No Ordinary Adventure

No Ordinary Adventure by UnCruise Adventures

Captain Dan Blanchard weaves together narrative stories about his time on the sea, supporting sustainable travel, industry news, travel tips, and real conversations about creating adventure at any age. This is a place for a community of nature lovers, intrepid travelers, and industry experts sharing their love of this fascinating planet. This is a place to fill your heart and your head with travels in nature, hear interviews with people around the world and the movement behind Dan creating his own high-end travel company. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Trudi's Baja: A Tale of Desert Adventures and Cultural Ties
Nov 13 2023
Trudi's Baja: A Tale of Desert Adventures and Cultural Ties
Join Captain Dan Blanchard, the spirited host of "No Ordinary Adventure," and CEO of UnCruise Adventures as he welcomes Trudi, the well known guide and owner of "Saddling South," for an enthralling conversation about the hidden gems of Loreto, Baja Mexico. Trudi, with her decades of experience traversing the deserts of Baja, brings a wealth of knowledge and captivating stories to this episode she shares with the listeners and guests on her tours.In this inspiring episode, Trudi shares her unique insights into the local culture of Baja, the allure of its vast deserts, and the intimate community connections she's fostered over the years. Dan and Trudi delve into how UnCruise Adventures and Trudi Tours collaborate to offer experiences that go beyond the ordinary, connecting guests with the heart and soul of the places they visit and what she has coming up next with a film about her life in the area.Listeners will be transported to the rugged landscapes of Baja, learning about the authentic experiences that await with UnCruise Adventures. From the vibrant local communities to the serene beauty of the desert, this episode is a treasure trove of stories and insights for anyone passionate about off-the-beaten-path travel.Follow Trudi and her adventures:Saddling South Tours and Info: SaddlingSouth.comWatch more on her tours on YouTube: SlowBaja.comFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: @UnCruiseFacebook: UnCruise AdventuresInstagram: @uncruiseDiscover more at UnCruise.comContact Us:Email: pr@uncruise.comLeave us a voice message for the podcast: SpeakPipeWhether you're a seasoned explorer or just beginning your travel journey, this episode is sure to ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to embark on your own extraordinary adventure.
From Windy City to Island Bliss: Mike Carroll on Art, Adventure, and Aloha Spirit
Sep 22 2023
From Windy City to Island Bliss: Mike Carroll on Art, Adventure, and Aloha Spirit
In this vibrant episode of "No Ordinary Adventure," we drift away to the picturesque island of Lana'i with renowned artist Mike Carroll. From Chicago's bustling streets to Hawaii's serene landscapes, Mike shares his journey of art, discovery, and embracing the way of the Hawaiian people. Dive into the tales of his journey living and building in the islands and meeting people to collaborate with like, Dan Blanchard, CEO of UnCruise Adventures.  Talk inspiration, making your own way, and how to support the return of travel and rebuild to the town of Lahaina and Maui after the recent fires on the island. Listen in on the allure of the Hawaiian culture, and the essence of community support post-fires. A symphony of painting, passion, and purpose are all discussed in this episode.Key Highlights:Mike's Transition from Chicago to Lana'i: How the allure of the Hawaiian Islands inspired a life-changing move.Artistry Amidst Nature: The intertwining relationship between Mike's paintings and Hawaii's enchanting beauty.The Heart of Hawaiian Culture: Understanding and respecting the way of the Hawaiian people and their unwavering spirit of community.Collaboration with UnCruise Adventures: Mike sheds light on his work and meeting UnCruise CEO, more adventure stories.Rekindling Hawaii Post-Fires: The role of art, adventure, and community in supporting the islands' return to travel after recent devastation.Mike Carroll Gallery Spotlight: A glimpse into the gallery that showcases the essence of Hawaii through colors and canvases. See the visuals on the UnCruise Adventures, YouTube Channel. Future Endeavors: What's next for Mike, his art, and his adventures in the Hawaiian archipelago.For more on Mike Carrol's studio visit: MikeCarrolGallery.comFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruise
The Heartbeat of Nature: A Deep Dive with Amy Gulick
Aug 15 2023
The Heartbeat of Nature: A Deep Dive with Amy Gulick
Join us for a journey into the wild as we sit down with renowned American nature and wildlife photographer, Amy Gulick. A founding Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, Gulick’s award-winning images have graced the pages of some of the most respected environmental publications like National Audubon Society, National Wildlife Federation, and the Sierra Club, among others.In this episode, we journey back to 2001, as Amy details her three-week photography expedition to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge – a monumental effort that secured her the coveted Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Award the following year. Gulick also reflects on the prestigious accolades she's garnered throughout her illustrious career, including the Daniel Houseberg Wilderness Image Award and the Phillip Hyde grant.Intrigued by the unique symbiotic relationship between the people of Alaska and the wild salmon, Amy embarked on a journey that became the foundation of her new book, "The Salmon Way: An Alaska State of Mind." Venturing into the Alaskan frontier, she delves deep into the web of human relationships revolving around these majestic fish. From working alongside commercial fishermen and learning the rhythms of the sea to immersing herself in Alaska Native traditions of fish preservation and cultural heritage, she sought to capture the essence of a state of mind unique to this region. Sport fishing guides expanded her horizons, teaching her not just the art of the catch but also the philosophy inherent in their way of life. Everywhere she turned, Amy encountered the generosity of the Alaskan spirit, where people from all walks of life shared their salmon-rich lives in kitchens, cabins, and remote fish camps. This is the "salmon way," a testament to the indomitable spirit of Alaska and its people.Her book, "Salmon in the Trees: Life in Alaska's Tongass Rainforest" is also an intimate portrayal of one of Earth's rarest ecosystems, the book takes readers on a vivid exploration of the symbiotic relationship between salmon and the towering trees of the Tongass rainforest. With bears, misty islands, salmon streams, and native cultures as its backbone, the book is a testament to the delicate balance of nature and the looming threats posed by global demands.Gulick shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes, from encounters with native communities to the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales cruising the forested shorelines.Tune in to discover the beauty, challenges, and stories she has.For news, photography, contact, and engagements: Amy Gulick Images and StoriesTo purchase Gulick’s books: The Salmon Way: An Alaska State of Mind — Books (mountaineers.org)Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise Adventures Twitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruise Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruise
Through the Porthole with Bill Panoff
May 12 2023
Through the Porthole with Bill Panoff
Join Captain Dan Blanchard and Bill Panoff, a renowned travel expert and host of the Travel Series, Cruise and Travel. Bill, the publisher of Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine and Chairman, brings  35 years of expertise in the cruise and travel industry to the conversation.In this captivating episode, Bill shares his recent experience aboard the Wilderness Discoverer with UnCruise in Alaska. As Bill and Captain Dan delve into their shared passion for travel, they explore the charm and allure of smaller, more intimate ships that foster a sense of community among passengers. They discuss the joy of meeting new people from different walks of life, forging connections, and fostering a love for exploration. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an aspiring adventurer, this conversation will inspire you to embark on your own extraordinary voyage.Follow Bill Panoff on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CruiseControlBP/Follow Bill Panoff on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruisetravelbp/Follow Bill Panoff on Twitter: https://twitter.com/panoffbillSubscribe to Cruise and Travel With Bill Panoff on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CruiseControlbpRead Porthole Cruise & Travel Magazine: https://porthole.com/Like Porthole on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portholecruiseFollow Porthole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portholecruise/Follow Porthole on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PortholeCruiseFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Alaska UnVeiled - A Fascinating Journey Through the Eyes of the Alaska Travel Industry Association
Mar 16 2023
Alaska UnVeiled - A Fascinating Journey Through the Eyes of the Alaska Travel Industry Association
Captain Dan Blanchard recently sat down with the Alaska Travel Industry Association to discuss the tourism industry in Alaska. The conversation covered various topics, including how people migrate to Alaska, and the challenges facing the tourism industry in the state, and offered expert travel tips for those visiting Alaska. Alaska lures in travelers with its natural beauty, and the desire for a new adventure. Many people also visit Alaska for its wildlife, glaciers, and national parks.But due to Alaska’s remote location and vast size, it can be difficult to reach many parts of Alaska, and the harsh weather conditions can also be a barrier for travelers. Despite these challenges, the Alaska Travel Industry Association shared some expert travel tips for those planning a trip to Alaska. Whether you're considering a move to the state or planning a vacation, understanding the factors that shape the tourism industry in Alaska can help you better plan and enjoy your experience. Find more at www.alaskatia.org/Connect with ATIA on Instagram https://www.facebook.com/alaskatia And LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/alaska-travel-industry-associationFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Spark a Rebellion by Finding Your Why in Travel with Ryan Hodgson
Aug 10 2022
Spark a Rebellion by Finding Your Why in Travel with Ryan Hodgson
In this end-of-summer episode, Captain Dan catches up with a local Seattleite, Ryan Hodgson originally from the opposite side of the world in Perth, Australia. That's right, another adventure-loving Aussie on the roster! Ryan offers in-depth and motivational input on creating your why. Listen and learn about launching a transformative business to solo, group, family, and business travel and inspiring others to travel with passion and purpose.  We dive into overlapping stories, chances, and choosing fearless freedom throughout the various stages of life.Whether your next stop is starting a new venture or logging your 100th nomadic exploration, there's nothing like a well-told travel story and motivation to explore the world. If you've ever fantasized about changing up your 9-5 or enjoy hearing behind-the-scenes, boots-on-the-ground real talk, you'll probably want to listen to this podcast. Get out there and hit up some of those less touristy spaces following our UnTourism-themed values and explore what your why is!  Connect with Ryan In the US at: https://ryanintheus.com/Connect with Rysing Tide at: https://www.rysingtide.co/See Ryan with UnCruise Adventures at: https://ryanintheus.com/category/influencer-work/ Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Special Episode: The Thrill of Wine Tasting on the Rivers
Jul 29 2022
Special Episode: The Thrill of Wine Tasting on the Rivers
In this extended episode, Captain Dan chats with experienced sommelier Julie Brigham, a self-proclaimed wine nerd (and UnCruise Adventures crewmember), and Dunham Cellars Communications Manager, Breanna Maiuri as they sip and share about all things wine. Hear Captain Dan's first homemade wine-making experience at the age of 14. More wine inspiration from around the world, and the fantastic wines in our own backyard of Washington and Oregon states. Get comfortable, grab your own choice of wine, and let's recount childhood travel memories and how they connect to the olfactory senses in our brains and discerning wine flavors. We unfold the history of Dunham Cellars, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, and what you can expect when you journey with UnCruise on the Rivers of Adventure and Wine. Following a long tradition of storytelling in our episodes, we also dive into what to look for in wines, how they are aged, how to choose your favorites and other tasty vignettes and anecdotes throughout the interview. Come along for the No Ordinary Adventure!Connect with Dunham Cellars at: https://www.dunhamcellars.com/Order wine and join the wine club: https://www.dunhamcellars.com/Our-WinesGuests will visit Dunham Cellars on their 7-night adventure with UnCruise Adventures: https://uncruise.com/pages/rivers-of-adventure-and-wine-7-nightsFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
From Armchair Traveler to Travel with Meaning. The Man Behind TWM Podcast
Jun 2 2022
From Armchair Traveler to Travel with Meaning. The Man Behind TWM Podcast
Fresh out of another great adventure in the Sea of Cortez exploring all things wild with UnCruise, Mike Schibel, the founder of the Travel with Meaning Podcast shares some of his encounters with Captain Dan. From a career in Hollywood entertainment to authentic travel storytelling, Mike has created a space for travelers from all walks of life to share dreamy encounters from around the world. His enthusiasm for travel and building community sparked the idea to launch the Travel With Meaning platform now in its fifth season with an organically grown community. A motivating and moving discussion hits on everything from the pillars of travel, to the "new ROIII", yes, three I's, and what's next on their list! Captain Dan and Mike share their passion for entrepreneurship and the undertaking of building brands and epic adventures. Discover some behind-the-scenes stories, how to design more meaningful getaways, raise awareness of the need for sustainable and authentic travel, and reminders of how to slow down in the mega world around us. Plus a chance to share your own story with Mike to possibly be featured on the TWM podcast. Stay tuned, subscribe and listen anywhere, anytime! Share your story with Mike and his team https://www.travelwithmeaning.com/about-5Find more at TravelWithMeaning.com : https://www.travelwithmeaning.com/homeMeet the team: https://www.travelwithmeaning.com/who-we-areFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Malama Hawaii. Talking Regenerative Travel with Cultural Representative Kainoa Daines
Dec 19 2021
Malama Hawaii. Talking Regenerative Travel with Cultural Representative Kainoa Daines
Kainoa Daines is bringing Aloha to the people through his work as the Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau as Director of Culture and Product Development. In this episode listen in as he shares Hawaii's experience during no tourism in the height of COVID, re-setting the dial on nature, responsible tourism and new developments with the Malama Hawaii volunteer program. In this episode Captain Dan 'talks story' sharing experiences from both sides about travel, connection, safety, conservation and the Hawaiian culture. Move over boring, here comes adventure and cultureWith the new Malama program, several organizations offer opportunities for visitors to pay it forward, like beach clean-ups, native tree planting, and more. Engage in some of our volunteer opportunities below, and in exchange, experience Hawaii on a much deeper and connected level. Through the Malama Hawaii Program, you could qualify for a special discount or even a free night from a participating hotel when participating in its dedicated volunteer activity. Don't miss out on this episode, giving back and getting back your Aloha!More at visit Hawaii on Malama:  https://www.gohawaii.com/malamaHawaii Visitors Bureau website: https://www.hvcb.org/Voluntourism opportunities supported by Hawaii's Visitors Bureau: https://www.gohawaii.com/malama#asset-aid-12186 Recommended reads: Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen LiliuakalaniConnect with Kainoa Daines on InstagramFollow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Find more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Travel Stokes with the World's Number One Bucket List Expert
Sep 8 2021
Travel Stokes with the World's Number One Bucket List Expert
For those who love to travel, now feels like a time to get out there more than ever before! There is no magic bullet to when normal will be "normal" but we can talk plenty of travel stokes in the meantime with two adventurers who've been around the world. In this latest episode, Captain Dan talks with Trave Bell, a guy who's made a lifestyle out of a little blue book of travel wish lists! From Juneau to Melbourne the man who is known worldwide as THE Bucket List Guy shares his humor, insights, engaging stories, and truly unique way of travel all distilled into a 30-minute podcast. Trav Bell is an author, podcaster, CEO, travel coach, amateur DJ, and uplifting adventurer. He has plenty of humor and stories to share.  His goal? Making your bucket list happen now and throughout any stage of the pandemic, even in your own town.We dive into travel, adventure, and the intersection of finding happiness through accomplishing all things small to big.  If you're looking for great travel inspiration and the tools to do it right, this is a no-brainer listen. Stay safe and get outside. We will see you on board!Follow Trav Bell, The Bucket List Guy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bucketlistguy.travbell/Find more at TheBucketListGuy.comGet his book (hand-signed) at: https://www.thebucketlistguy.com/book/Listen to his podcast: https://www.thebucketlistguy.com/podcast/Become a Bucket List Coach:  https://www.bucketlistcoach.com/What Trav is reading now:  Mindset, Carol Dwick Ph.D Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncruise/Enter to win a cruise for two on the UnCruise Adventures website: Enter Now Find more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
Eyes for Cruising with Worldwide Travel Photographers Merrill Images
May 18 2021
Eyes for Cruising with Worldwide Travel Photographers Merrill Images
Ever felt the call of the wild and wanted to capture iconic travel images like the pros? Hear from professional travel photographers John and Lisa Merrill on their experiences from growing from amateur to pro, with a lot of adventure along the way. Listen in for tips and tricks for everything from DSLR cameras to iPhones and how to combine your unique view of the world with stunning images. Merrill Images is celebrating 25 years in business this year. They share how they've made it work, and how a change in the world allowed them to learn even more ways to create images and connect with photographers around the world.  In this episode, Captain Dan reconnects with the passion of capturing an image and the importance of conversation in photography where ever you are traveling. This is a great source for travel photography with plenty of travel adventures to share. Listen in on stories from small boat cruising, to overseas biking stories and mistaking a whale for a bear.  Captain Dan continues to weave his stories and share his knowledge of the world through conversations with diverse people. Join us!Follow Merrill Images and view full image galleries online.  Find more at MerrillImages.comJoin a photo workshop In Person, On Zoom, or In PersonFollow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/MerrillImages/Connect with them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/merrillimages Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseFind more at UnCruise.com  uncruise.comContact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventure
An American Overseas in a Pandemic - Bite Size Stories with Writer Todra Payne
Apr 25 2021
An American Overseas in a Pandemic - Bite Size Stories with Writer Todra Payne
Dan joins international travel writer and slow traveler from the other side of the world for a chat about creating personal growth and healing through travel and international experiences. If you are a traveler at heart, you'll love this fun bite-size travel story conversation.  Find out how to unplug, and unpack in countries around the world for your own slow travel experience from coach Todra Payne and discover sublime experiences by following your travel dreams. Todra goes from celebrity make-up artist in Los Angeles to traveling the world as a working professional, coach, writer, and house-sitter, with a full-time job in travel. If you’re looking to travel and explore life in unconventional ways, check out this episode and connect with Todra online. In this episode, we hear the tools of how to support your travels starting out, and what it's like traveling as a woman, female of color, and an American overseas during a worldwide pandemic. Join her online courses and coaching to learn to manifest your dreams and travel.  Find more at TravelLiveBreathe.comFollow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/todrapayne/Connect with her on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/travellivebreathe1/Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseFind more at UnCruise.com Contact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventur
Getting 'Rooted' in Regenerative Travel with JoAnna Haugen
Jan 19 2021
Getting 'Rooted' in Regenerative Travel with JoAnna Haugen
JoAnna Haugen has spent decades working in travel around the world as a writer and editor with magazines and adventure brands. She finds her space at the intersection of sustainable travel, environmental conservation, and community-based advocacy efforts. In this episode, Captain Dan dives into the inspiration behind her life in travel, running her own business, initiatives on regenerative travel, and how to become a conscious slow traveler who contributes to the communities around them. We look at how we can continue to explore our own backyards, and stay safe in the return to travel and learn ways to create our own travel-related businesses.   Find more at RootedStorytelling.comContact or book JoAnna at joanna@joannahaugen.comJoin her online courses at https://rootedstorytelling.com/courses/Follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rootedstorytelling/Twitter https://twitter.com/joanna_haugen?lang=enSupport the climate emergency by joining Tourism Declares, a community for resources and support: https://www.tourismdeclares.com/Interested in responsible consumer-facing content? Get to know Impact Travel Alliance: https://www.impacttravelalliance.org/Follow No Ordinary Adventure and UnCruise Adventures:YouTube: UnCruise AdventuresTwitter: https://twitter.com/UnCruiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnCruiseFind more at UnCruise.com Contact the team at pr@uncruise.comWant to know more or want to leave us a voice mail for the podcast? Leave us a message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/noordinaryadventur