In this episode we chat with Mark Wheeler, Chief Operating Officer of Business Development for &Beyond and Cliver Rioja, General Manager of the &Beyond Amazon Explorer about the launch of this luxury expeditionary yacht onto the waters of the Peruvian Amazon. From the exciting features and activities guests can look forward to, to the unique design elements of the craft and its interiors, from the wildlife the jungle has to offer, to the sustainability approach adopted in developing the &Beyond Amazon Explorer, there are many delights to uncover.

Andrea Perez Hoyos, the Creative Director of Adriana Hoyos, talks about being the team selected to work on the innovative design of the Galapagos Explorer, &Beyond’s first expeditions yacht. Find out how the unique beauty of the Galapagos served as inspiration and hear about the unusual elements that the team incorporated to create an authentic sense of place. Andrea describes the challenges of maintaining a sense of luxury and exclusivity while also keeping the design practical and functional.

Lebogang Matlakala, Future Leaders Program Manager for Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) is a paradox. A girl who grew up in the dry and dusty interior of South Africa who is an avid diver and oceanographer. An impressive academic and public speaker who advocates for simple and effective communication of complex issues to local communities. A mentor and inspiration for others who remains thoroughly grounded and humble. Listen to her tell her story of personal growth and community development as she literally and figuratively learns to swim with sharks, whether in the depths of the Indian Ocean or among the big fish of the scientific community.