Episodes

  • BUCKET LIST: In the Heart of Denali: Dream Sleeps on Alaska’s Ruth Glacier

    BUCKET LIST: In the Heart of Denali: Dream Sleeps on Alaska’s Ruth Glacier
    Jan 25 2025
    In this Bucket List episode, Aaron Millar takes us to one of the most remote and breathtaking locations on Earth: Sheldon Chalet in Alaska. Perched on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the Ruth Glacier, 70-miles from civilization, with views of the east face of Denali out of your bedroom window, this is perhaps the most spectacular hotel in the world. From helicopter rides over frozen wilderness to exploring untouched ice caves deep within the glacier itself, this episode will take deep into the heart Alaska and show you one the wildest parts of the planet. Highlights from the Episode: Flying to the East Face of Denali Aaron recounts an exhilarating helicopter journey deep into the heart of the Alaskan range to the edge of the tallest mountain in North America. Sheldon Chalet: the Most Spectacular Hotel in the World Discover the fascinating story behind Sheldon Chalet, founded by Don Sheldon, the pioneering bush pilot who envisioned this extraordinary place. Exploring the Ruth Glacier Ski across the Ruth Glacier, and then descend into an ice cave of pale blue luminous crystals. The Northern Lights Feel what it’s like to see the Northern Lights for the first time, from one the best, and most spectacular locations to see them on Earth. Follow Us: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. It helps us grow the show and share these incredible stories with more adventurers like you. Sheldon Chalet Check out some of the amazing photos of Sheldon Chalet Instagram: @SheldonChalet Credits: Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins
  • IMMERSION: The Elements of AlUla: Arabia’s Lost City and the Power of Water

    IMMERSION: The Elements of AlUla: Arabia’s Lost City and the Power of Water
    Jan 22 2025
    Before the modern city of Alula rose to prominence, its natural springs and water systems were at the heart of its existence. For centuries, Alula's oasis has been a critical stop on the Incense Road, connecting cultures and trading routes across the Arabian Peninsula. Water, both from the sky and the earth, has sustained life here, and its management has shaped both the landscape and the people. In this episode, we step back in time and explore the ancient wells, oases, and water systems that have supported Alula for millennia. We’ll see how the inhabitants of this region once relied on camels and complex water systems to survive in the desert, and witness a reenactment that celebrates the founding of the ancient city of Tayma. Along the way, we’ll discover how Alula’s connection to water continues to influence its art, culture, and life today. Recorded on location in immersive surround sound, this episode transports you directly to the heart of Alula, where history, nature, and culture come together in perfect harmony. Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode: Abdur Razzak, our Rawi (guide) through the old town of Alula Local artisans from Madrasat Addeera Local performers and dancers in the Ancient Kingdoms Festival of Tayma Our local guide Laura Alho PLAN YOUR ALULA TRIP: Our On Location episodes are designed so that you can experience everything you hear. Check out the links above, or find out more at ExperienceAlula.com FOLLOW ARMCHAIR EXPLORER: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Website: armchair-explorer.com Follow us on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode. Review us, and you’ll be blessed with good travel karma.  CREDITS This series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Aaron Millar wrote and hosted the series. Jason Paton did the field recording and produced the show, along with Aaron Millar. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • PERFORMANCE: Strings, Stories, and the Blues: Rick Rushing Live from Chattanooga

    PERFORMANCE: Strings, Stories, and the Blues: Rick Rushing Live from Chattanooga
    Jan 17 2025
    Before the bustling streets of Chattanooga and the sounds of modern life, the blues were born from the struggles and stories of generations past. Deep in the heart of this city in Tennessee, the blues pulse through the air, enriching the soil, and infusing every corner of this musical mecca. In this episode, we take you to the roots of this powerful genre, bringing you a live session with Rick Rushing, one of Chattanooga's finest blues musicians. Recorded in the intimate setting of a hotel room at the Moxie Chattanooga, Rick shares his journey, his family’s musical legacy, and the timeless energy of the blues. But it’s more than just music. It’s a celebration of history, culture, and connection—where the blues go beyond the notes, touching on healing, struggle, and the power of shared experiences. Recorded on location with immersive sound, this episode brings you close to the music and the spirit of the place, as Rick reflects on his personal story, the history of blues in Chattanooga, and the universal soul of this American art form. A special thanks to Rick Rushing for joining us on this episode. PLAN YOUR TENNESSEE MUSIC JOURNEY Discover more about the musical heritage of Chattanooga and the state of Tennessee at Tennessee Music Pathways. Plan your own trip to experience these stories and sounds in person. FOLLOW THE TENNESSEE MUSIC PATHWAYS Instagram: https://instagram.com/tnvacation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tnvacation YouTube: https://youtube.com/tnvacation Newsletter: tnmusicpathways.com CREDITS This series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Aaron Millar wrote and hosted the series, with Jason Patton engineering and producing. Check out our other shows at armchair-explorer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 mins
  • ADVENTURE: Iceland: Surfing the Northern Lights & Riding the Forgotten Coast with Chris Burkard

    ADVENTURE: Iceland: Surfing the Northern Lights & Riding the Forgotten Coast with Chris Burkard
    Jan 14 2025
    In this episode, we journey into the wild, rugged landscapes of Iceland through the eyes of renowned photographer and filmmaker, Chris Burkard. From an unplanned surfing adventure under the Northern Lights to his grueling exploration of Iceland's remote "Forgotten Coast," Chris takes us on a path of discovery and inspiration. We explore the vast beauty of Iceland—from icy fjords and glacial rivers to volcanic black sand beaches—and reflect on the transformative power of nature. Get ready for a deep dive into the heart of exploration, where nature's raw forces meet the human spirit of adventure. Highlights from the Episode: Surfing Under the Northern Lights Chris recounts a wild surfing trip to the West Fjords, where an unexpected storm nearly derailed the adventure—but the payoff was worth it when they found themselves surfing under the Northern Lights. The Forgotten Coast Adventure After years of flying over Iceland’s "Forgotten Coast," Chris sets off to explore it on the ground—battling harsh weather, dangerous river crossings, and raw wilderness. Risk, Reward & Connection to Nature A reflective moment as Chris explains the importance of immersing oneself in nature to fully advocate for its preservation and to experience it deeply. Watch Chris' Latest Film: The Forgotten Coast The Forgotten Coast captures the raw beauty of Iceland’s most isolated coastline. A journey full of unexpected moments and incredible landscapes. Watch it now at ChrisBurkard.com and check out Chris’ Instagram @chrisburkard for his stunning photography and more. Follow Us: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • PATHWAYS: Northern Lights, Irish Saints and Alaskan Dreams

    PATHWAYS: Northern Lights, Irish Saints and Alaskan Dreams
    Jan 9 2025
    At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what’s coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they’re most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. October episodes: ADVENTURE: Adventure filmmaker Chris Burkard takes us surfing in the Northern Lights, and bike-rafting along Iceland’s 300-mile Forgotten Coast. PERFORMANCE: We head to Chattanooga, Tennessee - one of the original homes of The Blues -for a hotel room jam, and interview, with local Blues legend Rick Rushing. IMMERSION: Hear the alternative story of the Oregon Trail, told On Location in Eastern Oregon by an elder of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla. We Will Never Fade is the title, and spirit, of this rarely told history of the West. BUCKET LIST: Host Aaron Millar tells us about the most spectacular place he’s ever stayed. Sheldon Chalet is perched on a nunatak in the middle of the Ruth Glacier, looking out to the eastern face of Denali, and the Alaskan Range. JOURNEY: Travel writer Alex Robinson takes us on a canoe journey through the lakes and rivers of Ontario, Canada, and discovers a deep connection to nature and the thrill of white-water canoeing. IMMERSION: Discover the story of the female St Patrick, in an immersive On Location journey across Ireland. St Brigid’s story was buried for over a millennia, but now it’s discovered, it’s set to take on Patrick, and his worldwide famous day. *** If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Reviewing the show helps other people discover it and helps us continue to produce it. If you like episode, please consider a quick review on your favorite podcast platform. You don’t have to write anything just click those five (hopefully) stars! Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 mins
  • IMMERSION: Wellness in the Desert: Sacred Waters, Sound Baths, and Starry Skies

    IMMERSION: Wellness in the Desert: Sacred Waters, Sound Baths, and Starry Skies
    Jan 2 2025
    Before movie star colonies, country clubs and pool parties, the first people to lay claim to Palm Springs were the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians. The spring waters were sacred to the local tribes, and today people from around the world visit the area to take in its healing waters. But there’s wellness in more than just the water. The desert surrounding Greater Palm Springs is believed to hold a special energy. It’s something you can feel when you come here. The wide-open expanses lifting away stress and worry, like a warm desert wind. So, take a deep breath, because in this episode, we’re going to relax, refresh and recharge. We take the sacred waters at the Spa at Séc-he, join a local tribe member for Bird Song at the source of the spring, take part in a sound bath, and discover how the stars and night sky affect your body and mind. Recorded on location in immersive surround sound, this episode is designed to give you a glimpse of what it feels like to be there for real. Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode: - Daniel Spencer from the Spa at Séc-he - John Preckwinkle III from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians - Liz Cortez from Heart and Sol Yoga - Ron Treat, from the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory - Caitlin from Sky Watchers Star Tours PLAN YOUR GREATER PALM SPRINGS TRIP Our On Location episodes are designed so that you can experience everything you hear. Check out the links above, or find out more at VisitGreaterPalmSprings.com FOLLOW ARMCHAIR EXPLORER Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast You Tube: @armchairexplorer Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com Follow us on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode. Review us and you will be blessed with good travel karma. CREDITS This series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Brian Thacker wrote and hosted the series. Jason Paton did the field recording and produced the show, along with Aaron Millar. And Charles Tyrie helped with audio editing. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • BUCKET LIST: 100-mile Pub Crawl along the South Downs Way, England

    BUCKET LIST: 100-mile Pub Crawl along the South Downs Way, England
    Dec 30 2024
    In this Bucket List episode, host Aaron Millar recounts the most audacious, tipsiest, and ridiculous hike of his life: a 100-mile pub crawl across the entire length of the South Downs National Park, near his hometown of Brighton England. “Should you ever happen to find yourself walking with only one boot on in the middle of the night,” Aaron writes, “the one thing you don’t want to read when you open the guidebook is – ‘the path climbs gently through a field of stingy nettles and large piles of cow dung.’ Nonetheless, having undertaken the challenge of walking the entire 100-mile length of the South Downs Way, from Eastbourne to Winchester, this was precisely where I found myself on only my second day on the trail.” The South Downs Way has been walked by traders, drovers, and pilgrims for hundreds of years. Because of that a network of old Coaching Inns has sprung up along the trail where weary travelers could rest for the night, grab some dinner and pint of ale. Centuries later many are still standing, and it’s possible to walk the entire trail stopping at them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a few drinks in between. 100-miles – shoeless or not – is a long way, but it’s worth every inch of the effort because this part of the world is overflowing with gentle landscapes, ancient history, and warm welcoming people. Not to mention a good pint or two. DO THIS PUB CRAWL YOURSELF! You can find out more information about the South Downs Way, and South Downs National Park at www.southdowns.gov.uk It’s possible to work out the route of the pub crawl yourself, or drop Aaron a line for the insider tips: info@armchair-explorer.com CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    15 mins
  • BUCKET LIST: The Everest of Great White Shark Cages Dives

    BUCKET LIST: The Everest of Great White Shark Cages Dives
    Dec 23 2024
    On today’s bucket list episode, we are following award-winning travel writer James Stewart as he attempts the ‘Everest of Cage Dives’. In the Neptune Islands of Australia, home to the most great white sharks on the planet, there is a cage dive that drops you all the way to the ocean floor. And it was set up by the man who survived the shark attack that inspired the movie, Jaws. This adventure should be on the bucket list of any ocean adventure fan. But it’s not for the feint hearted. Listen in and see if you would dare to take on the most intense great white shark experience on the planet. Highlights include: Hearing the story of one of the most horrific great white shark attacks of all time Learning about the story of Rodney Fox, how he became the inspiration for Jaws the movie, and went on to invent cage diving. Finding out what it feels like to descend to the bottom of the ocean floor as seven great white sharks circle you on all sides. Finding out about great white shark science and conservation Note: Many cage diving trips are unethical, Rodney Fox's are the gold standard in conservation. Listen to the episode to find out why, and what to look out for when booking your trip. Book this trip directly: rodneyfox.com.au. Follow James Stewart for more ocean adventures: @itsjamesstewart CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you’re reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    22 mins