John sees his expeditions as mental and physical endeavors that require a singularity of focus and complete immersion in the wilderness that is extremely rare in today’s world. Goal oriented since childhood, he embraces all of the planning, training, toil, and adaptations that come with major expeditions. Whether it is navigating through a junkyard maze of sea ice rubble, skiing into the alpenglow of the midnight sun, or the camaraderie that comes with a team safely pitching a tent in a howling blizzard, he lives for moments in which effort and reward seamlessly flow together. Optimism – the unwavering belief in success through hard work and perseverance – and humility – the pragmatic ability to adapt and learn – are the core values he applies to his work as an explorer, educator, and speaker.