What do white-water rafting trips, rock climbing ascents, multi-day hikes, treks through the jungle, and safaris through the bush have in common? They are led by adventure guides. This seemingly glamorous profession attracts wanderlust-filled souls, but it isn’t all that it appears to be. What does it take to become a good guide? What are the often-overlooked difficulties of this field? And, most importantly, why are adventure guides important for facilitating conservation action?
In today’s episode, we’re sitting down with Colby Brokvist, a professional adventure guide and author. Colby spent most of his childhood exploring the outdoors, and he knew that he wanted to pursue a degree in environmental sciences in college. However, when his career wasn’t following the trajectory he envisioned, he packed his bags and hiked the entire Appalachian Trail – a journey that took him over five months to complete. While on the trail, he and his hiking companion became the local resource for the dos and don’ts of the trail, which inspired him to pursue guiding. Fast forward to present day, and now Colby leads conservation travel trips all around the world. Since the adventure travel sector is growing at a significant rate, Colby recently published a book called THE PROFESSIONAL GUIDE’S HANDBOOK: How to Lead Adventure Travel Trips and Expeditions. If you’ve wondered what it takes to become a world-class guide, are considering becoming a guide, or wonder where adventure guiding fits in the conservation realm, then you’re in for a treat.
Alright, everyone. Here is my interview with Colby.