Area/Topic
United Kingdom, Career, Sustainable Tourism, B Corp, Human Connection

Claire Copeman
Co-founder
Adventure Tours UK

Born in the UK, Claire grew up in the rolling countryside of north west England, always outdoors and usually riding horses. After studying Equine Science at university, she set off backpacking around South East Asia and fell in love with travel - real travel. The kind of travel that gets you under the skin of a place, hanging out with the locals and learning as much about yourself as the place you’re in.

Returning to the UK she left the outdoors to pursue a corporate career in marketing. Realising how much she missed the outdoors and riding during this time, this is when Claire discovered a love for mountain biking in the hills of North Wales and how she met her husband.

England is Claire’s place of birth, Wales is her home and Scotland is her favourite escape, from the mountains of the Highlands to the beaches of the Outer Hebrides and everywhere in between. Always looking for adventure and new challenges, Claire has taken part in many long distance events around the UK, including Oxfam’s TrailWalker 100km charity hike in the South Downs, mountain biking across England on the famous Coast to Coast route, and a multi-activity race across across Scotland from Nairn to Glencoe.

Today she lives in the beautiful Welsh hills. Claire has left the corporate world behind, setting up Adventure Tours UK to pursue her love of welcoming like-minded people from around the world to explore the incredible wild spaces of the UK. In line with her own values, Adventure Tours UK has been committed to responsible travel from the outset, becoming the first UK inbound operator to carbon label their tours way back in 2020, and now proud to be a B Corp certified business.

https://adventuretoursuk.com/

Summary

Claire Copeman, co-founder of Adventure Tours UK, shares her journey into adventure tourism and highlights the beauty of Wales as a travel destination. She discusses the misconception about the weather in Wales and emphasizes the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities that make it a great place to visit. Claire also talks about the challenges of promoting Wales as a tourist destination and the need for more exposure and marketing. She shares her passion for creating tailor-made trips and the joy of connecting with people through shared experiences. Adventure Tours UK is a B Corp certified tour operator that focuses on providing genuine and authentic outdoor experiences in the UK. They are committed to working for the benefit of people and the planet, as well as profit. They prioritize connection and believe that shared experiences and connections with others are what make trips memorable. Adventure Tours UK offers a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, and they cater to both individual travelers and group tours. They also work with trade clients as a destination management company. Their goal is to put the UK on the global adventure travel map.

Takeaways

• Wales is a beautiful travel destination with stunning landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities.
• The weather in Wales is often misunderstood, but it offers pleasant and enjoyable conditions for outdoor adventures.
• Promoting Wales as a tourist destination is challenging due to limited funding and the dominance of London and other popular locations in the UK.
• Tailor-made trips provide a personalized and unique travel experience, allowing travelers to explore Wales at their o

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Transformational Travel, Sustainability

Mary Stange
Owner
Ponte Travels

My passion for world travel was first sparked through a study abroad semester in Limerick, Ireland when I was 19. Since then, I have traveled to numerous countries — many of those with my two kids by my side. A career serving in the U.S. Navy inspired me to seek an advanced degree in International Relations from American University with a focus in Development. My work since then has further instilled my characteristic global mindset and dedication to encourage others to experience the world first-hand and support local economies. After separating from the Navy in 2015, my family began a new life chapter traveling the world, allowing them the opportunity to live overseas in countries such as Armenia, Colombia, and Cyprus.

I believe in the transformative nature of travel; that experiencing the world with respect and humility develops our tolerance, empathy, and most of all understanding of the world and ourselves. I also believe in sustainable tourism; and that in order to be true global citizens, we must take care of the world around us including local communities, wildlife, and the environment. I am passionate about creating unforgettable trips for the constantly curious and allowing space for exploration and wonder.

https://www.pontetravels.com/

Summary
Mary Stange, owner of Ponte Travels, shares her travel experiences and how she got into the travel industry. Her love for travel began at a young age when her father, a merchant marine, would send trinkets and postcards from his travels. She later had the opportunity to study abroad in Ireland, which opened her eyes to living in a new country and experiencing different cultures. Mary then joined the Navy as an officer and had the chance to see the world during her deployments. After leaving the Navy, she and her husband decided to pursue a life of travel and adventure, joining the Foreign Service of the State Department. They lived in Armenia and Colombia, immersing themselves in the local cultures and exploring the countries. Despite the challenges of language barriers and mundane tasks like grocery shopping, Mary found joy in the adventure and the connections she made with people. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges, but they persevered and continued to embrace the travel lifestyle. Mary discusses her experiences living in different countries, including Colombia and Cyprus. She highlights the unique aspects of each place and the opportunities for exploration and growth. Mary also shares her journey of starting a travel business during the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges and successes she has encountered. She emphasizes the importance of travel and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences and cultures. Mary expresses her passion for the North Andes region, particularly Colombia, and her desire to showcase its beauty and diversity.

Takeaways

• Travel experiences can shape a person's perspective and inspire them to explore the world.
• Living in a new country provides a deeper understanding of different cultures and everyday life.
• Challenges like language barriers and mundane tasks can be part of the adventure and create unique experiences.
• The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges to travel, but it also provided opportunities for connection and resilience. Embrace new experiences and cultures through travel
• Start a travel business during challenging times by adapting and planning ahead
• Discover the beauty

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Latin America, Tourism Business

Staci Steele
Commercial Manager
SA Expeditions

Staci has dedicated a significant part of her life to globetrotting, especially across South America. She's embraced exploration not just as a hobby but as a disciplined endeavor to understand and facilitate connections between the English-speaking world and countless communities in South America.

Her journeys, which began with just a backpack and a sense of wanderlust, have evolved into a professional capacity for executing experiences that are as refined and remarkable as anyone else in her industry niche. Staci has been with SA Expeditions since 2012, and her journey has been one of growth and evolution, starting as a Destination Expert, advancing to Sales Manager, and now Commercial Manager overseeing global partnerships and destination development.

The economic impact of the travel services purchased for her clients reaches into the millions across the developing economies of Latin America and now expands worldwide. Countless guides, drivers, muleteers, rural communities, hotels, and national economies (to name just a few) have benefited from her daily and meticulous efforts.

https://www.saexpeditions.com/

Summary
In this episode, Jason Elkins interviews Staci Steele, the commercial manager of SA Expeditions. They discuss Staci's role as a commercial manager and her responsibilities in managing relationships with partners and overseeing the sales team. They also talk about the expansion of SA Expeditions worldwide and the meaning behind the company's name. Staci shares her travel inspirations and how she developed a passion for learning languages, particularly Spanish. They discuss the importance of language in understanding different cultures and connecting with people on a deeper level. Staci also shares her experience of living in the US and the decision to move back to Latin America. In this conversation, Staci Steele, Commercial Manager at SA Expeditions, discusses the importance of building relationships with local communities and guides in the travel industry. She emphasizes the value of personal connections and the impact they have on the overall travel experience. Staci also highlights the company's commitment to responsible tourism and supporting local communities. She shares insights into the hiring process at SA Expeditions and the qualities they look for in destination experts. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the challenges and pressures faced by travel professionals and the satisfaction that comes from creating memorable experiences for clients.

Takeaways

• The role of a commercial manager involves managing relationships with partners and overseeing the sales team.
• SA Expeditions has expanded worldwide and is not limited to South America, despite the name.
• Learning a language, such as Spanish, allows for a deeper understanding of different cultures and better connections with people.
• Living in different countries can provide unique experiences and perspectives.
• Moving back to Latin America allowed Staci and her family to be closer to their roots and experience a different lifestyle. Building relationships with local communities and guides is crucial in the travel industry
• Personal connections enhance the overall travel experience
• SA Expeditions is committed to responsible tourism and supporting local communities
• The hiring process at SA Expeditions focuses on travel experience, sales background, and language skills

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Extreme Adventure, Storm Chasing, The Explorers Club, Nature Documentary Filmmaking

George Kourounis
Explorer In Residence
Royal Canadian Geographical Society

George Kourounis has a passion for the world’s extremes. As an explorer, storm chaser, TV presenter, and Explorer-In-Residence for the RCGS, he’s travelled to 80 countries on all 7 continents to document extreme forces of nature so that others can appreciate the power of Mother Nature’s temper tantrums. For 25 years he has chased tornadoes on the Great Plains, driven into the eye of hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, rappelled deep in the crater of active volcanoes in the Congo & South Pacific, climbed mountains in North Korea, and earned a Guinness World Record for become the first person to set foot at the bottom of the Darvaza flaming gas crater in Turkmenistan while leading an expedition for National Geographic.

http://furiousearth.com/Stormchaser.html

Summary
George Kourounis, an explorer in residence at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, shares his journey from being a musician and sound engineer to becoming a full-time storm chaser and adventurer. He specializes in traveling the world and documenting extreme forces of nature and natural disasters. George discusses the changing media landscape with the rise of social media and YouTube, and how it has both made it easier and more difficult for aspiring explorers and filmmakers. He also talks about his involvement with the Explorers Club and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and his passion for documenting extreme places and natural phenomena, particularly volcanoes. George Kourounis shares his fascination with volcanoes and his experience of getting married on top of an exploding volcano. He discusses the concept of adventure travel and the importance of stepping outside of one's comfort zone. George also talks about his expedition to Turkmenistan's flaming crater, known as the 'Doorway to Hell,' and his mission to study the microbes living at the bottom of the crater. He describes the challenges of obtaining permission and the intense experience of being at the bottom of the flaming pit. In this final part of the conversation, George Kourounis discusses the intentional efforts of Turkmenistan to put out the fire in the Darvaza gas crater and reclaim the gas for profit. He also talks about the unique architecture and empty streets of the capital city, Ashgabat. George shares his experiences connecting with locals in Turkmenistan and other countries he has visited. The conversation then shifts to the topic of food, with George sharing his most bizarre food experience of eating a piece of a 10,000-year-old woolly mammoth in Siberia. The importance of being cautious with food and water while traveling is also emphasized.

Takeaways

• George Kourounis specializes in traveling the world and documenting extreme forces of nature and natural disasters.
• The media landscape has changed dramatically with the rise of social media and YouTube, making it easier for anyone to create and share content, but also increasing competition.
• George is involved with the Explorers Club and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, organizations that promote discovery, exploration, and conservation.
• His passion lies in documenting extreme places and natural phenomena, particularly volcanoes. Volcanoes are fascinating and beautiful natural phenomena that can be both destructive and awe-inspiring.
• Adventure travel is about stepping outside of one's comfort zone and experiencing new

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide Trekking, Sweden, Outdoor Events

Sofie Jugård Löfgren
Outdoor Event Producer & Outdoor Guide
Aktivut

Passionate outdoor guide & ski instructor from the very north of Scandinavia. Since 20 years back managing the trekking event Fjällräven Classic Sweden that has grown to be 7 events world wide, attracting thousands of trekkers. Also into conscious breathing and connecting it to outdoor life.

https://aktivut.se/

Summary
Sofie Jugård Löfgren, an outdoor event producer and adventure guide, shares her journey into the outdoor industry and the importance of outdoor experiences. She discusses the abundance of sunlight in Sweden during the summer months and the challenges of living in a place with extreme daylight variations. Sofie highlights the value of outdoor activities in team building and creating connections, whether it's through incentive trips for companies or family adventures. She emphasizes the equalizing effect of the outdoors, where everyone can contribute their unique skills and abilities. Sofie also mentions the importance of introducing teenagers to outdoor experiences and the positive impact it can have on their independence and personal growth. Sofie Jugård Löfgren discusses her involvement in event organizing and outdoor event producing, specifically the Fjällräven Classic. She shares how she got into the event industry and the success of the Fjällräven Classic, which started as a running event but later shifted to a trekking event. Sofie explains that the event is not a race but a trekking experience where participants can walk at their own pace and enjoy the nature. She also mentions the growth of the event, with editions now taking place in multiple countries. Additionally, Sofie talks about her new venture in conscious breathing and Ayurveda, aiming to combine these practices with outdoor activities.

Takeaways

• Outdoor experiences can have a profound impact on personal growth and team building.
• Incentive trips that include outdoor activities provide a unique opportunity for colleagues to connect and get to know each other in a different setting.
• Teenagers often benefit from outdoor experiences that allow them to gain independence and connect with peers.
• The outdoors can create a level playing field where everyone's skills and abilities are valued and contribute to the group dynamic.
• Introducing children to outdoor activities at a young age can foster a love for nature and adventure. Sofie got into event organizing and outdoor event producing through a collaboration with the outdoor brand Fjällräven
• The Fjällräven Classic started as a running event but later shifted to a trekking event
• The event is not a race but a trekking experience where participants can walk at their own pace and enjoy the nature
• The Fjällräven Classic has grown over the years and now has editions in multiple countries
• Sofie is also involved in conscious breathing and Ayurveda, aiming to combine these practices with outdoor activities

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Brazil, Ecotourism, Destination Management

Mikael Castro
Country Manager, Brazil - Abercrombie & Kent DMC
Abercrombie & Kent

Sustainable Tourism Strategist | 20+ Years of Global Experience | Conde Nast Top Travel Specialist 2023

As a seasoned manager with over 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, I am focused on providing unique and sustainable travel experiences. Throughout my career, I have worked with tour operators, non-profits, and international associations in over 25 countries and visited over 76 countries. I am an expert luxury and adventure travel professional with the ability to design, market and operate complex itineraries in unique locations. I thrive creating experiences that connect people profoundly with the places they visit and people they meet.

I am a senior level managing director with solid financial experience and proven track record of hitting P&L forecasts. I enjoy challenges and love to rally a team to push towards a vison.

I have a passion for photography and sharing through storytelling.

https://www.akdmc.com/destinations/latin-america/brazil/

summary
Mikael Castro, the country manager for Brazil for Abercrombie and Kent DMC, shares his journey from growing up in Brazil and the United States to working in the tourism industry. He discusses his passion for travel, his experiences exploring different cultures, and the impact of his father's work in conservation. Mikael also talks about his decision to leave his job and embark on a nine-month expedition with his father in Africa, which led him to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality. He shares his love for Brazil and the unique identity of the country, as well as the surprises that visitors often have when they experience Rio de Janeiro. Brazil is a vast country with diverse landscapes and attractions beyond the popular destinations of Rio de Janeiro and Iguazu Falls. There are many opportunities for sustainable travel in Brazil, with the country leading the way in renewable energy sources. The hospitality gene is essential for guides in Brazil, as they not only provide information but also create authentic connections with travelers. Personal interactions, such as sharing a meal or playing soccer with locals, are powerful ways to experience the culture and make lasting memories. Brazil offers a wealth of natural resources and biomes to explore, making it an ideal destination for sustainable and transformative travel experiences.

takeaways

• Mikael Castro's upbringing in a family passionate about travel and conservation shaped his love for exploring different cultures and the natural world.
• His decision to embark on a nine-month expedition with his father in Africa led him to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality.
• Mikael's deep connection to Brazil and its unique identity influenced his decision to work in the tourism industry and promote the country's natural beauty and outdoor experiences.
• Visitors to Rio de Janeiro are often surprised by the city's stunning landscapes, friendly people, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Brazil is a vast country with diverse landscapes and attractions beyond the popular destinations of Rio de Janeiro and Iguazu Falls.
• There are many opportunities for sustainable travel in Brazil, with the country leading the way in renewable energy sources.
• The hospitality gene is essential for guides in Brazil, as they not only provide information but also create authentic connections with travelers.

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Adventure Travel, Tourism Business

Monika Sundem
CEO
Adventure Life

As a Pacific Northwest native I grew up playing in the mountains and lakes of the Cascades. I now enjoy living near Glacier National Park and am learning how to master the adventure called 'motherhood'. I have been an Adventure Lifer for over 18 years during which time I've worn many hats from operations to trip planning to marketing. I have traveled the world, but hold a special place in my heart for Latin America in particular. I love opportunities to interact with indigenous and local cultures and always glean valuable lessons as a result of off-the-beaten travel. I feel honored to be a part of creating similar life-changing moments for our travelers and grateful to work with the dedicated and amazing team at Adventure Life.

https://www.adventure-life.com/

Summary
Monika Sundem, CEO of Adventure Life, shares her journey from bookkeeping to leading a travel company. Her passion for Latin culture and travel inspired her to join Adventure Life. She emphasizes the importance of personal connections and building relationships with clients. The company transitioned to a fully remote team, which has its challenges in terms of training and communication, but also offers the flexibility to hire the best candidates regardless of location. The team's collective travel experience and ability to customize trips based on clients' preferences are key factors in their success. Monika Sundem, the CEO at Adventure Life, discusses the importance of human connection in travel. She emphasizes that it's the people, both the staff and the travelers, that make the experience meaningful and fulfilling. Monika shares personal stories of connecting with travelers and forming deep connections with them. She also highlights the value of cultural connections and the joy of interacting with locals in different countries. Monika acknowledges the challenges of running a travel business, including the weight of decision-making and the responsibility towards employees. Overall, she emphasizes the significance of human connection in the travel industry.

Takeaways

• Passion for Latin culture and travel led Monika Sundem to join Adventure Life
• Building personal connections and relationships with clients is crucial in the travel industry
• Transitioning to a fully remote team has its challenges, but also offers flexibility in hiring
• The team's collective travel experience and ability to customize trips are key factors in their success The people, both staff and travelers, are what make travel experiences meaningful and fulfilling.
• Cultural connections and interactions with locals enhance the travel experience.
• Running a travel business comes with challenges and responsibilities, including decision-making and the well-being of employees.
• Human connection is essential in the travel industry and contributes to memorable experiences.

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, SCUBA Diving, Responsible Tourism

Marjanna Akhtar
Owner
Great Expeditions Travel

Marjanna’s interest in international travel began in the late ‘80s while pursuing her BA in animal biology at the University of Colorado, and she took her first underwater breath on scuba!

That was the beginning of a travel career that spans over three decades; beginning in 1990 with a specialization in the niche market of scuba diving and the destinations found in the South Pacific.

Over the ensuing years, she has evolved the business to reflect the diverse interests of the company’s growing clientele base, as well as her own style and passion for world-wide travel. Destinations in Africa, Central & South America, SE Asia and Europe now feature strongly in the company's portfolio and incorporating authentic experiences into customized itineraries for individuals, families and small groups of friends are the foundation of Great Expeditions Travel.

Throughout her travel career, exploring the world did not halt when motherhood arrived and her son, now a young adult, has been immersed into international travel since the age of 9 months.

When not on her desk, you can often find Marjanna on the back of her horse, enjoying the rural small communities of western Colorado with her dogs and husband.

https://greatexpeditionstravel.com/

Summary
Marjanna Akhtar, owner of Great Expeditions Travel, discusses her background in adventure travel and the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism. She shares her personal experiences and the impact of travel on her own life. The conversation also touches on the challenges of over-tourism and the role of tour operators in promoting responsible travel. Marjanna emphasizes the need for travelers to support local communities and conservation efforts, and the importance of connecting with people and cultures while traveling. Marjanna Akhtar discusses the benefits of being a member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) and the importance of networking and connecting with responsible tour operators. She highlights the role of ATTA in bringing together all the components of the travel industry to grow the market in sustainable ways. Marjanna also emphasizes the challenges and rewards of running a tour operation business, including the need for extensive knowledge and education in the industry. She discusses the value of human contact in travel and the importance of personalized experiences. Marjanna shares the satisfaction of creating life-changing experiences for clients and the pride she feels in her work.

Takeaways

• Adventure travel can be a means to explore a destination and connect with local communities and nature.
• Responsible tourism involves supporting local communities, conservation efforts, and distributing income to the people on the ground.
• Over-tourism is a concern, and it is important to find ways to minimize the negative impact of mass tourism.
• Tour operators play a crucial role in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism and educating clients about their choices.
• Travel can help break down prejudices and foster understanding and connection among people from different cultures and backgrounds. Being a member of ATTA provides networking opportunities and connections with responsible tour operators.
• ATTA brings together all components of the travel industry to grow the market in sustainable ways.
• Running a tour operation business requires extensive knowledge, education, and the

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 at bigworldmadesmall.com.