Extreme Adventures In Mongolia, Madagascar & China

Ash Dykes Podcast

SEASON 1 EPISODE 1 – SUMMARY

In this podcast conversation, Chris Watson sits down with extreme adventurer, Ash Dykes

Ash Dykes is not just any traveler; he’s an extreme adventurer who has conquered what most of us only dream about.

In this first episode of “Adventure Diaries,” Ash shared his experiences on three of his world-first expeditions across Mongolia, Madagascar, and along the mighty Yangtze River in China.

Named the UK Adventurer of the Year and author of the inspirational book Mission Possible, Ash’s stories are nothing short of extraordinary.

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From Small Beginnings

Ash’s journey began in the modest surroundings of Old Colwyn Bay in Wales.

What started with a childhood filled with sports and outdoor activities evolved into undertaking some of the most daunting challenges around the globe.

From trekking the Gobi Desert to navigating the entire length of the Yangtze River, Ash’s adventures are fueled by a desire to test his limits and inspire others.

World-First Expeditions

  • Crossing Mongolia: Ash became the first person to walk solo and unsupported across Mongolia, a grueling 1,500-mile journey that took him through extreme weather conditions and diverse terrains.
  • Madagascar: He then tackled Madagascar, walking 1,600 miles north to south and climbing its eight highest mountains. This journey exposed him to unique wildlife and challenging climates, making it both a physical and mental feat.
  • Yangtze River: Perhaps his most ambitious adventure, Ash trekked 4,000 miles along the Yangtze River. This mission was fraught with political, cultural, and physical challenges, including navigating through sensitive regions and encountering dangerous wildlife.

During the podcast, Ash detailed his harrowing and exhilarating experiences on his three major expeditions:

The Power of Resilience and Preparation

Ash’s stories are a testament to the power of resilience and meticulous preparation.

He shared detailed insights into the importance of planning and the need to adapt to changing conditions, which are crucial for overcoming the challenges of such extreme adventures.

Key Takeaways

  • Ash Dykes is an extreme adventurer known for his world first expeditions in Mongolia and Madagascar.
  • He was inspired to explore Mongolia after realizing it was an overlooked destination and a potential world first.
  • Ash’s journey in Mongolia was mentally and physically challenging, with encounters with wolves and survival in the Gobi Desert.
  • In Madagascar, Ash aimed to walk the entire length of the country and partnered with conservation organizations to raise awareness. Raising awareness for charities and causes is an important aspect of Ash Dykes’ expeditions.
  • Proper preparation and mental fortitude are crucial in overcoming challenges and near-death experiences.
  • Receiving support from locals and giving back to communities are rewarding aspects of expeditions.
  • Exploring local outdoor activities can provide adventure and personal growth.

Call To Adventure

  • You can all have your own adventure. I think people sort of overanalyze and over plan and always think that they need to be abroad, but they don’t realize it’s on your doorstep.
  • I’m breaking it back down to my beginnings. All of my adventures were done. on my doorstep, you can do hiking, you can do cycling, canoeing, kayaking, mountain trekking, you know, that it’s all there.
  • One that I did was charity challenge, where you can actually take a trip abroad, tick off a huge bucket list, trek, mountains, great water, but also whilst raising funds for charity.
  • Or just doing it as a personal goal to help with growth, help with mindset and just enjoy the experience.

Pay It Forward

  • I think it would be for Malaria No More UK.
  • I Think they’re really doing everything that they can volunteering all their time for free to To help fight this battle against malaria.
  • You know, the world saw COVID-19. COVID has absolutely nothing on malaria. Malaria is a different beast, but we don’t have it here in the UK.
  • So out of sight is out of mind. But in Africa, in these other regions, they really are suffering. And I think it’s every two minutes a child dies of malaria.
  • And in order to recover, the medication is the cup of a coffee.
    But they don’t have that money. They can’t afford a cup of coffee. So therefore they lose their life because of it.
  • And so yeah, I would definitely say malaria no more UK because they have eradicated malaria from many countries and they’re winning the battle but they just need that extra help, that extra support.

Dive Deeper into the Adventure

For those intrigued by Ash Dykes’ incredible stories and the detailed recount of his adventures, listening to the full episode of “Adventure Diaries” is a must.

His tales not only stir the spirit of adventure but also showcase how one person’s journey can illuminate the beauty and harsh realities of our world.

Embark on your own adventure by tuning into this inspiring episode and discover how you can also make a difference, whether through your own adventure, explorations or impactful charity work.

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