Inspire Campfire

This week on the podcast, we’re bringing you a powerful episode centered on compassionate leadership, belonging, social awareness, moral courage, and driving social change. These values are at the heart of the Charlotte Unity Project by the North Carolina Outward Bound School—a transformative initiative that begins with a free 7-day wilderness program for 48 high school students from 8 diverse schools across Charlotte, North Carolina. In this program, students develop technical skills, engage in deep, meaningful conversations, and cultivate leadership and problem-solving abilities. Upon returning to school, they’re encouraged to join their high school’s Unity Club to share their insights, inspire peers, and make impactful contributions to their communities. You might remember episode 44, where Charlotte Program Manager Alexys Woods shared her journey with Outward Bound and her leadership of the Unity Project. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome three incredible recent participants of the program. These inspiring high school student leaders will share their transformative experiences and the impact the Unity Project has had on their lives.

This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Jeff Johns, a lifelong adventurer, filmmaker, photographer, and writer who has spent nearly half his life traveling the globe and living abroad. Jeff's journey is an inspiring tale of embracing discomfort and finding joy through world travel. From assisting in recovery efforts in Thailand after the 2004 tsunami to creating hit television shows for Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and the BBC, his experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.Currently based in the Netherlands with his wife and daughters, Jeff is also the co-creator of What Doesn’t Suck, an adventure travel platform, and the author of Jet Lag Junkie, a memoir that captures the lessons, love, and meaning he’s discovered through his global explorations. Tune in as we dive into his incredible story, his passion for exploring the unknown, and the power of stepping outside your comfort zone.

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re excited to welcome Mary "Newfound" Leavines, a storyteller, writer, photographer, and the owner of a popular hostel for thru-hikers along the Appalachian Trail. Mary’s journey to the AT began with an inciting incident that set her on a path of self-discovery—one that led her to thru-hike the trail in 2022. During her time on the trail, she not only reconnected with her inner self but also rewrote her own story. Now, back home in Franklin, North Carolina, Mary has purchased a hostel to stay closely connected to the trail and provide a supportive space for fellow hikers. Join us as we dive into Mary’s transformative adventure and explore how the call to adventure often begins with a single, life-changing moment. Her journey is a testament to how embracing the unknown can help us discover what truly matters.

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Richard De Gouveia, a man who has dedicated his life to sharing his profound connection with animals, the environment, and the Earth. As the founder of Arc Earth, Richard leads transformative safari experiences that delve deep into Africa’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Following a life-changing event, Richard left behind financial security and a traditional career to pursue his passion for the African bush. Today, his team at Arc Earth offers photographic and private safaris, as well as purpose-driven conservation trips that inspire a deeper understanding of the natural world. Splitting his time between Portugal, where he lives with his wife and two sons, and the African wilderness, Richard spends over 200 days a year guiding unforgettable journeys. His story of courage, connection, and purpose will leave you inspired to explore your own calling. Join us as we hear how Richard is truly living his purpose and helping others connect with the magic of nature.