• Introduction

In ADVMoto Podcast #8, host Nathan Slabaugh explores what it means to be a firestarter — someone who ignites creativity, adventure, and change in others. Guests Tom Morgan, founder of The Adventurists, and Amanda Zito (also known as @BlindThistle) join to discuss how they’ve sparked inspiration across the adventure world through events, art, and storytelling.

• Episode Summary

Tom Morgan, known for creating global adventures like the Mongol Rally and Monkey Run, talks about his mission to push people out of comfort zones and into chaos that fosters personal growth. Amanda Zito, an artist and solo rider, discusses how her online community and comics help people find courage through creativity. Together, they examine how bold ideas, humor, and art can ignite transformation in both individuals and communities.

• Starting the Spark: Tom explains why challenge, risk, and absurdity make life richer and more memorable.
• Creative Adventure: Amanda shares how turning solo rides into art helps others see beauty in imperfection.
• The Power of Play: How laughter and curiosity drive exploration more than competition ever could.
• Building Community: Both guests discuss empowering others to pursue unconventional paths in travel and art.
• Fire That Spreads: True adventurers don’t just ride — they inspire others to chase their own stories.

• Highlighted Quotes

“Adventure starts when things go wrong — that’s where the magic happens.” — Tom Morgan

“Art and riding are both about courage — starting before you’re ready.” — Amanda Zito

“Adventure and creativity feed the same flame.” — Nathan Slabaugh

• Support & Follow-Up

Learn more about The Adventurists and their global challenges at TheAdventurists.com. Follow Amanda Zito at @BlindThistle and YouTube.com/@AsTheMagpieFlies. For more inspiring interviews and episodes, visit AdventureMotorcycle.com.

• About the ADVMoto Podcast

The ADVMoto Podcast is an original adventure and dual-sport show hosted by Nathan Slabaugh, featuring riders, creators, and innovators who inspire the next generation of explorers.