Recently I was asked to give a keynote presentation to high school students attending the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership conference. Being a virtual event this year I put together a video about my nomadic wanderings and why I pursue an AntiComfortable lifestyle.
In the presentation I talk about how quitting my job to hike the Appalachian Trail inspired my AntiComfortable dreams to continue to challenge myself physically, live with less, and see more of the world.
The Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation (HOBY) organizes seminars for high school students to develop their leadership and teamwork skills and inspire them to live a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. I was honored to present to these young leaders as I myself had a similar opportunity in high school when I attended RYLA, the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards conference.
It felt a little awkward talking about myself into a webcam for 20 minutes and I really hope I didn’t convince any high schoolers to drop out and move into a van. I’m humbled that my friend Chris Hager and HOBY’s planning committee invited me to share my story, and if you’re in need of a 20 minute time filler, here’s my AntiComfortable keynote presentation!
Tarzan, Wtched your presentation and enjoyed it so much. I have changed a lot of things since my AT thru hike but I can’t compare to you. You are an inspirtion and I am so glad we met. Keep adventuring and continue the inspiration to all of us. Love ya man!
Thank you Mamaw B!!! The AT really was an incredible adventure, hope to see you somewhere again soon!!!
Happened upon this by listening to Scott Jurek’s book and hearing him mention your name. Started me down a rabbit hole and I ended up here. Glad I did.
That’s awesome! Yeah, the AT was pretty incredible. I got pretty lucky being able to help out with Scott and Jenny’s adventure and had a blast with them. Cheers!
Live more with less!!!
Fascinating Chris! I met you years back in Kalamazoo prior to your Anticomfortable Lifestyle change. THIS is a very inspirational and well done video. You covered so much information in 20 minutes!!! My husband and I have been talking for a while now about going minimalist and have actually started the transition about a month ago. We want life to be easier so we can see and do more. Best wishes to you on your next adventure and thank you for sharing your awesome story.
Thank you for the message Julie, that sounds awesome! I’ve definitely found that the less I have, the less I have to worry about and the more I can enjoy everything else. Good luck and have fun!!!!