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
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...
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.