The Overland Journal Podcast

On this episode of the Overland Journal Podcast, host Scott Brady welcomes James Fountain, a cultural geographer and fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Explorers Club, to discuss how exploration can support communities and science. Fountain shares how Overland Journal first inspired him, formative work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the United Nations remapping roads, and how cultural geography examines how landscapes shape cultures. They compare happiness and development through examples like Malawi and Bhutan, including Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness and conservation policies, and discuss reducing travel gear and impact. Fountain recounts an am...

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with Zenith Irfan to discuss the importance of being the first female Pakistani motorcyclist to ride across Pakistan, and how her father’s dream led her to embark on the journey on a 70cc Honda. Zenith also dives into her top tips for visiting the country, including geography, what to wear, eat, and drink, and what to expect in various regions of Pakistan. 

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with Katie Harris of the Road Chose Me to discuss the overlap between human- and vehicle-powered adventure, and her experiences overlanding Australia, Iceland, and Tunisia with her partner, Dan, and daughter, Aurora. Katie dives into the details of hiking the Camino de Santiago with a young child, and the importance of community and the power of returning home to a place you truly love.

On this episode of the Overland Journal Podcast hosts Matt Scott and Scott Brady explore the future of overlanding, focusing on new technologies and trends. They highlight portable fridges with hot-swappable batteries (like EcoFlow/Bluetti) that offer extended runtime, device charging, and solar input, potentially eliminating complex dual-battery setups. They also discuss the rise of simpler lithium power packs as all-in-one alternatives, noting security concerns off-road. The conversation covers rapid battery advancements and the impact of satellite connectivity (Starlink) on remote work, while emphasizing the importance of disconnecting during travel. They note easier logistics due to e-visas, cautioned about...

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with adventure motorcyclist, author, and traveler Heather Lea to discuss the realities of long-term travel. Topics include navigating new relationships, complex logistics, the joys and challenges of riding as a woman, and encountering the kindness of strangers along the way.

Rachelle Croft joined Scott Brady on the Overland Journal podcast to discuss how women’s off-road rallies and international travel have helped shape her leadership and mindset. A veteran of the Rebelle Rally (including a 2019 win, 2020 second-place finish, and returning in 2025 as part of Toyota’s official 4Runner Trailhunter team), she detailed how the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles in Morocco was a personal turning point, teaching mental resilience and problem-solving under pressure. Croft emphasizes the importance of clear communication, managing stress in team environments, and prioritizing joy in travel. As CEO of the Overland Collective, she focuses on commu...

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with South African overlander Adrian Abrahams to discuss his love of traveling in Namibia, and how nearly a decade of overlanding has shaped a new 4x4 shop endeavor in Cape Town, South Africa. Adrian also provides practical advice about visiting the country, including destination recommendations, while Ashley tries to pronounce several Afrikaans words essential to the overland traveler.

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with adventure motorcyclist, author, and traveler Elspeth Beard, who was one of the first women to ride around the world by motorcycle. Elspeth dives into the details of her two-year round-the-world trip, from 1982 to 1984 on a 1974 BMW R60 bike, and how the experience changed her life, including the highs and lows of such an intense adventure. 

In this episode of the Overland Journal podcast, host Scott Brady chats with longtime friend and veteran overlander Kurt Williams. Kurt, a seasoned traveler known for his expertise with Land Cruisers and extensive global expeditions, discusses his adventures across six continents, including his latest trip through West Africa. Together, they delve into favorite travel memories, vehicle build simplicity, the importance of training, and their philosophy of occasionally stepping away from technical perfection to enjoy the journey. Kurt also shares his insights on the significance of adaptability and a positive mindset during long-haul trips, offering valuable advice for both new...

Join hosts Scott Brady and Matt Scott for the Overland Journal podcast's 2025 year-end review. They discuss a range of topics from personal adventures to industry trends, including Matt's deep dive into classic cars, Scott's monumental travel across Africa, and their experiences with various overland vehicles like the Grenadier and the Scout camper. They also touch upon the changing landscape of the overland community post-COVID and the rise of electric vehicles in overlanding. Tune in to hear their reflections on a transformative year and their plans for 2026.

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with Leigh and Steph Dearle of GrizzlyNBear Overland as they reflect on nine years of full-time international overland travel. Leigh and Steph dive into their daily routine, how their travel style has changed over time, and how a recent overhaul of their 2010 Land Rover Defender 130 changed the way they overland.

Join Overland Journal Podcast host Ashley Giordano as she sits down with travel journalist and guide Breanna Wilson to discuss what you need to know about overlanding in Mongolia. Wilson also dives into her journey from Georgia to Mongolia in her trusty 78-Series Troopy, and reflects on her most special memories in the country.

In this episode of the Overland Journal podcast, host Scott Brady speaks with Eric and Brittany of 'Hourless Life' as they  discuss their journey full of adventures and unique experiences. Eric and Brittany recount the challenges and highlights of their incredible trip down through the Americas, including confronting mechanical issues in Patagonia, the impact of experiencing new cultures, and their emotional arrival in Ushuaia. They also reflect on personal growth, the dynamics of traveling as a family, and friendships forged on the road. The family shares future plans, lessons learned about vehicle setups, and anecdotes that capture the unpredictability a...

In this episode of the Overland Journal Podcast, host Scott Brady interviews Susan Dragoo, a historian and regular contributor to Overland Journal. The conversation spans Susan's passion for history and her adventures in overlanding and hiking. They discuss her recent work on the Butterfield Trail, a historic stagecoach route, delving into the challenges and discoveries along the way. Susan also shares stories from her hiking experiences, including a memorable trek to Everest Base Camp, and her insights on becoming a successful photojournalist. The episode emphasizes the importance of intertwining historical research with outdoor exploration and the rewards of uncovering...