Anietra Hamper

Owner

ThreeWordPress

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/anietra-hamper/

Guest Bio
Anietra Hamper is an award-winning journalist, outdoor adventure writer, and founder of ThreeWordPress. After nearly two decades as a top-rated television news anchor and Emmy-nominated investigative reporter, she transitioned into the world of travel journalism, where she now specializes in destination storytelling and fishing features. Anietra’s work has appeared in publications like Newsweek, USA Today, Women’s Outdoor News, Game & Fish Magazine, and TakeMeFishing.org, among many others. She is the author of Secret Columbus and 100 Things To Do In Columbus Before You Die, both published by Reedy Press, and contributes to bilingual and international travel books.

As a Columbus, Ohio native, Anietra balances her adventurous global travels with corporate storytelling at home. Through her company, ThreeWordPress, she crafts compelling content for Fortune 500 companies, blending her skills in broadcast, voiceover, and journalism. She’s also a vetted member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA), a SAG/AFTRA performer with TV and film credits, and a co-host of the Delaware County Fishing Trail video series. Whether she's pulling 9Gs in a fighter jet or reeling in exotic fish in Guyana, Anietra brings a unique blend of grit, curiosity, and creativity to everything she does.

Show Summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Anietra about her fascinating journey from television news to the world of outdoor travel journalism. She reflects on how growing up fishing with her grandfather laid the foundation for a lifelong love of nature — one that would eventually take her around the globe in search of extraordinary fishing stories and cultural encounters. Anietra discusses her commitment to authenticity in a digital world where AI-generated content is on the rise, emphasizing the value of storytelling rooted in real experiences.

The conversation also explores the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated spaces like sport fishing. Anietra shares honest insights into how gender dynamics show up on the water and the opportunities to shift the culture toward inclusion and respect. Her thoughtful perspective blends journalism, advocacy, and a deep appreciation for conservation, offering a compelling look at why fishing is about far more than just the catch.

Key Takeaways
✓ Anietra successfully transitioned from investigative journalism to outdoor and travel writing.
✓ Authentic storytelling remains essential in the age of AI-generated content.
✓ Her love of nature and fishing was shaped by early experiences with her grandfather.
✓ Storytelling is a powerful medium for building connection and credibility.
✓ She has carved out space for herself in a male-dominated fishing industry.
✓ Women in fishing often face pressure to prove themselves, but bring unique strengths to the sport.
✓ Anietra emphasizes empathy and listening as key to inclusive guiding and learning.
✓ Fishing should be accessible and enjoyable, regardless of gear or experience.
✓ The approach of a guide can shape the entire fishing experience, especially for beginners.
✓ Conservation and education are vital pillars of the fishing community's future.

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Christopher Byrd

Founder & Managing Director

Adventure Cycling Thailand

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/christopher-byrd/

A formerly enlisted U.S. Marine that originally came from Maryland, Chris lived in Washington, DC for the last 12 years that he was living in the United States. Chris moved to Bangkok in April of 2002 and resided there until August of 2008 when he moved down to Hua Hin to include day tours and multi-day tours as part of his bicycle touring business. He plans to continue living in Thailand and work on growing the popularity of his Tour de Thailand Charity Rides and his Hua Hin Bike Tours / Royal Coast Bicycle Adventure Tours. Chris has over 25 years experience in the hotel and restaurant business as well as many years working in sales and customer service. His time in the Marine Corps gave him the strength to be a leader and to motivate his staff and fellow riders while understanding the physical limits of individuals. Chris is a caring person that loves to have a good time and help others.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins interviews Christopher Byrd, founder of Adventure Cycling Thailand. They discuss Christopher's journey from his early life in Maryland to his passion for cycling and how it led him to establish a bicycle touring business in Thailand. The conversation explores the philosophy behind cycling tours, the impact of hospitality experience on running a business, and the life changes that brought Christopher to Thailand, including the aftermath of 9/11. In this conversation, Christopher Byrd shares his transformative journey from bartending in Washington, D.C. to establishing a life in Thailand. He discusses the challenges he faced during his initial move, the inspiration behind his charity bike rides, and the evolution of his bike tour business. Byrd reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, including the physical and mental challenges of long-distance cycling, the importance of community support, and the impact of COVID-19 on his business. In this conversation, Christopher Byrd shares the journey of establishing Adventure Cycling Thailand, detailing the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic and the subsequent rebranding of the company. He discusses the importance of safety and security in Thailand, highlighting the welcoming nature of the culture. Additionally, Byrd reveals future plans for community engagement, including charity rides and a Pride event, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity and support for local charities.

takeaways

• Adventure Cycling Thailand focuses on single-day & multi-day bicycle tours.
• Christopher prefers a leisurely cycling style over competitive racing.
• His early experiences with cycling were influenced by his father.
• He transitioned from the Marine Corps to the hospitality industry.
• Customer service skills from hospitality are essential in tourism.
• Christopher's life took a turn after losing his job in tech.
• He sought a fresh start in Thailand after personal losses.
• The kindness of Thai people made him feel welcome during his visit.
• 9/11 had a profound impact on his perspective while abroad.
• Christopher's journey reflects resilience and adaptability. Christopher transitioned from bartending to living in Thailand.
• He was inspired to start a charity bike ride after moving to Thailand.
• The first charity ride was filled with unexpected challenges.
• Byrd learned valuable lessons about cycling and sponsorships.
• He successfully built a bike tour bu

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Tony Thorne

Managing Director

Wilderness Explorers

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/tony-thorne/

Tony Thorne first visited Guyana in 1988 as a Project Leader with Operation Raleigh and loved the adventure and rawness of the country. He returned in 1991 to watch the West Indians and Australians battle out a test match at Bourda Cricket Ground and decided to stay and accept a position to manage Timberhead Rainforest Resort. In 1994, when he started Wilderness Explorers, tourism was still mostly undeveloped, and the company took on the challenge of marketing Guyana internationally.

Tony was the first President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana in 1991 and served for numerous years on the board in various positions including Vice President. Over the years he has travelled extensively throughout Guyana and also the neighbouring countries to find suitable properties, locations and communities to work within developing tourism to the region. After all these years he still marvels at the majesty of Kaieteur Falls and its pristine environment. Tony enjoys great satisfaction in working with local communities developing their tourism products.

summary
In this episode, Tony Thorne, managing director of Wilderness Explorers, shares his adventurous journey from joining the army to establishing a successful tourism business in Guyana. He discusses the evolution of tourism in Guyana, the importance of indigenous communities in sustainable tourism, and the economic transformation of the country due to newfound oil resources. Tony emphasizes the significance of preserving the rainforest and the role of tourism in supporting local communities.

takeaways

• Tony's journey began with a desire for adventure, leading him to join the army.
• Wilderness Explorers focuses on creating seamless travel experiences in Guyana.
• The tourism industry in Guyana is evolving, with a focus on sustainability.
• Indigenous communities play a crucial role in the tourism model in Guyana.
• Tony helped establish the Tourism Association of Guyana to promote the industry.
• Guyana's unique cultural makeup surprises many visitors.
• The country is now experiencing economic growth due to oil discoveries.
• Sustainable tourism helps preserve the rainforest and supports local communities.
• Tourism in Guyana offers opportunities for adventure and wildlife experiences.
• Tony's story illustrates the importance of adaptability and persistence in business.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.