Caroline Van Hemert, PhD, is a biologist, writer, and adventurer whose journeys have taken her from the pack ice of the Arctic Ocean to the swamps of the Okavango Delta
In March of 2012 she and her husband (Pat) set off on a 4,000-mile wilderness journey from the Pacific rainforest to the Alaskan Arctic, traveling by rowboat, ski, foot, raft, and canoe.
Together, they survived harrowing dangers while also experiencing incredible moments of joy and grace -- migrating birds silhouetted against the moon, the steamy breath of caribou, and the bond that comes from sharing such experiences.
During this podcast, Caroline shares more about her love of nature and birds. Plus, why she decided to embark on this adventure, she talks through the planning, the logistics, the finances, the challenges faced and what she learned from this experience. Caroline has also published her first book about this challenge - The Sun Is a Compass: A 4,000-Mile Journey into the Alaskan Wilds.
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Show notes
Caroline introduces herself
Growing up in Alaska
Studying for her PHD - birds and bird beaks!
How she met her now husband, Pat
Getting married in 2008 at a cabin they build in South East Alaska
Where the idea came from for this challenge
Coping with a variety of different challenges from her PHD to family illness
Working as part of a team with her husband and being focused on the logistics
Getting the maps out and starting to plan!!
Telling friends and family about the challenge….
Why she starts telling people - accountability
The power of lists
Coping with the unknowns during planning
Hard core stats
Having 1 year to plan and prepare
Money?
Hotels..in the Arctic!
Starting at the beginning
Bellingham - the start line and being overwhelmed
When reality set in
Getting back to nature
An overview of the trip and the different segments
Dealing with the physical transitions
The biggest challenge and why it was a mental challenge
The impact of adventure on relationships while out in stressful environments
The one moment which made it all worthwhile
Getting back to “normal” life
Her transition into motherhood
Advice and tips for other women - “Don’t be afraid to DREAM BIG”
10 years studying a scientific mystery…
Social Media
Instagram: @sunisacompass
Facebook: @carolinevanhemertauthor
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