533 Letters from the Edge: Jeff Wilser Reveals the Heart of Modern Exploration

On this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, host Rick Saez sits down with Jeff Wilser—author of eight books, public speaker, and host of the AI Curious podcast.

Show Notes

What Happened:
I used to think I had life figured out. I had a solid job as a financial analyst at Intel—great salary, smart people, secure future. Until one day, I opened a spreadsheet that was supposed to “plan out my life”… and instead, it triggered an existential crisis.

There, nestled between columns for “MBA programs” and “historical PhD options,” I typed something ridiculous: Writer (no money in it, but sounds fun?)

Spoiler alert: I chose the row that made the least sense on paper and the most sense in my gut. That wild decision snowballed. Fast forward: I’ve written eight books, roamed the globe with nothing but a carry-on, and now I’m talking to literal astronauts and storm chasers for my work.

One unexpected place that captured my heart? The Explorers Club—a community where someone casually mentions they're just back from the bottom of the ocean like it’s no big deal. It’s Hogwarts for grown-up adventurers.

---

Principle:
Curiosity is more than a trait—it’s a compass. Whether you're exploring a jungle, a new career path, or a better version of yourself… the only real mistake is not following the pull. Most people think they need a clear roadmap. But the truth? Most of the good stuff happens when you're in over your head and you keep going anyway.

---

Transition:
The reason most people never “make the leap” isn’t because they’re not brave. It’s because they’re waiting for permission. Or clarity. Or a guarantee. But exploration—real, meaningful exploration—only begins after you leave the comfort zone. And sadly, most people don’t even realize they’re stuck in one.

---

That’s Why:
That’s why this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast is so important. We dive into what modern exploration actually looks like today—from scientists risking their lives for climate research to curious souls chasing the edge of what’s possible. And how the The Explorers Club is quietly shaping that future… without the chest-pounding.

---

Call to Action:
Feeling stuck in a loop of “maybe someday”? That itch you can’t quite name? That’s curiosity knocking. Don’t ignore it. Instead, listen to this episode and rediscover the spark you’ve been missing. The edge is calling—and this is your sign to answer it.

🎧 [Listen to the full episode here]

Follow Jeff

Linkedin

Facebook

The Explorers Club

🎧 Click here to listen to the episode and learn how to stop pitching and start connecting.
(Then go outside and do something awesome.)