In this special episode, Kenton interviews Karl Egloff at Everest Base Camp as they both prepare for their Everest expeditions.

Karl is an extreme mountaineer, mountain guide, runner and speed climber with a host of impressive Fastest Known Times (FKTs) to his name. Later this month, he is aiming to become the fastest person to move from Basecamp to the Summit and back to Basecamp with no oxygen. Not something for the faint-hearted!

There is no doubt that Karl has the experience to do this - he talks Kenton through a potted history with great energy and enthusiasm, which includes him mentioning in passing that he summited Kilimanjaro six times in one week! Tune in now to be entertained and inspired...

Karl's book choice: Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer

Karl's music choice: "Soft" Latino music

If you like running, this week's episode is for you! Kenton sits down to talk to Hem Rana, a remarkable man who 'got the running bug' after going along to a park run six years ago and has since completed multiple ultras.

Hem talks to Kenton about his childhood in Nepal and his application to join the Gurkhas. He remains a serving Gurkha today and has lived in the UK for 27 years working for a variety of Gurkha regiments attached to the British Army.

Hem used to run only because he had to, for fitness tests and PT sessions, but in 2019 he tried his local park run (5km) and loved it. Out of curiosity, he gradually built up his distances, moved from road to trail, and developed his confidence. He tells Kenton that he has completed several 100 milers, the Winter Spine race (twice!), UTMB and the Bob Graham Round, to name a few.

Hem truly believes that everyone is capable of doing what he has done. If you're looking for a bit of inspiration today, look no further!

Mark Evans has been leading expeditions for over 40 years and he speaks to Kenton from Oman, where he has lived for 25 years. He has very recently completed a 30 day expedition through the Empty Quarter, travelling by foot and by camel, following in the footsteps of Bertram Thomas who first made this journey in 1931.

Mark shares numerous stories with Kenton, almost as if they are sitting around the fire in the middle of the desert. They cover clothing, food, hospitality, traditions, geographical boundaries and locust swarms! Mark also talks about his work with young people in the outdoor environment - the why behind his MBE.

Tune in to be transported to the deserts of Arabia!

Mark’s website: www.exploringwithpurpose.uk

Most recent expedition: www.jewelofarabiaexpedition.com

Expedition podcasts: www.podfollow.com/the-jewel-of-arabia-expedition