Who you vote for in the 2024 US Presidential election matters little if you don't live in Maine, Nebraska, or a battleground state.  If you want to be highly pedantic and annoying, you could argue that your vote matters even in non-swing states like California. That's because if most Californian Democrats conspired not to vote, a Republican would win even though the polls heavily favor the Democrat. However, if you live in the real, realistic world, my point is accurate on a practical level. Watch the video of this podcast!  What do you think about what I say in the video? Am I full of shit? In the video, I mention abortion. Watch my video that proves that abortion has nothing to do with morals or morality. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in. Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Niamh McAnally's memoir, Following Sunshine: A Voyage Around the Mind, Around the World, Around the Heart, offers readers a rich tapestry of travel, personal growth, and introspection. This book transcends the typical travelogue by intertwining McAnally's adventures with profound reflections on her life experiences, including themes of loss, self-discovery, and resilience. Watch the Video Interview!   Overview of the Book Following Sunshine takes readers on an enthralling journey through various landscapes, from the lush jungles of Fiji to the serene beaches of Vanuatu. McAnally's narrative is not just about her travels; it delves deeply into her struggles, including dealing with loss, divorce, and financial hardships. Her expressive language vividly captures the beauty of the locations she visits and the emotional transitions she experiences, making her reflections relatable to a broad audience. Themes and Style McAnally's writing combines elements of travel, adventure, and self-help. She shares her experiences in diverse settings—participating in turtle conservation in Vanuatu and reflecting on local customs—while confronting complex personal topics such as childhood trauma and uncertainty about the future. This blend creates a compelling backdrop for her reflections on love, loss, and the human impact on ecosystems. The memoir is "a riveting adventure with a touch of romance," keeping readers engaged with its twists and emotional depth. She is confident and self-aware, echoing throughout her stories of solo travel and constant change. Her ability to articulate moments of revelation is honest without being overly dramatic. Reader Reception The reception of Following Sunshine has been overwhelmingly positive. Readers have highlighted its ability to evoke deep emotional responses, often finding themselves moved to tears by McAnally's storytelling. Many appreciate her inviting them to reflect on their lives while sharing her journey. The book has been described as a testament to the power of storytelling in understanding oneself and one's past. Conclusion In summary, Following Sunshine is more than just a memoir; it is an invitation to explore the world and one's inner self. Niamh McAnally's unique voice and perspective resonate throughout her narrative, making it recommended for anyone interested in travel, personal growth, or simply seeking inspiration through storytelling. The book promises to leave a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in. Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

On the 100th anniversary of George Mallory and Sandy Irvine's death on Mount Everest, I interviewed Dr. Robert Edwards, author of Mallory, Irvine, and Everest: The Last Step But One, which reexamined their mysterious story in extreme detail. Watch my original interview with Dr. Edwards, my most popular interview in 2024. It provides an excellent background for today's interview. Today, Dr. Edwards returns to the WanderLearn Show to discuss Jimmy Chin's surprising October 2024 announcement that he found Andrew Comyn Irvine's foot! Andrew Irvine's nickname was Sandy. Watch the Video Photo by National Geographic Image copyright: National Geographic National Geographic sponsored the expedition and announced the momentous news. The rest of Sandy's body has not been found yet. Sandy died 100 years ago. In 1960, Chinese climber Wang Fuzhou claimed he spotted a dead European climber who had to be Sandy Irvine. Assuming that sighting was accurate, nobody has seen Irvine since then ... until now. Famed mountaineer and photographer Jimmy Chin found Sandy's foot inside the 100-year-old boot.  Robert Edwards wrote his initial impressions of Sandy's discovery on Goodreads.  In this interview, we delve into greater detail, including the map Dr. Edwards made: In the podcast, I struggled to understand why Dr. Edwards thought Sandy's foot may have been found either in pin v1 or v2.  After the interview, I reflected more carefully and realized that the Central Rongbuk Glacier is sliding west (right in the image). I initially assumed it was sliding north (down the image). Excerpt of Dr. Edwards's Goodreads post I can think of at least two scenarios which are consistent with the new discovery: • On June 8, 1924, Irvine fell from somewhere on the North Face of Everest to the head of the Central Rongbuk Glacier. If so, it seems to me that, given the topography of Mount Everest, the start of that fall had to be either within, or to the west of, the Norton Couloir. In that case, Irvine fell at least 500 meters to the west of where Mallory's body was found. • On June 8, 1924, Irvine became immobilised or died in the place where on May 24 or 25, 1960, the Chinese mountaineer Wang Fu-zhou would see the body of “a European in braces” [for North Americans: suspenders]. The Chinese route was along the Northeast Ridge. According to reports of a speech in Leningrad in 1965, Wang saw the body at 8,600 meters (28,215 feet): that is, between the Second Step and the Third Step. If so, the body could only be that of Irvine; and he had died on the descent. In this scenario, at some unknowable date after 1960, natural events carried Irvine's body down the mountain to the head of the glacier. In both scenarios, the implacable creep of the ice carried part of Irvine's remains to the place where Jimmy Chin found them in September 2024. The first scenario excludes the second: for if in 1924 Irvine fell to the glacier, Wang Fu-zhou in 1960 could not have seen a body of any kind at 8,600 meters. No doubt, other scenarios are conceivable. What next? Undoubtedly, the China-Tibet Mountaineering Association will conduct an expedition to find the rest of Irvine’s body and any artifacts associated with it; or will permit National Geographic to undertake such an endeavour. The search could possibly be made before the winter; otherwise, the next window will probably be the spring of 2025. Irvine’s body and artifacts will surely be found. The Chinese authorities also have the opportunity to examine Irvine’s boot for rock particles, which might reveal where he had been before he died. (As far as I can determine, Mallory’s boots were never tested in this way.) In either event, we may then know more about the last climb of Mallory and Irvine. Dr. Edwards added in an email to me: In case I didn't explain clearly the difference between the two pins in the Google Earth image: pin v1 is based on ice velocity of 10 meters/year; pin v2 is based on ice velocity of 27 meters/year (based on a range of Chinese estimates for the East Rongbuk Glaicier). In both cases, the pin assumes movement of the remains over 100 years, i.e. assuming that Irvine fell all the way to the glacier in 1924. So Pin v1 is 1,000 meters downstream; pin v2 is 2,700 meters downstream. If Irvine's remains fell after 1960 (which, given Wang's sighting, I'm inclined to think more probable), both pins would be much closer to the head of the glacier. Pin v1 would be at most 640 meters downstream; pin v2 would be at most 1,728 meters downstream. Both pins hug the western rim of the glacier, since I'm inclined to think that objects starting near the rim will remain near the rim. (A glaciologist would know.)   More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in. Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Eric Gilbertson is back! Eric Gilbertson and Branden Joy dragged 400 pounds (180 kg) of gear on 4 sleds across Greenland. They covered 1,539 miles (1,420 snow kiting, 119 man hauling) in 40 days. On his biggest day, he covered 218 miles kiting. His fastest kiting speed was 33mph. They did 4 first ascents. Read Eric Gilbertson's Greenland traverse trip report. Krisli Melesk co-hosted this show with me. She and I were in awe of Eric's accomplishments. Watch the Video Interview  

Everyone loves coincidences. During my month in Estonia, I bumbled into Krisli Melesk, who bumbled into Eric Gilbertson on K2. Eric & I were scheduled to record a podcast a few days after I met Krisli, so I invited her to join the show as a surprise guest!  Eric Gilbertson is in the process of climbing to the highest point in every country. He's done 143 out of 193! This is first of a two-part series, featuring Eric & Krisli. Subscribe to get next week's episode where we will discuss Eric kite surfing across Greenland! You must listen to my first two interviews with Eric Gilbertson! Krisli Melesk is also remarkable. She deserves her own episode and book! Her list of adventures is long and mind-blowing. We only delved into a couple of her countless adventures in this episode. In this episode, we focus on K2 and Everest, especially their joint experience on K2. Although they didn't climb K2 on the same team, they met on K2 and summitted a few days apart. We end the show by talking about Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, with an elevation of 28,169 feet (8,586 metres). It is situated in the eastern Himalayas on the border between Sikkim state, northeastern India, and eastern Nepal, 46 miles (74 km) north-northwest of Darjiling, Sikkim. We discuss why Eric was able to summit Kanchenjunga and Krisli was not. Note: In the show, I refer to Krisli as "Kris," but the automatic subtitle generator on the video transcribed her name as "Chris." Also, I apologize for the mediocre audio quality. We had tech issues. Watch the Video   Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Palle Bo is from Denmark, which controls Greenland. He's been to Greenland twice, and I was blessed to visit it in 2024. We share our thoughts. Palle hosts the Radio Vagabond podcast! Subscribe to it! Enjoy other Palle Bo episodes!  Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

What kind of traveler are you? Palle Bo and I discuss the variety of travel styles and the myth of how people who have been to many countries travel. Palle hosts the Radio Vagabond podcast! Subscribe to it! Enjoy our other episodes together! Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

I share reflections on last night's Harris-Trump Debate in the first two minutes of this podcast. In the rest of the podcast, I review Yuval Noah Harari's newest book. Harari is one of my top three favorite authors. I also love Bill Bryson and Walter Isaacson. Therefore, I was thrilled that a few months ago, I got an advanced copy of Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI, which launches today, September 10, 2024.  It's a 515-page book but is filled with headers over its 11 chapters, making it modular and readable. I also reviewed his previous book, 21 Lessons for the 21st Century. I loved Nexus, although Homo Deus is still my favorite Harari book. Nexus explores the evolution of information networks from prehistoric times to the present, focusing mainly on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on society.  Outline There are 3 parts: Part 1: Human Networks focuses on history and how information went from clay tablets to silicon. Part 2: The Inorganic Network focuses on the internet age and the birth of AI. It discusses how computers differ from printing presses and how the information networks are relentless and fallible. Part 3: Computer Politics focuses on how AI will enter every aspect of our lives, governments, and businesses. He discusses democracies, totalitarianism, and the Silicon Curtain (how China and the West have different internets and AIs). Overview and Themes In Nexus, Harari argues that human history has been profoundly shaped by our ability to create and share narratives, which he identifies as the foundation of our social structures. He posits that information networks—from oral traditions to the internet—serve as the "glue" that holds societies together. The book emphasizes the dual nature of information: while it can foster cooperation and understanding, it can also propagate falsehoods and manipulation, particularly in the age of AI. Nexus is more urgent and personal than Harari's previous works. It tackles contemporary issues related to AI, warning about its potential to manipulate human behavior without direct control.  Harari connects historical developments, such as the rise of farming and cities, to the evolution of information networks.  Nexus mixes historical analysis and philosophical reflection with Harari's trademark ability to provoke thought about the implications of modern technology. His exploration of how AI could reshape human existence is captivating and unsettling, prompting you to reconsider your relationship with technology. One fascinating observation is that governments used to spend 80% of their budgets on the military. Today, they spend about 10% on the military and more on healthcare.  Critique Harari makes the same error that many nonfiction books do: they spend 95% of the book complaining and 5% of the time discussing the solution. Conclusion Happily, Harari isn't bleak or hopeless. He isn't overly pessimistic about our future. He believes we're at a critical crossroads, akin to when Christian scholars decided what books would make it into the Bible. What we do today will have an impact forever. Totalitarianism loves AI's ability to survey and process data to keep the population in check. However, totalitarianism hates that AI is a black box that is unpredictable and hard to control. Totalitarianism may become dependent on AI to make wise decisions, and it may falter, especially if the AI doesn't do what's best for the totalitarian leader. Harari believes that democracy will triumph over totalitarianism because democracy is self-correcting and open to criticism. It's constantly adjusting to the wisdom of the crowds, whereas totalitarianism is rigid.  Ultimately, he believes that strong, wise institutions will help us incorporate the best of AI while avoiding its follies and dangers. Nexus contributes to the discourse on AI and its societal implications. While it may not achieve the same universal acclaim as Harari's earlier works, like Sapiens or Homo Deus, it offers a compelling examination of how information networks have evolved and the urgent questions they raise for the future. Readers looking for a blend of history, philosophy, and contemporary relevance will find much to ponder in Harari's latest offering. After my verdict, I have included some excerpts from the book so you can get a feel for what it covers. VERDICT: 9 out of 10 stars. Excerpts To conclude, the new computer network will not necessarily be either bad or good. All we know for sure is that it will be alien and it will be fallible. We therefore need to build institutions that will be able to check not just familiar human weaknesses like greed and hatred but also radically alien errors. There is no technological solution to this problem. It is, rather, a political challenge. Do we have the political will to deal with it? Modern humanity has created two main types of political systems: large-scale democracy and large-scale totalitarianism. ========== Another common but mistaken assumption is that creativity is unique to humans so it would be difficult to automate any job that requires creativity. ========== third mistaken assumption is that computers couldn’t replace humans in jobs requiring emotional intelligence, from therapists to teachers. ========== If it means the ability to correctly identify emotions and react to them in an optimal way, then computers may well outperform humans even in emotional intelligence. Emotions too are patterns. ========== Actually, computers may outperform humans in recognizing human emotions, precisely because they have no emotions of their own. We yearn to be understood, but other humans often fail to understand how we feel, because they are too preoccupied with their own feelings. In contrast, computers will have an exquisitely fine-tuned understanding of how we feel, because they will learn to recognize the patterns of our feelings, while they have no distracting feelings of their own. ========== Actually, computers may outperform humans in recognizing human emotions, precisely because they have no emotions of their own. We yearn to be understood, but other humans often fail to understand how we feel, because they are too preoccupied with their own feelings. In contrast, computers will have an exquisitely fine-tuned understanding of how we feel, because they will learn to recognize the patterns of our feelings, while they have no distracting feelings of their own. A 2023 study found that the ChatGPT chatbot, for example, outperforms the average human in the emotional awareness it displays toward specific scenarios. ========== If three years of high unemployment could bring Hitler to power, what might never-ending turmoil in the job market do to democracy? ========== The most important human skill for surviving the twenty-first century is likely to be flexibility, and democracies are more flexible than totalitarian regimes. ========== The rise of unfathomable alien intelligence undermines democracy. If more and more decisions about people’s lives are made in a black box, so voters cannot understand and challenge them, democracy ceases to function. ========== Power lies at the nexus where the information channels merge. ========== For most of recorded history, the military was the number one item on the budget of every empire, sultanate, kingdom, and republic. ========== For many people in the 2010s, the fact that the health-care budget was bigger than the military budget was unremarkable. But it was the result of a major change in human behavior, and one that would have sounded impossible to most previous generations. ========== It places a heavy responsibility on all of us to make good choices. It implies that if human civilization is consumed by conflict, we cannot blame it on any law of nature or any alien technology. ========== It places a heavy responsibility on all of us to make good choices. It implies that if human civilization is consumed by conflict, we cannot blame it on any law of nature or any alien technology. It also implies that if we make the effort, we can create a better world. ========== It places a heavy responsibility on all of us to make good choices. It implies that if human civilization is consumed by conflict, we cannot blame it on any law of nature or any alien technology. It also implies that if we make the effort, we can create a better world. This isn’t naïveté; it’s realism. ========== The invention of AI is potentially more momentous than the invention of the telegraph, the printing press, or even writing, because AI is the first tool that is capable of making decisions and generating ideas by itself. ========== The good news is that if we eschew complacency and despair, we are capable of creating balanced information networks that will keep their own power in check. Doing so is not a matter of inventing another miracle technology or landing upon some brilliant idea that has somehow escaped all previous generations. Rather, to create wiser networks, we must abandon both the naive and the populist views of information, put aside our fantasies of infallibility, and commit ourselves to the hard and rather mundane work of building institutions with strong self-correcting mechanisms. That is perhaps the most important takeaway this book has to offer. ========== This wisdom is much older than human history. It is elemental, the foundation of organic life. The first organisms weren’t created by some infallible genius or god. They emerged through an intricate process of trial and error. Over four billion years, ever more complex mechanisms of mutation and self-correction led to the evolution of trees, dinosaurs, jungles, and eventually humans. Now we have summoned an alien inorganic intelligence that could escape our control and put in danger not just our own species but countless other life-forms. The decisions we all make in the coming years will determine whether summoning this alien intelligence proves to be a terminal error or the beginning of a hopeful new chapter in the evolution of life.

Radio Vagabond Host Palle Bo shares the meaning of his name in various languages.  We share what we've been doing since we last met in Thailand. Lastly, Palle shares why it's worth revisiting countries that gave you a negative impression the first time. Palle hosts the Radio Vagabond podcast! Subscribe to it! Enjoy other Palle Bo episodes!  Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

In 2022, I delivered this speech at the inaugural Extraordinary Travel Festival in Yerevan, Armenia. Watch the Video to See the Slides! I was the only in-person speaker invited to speak again at the 2nd conference. Why? Because the audience rated this speech highly. Judge for yourself. Come to hear me deliver a new speech at the 2nd Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand, in mid-November 2024! Reserve your seat! Timeline 00:00 Africa trip overview 03:00 Communicating 04:30 Picking up 3000 hitchhikers 10:00 Meeting Rejoice 12:55 Chad's tallest peak - Emi Koussi 18:00 Libya's tallest mountain - Bikku Bitti 27:00 South Sudan's tallest peak - Kinyeti 30:00 Sudan's tallest mountain - Jebel Marra 34:00 Four Lessons 40:00 Q&A  Feedback Leave an anonymous voicemail on SpeakPipe.com/FTapon Or go to Wanderlearn.com, click on this episode, and write a comment. More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Watch the 3-minute video of what it's like to feed and kiss elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand.  In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! TIMELINE 00:00 Intro 00:23 Feeding bananas 01:15 Kissing 02:10 Hung   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHW-9M4Vrc4 Ric and I talked in Thailand about Thai hospitality, international marriages, and the November 2024 Extraordinary Travel Festival! In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! TIMELINE 00:00 Why Ric lives in Thailand 01:17 Sincerity of Thai hospitality 04:00 International marriages 07:00 ETF 2 #thailand #ETF2 #travel   

Palle Bo and I met in Toronto this week to discuss the global hot spots and the US election. We chat about Harris vs. Trump, Ukraine, Taiwan, and Gaza. Palle has been to Taiwan and recently went to Ukraine, near the front lines. As an outsider, he's bewildered by the US election. We recorded this a day before Harris picked her VP, Walz. Please subscribe to Palle's Radio Vagabond podcast! Enjoy other Palle Bo episodes!  More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.  

Every country has been colonized or occupied, including Thailand. However, Thailand is one of the handful of countries that did not get formally colonized for an extended period.  Why? How? I answer that question in this 2-minute video. In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand!   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.  

In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! Watch the video of this episode! For good reason, Thailand is called the Land of the Smiles: the Thais smile easily and often! It reminds me of Africans or Latin Americans. However, how sincere is that smile? As I wrapped up my Thailand tour, I reflected on that question. What do you think? More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

ERROR: At the start and end of this video, I say that the Carnival Magic amusement park is in BANGKOK. That's WRONG! It's in PHUKET, Thailand. I'm sorry for the error. There is no Carnival Magic in Bangkok. I should have known better since I filmed all the footage in this video! Phuket is a 12-hour drive or 75-minute flight from Bangkok.  In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! Carnival Magic is a massive Thai cultural carnival theme park in Phuket, Thailand. It is the world's first Thai carnival theme park, spanning over 40 acres and featuring dazzling lights, colors, and imagery celebrating Thailand's rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals.[1][2] Key Features - Inspired by exotic carnivals worldwide, Carnival Magic presents breathtaking evening celebrations, regal pageantry, and cultural fun unmatched by any other show.[1] - It features the world's longest parade float on a gigantic 70-meter stage in a 2,200-seat theater.[3] - The park boasts the world's largest light and sound show, the world's largest LED sculpture, and the world's tallest popcorn machine.[3] - Illuminated by 40 million lights in a dazzling display of colors and vibes, offering an extraordinary experience.[3] - Holds 9 Guinness World Records, making it Thailand's most awarded company by the Guinness World Record Organization.[3] History and Development - Envisioned in 2003 by the parent company Phuket FantaSea, to create a fantasyland celebrating Thai culture and traditions.[3] - Construction was halted and restarted 3 times due to the 2004 tsunami, the late 2000s recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic.[3] - Finally unveiled in 2022 after persistent efforts, with an investment of over $150 million, making it the largest theme park development in Thailand.[3] Carnival Magic offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing Thailand's vibrant culture through spectacular shows, parades, and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for local and international visitors.[1][2][3][4][5] Citations: [1] https://www.carnivalmagic.fun/eng/ [2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvzScwzVfhU [3] https://www.carnivalmagic.fun/eng/about.php [4] https://www.tourismthailand.org/Entertainment/carnival-magic [5] https://www.tripadvisor.ca/AttractionProductReview-g293920-d25008237-Carnival_Magic_Theme_Park_in_Thailand-Phuket.html 999 Moo 3 Kamala Kathu Phuket 83150  Call : +66 76 385 555 Email : [email protected]  

  If there was ever a podcast where you're better off seeing the video, this is it! It features lots of footage that I shot the first time I visited. In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! Timeline 00:00 Intro 00:50 History 03:05 Temples 04:10  Islands 05:38 Snorkeling, SCUBA diving, & fish 07:15 Lodging 08:15 People 09:00 Dance & nightlife This video gives you an exciting overview of Thailand! You'll learn about Thailand's history, beaches, aquatic sea life, temples, languages, culture, nightlife, and dancing. Subscribe to watch my video kissing a Thai elephant! Video script Welcome to the Land of Smiles! Thailand is a country that tantalizes your taste buds, tickles your senses, and leaves you wondering if you’ve accidentally stepped into a vibrant dream. Thailand has got to be one of the most aptly named countries on the planet. The “Land of Smiles” delivers grins at every turn with its beautiful scenery, delightfully eccentric cultural experiences, and some of the most blissed-out, friendly people you’ll ever encounter. Just be prepared for lots of bewildered head-scratching and delighted laughter as you embrace the organized chaos and tongue-in-cheek whimsy that makes traveling here such an endlessly entertaining adventure. A History with More Spice Than Your Pad Thai Thailand boasts a history as rich and complex as a bowl of tom yum soup. Kingdoms rose and fell, leaving behind a trail of magnificent temples and enough intrigue to make a soap opera jealous. We won’t bore you with dates (because, let’s face it, remembering your anniversary is hard enough), but here’s the gist: powerful empires, epic battles fought on elephant back (seriously!), and a whole lot of cultural exchange. The Thais like to refer to their nation as the “Land of the Free” since they proudly managed to avoid getting colonized by myopic European powers who were too distracted trying to invent terrible ideas like bloodsports and obesity. The origins of this glorious nation trace back to the ancient Sukhothai kingdom, which ruled large swaths of present-day Thailand from the 13th to 15th centuries and essentially laid the groundwork for all the mischief to come. They invented the Thai alphabet, converted the nation to Theravada Buddhism (a spirituality that preaches detachment yet somehow birthed the Muay Thai boxing culture), and kick-started a prolific period of temple construction that persists today. Thailand maintained a rich, quirky cultural identity through a delightfully convoluted pageant of kingdoms and capitals. Thailand’s history is like a spicy curry – full of twists, turns, and unexpected ingredients. Imagine a time when Ayutthaya was the New York City of Southeast Asia, bustling with trade, culture, and probably a few epic food fights. Then came the Burmese invasion, like a hangry Godzilla stomping through the city. But fear not! The Thais rebuilt, and today, Ayutthaya’s ruins are a testament to resilience and the importance of investing in sturdy walls. Thailand’s history is as colorful as its temples and diverse as its cuisine. From ancient civilizations to modern-day monarchy, this country has seen it all. Fast forward to today, and Thailand is a vibrant mix of tradition and modern life. You’ll find glittering skyscrapers sharing the skyline with ancient temples, monks in saffron robes browsing smartphones, and grandmothers selling mango-sticky rice beside sleek cafes. The Grand Palace complex is a must-see if only to check off “tour the wildly ornate milieu of one of the world’s most eccentric, propaganda-addicted royal dynasties” from your bucket list. The palace grounds feature the famous Emerald Buddha sculpture - a diminutive jade figure that looks like something you’d win at a county fair but is priceless to Buddhists. Nearby sits the aptly named Wat Pho, home to the epic Reclining Buddha statue that’s so colossal you half expect it to pop up and start rapping about all the golden donuts it ate. Temples and Religion: Where Buddha Takes Center Stage Thailand has more temples than there are grains of sand on its beaches. Wat Pho’s reclining Buddha is so chill it’s practically horizontal. And the Grand Palace? It’s like a wedding cake made of gold and gemstones. As for religion, Thais blend Buddhism with a dash of animism, like adding chili to mango sticky rice. It’s a spiritual cocktail that keeps the universe in balance. Thailand is steeped in Buddhism, and the magnificent temples testify to the country’s rich spiritual heritage. Wat Pho will leave you speechless with its reclining Buddha and towering golden chedis. In Ayutthaya, explore the crumbling ruins of ancient temples, remnants of a once-great kingdom. Island Hopping: The Aquatic Adventure Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the islands! Thailand’s coastline is dotted with gems – Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Krabi – each offering a slice of paradise. But getting there is half the fun (or mild terror, depending on your seafaring tolerance). Imagine yourself crammed onto a longtail boat, the wind whipping through your hair (and possibly carrying off your hat). The turquoise water stretches out before you, but don’t get too mesmerized – keep an eye out for the inevitable spray that might leave you looking like a contestant on Wipeout. Thai’s islands are like a buffet of paradise, and you’re the hungry traveler with a plate (or boat) to fill. The joy of island hopping is like speed dating with beaches – each has its personality. Some are shy and secluded, while others flaunt limestone cliffs and party vibes. And let’s not forget the snorkeling – it’s like attending a marine masquerade ball, where fish wear sequined scales and dance to the rhythm of the tides. The Andaman islands like Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, Ko Lanta, and Ko Lipe have appeared on approximately one zillion desktop wallpaper screensavers with their sugar sand beaches, cliffs of swirled limestone karsts, and forests of coconut trees casually minding their own bad hair day business. Offshore, the islands offer some of planet Earth’s most insane snorkeling and diving thanks to absurdly vibrant coral reefs and a psychedelically promiscuous marine life community. Marine Life: More Than Just Nemo The minute you slip beneath the waves in Thailand, you enter a technicolor wonderland. Let’s talk fish – we’re not talking goldfish crackers here. You’ve got graceful angelfish gliding by and maybe even the occasional grumpy-looking moray eel poking out of a hole. For the more adventurous, vibrant coral reefs are teeming with life. Picture schools of shimmering blue tangs, trumpetfish with their Pinocchio noses, and perhaps a majestic manta ray gliding past like a giant underwater spaceship. Underwater, Thailand’s marine life is a kaleidoscope of colors. The Phi Phi islands have emerged as the undisputed snorkelers’ playground thanks to their rockin’ reefs populated by residents like the omnipresent clownfish–yup, the one that found Nemo – but also the elusive seahorse, basically the James Bond of the sea. And then there’s the triggerfish, with a face only a mother could love. But hey, beauty is subjective, right? The coral reefs are like underwater cities, bustling with activity. Remember, don’t touch the coral – it’s like graffiti on the Mona Lisa. With 4000 km of coastline, Thailand’s incredibly biodiverse marine ecosystems delight snorkelers, divers, and beachgoers alike. The warm, clear waters of the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand allow optimal visibility to witness vivid coral gardens and drifting schools of tropical fish. Some of the most colorful aquatic life you may spot includes the electric blue-and-yellow regal angelfish, the aptly named clownfish darting in and out of swaying anemones, vibrant parrotfish, and powder blue tang swimming through staghorn coral mazes. Stay very still, and you may even catch sight of free-swimming moray eels slithering across the reefs or skillfully camouflaged scorpionfish. Luxury Hotels: Where Dreams Come True (and Wallets Cry) Craving a touch of luxury after your island adventure? Thailand has you covered. We’re talking opulent beachfront resorts with infinity pools that seem to melt into the horizon, private plunge pools big enough to host a pool party, and service so good you might start questioning your ability to tie your own shoes. The best part? These luxury digs won’t leave you needing a second mortgage. Thailand offers incredible value for money, so you can live like royalty without needing to win the lottery. Thailand’s luxury hotels redefine opulence. Imagine waking up in a floating villa. Or sipping champagne in a rooftop pool overlooking Bangkok’s skyline – it’s like swimming in liquid stardust. And the spa treatments? They’re so relaxing, you’ll forget your own name. Friendly People: Hugs, Smiles, and Tuk-Tuk Negotiations Thais are the friendliest folks on this side of the Milky Way. They’ll greet you with a wai (a respectful bow) and feed you until you waddle.. Thais are renowned for their hospitality, their smiles as warm and welcoming as a bowl of khao tom (chicken rice soup – trust us, it’s amazing). Communication might be a challenge sometimes but don’t worry, a little game of charades goes a long way. Plus, the locals often appreciate the effort, rewarding you with a hearty laugh and maybe even a discount on that souvenir elephant keychain. Of course, there’s always the grumpy taxi driver, the one who seems to have forgotten the “Land of Smiles” motto. But hey, even grumpy adds flavor to the experience, right? Dance Performances and Entertainment: Hip-Shaking Extravaganza Thailand’s dance performances are like a fusion of Cirque du Soleil and a tropical storm. The traditional khon dance tells epic tales of gods, demons, and love triangles. Meanwhile, the ladyboys of Pattaya leave you questioning your hip flexibility. And the nightlife? It’s a neon jungle where cocktails flow like waterfalls, and neon signs promise enlightenment (or at least a blurry selfie). Thailand’s nightlife is as vibrant as the orchids at every market. Want to be dazzled by elaborate dance performances with glittering costumes and gravity-defying moves? Head to a cabaret show – just be prepared to have your gender stereotypes playfully challenged by the stunning ladyboys. For something a little more low-key, wander through a night market, where you’ll find street performers juggling fire, musicians filling the air with soulful melodies, and puppet shows that will transport you back to your childhood. So there you have it – Thailand, where elephants roam, tuk-tuks zigzag, and every street corner smells like a stir-fry adventure. Pack your sense of humor, an empty stomach, and an extra pair of flip-flops – you’re in for a wild ride! 🌴🌞🐘 Disclaimer: Lonely Planet may or may not endorse this guidebook. But hey, who needs endorsements when you’ve got coconut ice cream? 🍦 More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

To celebrate my 300th WanderLearn podcast episode, I'm sharing my most popular episode. If you like the nuanced way I tackle the controversial subject of hunting, be sure to go to the bottom of this page and follow the links to hear the other episodes I've done related to hunting. In 2018, Brittany Hosmer Longoria was swept up in a social media firestorm with these trending hashtags: #disgusting #cuntress #findThisBitch #huntTheHunter #Monstress #immoral #murderHer #KillHer #poacher What had she done to induce such a vicious reaction? The surprising answer is nothing that remarkable. What she had done was to hunt a leopard in Namibia and take a photo of her holding the dead leopard. Here's why that's unremarkable: First, she was not a poacher. She spent nearly $40,000 to get all the permits to legally hunt that old male leopard. I could understand that people would get worked up if she were a poacher. She was not. She did everything by the book. Nobody disagrees with that. Second, she didn't post the photo on Instagram. She submitted it to the Safari Club International (SCI) when they solicited photos that exhibited a "hunting heritage." She uploaded the photo to SCI's private server. SCI would evaluate these photos. But before they could, an animal activist got a hold of the photo and released it to the public.  In other words, it's not like Brittany illegally shot a leopard and then bragged about it.  On the contrary, she went through all the legal steps and took a pretty standard post-hunt photo. This sort of thing happens thousands of times every day, so what Brittany did was thoroughly unremarkable.  Therefore, it's a bit hard to understand why she, out of all the legal hunters who post photos of their trophies, would get targeted by social media harshly. I met with her in 2019 at the SCI conference to talk with Brittany. Listen to this podcast and tell me your thoughts in the comments below. Although I met her briefly, she's clearly a shy and humble person. Introverts dislike the spotlight. I commend her for her courage in facing the spotlight to dispel some myths and misunderstandings about hunting. I warned her that I would hit her hard with tough and uncomfortable questions, which a journalist must do to capture all sides of a story. Indeed, you'll hear that at one point in the interview, she nearly shuts down, seemingly exhausted by my barrage of questions. As always, she kept her cool and composure, which her hysterical enemies often do not. I commend Brittany. Moreover, I wanted to give her a chance to answer some thought-provoking and provocative questions that people who dislike hunting may have. Meanwhile, people who hate hunting should listen to her pro-hunting arguments. Many people who have a knee-jerk adverse reaction to hunting have never given much thought to it. Ignorance leads to misunderstandings. So if you hate hunting, listen to this podcast. I don't expect to convert you. In fact, I am not even trying to convert anyone to anything. I just like to promote listening and the calm exchange of ideas. I am a part-time vegan (I only eat animals when I'm traveling or when I'm a guest at someone's house). So I'm not a hunter. However, I believe many people who disapprove of hunting don't see the nuance in this complex subject. I don't claim to be an expert. I just like to listen and learn. I hope you do too. If so, share this episode and comment below. If you want to leave a comment, here's a tip: the less emotional and savage your comment is, the more convincing it will be. Scream and swear often if you want to turn people off from your argument. I know, this is the Internet, so we're all supposed to get outraged about everything. But please try to act like a grown-up. Here is a funny and educational video about the subject https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQh-f1rBjx4 What about Green Hunts? The hardest question I didn't ask Britt Longoria during the podcast is why she doesn't do Green Hunts. I didn't ask that question because I didn't think about it, but a couple of people asked me after the interview.  A Green Hunt is when you shoot an animal with a tranquilizer instead of deadly ammunition. After the podcast, I asked Britt if she could answer the question. She wrote her response and here are the highlights of what she said.  Green Hunts are much cheaper than normal hunts. Killing one white rhino costs $60,000 versus $7,500 for a Green Hunt of the white rhino. She wrote, "Although a green hunt would be an exciting adventure, there is a lack of hunting fulfillment and intent, which is hard to describe to people who have not experienced the full cycle of a hunt." Britt concludes, "During a green hunt, there is a whole entourage of people participating, rather than the meditative qualities of a private or solo hunt. The intent of a green hunt would be different as well for science, sport, or entertainment; rather than the profoundly emotive process that may or may not end in harvest after a traditional hunt. I support both practices; however, I would not be able to compare the two experiences as the same." Britt hasn't tried a green hunt, so I think she should try before she concludes that they're a big difference between the two. She might learn that the difference isn't as big as she theorized.  And even if she does feel that there's a big difference, not all hunters may agree with her. Britt observes that Green Hunts have a bigger entourage than a normal hunt. I could see how that could be annoying or distracting. Still, I imagine there is a HUGE difference between hunting ALONE and hunting with a buddy. In other words, if you graph the intensity of the hunting experience with # of hunters on the X-axis and intensity on the Y-axis, you would get an asymptotic line that flattens out when you have 5+ hunters. In regular hunts, you usually have an entourage of at least three (driver, guide/PH, and hunter). You often have another hunting buddy, a skinner, or an armed government official. So you have 3-6 folks on a traditional hunt. Let's say you have twice that on a green hunt. I've never been on either hunt, but I imagine there's not THAT much of a difference between having 5 or 10 folks on your hunt. But it must be MUCH different whether you are ALONE versus having one buddy. And there's a pretty big difference going from 2 hunters versus 3-4 hunters. That's why I say the graph is an asymptote. What do you think about Green Hunts? BONUS #1: Listen to my wife and I debate Brittany Longoria and hunting.  BONUS #2: A year after this interview, I followed up with Longoria for a second interview. BONUS #3: If you found this podcast intriguing and profound, listen to my podcast with the Director of Conservation at Safari Club International. Lastly, at the end of this podcast, Brittany mentioned that she is on Instagram but that it's private. Recently, Brittany Longoria made her Instagram page public from private.   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

I interviewed Michael Zervos in Cote d'Ivoire a few months ago. He was 10% done with his every-country-speed tour.  I interviewed him today, June 27, when he's halfway done! Watch the Video In the second half of the show, Michael Zervos reflects on Africa. 00:00 Intro 03:30 Sudan 07:00 Africa   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Here are two episodes featuring Margaret Bensfield Sullivan, author of Following the Sun: Tales (and Fails) From a Year Around the World With Our Kids.  Margaret spent a year traveling to 29 countries on six continents with her husband and their two young kids. How did she do it? What did she learn? What advice does she have for traveling parents with young children? Watch the Video 00:00 Africa 02:50 Is a travel agent necessary? 04:10 Zimbabwe 05:20 Egypt More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Here are two episodes featuring Margaret Bensfield Sullivan, author of Following the Sun: Tales (and Fails) From a Year Around the World With Our Kids.  Margaret spent a year traveling to 29 countries on six continents with her husband and their two young kids. How did she do it? What did she learn? What advice does she have for traveling parents with young children? Watch the Video Timeline 00:00 World-proof your kids 05:55 Origin of the book title 09:20 Screwups 16:00 Career advice More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

It's hard to describe Kommu in an elevator. It's a clever mix of Airbnb, TrustedHousesitters, and Couchsurfing. I spoke with Bo Abrams, the founder and CEO of Kommu. Why should you pay $300 annually to access this new, exciting app that helps you find lodging and accommodation in a new way? Timeline 00:00 Pain point 03:00 Kommu vs. Airbnb 06:30 Practical example of Kommu 11:00 Logistics 15:00 Social capital 22:00 Profit 24:15 How does Kommu make money? 29:12 Recovering your rent 33:00 Verifying rent More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Wow. If you want the most comprehensive study of George Mallory's 3rd and final climb up Mt. Everest, read this book! The book Mallory, Irvine, and Everest: The Last Step But One by Dr. Robert Edwards examines the mystery surrounding George Mallory and Andrew Irvine's 1924 attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The book provides a fresh and original perspective on this historical event, as the author is a mathematician who has applied modern analysis techniques to the available evidence. Dr. Edwards has thoroughly researched the contemporary accounts, letters, and artifacts related to the climb and has identified inconsistencies in previous narratives. The book's release coincides with the 100th anniversary of Mallory and Irvine's fateful expedition and offers unique insights. Mountaineering experts Jochen Hemmleb and Thom Dharma Pollard have praised its potential to shed new light on whether Mallory and Irvine were the first to conquer Everest. This unique perspective is sure to enlighten the audience. Mallory picked a strong, young, inexperienced climbing partner, Andrew Irvine, to push to the summit. Video interview with the author, Robert Edwards SPOILER #1: Nobody knows if either one of them made it. And this book doesn't offer a definitive answer either. However, this book will enthrall you if you want to learn what the most meticulous researcher has discovered. For example, Edwards spends pages examining everything about the mysterious ice ax found high on the mountain. SPOILER #2: The ax is almost certainly Irvine's or Malory's, but we don't know which one. The author concludes that it was placed there and didn't tumble or drop there accidentally. What I love about this book is that Edwards lets the evidence speak.  Although he speculates, he admits when he's speculating to let the reader reach their conclusion. After reading this excellent book and interviewing the author, here's my best guess as to what happened: Mallory probably reached the summit late in the afternoon, forcing him to descend at night. When investigators found his corpse in 1999, Mallory's sunglasses were in his pocket, indicating he descended at night. He ran out of oxygen, which sapped his strength and heat just when he needed to stay warm at nightfall. He had few clothes compared to modern climbers. Without oxygen, he got disoriented and wobbly. His judgment worsened. One slip was all it took to break his leg and slide down to his resting spot, where he was found decades later.   This hypothesis is my speculation, not the book's.  Get the book, and judge for yourself. WARNING: This book may bore people with only a passing interest in this topic.  VERDICT: 5 out of 5 stars!   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Glen Van Peski sat in the co-pilot seat of a tiny plane that crashed, killing the pilot next to him. What happened? How did Glen and all the other passengers survive with minor or moderate injuries? We talk a lot about death in this episode, including how Glen's mom and son died. We end on a positive note! Watch the Video About Glen Glen Van Peski is a civil engineer who used his skills to engineer the lightest backpacking gear in the Solar System. Glen is the founder of Gossamer Gear. In 2024, he released Take Less, Do More: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude, and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker. In this interview series, Glen shares snippets of his book. The final episode is a flashback episode of Glen and Francis recording themselves chatting while hiking up San Francisco's historic Sweeney Ridge. Bonus video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QivSPWiKfU  Join the exclusive WanderLearn Patreon club. More about Glen Van Peski Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear, is known for his legendary contributions to the backpacking community. A native Californian, Van Peski grew up in the western outdoors, and when his oldest son joined Scouts, he led the troop’s backpacking program. Through those experiences, he became intrigued by lightweight backpacking. He started sewing his gear and eventually started his own company, manufacturing ultralight backpacking equipment. Glen and his company have been featured in Backpacker, Outside, National Geographic Adventure magazines, and the New York Times. Van Peski is an internationally sought-after speaker known for his inspiring, humorous, and information-packed presentations. He has hiked most of the Pacific Crest Trail, wandered the backcountry in Japan and Europe, and bike-packed on the Great Divide. He lives in Bend, Oregon, with Francie, his wife of over forty years, and is the father of two grown sons. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

In the first 10 seconds of this episode, you'll hear Glen Van Peski's top five tips on lightening your backpacking load. He shares several other brilliant tips on improving your backpacking skills and gear in less than five minutes. Watch the Video Glen Van Peski is a civil engineer who used his skills to engineer the lightest backpacking gear in the Solar System. Glen is the founder of Gossamer Gear. In 2024, he released Take Less, Do More: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude, and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker. In this interview series, Glen shares snippets of his book. The final episode is a flashback episode of Glen and Francis recording themselves chatting while hiking up San Francisco's historic Sweeney Ridge. Bonus video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QivSPWiKfU  Join the exclusive WanderLearn Patreon club. More about Glen Van Peski Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear, is known for his legendary contributions to the backpacking community. A native Californian, Van Peski grew up in the western outdoors, and when his oldest son joined Scouts, he led the troop’s backpacking program. Through those experiences, he became intrigued by lightweight backpacking. He started sewing his gear and eventually started his own company, manufacturing ultralight backpacking equipment. Glen and his company have been featured in Backpacker, Outside, National Geographic Adventure magazines, and the New York Times. Van Peski is an internationally sought-after speaker known for his inspiring, humorous, and information-packed presentations. He has hiked most of the Pacific Crest Trail, wandered the backcountry in Japan and Europe, and bike-packed on the Great Divide. He lives in Bend, Oregon, with Francie, his wife of over forty years, and is the father of two grown sons. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

In this episode, Glen Van Peski shares the story of an American worker who visited India to see where his outsourced job went. The lesson was surprising. Do you think you're not in the top 1%? Think again. Watch Video on YouTube Glen Van Peski is a civil engineer who used his skills to engineer the lightest backpacking gear in the Solar System. Glen is the founder of Gossamer Gear. In 2024, he released Take Less, Do More: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude, and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker. In this interview series, Glen shares snippets of his book.  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Glen Van Peski reveals one of his favorite annual backpacking trips, how to stop a snorer, and lessons about generosity.  Watch the video on YouTube 00:00 Arizona's Buckskin Gulch 03:33 How to stop someone snoring 4:30 Lessons from a disabled son 6:45 Chopsticks as tent stakes - Chopstakes 9:30 Accepting generosity 14:30 Subtract Toward Happiness  16:40 The Generous Debit Card   Bonus video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QivSPWiKfU  Join the exclusive WanderLearn Patreon club. More about Glen Van Peski Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear, is known for his legendary contributions to the backpacking community. A native Californian, Van Peski grew up in the western outdoors, and when his oldest son joined Scouts, he led the troop’s backpacking program. Through those experiences, he became intrigued by lightweight backpacking. He started sewing his gear and eventually started his own company, manufacturing ultralight backpacking equipment. Glen and his company have been featured in Backpacker, Outside, National Geographic Adventure magazines, and the New York Times. Van Peski is an internationally sought-after speaker known for his inspiring, humorous, and information-packed presentations. He has hiked most of the Pacific Crest Trail, wandered the backcountry in Japan and Europe, and bike-packed on the Great Divide. He lives in Bend, Oregon, with Francie, his wife of over forty years, and is the father of two grown sons. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon  

It's April 19, 2024: Bitcoin's 4th Halving is happening today! The block reward, doled out every 10 minutes, will drop from 6.25 to 3.125 BTC. That translates into an inflation rate of only 0.85%, far less than gold or any other currency. From now until 2140, the inflation rate will slowly decrease to zero. This explains why Bitcoin has appreciated against inflating currencies over several years —and that it will continue since governments will always recklessly print money. Watch the YouTube Video to See the Charts It's easier to follow along. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGBgo6ImfpY In this episode, we celebrate the BTC Halving by reviewing Plan B's stock-to-flow (S2F) model, which I first critiqued at the previous halving in 2020. Back then, I predicted that the model would break in 2024 and beyond. Because the article and video were so viral, I've been reviewing the model's state annually.  This update is extra special because it's the 2024 Halving. Watch the 9-minute video below to see why I still believe what I said in 2020: that the stock-to-flow model will begin to crack this year. As I explained in the video, the divergence between the two most recent models and reality is already happening. Only the original and most conservative S2F model remains viable. But in 2025 and definitely by 2026, you'll see that model will become as useless as the last two S2F models.   See my 2023 update.   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Glen Van Peski is a civil engineer who used his skills to engineer the lightest backpacking gear in the Solar System. Glen is the founder of Gossamer Gear. Today, Glen releases his new book, Take Less, Do More: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude, and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker. Sign up for his Virtual Launch Party on April 16, 2024. In this interview series, Glen shares snippets of his book. The final episode is a flashback episode of Glen and Francis recording themselves chatting while hiking up San Francisco's historic Sweeney Ridge. In this April 16, 2024 episode, we begin by encouraging you to register for Glen's Virtual Launch Party. Next, we introduce Glen, using two different filters: the negative story vs. the positive story. Using different lenses, we can radically transform how we view macro- and micro-moments throughout our lives. More about Glen Van Peski Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear, is known for his legendary contributions to the backpacking community. A native Californian, Van Peski grew up in the western outdoors, and when his oldest son joined Scouts, he led the troop’s backpacking program. Through those experiences, he became intrigued by lightweight backpacking. He started sewing his gear and eventually started his own company, manufacturing ultralight backpacking equipment. Glen and his company have been featured in Backpacker, Outside, National Geographic Adventure magazines, and the New York Times. Van Peski is an internationally sought-after speaker known for his inspiring, humorous, and information-packed presentations. He has hiked most of the Pacific Crest Trail, wandered the backcountry in Japan and Europe, and bike-packed on the Great Divide. He lives in Bend, Oregon, with Francie, his wife of over forty years, and is the father of two grown sons.   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Michael Zervos shares the countries he worries he may be unable to visit.  He also says what he will do if he runs out of time. As of April 12, he's 20% done with his quest. He wrote to me, "I am going to be in Zambia the next two nights and then in Malawi with the night bus the next day after from Harare (in theory)." You can watch this 3-min interview on YouTube. Glen Van Peski has a new book! Sign up for Glen Van Peski's free book launch virtual party on Tuesday April 16, 2024 3:00 pm EDT. I'll release a special WanderLearn episode they day of his book launch party, so look for it next Tuesday! Also, watch my previous interview with Glen Van Peski. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Michael Zervos's attempt to set a speed record to travel to every country began with a stumble in Russia. Watch the interview on YouTube! Check out all my interviews with Michael. On 4/4/24, he wrote to me: "Maputo has a lot of bribing but I never felt in danger. It was just pathetic at a point. The cops not even bothering to make infractions up sometimes. They just walked away with our documents. There were some more serious issues in DRC but I’ll have to tell you about them at a later time." More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Michael Zervos is trying to visit every country faster than anyone else while recounting the happiest moments in people's lives. In this interview series, we talk about his Project Kosmos. Periodically throughout 2024 and 2025, I will interview Michael Zervos about his 1.5-year quest to travel to all the nations in the world faster than anyone else! #1 Who is Michael Zervos & what is Project Kosmos? Michael Zervos explains Project Kosmos and why he's trying to be the fastest person to travel to every country. Watch this interview on YouTube Follow him on social media to see if he pulls it off. Michael Zervos makes well-produced social media content. Visit Michael Zervos's Linktree for all his links. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.  

Xavier Garneau shares why he walked 10% of the journey. He also explains why he drank the local water and didn't take malaria pills. He also has advice for those who want to follow in his footsteps. Watch the 4th and final episode on YouTube! More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Garneau tells us that when he lost his temper, a DRC immigration official was put in a headlock! Watch the video of this episode! This is part 3 of a 4-part series. See photos and read his epic report on this insane trip. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Garneau explains the most innovative thing he did, which got him through countless hassles in the DRC. This is part 2 of a 4-part series. Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode, learn why Garneau did his trek and how he accidentally traversed through an area while a genocide was in progress. Read his epic report on this insane trip. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Many travelers brag that they are "adventurous" because they bag a famous peak, visit Vietnam, or eat escargot. Although I celebrate anyone who pushes their travel limits, let's calibrate our definition of adventurous.  My definition of an adventurous traveler is Francois Xavier Paradis-Garneau. He's a 23-year-old intrepid Canadian who got the BBC's attention when he became the first Western tourist to do the ring road around Afghanistan after the Taliban took over. In 2022, he upped the ante with an even more ambitious trip: a 3-month traverse of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), from Angola to Uganda. I've driven across half of the DRC (from Uganda to Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic). Therefore, I have an idea of what he had to go through.  Watch this episode on YouTube! This is part 1 of a 4-part series. In this episode, learn why Garneau did his trek and how he accidentally traversed through an area while a genocide was in progress. See photos and read his epic report on this insane trip. More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Brad Graff & Sam Sliman share advice on the Drakensberg Traverse in South Africa. We discuss some worthy backpacking trips for 2024 and beyond. 00:00 Drakensberg Traverse Advice 06:40 Candidates for the next trek The Most Extreme Backpacking, the Julian Alps in Slovenia   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Brad Graff & Sam Sliman return to the WanderLearn Show to report how their 5-day adventure on South Africa's Drakensberg Traverse went. The short answer: it was a wet, sloppy, cold mess! Watch the Video to get the long answer! More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Gary Arndt explains why the Lightning Network may not be the panacea to Bitcoin's throughput issue. Watch this interview on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Gary Arndt predicts that we'll get two candidates that nobody wants. Watch it on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.  

Gary Arndt reflects on how to solve the world's most challenging wars. Watch the interview on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Gary Arndt explains why it's unlikely that China will invade Taiwan. Watch this on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Gary Arndt reflects on the Russo-Ukrainian War so far. Watch the interview on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Gary Arndt shares his insights and dirty details about why he left travel blogging and how podcasting is different. Watch it on YouTube! Gary Arndt is the host of the fabulous Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast. Listen to my previous episodes with Gary Arndt: How to Become an A-List Travel Blogger Living Among the Riots in Minneapolis Random Facts About Everything That Take You Everywhere Riots in Minneapolis  More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

In my Annual Prediction Show, I review last year's predictions before making my new predictions. Watch my 2024 Predictions on YouTube Let's go: 1. Trump loses the nomination Yes, this prediction is almost as crazy as saying in 2015 that Donald Trump would be the next US President. Few believed that back then, and everyone assumes he will be the nominee in 2024. However, almost every election has at least one surprise, and I'm betting this will be the big surprise. I have low confidence in this prediction. 2. Republicans nominate Nikki Haley, not Trump Who will represent the Republicans if Trump doesn't? Nikki Haley because Ron DeSantis lost his momentum. She is light years behind Trump, but if anyone can beat Trump, Haley can. 3. The Republican defeats Joe Biden This prediction implies that Joe Biden will win the nomination, not Gavin Newsom (who would be a better candidate) or any other Democrat. If Trump runs against Biden, Biden might win. But any other Republican will defeat Biden. 4. Australian flooding will kill at least 50  This is a conservative prediction. Deaths could easily be in the hundreds. 5. Bitcoin doubles in value during a year of a halving It will go above $80,000 during 2024 but won't close above $80,000. 6. Ethereum closes at $3333 Because everyone expects a bullish crypto year, I'm nervous that the crowd will (once again) be wrong. Still, it's hard to believe Ethereum will lose value this year, even with assaults from Solana and Bitcoin. Therefore, I'm making a moderately bullish prediction. I won't be surprised if Ethereum reaches $5000 at some point. 7. S&P climbs 7% After a profitable 2023, the US stock market will likely cool off. Although a recession is priced in, not much other bad news is. Expect a modest year. 8. ANC will lose the majority of seats for the first time in 30 years After spending 3 months in South Africa in 2023, it's clear that South Africans are fed up with the ANC more than ever. The main problem is that the opposition is fractured. A sloppy, chaotic coalition government will emerge with the ANC still the top dog despite its lack of majority. 9. Jimmy Carter dies He's been in a hospice for nearly a year. His wife died in November 2023. I hope I'm wrong, but let's appreciate his final months. 10. I finish the manuscript of The Unseen Africa I've been saying this often, but now I'm super determined. Plus, I finished the dreaded South Africa chapter, so it should be clean sailing for the next half of the book! Previous predictions To see my previous forecasts, check out my predictions for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Share and put your feedback or predictions in the comments below! Feedback Give anonymous verbal feedback to this show or the podcast by using the SpeakPipe link below. Maybe you have: A gripe An idea A question To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! Get a crypto hardware wallet from Ledger. For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Surprisingly, I rarely fly. I prefer overland travel, which contributes fewer greenhouse gases than planes. I've never sat next to a baby, but I pity those who have, including the parents. Send this Public Service Announcement (PSA) for the travel holidays to anyone who plans to fly with a baby.  Flying with a Tiny Tornado: A Survival Guide for Parents (and Other Passengers) Ah, toddlers. Tiny humans with the volume knob cranked to eleven and the attention span of a goldfish on Red Bull. So, you're brave enough to take one on a plane? Buckle up, buttercup, because it's gonna be a flight... interesting. But fear not, weary warrior! Here's your arsenal for surviving (and maybe even enjoying) an airborne adventure with your mini-me: 1. Book Direct Flights Booking direct flights is like finding the secret passage in a video game. One entry, minimal fuss. Aim for a non-stop odyssey. Fewer disturbances mean fewer chances for your tiny traveler to unleash their vocal powers mid-air. 2. Connecting Flights Should Have Longer Layover For those facing the unavoidable layover quest, fear not! Seek connections with longer layovers—2 to 3 hours, the sweet spot for parental peace. A break for the toddler to stretch, tire out, and possibly snooze on the second leg. Just avoid layovers longer than your toddler's attention span. The purpose of more extended layovers is that air pressure may alter the ears of the baby, making them fussy. As adults, we manage to handle this change in air pressure, but babies can not. Therefore, they start screaming. If you have a longer layover, it will allow the baby to settle down. Secondly, it will give them time to stretch their body and get themselves tired.  3. Utilize Pre-Boarding Facility Get in before the stampede of luggage and confused tourists. Let your offspring claim the throne of their airplane kingdom before the peasants arrive. Just promise you won't use the microphone to announce their nap schedule. 4. Pack Baby Bag Separately Think Mary Poppins's carpetbag filled with enough snacks, wipes, and distractions to rival a Disney theme park. Diapers? Pack more than you think, then triple it. Trust us, a poopnado at 30,000 feet is not a good look. It should include: Diapers Rash cream Extra set of clothes Snacks Milk bottles Toys You should always keep extra diapers in your hand carry, even if your flight is as short as one hour. You never know when a baby might soil the diaper, which can get extremely uncomfortable. Keeping some snacks in your bag can keep your baby busy for some time. 5. Dress Them Comfortably Dress your tyke for the runway of comfort. No puffer jackets or haute couture discomfort, please. Loose-fitted clothes are the fashion-forward choice. Remember, a comfortable toddler is a happy toddler, and a happy toddler is a quieter one. 6. Book A Separate Seat For The Baby Secure a kingdom for your little royalty—a separate seat for the tiny traveler. A car seat fortress ensures safety and grants you respite from the lap-monarchy. Buckle up, little one, for the journey of a lifetime! 7. Check-In Baby Gear At Gate Leave strollers, car seats, and inflatable T-Rexes for the ground crew. Trust us; you'll have enough to juggle without becoming a circus act with a carry-on the size of a small car. 8. Bring Something For Entertainment Distraction is Your Weapon! Tablets loaded with cartoons? Check. Finger puppets that tell Shakespearean sonnets? Why not? Anything to keep those tiny eyes glued to something other than the screaming lady in seat 12B. Conclusion And there you have it, intrepid parent – a guide to turn your toddler's travel saga into a comedy of errors, laughter, and a few well-earned victories. May your flights be smooth, your snacks abundant, and your toddler's giggles the soundtrack to your epic adventure! Safe travels! More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Many believe Africa is teeming with wildlife. Others believe seeing gorillas and other wildlife must be cheap because Africans have a low income. Both of these ideas are myths. In eight minutes, I answer a Patron's question about seeing mountain gorillas in Rwanda. I mention Uganda. Watch the Video on YouTube The cost estimates mentioned in the video are the cheapest possible mountain gorilla treks. You have to hunt to find a deal for $800. But they exist. What also exists is the $8000 deal. African safari prices vary tremendously. Furthermore, you could consider seeing the lowland gorillas in the Republic of Congo. The price is about a quarter of what the mountain gorillas cost, but they are far away. So bring binoculars. Lastly, I answer the question about the abundance of African wildlife. The reality is much more depressing than you imagine. African wildlife is rare & usually hunted.   More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Travel Tribe X Podcast Host Jordan Chmiel has tried hammocks & tents. He explains why he loves hammocks! We also dive into the SCUBA world. We end with current world hot spots. 00:00 Hammocks vs. Tents 05:15 Next Adventure 07:45 SCUBA Diving 14:30 Ukraine & North Korea More info To leave an anonymous voicemail that I could use on the podcast, go to SpeakPipe.com/FTapon You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! Get a crypto hardware wallet from Ledger. For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.