• Introduction

In ADVMoto Live! #2, host Carl Parker welcomes veteran overland author Sam Manicom and global adventurers Tim and Marisa Notier for an inspiring discussion about storytelling, travel, and life on the road. Sam shares practical writing tips for riders who want to turn their journeys into books or blogs, while Tim and Marisa provide an update from Uganda — where they’ve been living the ultimate two-up adventure during global lockdowns. From writing routines to wildlife encounters, this episode dives deep into the art and attitude of the traveling rider.

• Episode Summary

What makes great adventure writing? According to Sam Manicom — author of Into Africa, Under Asian Skies, and Distant Suns — it starts with curiosity, consistency, and keeping a daily journal. Sam discusses how to capture authentic moments, balance storytelling with honesty, and write from a place of emotion rather than perfection. Meanwhile, Tim and Marisa Notier (of NotiersFrontiers.com) join live from Uganda to talk about their eight-year, around-the-world journey and what it’s like to be “stuck on honeymoon” in Africa. Together, the guests explore what travel teaches about resilience, cultural awareness, and connection.

• Writing from Experience: Sam explains why keeping a journal is the foundation of all great travel stories and how sensory details bring writing to life.
• Editing and Publishing: From grammar anxiety to self-editing, Sam emphasizes that raw emotion beats perfect punctuation every time.
• On the Road in Africa: Tim and Marisa describe being stranded in Uganda, riding among giraffes, and learning to adapt to the continent’s rhythm.
• Travel Instincts: Both couples share how intuition — or “spidey sense” — keeps travelers safe and open to authentic encounters.
• Respect and Connection: Across Africa, small gestures like a smile or handshake break barriers and build trust faster than any language.
• Favorite Destinations: From the deserts of Namibia to the mountains of Peru and the warmth of Colombia, each guest reflects on life-changing places and people.

Whether you dream of writing your first adventure blog or circling the globe, this episode reminds riders that every story starts with one simple question: “Why not?”

• Highlighted Quotes

“Write every day — even if it’s just 20 keywords. Those notes will bring your memories back to life.” — Sam Manicom

“Adventure isn’t about the bike — it’s about the mindset.” — Carl Parker

“If we can do it, anyone can. The hardest part is deciding to go.” — Tim and Marisa Notier

“Respect everyone you meet. You never know their story.” — Sam Manicom

• Support & Follow-Up

Explore more of Sam Manicom’s work and travel books at Sam-Manicom.com. Follow Tim and Marisa Notier on their ongoing world tour via NotiersFrontiers.com and on Instagram at @NotiersFrontiers. For more episodes and adventure riding content, visit AdventureMotorcycle.com.

• About ADVMoto Live!

ADVMoto Live! is an original adventure and dual-sport podcast for riders who live and breathe the long way around. Hosted by Carl Parker, the show features explorers, builders, and dreamers whose stories inspire and define the adventure motorcycling community.