Guest Bio

Alexander Souri is the founder and executive director of Relief Riders International, an organization he launched in 2004 to combine adventure travel with meaningful humanitarian work. Through Relief Riders, Alexander designs and leads horseback-based missions that deliver medical care, educational programs, and community support to remote villages where access to services is limited. The organization brings together travelers, volunteers, and local partners to create journeys that provide both cultural immersion and tangible aid to underserved communities.

Before founding Relief Riders International, Alexander worked as a producer in theater, film, and large-scale special events. His career included involvement in major productions such as The Matrix, X-Men, End of Days, and Back to the Future: The Ride, along with directing commercial and industrial film projects internationally, including work in Beijing. His background in storytelling, logistics, and production now informs the way he organizes complex humanitarian expeditions in remote environments.

Born in New York City to a French mother and an Indian father, Alexander grew up with a deeply international perspective. He attended boarding school in the foothills of the Himalayas in India and later studied at an international high school in Sophia Antipolis in southern France before graduating from Simon’s Rock of Bard College in Massachusetts. These cross-cultural experiences helped shape his worldview and inspired the mission behind Relief Riders International—creating opportunities for travelers to experience adventure while contributing to positive change in communities around the world.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Alexander Souri, the founder of Relief Riders International. Alexander shares the story of how his career shifted from film and theater production into humanitarian work after a personal turning point led him to seek a more meaningful path. What began as a search for purpose eventually grew into an organization that delivers aid to remote communities through horseback-based relief missions.

Alexander reflects on his internationally shaped upbringing, including formative years spent in Afghanistan, India, and France. These experiences helped shape his cultural identity and gave him a broader understanding of the world at an early age. The conversation explores how these influences, along with the challenges of navigating family expectations and career transitions, ultimately guided him toward creating a mission-driven organization.

Jason and Alexander also discuss the unique model behind Relief Riders International, where adventure travel meets humanitarian service. By traveling on horseback into isolated areas of India, Turkey & Ecuador, teams are able to bring medical camps, educational support, and other critical programs to villages that often lack access to basic services. Along the way, Alexander reflects on lessons about burnout, resilience, family relationships, and how travel and exploration often become powerful catalysts for personal growth and self-discovery.

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

Guest Bio

Lucinda Rome is the Founder and Managing Director of Ganders Travel, a bespoke travel company specializing in journeys throughout East and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean. Her deep connection to Africa began nearly twenty years ago when she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro for charity and followed it with a safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara. What started as a single adventure quickly became a defining turning point in her life and career.

Soon after that first trip, Lucinda moved to Zambia to work in remote bush camps. What was meant to be a five-month experience turned into four formative years working with two of the country’s leading safari operators. After an unexpected injury brought her back home, she redirected her expertise into designing tailor-made African journeys. Drawing on extensive firsthand knowledge and continued travel throughout the continent, she now creates highly personalized itineraries that reflect both the diversity of Africa and the individual goals of each traveler.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Lucinda about her journey from early guiding roles to becoming a specialist in African travel and the founder of Ganders Travel. She shares how climbing Kilimanjaro and experiencing safari life firsthand shaped her understanding of what makes travel transformative rather than transactional.

Lucinda offers an honest look at the realities of climbing Kilimanjaro, explaining why success on the mountain depends as much on mindset as it does on fitness. She discusses the critical role of acclimatization, the importance of experienced guides, and the team dynamic that develops during high-altitude treks. Drawing from her years managing safari camps in Zambia, she also reflects on the immersive sensory elements of African travel—from the sounds of wildlife after dark to the distinctive scents of the bush.

The conversation also explores the art of bespoke itinerary design. Lucinda explains why understanding a client’s motivations, expectations, and travel style is essential to creating meaningful experiences. Whether focused on wildlife photography, culinary discovery, or cultural connection, she emphasizes that thoughtful planning is what turns a trip into a lasting memory.

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

Guest Bio

Linda McCall is the co-founder of Nomad Stays, a global accommodation platform designed specifically for digital nomads seeking community-driven, longer-stay experiences. Raised in the remote outback of Australia’s Northern Territory, Linda grew up dreaming of faraway places—though she never imagined her journey would include serving as an international first-class flight attendant, working with the Saudi Royal Family, or building a global travel brand. With a professional background that includes Qantas and the Australian Air Force, Linda brings discipline, adaptability, and a deep understanding of global travel to her entrepreneurial work. A lifelong adventurer at heart, she has solo motorcycled across the United States and even taken to the skies in hot air balloons—always saying yes to the next bold experience.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Linda McCall, co-founder of Nomad Stays, about building a hospitality platform designed to serve the rapidly growing digital nomad community.

Linda shares how her global travel career and military background shaped her entrepreneurial mindset, ultimately leading her to co-create a booking platform that solves real-world challenges remote workers face. From inconsistent accommodations to a lack of community connection, Nomad Stays was built to bridge the gap between traditional travel booking sites and the unique needs of location-independent professionals.

The conversation also explores how the company adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of networking and relationship-building in business, and why embracing change is essential for long-term success. Linda’s story is one of resilience, bold decision-making, and the power of saying “yes” to new opportunities.

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

Guest Bio

Keren Mikva is the Director of Alpengirl, an outdoor adventure program dedicated to empowering young women through immersive experiences in nature. Originally from Chicago, Keren discovered her love for the outdoors during summers spent at sleepaway camp in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. After earning a B.A. in Political Science from Stanford University, she realized her path lay far beyond the world of politics. She booked a one-way ticket to New Zealand, setting off on a journey that ultimately led her into a career in outdoor guiding.

Over the past decade, Keren has built a diverse resume leading whitewater rafting expeditions, hiking and biking tours, and multi-adventure trips around the globe. She has guided on the Snake River in Wyoming and the Rio Grande in New Mexico, led cycling adventures through Croatia and New Zealand, and coordinated trips across Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Now based in Bozeman, Montana, she continues to explore the Mountain West while shaping meaningful outdoor experiences for the next generation.

With a Master’s Degree in Sustainability in the Outdoor Industry from the University of Colorado Boulder, Keren brings both passion and purpose to her leadership at Alpengirl. She is deeply committed to mentorship, environmental stewardship, and creating supportive spaces where girls can build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Keren about her journey from suburban Chicago to directing one of the country’s most inspiring outdoor programs for girls. She shares how early camp experiences shaped her love of adventure and how years of guiding around the world prepared her to lead and mentor young women in the outdoors.

The conversation dives into what makes Alpengirl unique — from skill-building backcountry trips to thoughtfully designed mother-daughter adventures that strengthen family bonds. Keren explains how the program focuses on empowerment rather than competition, creating a supportive environment where girls can challenge themselves, learn practical outdoor skills, and discover their own strength.

Jason and Keren also discuss the realities of guiding, the importance of communication with families, and why outdoor education plays such a critical role in personal growth. At its core, Alpengirl is about building confidence, community, and connection — all through the transformative power of adventure.

Key Takeaways

• ✓ Alpengirl creates outdoor experiences designed specifically to build confidence in young women.
• ✓ Early exposure to adventure can shape lifelong passions and career paths.
• ✓ Mother-daughter trips provide meaningful opportunities for connection outside everyday routines.
• ✓ Skilled, compassionate guides are essential to fostering a positive camp culture.
• ✓ Learning practical outdoor skills helps girls develop independence and resilience.
• ✓ Group adventure travel comes with challenges that ultimately strengthen teamwork and leadership.
• ✓ Clear communication with parents supports camper success and trust.
• ✓ Outdoor programs can be empowering without being wilderness therapy.
• ✓ A supportive, fun environment makes the outdoors more accessible to all experience levels.
• ✓ Adventure travel can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth at any age.

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

Guest Bio

Dana Skogstad is the Sales Director, Canada at Travelzoo, a global members club for travel enthusiasts. With extensive experience leading sales teams in the travel industry, Dana specializes in strategic growth, partnership development, and helping travel brands connect with highly engaged audiences.

Raised in Southeast British Columbia and now based in Vancouver, Dana developed an early appreciation for the outdoors that continues to shape both his personal and professional life. From camping and hiking to road trips and sightseeing, he believes adventure is accessible to everyone—and he’s driven to help others turn their travel dreams into meaningful, real-world experiences.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Dana about his journey through the travel industry—from early days in guiding to his current leadership role with Travelzoo. Dana reflects on how growing up surrounded by natural beauty in British Columbia influenced his love of exploration and ultimately steered him toward a career built around travel and adventure.

They explore what sets Travelzoo apart as a global travel club with millions of members seeking high-quality, curated experiences. Dana shares insights into the evolving definition of adventure travel, emphasizing that adventure looks different for every traveler. He also discusses the responsibility that comes with guiding and travel planning, and why storytelling remains one of the most powerful tools in creating unforgettable journeys.

The conversation highlights the importance of trust, community, and vetted travel offers in a crowded marketplace—helping travelers book with confidence while staying inspired to explore more of the world.

Key Takeaways

• ✓ Dana views his work in travel as both exciting and deeply rewarding.
• ✓ Travelzoo connects millions of global members with curated travel opportunities.
• ✓ Quality control and vetting are essential in building traveler trust.
• ✓ Growing up in Southeast British Columbia fostered Dana’s lifelong love of the outdoors.
• ✓ Adventure travel is defined by personal perspective, not just extreme activities.
• ✓ Strong storytelling enhances the emotional impact of travel experiences.
• ✓ Transitioning from guiding to a corporate leadership role offers new ways to shape the travel industry.
• ✓ Passion and professionalism must go hand-in-hand in tourism.
• ✓ Building community is central to creating meaningful travel experiences.
• ✓ Curated travel platforms help turn inspiration into real-world bookings.

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

Guest Bio

Genevieve White is a travel and tourism copywriter and coach, and the founder of Campion Copy, based in the Shetland Islands, where dramatic landscapes and close-knit community life shape both her work and worldview. With a background in education and writing — and a lifelong fascination with travel — Genevieve helps travel businesses express the true value of the experiences they create through thoughtful, story-led copy.

Working with boutique tour operators, destination management companies, short-term rental hosts, and destination-focused travel brands around the world, Genevieve supports business owners in moving beyond generic sales language and into meaningful storytelling. Her approach centres on clarity, connection, and confidence — ensuring each brand’s voice reflects the care and intention behind the experiences they offer.

A teacher at heart, Genevieve is just as passionate about coaching as she is about writing. Alongside done-for-you copywriting, she offers copy coaching, brand voice development, and workshops that empower clients to communicate more effectively long after the project ends. Her work has supported travel businesses across Europe and beyond, helping them build trust, connect with the right guests, and ultimately increase bookings.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Genevieve about her journey from teaching into travel and tourism copywriting, and how storytelling became the foundation of her business. Genevieve shares how her background in education shapes her coaching style and why helping clients gain clarity in their messaging is just as important as writing polished marketing copy.

The conversation explores the role of personal stories in travel marketing, particularly in email communication, where authenticity and connection can make the difference between being overlooked and genuinely engaging potential guests. Genevieve explains why effective copy isn’t about pushing for bookings, but about building trust and inviting the right travellers in.

Jason and Genevieve also discuss life in the Shetland Islands, how the pandemic reshaped perspectives on work and lifestyle, and why creativity often comes from paying attention to everyday experiences. Throughout the episode, Genevieve offers thoughtful insight into writing with intention, staying human in a digital world, and building travel businesses rooted in meaningful connection.

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

Guest Bio

Lisa Pagotto is the founder and CEO of Crooked Compass, a pioneering adventure travel company redefining how people engage with the world. With a deep commitment to cultural integrity and immersive experiences, Lisa has carved out a space for meaningful, off-the-beaten-path journeys that challenge traditional tourism models. Her leadership empowers travelers to connect authentically with remote and emerging destinations — far beyond the ordinary itinerary.

Lisa is also a captivating speaker known for her raw honesty and practical wisdom. Drawing from her entrepreneurial path, she encourages audiences to embrace uncertainty, trust their instincts, and lead with resilience rather than perfection. Her storytelling inspires people to transform setbacks into opportunities and to rethink what success truly looks like. Whether on stage or in the field, Lisa champions bold thinking and values-driven exploration as tools for personal and collective growth.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Lisa about her journey building Crooked Compass into a leader in experiential travel. They dive into how the company curates unconventional itineraries, often in lesser-known or emerging regions, offering travelers both challenge and connection in equal measure.

Lisa shares how safety remains a top priority in these remote adventures, and how traveler psychology — especially around risk and group dynamics — plays a crucial role in the experience. She also reflects on how her early travel memories shaped her vision for Crooked Compass, and what she’s learned along the way as a founder navigating the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights the power of trusting yourself, staying flexible, and pushing past the expected to create something truly original.

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

Guest Bio

Bryan Lewis is the founder and CEO of Tenon Tours, a boutique travel company specializing in custom-crafted vacations across Europe. With over two decades of experience in the travel industry, Bryan has turned a college-era passion for organizing trips into a thriving business dedicated to creating immersive, flexible, and deeply personal travel experiences. Under his leadership, Tenon Tours has grown to offer journeys in 18 European countries, acquired the adventure-focused Lemonrock Motorcycle Tours, and earned repeated recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies. Based in the Greater Boston area, Bryan is a motorcycle enthusiast, father of five, and a firm believer that purposeful travel can transform lives—and legacies.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Bryan about how Tenon Tours has redefined the way people explore Europe—one custom itinerary at a time. Bryan reflects on his early days promoting spring break trips and how those experiences sparked a career dedicated to empowering travelers through choice, personalization, and authentic cultural connections.

The conversation dives into the rise of bespoke travel and how Tenon Tours balances structure and freedom to create meaningful journeys. From hybrid group/solo experiences to the emotional impact of travel, Bryan shares how understanding the unique motivations of each traveler is at the heart of Tenon’s approach—and why adventure, at any stage of life, starts with a willingness to explore.

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