In 'Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,' Greg McKeown argues that by applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, individuals can regain control of their time and energy. The book is divided into sections such as Explore, Eliminate, and Execute, providing practical advice on distinguishing the vital few from the trivial many and eliminating non-essential activities. McKeown emphasizes the importance of clarity of focus, the ability to say 'no,' and living 'by design, not by default.' This approach helps readers achieve more by doing less and making the highest possible contribution in their personal and professional lives.
High Tide: A Surf Odyssey is a captivating photo book by Chris Burkard that takes readers on a visual journey to some of the world's most remote and breathtaking surf destinations. The book showcases Burkard's passion for adventure and his ability to capture the beauty of both the natural world and the sport of surfing.
In 'The Boy Who Spoke to the Earth', a young boy asks the Earth where he can find happiness. The Earth responds by sending him on a journey through diverse landscapes, teaching him that true happiness is not found in distant places but in appreciating the beauty around him. The book is illustrated by David McClellan and written by Chris Burkard.
At Glacier's End takes readers on a journey down Iceland's glacial rivers, from their headwaters to the sea. The book combines Chris Burkard's breathtaking aerial photography with Matt McDonald's narrative, offering a cultural and environmental perspective on these iconic rivers. It highlights the challenges faced by these rivers due to industrial activities and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them.
Distant Shores is a collection of photographs by Chris Burkard, showcasing his decade-long quest to capture the beauty of surfing in remote and wild locations across the world. The book features stunning images of surfers and landscapes from diverse places like Alaska, Chile, Iceland, India, Japan, and Norway.
The California Surf Project is a fully illustrated travel diary of Chris Burkard and Eric Soderquist's adventure along California's coastline. They traveled in a Volkswagen bus from the Oregon border to the Tijuana Sloughs, capturing their experiences in over 200 photographs, soulful text, and a thirty-minute DVD. The book chronicles their journey of surfing perfect waves, sharing campfires with strangers, and maintaining their bus with duct tape and prayers.
A treat for any and all with a bent for adventure and creative expression, today's guest is one of my very favorite visionaries of images still and moving.
Meet Chris Burkard.
A true artist in many forms, Chris is a photographer, filmmaker, world explorer, accomplished endurance athlete (last year he set the record for fastest man to circumnavigate Iceland by bike), dirtbag surfer extraordinaire, author, creative director, father, and man of faith.
But first and foremost, Chris is a storyteller --best known for his photojournalistic, humanizing approach to the farthest expanses of the Earth and capturing stories that inspire humans to consider our relationship with nature, while promoting the preservation of wild places everywhere.
Chances are you follow Chris on Instagram — stacked with breathtaking landscapes and tales of adventure, his feed is a unique portal into other worlds that magnetizes 3.6 million people daily.
Well established as a leading creative and man of global influence by the ripe age of 32 (now 34), Chris’ visionary perspective has earned him opportunities to work on global, prominent campaigns with Fortune 500 clients and brands like Apple, The North Face, Patagonia, Microsoft, Burton, Capitol Records, Quiksilver, and REI to name but a few.
He’s spoken on the main TED stage, designed product lines, and published a growing collection of gorgeous books including, California Surf Project, At Glacier’s End, Boy Who Spoke To The Earth (children’s book), Distance Shores, and and High Tide: A Surf Odyssey.
Chris' lates offering is Unnar -- a short documentary that tells the story of Chirs’ friend Ellii, an Icelandic photographer, surfer, and kayaker whose perspective changed after surviving a near death experience. Premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival, Unnar is now freely viewable on Chris’ YouTube page. Don't miss it.
Today Chris shares his story.
I’ve been a huge fan and admirer of Chris for ages. This conversation was long in the making — and does not disappoint.
It’s a conversation about being present in the moment. Making art out of suffering. Taking big risks. And what's behind his love affair with Iceland.
It’s also a glimpse into the creative mind of a true artist, laced with potent life lessons that will leave you thinking more broadly about your own path.
But most importantly, it is about crusading against the mundane — and living a wanderlust lifestyle.
The visually inclined can watch our exchange on YouTube. And as always, the podcast streams wild and free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Chris is a very special human. We need more like him. I greatly appreciate his openness and perspective. And my hope is that this exchange will strengthen your reverence for the outdoors -- and inspire your own impulse for adventure.
Peace + Plants,
Rich
The Rich Roll Podcast 
