Dec 15, 2025
In today’s episode—the first in a brand-new series exploring the deeper meaning behind our outdoor experiences—I sit down with my longtime friend, pastor, everyday explorer, and deep thinker, Reed Dunn, for one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had on this podcast. This first installment leans less on adrenaline and more on the why—why we’re drawn to the outdoors, why hardship shapes us, and why so many of us pursue experiences that push us into awe, wonder, and transcendence.
Reed and I dig into the spiritual side of adventure—what it means to connect with something beyond ourselves, whether you call that God or a higher power. We unpack the way wilderness confronts our limits, how beauty can shake us awake, and why disciplines of “no” might be more important today than ever. And of course, we talk about Reed’s years of backpacking, his favorite place in the world, and the moments that have stayed with him long after the trip ended.
⏱️ Timeline Summary
Here are the top moments from the episode:
[00:16:00] – Kicking off the conversation:
why I wanted Reed on the show and how his story fits into “the
meaning side” of adventure.
[00:26:00] –
Reed’s early backpacking years—Colorado, Arkansas, the Buffalo
River Trail, and how those experiences shaped him.
[00:35:00] – The
memory of his favorite place on earth: a glacial lake, seven
waterfalls, and the power of remembering without a
camera.
[00:36:00] – A
deep dive into spirituality: what it means to connect with
transcendence, how nature becomes a pathway, and why
anyone—regardless of belief—can access it.
[00:46:00] –
Religion vs. spirituality: Reed breaks down the difference between
learning about God and
meeting God—and why both matter.
[01:13:00] –
Exploring hardship, asceticism, and the spiritual importance of
limitation. Why “telling yourself no” opens doors to
meaning.
[01:22:00] – The
connection between ancient spiritual practices, desert monks, and
modern adventurers who push themselves to the edge in search of
something more.
🔗 Links & Resources
-
Reed’s book, When You Don't Have Words: Praying the Psalms — available wherever you buy books
-
Reed Dunn on social media:
- Locations discussed: Colorado trail systems, Buffalo River Trail (AR), Wind River Range (WY), Appalachian Trail (ME/NH section)
- Find us on our new On Adventure Podcast YouTube channel where you can see the full interviews. Also give us a like and a review while you're at it!
🙌 Closing Remark
If this conversation stirred something in you, inspired you, or made you think differently about why we chase adventure in the first place, I’d love for you to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. It helps more everyday explorers find these stories—and it keeps great conversations like this one coming.
Thanks for listening, and keep living your adventure on purpose.