global perceptions have shaped the way many people think about the country, and why Samrawit believes Ethiopia deserves far more attention as a destination for history, culture, wildlife, food, and deeply human travel experiences. Samrawit shares how she founded Travel Ethiopia during a period of major change in the country and how her own story was shaped by family, education, and resilience. She reflects on growing up in a large family, moving often as a child, studying journalism, entering tourism through government service, and eventually building her own company. Along the way, she discusses her commitment to women’s empowerment in the travel industry and the importance of building trust with international partners and travelers. The episode also becomes an invitation to experience Ethiopia beyond the headlines. Samrawit highlights the country’s UNESCO sites, endemic wildlife, distinctive calendar, coffee heritage, cuisine, and culture of hospitality. From shared meals and injera to Addis Ababa’s role as an air hub and conference destination, she paints a vivid picture of a country that offers far more depth and variety than many outsiders realize. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 10m
  3. Adventure Travel with Julie Fishman - Adventures Overland

    May 30

    Adventure Travel with Julie Fishman - Adventures Overland

    Guest Bio Julie Fishman is the Partner and General Manager for the U.S. at Adventures Overland, where she is leading the expansion of guided driving expeditions for American travelers. With more than 25 years of experience in corporate leadership, Julie built her career around delivering exceptional customer experiences—an approach she now brings to the world of adventure travel. Her passion for exploration began early, shaped by immersive international travel and a lifelong curiosity about the world. Today, she combines that global perspective with hands-on experience as an off-road enthusiast and active member of a 4×4 community. Through her work, she helps travelers experience remote destinations in a unique way—behind the wheel, in small groups, and fully supported by expert logistics. Julie is driven by the moments that surprise and delight her guests, constantly striving to exceed expectations and create meaningful, shared experiences. By introducing Adventures Overland to the U.S. market, she is opening the door for more travelers to discover the joy of the journey—not just the destination. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Julie about her journey from corporate executive to adventure travel leader—and how she’s helping bring a completely new style of travel to the U.S. market. Julie shares how Adventures Overland creates fully supported, small-group driving expeditions across some of the most remote and culturally rich regions in the world. From navigating the deserts of Morocco to crossing the Mongolian steppe, these trips allow travelers to take the wheel while leaving the logistics to a highly experienced team. The result is a stress-free road trip that blends adventure, culture, and connection. The conversation also dives into Julie’s personal story—from early life-changing travel experiences to building a career in tech and marketing, and ultimately finding her way back to travel in a meaningful way. Along the way, she reflects on leadership, mindset, and the power of choosing a path that aligns with both passion and purpose. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    57 min
  4. Adventure Travel with Andrew Lamb - Wales Outdoors

    May 27

    Adventure Travel with Andrew Lamb - Wales Outdoors

    Guest Bio Andrew Lamb is the founder of Wales Outdoors, a premier guided hiking and touring company showcasing the landscapes, history, and hidden gems of Wales. With more than 30 years of experience as an outdoor professional, Andrew began his journey pioneering mountain bike guiding in the Brecon Beacons before evolving his business into a full-service adventure travel operation focused on immersive walking tours. A certified Mountain Leader and Green Badge Tourist Guide, Andrew combines deep local knowledge with formal training to deliver meaningful, responsible travel experiences. His work is rooted in sustainability and a passion for connecting visitors to Wales in an authentic way. Beyond guiding, Andrew has played an active role in shaping regional tourism, contributing to environmental initiatives, leading community programs, and supporting collaboration across the outdoor industry. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to the outdoors, education, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression on travelers while protecting the landscapes they explore. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Andrew Lamb, founder of Wales Outdoors, about building a decades-long career in adventure tourism and the evolution of travel in Wales. Andrew shares how his early experiences in outdoor education shaped his path into guiding, eventually leading him to launch one of Wales’ most established hiking and touring companies. He reflects on the shift from multi-activity adventure offerings to a more focused, sustainable model centered on guided hikes and cultural tours, as well as the impact of technology in making independent travel and small-group experiences more accessible. The conversation also explores changing traveler behavior, from the rise of international visitors and content creators to the challenges of overcrowding at popular destinations. Andrew offers a thoughtful perspective on sustainable tourism, guiding philosophy, and how operators can balance business success with environmental responsibility and meaningful guest experiences. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 24m
  5. Adventure Travel with Matt Hoffman-Beals - Breaking Away Adventures

    May 23

    Adventure Travel with Matt Hoffman-Beals - Breaking Away Adventures

    Guest Bio Matt Hoffman-Beals is the founder of Breaking Away Adventures, an experience-driven motorcycle touring company focused on community, exploration, and personal growth. An adventure-driven entrepreneur and lifelong traveler, his journey has taken him from a career in hospitality and event management to the open road on two wheels. After more than 20 years creating memorable experiences in fast-paced environments, Matt shifted his focus toward a life centered on exploration, connection, and freedom. Drawing from a nomadic upbringing and a deep love for motorcycles, he built Breaking Away Adventures to bring riders together through off-road journeys designed to challenge, inspire, and connect. His approach blends adventure with inclusivity, encouraging riders of all backgrounds to discover confidence, connection, and joy on the road less traveled. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Matt about the path that led him from a life in hospitality to building a purpose-driven motorcycle adventure company. Matt shares how his early experiences with travel and discovery shaped his worldview and ultimately pushed him to pursue a more adventurous, community-focused lifestyle. The conversation explores how Breaking Away Adventures goes beyond traditional motorcycle touring by emphasizing inclusivity, shared experience, and personal growth. Matt discusses the power of bringing people together in challenging outdoor environments, where riders not only explore rugged terrain but also form meaningful connections and build confidence. He also opens up about the mental health benefits of adventure travel and the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcomed and supported. Listeners will also gain insight into what it takes to start and grow an adventure-based business, as Matt reflects on the importance of authenticity, passion, and starting small. His story offers both inspiration and practical perspective for anyone looking to turn their love of adventure into something bigger. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 19m
  6. Adventure Travel with Yvonne Halling - Bed & Breakfast Coach

    May 20

    Adventure Travel with Yvonne Halling - Bed & Breakfast Coach

    Guest Bio Yvonne Halling is a hospitality business coach, consultant, and founder of Bed and Breakfast Coach, where she helps independent accommodation owners transform the way they run and grow their businesses. After spending 17 years operating her own bed and breakfast in France’s Champagne region, Yvonne evolved what began as a modest side venture into a highly profitable operation generating over €100,000 annually from just four rooms—without relying on online travel agencies. Today, she works with hospitality entrepreneurs around the world through her B&B Money Maker Business Transformation Program, guiding them to increase revenue, reduce dependency on third-party platforms, and create more freedom in their day-to-day operations. Her clients regularly see significant growth while simplifying their workload and strengthening direct relationships with their guests. Yvonne is a multi-award-winning hospitality professional known for her practical, results-driven approach. She is passionate about restoring independence to small business owners, helping them reclaim control of their bookings, and positioning their properties as vital hubs within their local communities. Through her work, she empowers hosts to embrace modern tools while staying rooted in authentic, human-centered hospitality. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Yvonne about her evolution from running a small bed and breakfast in France to becoming a global coach for independent hospitality entrepreneurs. She shares how she transformed her own property into a high-performing business without relying on online travel agencies, proving that small operations can thrive with the right strategy. The conversation dives into the growing reliance on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, and how that dependence can erode both profit margins and brand identity. Yvonne explains why direct bookings are essential for long-term sustainability and how business owners can regain control of their customer relationships. She also emphasizes the importance of authentic connection in hospitality, showing how personalized guest experiences and strong ties to the local community can set independent businesses apart. This episode offers practical insights for hosts who want to build a more profitable, meaningful, and self-directed business. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 11m
  7. Adventure Travel with Mark Phillips - Nomad Stays

    May 16

    Adventure Travel with Mark Phillips - Nomad Stays

    Guest Bio Mark Phillips is the Founder of Nomad Stays, a platform created to help digital nomads find comfortable, reliable accommodations built for long-term remote work and travel. A tech-driven entrepreneur and global business leader, Mark has spent years building ventures and relationships at the intersection of technology, hospitality, and international travel. Across an entrepreneurial career spanning tech and travel, Mark has explored more than 100 countries and developed an unusually broad global network—connecting with everyone from local traders in remote regions to senior business and government leaders. That experience has shaped his understanding of what modern travelers need when they’re living and working on the road. Since 2015, Mark has lived as a full-time digital nomad, running businesses while traveling continuously and relying on remote collaboration as the norm. Through Nomad Stays, he’s focused on making long-term travel feel more stable and livable by helping nomads find spaces that support productivity, comfort, and a genuine sense of home. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Mark Phillips about the fast-growing digital nomad lifestyle and the hospitality gaps that many remote workers encounter when they travel long-term. Mark shares what inspired him to create Nomad Stays and why traditional short-stay accommodations often miss the mark for nomads who need reliable Wi-Fi, functional workspaces, and the comforts that make a place feel livable for weeks or months at a time. He also explains how longer stays change pricing, expectations, and the kinds of services that hosts should consider offering. The conversation goes beyond logistics into the lifestyle itself—how technology enables full-time travel, why community matters when you’re constantly on the move, and what it takes to stay adaptable and healthy while building a location-independent life around the world. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 26m
  8. Adventure Travel with Lindsay Nieminen - Amman Food Tours

    May 13

    Adventure Travel with Lindsay Nieminen - Amman Food Tours

    Guest Bio Lindsay Nieminen is the co-founder and owner of Amman Food Tours, a culinary experience company based in Jordan’s capital, and the travel writer behind the blog Carpe Diem OUR Way. She has been exploring and documenting Jordan since 2016. After repeatedly returning to the same local cafés, bakeries, and family-run restaurants in Amman, she began envisioning a way for visitors to experience the city through its food and the people who make it. That vision became reality in 2022 when she and her Jordanian partner launched Amman Food Tours, creating immersive culinary experiences that introduce travelers to the stories and traditions behind Jordanian cuisine. Through her work, Lindsay focuses on fostering meaningful cultural exchange while supporting greater opportunities for women within Jordan’s tourism industry. Her partnership with local guide Jumana helps bring this mission to life, giving guests an authentic look at Amman’s vibrant food culture while amplifying voices that are often underrepresented in the sector. Show Summary In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Lindsay about her journey from a traditional corporate career into the world of travel writing and tourism entrepreneurship in Jordan. What began as a passion for exploring local restaurants and sharing stories online eventually evolved into building a food tour company dedicated to connecting travelers with the culture and communities of Amman. Lindsay reflects on how travel reshaped her personal and professional life, opening the door to new opportunities and relationships while inspiring her to create experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. She also shares the personal stories behind launching Amman Food Tours and the lessons she learned while building a business in a foreign country. The conversation also explores the broader cultural context of travel in Jordan, including gender dynamics within the tourism industry, how local communities navigate global and regional challenges, and what travelers should know about visiting the Middle East today. Through food, storytelling, and community partnerships, Lindsay’s work highlights the powerful role travel can play in fostering connection and understanding. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations. 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 on our website.

    1h 33m
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4.8
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, where we go far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruises to explore the really cool places, people, and activities that adventurous travelers crave. If your idea of a great vacation is sitting on a beach at an all-inclusive resort, you’re in the wrong place. However, if you’re like me, and a beach resort vacation sounds like torture, stick around. You’ve found your tribe. My name is Jason Elkins, and as an adventure travel marketing consultant and tour operator myself, I am on a mission to impact the lives of adventure travelers, the tour operators they hire, and the communities that host them, creating deeply meaningful experiences that make this big world feel just a bit smaller. Are you ready to discover your next great adventure, whether that looks something like climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa, SCUBA diving in the South Pacific, or hot air ballooning in Turkey?  Then you’ll be happy to know that each episode of the Big World Made Small Podcast features a fascinating interview with an adventure travel expert that has agreed to share, with us, their own personal stories, favorite adventure destinations, and even some incredibly helpful tips and tricks they’ve learned while in the field. I trust that by the end of each episode you’ll feel like booking a ticket to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of these amazing places, and getting to know the incredible people that live there. I’ll be your guide as we explore this amazing planet and its people on the Big World Made Small podcast. I am a former US Army paratrooper, third generation commercial hot air balloon pilot, paramotor pilot, advanced open water SCUBA diver, and ex-Montana fly fishing guide and lodge manager. I have managed boutique adventure tour operation businesses in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, off-shore in Belize, the Adirondacks in New York, and the desert of Arizona. I also spent nearly a decade with Orvis International Travel, leading a talented team of tour operation experts, putting together and hosting amazing fly fishing and adventure travel excursions around the world. I have tapped into my experience and network of travel pros to put together a weekly series of exclusive expert interviews that I am excited to share with you. For the last couple of years I have lived a fully nomadic lifestyle, feeding my passion for exploration, creating amazing adventures, and meeting some of the most fascinating people along the way. I record every episode while traveling, so in a sense you’ll be joining me on my journey. Let’s discover some great adventures together and make this big world feel just a bit smaller. And, don’t forget to take a quick trip over to our website at bigworldmadesmall.com and join our adventure travel community, where you’ll benefit from new episode announcements, exclusive adventure travel opportunities, and special access to the experts you’ve met on the show. You can also follow us on social media, using the links in the show notes below. And, if you’re getting value out of the show please help us grow by sharing it with your friends, family, and anyone else you know that wants to get far beyond the beaches, resort hotels, and cruise ships, the next time they travel. I’ll publish another episode soon. Until then, keep exploring. It’s the best way to make a big world feel just a bit smaller. https://bigworldmadesmall.com

Information

  • Creator
    Jason Elkins - Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    179
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Adventure Travel Podcast - Big World Made Small
  • Show Website
    Adventure Travel Podcast - Big World Made Small

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