The Overland Journal Podcast

On this episode of the Overland Journal Podcast, host Scott Brady welcomes James Fountain, a cultural geographer and fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Explorers Club, to discuss how exploration can support communities and science. Fountain shares how Overland Journal first inspired him, formative work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the United Nations remapping roads, and how cultural geography examines how landscapes shape cultures. They compare happiness and development through examples like Malawi and Bhutan, including Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness and conservation policies, and discuss reducing travel gear and impact. Fountain recounts an ambitious Wakhan Corridor motorcycle journey relying on local generosity, then offers practical guidance on respectful, sustainable travel and citizen science.

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with Zenith Irfan to discuss the importance of being the first female Pakistani motorcyclist to ride across Pakistan, and how her father’s dream led her to embark on the journey on a 70cc Honda. Zenith also dives into her top tips for visiting the country, including geography, what to wear, eat, and drink, and what to expect in various regions of Pakistan. 

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with Katie Harris of the Road Chose Me to discuss the overlap between human- and vehicle-powered adventure, and her experiences overlanding Australia, Iceland, and Tunisia with her partner, Dan, and daughter, Aurora. Katie dives into the details of hiking the Camino de Santiago with a young child, and the importance of community and the power of returning home to a place you truly love.

Portable fridges with hot-swappable batteries and integrated lithium power packs that simplify vehicle electrical setups. Rapid advances in battery chemistry and modular packs for running heaters, induction cooktops, and Starlink. How satellite internet, e-visas, and border tech are changing remote travel logistics and security. A push toward range-extended EVs and back-to-basics trips that favor simplicity and the right base vehicle.

Heather Lea, Canadian adventure motorcyclist, author and presenter who rode motorcycles around the world for two years. She recounts route highlights from Patagonia to Alaska and across Africa and Europe. She talks about the messy realities of long-term travel, bike problems and improvisation, navigating visas and new relationships, and the kindness and challenges encountered on the road.

Rachelle Croft joined Scott Brady on the Overland Journal podcast to discuss how women’s off-road rallies and international travel have helped shape her leadership and mindset. A veteran of the Rebelle Rally (including a 2019 win, 2020 second-place finish, and returning in 2025 as part of Toyota’s official 4Runner Trailhunter team), she detailed how the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles in Morocco was a personal turning point, teaching mental resilience and problem-solving under pressure. Croft emphasizes the importance of clear communication, managing stress in team environments, and prioritizing joy in travel. As CEO of the Overland Collective, she focuses on community, education, kindness, and stewardship. Upcoming projects for 2026 include the X Overland "Milestones" premiere and promoting her "Start Somewhere" initiative to encourage new travelers.

Adrian Abrahams, South African overlander and founder of Roam Overlanding and Roam Workshop, shares why Namibia’s vast deserts and starry skies hooked him. He discusses favorite Namibian regions, cultural differences across the country, and responsible wildlife experiences. Adrian also explains evolving from photography to video, launching a Cape Town prep shop, and common vehicle-prep mistakes to avoid.

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with adventure motorcyclist, author, and traveler Elspeth Beard, who was one of the first women to ride around the world by motorcycle. Elspeth dives into the details of her two-year round-the-world trip, from 1982 to 1984 on a 1974 BMW R60 bike, and how the experience changed her life, including the highs and lows of such an intense adventure. 

In this episode of the Overland Journal podcast, host Scott Brady chats with longtime friend and veteran overlander Kurt Williams. Kurt, a seasoned traveler known for his expertise with Land Cruisers and extensive global expeditions, discusses his adventures across six continents, including his latest trip through West Africa. Together, they delve into favorite travel memories, vehicle build simplicity, the importance of training, and their philosophy of occasionally stepping away from technical perfection to enjoy the journey. Kurt also shares his insights on the significance of adaptability and a positive mindset during long-haul trips, offering valuable advice for both new and experienced travelers alike. Tune in for an engaging conversation about overlanding travels, trials, and the learned wisdom that comes from decades on the road. Don't forget to check out the related content on expeditionportal.com!