The Modern Explorer

Join us for a riveting episode of the Modern Explorer podcast with guest Ross Bernards. We delve into the magnetic allure Colorado exerts on adventurers, igniting their passion for the great outdoors. Ross shares his transformative journey from a life-changing trip to Eastern Utah, where his fascination with canyoneering was sparked. He recounts a harrowing tale from a climb near Arches National Park that propelled him into a full-time career in photography. Prepare to be captivated by the legendary Utah monolith saga and exhilarating tales of canyoneering adventures in Costa Rica. Tune in for a thrilling exploration of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and the indomitable spirit of exploration.

Join us on The Modern Explorer Podcast as we dive into captivating tales with special guest Chris Balladarez. Hear about the transformative journey through the Southwest that ignited his passion for travel and photography. Discover the profound impact of a meaningful trip to Patagonia, where Chris, alongside his wife and a talented group of creatives, embarked on a Canon shoot. Be enthralled by his humbling experience in the Eastern Sierras, as he attempted a summit of Mount Whitney. From chasing tornadoes and storms through the Midwest to the power of overcoming fear and embracing open-mindedness, Chris shares his inspiring adventures that will leave you eager to explore the world.

In this episode of the Modern Explorer Podcast, join me as I sit down with Mike Anthony, a seasoned traveler, to delve into his captivating journey across the globe. From his bold decision to leave his job and embark on a 4-6 month exploration of Southeast Asia to his immersive experiences in Portugal and the breathtaking landscapes of Southwest Colorado during fall, Mike's stories are bound to inspire wanderlust in all of us. Reflecting on his first major photography trip in Colorado, where he forged connections with fellow photographers, Mike shares valuable insights on maintaining sanity while navigating the challenges of being a self-critic in photography and adapting to unexpected twists during travels without letting them overshadow the adventure. Tune in as Mike discusses his eagerly anticipated upcoming trip to Norway, a destination he's dreamed of visiting for as long as he can remember.

In this episode, join me as I delve into the highlights of my exhilarating 8-day road trip across the breathtaking landscapes of Zion, the Eastern Sierras, and Hanksville. From the vibrant carpets of blooming lupine to the exhilarating rush of whipping my bike through stunning canyons, every moment of this adventure was infused with wonder and discovery. I'll take you along as I recount the sights, sounds, and scents of each destination, from the majestic peaks of the Sierras to the serene beauty of Zion's red-rock canyons. Along the way, we'll pause to marvel at the delicate beauty of blooming desert flowers, their vibrant hues painting the arid landscape with bursts of color. But this journey isn't just about the sights—it's about the experiences that linger in the heart and mind long after the trip has ended. I'll share my main takeaways from the road, reflecting on the lessons learned and the moments of clarity and connection that emerged amidst the beauty of nature. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be transported to the open road as I bring you along on this unforgettable journey. From the wildflower-strewn meadows of the Sierras to the rugged canyons of Zion and the tranquil desert vistas of Hanksville, this road trip was a symphony of adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Join us on an enthralling adventure as we laugh over several stories shared by our guest, Ramon Arroyo Jr., from his unforgettable trips to Utah and Iceland. In this captivating episode of The Modern Explorer, Ramon takes us on a vivid exploration of his inaugural creator meetup in Utah, where he found himself among esteemed guests from our previous episodes. Discover how this experience became a beacon of inspiration, shedding light on the boundless potential within the creative community. From the rugged terrains of Utah to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, Ramon unravels the profound impact these destinations had on his creative journey. Listen intently as he recounts the awe-inspiring moments and profound insights that reshaped his perspective on creativity. With each anecdote, Ramon unveils layers of discovery, showcasing how these trips served as catalysts for his creative evolution. Yet, the journey doesn't conclude here. Accompany us as Ramon provides a glimpse into the exciting adventures he has in store, teasing us with hints of forthcoming explorations. Through his reflections, Ramon imparts invaluable wisdom on the virtue of patience, reminding us that great creativity often flourishes in the fertile soil of time. Dive into this exhilarating episode of The Modern Explorer as we immerse ourselves in the depths of creativity, guided by the remarkable experiences of Ramon Arroyo Jr.          

Join us on The Modern Explorer Podcast as we chat with guest JP Ramirez, a passionate photographer whose exploration of both landscapes and creativity has been deeply influenced by the unique challenges and opportunities of the COVID-19 era. In this episode, JP shares his personal odyssey of discovery ignited by the pandemic, which pushed him to expand his photographic horizons. Through his lens, he invites us to witness the profound impact of his trips to mesmerizing locations like Hanksville, White Pocket, and the majestic Yosemite National Park. These expeditions not only deepened his love for exploration but also fueled his artistic vision. But JP's exploration extends beyond landscapes; he's also dedicated to fostering a community of creatives. Tune in as he reveals his innovative initiatives to bring like-minded individuals together through meetups in some of the most breathtaking locales, creating spaces where inspiration knows no bounds. Amidst the backdrop of his adventures, JP offers invaluable insights into the creative process. He discusses the importance of resisting the trap of comparison, emphasizing the need to nurture one's unique voice and vision. Through heartfelt anecdotes, he illuminates what it truly means to create content that resonates deeply with both creator and audience alike. So whether you're an avid explorer or a budding artist, join us for an inspiring conversation with JP Ramirez as we uncover the essence of exploration and creativity in the modern world.

Join us on this exhilarating episode of The Modern Explorer as we sit down with the captivating Forest Funk, a seasoned drone pilot whose journey from the vibrant lights of Alabama casinos to the breathtaking landscapes of California and beyond is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Forest takes us back to his early days as a drone pilot in Alabama, recounting how a serendipitous job at a local casino sparked his passion for aerial photography and led him to acquire his very first drone. From capturing the dynamic energy of the bustling casino scene to exploring the hidden gems of Alabama's natural landscapes, Forest shares the transformative power of aerial photography in shaping his perspective of the world. But the adventure doesn't stop there. Forest regales us with tales of his spontaneous escapades in New Hampshire, where a planned trip with a group of Instagram friends led to unforgettable adventures in the great outdoors. From hiking through rugged terrain to soaring above majestic mountains, Forest and his newfound companions embark on a journey of discovery and camaraderie that exemplifies the spirit of modern exploration. One of the highlights of Forest's journey is his awe-inspiring encounter with Factory Butte, a majestic landmark in Utah that leaves an indelible mark on his soul. Through Forest's lens, we witness the raw beauty and grandeur of this natural wonder, reminding us of the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. But it's not all about breathtaking landscapes and daring adventures. Forest also shares invaluable insights and advice for aspiring creatives and social media enthusiasts looking to carve out their own path in the digital age. From cultivating a unique aesthetic to fostering authentic connections with your audience, Forest offers practical tips and heartfelt encouragement for those seeking to turn their passion into a thriving career. So join us as we embark on a captivating journey with Forest Funk, a modern explorer whose boundless curiosity and adventurous spirit inspire us to see the world in a whole new light.

Last week marked 1 year of my full-time freelance career. It's been a roller coast ride and has taught me more than I could have ever imagined.    In this episode, I reflect on the adventures from starting off in Utah, to spending two weeks chasing wildflowers, time in the Tetons, a month back east for the foliage, time in Texas, and more recently a trip to Sedona.   The latter half goes into 10 things I've learned or implemented that have left an impact on myself and hopefully will spark some habits in you. 

Join us in this captivating episode of The Modern Explorer Podcast as we delve into the thrilling adventures of Clyde Plasencia, a true aficionado of the great outdoors. Clyde takes us on a nostalgic journey, recounting his formative years growing up in Colorado, where his passion for exploration was ignited at a tender age. From attending a transformative camp that introduced him to the wonders of nature to conquering formidable 14ers at the astonishing age of 10, Clyde's journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Prepare to be mesmerized as he shares the exhilarating tale of his solo camping escapade that will leave you on the edge of your seat, hanging onto every word. But Clyde's adventures don't stop there. He regales us with tales of his unforgettable summer road trip through the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, accompanied by his loyal canine companion and trusty Subaru. As he traverses the rugged terrain, Clyde discovers the true essence of freedom and camaraderie, forging unforgettable memories along the way. And if that wasn't enough, Clyde takes us on a thrilling road trip through the breathtaking vistas of Utah, where he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. From capturing stunning landscapes to experimenting with new forms of photography, Clyde's adventure through Utah is a testament to the transformative power of travel and friendship. Tune in as Clyde Plasencia shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery, resilience, and boundless exploration. Whether you're an avid outdoors enthusiast or simply seeking inspiration, this episode promises to ignite your sense of wanderlust and leave you yearning for your next great adventure.

Join us for an enchanting episode of the Modern Explorer Podcast as we sit down with Dasha Afanaseva, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and avid photographer. Dasha takes us on a captivating journey through her life's adventures, from idyllic summers in the Ukrainian countryside to transformative experiences in the majestic mountains of Switzerland and Colorado. Discover how Dasha's childhood summers spent amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Ukrainian countryside ignited her love for the great outdoors, planting the seeds for a lifelong passion for exploration. Through her eyes, we witness the magic of her first trip to Switzerland, inspired by the enchanting landscapes depicted in the Lord of the Rings, as she discovers the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains for the first time. Listen in as Dasha shares captivating tales from her adventures in Iceland and Scotland, where she learned to strike a delicate balance between capturing moments through her lens and immersing herself in the raw, untamed beauty of nature. From the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, where every corner begged to be captured, to the serene tranquility of Scotland's rugged highlands, where she found solace in simply being present in the moment, Dasha's stories paint a vivid portrait of the power of nature to inspire and awe. In a heartfelt conversation, Dasha shares profound insights on the importance of embracing new experiences and pushing past the limitations imposed by age. Through her own journey of self-discovery and personal growth, she reminds us that adventure knows no bounds and that the beauty of the world is meant to be savored, cherished, and shared. Tune in to the Modern Explorer Podcast and embark on an unforgettable adventure with Dasha Afanaseva, where every moment is an opportunity to discover the beauty that lies within and around us.