Bianca Rappaport
Creator
Wanderwell Club

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/bianca-rappaport/

Guest Bio

Bianca Rappaport is the founder of Wanderwell Club and a full-time nomad who has spent nearly a decade house and pet sitting across more than 20 countries on five continents. Since 2016, she has crafted a lifestyle that fuses financial freedom with meaningful travel—saving over $300,000 in rent, leveraging travel hacks for low-cost flights, and building a multi-six-figure investment portfolio. Remarkably, she reached Coast FI by age 34 without ever earning a six-figure salary.

Her approach combines intentional, slow travel with smart financial strategies, values-based spending, and a commitment to community. Whether she’s volunteering with locals or supporting small businesses, Bianca believes in giving back to the places she visits.

Through Wanderwell Club, Bianca empowers digital nomads and remote workers to build a sustainable lifestyle that balances exploration, financial independence, and positive social impact.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Bianca Rappaport, founder of the Wanderwell Club and long-time global nomad. Bianca shares how her multicultural background and early desire to see the world led her to a lifestyle rooted in slow, intentional travel and personal freedom.

The conversation explores how Bianca built a financially sustainable life on the road through house sitting, frugal living, and long-term investing. She emphasizes the importance of community, mindfulness, and reciprocity in travel—encouraging listeners to slow down, build local connections, and make a positive impact along the way. Her journey is a compelling example of how travel and financial wellness can go hand in hand.

Key Takeaways

• ✓ Sustainable travel and financial freedom can go hand in hand with the right strategy.
• ✓ Bianca embraces the term “digital slow mad” to describe her intentional travel style.
• ✓ Slowing down allows for deeper relationships and a stronger sense of place.
• ✓ A powerful passport is a privilege that opens doors to global mobility.
• ✓ Even challenging moments—like crashing on a friend’s couch—can lead to transformation.
• ✓ House sitting offers a cost-effective, immersive way to travel long-term.
• ✓ Financial literacy is key to sustaining a nomadic lifestyle and planning for retirement.
• ✓ Wanderwell Club provides a supportive space for community, growth, and guidance.
• ✓ Mindful travel creates ripple effects that benefit local communities.
• ✓ Saying yes to new opportunities often leads to unexpected, life-changing adventures.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Guest Bio

Jerry Elkins is a lifelong adventurer whose journey has spanned skies, caves, coastlines, and countless open roads. He began flying hot air balloons in 1979 and, for nearly a decade, made his living as a traveling balloon barnstormer — eventually becoming the first pilot to fly in all 50 U.S. states. But Jerry’s adventures go far beyond the basket. Over the past four decades, he’s explored underwater worlds through SCUBA diving, delved into deep caves, traveled extensively, and built lasting connections through storytelling. As the second of four generations of Elkins balloon pilots, Jerry brings a rich legacy of curiosity, courage, and a deep love for the outdoors to every experience he shares.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with his father, Jerry, about a life defined by exploration, personal growth, and family legacy. From early days in Wyoming to adventures across land, air, and sea, their conversation paints a vivid picture of what it means to live fully and intentionally.

They reflect on memorable childhood moments, the power of storytelling, and how a spirit of curiosity led Jerry into ballooning, cave exploration, SCUBA diving, and beyond. With heartfelt honesty, Jerry shares lessons learned from a lifetime of adventure — and Jason explores how those moments have shaped his own path. Together, they celebrate the value of memories, connection, and embracing the unknown.

Key Takeaways

✓ Adventure is about personal growth, not just thrills.
✓ Childhood experiences often shape our worldview and identity.
✓ Embracing discomfort can lead to meaningful transformation.
✓ Strong communities and friendships enrich the journey of life.
✓ Life’s most treasured possessions are often memories, not things.
✓ Writing offers a powerful way to preserve and reflect on experiences.
✓ Staying present opens the door to unexpected discoveries.
✓ The path of life is a continuous cycle of learning and adapting.
✓ Parental support can inspire a lifelong spirit of exploration.
✓ It’s never too late to pursue new creative passions.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Richard Lindberg
Founder & CEO
One Planet Journey

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/richard-lindberg/

Guest Bio

Richard is a serial entrepreneur and proven change-maker, leveraging 15+ years of leadership in sustainable finance and tourism for innovative solutions in the travel industry. As the founder of One Planet Journey, the authority on deep travel, he helps brands and destinations future-proof their operations by connecting them with the high-value, conscious traveller.

His mission is to make deep travel experiences the norm. He believes in an industry where authenticity, personalisation, sustainability, immersion, and exclusivity define successful hospitality and travel.

Show Summary

In this episode, Richard Lindberg, founder and CEO of One Planet Journey, discusses the philosophy of meaningful travel, emphasizing the importance of understanding the purpose behind travel experiences. He shares his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the birth of his travel platform. Richard provides insights on how to immerse oneself in local cultures, navigate negative perceptions of travel, and the role of AI in travel writing. He also reflects on the joys and challenges of traveling with a partner and encourages listeners to embrace deep travel for a more enriching experience.

Key Takeaways

• ✓ One Planet Journey redefines travel by focusing on meaning and intentionality.
• ✓ Travelers often begin in a “dreaming” phase — looking for emotional connection and inspiration.
• ✓ Immersive travel requires curiosity, openness, and deliberate choices.
• ✓ Online negativity and reviews can distort public perceptions of destinations.
• ✓ AI can be a helpful tool in research, but authentic human storytelling remains vital.
• ✓ Navigating travel with a partner takes communication, compromise, and shared goals.
• ✓ Off-season travel offers more authentic, less commercialized cultural experiences.
• ✓ Deep travel encourages self-discovery and fosters lasting cultural connections.
• ✓ The travel industry is shifting toward values-based, sustainable practices.
• ✓ Engaging with locals creates more impactful and memorable journeys.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Anietra Hamper

Owner

ThreeWordPress

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/anietra-hamper/

Guest Bio
Anietra Hamper is an award-winning journalist, outdoor adventure writer, and founder of ThreeWordPress. After nearly two decades as a top-rated television news anchor and Emmy-nominated investigative reporter, she transitioned into the world of travel journalism, where she now specializes in destination storytelling and fishing features. Anietra’s work has appeared in publications like Newsweek, USA Today, Women’s Outdoor News, Game & Fish Magazine, and TakeMeFishing.org, among many others. She is the author of Secret Columbus and 100 Things To Do In Columbus Before You Die, both published by Reedy Press, and contributes to bilingual and international travel books.

As a Columbus, Ohio native, Anietra balances her adventurous global travels with corporate storytelling at home. Through her company, ThreeWordPress, she crafts compelling content for Fortune 500 companies, blending her skills in broadcast, voiceover, and journalism. She’s also a vetted member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA), a SAG/AFTRA performer with TV and film credits, and a co-host of the Delaware County Fishing Trail video series. Whether she's pulling 9Gs in a fighter jet or reeling in exotic fish in Guyana, Anietra brings a unique blend of grit, curiosity, and creativity to everything she does.

Show Summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Anietra about her fascinating journey from television news to the world of outdoor travel journalism. She reflects on how growing up fishing with her grandfather laid the foundation for a lifelong love of nature — one that would eventually take her around the globe in search of extraordinary fishing stories and cultural encounters. Anietra discusses her commitment to authenticity in a digital world where AI-generated content is on the rise, emphasizing the value of storytelling rooted in real experiences.

The conversation also explores the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated spaces like sport fishing. Anietra shares honest insights into how gender dynamics show up on the water and the opportunities to shift the culture toward inclusion and respect. Her thoughtful perspective blends journalism, advocacy, and a deep appreciation for conservation, offering a compelling look at why fishing is about far more than just the catch.

Key Takeaways
✓ Anietra successfully transitioned from investigative journalism to outdoor and travel writing.
✓ Authentic storytelling remains essential in the age of AI-generated content.
✓ Her love of nature and fishing was shaped by early experiences with her grandfather.
✓ Storytelling is a powerful medium for building connection and credibility.
✓ She has carved out space for herself in a male-dominated fishing industry.
✓ Women in fishing often face pressure to prove themselves, but bring unique strengths to the sport.
✓ Anietra emphasizes empathy and listening as key to inclusive guiding and learning.
✓ Fishing should be accessible and enjoyable, regardless of gear or experience.
✓ The approach of a guide can shape the entire fishing experience, especially for beginners.
✓ Conservation and education are vital pillars of the fishing community's future.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Christopher Byrd

Founder & Managing Director

Adventure Cycling Thailand

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/christopher-byrd/

A formerly enlisted U.S. Marine that originally came from Maryland, Chris lived in Washington, DC for the last 12 years that he was living in the United States. Chris moved to Bangkok in April of 2002 and resided there until August of 2008 when he moved down to Hua Hin to include day tours and multi-day tours as part of his bicycle touring business. He plans to continue living in Thailand and work on growing the popularity of his Tour de Thailand Charity Rides and his Hua Hin Bike Tours / Royal Coast Bicycle Adventure Tours. Chris has over 25 years experience in the hotel and restaurant business as well as many years working in sales and customer service. His time in the Marine Corps gave him the strength to be a leader and to motivate his staff and fellow riders while understanding the physical limits of individuals. Chris is a caring person that loves to have a good time and help others.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins interviews Christopher Byrd, founder of Adventure Cycling Thailand. They discuss Christopher's journey from his early life in Maryland to his passion for cycling and how it led him to establish a bicycle touring business in Thailand. The conversation explores the philosophy behind cycling tours, the impact of hospitality experience on running a business, and the life changes that brought Christopher to Thailand, including the aftermath of 9/11. In this conversation, Christopher Byrd shares his transformative journey from bartending in Washington, D.C. to establishing a life in Thailand. He discusses the challenges he faced during his initial move, the inspiration behind his charity bike rides, and the evolution of his bike tour business. Byrd reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, including the physical and mental challenges of long-distance cycling, the importance of community support, and the impact of COVID-19 on his business. In this conversation, Christopher Byrd shares the journey of establishing Adventure Cycling Thailand, detailing the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic and the subsequent rebranding of the company. He discusses the importance of safety and security in Thailand, highlighting the welcoming nature of the culture. Additionally, Byrd reveals future plans for community engagement, including charity rides and a Pride event, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity and support for local charities.

takeaways

• Adventure Cycling Thailand focuses on single-day & multi-day bicycle tours.
• Christopher prefers a leisurely cycling style over competitive racing.
• His early experiences with cycling were influenced by his father.
• He transitioned from the Marine Corps to the hospitality industry.
• Customer service skills from hospitality are essential in tourism.
• Christopher's life took a turn after losing his job in tech.
• He sought a fresh start in Thailand after personal losses.
• The kindness of Thai people made him feel welcome during his visit.
• 9/11 had a profound impact on his perspective while abroad.
• Christopher's journey reflects resilience and adaptability. Christopher transitioned from bartending to living in Thailand.
• He was inspired to start a charity bike ride after moving to Thailand.
• The first charity ride was filled with unexpected challenges.
• Byrd learned valuable lessons about cycling and sponsorships.
• He successfully built a bike tour bu

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Tony Thorne

Managing Director

Wilderness Explorers

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/tony-thorne/

Tony Thorne first visited Guyana in 1988 as a Project Leader with Operation Raleigh and loved the adventure and rawness of the country. He returned in 1991 to watch the West Indians and Australians battle out a test match at Bourda Cricket Ground and decided to stay and accept a position to manage Timberhead Rainforest Resort. In 1994, when he started Wilderness Explorers, tourism was still mostly undeveloped, and the company took on the challenge of marketing Guyana internationally.

Tony was the first President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana in 1991 and served for numerous years on the board in various positions including Vice President. Over the years he has travelled extensively throughout Guyana and also the neighbouring countries to find suitable properties, locations and communities to work within developing tourism to the region. After all these years he still marvels at the majesty of Kaieteur Falls and its pristine environment. Tony enjoys great satisfaction in working with local communities developing their tourism products.

summary
In this episode, Tony Thorne, managing director of Wilderness Explorers, shares his adventurous journey from joining the army to establishing a successful tourism business in Guyana. He discusses the evolution of tourism in Guyana, the importance of indigenous communities in sustainable tourism, and the economic transformation of the country due to newfound oil resources. Tony emphasizes the significance of preserving the rainforest and the role of tourism in supporting local communities.

takeaways

• Tony's journey began with a desire for adventure, leading him to join the army.
• Wilderness Explorers focuses on creating seamless travel experiences in Guyana.
• The tourism industry in Guyana is evolving, with a focus on sustainability.
• Indigenous communities play a crucial role in the tourism model in Guyana.
• Tony helped establish the Tourism Association of Guyana to promote the industry.
• Guyana's unique cultural makeup surprises many visitors.
• The country is now experiencing economic growth due to oil discoveries.
• Sustainable tourism helps preserve the rainforest and supports local communities.
• Tourism in Guyana offers opportunities for adventure and wildlife experiences.
• Tony's story illustrates the importance of adaptability and persistence in business.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Dorothea Hochleitner
Extreme Solo Bicycle Traveler
IG @doro.on.the.go
https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/dorothea-hochleitner/

Dorothea from Austria was a police officer for nearly twelve years before she decided to swap her stable job for exploring the world. She has now been on the road for more than two and a half years – first backpacking for 15 months through Southeast Asia and India, before switching the backpack to a bicycle in September 2024 and starting to cycle towards India again. Starting in Austria, she rode through 11 countries until Georgia, then decided to fly to New Delhi because of security concerns around crossing either Russia or Iran. From Delhi she headed north into the Himalayas, where she faced high altitude and harsh weather conditions – but also the kindness of locals who took her in like family and allowed her to deeply connect with the culture.

Dorothea shares her story because she wants to show other women that they can trust their intuition, take space for themselves, and build a life that feels true to them – even if it means stepping outside the comfort zone first.

Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Dorothea Hochleitner, who shares her transformative journey from being a police officer in Vienna to becoming a world traveler. Dorothea discusses her decision to leave her stable job, the challenges and joys of solo travel, and the importance of following one's gut feeling. She reflects on her experiences in various countries, the lessons learned from her travels, and the impact of meditation on her personal growth. Dorothea also emphasizes the importance of inspiring others, especially women, to pursue their dreams and create their own paths in life.

Takeaways

• Dorothea left her job as a police officer to travel the world.
• She initially backpacked through Southeast Asia and India before cycling.
• Her trip to Panama sparked her desire to explore more.
• Traveling solo allows for deep self-reflection and personal growth.
• It's important to follow your gut feeling when making life decisions.
• Travel can be a way to escape but doesn't solve all problems.
• Finding joy in everyday experiences is more fulfilling than ticking off bucket lists.
• Social media can create pressure to conform to travel expectations.
• Meditation can help in understanding oneself better.
• You can create your own life and inspire others to do the same.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Vaibhav Kala

Founder

Aquaterra Adventures

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/vaibhav-kala/

Vaibhav has guided experiences from Morocco to the Inca trail, from the Colorado to the Yangtze, from the Futaleufu to Aconcagua, Ahansel to the Zambezi and from Kilimanjaro to the Everest trail. His leadership and expertise in both mountain and river environments, safety, risk management, knowledge, and impeccable planning has been the mainstay of the globally acknowledged Aquaterra Adventures. Vaibhav has opened many Himalayan trips to adventure tourism and his outfit is the only Indian adventure company on the 2008 & 2009 list of the BEST ADVENTURE TRAVEL COMPANIES ON EARTH, rated by the National Geographic Society. Having guided for 33 years in the adventure tourism industry, with many firsts to his name, his contributions have helped bring many rural regions to international tourism while unlocking the latent potential of youth not only through employment, but by training and imparting the ethos of being proud of ones’ origins. His work with governments involves crafting policies and nuances for adventure tourism to make it safer, responsible and more sustainable. Today, Vaibhav showcases a sustainable adventure tourism model that brings together culture, community, environment, health and wellness coupled with adventure, excitement and thrill improving lives and livelihoods through fun, grit, pride and purpose.

Summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins welcomes back Vaibhav Kala, founder of Aquaterra Adventures, to discuss the evolution of adventure travel in India. Bipav shares his journey from a chemistry student to a leading figure in the adventure tourism industry, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability. The conversation explores the challenges of over-tourism, the need for sustainable practices, and the future of adventure travel, highlighting the untouched beauty of India's landscapes. Vaibhav also discusses the changing demographics of travelers and the impact of technology on the industry, advocating for a more responsible approach to adventure tourism.

Takeaways

• Aquaterra Adventures focuses on 'limbs and lungs' travel, emphasizing human-powered activities.
• Vaibhav's journey into adventure travel began with guiding river trips at a young age.
• Childhood experiences in a military family fostered resilience and adaptability.
• The adventure travel industry in India has evolved significantly over the past 30 years.
• Over-tourism poses a significant threat to the sustainability of adventure travel.
• The importance of setting expectations for travelers has increased with changing demographics.
• India offers untouched areas that are still open for exploration and adventure.
• The future of adventure travel lies in small group experiences in remote locations.
• Discerning travelers are becoming more aware of safety and environmental impacts.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.