Meet Tom Miller: From An Underground Journalist to Revered & Bestselling Travel Writer
Along The Way, He Encounters Spies, CIA, KGB, Soldiers of Fortune, and More!
Travel Writer Tom Miller (photo by Jay Rochlin).
In this episode of the Journeys With WorldRider Podcast, Allan Karl WorldRider interviews Tom Miller, the legendary, best-selling travel writer and author of “The Panama Hat Trail,” which National Geographic calls “among the best travel books ever written.” Enjoy this casual conversation where we discuss his latest book, a memoir titled “Where Am I?” where he reflects on a life of travel and writing. In addition, we talk about his bout with Parkinson’s disease, his travels, spies, borders, gun-toting priests, and so much more.
Tom Miller started his writing and journalist career from the “underground” in the late 1960’s writing for the anti-war press. Eventually, he moved above ground, writing for sea-level publications such as Smithsonian, Rolling Stone, Esquire, The Chicago Quarterly Review, The New Yorker, LIFE, and many others.
His books include “The Panama Hat Trail,” about South America; “On the Border,” an account of his travels along the U.S.-Mexico frontier; “Revenge of the Saguaro,” about the American Southwest; and about Cuba, “Trading with the Enemy.”
Tom has been a member of the Thornton Wilder Society and the Cervantes Society of America and served as a Fellow of the Gilder Lehrman Institute for American History.
The Ecuadorian capital City of Quito designated Miller “Un Huésped Illustre,” and he was honored by the Castilla-La Mancha Regional Consejería de Cultura, Turismo y Artesanía in Spain. In 2017 he was honored with a Festschrift. Since 1990 he has served as an Adjunct Research Associate of the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Arizona.
Mentioned In The Podcast
- Tom Miller's Website: www.tommillerbooks.com
- "Where Was I? A Travel Writer's Memoir" on Amazon https://amzn.to/3xuQETY
- The Panama Hat Trail on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3MAqSSH
After Traveling The World For More Than Ten Years By Motorcycle, the Adventurous Couple Behind Piki Piki Overland Are Grounded In Sucre
This is the audio-only podcast edition of the seventeenth episode of the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona where Allan Karl and Michnus and Elsebie Olivier chatted from Sucre, Bolivia to San Diego when this show originally Livestreamed on August 17, 2020.
The Journey of Michnus and Elsebie Olivier
These two GenX’ers are born and bred South African products.
Meet Michnus & Elsebie Olivier of Piki Piki Overland — This South African couple has been traveling the world on motorcycles for ten years. After crossing from Paraguay into Bolivia it wasn't long until they were locked down in the beautiful colonial city of Sucre, the capital of Bolivia.
FOLLOW & CONNECT WITH PIKI PIKI OVERLAND
- Website: http://www.pikipikioverland.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikipiki_overland_blog
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB1Yc7mezftusBXE8lcrZVw
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikiPikiOverland/
The Journey of Michnus and Elsebie Olivier — These two GenX’ers are born and bred South African products. They have a reputation never to follow or believe their own advice. However, they love to share stories, inspiration, and lessons from their ten-year-long motorcycle journey. They left South Africa 10 years ago on what was supposed to be a well-planned six-month trip to Europe through Africa. However, motorcycle travel seduced them, and they soon were addicted to life on the road. They had no choice but to continue. Throwing caution to the wind, they sold the family pets and their mom and hit the road. Since then, they’ve been motorcycling on a semi-permanent basis to this day. They are currently tightly locked down in Sucre, Bolivia, with their two DR650s wondering just when they can make a move.
No matter what, they say, “If the bones, wealth, and health last, we can continue motorbiking and explore more of this wonderful rock we live on.”
Our Conversation Touched On Some of These Topics & More:
- How A Six-Month Journey Lasted Ten Years? | And it continues. Selling everything for life on the road.
- The Corona COVID Climate In Bolivia | What have they been doing for five months in Bolivia.
- Places & Faces | Some of the most memorable experiences over the past ten years.
- The Importance of Stopping & Taking It All In | With time, long-term travel offers opportunities and possibilities if you let it.
- Answer Audience Questions | Our interactive webcast and chat room allows viewers to interact and ask our guests and host questions.
This is a replay of the 17th episode of the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona where Allan Karl and Steve Farber chatted from San Diego when this show originally Livestreamed on August 17, 2020.
The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection. Watch The Video Replay of the Livestream on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MioYUZLzqoM
#PikiPikiOverland #bolivia #motorcycle #worldrider #journeyswebcast
From Rock n' Roll Star to The Godfather Of The Iceland Music Scene
This is the audio-only podcast edition of the fourteenth episode of the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona where Allan Karl and Siggi Baldurrson chatted from San Diego to Iceland when this show originally Livestreamed on July 20, 2020.
The Journey of Sigtryggur Baldursson
Founding Member & Drummer for Bjork's first band, The Sugarcubes, and Managing Director of Iceland Music
Meet Sigtryggur Baldursson, the managing director for the Iceland Music office that helps Icelandic music find various opportunities and audiences around the world. A veteran musician where outside of Iceland he is best known for his work with Björk's first band, the Sugarcubes, from 1986 through 1992. He is co-owner of their music label, Bad Taste (Smekkleysa). He has also worked extensively with Emiliana Torrini and other Icelandic artists. He has an alter ego by the name of Bogomil Font who is the only Calypso singer in Iceland.
Links Mentioned in this Episode: Siggi on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0JwejEKQp0IwG3D79liZyT Sugarcubes on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1G0Xwj8mza6b03iYkVdzDP This is a replay of the 14th episode of the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona where Allan Karl and Sigtryggur Baldurssonchatted from Iceland to San Diego when this show originally Livestreamed on July 20, 2020.
Our Conversation Touched On Some of These Topics & More:
- The Journey From Iceland To World Fame | How Siggi helped put Iceland and its burgeoning music scene on the world map.
- Who Is Bogomil Font? | The Alter-ego Calypso singer in Iceland!
- Experimental Percussion Music | Utilizing telecommunication, satellite covers, and video to create outer world sounds.
- Kayaking & Codfishing | What's the secret to making wicked fishballs?
The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection.
Watch The Video Replay of the Livestream on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RN_FQf2--pg
#Iceland #bjork #music
From Shining Shoes In Boston Bars To Hollywood & Traveling The World For Drinks With Locals
Meet Jack Maxwell, Host of Booze Traveler on Travel Channel and a professional actor and adventurer, Jack learned his best lessons, stories, and lighthearted jokes in the barrooms of South Boston.
This is the audio-only podcast edition of the thirteenth episode of the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona where Allan Karl and Jack Maxwell chatted from San Diego to Phoenix when this show originally Livestreamed on July 13, 2020.
Jack Maxwell has made guest appearances on hit broadcast television shows including “24,” “Lost,” “Without a Trace” and “Beverly Hills 90210.” Maxwell became a lifetime member of the Actors Studio in 2003, won ‘Best Actor in a Lead Role’ at the 2012 Pan Pacific Film Festival, and was presented with both the Emerald Star award and Golden Halo award from the Southern California Motion Picture Council. Additionally, he has shared stage time with Al Pacino and Jessica Chastain in Oscar Wilde’s “Salome” as well as the movie, “Wilde Salome,” about the making of the play.
In the hit series “Booze Traveler,” Maxwell ventured the globe to not only get a taste of a country’s alcohol but to quench his curiosity about what people drink, why they drink it and the stories they tell when they do. At each stop, he connects with locals, immerses himself in regional activities, learns about the country’s unique relationship with liquor, and sometimes even participates in the alcohol-making process.
This Lively Discussion With Jack Maxwell Touched On Many Of These Topics. Listen Now!
- The Journey From Boston to Hollywood & Beyond | How passion and determination led to opportunities and possibilities
- From Dramatic Roles in Film & TV To Unscripted Global Travel Show | We discuss Jack's journey through his acting career.
- How Cocktails & Drinks Are A Common Connector of People | From the tastiest to the wackiest, Jack tasted and traveled the world through the lens of a glass of good booze.
- How Travel, Bars, & The World Will Change In A Post Pandemic Future | What does the world and travel look like going forward after Corona.
- Battling & Winning Against Cancer | How Jack continued the rigors of filming a hit TV show while fighting a deadly enemy.
- Taking The High Road With Cannabis & CBD | How medicinal marijuana and CBD products help patients battling cancer and other ailments with pain and quality of life.
#boozetraveler #cannabis #travelchannel
The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection.
What does travel look like in a post-pandemic world?
Meet Rudy Maxa, the original “Savvy Traveler,” and Emmy Award-Winning travel host and producer.
This is the audio-only podcast edition of the eleventh JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona, originally Livestreamed on June 22, 2020, from Minneapolis, Minnesota with our special guest Legendary & Emmy Award-winning travel host and producer Rudy Maxa.
Has tourism spun out of control with selfie-obsessed Instagramers and pop-culture-driven destination travel?
Legendary & Emmy Award-winning travel host and producer Rudy Maxa wrestles and ruminates about possibilities and the future of travel. Rudy Maxa is the original “Savvy Traveler,” an Emmy Award-Winning Television Travel Host & Producer, author, journalist, and global travel expert
We Cover So Many Topics In This Webcast. Listen Now!
A growing number of European countries opening but for many US flyers are persona non grata | France is sponsoring a bill that foreign travelers would me mandatory quarantine • Greece opened two weeks ago to 29 countries
Perhaps the question isn’t when we will be able to travel to Europe, but when should we?
Loyalty Programs | United announced it’s using it to back $5 billion loan —burn rate from $40 to $30 million a day
Airline Mask Policies | Members of Airlines for America (A4A) have announced that they will strengthen their mandatory mask policies to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19 and help keep passengers and crew safe. process.
Over tourism | Will the pandemic work as a correction in the over-touristed locales of the globe?
The abandoned bus on the Stampede Trail in Alaska | made famous by the book and film "Into the Wild" — has made its first journey in decades. This time by air.
The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection.
Kidnapped By The Wine Gods In The Land Where Winemaking Began Meet Andro Barnovi, One of the most recognized political figures in Georgia.
This is the audio-only podcast edition of the tenth JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona, originally Livestreamed on June 15, 2020, from Gori, Georgia with our special guest the former Chief of Staff to President Saakashvili, to Defense Minister of Georgia to Governor of the Khartli Region and Tbilisi University Dean—and now Natural Winemaker and founder of Wine Artisans located outside Gori, Georgia.
Wine Artisans winemaker, Andro Barnovi, is a former Governor of the region where he now works with grapes. Andro created the National Defense Academy of the country and served as Head of Administration of the outgoing President Saakashvili. He was Dean and initiator of significant reforms in Tbilisi State University and was Georgia’s first representative in NATO defense educational structures.
Earlier in his career, Andro was a well-known civil activist and military officer. In 2016, he abruptly quit and left the worlds of politics and academia to spend all his time in the vineyard. Today, he no doubt attracts the attention of a broad public.
We Cover So Many Topics In This Webcast. Listen Now!
As Deputy Defense Minister of Georgia | What were the drivers and goals of creating the National Defence Academy of Georgia?
The Russian occupation of Georgia | How does this impact the daily lives of the Georgian people?
What makes Georgian wine different the most anywhere in the world? As senior advisor to former Georgian President Saakashvili | How is it to rule a country with ongoing Russian occupation?
How was the Presidential Library created? | How did it change after Andro's role as its Chair?
How did the wine gods kidnap Andro? | With such a rich history in winemaking, what does the future hold for Georgian wine on a global scale?
As an academic and student of philosophy | What does Andro see as the future of Georgia in the region and the continued illegal occupation of two areas by Russia? The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection.
He gave up his life and future in Germany to move to Romania and help revive and revitalize a Royal Estate & Winery. Oliver Bauer never turned back.
This podcast originated as the Episode Seven, Season One, E7 | S1 on the JOURNEYS Webcast—Adventure & Discovery In The Time of Corona—And Beyond originally Livestreamed on May 25, 2020, with our special guest Oliver Bauer of Prince Stirbey Estate and Bauer Winery from Dragasani, Romania. Oliver Bauer is the German winemaker who sought to protect and promote Romania's cultural heritage through its wine. Oliver is an award-winning winemaker, cultural ambassador, and philosopher.
One Man's Journey From Germany to Romania: A Story Of Finding Opportunity & Possibilities In The Most Challenging Situations
Listen to Journeys With WorldRider Podcast episode #42
- The Journey From Success In Germany To The Unknown In Romania | How a meeting over a cold beer in a German Biergarten changed the course of Oliver's life and quite possibly the wine culture of Romania.
- A Royal & Romantic Reunion—A Story of Princes, Princesses, and Barons | The journey to reclaim family history and the iconic estate in the family for more than six generations before the communists seized it after WWII.
- A Cultural Celebration with Cramposie & Other Native Grapes | Why it's important for history and national identity to respect and revere indigenous grape varietals and the wine made from them?
- Much More Than Wine & Food—Why Romania Is A Bucket List Destination | Be prepared to be surprised. "This is not what I expected," is the most often heard response to first-time visitors to Romania.
About The Journeys Webcast with Allan Karl WorldRider
Inspired by the need to connect, travel, and imagine, Allan Karl started the Journeys Webcast on a dare and whim. It’s grown into an internet fave gathering where guests from all over the world share stories, ideas, and tips. The Journeys Webcast is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection.
FOLLOW HOST ALLAN KARL WORLDRIDER AROUND THE WORLD • SUBSCRIBE TO WORLDRIDER.tv YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/wrytcs1 • INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/worldrider • BLOG: http://worldrider.com/blog • FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/worldrider.pro • GET MY COFFEE TABLE BOOK: https://amzn.to/2U5bPbd • GET MY DIGITAL eBOOKS: https://apple.co/3p2tkGq • WATCH JOURNEYS WEBCAST REPLAYS: http://journeyswebcast.com • REGISTER FOR NOTIFICATIONS OF UPCOMING JOURNEYS WEBCAST LIVESTREAMS: https://www.worldrider.com/join-the-journeys-webcast-livestream/ • LISTEN TO THE WORLDRIDER PODCAST ON Apple Music: https://apple.co/3umK1Q9 © 2021 ALLAN KARL & WORLDRIDER PRODUCTIONS
Stuck in Spain with two motorcycles and big around the world dreams, Travis and Chantil Gill chat with WorldRider Allan Karl about deciding to live a life on the road. Then two weeks into their journey their dreams are cut short. In this tell-all interview Travis, Chantil, and Allan share stories, laughs, and ideas. The Journeys With WorldRider Podcast—Episode #46 Travel Around The World—Adventures with WorldRider Allan Karl & Special Guests Join Allan and his globetrotting guests as he travels the world alone on his motorcycle. Best-selling author, television host, and global adventurer and photographer shares insight, meets fascinating people, and explores places all around the world. When not traveling Allan takes listeners around the world through the tales and experiences of other extraordinary world travelers, engaging in lively conversation while sharing extraordinary tales from exotic locales and travel tips and insight everyone can use.
#44 Tamela Rich | Musings, Connections & Highway kitsch From North Carolina to Oregon & Beyond
Meet Best-Selling Author of “Living Life Full Throttle” and "Hit The Road: A Woman's Guide to Solo Motorcycle Touring" Tamela Rich
I discovered this podcast with Tamela Rich from 2015 that I lost through the cracks in the floor of my computer. It’s such a treasure I had to bring it back to life. The conversation is just as relevant today as it was when I sat in Tamela’s office in Charlotte North Carolina.
We discuss her decision to embark on a cross country trip on a motorcycle. After a devastating business loss, she decided to clear her head and find new opportunities and roadside treasures.
Here we discuss her decision to ride bikes and then ride coast to coast as a solo woman rider. And that’s just the start. Road trip expert Tamela is inspiring and a wealth of knowledge of roadside kitsch as well as off the beaten track treasures all over the country. Tune into this one, and you’ll be amazed at what she’s discovered and learned through traveling by motorcycle.
Watch this TEDx talk with Tamela and motorcycle journalist and philanthropist Neale Bayley.
Pangolins | Death On The Mountain | Jailed In China 
Just another day in the life of the bestselling author, adventurer, anthropologist Jeff Salz. He's an ex-pat living in Ecuador is watching and wading out the Coronavirus while sitting on the equator. Tune in to this lively entertaining discussion about adventure, travel, and life experiences on the third episode of JOURNEYS WEBCAST.
Meet Jeff Salz, a gifted storyteller and an exciting, entertaining, and enlightening guest on this third episode of the Journeys Livestream Webcast hosted by Allan Karl and WorldRider Productions.
- The Changing Realities for Travelers & Adventurers | Where and when do we go after lockdowns, sequesters, and quarantines?
- The Revenge of the Pangolin | No teeth and only a sticky tongue, why are the termites and ants of Africa so afraid.
- Forget Motorcycles, Jeff Traveled South America Overland On A Horse | Wisdom from those you'd never expect.
- The Fatal Climbing Accident That Changed Jeff's Life | What do you do after your best friend disappears on one of the most notorious mountains in Patagonia.
This podcast originated as the third episode of the Journeys Webcast and Livestreamed from Ecuador on May 4, 2020. We've edited this audio Podcast to remove audio from video segments, slide shows, and other areas where visuals are tied to the conversation. If you want to see the entire Webcast as it was live-streamed complete with all video content, scroll to the bottom of this page. Or you can watch the segment directly on YouTube.
About Our Guest
Dr. Jeff Salz has lived the life of adventure that most have only dreamed of! Honored as a Hall of Fame speaker by the National Speaker Association.
Acclaimed ‘America’s leading adventurer/anthropologist’ by both the Discovery and History Channels. Earned his Ph.D. in Anthropology during half a century of studying the wisdom of individuals and cultures while mountaineering and exploring the wildest corners of the planet including Patagonia, the Amazon, Outer Mongolia, Eastern Siberia, Chinese Turkestan and the Himalayas of Tibet.
Joined the faculty of San Diego State University at the young age of 23, and later named "Outstanding Professor". A celebrated author bestselling author, Jeff’s book “The Way of Adventure” shares the secrets of man's resilience to adversity, and is widely recognized as THE definitive book on adventure. As a professional innovator and team builder, he designed and instructed team-building and creativity training for the Walt Disney team that produced “The Lion King” C-level executive teams at global organizations such as Google, Microsoft, Wal-Mart, eBay, and The Walt Disney Company turn to Jeff for inspiration and training. An internationally known television journalist, Jeff has been a frequent host for the Discovery Network and has appeared as the guest "adventure expert" on the CBS Early Morning Show. His expedition to Apocalypse Island was the History Channel’s most-watched event of the year.
JOURNEYS WEBCAST is a weekly live stream event where travelers, entrepreneurs, vintners, chefs, musicians, authors, speakers, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives come together for an hour of storytelling, inspiration, idea-sharing, and connection. Register for free register.journeyswebcast.com for these weekly Livestream events. Video replays of past Livestream webcasts can be viewed at www.journeyswebcasts.com
In this 36th episode of the WorldRider Podcast, I’m honored to bring to you my friend and South African adventurer and world explorer Mr. Ronnie Borrageiro 
I met Ronnie in Namibia while I traveled through Africa from south to north. Ronnie was in a fog of swirling doubt, anger, and fear.
This Podcast came from my Journeys Webcast Livestreamed with Ronnie from South Africa on April 20, 2020. I've repurposed the original video file as this WorldRider Podcast Episode #36.
This is an intimate, honest, and often funny look at how challenges are opportunities. And how perspective defines character and the ability to see such opportunities.
Ronnie traveled through over 100 countries on his motorcycle. Along the way, he met the love of his life, a cast of characters, including legendary actor Bruce Willis, and experienced coincidences that will make your head spin and wonder. We talk about those things that seem to tear us apart, yet. how they truly can bring us together.
Over 100 Countries. 1,000 Days. And 100,000 Miles.
Meet Ronnie Borrageiro — The Gypsy Biker.
- Life In Lock Down—How Slowing Down Give You Much More Than Time To Smell The Roses.
- Our Journeys—Coincidence? Serendipity? Or Mean To Be?
- Stuck In Bali—The Eat, Pray, Love Story That Will Bring Smiles & Tears.
- Sudan—The Fork & The Road—How Watermelon Candy Tamed A Young Warrior.
If you want to watch the original video from the Journeys Webcast Livestream event on April 20, 2020, the replay is online on the WorldRider.TV YouTube Channel.
Musings In Macedonia With Digital Nomad & Not Just A Tourist Mahsa Homayounfar Chatting With Motorcycle Travelers Mahsa & Gerald Lakeside in Ohrid
Sometimes the stars line up or there’s the perfect storm that brings people together. I’d been chatting with Mahsa via text and Skype for more than two months. Hoping we would connect somewhere on the Balkan Peninsula, we finally arrange to meet just a week before my return to the USA.
"Not Just A Tourist" Mahsa and her Yamaha XT660R
Gerald and his 1991 BMW.
Mahsa travels the world on her motorcycle while operating here business “Not Just A Tourist.” And as the community of world traveling motorcycles intersects and the crossroads and forks in the road, she also managed to connect with Gerald, another rider from Austria. Over breakfast, while looking out over the place Lake Ohrid and with the breeze of the mild autumn air, we chatted about motorcycles, travel, and connections. Tune into this short Podcast for a fun and revealing conversation—one that may inspire you!
In this podcast I interview Panos, the passionate owner of Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro in Athens, Greece.
Meet Panos the owner of Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro, a legendary destination in the heart of Athens. Allan & Panos taste Greek wine while discussing the misconceptions about travel, good, and of course, Greek wine. Recorded while Allan traveled through Southeastern and Eastern Europe during his 2018 tour in Athens Greece while his motorcycle was getting the final maintenance for his travels.
Panos is spirited and passionate and the conversation takes place in the busy wine bar that claims to offer the largest number of wines by the glass anywhere in the world. Learn about hidden destinations in Greece, unique wine varietals found nowhere else but Greece, and insight and thoughts on how to be more open when it comes to traveling, destinations, food and wine.
Check out the blog post I wrote about Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro and be sure to include it on your list of "must see" when you find yourself in Athens. You will love this interview. We talk about reasons to travel, the importance of being open to new experiences, and great food and wine.
Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro
Mitropoleos 66-68 | Plaka
Athens 105 63, Greece
+30 21 3029 6570
<p><a href="www.ryanpyle.com"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-7449" src="http://www.worldrider.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/BMWCommunity4-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p><a href="www.ryanpyle.com"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-7449" src="http://www.worldrider.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/BMWCommunity4-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p><em>NOTE: This is Part I of a two-part Podcast!</em></p><p>I'm excited about sharing my latest interview on the <a href="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/category/travelogue/podcasts/">WorldRider Podcast</a> with <a href="http://www.ryanpyle.com">Ryan Pyle</a>.</p><p>This guy is the real thing.</p><p>Ryan is an adventure traveler and motorcycle rider, television host and producer, author, professional keynote speaker, Guinness world record holder, mountain climber, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ryanpyle">award-winning photographer</a>, and I'd like to add—humanitarian and philosopher. Okay, those last two titles I've given him—deservedly as you will learn while listening to these two podcasts.</p><p>Truly, this interview was so engaging and the topics incredibly intriguing that I couldn't edit it down to one hour-long episode. So I've decided to share nearly the entire conversation in two parts—a first on the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldrider-around-world-on/id126384468?mt=2"> WorldRider Podcast</a>.</p><p>I've been following Ryan Pyle since my journey to China in the summer of 2015. In China, he earned a Guinness world record for the longest continuous motorcycle ride in a single county. The journey became the subject of two books and launched "Tough Rides" a successful television series that aired on the Travel Channel. He has been an inspiration to me and an invaluable sounding board for ideas on travel to China, India and elsewhere.</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ryanpyle">Ryan Pyle</a> is principal of <a href="http://www.ryanpyle.com">Ryan Pyle Productions</a>. He was born in Toronto and after a collegiate basketball career and graduating from the University of Toronto with a degree in International Politics, Ryan decided to try his hand at international diplomacy by relocating to China. It didn't take long until Ryan was a sought after photojournalist whose work appeared in Wall Street Journal, TIME, Newsweek, Fortune, Outside Magazine, and ultimately becoming a regular contributor to The New York Times.</p><p>In 2009, Ryan was named as one 30 emerging photographers in the world. He then produced documentary films, several television series, and started writing books about his experiences in China and his travels around the world. You can find his <a href="https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages"><em><strong>Tough Rides</strong></em></a> series on <a href="https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages">Vimeo</a> and <a href="https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages">iTunes</a>. And here is the <a href="https://vimeo.com/238220512">trailer</a> for Season One of Ryan's <em><strong><a href="https://vimeo.com/238220512">Extreme Treks</a>.</strong></em></p><p> </p><p>Here is more information on his books and television series:</p><p><img class="alignleft wp-image-7450" src="http://www.worldrider.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ET-China-Cover-Front-256x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="264" /><strong><a href="https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignleft wp-image-7448" src="http://www.worldrider.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/TR-China-Cover-Front-256x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="264" /></a></strong> </p><p><strong>TELEVISION SERIES</strong></p><p>2018 – Extreme Treks: Season #3 – In Production</p><p>2017 – Extreme Treks: Season #2 – Distributed by TCB Media</p><p>2016 – Tough Rides: Brazil – Travel Channel</p><p>2014 – Extreme Treks: Season #1 – Distributed by TCB Media</p><p>2014 – China’s Great Gateway: Shaanxi – Discovery Channel</p><p>2014 – Tough Rides: India – Travel Channel</p><p>2013 – Touch Rides: China – Travel Channel</p><p><strong>PUBLICATIONS</strong></p><p>2017 – Sacred Mountains – Photography Book</p><p>2016 – Tough Rides: Brazil – Written Book</p><p>2015 – Sacred Mountains of China – Written Book</p><p>2014 – Chinese Turkestan – Photography Book</p><p>2014 – The India Ride – Written Book</p><p>2013 – The Middle Kingdom Ride – Written Book</p><div>Series – Tough Rides on Vimeo: <a href="https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages">https://vimeo.com/ryanpyle/vod_pages</a></div><div>Books — <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ryan-Pyle/e/B00AVFUMZM">Ryan Pyle on Amazon</a></div><div class="gmail_extra"> </div><div> </div><div><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA</strong></div><div>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ryanpyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/ryanpyle</a></div><div>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanPyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://twitter.com/RyanPyle</a></div><div> <div class="gmail_extra">YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ryanjpyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/user/ryanjpyle</a></div> <div class="gmail_extra">Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ryanpyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.instagram.com/ryanpyle</a></div> <div> </div> <div> </div></div>
NOTE: This is Part I of a two-part Podcast!
I'm excited about sharing my latest interview on the WorldRider Podcast with Ryan Pyle.
This guy is the real thing.
Ryan is an adventure traveler and motorcycle rider, television host and producer, author, professional keynote speaker, Guinness world record holder, mountain climber, award-winning photographer, and I'd like to add—humanitarian and philosopher. Okay, those last two titles I've given him—deservedly as you will learn while listening to these two podcasts.
Truly, this interview was so engaging and the topics incredibly intriguing that I couldn't edit it down to one hour-long episode. So I've decided to share nearly the entire conversation in two parts—a first on the WorldRider Podcast.
I've been following Ryan Pyle since my journey to China in the summer of 2015. In China, he earned a Guinness world record for the longest continuous motorcycle ride in a single county. The journey became the subject of two books and launched "Tough Rides" a successful television series that aired on the Travel Channel. He has been an inspiration to me and an invaluable sounding board for ideas on travel to China, India and elsewhere.
Ryan Pyle is principal of Ryan Pyle Productions. He was born in Toronto and after a collegiate basketball career and graduating from the University of Toronto with a degree in International Politics, Ryan decided to try his hand at international diplomacy by relocating to China. It didn't take long until Ryan was a sought after photojournalist whose work appeared in Wall Street Journal, TIME, Newsweek, Fortune, Outside Magazine, and ultimately becoming a regular contributor to The New York Times.
In 2009, Ryan was named as one 30 emerging photographers in the world. He then produced documentary films, several television series, and started writing books about his experiences in China and his travels around the world. You can find his Tough Rides series on Vimeo and iTunes. And here is the trailer for Season One of Ryan's Extreme Treks.
Here is more information on his books and television series:
TELEVISION SERIES
2018 – Extreme Treks: Season #3 – In Production
2017 – Extreme Treks: Season #2 – Distributed by TCB Media
2016 – Tough Rides: Brazil – Travel Channel
2014 – Extreme Treks: Season #1 – Distributed by TCB Media
2014 – China’s Great Gateway: Shaanxi – Discovery Channel
2014 – Tough Rides: India – Travel Channel
2013 – Touch Rides: China – Travel Channel
PUBLICATIONS
2017 – Sacred Mountains – Photography Book
2016 – Tough Rides: Brazil – Written Book
2015 – Sacred Mountains of China – Written Book
2014 – Chinese Turkestan – Photography Book
2014 – The India Ride – Written Book
2013 – The Middle Kingdom Ride – Written Book
Wow! Listen to this Podcast with Duncan—a 26-year-old winemaker who is traveling the world making wine, doing good, and following his dream. Seriously.
After riding through Scandinavia and Eastern Europe I found myself between Greek Islands and exploring Greek history and Athens I happened to wander into a wine bar and found a kindred spirit—Duncan Marks, a 26-year old wine maker from my hometown of San Diego—he's just finished harvesting wine from a Greek Estate.
![](http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/IMG_4810.jpg"%3E%3Cimg%20class="alignleft%20size-medium%20wp-image-7019)
I learned Greece was just one of almost a dozen countries he'd traveled while supporting his wanderlust working vineyards and cellars of wineries all over the world. Fast-forward to four months later and we connect in my home in north San Diego. Listen to an inspiring interview of not only why it's important o pursue your passion, but to find out what's important in life and those things we all have in common when it comes to connecting and enjoying the company of family, friends and strangers.
You will learn how I met Duncan in a wine bar in Greece. What you won't learn is how we ended up sharing a great meal and tasting wines in the late evening glow of a Grecian night in the shadows of the Acropolis. A classic case of culture, cuisine, connection — and let's throw some history along!
Duncan just finished a stint helping a small Greek winery harvest and before heading to Germany for Octoberfest and then to Austria for another harvest, he found himself in the Greek capitol and sitting next to me at Vintages Wine Bar. This is only the beginning of the story. So be sure to listen and see where this goes…
This Podcast is longer than usual, but well worth the listen!
Mentioned In This Podcast
Duncan's favorite travel movie is <a href="http://amzn.to/2itolQ7">V for Vendetta</a>
Duncan's favorite book, which relates to the country he'd live if he couldn't live in the United States is <a href="http://amzn.to/2iBayUD">A Short History of Nearly Everything</a> by Bill Bryson; and he also recommends by the same author <a href="http://amzn.to/2iRfhVN">In a Sunburned Country</a>. Allan mention's Bill's book <a href="http://amzn.to/2iQsgTy">I'm A Stranger Here Myself</a>.
Here are links to the wineries he worked at:
<a href="http://Www.Babcockwinery.com">Babcock Winery</a> – Santa Barbara area
<a href="http://www.flyingfishcove.com.au">Flying Fish Cove</a> – Australia
<a href="http://www.latourmelas.com">Latour Melas</a> – Greece
<a href="http://www.loibnerhof.at">Loibnerhof</a> - Austria
<a href="http://www.schwane.de/">Schwane</a> - Germany
<h2><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6577" src="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/neale-speed-tripple.jpg" alt="neale-speed-tripple" width="1461" height="858" />Veteran Moto-journlist, Television Host, and Philanthropist</h2>
Any chance I get to spend time with the legendary Neale Bayly, I cherish and relish the experience. Now you can too. It's hard to say, but this ranks as one of my top guests, so far, on the WorldRider Podcast (who woulda thought). Truly, the guests keep getting better which means for you listeners, less time listening to me, and more time listening to experienced travelers from all over the globe.
Neale Bayly is one of the most accomplished and prolific active motorcycle and motorsport journalists on the scene. Yet, it's not so much about motorcycles with Neale. He gets it. It's about connection and the experience. I guess that's why he's invested so much energy (and resources) into his <a href="http://nealebaylyrides.com/backstory/wellspring/">WellSpring</a> nonprofit. We don't dig too much into it in the Podcast, but Neale is a role model for world traveling motorcyclists who give back. His efforts and passion were part of a hit series on the late "Speed Network" called <a href="http://nealebaylyrides.com">Neale Bayly Rides: Peru</a>. This is still yet to be released on iTunes and Netflix, but I'm told it's coming.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6578" src="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/allan-neale-speed-tripple.jpg" alt="allan-neale-speed-tripple" width="1555" height="1037" />
I met Neale in the summer of 2014 when I was on the road with the "FORKS" nationwide book tour. At the time I was familiar with his work, admired his television show, and was eager to meet him. He showed up at my event at Atherton Market in downtown Charlotte. Later in that tour, I returned to Charlotte and had the opportunity to stay with Neale and his son Patrick—even shopping and cooking together a recipe from my book "FORKS".
Beyond that classic experience of connecting and sharing, Neale and I got to take his stable of Triumph "Triples" for a Sunday ride—street and speed—a casual cruise through Charlotte.
Tune in to the Podcast, and please rate and leave comments on the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0ahUKEwiLo-yTstHNAhUhzIMKHdQABWcQFggeMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fworldrider-around-world-on%2Fid126384468%3Fmt%3D2&usg=AFQjCNH32AQFlRwvthprvKwFUELcIB841g&sig2=zL-nTL7aOa6GZdBluXXgJA">iTunes Podcast channel</a>—and please subscribe!
Be sure to follow Neale Bayly:
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/nealebaylyrides">Facebook</a>
<a href="http://www.instagram.com/nealebaylyrides">Instagram</a>
<a href="http://www.twitter.com/nealebaylyrides">Twitter</a>
Join host Allan Karl (me) and fellow adventurer, speaker and world traveler Dr. Jeff Salz in an engaging discussion of adventure and travel. Hall of Fame Speaker and anthropologist adventurer, Jeff shares incredible stories from the jungles of Peru to the endless pampas and glacier-studded landscapes of Patagonia. Listen as we dig into what it means to travel, preserve traditional cultures and experience aging as an adventure as we discuss his exciting new book project.
Jeff and his partner Lisa Jaffe are sought after speaking coaches and founders of Courageous Speaking, an interactive workshop for all ranges of speakers – from wannabes to beginners to the experienced presenter seeking looking to take their craft to the next level. Their two day intensive workshops, held in north San Diego include four hours of stage time, professional and peer feedback and story development.
<img class="alignleft wp-image-6145" src="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/george-walther-headshot-262x300.jpg" alt="george-walther-headshot" width="177" height="203" />The WorldRider Podcasts continues to evolve and attract new and interesting guests.
Just in from Cape Town, South Africa, meet fellow speaker, world traveler and good friend George Walther. Not only is George Walther a Hall of Fame Speaker (honored by the National Speaker Association), but George is a a Hall of Fame WorldRider Traveler — honored here on this blog! He's also a card-carrying member of the <a href="http://travelerscenturyclub.org/">Travelers' Century Club</a> — a unique nonprofit organization comprised of members who've traveled to 100 countries or more. Listen in to learn how many countries George has traveled. Even better, George is also a motorcyclists and has traveled through many countries on two wheels.
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0967902193/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0967902193&linkCode=as2&tag=thedigtav-20&linkId=7ZCNNWV2BD2KOE75" target="_blank"><img class="alignright wp-image-6144" src="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/honey-im-home-cover-art-209x300.jpg" alt="honey-im-home-cover-art" width="119" height="170" /></a>George co-authored, along with his wife Barbi, "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0967902193/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0967902193&linkCode=as2&tag=thedigtav-20&linkId=7ZCNNWV2BD2KOE75">Honey I'm Home</a>", a humorous romance love story and a travel story—a true story!
A gifted storyteller and with incredible life experiences to share, this Podcast will entertain listeners. I suspect there will be future podcasts with George as he continues to explore the world.
<strong>Happy New Year!</strong>
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6027" src="http://www.worldrider.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/carla-king-podcast-1030x703.jpg" alt="carla-king-podcast" width="1030" height="703" />
<h3>Carla King Visits WorldRider Studios And Shares Miss Adventurer Tales, Traveling China, Sidecars & Self Publishing</h3>
What a pleasure to host and try to entertain the queen of sidecars, the country's leading expert in self-publishing and an extraordinary adventure motorcyclist–Miss Adventuring, Ms. Carla King.
True to form, my own cat, Ms. Dar es Salaam, needed the attention of Carla, so before the podcast recording began, a few moments of “Dar Time” were spent in the California sunshine.
I've known Carla for nearly ten years. The <a href="http://carlaking.com">original moto-traveler blogger</a>, Carla is legendary for not only her writing, riding, and spirit, but also for her acumen and support to many in the area of self-publish.
Carla’s latest entrepreneurial expression is <a class="" href="http://authorfriendly/" target="_blank">Author Friendly</a>, which includes her <a class="" href="http://authorfriendly.com/education/">Self-Pub Boot Camp</a> educational program as well as book coaching and practical services for independent authors.
You can find out about her adventure travels on <a class="" href="http://carlaking.com/">CarlaKing.com</a>. And be sure to join her on <a class="" href="https://www.facebook.com/missadventuring" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to stay tuned for all the latest in <a class="" href="http://carlaking.com/blog/">adventure motorcycling</a>, <a class="" href="http://selfpubbootcamp.com/" target="_blank">self-publishing</a>, books, articles, Baja tours, writing retreats and more.
<hr />
On other business, stay tuned for more information on my winter Book Tour with the Travel & Adventure Show in San Diego, Chicago, Dallas, Washington, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Philadelphia. Will also be updating soon on the amazing and so exciting television project. More to come!
Doc Returns: Once Hostage in Shanghai—My BMW F650GS Comes Home
Listen to the podcast and watch the video near the bottom of this page. Allan Karl and Panayioti Yannitsos discuss their experience filming a pilot episode of a new television/streaming travel series that follows Allan "WorldRider" Karl as he rides his motorcycle "border-to-border" in China to Vietnam. The show, yet to be named, is a highly cinematic and unique take that will surely disrupt the television travel series genre. In this episode, listen to Allan and Pan discuss the show, challenges of riding and filming in China and the amazing reunion with the bike sent to China to star in the show. 
After nearly six months of being held hostage by Chinese customs, Allan "WorldRider" Karl's legendary motorcycle, "DOC", returns to Southern California where he and producer and director Panayioti Yannitsos and the team at Bluesea Shipping Lines in Long Beach, California retrieve the bike and spark a reunion with Allan ultimately getting Doc on the road again.
Doc Returns From China from Allan Karl on Vimeo.
About Allan Karl, WorldRider and the WorldRider Podcast.
ALLAN KARL is a best-selling author, award-winning photographer world traveler adventurer, and inspirational keynote speaker. With an insatiable passion for travel, culture, people, and food, he has explored more than 60 countries, primarily solo and many on a motorcycle, photographing, writing, and blogging about them along the way.
Allan inspires people to pursue dreams, overcome challenges, tackle obstacles, embrace change, and smile—especially in the face of adversity. And he knows how. Allan spent nearly three years riding around the world alone on a motorcycle. Along the way he was marched into the Colombian jungle at gunpoint, crushed his leg in the middle of nowhere in Bolivia, and had to beg the governments of Syria and Sudan to let him across their borders. (Eventually they gave in.) Follow Allan and other world-traveling adventurers on the WorldRider Podcast.
In his bestselling book, FORKS: A Quest for Culture, Cuisine, and Connection, Allan brings to life his three-year motorcycle adventure — in stories, photos and food from each of the 35 countries he traveled. In the summer of 2015, Allan with an award-winning Vancouver-based film crew, traveled China, from the north to south to the Vietnam border filmed a pilot for a new travel television show scheduled to air and stream in late 2016
Beyond his motorcycle adventures Allan has:
- Sailed the Flores Sea in search of the elusive Komodo Dragon
- Climbed the most active volcano in Indonesia; and
- Competed in the most grueling motorsport race in the world — The Dakar.
#22 WorldRider Podcast Redux 11.11.09
Originally Produced and Published on November 11, 2009
Solo world traveler motorcycle adventurer Allan Karl returns with a new edition of the WorldRider Podcasts. Though back in the states for nearly a year, Karl discusses his upcoming speaking engagements and multimedia presentations and plans for publishing.
11.11.09
#20 Buenos Aires | Dakar Motos – Traveler’s Telling Stories
Originally Produced and Published on March 15, 2007
The Ides of March (Caesar Beware)
Motorcycle travelers all over the world meet and swap stories at the legendary adventure traveler hangout Dakar Motos in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Through a series of amazing coincidences Allan connects for the third time during his journey with fellow Californian motorcyclists Adam Pate. Listen to Adam relate his tale to WorldRider, Allan Karl, of getting stuck on the Salar de Uyuni. Sitting at Dakar Motos Allan and Adam relish in the funny outcome that ultimately could’ve prevented days of heartache and painstaking work for Adam Pate and his 2002 KLR 650.
03.15.07
#19 Breaking Out of Bolivia | Welcome to Chile
Originally Produced and Published on December 4, 2006
Finally after enduring a broken leg, badly sprained ankle and ligament strained and twisted knee, WorldRider, Allan Karl, finally takes the road out of Bolivia. From the largest and highest in altitude salt lake in the world, Allan takes a dirt road out of Bolivia. In search of better roads, Allan is quite suprised to learn that in this part of Chile the roads are more challenging yet the vistas and the isolate desolation taxes his riding skills and mental acuity.
#18 12,000 Feet In The Middle of Nowhere
Originally Produced & Published on December 1, 2006
With lightning storms blazing the evening sky and the most impressive array of starts they’ve ever seen, WorldRider, Allan Karl and fellow motorcyclist Andy Tiegs, sit on the largest and highest in altitude salt flat in the world on the Bolivian Altiplano and discuss their respective journeys to this magical place by motorcycle. After traveling more than 15,000 miles and visiting twelve countries along the way, these two motorcyclists achieve part one of a lifelong dream.
12.01.06