In Part 2 of this extraordinary conversation, Just Wondering host Norm Hitzges continues his deep dive into the incredible life of explorer Karl Bushby — the man walking his way into history. For nearly three decades, Karl has trekked over 36,000 miles across the globe, chasing his dream to be the first person ever to walk all the way around the world.
In this episode, Karl opens up about the most dangerous chapters of his expedition: facing guerrillas in the Darien Gap, being detained in Russia after crossing the frozen Bering Strait, and the mental grind of keeping his journey alive through political obstacles and personal sacrifice. He also shares stories of unexpected kindness from strangers, evolving technology that reshaped his travels, and how strict rules of his mission — no skipping, no shortcuts — have kept him honest through every mile.
This is not just a travelogue. It’s a raw, adventurous story about human resilience, determination, and what happens when you simply refuse to quit.
Sign up for Norm's Picks of the Pole, here: https://payhip.com/PicksofthePolewithNormHitzges or email Norm for picks: norm13tenmail.com
Chapters:
0:01 – Karl Bushby’s epic journey nears its final stretch
2:23 – A 27-year walk: rules, purpose, and determination
8:00 – From $500 in Patagonia to worldwide support
12:34 – The strict “no skipping” rules that shaped the expedition
15:19 – Crossing the Bering Strait and detention in Russia
18:45 – Danger in the Darien Gap: guerrillas, gunpoint, and survival
20:57 – Norm wraps with sports picks, steakhouse talk, and sponsors
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