Simplify for a Better Return on Life

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” proclaimed an Apple Computer marketing brochure back in 1977. In the ensuing decades, Steve Jobs’ commitment to this ideal resulted in technology products that were as beautiful as they were easy use, and in Apple becoming one of the most valuable companies in the world.

The clutter we accumulate in our lives often prevents us from fully experiencing the adventure and freedom that life offers. At some point, our possessions can become chains, anchoring us and stifling our spirit of adventure. Think about how paring down to the essentials in these four areas could improve your Return on Life (ROL) and fuel your adventurous spirit.

1. Simplify your space.

Imagine your home as a base camp for your next adventure. Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can weigh you down and inhibit your readiness for new experiences.  Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can also have serious effects on your mental and physical health, including stress, depression, lack of focus, and higher risks of household injuries. Cleaning can have the opposite effects, filling you with positive feelings as you open up more physical space for yourself. As you organize things you want to keep and let go of those you don’t, you might feel nostalgia and gratitude for people and experiences that have enriched your life. And giving away items you’ve outgrown will make you feel good about helping someone else as you also make room for the exciting things that will be coming next.  I consider myself pretty simple and not materialistic, but every time I go to do a clean out, I realize just how much I like my stuff.  It is one thing to decide to simplify, but it is much harder work to actually do it.  Just remember that simplifying is not just about reducing; it’s about making space for what truly ignites your passion.

2. Simplify your schedule.

 Your calendar should be a roadmap to adventure, not a to-do list that leaves no room for spontaneity.  Despite your many personal and professional responsibilities, you probably have more control over your days than you realize. With a little forethought, it’s usually possible to make time for exercise, reading, or a quiet cup of coffee, especially if you incorporate some of these activities into your morning or bedtime routine. But if you really can’t find time for a run or a dinner date with your spouse for the ‘big rocks’ in your life, you might need to take a hard look at your whole schedule and reassess your priorities. Are you staying up too late and sleeping in longer than you should? Are you taking more meetings at work than you really need to?  If your schedule is constantly packed and stuck in the fast lane, there will never be space to chase your own great adventure.  Simplifying your schedule can open up opportunities to chase new experiences and explore uncharted territories, both literally and metaphorically.  As you probably know by now, I think having this pursuit is a must.

3. Simplify your thinking.

The running dialogue in your head that’s constantly dredging up regrets about the past and spreading anxiety about the future is robbing you of the present. It can be like fog on your path, obscuring the beautiful vistas ahead.  Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to keep yourself focused on what you can and will accomplish today. Try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to root your mind and body in the here and now. Keeping a gratitude journal can also help you appreciate all of the good things in your life instead of dwelling on negative thoughts.

4. Simplify your finances.

 What, ultimately, is your money for?  Truly, the only value of money is in its use.  Think of your finances as a toolkit for your explorations.

 Yes, we all have to pay the bills and provide the essentials for our families. But the way we use our money should also be tied to specific, actionable life goals and upcoming transitions. When we don’t earn, spend, save, and invest on purpose, our money tends to scatter across possessions we don’t really need, subscriptions we don’t really use, debt that we could have avoided, and short-term solutions to problems that will continue to linger in the long run. Vacations get skipped, old cars get older and more unreliable. Then, suddenly, your family has outgrown your home but you can’t afford to move, or your kids are looking at colleges you can’t pay for, or you and your spouse are both wishing you had the means to retire.

 When you eliminate what’s not essential, you’ll have more resources to commit to the people, places, and activities that make you truly happy. You can allocate more resources to experiences that bring joy and excitement. Want to have an authentic conversation about these things that really matter?  Schedule an appointment with us and let’s talk about how our Life-Centered Planning process can simplify complex financial issues and keep you and your money organized so you can pursue your own great adventure now.

 

 

Episode 28: The Psychology of Adventure with Matt Walker


Welcome back to The On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today, my conversation is with Matt Walker. Matt is a unique blend of psychologist and adventurer, who has spent nearly 30 years leading expeditions on multiple continents. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind adventure, the importance of doing hard things, and why integrating adventure into our lives is vital. Matt shares his insights on how discomfort can be a powerful tool for growth and how adventure helps us build resilience and find clarity. We also touch on his upcoming webinar that I will be hosting, so stay tuned for that!

Timeline Summary

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Matt Walker, his unique background, and the upcoming webinar on integrating adventure into our lives.
  • [02:07] – Matt talks about his journey into adventure and psychology, and the connection between the two.
  • [05:00] – Discussing the real “why” behind adventure and how it ties into personal and professional growth.
  • [10:12] – Reflecting on the potential disruptions of changing sleep habits.
  • [14:24] – Matt explains the five elements of adventure: High Endeavor, Uncertain Outcome, Total Commitment, Tolerance for Adversity, and Great Companionship.
  • [19:00] – The role of great companionship in meaningful adventures and how solo endeavors still require support.
  • [25:00] – Overcoming fear in mountaineering and how it parallels with facing life’s challenges.
  • [32:00] – The importance of intentionality and purpose in manhood and how adventure helps achieve this.
  • [43:00] – Matt’s personal adventures, including building a house and planning solo ascents of 8,000-meter peaks.
  • [47:00] – Closing remarks and how to connect with Matt Walker for more insights and support.

Links & Resources

Closing Remarks

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed our conversation with Matt Walker, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don’t forget to check out the links and resources mentioned, and as always, pursue your own great adventure!

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Episode 26: Life is an Adventure, Plan for It with Terry Foxworth


Get ready for an exhilarating ride in this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I chat with Terry Foxworth. Terry’s journey is a testament to persistence, an unquenchable thirst for adventure, and a masterful balance between a professional career and an adventurous lifestyle. From the picturesque landscapes of South Carolina to the roaring rapids of whitewater kayaking, grueling ultramarathons, and the pristine slopes of skiing, Terry’s tales will ignite your adventurous spirit. We also dive into his epic cross-country bicycle journey with his daughter, filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable memories. Tune in and let Terry’s stories inspire your next adventure!

Timeline Summary:

  • [00:04:18] Terry returns to Asheville and recounts the challenge of navigating a massive snowstorm.
  • [00:05:20] Unpacking connections with Brew Davis, a mutual friend from university days, and how these relationships fuel adventure.
  • [00:09:00] Terry’s educational journey and the pivotal experiences that shaped his career and love for the outdoors.
  • [00:27:01] Growing up in South Carolina: How a small-town boy developed a passion for adventure.
  • [00:36:00] The life-changing backpacking trip in the Smokies that sparked Terry’s lifelong love for the great outdoors.
  • [00:42:00] Diving into Terry’s whitewater kayaking adventures and his transformative move to Greenville.
  • [00:56:00] Josh shares a thrilling tale of a backpacking trip with his son, filled with unexpected lessons.
  • [01:12:00] The epic story of Terry’s cross-country bike trip with his daughter: Planning, perseverance, and priceless memories.

Links & Resources:

Closing Remark:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the On
Adventure Podcast. Share it with friends and family who might find Terry’s
story as inspiring as we did. Join us next time for more incredible
journeys and motivational tales!

 

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Episode 25: From the Shadows to the Spotlight with Joe Gray


In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Joe Gray, an exceptional athlete who turned challenges into triumphs. Joe shares his journey from growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, and attending the Tennessee School for the Blind to becoming a world-class athlete. With the support of dedicated mentors and his unwavering determination, Joe excelled in wrestling and track and field, eventually competing at the Paralympics. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of dreams.

Timeline Summary:

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Joe Gray and his inspiring journey.
  • [00:01] – Joe’s early life in Nashville and attending the Tennessee School for the Blind.
  • [00:04] – Coping with visual impairment and developing an adventurous spirit.
  • [00:10] – Transition to high school sports and excelling in wrestling and track.
  • [00:16] – Competing in the Youth World Championships and facing international competition.
  • [00:25] – Setting a world record in the 4x100m relay and the realization of his potential.
  • [00:32] – Challenges of training and maintaining top performance while seeking sponsorships.
  • [00:39] – Transitioning from athlete to coach and starting Sight School with Lex Gillette.
  • [00:52] – Organizing ski trips for visually impaired students and the impact on their lives.

Links & Resources:

Closing Remark:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the On Adventure Podcast. Share it with friends and family who might find Joe’s story as inspiring as we did. Join us next time for more incredible journeys and motivational tales!

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Episode 23: Endurance Unleashed: From UltraMan to Personal Revelations with Van Fletcher


Welcome back to another episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I dive deep into the extraordinary tales of endurance and personal growth, probing why everyday explorers continue to push their own limits. In this episode, I reconnect with Van Fletcher, a dad, a real estate professional, and, oh yeah, a world class triathlete AND an ultraman competitor.

Van’s story isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s a profound journey of resilience, community, and self-discovery.  This episode is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive, no matter the challenge. Van Fletcher’s journey is sure to inspire not just athletes but anyone looking to overcome their personal barriers.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00] Welcome: I introduce Van Fletcher, my first repeat guest, discussing his recent adventures and astounding achievements in the Ultraman Florida—a race that pushes human limits with its extreme distances.
  • [10:12] Trials and Triumphs: Van shares his rigorous experiences and the emotional rollercoaster of participating in high-endurance races, including Ironman events and the mental strategies needed to overcome unexpected obstacles.
  • [22:00] Community and Support: The critical role of community in endurance sports. Van emphasizes how his crew’s support and camaraderie were pivotal in his successes and overcoming the daunting challenges of Ultraman.
  • [35:00] Physical and Mental Resilience: Insights into Van’s training regimen and how overcoming injuries and personal setbacks have shaped his approach to racing and life.
  • [45:00] Beyond the Finish Line: Van discusses the broader impact of his racing career on personal growth and his future aspirations in the world of endurance sports.

Links & Resources:

Closing Thoughts: If today’s journey through extreme endurance and personal triumphs inspired you, remember to rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more such inspiring stories. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and exploring your own great adventure!

 

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Episode 22: Beyond the Summit: Exploring the Depths with Kenton Cool


*Credit Elia Saikaly – Kenton on the Everest summit

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Kenton Cool, a legendary high-altitude climber with an incredible record of Everest ascents and a storied career in mountain exploration. Dive into a conversation that explores not only the physical heights of the world’s most formidable peaks but also the profound depths of personal ambition, resilience, and self-discovery.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:02:22] – Kenton recounts the challenges and thrills of achieving the Everest Triple Crown, offering a vivid glimpse into the life of a high-altitude climber.
  • [00:13:00] – Discover Kenton’s unique approach to leadership and team-building in extreme conditions, drawing from his extensive experience as a guide and speaker.
  • [00:22:13] – Delve into the ethos behind Kenton’s climbing philosophy—how passion, mindset, and the power of setting goals propel him forward.
  • [00:35:45] – A reflective moment as Kenton shares how his personal life, particularly fatherhood, reshapes his perspectives on adventure and the sacrifices it entails.
  • [00:47:28] – Hear about Kenton’s transformative experiences with local cultures and communities, enriching his journeys and broadening his world view.

Links & Resources:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing our show on your favorite podcast platform. Share with friends and fellow enthusiasts who might enjoy diving into the world of all-things adventure! Your support helps us bring more inspiring and enlightening content. Thank you for joining us, and keep seeking your adventures!

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Episode 21: No way out but through with Robbie Lenfestey


Episode Summary

In this captivating episode of the On Adventure podcast, host Josh Self interviews Robbie Lenfestey at his remarkable retreat, Mandala Springs, located in the scenic mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina. Robbie, a man of profound wisdom and thrilling life experiences, shares his extraordinary adventures that have taken him from being kidnapped in Argentina to climbing the towering peaks of Aconcagua and encountering the renowned breath expert, Wim Hof.

The conversation opens with Robbie recounting his unexpected yet transformative journey through Argentina, where a planned permaculture internship turned into a gripping survival scenario involving a 10-day cattle drive gone awry. Robbie’s vivid storytelling transports listeners to the rugged wilderness of Patagonia, where he faced extreme weather, navigated cultural challenges, and ultimately had to escape from a dangerous situation instigated by an eccentric and irresponsible billionaire. This adventure culminated in Robbie, driven by necessity and fueled by his indomitable spirit, becoming one of the youngest people to solo climb Aconcagua, facing not only physical extremes but also profound personal realizations about his limits and capabilities.

The episode peels back the layers of Robbie’s adventurous spirit, exploring how his early life challenges and unconventional childhood experiences primed him for a life filled with exploration and self-discovery. From tales of his harrowing experiences in the wild to his philosophical insights on overcoming personal traumas and societal expectations, Robbie offers an introspective look into how embracing the unknown has profoundly shaped his understanding of himself and his approach to life.

Listeners are treated to a journey that is as introspective as it is exhilarating, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in how extreme experiences can lead to profound wisdom and personal growth.

Episode Timeline

  • [00:01:00] – Robbie’s gripping journey from kidnappings in Argentina to climbing Aconcagua and meeting Wim Hof.
  • [00:15:00] – Delving into Robbie’s childhood, exploring the formative experiences that shaped his adventurous spirit.
  • [00:30:00] – Robbie reflects on his emotional and spiritual growth, triggered by his battles with illness and societal expectations.
  • [00:45:00] – Insights into Robbie’s perspective on personal growth through extreme challenges.
  • [01:05:00] – A detailed recount of Robbie’s near-death experiences and their transformative impacts on his life philosophy.
  • [01:25:00] – Robbie discusses the profound lessons learned from living closely with nature and the importance of ecological awareness.

Links & Resources

  • Mandala Springs: Discover more about the magical retreat discussed in this episode. Mandala Springs Website
  • Aconcagua Adventures: Learn more about the mountain that marked a pivotal moment in Robbie’s life. Aconcagua Official Site
  • Wim Hof Method: Explore the breathing techniques and philosophy taught by Wim Hof that Robbie encountered. Wim Hof Method Official Site

Closing Remarks

If you found today’s episode enlightening, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share On Adventure to help us bring more thrilling tales and profound insights to you. And if Robbie’s story inspired you, consider leaving a review to help others discover the podcast. Happy adventuring!

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Episode 20: Beyond limits while trailblazing the Wild with Adam Hill, Shaun Pope, Ryan James and Mark Looney


I didn’t know these fellas before our chat, but by the end it was clear we all come from the same tribe.  In the latest episode of the On Adventure Podcast, we dove into a wild group conversation that ventured beyond the beaten path. Joined by Adam Hill, Shaun Pope, Ryan James, and Mark Looney, the dialogue unfolded amidst the rustic charm of Black Mountain, North Carolina, a sanctuary for those who chase the thrill of outdoor adventures. 

This episode isn’t just about pushing limits; it’s a celebration of the spirit that drives us to explore the unknown, to embrace the rugged beauty of nature, and to confront the challenges that lie in the wild. It’s a narrative of friendship, endurance, and the unyielding quest for adventure that binds a community together.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:01:15] Adam Hill: From Memphis to the mountains, Adam’s journey from an urban landscape to the vastness of nature where he discovered his passion for outdoor adventures.
  • [00:08:14] Shaun Pope: The transformation from a sports enthusiast to an ultramarathon runner, Shaun shares his evolution and the familial influence that propelled him into the world of trail running.
  • [00:14:29] Mark Looney: Reflecting on his youth in New York, Mark recounts how blizzards and Boy Scouts sparked his adventurous spirit, leading to cross-country cycling and a lifetime of exploration.
  • [00:22:10] Ryan James: A story of growth from the flat terrains of Savannah to the challenges of ultra running, Ryan speaks on the allure of the mountains and the transformative power of pushing beyond one’s limits.

Links & Resources:

Closing Thoughts:

As we wind down this episode, I’m sure you will carry the stories of Adam, Shaun, Ryan, and Mark with you as I have since this was recorded. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or someone looking to step outside your comfort zone, remember, it’s not just about the distance covered or the mountains conquered; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the endless pursuit of what lies beyond the horizon.

If this episode has ignited a spark within you, or if you’ve found solace in the shared experiences of our guests, consider supporting us. Rate, follow, share, and review On Adventure Podcast. Let’s keep the spirit of adventure alive together.

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Episode 18: Into the Wild with Tim Matthews


In today’s episode, we embark on a deeply personal journey with Tim Matthews, a seasoned adventurer and outdoor enthusiast who just happens to be a retired Navy one-star Admiral. In this conversation, Tim shares his profound insights and experience, both personal and professional, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of outdoor pursuits in shaping his life. From heart-pounding rock climbing expeditions to soul-soothing solo backpacking trips, Tim reveals how each adventure has left an indelible mark on his spirit.  I find this incredibly inspiring.

As we navigate the conversation, you will hear how Tim has learned more about himself amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. From the exhilaration of summiting towering peaks to the quiet contemplation of remote wilderness trails, Tim shares his lessons learned and the deep connections forged with the natural world.

Ultimately, through detailing his outdoor experiences, Tim uncovers the threads that weave together resilience, growth, and the unyielding spirit of adventure. I am certain that you will be encouraged to embrace your own call to the wild, which is an awesome call. 

Enjoy my conversation with Tim Matthews.

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Growth at all stages with Eli Self



We are getting the second season of the On Adventure podcast off to a bang with my first conversation.  Adventure can come at all ages, and I know my next guest knows this very well.  Because he is my son, Eli.  Eli is in his second year at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  During the holiday break, we got to sit down for a couple hours and pretend that I am not dad but a professional interviewer.  And man, was it fun. 

Eli is wise beyond his years, but you’ll find out why…it doesn’t come for free.  Eli lives big, loves big, and adventures big.  You’ll hear exactly what this means to him as a 19 year old, where his love of the outdoors comes from, and what he hopes all of this means for his future self.  To say I’m proud of him is beyond an extreme understatement, and that has nothing to do with the things that he has accomplished in his 19 years (and the list is very long).  I am proud of him for who he is. 

Enjoy my conversation with Eli Self.


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