Kokoda Track

In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Cameron, a young man who trekked the Kokoda Track with his mum. They dive into Cameron's experiences, sharing stories of his mum's determination and his own growth. From the physical challenges of the trek to the emotional connections made along the way, this conversation explores what it means to push through adversity and find strength in community. With a mix of humor and heart, Cameron opens up about his journey and the lessons he's learned from his mum's example.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Village Life Along the Track: What Trekkers Often MisreadThe Kokoda Track is not an empty wilderness — it is a living corridor of villages, families, and communities. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores village life along the Kokoda Track and unpacks the common misunderstandings trekkers bring with them when passing through these communities. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, Glenn explains why simplicity does not equal ease, why hospitality is rooted in relationship rather than abundance, and how small actions from trekking groups can have a lasting impact — positive or negative. This episode is an essential listen for anyone who wants to walk Kokoda with respect, humility, and awareness. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What daily life in Kokoda Track villages actually looks like Why trekkers often misinterpret village culture How Wantok shapes community life The importance of respect, permission, and behaviour in villages Why responsible trekking operators matter Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Kokoda Changes Some People (and Not Others)Two people can walk the same Kokoda Track — and come away with very different experiences. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores why Kokoda has a profound, lasting impact on some people, while leaving others largely unchanged. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, this episode examines the role of mindset, ego, curiosity, attention, and reflection — and explains why hardship alone does not guarantee growth. This is a deeply reflective episode for anyone considering Kokoda, or anyone interested in why some challenges change us, while others simply pass us by. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why hardship doesn’t automatically create transformation The role of mindset and openness on Kokoda How ego and expectation shape experience Why attention matters more than toughness What Kokoda reveals when distractions are stripped away Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, culture, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Peta, a solo traveler who recently completed the challenging Kokoda Track. Peta shares her inspiring story of perseverance and determination, having trained for 12 months to prepare for the grueling 8-day trek. From overcoming physical challenges to mental toughness, Peta opens up about her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way. She also discusses the importance of group dynamics, cultural immersion, and the bond between the locals and trekkers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering tackling the Kokoda Track or looking for inspiration to push through their own challenges.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What Your Trekking Company Should Be Doing (But Many Don’t)Choosing a Kokoda trekking company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make — and one of the least understood. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explains what professional, responsible Kokoda operators should actually be doing behind the scenes, and why those standards often only become visible when things go wrong. Drawing on more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track, this episode covers preparation, leadership, medical readiness, group management, cultural responsibility, and ethics — offering listeners a framework to make informed decisions before committing to a trek. This is essential listening for anyone considering Kokoda and wanting to walk it safely, respectfully, and properly. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why not all Kokoda trekking companies operate at the same standard What proper preparation should look like before you arrive The role of leadership when fatigue and pressure set in Why medical readiness and group ratios matter How ethics and culture separate good operators from the rest Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wantok in Action: How Community Sustains Life on KokodaWantok is more than a word — it’s how life works along the Kokoda Track.In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores what Wantok looks like in action and how community, responsibility, and shared effort have sustained life in the Owen Stanley Range for generations.Drawing on on-Track experience and cultural insight, this episode explains how Wantok shows up in village life, porter relationships, and even in moments of hardship — and why understanding this system is essential for anyone walking Kokoda today. This episode offers a deeper appreciation of how community, not individual strength, has always been the foundation of survival on Kokoda. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What Wantok looks like in everyday village life How community responsibility works on Kokoda The role Wantok played during the Kokoda Campaign What trekkers are witnessing — even when they don’t realise it Why respecting Wantok matters for Kokoda’s future Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life in the Jungle: What the Soldiers Faced DailyThe Kokoda Campaign wasn’t just fought against an enemy force — it was fought against the jungle itself. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores what daily life was really like for Australian soldiers living and fighting in the Papua New Guinea jungle during World War II. Moving beyond famous battles and heroic moments, this episode examines the constant moisture, disease, hunger, sleep deprivation, and psychological strain that defined everyday existence on Kokoda — and why understanding this reality changes how we walk the Track today. This episode offers vital context for anyone seeking to understand the true cost of the campaign and the resilience required to endure it. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why the jungle was one of the greatest enemies on Kokoda How disease and illness affected the campaign The impact of hunger, fatigue, and lack of sleep Why morale and leadership mattered so much How understanding daily hardship deepens respect for the Track Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with meaning and respect. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feet, Fatigue & Friction: The Real Enemy on KokodaMost Kokoda treks don’t unravel because of fitness or motivation — they unravel because of feet.In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar breaks down why foot issues are the most common trek-ending problem on Kokoda, and why fatigue and friction quietly amplify small problems into major ones. Drawing on more than 90 crossings of the Track, this episode explains how moisture, steep descents, load, and fatigue impact foot health, why boot and sock choice matters more than brand names, and why early action is critical. This is essential listening for anyone preparing for Kokoda who wants to reduce unnecessary suffering and protect their ability to keep moving day after day. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why feet are the most vulnerable part of the Kokoda trek How fatigue changes movement and increases injury risk The real causes of blisters and skin breakdown Why boot fit and sock choice matter more than toughness How early foot care decisions affect the entire trek Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea culture, and practical trekking insights most people don’t talk about.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Terrain That Decided the WarOn the Kokoda Track, the terrain wasn’t just the setting — it was an enemy in its own right. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores how the Owen Stanley Range and the dense Papua New Guinea jungle shaped every aspect of the Kokoda Campaign. Drawing on military history and modern on-Track experience, Glenn explains why movement itself became the battle, how the terrain crippled supply lines and decision-making, and why endurance mattered more than technology in this environment. This episode offers powerful context for anyone walking Kokoda today, helping listeners understand just how much the land itself demanded of those who fought there — and why that same terrain still commands respect from modern trekkers. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why the Owen Stanley Range shaped the entire Kokoda Campaign How jungle terrain neutralised traditional military advantages Why movement and resupply were decisive challenges What modern trekkers can learn by walking the same ground How terrain still influences outcomes on Kokoda today Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and preparation. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Hard Is Kokoda… Really? (An Honest Answer)“How hard is Kokoda?” is one of the most common questions asked by people considering the Track — and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar gives an honest, experience-based answer drawn from more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track. Rather than focusing only on steep climbs and physical exertion, this episode explores the cumulative fatigue, mental strain, and decision-making challenges that truly define Kokoda’s difficulty. Glenn explains why comparison is one of the biggest traps trekkers fall into, why fitness alone isn’t enough, and what actually helps people finish strong. If you’re preparing for Kokoda — or wondering whether it’s something you can do — this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a grounded perspective on what the Track really demands. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Kokoda is hard in layers, not moments The difference between fitness and preparedness How comparison makes Kokoda harder than it needs to be Why mental fatigue plays such a big role What really determines who thrives on the Track Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.   This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the most common questions Glenn is asked is simple: “Are you leading my trek?” In this episode, Glenn explains why he doesn’t lead every Kokoda trek anymore — and why that should give you confidence, not concern. Adventure Professionals is no longer built around one person. It’s built around exceptional leaders, high standards, and a deep respect for the land, culture, people, and history of Papua New Guinea. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at: How Adventure Professionals selects and trains its trek leaders Why leadership, humility, and decision-making matter more than ego The two-year Adventure Leaders Mentorship and the standards expected How safety, culture, military history, and trekker experience are prioritised Why Kokoda doesn’t forgive ego — and neither do we Glenn also introduces the incredible leaders who carry the Adventure Professionals name on the track — people he trusts completely with his reputation, his team, and your experience. Meet the Leaders Mick Lay – Former soldier of 30+ years, leadership expert, and current instructor at the Royal Military College Duntroon Heidi Rumsby – A mum of three with a deep love for adventure, PNG, military history, and personal growth Bryan Waller – A dad of two passionate about physical and mental health and adventure as a mindset-building tool Caine – A dad of four focused on youth development, personal growth, and positive mental health through adventure Sami Dunk – The OG. A respected, passionate leader who brings joy, resilience, and perspective to every trek Mili Saul – PNG-born, raised in Milne Bay, and a vital cultural bridge ensuring respect for the land, people, and PNG team Why This Matters Whether you’re already booked or considering your first Kokoda trek, this episode is designed to reassure you that: You are led by people who care deeply Your safety and experience come first The culture, communities, and history of PNG are respected You are supported by a team — not just a name Key Takeaway You’re not booking a single leader. You’re stepping into a team, built on trust, training, accountability, and shared values. And that’s exactly how it should be. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There comes a point where you stop trying to explain yourself in fragments —and you decide to say it once, clearly. This episode is that moment. Whether you’re listening via The Kokoda Track Podcast or The Building Better Humans Project Podcast, this episode lays the foundation for everything that follows. Not a hype reel.Not motivation for motivation’s sake.But a clear line in the sand. In this episode, Glenn Azar shares the personal standards, beliefs, and lived experiences that underpin his work in adventure, leadership, youth development, and mentoring. From the lessons learned under load on the Kokoda Track to the realities of ownership, pressure, identity, and respect — this is a grounding episode designed to help listeners slow down, reflect, and recalibrate. You’ll hear why: Ownership beats excuses every time Pressure reveals character, not comfort Leadership always starts with self Adventure is a tool for growth, not a bucket-list item Strong humans build strong families, communities, and futures This episode is an invitation — not to follow blindly, but to take responsibility for your own growth and walk forward with intention. If this resonates, you’re in the right place.And if it challenges you — even better. That’s where the real work begins. Key Themes Personal standards over motivation Accountability and ownership Leadership through lived experience Respect for land, culture, and people Building strong individuals and communities Listen If You Are Feeling stuck or disconnected from your direction Craving clarity instead of noise Interested in leadership, personal growth, or adventure with purpose Ready to slow down and solve the problem in front of you Final Thought This isn’t a brand message.It’s a way of life. Welcome to the journey.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wantok: What It Really Means and Why It Matters on KokodaWantok is more than a word — it’s a way of life. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores the cultural heart of Papua New Guinea and explains why understanding Wantok is essential for anyone walking the Kokoda Track. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, Glenn shares stories from village life along the Track, reflects on how Wantok shaped the Kokoda Campaign during World War II, and explains why respect, humility, and community matter just as much as fitness on this journey. This episode challenges common assumptions about independence and success, and offers a powerful reminder that Kokoda is not just a trek — it is someone else’s home. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What Wantok really means in Papua New Guinea culture How village life along the Kokoda Track actually works The role Wantok played during the Kokoda Campaign Why respect and ethical trekking matter What modern trekkers can learn from PNG community values Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Isurava: Courage, Fear, and the Moment That Changed EverythingIsurava is more than a campsite on the Kokoda Track — it is a place where the spirit of the campaign was forged. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar takes listeners deep into the story of Isurava, where outnumbered and exhausted Australian soldiers were ordered to hold back the Japanese advance through the Owen Stanley Range in 1942.Blending military history with on-Track insight and personal reflection, this episode explores why Isurava still stops trekkers in their tracks, how courage and fear coexisted on this battlefield, and what this place continues to teach us about leadership, responsibility, and sacrifice. Whether you’re preparing to walk the Track or simply want to understand why Kokoda carries such emotional weight, this episode offers a powerful insight into one of its most important locations. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why the Battle of Isurava was a turning point in the Kokoda Campaign What courage looked like for young Australian soldiers under fire How the terrain and conditions shaped the battle Why Isurava still has a profound impact on modern trekkers The leadership lessons this place continues to teach Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Papua New Guinea culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Kokoda Track. This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What People Don’t Realise About Kokoda Until It’s Too LateMost people think they know what makes the Kokoda Track hard. They expect steep climbs, jungle heat, and physical exhaustion.But those who have actually walked Kokoda know the real challenge runs far deeper. In this opening episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar — founder and lead guide of Adventure Professionals with over 90 crossings of the Track — shares the realities of Kokoda that don’t show up in brochures or social media posts. Drawing on decades of experience leading people through the Owen Stanley Range, Glenn explores why Kokoda isn’t hard in the way people expect, how mental fatigue and cumulative stress quietly undo even the fittest trekkers, and why purpose and humility matter far more than ego on this Track. This episode is part storytelling, part education, and part personal reflection — offering listeners an honest insight into what Kokoda truly asks of those who choose to walk it. Whether you’re considering trekking Kokoda, already booked, or simply seeking to understand why this place changes people, this episode sets the foundation for everything that follows. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Kokoda’s difficulty is more about relentlessness than fitness The mental traps that catch people off guard on the Track How ego, expectation, and fatigue shape the Kokoda experience What over 90 crossings have revealed about who thrives on Kokoda — and why Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea’s culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons this Track has to offer.   This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we head into 2026, The Kokoda Track Podcast is evolving. Until now, this podcast has largely focused on interviews with people who have trekked the Kokoda Track and shared their personal experiences. Those stories still matter — and they’re not going anywhere — but it’s time to broaden the conversation. In this episode, Glenn Azar outlines a new direction for the podcast, one that brings deeper education, stronger context, and more responsibility to how Kokoda is talked about and understood. Drawing on his military background, more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track, and a deep personal connection to Papua New Guinea through his partner Mili, Glenn explains why there is a growing gap between what people are told about Kokoda and what they actually experience on the ground. From 2026 onwards, the podcast will focus on three core pillars: Trekking reality and preparation — honest conversations about fitness, boots, foot care, trekking poles, pacing, fatigue, and the small details that can make or break a trek Military history and meaning — not just dates and battles, but the human stories, terrain, leadership, and sacrifice that shaped the Kokoda Campaign Culture, custom, and respect — essential knowledge about Papua New Guinea, Wantok, village life, porters, ethics, and how to walk the Track as a guest, not a tourist This episode also outlines what listeners can expect going forward, including: A weekly episode as a minimum More solo, educational episodes Occasional interviews when they add depth and insight A stronger focus on caring for Kokoda well beyond the trekking experience This is not about selling Kokoda. It’s about honouring it — through preparation, understanding, and respect for the land, the history, and the people who call it home. If you’re considering Kokoda, preparing for a trek, or simply want to understand why this place matters so deeply, this episode sets the foundation for everything that follows. In This Episode, Glenn Covers: Why the podcast is evolving in 2026 The information most trekkers aren’t given — and why that matters The three pillars guiding the future of the show The importance of cultural respect and responsibility on Kokoda What listeners can expect from future episodes Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast as we move into a new chapter — one focused on depth, respect, and understanding Kokoda beyond the Track itself.This podcast is proudly brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Kokoda Track Podcast: Your Questions Answered Are you preparing for the adventure of a lifetime on the Kokoda Track? In this informative episode, host Glenn Azar addresses three critical questions from a future trekker that many potential hikers wonder about but rarely ask. From the practical aspects of food and meal timing on the track to managing illness in the jungle and surviving the infamous "Chiropractor Express" truck ride, Glenn shares insights from his impressive 98 crossings of the Kokoda Track. This episode offers valuable preparation tips that go beyond physical training, helping you prepare mentally and practically for this life-changing journey. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: **1:15** - Food on the track: Glenn explains the 24-hour ration pack system that allows trekkers to graze throughout the day rather than having set meal times- Packs include a variety of foods: rolled oats, canned goods, noodles, snacks, and beverages- The grazing approach helps those who can't exercise on a full stomach **4:30** - Managing illness on the track: What happens when trekkers get sick?- Stomach issues are less common than expected due to sealed food packages and hygiene practices- When illness occurs, the group continues moving but at a slower pace- Proper hydration and basic medications usually resolve issues without major delays **6:15** - The "Chiropractor Express": Surviving the truck ride from Popondetta to Kokoda- Despite the bumpy ride, motion sickness is rarely an issue due to open-air seating with good airflow- The scenery and interaction with locals provide a welcome distraction- Front seating options available for those particularly concerned about motion sickness **9:45** - Glenn's invitation for listeners to submit their own questions and his commitment to keeping the Kokoda spirit alive Ready to take on this incredible journey? Glenn's expert advice will help you prepare properly and approach your trek with confidence. Listen now and take the first step toward your Kokoda adventure.   TREK KOKODA WITH US KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM 1-ON-1 MENTORING SESSION WITH GLENNSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Kokoda Track Podcast dives into the experiences of those who have trekked this iconic trail in Papua New Guinea. In this episode, host Glenn interviews Caine, an adventure leader in training, about his perspectives from completing the track multiple times. Get an inside look at Caine's evolving journey on the Kokoda Track, from his first trek for mental health to leading groups and passing on the diggers' stories. Learn how the history and emotions woven into the land continue to draw him back. Timestamps:00:01:30 - Caine's overview of his Kokoda Track experiences 00:08:15 - Handling adversity and challenges on the track00:12:30 - Connecting with the military history 00:18:45 - Caine's advice for first time trekkers00:23:00 - The impact Caine hopes each trek has on people00:26:00 - Rapid fire questions Key Takeaways:- Training is crucial, but take the steep hills slowly - it's a mental challenge as much as physical- Connect with the local people and culture to get the most out of the experience- Everyone is capable of completing the track with the right mindset and preparation- The stories of the diggers must continue to be told to new generations The Kokoda Track is an emotional, perspective-shifting journey. Are you ready to take on the challenge and become part of the story? Tune in to hear Caine's experiences and wisdom for your own upcoming trek.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is different. It's not about Australian battalions, tactics or commanders. It's about the people who walked beside the diggers. The quiet heroes. The ones who didn't carry rifles, but carried lives. Today, we're talking about the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels. ADVENTURE WITH US KOKODA FIT TREK KOKODASee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we sit with Heidi for Part 2 of our ANZAC Leaders Reflections. 🌿 Connection to History and Culture What does the military history of Kokoda mean to you personally? How do you help others connect with the story of Kokoda while they’re trekking? What do you think trekkers should know before they come to understand Kokoda beyond the physical challenge? 🌍 Advice for Future Trekkers What advice would you give to someone preparing for their first Kokoda trek? What’s the biggest mistake you see trekkers make when they come to Kokoda? What’s one thing you think everyone should do or experience while on the track? 🔥 Leadership and Impact What does it mean to be a leader on Kokoda—not just logistically but emotionally and culturally? How has leading people through Kokoda shaped your own leadership style or philosophy? What impact do you hope each trek has on the people who join you? ❤️ The Deeper Why Why do you personally continue to walk Kokoda? How does Kokoda affect you long after each trek ends? What legacy do you want to leave through your work on the Kokoda Track?   TREK KOKODA WITH US KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.