How Outdoor Risk And Storytelling Build A Healthier Mind, with Rick Glaze

Send us Fan Mail

Your mind can feel crowded until something real makes it go quiet. Put yourself on a wild river, in open water, or even alone with a headlamp in a cave, and suddenly the usual noise drops out. That’s where today’s conversation starts: what adventure does for mental health, why challenge can be calming, and how a good story can give your mind room to breathe.

We are joined by adventure novelist Rick Glaze, a writer whose books are rooted in the rivers, oceans, and wild places he’s actually explored. We dig into what first pulled him toward kayaking, sailing, and even shipwreck diving, plus the honest truth about spontaneity. Total freedom sounds romantic, but Rick makes the case for a better balance: enough structure to stay safe and moving, with enough novelty to feel fully awake. Along the way, we talk fear, uncertainty, and what happens inside you when you try something demanding as a beginner.

Then we shift to creativity and the writing process. Rick shares why writing does something experience alone can’t: it turns adrenaline into meaning, and it lets characters take on a life of their own. We also touch on his pandemic-era book Ralph and Murray, a funny, comforting story narrated by a dog and a cat, and why that kind of play matters when life gets heavy. If you’ve been craving more adventure, more creativity, or simply a healthier relationship with discomfort, this one will leave you with practical ways to start small.

Subscribe for more conversations about mental health and real-life tools, share this with a friend who needs a spark, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

Connect With the Guest :

Website: https://rickglaze.com (book descriptions, audiobooks, and a free reader club)

Books also available on Amazon

Our Protector Development
Offer: $100 OFF ENROLLMENT | Code: ENROLL100

Friending, Inc
Offer: 15% off our coffee as stated above | Code: Podcast10 Find friends in real-life in a verified

Focal Point Coaching of Oak Park
Offer: First session FREE | Code: Mention "HealthyMind" in your email

Convergence
Offer: 50% off | TRANSFORM50

Avita Yoga
Free Avita Yoga class and exclusive interview with Jeff: Know Your Constitution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Want to Be a Guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? 👉  DM me on PodMatch 

💬 Want to come on the show? Be a Guest 

🌐 Explore the full network  | 📨 Newsletter | 👥 LinkedIn Community

This isn't self-help. It's self-honesty.

💼 Sponsor Our Show | 🎬 Check Our Services

📌 Disclaimer This episode is for educational and informational purposes only. Guest views are personal and do not represent the host or Healthy Mind by Avik™. The Network does not verify or endorse guest statements. Nothing here is medical, legal, financial, or professional advice, please consult a qualified professional. Engage critically. Third-party content referenced under fair use. Guests are responsible for their own statements. Concerns? Contact us | Full disclaimer.

By listening, you accept this disclaimer in full.