In this Part 2 conversation, I’m back with Aaron Millar, award-winning travel writer and host of The Armchair Explorerpodcast. If you haven’t heard Part 1 yet — jump back and catch up — because in this episode, we go deeper into the world of adventure travel, travel writing, storytelling, and podcasting with purpose.

Aaron shares epic stories from his adventures — from descending into a volcano in Iceland to trekking with Shugendo monks in Japan, meditating beneath icy waterfalls and reflecting on the power of discomfort and growth. But this isn’t just about the adventure — it’s about how to tell the story in a way that moves people.

We dive into:

• How to create powerful podcast intros that hook your audience in seconds
• Why the first 30–45 seconds of a podcast episode are make or break
• The difference between travel writing vs. holiday blogging
• What makes a story repeatable and relevant for editors and listeners alike
• Tips for immersive storytelling using ambient sound, music, and editing
• Why planning your story arc before the trip can make or break the final product
• How to deal with disappointing travel experiences and still create magic

Whether you're a travel writer, podcaster, or someone with a passion for storytelling, Aaron's insights into narrative structure, authenticity, and the ethics of travel content will inspire you to level up your craft — and maybe even go book that bucket list adventure.

🎧 About The Armchair Explorer Podcast

The Armchair Explorer is an award-winning travel podcast that brings the world’s most inspiring adventures to life through immersive storytelling, cinematic music, and real traveler voices. Hosted by travel writer Aaron Millar, each episode is crafted like a documentary — designed to transport you to wild, remote, and fascinating corners of the planet, all from the comfort of your headphones.

Named one of The Guardian's best travel podcasts, The Armchair Explorer isn't just about places — it’s about the emotions, transformations, and deeper connections travel can inspire. Whether it’s horseback riding from Canada to Brazil, cage diving with great white sharks, or stargazing in the highlands of Tenerife, each episode takes you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Armchair Explorer

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A final thanks to Aaron for coming on the show; there are a lot of crucial nuggets in there for anyone looking to be a travel writer, podcaster, or to seek out their next adventure. I am sure there are many more subjects to explore in the future with Aaron, but for now, dive in and enjoy our conversations!

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro to Part 2 and recap of Part 1

01:05 – The legend of the Shugendo monks and their mythical powers

03:20 – What it means to tell a compelling story in travel writing

05:45 – Why a great...

Part 1 - Flesh-Eating Crabs, Legendary Pub Crawls & Immersive Travel Storytelling w/ Aaron Millar (The Armchair Explorer Podcast)

In this wildly entertaining and deeply insightful episode, James sits down with Aaron Millar, award-winning travel writer and host of The Armchair Explorer Podcast — once named the best travel podcast by The Guardian. From epic pub crawls across England to one of his podcast guests surviving a flesh-eating crab attack in South Africa, Aaron shares his most unbelievable stories, creative processes, and philosophy behind storytelling that feels like travel.

We dive into:

• Aaron’s early adventures hiking the Swiss Alps as a teen
• His unconventional journey from the music industry to travel journalism
• The 100-mile South Downs pub crawl that kickstarted his writing career
• How blagging a “galactic safari” in Tenerife got him published in The Sunday Times
• The gruesome true story of one of his podcast guests getting eaten alive (partially) by crabs
• Why immersive audio is the future of travel storytelling
• Tips for aspiring podcasters and travel writers
• How storytelling can challenge life norms and inspire change
• A philosophical look at why travel changes people

Aaron’s professional writing has appeared in major publications such as The Times, The Guardian, National Geographic Traveller, and Conde Nast Traveller. He's been a regular columnist and feature writer covering adventure, sustainability, and culture, and has also authored several travel books. Aaron brings a rare blend of narrative skill and on-the-ground experience that makes his work both entertaining and deeply human.

🎧 About The Armchair Explorer Podcast

The Armchair Explorer is an award-winning travel podcast that brings the world’s most inspiring adventures to life through immersive storytelling, cinematic music, and real traveler voices. Hosted by travel writer Aaron Millar, each episode is crafted like a documentary — designed to transport you to wild, remote, and fascinating corners of the planet, all from the comfort of your headphones.

Named one of The Guardian's best travel podcasts, The Armchair Explorer isn't just about places — it’s about the emotions, transformations, and deeper connections travel can inspire. Whether it’s horseback riding from Canada to Brazil, cage diving with great white sharks, or stargazing in the highlands of Tenerife, each episode takes you on a journey you’ll never forget.

We had such a good time recording this episode that we came back a few days later to complete Part 2, which will be out next on Winging It. We will delve further into Aaron's podcast, exploring the importance of immersive storytelling, the differences between work and leisure travel as a travel professional, the emotive truth rather than visual spectacles, and more about Aaron's travels.

Whether you're into epic travel mishaps, audio storytelling tips, or just want to hear a grown man outwit a swarm of crabs, this episode has something for you.

Armchair Explorer

Website

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A Weekend Camping Getaway to Hicks Lake, British Columbia – Nature Therapy, Campfires & Lake Views

Step into the wild with this immersive audio experience as I take you camping to Hicks Lake in beautiful British Columbia. This is my first camping trip of 2025, and it's everything you'd want from a weekend escape: crackling campfires, misty morning lake views, soulful walks through the forest, and moments of deep peace by the water.

Recorded on location, this episode puts you right in the heart of the action, from the soft rustle of trees to the warmth of a fireside cup of tea. I sleep in a cosy minicamper van, cook simple meals outdoors, and share reflections on the healing power of nature. You'll hear it all as it happens: the soothing sound of coffee brewing at sunrise, the crunch of gravel underfoot during lake hikes, and the laughter around the fire.

Whether you're dreaming about your next BC camping trip, need a mental escape, or love nature's soundtrack, this episode is your ticket to Hicks Lake.

In this episode, you’ll experience:

• A cinematic journey through the forests and shores of Hicks Lake
• What it’s like sleeping in a converted camper van in chilly spring temps
• Fireside chats, marshmallow debates, and cosy food rituals
• The peaceful rhythm of a day outdoors — unplugged and tech-free
• A local tip to end your weekend at Cypress Mountain with epic Vancouver views

Perfect for listeners who love:

• Camping in Canada
• Solo or couple vanlife adventures
• British Columbia nature travel
• ASMR-style immersive travel podcasts
• Slow travel and mental reset inspiration

🎧 Press play and let Hicks Lake take you away.

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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com

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