A Bit of Curiosity Podcast

From Homelessness to Hope: Ken Miller's Resilience

Summary In this conversation, Ken Miller shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood, marked by homelessness and addiction, to becoming a successful speaker and consultant focused on resilience. He discusses the impact of his upbringing, the struggles with alcoholism, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek recovery. Ken emphasizes the importance of self-esteem, acceptance, and the power of truth in overcoming personal challenges. He also highlights the role of inspiration and gratitude in his life, encouraging others to recognize their worth and take actionable steps towards personal growth. Key Takeaways * Ken Miller's journey highlights the power of resilience in overcoming adversity. * His experiences with homelessness and addiction shaped his understanding of self-worth. * The importance of self-esteem is crucial in personal recovery and growth. * Ken emphasizes the need for acceptance of uncontrollable circumstances. * He advocates for the power of truth in addressing personal challenges. * Inspiration comes from external sources and internal motivation. * Gratitude plays a significant role in Ken's life and recovery. * Ken's story illustrates the impact of mentorship and helping others. * He discusses the importance of defining key concepts like fear and acceptance. * Ken encourages individuals to take actionable steps towards self-improvement. Thanks for reading A Bit of Curiosity! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abitofcuriosity.substack.com [https://abitofcuriosity.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Human Behavior, Neuroplasticity, and The Power of Travel with Ted Santos

In this conversation, Ted Santos shares his journey into understanding human behavior, starting from a young age. He discusses the importance of chaos in leadership and personal growth, emphasizing that chaos is not inherently negative but rather an opportunity for development. Ted highlights the significance of community and cooperation, drawing from his experiences living in different cultures. He explains the concept of neuroplasticity and how it relates to personal growth, encouraging listeners to seek out new experiences and connections. The discussion culminates in practical steps for engaging with one's community and fostering meaningful relationships. Key Takeaways * Understanding human behavior can start at a young age. * Chaos can be an opportunity for growth and leadership. * Creating problems can help individuals break out of problem-solving modes. * Community and cooperation are essential for personal and societal growth. * Neuroplasticity allows for the development of new skills and perspectives. * Engaging with others requires a commitment to understanding them. * Vulnerability is necessary for meaningful connections. * Mastering oneself is crucial for effective leadership. * Experiences in different cultures can broaden one's perspective. * Small changes in environment can lead to significant personal growth. Where to Find & Follow Ted https://turnaroundip.com [https://turnaroundip.com] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abitofcuriosity.substack.com [https://abitofcuriosity.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

A Lifetime of Runs Around the World with the Mayor of Running - Bart Yasso

Bart Yasso [https://www.bartyasso.com] recently published his new book in partnership with National Geographic called 100 Runs of a Lifetime [https://amzn.to/4e8CgEN]. We caught up with Bart to discuss the book, running around the world, the community of running, and the days together at the Runners World Half Marathon. Thanks for reading A Bit of Curiosity! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. In this engaging conversation, Bart Yasso, known as the 'Mayor of Running,' shares his incredible journey through the world of running. From his early days of running in cutoff jeans to racing in Antarctica, Bart discusses his experiences in over 54 countries and all seven continents. He reflects on his 31-year career at Runner's World, emphasizing the importance of connecting with everyday runners and the emotional stories that come from the sport. Bart's insights into the challenges faced by runners, especially those overcoming health issues, highlight the power of community and storytelling in the running world. In this engaging conversation, We explore the transformative power of running, from inspiring family members to take up the sport to Bart's personal journey from a casual runner to a prominent figure in the running community. They discuss the evolution of running, particularly the increasing inclusivity of women in the sport, and Bart's recent achievement of authoring a book for National Geographic. The conversation also highlights the beauty of running in places like Cape Town and the unifying experience of events like the Comrades Marathon, where runners from all backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared passion. In this conversation, Bart Yasso shares his profound experiences in the running community, discussing memorable encounters, emotional moments at races, and the lessons learned throughout his journey. He emphasizes the power of running to inspire others and reflects on the legacy of the Yasso 800s, a training method named after him. Bart's insights highlight the importance of community, personal growth, and the joy of running, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. Key Takeaways * A Global Ambassador for Running – Bart Yasso, dubbed the "Mayor of Running," has run on all seven continents and in 54 countries, using his platform to connect runners worldwide. * Running as a Lifelong Journey – What began as a personal hobby in the 1970s turned into a 31-year career at Runner’s World, filled with iconic races, unforgettable experiences, and deep emotional connections. * Inclusion & Storytelling – Bart champions the stories of everyday runners, emphasizing that each journey—especially those overcoming adversity—is worth sharing. * Inspiration & Impact – From meeting inspiring figures like Willie Matolo to mentoring a young autistic boy, Bart shows how running can touch lives in unexpected, powerful ways. * Breaking Barriers Through Running – Running is a unifying force that welcomes all abilities, breaks down societal walls, and encourages people of all ages to get moving. * Legacy & Lessons – Whether through his Yasso 800s workout or his memoir My Life on the Run, Bart’s message is clear: never limit where running can take you—emotionally, physically, or globally. Where to Connect with Bart https://www.bartyasso.com [https://www.bartyasso.com] Grab the Book https://amzn.to/4e8CgEN [https://amzn.to/4e8CgEN] https://instagram.com/bartyasso [https://instagram.com/bartyasso] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abitofcuriosity.substack.com [https://abitofcuriosity.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Creativity, Exploration, Travel, Time, and Randomness with Nick Stagge

In this engaging conversation, Jeremy Howlett and Nick Stagge explore various themes surrounding travel, personal experiences, and the importance of creating memories with family. They discuss Nick's journey as a podcast host, his philosophy on travel, and the significance of breaking free from routine. The dialogue emphasizes the value of flexibility in travel, the power of stillness, and the impact of exposure to different cultures on personal growth. Nick shares his love for travel, the origins of this passion, and practical tips for making travel more accessible and enjoyable. In this conversation, Marla and Jeremy explore the profound cultural contrasts between Mumbai and Laotribune, emphasizing the importance of experiences over material possessions. They discuss the need to disconnect from technology to be present at the moment and the significance of fostering a supportive work culture that prioritizes well-being. The dialogue also touches on the power of simplicity and creativity, highlighting how constraints can lead to innovative thinking. Thanks for reading A Bit of Curiosity! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. Key Takeaways * People-First Leadership – Nick Stagge advocates for a leadership style that prioritizes well-being, flexibility, and mutual respect, both in the workplace and in hiring. * Transformative Power of Travel – Travel can reset priorities, spark self-discovery, and open up a deeper appreciation for life, often more valuable than material success. * Cultural Exposure Builds Empathy – Engaging with different cultures fosters empathy, respect, and a broader worldview that enriches both personal and professional life. * Presence Over Productivity – Living in the moment, setting boundaries, and disconnecting from technology can lead to more meaningful experiences and relationships. * Family & Connection Through Travel – Creating shared travel experiences strengthens family bonds and encourages exploration beyond daily routines. * Flexibility Sparks Opportunity – Embracing spontaneity and simplicity—in both travel and work—can lead to unexpected joy, creative breakthroughs, and affordable adventures. Where to Connect with Nick https://www.linkedin.com/in/nbstagge/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nbstagge/] Thanks for reading A Bit of Curiosity! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abitofcuriosity.substack.com [https://abitofcuriosity.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Hiking Very Long Miles with The Real Hiking Viking

In 2015 I briefly met Thomas, aka The Real Hiking Viking, at Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City. It was there that Altra began sponsoring his journey that has taken him over thousands of miles and many pairs of shoes later. It was a pleasure to catch up with him in this latest episode. In this episode, I interview Thomas 'Jaba' Gathman, known as the Real Hiking Viking. We explore Thomas's journey from a military background to becoming a passionate thru-hiker. The discussion covers the essence of thru-hiking, personal transformations experienced on the trail, and the mindfulness that comes with long-distance hiking. Thanks for reading A Bit of Curiosity! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. ‘Jaba’ shares insights about the hiking community, the challenges of the Appalachian Trail, and the freedom found in living a minimalist lifestyle while exploring nature. In this conversation, he shares his experiences with long-distance hiking, discussing the evolution of technology in the hiking community, the challenges faced while completing the Triple Crown of hiking, and the cultural insights gained from hiking the Jordan Trail. He reflects on the differences between past and present hiking experiences, the physical and mental challenges of long-distance hikes, and the importance of cultural immersion in outdoor adventures. In this conversation, ‘Jaba’ shares his experiences hiking the Jordan Trail, reflecting on the unique landscapes, cultural significance, and personal connections he made along the way. He discusses the contrasts between his previous hiking experiences and the slower, more immersive journey he had in Jordan. The conversation also touches on his future adventures, including aspirations to complete the Triple Crown of bikepacking and his ongoing work with backpack prototypes. Key Takeaways * Transformative Power of Hiking – Long-distance hikes like the Appalachian Trail and Jordan Trail offer personal growth, freedom, and deep self-reflection through time in nature. * Community & Culture – The hiking community is supportive and diverse, with cultural experiences—like those in Jordan—adding richness and perspective to the journey. * Mindset Matters – Embracing the “hike your own hike” philosophy highlights the individuality of the experience, where physical and mental challenges lead to personal breakthroughs. * Preparation & Evolution – Hiking gear and strategies have evolved, yet planning styles vary widely; injuries and unexpected obstacles are part of the learning curve. * Media & Marketing in Adventure – From listening to podcasts on the trail to promoting tourism through hikes, media plays a role in shaping and sharing outdoor experiences. * Expanding Horizons – Aspirations like completing the Triple Crown of hiking—or bikepacking—demonstrate how adventure continues to grow and evolve beyond each trail. Where to Follow The Real Hiking Viking https://www.instagram.com/therealhikingviking [https://www.instagram.com/therealhikingviking] http://therealhikingviking.com/ [http://therealhikingviking.com/] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abitofcuriosity.substack.com [https://abitofcuriosity.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]