Darene Puttergill: how the Camino defines our soul

French pilgrim Marie Sonnois rode her beloved horse Zambomba, from her home to Santiago de Compostela and then onto Porto and back, covering over 2,200 miles in 521 days. Marie discusses her motivations for embarking on this adventure, the challenges she faced along the way, and the profound personal growth she experienced. We talk about the bond between Marie and Zambomba, the lessons learned from their journey, and the spiritual insights gained through the pilgrimage. The photograph was taken by Adele J. Huber.

My mother died last week. It was an amazing life. She once wrote about picking daisies.

With a family tragedy on the immediate horizon, Dan reflects on what the Camino means to him - and how it bring solace to those in need. We have a brand new Patreon offering for subscribers and sponsors. For all the details go to patreon.com/danmullins

Jo Penn is an award-winning, NY Times & USA Today Bestselling Author. Jo writes thrillers, dark fantasy, horror and crime titles, and is also a Podcaster. Her book, 'Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways', is about preparing, learning and getting the most out of your pilgrimage. I so loved this chat, and you'll love Jo's book, too. Find Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways here. And Jo's writing website, so you can publish your OWN Camino book is here

Nick Sassan is a young pilgrim from the United States with one of the most unusual Camino stories you’ll hear. While most walkers arrive armed with sturdy hiking boots and meticulously tested shoes, Nick set out on the ancient pilgrimage in… Birkenstock sandals. And yes — he walked all 800 kilometres of the Camino Francés in them. By the time he reached Santiago, he'd worn right through the soles.

Ken Huang RUNS the Camino!! In this episode of My Camino - the Podcast, Ken reflects on her life of long-distance running, her experiences during her adventures, including the Camino and the contrast between the anticipation of enlightenment and the reality of a blank mind. Ken discusses the instinctual navigation that takes over during these experiences and the subsequent reflections that occur afterward, emphasizing the importance of the journey and the encounters along the Way. You can find Ken's videos here

Arlene Laskey is a Canadian author. Her debut novel is 'Quest for the Enlightened Pilgrim: Walking the Camino'. The book is inspired by Arlene's real-life experiences on the Camino de Santiago and her study of the Master Key System, a fascinating look at how our thoughts empower our future. There's also a Camino journal you can take with you on your Camino to keep a record of your wonderful pilgrimage. You can find Arlene's books here

I've just returned from the Camino Portuguese and loved every moment. I have a brief summary of our trip PLUS a very inspiring story of an Australian man who is walking the Camino to raise awareness of depression and suicide across the world. Here's a link to Geoff's campaign

Jean-Claude Benazet wrote the Camino hymn 'Ultreia'. I was delighted to get the chance to interview Jean-Claude, to talk about the history of the song, what it means to him and what it means for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims who walk the Camino each year. This episode is a snapshot of kindness, of love and light. Much love to you, pilgrim. Dan

Elle Halliwell is a Sydney-based journalist, author and motivational speaker. Her incredible story was the subject of her book A Mother's Choice where she details her journey of cancer and motherhood. Now Elle's a pilgrim having just returned from walking part of the Via Francigena to Rome. This is a wonderful story of belief, hope and discovery.