• EP 722: The Explorer's Gene: Understanding Our Drive for Adventure

  • Mar 26 2025
  • Length: 1 hr and 9 mins
  • Podcast

EP 722: The Explorer's Gene: Understanding Our Drive for Adventure

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  • Summary

  • What drives us to venture into the unknown—even when there’s no finish line or prize at the end? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with author and science journalist Alex Hutchinson to explore the ideas behind his new book, The Explorer’s Gene: Why we Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map. From ancient Polynesian voyages to backyard adventures with his kids, Alex uncovers how the drive to explore is deeply rooted in both our biology and our upbringing. We discuss how exploration shapes personal growth, why uncertainty triggers our motivation, and how everyday choices can satisfy our innate desire for discovery.

    • Make sure you have his award-winning book, Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance, which explores the boundaries of human potential on your reading list.
    • Visit the Sweat Science website to learn more about Alex and everything he has going on.

    Episode Sponsors:

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    • Wonderful Pistachios
    • FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app
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