Today, on episode 504 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, we’re talking with Norie Quintos. Nori is an independent journalist and editor. She is a contributor to National Geographic and the former executive director of National Geographic Traveler.
She is also a communications consultant working with destinations and travel companies to find and tell their stories. Her work is focused on the areas of sustainable and responsible travel.
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Subject: What a Red Puffy Jacket, a Black Lab, and the Tetons Taught Me About Adventure
I discovered the magic of nature only after realizing my feet were literally black with dirt.
– Norie Quintos
What Happened:
If you told 12-year-old me that one day I’d be preaching the gospel of nature and conservation on a podcast, she would’ve laughed in your face while clutching her Lisa Frank diary.
Back then, I was a hardcore indoors kid. My travel dreams were less “hike the Andes” and more “sip coffee outside a museum in Paris.” Nature? Great in theory. From a safe, clean, bathroom-accessible distance.
But life had other plans. Specifically, two kids and a deep desire for them to experience something I hadn’t: the outdoors.
Our first trip? My sister’s backyard with a borrowed tent and questionable gear. But hey—we survived. That spiraled into state park weekends, and eventually, a full-on wagon adventure at the foot of the Tetons—cue canvas tents, no showers, and yes—leeches.
My soles were blacker than a burnt marshmallow, and I seriously questioned my life choices… until someone said, “It’s dirt, but it’s not dirty.” Mind. Blown.
That moment changed everything.
Principle:
Adventure doesn’t require a plane ticket or a trust fund. It’s not always epic views and adrenaline rushes. Sometimes, it’s dirt, discomfort, and doing something that stretches you just enough to see the world—and yourself—a little differently.
That shift in perspective? That’s where the real story begins. It’s not just about going places. It’s about who you become because you did.
Transition:
But here’s the thing… Most of us still think “adventure” only counts if it looks like a Patagonia ad. We think our stories aren’t worth telling unless they involve wild landscapes or bucket list bragging rights.
The problem? That belief keeps so many of us from starting. From exploring our own backyards. From seeing travel as a tool for transformation, not just content creation.
That’s Why:
That’s why this episode with Norie Quintos hit home. Because it’s not just about where you go—it’s about how you go. Norie’s journey from suburban indoor kid to global storyteller proves that the adventure industry isn’t just changing—it’s opening up.
She shares how regenerative travel is replacing tourism-as-usual, and why women over 50 are redefining what solo travel—and real power—looks like.
Call to Action:
Feeling stuck thinking your next adventure needs to be “epic” or expensive? That mindset’s the real roadblock. Break free with Norie’s story—because once you hear it, you’ll realize the best journeys don’t start with gear… they start with grit.
🎧 [Listen to Episode 504 Now]
Show Notes
Adventure Travel Trade Association
Favorite piece of gear:
Red puffy jacket from Patagonia’s used online marketplace
Favorite Book:
The Good Ancestor by Roman Krznaric
An Immense World by Ed Yong
Connect with Norie
