Growing up in Lake Tahoe, Joel had the wilderness (quite literally) in his backyard, which taught him to cherish and care for nature. In 2008, he thru hiked solo the 215-mile-long John Muir Trail, which stretches from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney.
Transformed by the experience, Joel gave up his 9-to-5 corporate job, sold his home and the bulk of his belongings, and squeezed what remained into a backpack. A few years later, after having his passport stamped in 22 countries, he found his true north on Maui. Joel is clearly in his element when he’s leading a hike. But the best part? “We start the day as total strangers, but end with a round of high-fives and a group hug.”
