Issue 02 | Face the Current

Issue 02

CULTURE

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MUSIC

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TRAVEL & LEISURE

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SPORT & FITNESS

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December 2016

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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BUSINESS

Mountain Madness Moving Beyond Storied Past of Legendary Owners Scott Fischer and Christine Boskoff

An Adventure Into Humanity's Origins With George Bullard

Mark Landvik The Fourth Phase

Meeting John Mayer Comedian Kelsey Cook

Saving Bees From Global Extinction Researcher Paul Stamets, D.Sc. Hon.

...inspiring positive change in the world

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EDITORIAL

editorial

FtC

fAce the current issue 02 · December 2016

Let’s Get Social... facethecurrent @facethecurrent

In the Beginning Face the Current was created with the intention to inspire positive change in the world and enhance lives by encouraging one another to relentlessly discover, explore, question and learn from current and emerging information and perspectives. Driven by a deeprooted love of learning, creative minds and a great appreciation for connection with other individuals who are passionate about what they do, Face the Current has quickly developed into a growing team and global community of incredible people who believe in living life to the fullest and discovering their true potential.

“I find it inspiring to connect with others who are following their flow, pursuing and exploring their passions. Their energy is vibrant & contagious and there is often a lot of incredible things to learn from their life experience and the perspectives they have gained.”

Sasha Frate, Founder and Co-Editor in-Chief Sasha Frate editor in chief

sashafrate sasha@facethecurrent.com

@facethecurrent www.facethecurrent.com For advertisement and sponsor inquiries, or to request our media kit: info@facethecurrent.com For writer and collaborator inquiries please contact: Founder & Co-Editor in Chief: sasha@facethecurrent.com Co-Editor in Chief: naia@facethecurrent.com For marketing inquiries contact: Director of Marketing: alberto@facethecurrent.com All Rights Reserved DISCLAIMER The information provided on this magazine is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider.

COVER IMAGE by Scott Serfas/Red Bull Content Pool, Featuring Eric Jackson in Tordrillo Mountains from The Fourth Phase

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FTC OVERVIEW Face the Current Magazine is a life, thought, goal and experience - enhancing resource of stimulating inspiration and empowerment.

We provide access to expert advice, stories, experiences and knowledge from the world’s leading experts on Health & Wellbeing, Travel & Leisure, Sports & Fitness, Culture & the Arts and Business.

We are developing an enriching community for perspective seekers who desire a fit, healthy and positive lifestyle.

FtC is packed with inspiring & motivating features on outstanding people, places and products. It’s a springboard to attaining greater focus, fulfilment & potential – connecting people to what matters!

FtC Magazine links individuals and businesses alike with pro-active networks, associations, platforms, information, opportunities and ideas; to facilitate and encourage development and success from personal goals to business tactics. FtC makes multi-faceted learning and development accessible, engaging and beneficial.

We provide a valuable platform for the exponential interest and movement towards a healthier lifestyle. We provide truth, exploration, solutions and higher perspectives for positive change seekers who desire a fulfilling and optimized lifestyle. We champion those who are making positive change and seek sponsorship for upcoming athletes, life-changing projects etc.

FtC - Fuel for an inspired life. Discover your potential.

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issue 02 · December 2016

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fAce the current Sasha Frate

Founder and Co-Editor in Chief Founded by Sasha Frate, Face the Current was created as a platform for sharing knowledge, expertise, and inspiration from individuals around the globe who are pursuing and living their passions.

Sasha has studied a broad range of academic subjects, including Holistic Health, Exercise Science, Herbal Studies, Linguistics, Cross-cultural Perspectives, and Science & Society. She has traveled the globe competing and coaching professionally in a variety of sports, including soccer, boxing, and personal training, and is an avid outdoors adventurer who aims to balance her time connecting with nature. Sasha received her MA in Liberal Arts, BA in Linguistics, and fluently speaks English, Spanish, and Russian.

Naia Reid

Co-Editor in Chief was formerly the Editor of BGlife Magazine, Marbella; a popular, high-end, glossy, monthly lifestyle publication. She is a prolific creative writer, having spent many years working as a Copywriter for a Google-Affiliated website design company, before writing, reporting and photographing for Andalucia’s largest English newspaper conglomerate Euro Weekly News and she now brings her creative talent and passion to FtC Magazine. When not sleuthing around for inspiring international stories, networks and characters or adding to her own eclectic collection of published articles, she balances life with the tranquility of her home in the Mediterranean mountains, training Andalusian horses and creative projects in photography, graphic art and sculpture.

Alberto Montado

Director of Marketing

Sema Garay

Creative Director Sema is the graphic designer behind the development of the image and magazine of Face the Current. He has developed a multitude of projects, including his previous job leading the Creative Department of BG Life Magazine, where he worked alongside Naia Reid. Sema is passionate about all kinds of artistic expressions, especially music and architecture. sema@facethecurrent.com

is an award winning designer and business marketing specialist from Cadiz. He has worked with international giants such as Vodafone, Warner Bros and Mattel, headed many national and international advertising campaigns, built significant national brand identities and even excelled in clothes design and interior decoration.

Jamie Young Web Design

Jamie is a Manchester based designer and musician with a passion for creative arts and social collaboration. Entirely self taught he has recently designed two award-winning websites.

letter from the editor Growing up in the Pacific Northwest in the U.S., nothing says Winter to me more than snowcovered mountains. The mountains have also been a place of reprieve and I’d even skip out on a college class on occasion to drive out to the mountains alone to pass a couple hours exploring a new place.

Perhaps I’d read too much Thoreau and Jon Krakaeur. “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined,” says Thoreau. As a college kid, it seemed that the only way to hear inward was to step away from the noise of society telling you how and what you should dream, how and what your life should be like to be happy. The mountains had all the silence and answers, one of the biggest messages being ‘EXPLORE and be curious about life.’ Having adventures seemed an obvious consequence that was anything but mundane. Krakauer “thrilled in the fresh perspective that came from tipping the ordinary plane of existence on end,” and just like that, a seed had been planted.

In modern times, it is rare to find time and place to be alone and more and more people have even grown uncomfortable with it, having developed a dependency on some sense of constant “connection” with people whether physically or virtually through tech. The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate our love, this connection with one another, and send gratitude to those who are meaningful in our lives. It can also be a wonderful time to find that reprieve, whether through meditation, or connecting with nature.

December is a month packed full of potential for greatness in experiencing some of life’s most incredible gems: adventure, exploration, love, gratitude and connection. In this wintry edition we invite you into the ‘Madness of Mountains’ featuring special interviews with Mark Landvik of “The Fourth Phase” and “The Art of Flight,” and owner of Mountain Madness guiding company Mark Gunlogson, who carries on the legacy of former owners Scott Fischer and Christine Boskoff. Their stories and many more are sure to ignite your inner fire and inspire you to live your life to the fullest.

On behalf of FtC, I wish you a December full of wonder, peace, love and joy… and maybe a bit of madness in the mix as well!

Sasha Frate

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Founder & Co-Editor in Chief “But there are men for whom the unattainable has a special attraction. Usually they are not experts: their ambitions and fantasies are strong enough to brush aside the doubts, which more cautious men might have. Determination and faith are their strongest weapons. At best such men are regarded as eccentric; at worst, mad. . . .Everest” Jon Krakauer, Into Thin Air www.facethecurrent.com

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December s

CREW We are a growing team of Up-standers

David Asarnow

Dr. James Bentz

is the founder of Business Oxygen, and How To Monetize business marketing and monetization agencies. He is an authority in monetizing your business.

David’s clients have added millions of dollars to their bottom line after implementing his business monetization strategies. David has trained thousands of business professionals worldwide, including those for clients like Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes Business Breakthroughs International. www.BusinessOxygen.net www.HowToMonetize.net

D.PSc. is a Chiropractor, Speaker, Health Coach & Educator, Trainer & Leading Practitioner in Neurological Integration System (NIS), which is a method of restoring communication between the brain and body based on the principle that the brain monitors every cell in the body. www.fidalgoislandhealthcenter.com

whose intention is to create positive change in the world, through networking, connecting, supporting and developing at an individual and global community level. We are passionate about building our

Dr. Jeremy Princi is an expert in health and wellness and registered Chiropractor. Jeremy has undertaken post-graduate studies in Sports Chiropractic, International Sports Chiropractic and Holistic Lifestyle Coaching (CHEK Institute).

Jeremy has an inspired passion for organic and biodynamic farming. His vision is to re-connect food, farming, fitness and healing into one holistic model of health, which supports, honors, and respects Mother Earth. http://www.holisticlifestyler.com Instagram: @holistic_lifestyler

George Bullard

is a 4x world record-breaking explorer, endurance athlete and motivational speaker. George has been guiding expeditions in the Amazon rainforest, the Indian subcontinent, the Greenland Icecap, Svalbard, cycling across Europe, driving through NW Africa amongst others. Now George completes his own expeditions as well as running a company IGO Adventures. georgebullard.co.uk Instagram: @georgebullardexplorer

network of experts and industry leaders to deliver cutting edge information to our global community.

This month’s Team and Crew are based in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Australia.

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Regan Nally holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Maryland College Park. She is currently working for a nutraceutical company as Director of Chemical Research and Biochemical Analysis. A lifelong focus on human health has spurred her interest in understanding the fundamentals of chemistry as well as the importance of trekking the outdoors and taking the time to exercise creativity.

David Ryan

David is a celebrity trainer in Los Angeles, California and creator of LIFTSTRONG Max Intensity Interval Training. You can get your own personalized HIIT program at www.

DavidRyanFitness.com Instagram: @DavidRyanFitness

Michael Malone

Jesse Weinberg

is an American Comedian, Actor, Director, & Podcaster. His popular comedy podcast “Punched Up” explores the stories behind the comedians you love. Michael writes on “Great Comedians. Great Stories.

Told Differently.” www.malonecomedy.com Social: @malonecomedy

is Founder of Global Yodel Media Group, a content, influencer and social marketing agency, Global Yodel a digital community that explores the globe from a local perspective and Kindness & Co dedicated to starting a movement of kindness.

You can visit Jesse at: www.globalyodelmediagroup.com T: @stuffJWsays

Sabrina Hutchinson

is CEO of Defiant Public Relations, an entertainment PR firm headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. With over 15 years of PR, marketing and advertising experience, Hutchinson has worked closely with celebrity talent, creatives and top corporate clients and has extensive experience in entertainment and digital marketing, delivering smart communication strategies, passion, creativity and integrity to the clients she serves. www.DefiantPR.com T: @DefiantPR

Jerry Angelini MS, is the Education Director and part of the formulation team for Host Defense Organic Mushrooms. In these roles, he has brought information to professionals as well as the general public in the United States and Canada regarding the traditional use as well as the most recent research associated with mushrooms and herbs. He has also been instrumental in formulating a supplement line that combines mushrooms and herbs for the mass market to support people’s wellbeing. www.hostdefense.com

Oliver Jarvis is the Online Editor and In-house writer for Scuba Diver Magazines.

Out of the office, Oliver enjoys travelling Asia; writing, photographing and, after both producing and directing his own documentary, now enjoys videoing his experiences.

Once a lifestyle writer for The Gentleman’s Journal, and presenter for Radio Brunel, Oliver decided to change his ‘game’ and cover topics that actually matter. oliverwjarvis.com Instagram: @oliverwjarvis

Clair Marie

who also goes by “BASEgirl” is a BASE jumper, Skydiver, Mountain bike racer, Rock climber, Motivational Speaker, Keynote, and Model. She is a passionate vegan and a world traveler. She has made it her life goal to inspire others and help them accomplish or find their dreams and passions. After defying the odds and becoming one of the worlds youngest BASE jumpers at 16 years old she realized how important it is to always follow your dreams! And now she helps others find theirs. https://basegirl.com

Beachgrooves Radio BeachGrooves is spain’s #1 Live Streaming Deep House DJ Station, reaching the globe from la Costa del Sol. www.beachgrooves.com

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CONTENT issue 02 · december 2016

COVER stories

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MOUNTAIN MADNESS

SAVING BEES FROM GLOBAL Mark Landvik: 64 108 “The Fourth Phase” EXTINCTION Researcher Paul Stamets,D.Sc. Hon.

Moving Beyond Storied Past of Legendary Owners Scott Fischer and Christine Boskoff

MEETING JOHN 24 MAYER Comedian Kelsey Cook AN ADVENTURE INTO HUMANITY’S ORIGINS with George Bullard 74

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DECEMBER CONTENT re

ltu

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sic

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l ve e a tr isur e &l s rt s o sp nes it &f & th g l n a he lbei l we

s bu

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P.R.E. World Championships SICAB

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Meeting Mayer

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Unusual Christmas Traditions from Around the World

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Word Play

34 Zealyn 38

Blockbuster Film Composer & Musician Paul Henning

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Kali Uchis

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Mountain Madness

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6 Reasons Why You Should Care About the Ocean

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Cuba Reflections: Oscar Pacussich

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Mark Landvik: “The Fourth Phase”

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An Adventure into Humanity’s Origins

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When Passion Just Isn’t Enough

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Push & Pull for Faster Workouts and Faster Progress

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The Ways of the Wild, Encapsulated

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The Life-Changing Potential of Fermented Foods

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The True Path to Health and Longevity. Debunking the Myths. Part 2

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How to Save Bees From Worldwide Extinction

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The Economy Has Shifted

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The Power Of Kindness

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5 Sustainable Businesses Making Global Impact

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FtC fAce the current

culture 12 20 24

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p.r.e world championship. sicab meeting mayer unusual christmas traditions around the world word play

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FtC culture

P.R.E. World Championships

SICAB

By Naia Reid

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Seville, Spain is a majestic city, abounding with culture and beauty and the most befitting of venues for the most important date in the diary of international owners of P.R.E. (Pura Raza Espanola- Pure Spanish Breed) horses around the globe, The P.R.E. World Championships, which take place annually at the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos.

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The SICAB P.R.E. World Championships is a hugely anticipated event, which sees the gathering of thousands of PRE horse breeders, lovers, trainers, riders, exhibition organisers, world class judges and merchants of every kind of horse paraphernalia, traditional clothing and typical food and beverage products that can be imagined. For horse lovers, this is an unmissable opportunity to admire one of the most beautiful, multi-disciplinary, noble and intelligent horse breeds in the world.

The 26th edition of SICAB, during the 15th – 20th November, was host to 1069 of the best examples of the breed, owned by 342 different breeders, representing 60 countries, including Costa Rica, Switzerland, Mexico, France, the Czech Republic, Great Britain, Holland, Belgium,

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Australia, the Netherlands and the U.S.A. His Royal Highness King Filipe is Honorary President to the event and royalty and aristocracy from around the world often attend, as well as more than 200,000 spectators who packed the exhibition spaces to capacity daily.

The bustling crowd of spectators is always well populated with gentlemen dressed in tilted Gorras (tweed caps) and sombreros (traditional Spanish broad rimmed riding hat), quilted chalecos (waistcoats), emblazoned country wear and stout leather boots and the ladies dress with great pride and flair in out-to-impress style. It’s a popular family event, with plenty activities and shows especially for children included in the itinerary.

Visitor’s appetites were immediately whetted with an impressive exhibition of authentic film set props on display at the main entrance, which were used in blockbusters like Ben Hur, Laurence of Arabia and Lord of the Rings. Elaborate oriental bridles and ancient saddles that have endured scorching deserts, an authentic stagecoach that looked like it had ridden in straight off the plains of the wild west and battle chariots which almost carried the scent of danger and thrill on their heavily adorned warriorcarrying flanks lined the entrance hall.

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The main stands area was heavily populated by Spain’s most wellknown names in the equestrian world, offering the finest of traditional wares.

Visitors could sample complimentary sweet sherry from Jerez, the finest bellota jamons, artisan cheeses and craft beers and browse endless choices of equestrian themed products, tools and riding equipment.

The stabling outside the stadium is always open to the public and visitors could wander around and admire the stunning mares and foals, stud stallions and sport horses at close range.

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As well as the title of World Champion, there are many other esteemed positions to be attained and points, cups, trophies, rosettes and sashes to be won. During the year, P.R.E. owners compete in national and international shows and competitions to gather enough points to become qualified for this final and most prestigious Championships. Traditional disciplines, such as Alta Escuela (High School Dressage), Doma Vaquera (Spanish cowboy), Amazona (side saddle) Funcionalidad (functionality), Movimiento (movement), Cobras

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(several mares shown together in-hand) Trabajo de Campo (Obstacle course against the clock) and Enganches (carriage driving) were given demonstration and competitive timetables during the week, with a spectacular show in the main indoor arena each evening to round the day’s activities off.

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FtC

Meeting MAYER culture

by Michael Malone

John Mayer’s body may be a wonderland, but meeting him certainly was not…

Let me back up. First, meet Kelsey Cook.

Kelsey is the daughter of an International Yo-yo Champion and a Professional Foosball player. Yes, those are real things.

She’s also an up-and-coming comedian and YouTube make-up guru, based in the beautiful city of Los Angeles. You’ve probably seen Kelsey doing stand-up on one of the numerous television shows like FOX TV’s Laughs, Uproarious on FUSE, or Live at Gotham. Right now, she is the opening act for veteran comedian Jim Norton across the US on his “Mouthful of Shame” tour.

While on tour with Norton, Kelsey found herself at a swanky Hollywood after-party packed with celebrities and comedians. You name it, they were there. Louie Anderson, Bob Saget, Jeff Ross, Gilbert Godfrey, Melissa Rivers — a veritable “who’s who” of the comedy roasting community.

Kelsey’s no stranger to schmoozing with marquee names. But while making the rounds, she saw someone who had the power to stop her in her tracks. Squeezed into a corner booth surrounded by professionally funny people was the man, the myth, the legend, and Kelsey’s ultimate fantasy, John Mayer.

Implying that Kelsey is a “fan” of

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John Mayer’s work would be the understatement of the year. It would be like saying that the Cookie Monster has a bit of a sweet tooth. Kelsey has been hooked on Mayer’s mellow drama lyrics and boyish good looks since his debut album “Room for Squares.”

“John Mayer is one of those artists who every album they put out, it like correlated to a break up in your life. Y’ know, you listen to the lyrics like - ‘This is about me, ME and TIM!!’ - Tears streaming down your face.”

Bob Saget took it upon himself to introduce her, but her first impression was less than stunning. She lost all ability to speak.

“Oh F#*k,” she muttered out loud in front of the star-studded table. In front of her idol. By now, we have all seen the manquian challenge, right? So picture a room full of celebrities doing that, parallel to you meeting one of your idols and all

time crushes. Yeah, brutal.

On top of all that embarrassment, Kelsey did not plan to meet John Mayer that night. There was no warning given. Just, WAM! John Mayer!

“I was wearing like, mom jeans.

I was greasy and I had been traveling all day.

I was wearing, like ALL denim. I looked like Kate Gosselin.”

The night went on, drinks were had. Stories were shared and Kelsey returned to her hotel room later, where

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her brain then began to head into overdrive. She couldn’t shake the thought of what just happened. Then she realized that all of those after party guests were not only staying at the same hotel, but they were all staying on the same floor as well. That’s when her she went into full on fan mode. She started playing out fantasies from the comfort of her own bed.

“What if I put a dress on and go back downstairs? I could fix my make up and go down for a drink. I wonder if he’s still awake? Maybe I’ll roam the halls for a bit until he comes up to his room…”

The next morning Kelsey and Jim finish breakfast but Kelsey didn’t want to leave just yet. She was determined to get another shot at meeting Mayer. Jim understands. He himself is a sucker for meeting idols. So they waited around…

Kelsey frantically watching the entrance to the restaurant ...and waited a little longer… Kelsey pacing past the restrooms and buffet lines, just in case...and a little longer, until finally Jim suggests they check

the outside on the patio area.

They headed out to the crowded patio, glazed over the room for an open seat.

Defeated, they came back inside. The entire patio trip maybe lasted two minutes, tops. When they came back inside, Jim ran into a friend from the night before and he tells him that they are on high alert for Mayer. Without missing a beat, his friends inform them that they just missed him.

His whole crew had literally just rushed out and got on his tour bus. Mayer had officially left the building.

Kelsey fell to pieces.

She slowly slid her sunglasses down over her eyes as tears began to stream down her face. She was heartbroken. Jim doesn’t hesitate, he began to comfort her, but the comfort he was providing gave Kelsey the feeling of permission to really let loose instead of sobering up.

“Out of nowhere I have tears coming up that were buried so deep, feelings were like coming up from unsolved issues with my parent’s divorce. I was pouring snot and tears and everything else into Jim’s shoulder. It’s a miracle that we are still friends.”

Kelsey has still never got another shot at meeting Mayer… and maybe she never will.

Life doesn’t owe any of us anything. It doesn’t matter how much you want something to happen, it doesn’t guarantee that it will. However, I felt bad for Kelsey. I wanted to help. So I asked her to write a missed connection for Mr. Mayer in hopes that maybe he would read it and give her a second shot at introducing herself. The way she always dreamed it would happen.

Less denim, and more conversation. Enjoy.

Dear Brown Eyes Big D***, We met briefly. I was dressed like Kate Gosselin, and I just want you to know… I think your body is a wonderland.

Forever Yours, Soccer Mom

ymore info: Find his new podcast at puncheduppodcast.com.

You can download Michael Malone’s latest album “Thirty One” on iTunes, and keep up to date on his tour schedule and upcoming films at his website www.malonecomedy.com www.facethecurrent.com

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FtC culture

Unusual Christmas Traditions from around the World

Austria-

The Austrians have a very unusual and effective means of teaching respect and good behavior to their children. They are told that if they dare to be naughty, Krampus, a terrifying demon who accompanies St. Nicholas, will throw them in a sack and drag them to hell…and that´s if they are lucky. If Perchta, Krampus’ sidekick gets them, she will rip them open and stuff their bellies with straw.

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USA- With its origins in San Francisco, this fun tradition has Canada- Canada Post honours

all post that is sent to Santa’s address during the festive season and makes sure all the letters that children send to St. Nick are replied to.

Guatemala-

“La Quema del Diablo” celebration in La Antigua Guatemala sees hundreds of people coming out onto the streets to burn effigies of the devil, which are places on top of the sweepings of the floors of the family home.

It is believed to be effective in geting rid of all negativity, bad vibes and evil spirits before the religious celebrations begin on the 8th of December.the event.

now, 21 years later, become a massive event in many major cities around the world. The Running of the Santas is basically a giant pub-crawl, where hundreds and sometimes thousands of “santas” gather to take part. The only requirement to participate is to (at least) wear a santa hat and refer to all other participants as “santa” during the event.

Sweden- Every year since 1966,

the authorities in Gavle install a huge straw goat to herald the holiday season. A secondary unofficial tradition developed, where vandals try to burn it down each year. The goat has only survived approximately 10 out of nearly 50 years so far!

And only 4 people have ever been caught and prosecuted.

Wales- During Christmas festivities, the Mari Lwyd, or “Grey

Mare” comes out to snap at and scare passers by. Puppeteers cover themselves with a sheet and carry the decorated horse’s skull on a pole, visiting houses and singing requests to be let in. The inhabitants try to make excuses but if the Grey Mare is persistent, they allow her and her helpers in and must serve them ale and food.

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Spain- The nativity scene is set up in most Spanish homes during Christmas, but in Catalonia, it is tradition to hide a small figurine of a person squatting to poop! Holy sh*t indeed!! The “Caganer” or defecator, is supposed to bring good luck, symbolizing fertilization of the ground and reminding us that all are equal. In more recent years, many famous people have been depicted. ping stop swee n e m o w hide all Norwegian as eve and tm is r h C d s it that s aroun olklore ha F t. h their floor g si f t and ms out o t that nigh u o e m o their broo c s of und guilty and witche fo e b to t n evil spirits wa ht. folk do not t for the nig r o sp the women n a tr em with providing th

Norway-

Portugal-

Remembering the dead is a very important part of Portugese Christmas tradition. An early meal called “consoada” is prepared. Places are set at the table for family members who have passed away and a full meal served to their empty space. This was meant to bring prosperity for the New Year.

Catalonia-

The Caga Tio / Tio de Nadal is a hollowed out log with a painted face, that is kept warm with a blanket until Christmas. It is filled with candy, fruit, nuts, garlic and sardines. On Christmas day, poor Caga Tio is beaten with sticks, sometimes while being sung to, to make him poop out the presents and then he is fed to the fire.

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Japan-

Cuba-

Every year on Christmas Eve, the city of Remedios comes alive with “Parrandas”, a religious carnival that in the 18th century, when a priest sent altar boys into the street banging on pots and pans to keep people awake for midnight mass. Now it is a huge street festival, complete with colourful floats and all night dancing and partying in the streets.

An extremely su ccessful marketi campaign back ng in 1974 convin ced most Japanese that a bucket of KFC was the perfect tradit ional Christm as dinner.

Somehow it ac tually caught on and now buckets often ha ve to be ordere d months in advance.

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South Africa-

Another strange-but-true delicacy we will be steering clear of this Christmas, is a plate of deep fried emperor moth caterpillars, often served for Christmas dinner in South Africa.

Venezuela- On

Christmas morning, many streets are closed to allow thousands of people to get to early morning mass… on roller skates.

Children often tie a string to their foot and hang it out the window so skaters will pull on the strings as they pass, so the children will wake up to enjoy the spectacle.

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Ukraine-

according to lege nd, a woman was too po or to decorate her home for Chr istmas. A spider in her house saw this and spun a beautiful web ov er her tree on Christmas Eve. To honour and celebrate this, pe ople decorate their trees with an artificial spider and web instead of the usual baubles and tinsel.

Greenland-

Considered a delicacy and only eaten at Christmas or for very special occasions, Kiviak is a very common Christmas lunch which is prepared by stuffing a seal skin full of intact birds called Auk and burying the whole thing to let it ferment for 7mths. The other popular dish is Mattak - raw whale skin served with blubber.

Great Britain-

Each member of the family must stir the Christmas pudding clockwise and make a wish before it is cooked.

Slovakia-

The most senior male member of the house hold throws trad itional lokse puddin g at the ceiling a fter the main m eal. It is believed th at the more that c an be made stick to the ceiling, the better the coming year’s harvest will be.

Oaxaca Mexico - Initially started

by a town mayor who wanted to attract natives to the shops of the town in 1897, the “night of the radishes” is an impressive display of nativity scenes and other events and characters in Mexican folklore, made entirely from specially grown radishes.

Some of these roots reach up to 3kg and 50cm long. The coveted prize of over €1000 attracts many artists from all over the country and the tradition has become a 3 day festival.

Czech Republic

Single women throw a shoe over their shoulder at the door of their house on Christmas morning. If the shoe lands pointing back towards the door, they believe it is a sure sign that they will be married within a year. www.facethecurrent.com

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FtC culture

Conversation

DECEMBER

Enhancers

December’s Word Play

Words to Enhance Vocabulary & Enrich Life Mellifluous: sweet sounding Abraid: to awaken or arouse Ensorcell: to enchant or fascinate someone woods; one who loves Nemophilist: a haunter of theand solitude the forest and its beauty

Pantegrulian: enormous

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Let’s try it out!

The nemophilist felt a pantegrulian sense of ensorcellment as she abraided under the mellifluous canopy of nature singing to the

How to play te word, Send your favoriph se to expression, or ra

rrent.com u c e h t e c fa @ fo in with

”entry to y a l P d r o W “ ur yo r fo for a chance ion. Be sure to in the Subject line month’s edit be featured in nerxtname or @john/janedoe include you

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FtC fAce the current

MUSIC 34 zealyn 38 Blockbuster Film Composer & Musician

Paul Henning 42 kali uchis

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FtC music

ZEALYN With Sabrina Manhas Hutchinson

I had the opportunity to see Zealyn perform in Los Angeles earlier this summer. I was taken by her musical talent and in speaking with her after her performance, I was impressed by beautiful, graceful energy. So it was indeed a pleasure to reconnect again and talk with her about music and her debut EP, ‘Limbic System’.

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SMH: Tell me a bit about your new album, ‘Limbic System’.

Z: Everything about it - the writing process, the producer I worked with, everything about the creation of the album - was so organic and special. Nothing felt forced. It was beautiful how the whole EP came together. I’m so proud of it lyrically. Ever since it released in June I’ve just been playing as many shows as I can, meeting other artists and trying to build a team. It’s been a great year – full of a lot of self-discovery.

SMH: How did you come to work with your producer, Aaron Marsh?

Z: Aaron Marsh is the lead singer of Copeland, so I’ve been so blown away by his work for about 10 years now, and it’s been a dream of mine to work with him ever since. When we first met, I was at one of his concerts and unexpectedly ran into him before the show! When I say that the two of us working together happened organically, that’s exactly what I mean. I asked him that night if he would be interested in producing my next project, and two months later we were in the studio.

SMH: Was he already familiar with your work when you met?

Z: No. I just tweeted him and he later said he had checked out my Twitter and social media, noticed my following, and that I was a singer.

Shortly after meeting we had a long phone call and finalized all the logistics.

SMH: You’ve been touring a lot the past couple of months. How has that been?

Z: My favorite thing about being a singer/ songwriter is touring. The past couple of months I’ve done the East coast, West Coast, and a little bit of Canada. There have been some really great opportunities for shows. If I had to choose to do only one thing in 2017, it would be touring and performing live.

SMH: What do you love about it?

Z: To me, the best part of touring is being in front of an audience that is unfamiliar with my

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music and only having 30 minutes to win them over. It feels really quite vulnerable, but I believe there is something to be said about artists who give it everything they have, night after night. The second best part of touring is meeting people. Whether that be fans, or other musicians.

inspire me, such as Exes, Violet Skies, Fickle Friends, etc. It’s a really cool feeling to be motivated by your friends.

Z: I’ve been privileged to become friends with some really cool up and coming artists that really

Z: Yes, I was raised singing worship music.

Growing up that way the focus was never on the singer, but on God. Because of that upbringing, I can now get out of my head when singing and allow myself to not worry so much about how I may sound or what others think. The more I sing, the more I allow myself to get lost in the music. I think that’s

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SMH: Talk with me about your musical influences. Worship music was a part of that musical upbringing?

something the audience can really notice, too.

As an artist, you have to have confidence. I look at an artist like MØ - she dances crazily but you see how powerful and confident she is and you can’t help but love her, she’s contagious! You grow more confident the more you perform, and I hope to do the same.

SMH: What are you doing right now – and what’s next for you?

Z: Right now I’m working on things for early 2017. I’m always thinking of what’s next.

I have so many things to plan right now– remixes, new songs, videos, live videos, so much that I can’t wait to get out there.

Zealyn created a playlist for Face the Current that has all of her favorite songs at the moment

Zealyn- Limbic System EP

ymore info: http://zealyn.co Twitter: @zealyn

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FtC music

Blockbuster Film Composer & Musician

By Sabrina Manhas Hutchinson Composer and film musician Paul Henning has spent his life studying and performing music. With this month’s release of his debut album, ‘BREAKING THROUGH’, Paul had an opportunity to share music that was intensely personal to him. His album features piano solos performed by Paul himself and recorded live with a 48-piece studio orchestra. This blend of modern sensibility with a nostalgic, Americana sound tells the story of moments spent on the road between his home area of Pullman, Washington and his home in Los Angeles, where he regularly performs on some of the biggest films in Hollywood.

This month we sat down with Paul to talk about his history – and his music.

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“

I became very serious and practiced for four hours a day. By my Sophomore year, I was playing Rachmaninoff concertos, pieces I never dreamed I could play

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Paul Henning

SMH:Tell me about your upbringing.

Where did you grow up and when did you begin playing music?.

need to play quite as much. I was spending time learning the violin repertoire and still playing flute.

PH: I grew up in Eastern Washington State, in a rural, small town environment.

My parents were separated when I was young and I spent time during the week with my mom in Pullman, a college town, and spent weekends with my dad in a much more rural area. There were almost no services there, although the Henning family farm had been there since the 1880’s. My grandmother had a Conn Organ in her house. She traveled the world in her older age and brought back souvenirs and collections and had a love of music. I played the organ, and my grandmother noticed that I was picking things up on my own and thought I should have piano lessons. I started at age eight and practiced on my own without being told.

I later began playing violin, flute, and piccolo. In college I was in the wind ensemble, symphony orchestra and marching band.

SMH: So it shifted naturally?

PH: Yes, it shifted heavily in terms of my focus, and I also needed to concentrate on the course work I was required to do. At that time I was also learning and studying German, Danish, Japanese and Russian.

I audited everything except German – I took all the tests and did all the work but didn’t get credit. The instructors wanted me to enroll but I was already overloaded on classes. I was just so passionate

SMH: Will you talk amore about the dual pursuits of piano and violin and how that evolved?

PH: Piano was a nearly lifelong pursuit. When I got into college, I needed to get more serious about my playing, and I did. I became very serious and practiced for four hours a day. By my Sophomore year, I was playing Rachmaninoff concertos, pieces I never dreamed I could play. I made enormous strides, but also began to be burned out a bit. Playing wind instruments allowed me to express myself in a new way that renewed my energy and interest.

SMH: How did you balance your time between playing piano and violin?

PH: I began devoting more time to violin than playing piano. I was a composition major, so piano was required but I didn’t

about languages. I also worked 30 hours a week – three 9-hour shifts. I worked as a manager at McDonald’s for seven years through high school and college. They were very good to me and even gave me some scholarships.

SMH:That’s incredible, Paul. After graduating, how did you make the move to Los Angeles and into film music?

PH: I graduated from WSU with a degree in composition, and had begun to be interested in film music. I particularly enjoyed composers like Alan Menken (‘Aladdin’, ‘Pocahontas’, ‘Beauty and the

Beast’) and legendary composer John Williams. I continued to play in WSU’s wind ensemble despite not technically being a student. I saw an ad about a film music program in North Carolina at the North Carolina School of the Arts. I looked online to see if there were programs closer to the (Los Angeles) film industry and found USC’s program. I applied and was accepted to the program.

It was a bit overwhelming and daunting, but I did it.

SMH: Let’s talk about your career as a film and TV musician. How did that begin?

PH: After USC, I began reaching out to LA orchestrators, as I was interested in orchestration work. Some of them took an interest in working with me. Patrick Russ started giving me a lot of work.

He’d worked with Elmer Bernstein and on the original ‘Ghostbusters’.

He told me that anybody who’d worked at McDonald’s for seven years to put themselves through school deserved a shot!

When he asked me to perform on one of his scores, I didn’t feel like I was ready. Pat gave me some really great advice.

He said, “You’ll never feel like you’re ready until you just go do it”. So, I played on my first film, which was ‘Fat Albert’.

SMH: What else led you to the place you are at now?

PH: I became Concertmaster (leader of the first violin section of an orchestra) of the Golden State Pops Orchestra.

We performed a lot of film music. Film composers began to request me on their scores, and ultimately, I started getting called by film and TV music contractors.

That took a long time but it’s definitely paid off.

SMH: Let’s talk about your new album, ‘Breaking Through’. What www.facethecurrent.com

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“

Patrick Russ started giving me a lot of work. He’d worked with Elmer Bernstein and on the original ‘Ghostbusters’. He told me that anybody who’d worked at McDonald’s for seven years to put themselves through school deserved a shot!

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inspired you to write it and when did you first start?

PH: The idea came from another composer named Ray Lynch who writes primarily electronic music. I liked that Ray had put out a collection of his own music. People liked it and bought it. It was appealing to have my own music that I could create and write.

SMH: What was the process like writing the album?

PH: It took a year to write. I was also working as an orchestral proofreader, orchestrator and film musician, so it took time to get the album written.

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SMH:You performed the piano parts and you hired live players for the orchestral part.Tell me about that.

PH: After I finished writing the album and making demos of what I wanted it to sound like, it took another year to find the funding for the recording sessions with all the players. My friend Mark Robertson was very influential and helped me a great deal on this project. He was also concertmaster for the sessions. It was during that year that my dad passed.

SMH:You mentioned to me previously that this album was dedicated to your dad. Did you know the entire time you were

writing it that you were writing it for him?

PH: No, he passed in 2009, so he never heard it completed. But he encouraged me the entire time I was working on it. I listened to him and did quite a few of the things he suggested. He was not educated in music but he enjoyed it, and he was a great support to me. When I was in school at WSU in Pullman, my dad would get a list of concerts at WSU and would drive 40 miles from his farm to see almost every concert I performed. Whenever I’d look out into the audience, he’d be sitting there.

When I was deciding whether to attend USC, my dad also made the decision for me, in that one day a check showed up for the cost of the tuition deposit. That

“

I wrote music that is joyous, uplifting and I hope, inspiring. It’s influenced by my trips up and down the West Coast, the scenery I’ve seen and my love for history and nature. There’s a touch of nostalgia for my love of American history and the vast expanses of the West. Driving through the emptiness of it all, clearing my mind at times, that’s what the music represents.

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was when I packed up and moved to Los Angeles. He would also fly to L.A. once a year when I moved here. He’d time his visits around my Golden State Pops concerts.

SMH: What would you like people to know about ‘Breaking Through’?

PH: I wrote music that is joyous, uplifting and I hope, inspiring. It’s influenced by my trips up and down the West Coast, the scenery I’ve seen and my love for history and nature. There’s a touch of nostalgia for my love of American history and the vast expanses of the West. Driving through the emptiness of it all, clearing my mind at times, that’s what the music represents.

SMH: What else are you working on right now?

PH: Some classified projects I can’t talk about (laughs). But in the past year I’ve spent time working on the orchestrations and score preparation for ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’, which was a wonderful project to be involved with. I also performed on the score to ‘Moana’ that is coming out at Thanksgiving, and I played on Barbara Streisand’s last album. I also performed on the scores to the last ‘X-Men’ and ‘Ice Age’ movies, as well as the animated film ‘Storks’.

SMH: I think your dad would be awfully proud, Paul.

PH: I know he would be proud. He was truly my number one fan, and called me every week to check in. He would encourage me when times were challenging. He sent me hundreds of letters through the years. I wish he could have been there for the ‘Breaking Through’ recording sessions and album release. He was a quiet and humble man in person, but he had so much love to give. I miss him terribly.

ymore info: PaulHenning.com Facebook.com/PaulHenningMusic Twitter.com/Paul_Henning_ www.facethecurrent.com

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FtC music

By Gerard Aparicio & Darren Winter A BeachGrooves Radio Feature

Columbian-American signer Kali Uchis has previously lent her voice to Tyler, the Creator, and now the Odd Future rapper has returned the favor by being one of a few notable producers with the fruits of this collaboration heard on Uchis’ EP Por Vida.

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Tyler produced the woozy electronic pop tracks “Call Me” and “Speed.” There’s also production from Kaytranada and BADBADNOTGOOD (who teamed up on the buoyant, bilingual “Rush”), plus Alex Epton (a.k.a.

XXXChange), Bunx, and Caleb Stone.

For Uchis, LA has become both her home away from home and a potent muse. Kali’s 2013 debut, Drunken Babble, dives deep into the low-rider subculture of 1960s California, then samples and references the sweet soul that soundtracked it- Bren- ton Wood, Mary Wells,The Moments, The Whispers—all looped under pensive, lucid lyrics about love and loss. It’s mature for a girl born in ’94. “Modern day music is just drawing people away from their core—soul music makes me feel something,” she says of the dramatic strings and subtle, chipmunk-pitched vocals that back her.

“A lot of people were getting million dollar deals from music I felt was trash, because their videos were going viral. I wanted to put out music that had soul, because that’s what was missing.”

Still, Kali’s aggressively aware of image. She took up piano and saxophone after emigrating at 7 with her family to Alexandria, Virginia, but band practice eventually lost out to hours spent in the computer lab tinkering with

video editing software.

She credits this as “the most important thing that high school taught me,” and it makes sense.

Her videos are pastel-toned montages of palm trees and hot cars—see the dreamscape “Table for Two” or the trippy vignettes of “Por Vida (Down For Life).” And her heavy-handed chonga look has gained her as many ogling eyes as ears—a Tumblr search of her name produces thousands of grainy photos and jittery GIF loops of her likeness. Regarding her loud aesthetics—part FKA Twigs, part Kreayshawn—she explains that it’s just the artist in her.

“I’m from the same generation of people that grab from the same inspiration and styles as me. I’m constantly progressing. My style is changing every day.”

For now, the West Coast has embraced Kali with open arms.

She’s clocked in records with Snoop Dogg and studio sessions with Tyler, the Creator. But there’s more to Kali than cosigns, a cute face and cool clothes. Consider her cover of Jeanette’s 1976 hit “Por Que Te Vas,” sung in quick-tongued Spanish, which she recorded as an open letter to her aunt. “I love that song my aunt used to always play it. I wanted her to understand my music, and that I could actually sing.

She didn’t even believe it was me.

‘Por Que Te Vas’ means ‘Why do you leave?’ It’s a sad song, but it sounds so sweet you wouldn’t even really know it’s sad.” Sweet and sad—the description fits Kali well.

BeachGrooves’ TOP 3 RUSH

Things pick up rhythmically with this one, which is no surprise given that it was produced by Kaytranada & BADBADNOTGOOD. Instantly memorable, especially thanks to the chorus, you’ll have this track stuck in your head for days on end.

SPEED

The most electronic track on Por Vida, “Speed” features a waltz beat and lush harmonies to get lost in.That said, the beat packs plenty of bounce as well– another Tyler, the Creator production.

LONER

A wistful close to the album, with trip-hop references and a delivery somewhere between a mid-Atlantic accent and a vague patois.This is the anthem for anyone who felt like they didn’t fit in in high school.

ymore info: www.kaliuchis.com Instagram: @kaliuchis

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Mountain Madness 6 Reasons Why You Should Care About the Ocean reflections of cuba

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Mountain Madness

By Sasha Frate

Interview with MM Owner, Mark Gunlogson

Making the Challenge

Founded by legendary high altitude climber, Scott Fischer who lost his life on Everest in the renowned story depicted by Jon Krakauer in “Into Thin Air” and the film “Everest,” Mountain Madness is a company built on inspirational legacy. Christine Boskoff followed in Fischer’s path, expanding the company as one of the leading women in a sport dominated by males. After her tragic climbing death, Boskoff ’s and Fischer’s dream to guide others to lead adventurous lives through exploration of the world’s wonders lived on. Current owner, Mark Gunlogson has brought his lifelong passion to Mountain Madness, continuing the legend and providing a growing array of expeditions for the climber, the trekker, and the adventurous spirit looking for challenge and unforgettable experience. Connecting with untouched, virgin nature, discovering immense landscapes that few eyes get to appreciate, becoming one with the elements, and connecting deeply with like- minded people along the adventure can be deeply nourishing for the soul.

Photo: Roby Hutchinson

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How is it running a company that has had two previous owners die who were well-known, even legendary climbers?

That’s a question I get a lot and when I give a moment’s thought to it, I just think how crazy it seems as far as a company history goes, but also just how enduring the story is. Scott’s passing, now twenty years ago, continues to be in the minds of those that knew him, but also of course for a wider audience because of the incredible story “Into Thin Air”, and more recently the movie “Everest.”

As for Christine Boskoff, Scott’s successor, she died in an avalanche in a remote region in Tibet about ten years after Scott.

Her story, though not as widely known as Into Thin Air, was not lacking drama. For more than a month would be rescuers scoured remote corners of Tibet as winter closed in - there was no itinerary to follow, so she and her partner’s whereabouts were unknown. It was almost a year later that some Tibetan and Chinese mountaineers and I recovered her body beneath the obscure Genyen Peak. But,

Christine also left an amazing legacy, especially for women climbers - she was considered the world’s premier female high altitude climber of the time, with six ascents of 8,000 meter peaks; and notably a female business owner in a male dominated sport and industry. So, it’s been some big shoes for me to fill.

But, brand recognition means everything and I think however sad these tragedies were, they put Mountain Madness on the map on a global scale. All along we’ve been a company that is driven by passion for mountains and I think that this message has been carried on for the more than 30 years we’ve been in business and not just a side note, it drives the company. I happen to love all things mountain too, so in many ways, to get back to the question, it’s been relatively easy to carry on the torch – I’m just hoping third time’s a charm.

mountains became part of me early on.

And once I learned to climb, which was at the youthful age of 15, I quickly made the connection of being able to make a living doing what instantly became a passion for me. What could be better than making a living doing what you love!

What you do doesn’t really fit into the typical 9-5 paradigm…how did you get into guiding adventures and why?

I started hiking and skiing when I was 7, so

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What is Mountain Madness about and what do you offer?

It’s hard to distill this question down to a simple answer, but we are about sharing a passion for climbing, trekking and exploring the mountains of the world and meeting amazing people along the way. Our adventures are as simple as a day of rock climbing for beginners, to climbing Mount Everest and everything in between. We’re all about creating new adventures, outside of the normal formulaic itineraries which other companies offer- I’m talking first ascent climbs in Nepal, multi-sport trips that include paragliding in Himalayas and rafting; it’s not all about climbing.

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Many hiking and climbing expeditions are often associated with more of a summer season.

Your calendar list of expeditions is equally long YEAR ROUND. What are some of the popular winter season trips?

Well, you have most of the whole bottom half of the planet at your disposal as it is their summer season. So, think Mexico, Ecuador, Argentina and in late winter-early spring, Nepal comes into fine shape. And of course Kilimanjaro and safari is one of the best imaginable escapes between December-March.

Mountain Madness expeditions include the Seven Summits- the

continents’ highest peaks. Tell us more! (Do people typically sign up for the entire schedule of expeditions to each summit?)

This is one of the ultimate achievements for sure for climbers- less than 500 people have completed this. Logistically, financially and the amount of time it takes, makes this more of a lifetime sort of goal. It’s been done in less than a year, but most people take five years or more- it’s no small order!

But, what an adventure from the exotic, like hanging out with Dani tribesmen for the Carstensz Pyramid, to being on one of the most remote places on the planet when climbing Vinson; Antarctica’s highest peak. And then of course there is Everest.

But, as we tell our customers, it’s not

necessarily the exclusive domain of a few highly skilled and intrepid adventurers – if someone is determined, there is a logical progression of climbs, step-by-step, that make this accomplishment doable for even the novice climber coming to join us.

What is the minimum level of fitness that people need to have to go on your trips?

Good question, the answer of which of course depends on the trip. But, the mindset we try to get climbers in for the bigger trips, is that on summit day, they will likely be dehydrated, dealing with the cumulative fatigue of being on an expedition for sometimes a couple of weeks before even getting in position for

the summit day and that they will need the endurance for a 12-15 hour day on the go the entire time.

But, it’s a bit of a different story for the entry level climbs and treks; trips that make the whole idea of just getting out on an adventure more accessible. For these folks, a regular exercise routine supplemented with some extra activities like biking or hiking will work, although on these trips there may also be multiple days of activity in a row, so training for endurance will always be beneficial.

What is the most unusual item you have witnessed someone carrying with them on a trip?

Oh wow, there has been some crazy things we’ve seen; from a 20-pound sleep apnea machine, ashes of loved ones, a knife a Vietnam vet carries everywhere, a ukulele, adult diapers, to something not necessarily carried, but a porn star girlfriend!

Do you observe any sort of change in people from when they first show up to join an expedition to when they have completed it?

Oh yeah, could be they start the adventure off with some fear and anxiety, but after some self-discovery and pushing personal boundaries, there is the personal growth part that becomes the reward, which is often greater than reaching a

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summit. Of course some of our seasoned guests come to just partake in a challenge and have fun and they already know what they are getting into.

Challenging adventures often create a special space for meaningful bonds. Do many of the friendships that develop during trips become long-term?

For sure, and for both our guests and guides too – I have several clients that have become lifelong friends. There is a well-known idea that the rope that connects climbers creates a powerful bond of trust and companionship like no other sport can; throw in overcoming some psychical and mental challenges and some good times, and yes, lifelong friendships come pretty easily.

Photo: Stephany Boettner

Photo: Seth Hobby

Photo: Per Ostberg

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Everest summit. Photo: Willie Benegas

What types of courses and education do you offer?

For someone first getting into climbing we have a multitude of mountaineering and rock climbing courses to get things rolling.

These courses take place in the U.S. and abroad in some incredible places. For our guests who come back year after year and progress into more advanced climbs, there is always something to learn, often on the climb itself. Personally, I think when I stop learning something on climbs, whether a new technical skill or even something about myself, that is when I’m done with this endeavor; but I don’t see that happening anytime soon!

How do custom trips work?

Custom trips work well for people on many different levels; could be specific dates are required, someone wants to slow things down and go at their own pace, or maybe they want it to just be with family or friends; but whatever people dream up or need we can usually accommodate.

Why did you create a women’s program and why is it unique?

When I first started climbing some forty years ago there was maybe 1 female climber for every 10 men, so it was clearly a male-dominated sport. Things have changed for sure with many women now getting out, but there is still an underlying element leftover, so a women’s program addresses that part for sure with a more supportive environment and less intimidation factor – I have two daughters, so I get girl power and love it! By offering a

women’s program, we’re able to make the sport a bit more inclusive without some of the barriers that have existed in the past.

Adventure often equates to occasional injury. How does your team prepare for this?

An interesting thing about some of our expeditions is that the actual number of days where the most risk is involved is pretty minimal – on an expedition you may find yourself walking into your objective for a week, acclimatizing once at base camp, and then only actually on the mountain for a couple of days. A perfect example is a 15-day expedition in Ecuador, where there are actually only three days of climbing. So, yes, injury occurs, but our guides are well-trained to both manage risk and deal with any injuries should they occur. But, contrary to popular perception, the amount of injuries on these trips is really pretty minimal.

Being in such beautiful, untouched nature is extremely beneficial for human wellbeing/state of mind and such an immersive experience can have a profound effect on people, especially those from cities. Can you recall any particularly profound moments that clients have experienced while out in the wild with you?

These moments happen on almost every trip really. For some, the time away from it all, unplugged, is the most powerful. I’ve had people cry tears of joy upon reaching a summit. I’ve seen the peace that sitting quietly looking out at the mountains

instills in individuals and know that these powerful places provide a certain humbled serenity. As much as the physical challenge appeals, it’s just as much this sort of spiritual connection that these adventures provide, that brings guests back for more every year.

Mountain Madness not only impacts the lives of people who go on your expeditions, but you’ve taken it a step further to leave a mark on the places and people who call your destinations “home.”

Can you share a bit about Mountain Madness’ social and environmental projects?

Mountain Madness has a long history of reaching out to help the people who live in the places we visit and it can often enrich our guests experience beyond measure. Our passion for this began in the 1990’s with Scott Fischer led fundraising trips with the relief organization CARE. More recently we’ve been involved with schools and an orphanage in Nepal and Tanzania, setting up computer labs in local schools, and a clothing drive for porters in Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains. Sometimes it’s as simple as taking a basketball hoop to a school to more complex projects like helping raise tens of thousands of dollars towards building a school in the Himalayas that aims to not only provide a better education, but also promote cultural preservation. Our experience with these projects offers exciting opportunities for our guests that are interested in combining adventure with philanthropy – it’s really a slam dunk for everybody involved!

ymore info: Website: www.mountainmadness.com Facebook: Mountain-Madness Twitter: @mountainmad

Photo: Vladimir Stoliarov www.facethecurrent.com

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6 Reasons Why You Should

Care About the Ocean

By Oliver Jarvis, Travel Writer & Photographer 52

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Marine life are highly intelligent While non-human intelligence is a hotly contested and controversial topic, we know that cetaceans are some of the world’s smartest in terms of intelligence we humans can recognize. The sperm whale, thought to be the smartest animal in the world, is self aware, a top problem solver, able to learn new languages and to communicate in different dialects… And it doesn’t just end there, the fantastically weird octopus can demonstrate complex communication, can navigate mazes, unscrew jars and use tools to hunt and build homes.

Step aside the common perception of the goldfish, life in the ocean is far from braindead. Expansive coral communities work alongside, and for, one another in a metropolis almost as complex as our modern cities. Once we realize and accept how intelligent marine life is, hopefully we will feel less inclined to wipe it all out.

When NASA launched Apollo 8 – the first manned spacecraft to leave the Earth’s orbit, reach the moon and return – they became the first humans to ever witness “Earthrise”. Floating in the perpetual darkness of space over 300,000 kilometers away from civilization, they gazed back to take a look at our Earth; only half visible, a blue marble slowly spinning. Our blue planet.

It is this image of Earth that makes you realize how large, incredibly beautiful and important the world’s oceans are. Separating us from the dry dusty world of Mars, and the hydrogen and helium clouds of Jupiter. It created our life, and now we are unconsciously destroying it.There are many reasons why we as a human race should care about the ocean, and here are just a few: www.facethecurrent.com

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Largest ecosystem in the world Covering two-thirds of the Earth’s surface, and full of fragile life, the oceans hold the undisputed title of housing the largest ecosystems in the world.

From complex coral cities with communities of fish in the shallows, to the great plains of the deep, open ocean where herds of whales roam like elephants in the Savanna. Nowhere on earth is quite like the open ocean, and with a deep unknown down there – there is a chance that the largest ecosystem could be fuller of life than we could possibly imagine.

Fish are dying at an alarming rate From washed up whales on tourist-filled beaches, to floating dead fish in coastal waters close to industrial farming and oil plants. The ocean is a world constantly under threat. The YouTube video that went viral of a turtle squealing in agony as a plastic McDonald’s straw was being pulled from its nose, or the images of the stork drowning in oil after the Deepwater Horizon Spill, should be a reminder of how we need to change the way we think about and treat the ocean.

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Incredible discoveries still to be made What lies at the dark depths of the ocean is a question marine scientists have been asking since Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh first descended, almost all the way down, to the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Since then, thousands of deep sea discoveries have wowed the minds of oceanographers worldwide, from the giant squid to the “immortal” jellyfish.

Who knows what else may show up on submersible radars and photographs from the deep in the years to come.

One of the only places where you can feel truly disconnected

Divers live for the moment the chaotic topside world becomes drowned out by a blanket of water and the sound of deep-breaths. It’s the moment when they cut-ties with stress at work, missed phone calls and Internet bills, trading it all for 45 minutes alone with this unsurpassed nirvana. Through it all you become closer to what lies below the waves, able to see the most incredible sights that few ever witness. It’s these moments of intimacy with marine life, unique to each observer, that make the underwater world such a hypnotic and zen-like thrill.

Without the ocean we simply cannot survive

Not only do small coastal and island settlements rely on the vast treasures that the ocean brings – food and tourism – the ocean is a key factor in our own survival. Around half of the oxygen we breathe is present in the atmosphere due to the tiny phytoplankton which lie in the oceans, and scientists have tipped the big blue as a promising source of new medicines to contact cancer, pain and bacterial disease. It’s a strong reason for why we should care to protect our oceans.

It is hard for those who have never experienced the world below the waves to fully understand what we are on the verge of losing. From around the globe, there are incredible people fighting to sustain their parts of the ocean. But in this evergrowing human world, their efforts become numbed by the industrial trawlers dragging up underwater ecosystems, oil drills shattering coral communities and huge tankers upsetting migration patterns and hunting methods of some of the largest creatures on our planet.

If everyone could just see it – this beautiful unexplainable world – then perhaps we all would look to protect it.

ymore info: Website: oliverwjarvis.com Instagram: @oliverwjarvis www.facethecurrent.com

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f o S N O I T C E L REF

A B U C

OSCAR PACUSSICH

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OSCAR PACUSSICH is a talented young photographer from Lima, Peru, with an eye for capturing the essence of the environments he shoots in a subtle and intimate way; often using water to create his unique perspectives. Puddles on the ground become his reflective canvas for capturing authentic and almost voyeuristic scenes of the everyday life and movement of the subject scene.

Having studied communication, documentary making and photography at the University of Lima, he travelled extensively to develop his work and style, participating in international meetings such as the Foundry Photojournalism Workshop and the Photography Colloquium of Cuba’s Photo Library. He has worked alongside renowned international photographers, contributing to Presidential campaign coverage and as well as currently working currently for a multimedia think-tank called Pakai Productions, has worked in studio and aerial photography, developing a broader vision of documenting and artistic photography is his own defined style.

Oscar offers in this series, a reflection on Cuba.

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ymore info: Facebook- Oscar.pacussich Flickr- oscarpacussich Twitter- @OscarPacussich 60

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sports & FITNESS 64 74 80 84

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Mark Landvik: The Fourth Phase An Adventure into Humanity’s Origins When Passion Just Isn’t Enough Push & Pull for Faster Workouts and Faster Progress

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Mark Landvik “The Fourth Phase”

By Brad Andrew The face of the modern professional athlete often bares no semblance to that of generations past. No longer are these athletes held within the confines of a sporting arena. We now live in a world where anything is possible and people are able to make a living as a professional athlete partaking in activities that were once considered merely hobbies for hobbyists.

At first glance you would never picture Mark Landvik as a professional athlete. He’s short, slow, and can’t jump for shit. He looks like your average hobbyist. Once Mark straps a snowboard to his feet it becomes clearly evident why he is a professional athlete.

His actions become otherworldly as his movements unfold with the precision of a Swiss timepiece. Mark is a professional snowboarder and one of the best in the world. As a professional snowboarder, Mark spends his winters traveling the globe in search of the best snow on the planet. Over the course of the past four winters Mark partook in a monumental cinematic project with Travis Rice and a small crew of the world’s best snowboarders. Together they followed the flow of the oceans currents that drive their lifestyle, traveling thousands of miles to the ends of the earth and enduring the harshest of environments just so they could better understand winter, and ride lots of powder while at it. The epic four-year voyage was documented by the Red Bull Media House and released to the masses this fall as the feature film, “The Fourth Phase.”

This is Mark Landvik and these are his words on the Fourth Phase and life as a professional snowboarder.

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Photo: Brad Andrew www.facethecurrent.com 65

Brad Andrew:Tell me about your 1st ever day on a snowboard Mark: First day ever on a snowboard was actually at night. I borrowed my snowboard- traded skis for a snowboard, because I skied. I started skiing when I was 3 and this was about when I was 12. We were riding at night, and I decided to try his board, so we switched it up. So that was the first time, and that was kinda it for me. So I knew next season I was getting a board.

the hugest snowboard films ever produced?

No, never would’ve thought that. At that point I really had no idea what was going on. When we first got there, Travis and John J were up on the North Island surfing so we didn’t have anything to do. Curt, myself, and the crew went to a random island called Stuart Island. We went fishing and tried to catch some kiwi birds for a

You went from filming with Jesse Burtner to then Standard which is the big guns, to Brain Farm- How did you all of a sudden go from filming with Standard to Travis Rice’s project?

It was actually kind of out of the blue. I was getting kind of tired of doing the same thing- it was like the 7th film I’d done with Standard. I’d had a pretty long winter, and Curt Morgan kept calling me that summer hounding me to go to New Zealand with him. I’d briefly met Curt before, didn’t know Travis- really didn’t know Curt either. Finally, after pretty much dodging his calls for quite a while, I picked up. They wanted me to come to New Zealand with them. I hopped on a plane and went to New Zealand where we filmed “That’s It, That’s All” section. That was the first time I met them and we just kind of hit it off from there, and I’ve been working with Travis ever since.

So that was the first time you met Travis Rice. As a person did he strike you as over the top, or was he super chill easy to get along with?

No we hit it off right away, he’s mellow.

Kind of like me I guess, mellow but also does some weird, wild shit too. No man, it was love at first sight. It’s been fun, I think it’s been almost ten years now that Trav and I have been doing this together. It’s pretty crazy to think about.

Did you have any connotations at that time when you filmed in New Zealand that you would be ten years later and part of three of

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couple days, and that was my introduction to Curt, and Travis showed up three days later.

You went from “That’s It,That’s All” to “The Art of Flight,” which when that came out it was really ground breaking. It really set Travis and you guys apart from the rest of the industry. Did you feel being involved with “The Fourth Phase,” that you had excessive pressure dealing with the fact that you guys had built from one film, the second film got bigger, better… and ‘how were you going to top that?’

For me I didn’t really have that thought. I knew if we went out, snowboarded, and had fun we would eventually get what we wanted, or whatever we got would be good enough- But you get so many other people involved, and a big company like Red Bull, not to mention a team of 12-17 dudes working in the field, it tends to change things. Yeah there is more pressure because everybody is kind of feeling it.

But with “The Art of Flight, “we definitely weren’t trying to make “The Art of Flight 2” with “The Fourth Phase.” I think it took its own direction, and it took us a while to settle in anyway. Every film is just that much bigger, and “The Fourth Phase” was just a huge undertaking.

How did it become “The Fourth Phase?”

It’s actually the fourth film because Curt and Travis did “The Community Project” together.

Not too many people actually know that. So it’s actually the fourth film, but that’s not even the reason. We were looking for a name and we were like two years in and needed to lock in a name for Red Bull and marketing purposes. Travis rolled across Dr. Gerald Pollack’s book “The Fourth Phase of Water” and TEDxTalks, and it really interested him and he took it to heart. He reached out to Dr. Pollack who is the head of Bioengineering at the University of Washington in Seattle. We kind of hit it off with him, and Travis is kind of a sci-fi technical person in general. So the fact that this substance that makes up most of our body and that we thrive onthere’s just so much more to it. It plays through in the movie too.

What was unique about each place you spent time at for “The Fourth Phase” and your other films?

The best part of being involved in a project like this is working with such a dedicated crew in places where we are out of our comfort zones. Working on the last three projects with Travis we have seen some of the most amazing places on earth. Filming for “That’s It That’s All,” we spent quite a bit of time in New Zealand,

which is one of my favorite places. The food, the people, the landscape, everything about it. Spring-like weather in the valleys down to the ocean.

Filming for TAOF we spent about five weeks down in Patagonia. We were 40 miles from Cape Horn. We flew over and went diving for sea urchin in the same waters Ferdinand Magellan sailed through finding a route to be the first to circumnavigate the globe in 1520.

America is very young, so one of my favorite things about traveling is immersing yourself in the culture, learning the history and traditions.

During “The Fourth Phase” we spent quite a bit of time in Japan, which is the snowiest place in the world, and also drenched in culture. On January 15th we spent the Japanese New Year at the Fire Festival, which was insane. Forty two year old men are charging this structure that the twenty six year old men are protecting. The age of twenty six is considered a year of bad luck in Japan. So for hours these guys are charging at

Scott Serfas/Red Bull Content Pool

each other with a bundle of burning branches beating each other through the night, finally breaking through the wall. They ignite this amazing Japanese type gazebo. Flames of at least 100ft high rage until the structure collapses. After Japan, we flew to Russia on the Kamchatka peninsula directly across from Alaska. The place is unreal, with more active volcanoes than anywhere else in the world.

The mountains go straight into the ocean and form one of the most beautiful coastlines out there. We heard of an active volcano so naturally we flew to it and camped at the base, probably a mile from where it was erupting. It was on point, almost every 15 minutes the thing would explode. When it got dark we geared up to enjoy the fireworks.

Winds were a constant 80 MPH winds with gnarly gusts. We built walls around the cameras so they wouldn’t shake during a time lapse. That proved to be pretty challenging.

So traveling, getting to know locals, and embracing the culture is by far one of my favorite things.

Many of the places you visit are recognized as having powerful natural energy... Have you felt this in any particular place you’ve been?

Travis and I rode a massive shoot in Patagonia.

Before the madness and the camera ship was ready, Trav and I had a moment to ourselves. We were checking out these rocks that covered the ground and they were all sparkling, the entire floor was almost glowing.

We realized at that moment that we were probably the only people who had ever been there and probably would be the last. It was the calm before the storm. Followed up by doubling down a Shute with snow flying down the middle trying to suck you down.

Two thirds of the way down we had to rock climb down fifty feet of a cliff, before racing to the helicopter before we ran out of fuel. We flew home as high as we could so if we ran out of gas we could auto rotate and hopefully land on solid ground. We landed with 3% fuel.

In the states, if you land with less than 20% you’re in for some serious fines.

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What is involved in working sponsors and Red Bull who tend to set a high bar as they push beyond the comfort zones?

I have been fortunate to have sponsors that trust me to get the job done. No matter what, at the end of the day you’re trying to exceed the bar you have set for yourself. You never get everything you wanted, that isn’t the point anyway. We all need goals and something to strive for but it’s just a guideline. The pressure that comes with it is usually self-inflicted.

That being said, working with Red Bull on a project of this magnitude is a different monster entirely. Many people were concerned that we had to blow TAOF (“The Art of Flight”)

out of the water. No matter people’s preconceived expectations are or were, the last thing we wanted to make was TAOF2. I tried removing myself from the inner workings as much as possible, but it’s all around all the time. In the end you can’t live your life worried about other people’s opinions, you’ll never measure to everyone’s exceptions, so you do it for yourself.

When you guys were on the trip in Russia that literally got shut down, did Travis really put that much time into planning and mapping it out?

Every single thing in that film, Travis did all the research. Every place we went he sought out everybody

Scott Serfas_Red Bull Content Pool- Mark Landvik

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Scott Serfas_Red Bull Content Pool- Mark in Russia

as far as the guides, people who talk to you about the terrain, he’s a wizard with Google Earth. He’d been working on it about two years when we got shut down, so it was devastating for him- for all of us it was, but even more for him just because he was wearing quite a bit more of a director’s coat in this film and taking a lot more on his shoulders so I think that cut into him pretty heavy. All of us it did, especially after Japan and then being in Russia for four weeks and then extending to go to the Kirils because we finally had our window, and then the military shut us down. The tourism industry was super pissed. Apparently a bunch of them got canned. We had the right paperwork, but they didn’t give a f*** When you were in Alaska filming,

Scott Serfas/Red Bull Content Pool Caption: Rice, Jackson, Landvik

you just left. How did you come to that moment up there, where you were like all of a sudden “I can’t do this”?

At that point we did five weeks in Japan, five weeks in Russia… we were almost in 3 months on the road, fighting conditions, battling working with a crew of fifteen people. Then we got up to Alaska and it was the worst snow year they’d ever had. We had been on the road so long, and I had some other things going on that weren’t letting me think clearly. When conditions are like that, snowboarding seemed like the last thing on the plate. It was the hardest decision I’ve ever made snowboarding, for sure. I questioned myself the whole time- my sponsors, the film, the rest of the film, all these things.

At the end of the day, I knew I wouldn’t

be able to ride at a level that I wanted to and not being in that comfort zone and not being able to charge is when you’re probably going to run into complications out there. You need to be on point and be able to charge. I wasn’t in the right head space, and I bounced. It was a good decision in hindsight, it was exactly what I needed to do at the time.

One thing that you are most thankful for…

Friends and family for sure. Throughout the course of this film, the bond we made with the entire crew. That’s what kept us going too is having such a rad team around you. Same thing goes for I think anything in life, being able to surround yourself with people that support you no matter what.

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Tim Zimmerman_Red Bull Content Pool- Mark Landvik

Scary moments…

Being in an avalanche has always been my biggest fear. I lost friends in avalanches, first when I was 17. I was buried to my neck in Haines after I tried to out run the slide but in the end got taken out. I was swimming as hard as I could, trying to stay on the surface. When it all slowed down I was thrown onto my stomach and snow started to stack up onto my back putting me in scorpion position. When the snow stopped moving the only thing sticking was my head. I went home after that. In

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BC during TAOF I was caught again. I knew that my safe zone was to the right. When it initially broke I threw my board sideways into a tree to try and anchor myself, but the snow was moving too fast and I just bounced off. I really needed to get to the right. I backstroked to stay afloat. At one point, I knew I had made it right, which was relieving, but it wasn’t over. I hadn’t gotten as far right as I thought and before I knew it, I was catapulted off a 50 foot cliff onto my ass on hard pack, since the slide propagated below and had pulled that

snow out. I was really mad at myself for pushing the conditions, and at that point we called it and I took a very long bath.

What’s your “can’t live without” list of things to bring on such challenging travels My stretching kit!! Stretching rope, yoga mat, body rollers (not the foam ones, they suck), tennis balls, rubber bands, other junk and a slew of vitamins and supplements.

Concepts from “The Fourth Phase” You were talking about the hydrology process that the film was kind of built around…

Prior to finding the name and meeting Dr. Pollack and having “The Fourth Phase,” we were already following the hydrological cycle. That was the plan from the beginning. Originally, Travis and I were going to hop on a 90 foot aluminum sail boat and sail from Japan to Russian to Alaska and stop along the way, which would’ve been super gnarly- I’m glad we didn’t. That fell through, but we still did follow the hydrological cycle and that’s what ended up being cool about meeting up with Dr. Pollack because it just tied in to what we were already working on.

Do you feel like you see first hand the climate changing?

Of course. Yeah it’s pretty scary. When I was a kid it would snow 6-7 feet at sea

level in Juneau where I grew up. The glacier used to have towering walls 200300 feet in the air super close to the visitor center. Now it’s 2 miles away and it’s just this dwindling, ugly looking glacier.

It’s just rocks, and it’s melting- it’s gnarly.

All over the place- during the film Alaska had two of the worst years in history on record ever. So yeah, unfortunately we’re definitely seeing the effects of it the last 35 years on the snow.

“Only fear is failure”- Is this the only fear and how do you manage this fear?

When it all boils down, the fear of failure is something that effects a lot of decisions.

And yes, for the most part I think it all comes full circle and our fear of failure is the main catalyst in our decisions. Failure is good. You can learn so much from it if you pay attention. It’s all about perception.

Travis is said to have “reckless optimism...” Do you believe this is something all possess when chasing their dreams and living their passions?

I’m sure in some sense, but with Travis his drive and persistence is unmatched as far as I’ve seen. He is on a mission and many obstacles that he encounters would have almost anyone else throwing in the towel. Travis doesn’t work like that. With constant persistence you can also tend to dismiss some red flags, and that’s just human nature. Just like sometimes things just weren’t meant to be. It might seem like defeat to some people, but that’s part of being a professional; knowing when to push and when to let off. The hardest part is second-guessing your decision later. You have to trust yourself.

Scott Serfas_Red Bull Content Pool- Russia

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reflect and pay attention to the things that you make you happy. Fear controls our society, whether it’s fear of what others think, fear of the government, or working in a job you have never enjoyed because you’re afraid of the unknown.

I think you find the most truth in the scariest moments of your life. I’m not talking about snowboarding, but the real shit. Losing a love one, having your heart broken, standing up for something you believe in, or following your dreams and not letting fear of the unknown hold you back from living the life you dream about. I think you find truth by looking inward, and that usually happens when you’re passing through a time of turmoil.

You just need to be true to yourself.

Off the Mountain Do you think there is going to be another film?

Travis and I will definitely do something together again for sure. As far as a big Red Bull, Brain Farm production, I have no idea. But I know Travis and I will be doing stuff together for sure, which I’m pretty excited about.

What kind of training do you do?

I bench press trees with Travis and Sasquatch, only in rainforests!

Scott Serfas_Red Bull Content Pool- Landvik, Jackson, and Rice

In your experience, how might you suggest that people can maintain the truth-seeking nature of humans, that need to explore and curiosity that many say becomes lost by adulthood?

How do you define “real truth seeking”?

This world we live in is busy. Too busy.

The most enjoyable things in life are the simple ones. We were meant to be outside exploring and getting lost in adventure. People have taken the digital age way too far and are consumed by things that have no relevance to their own life. If you spend all your time consumed with what others are doing or what they think of you, how do you find any time for yourself to

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Off the mountain, you came home and you started to do your own thing and work with N-Grained Inc. Fill us in with that…

N-Grained Inc. started out six years ago when I blew my knee out for “The Art of Flight.” I came home and essentially turned my garage into a wood shop.

I was already making furniture at that point, so I wanted to try a business and see how it went. I sold a couple pieces, and then it kind of sat there til last summer when Jamie Lynn and James Johnson that I grew up with in Alaska were here and we spent all summer collaborating. Matt French ended up being here quite a bit, and it just felt like the right time. James and I kind of took off with it. We’ve got some pretty

cool projects and collaborations going on. It’s cool to have something nearly as engaging as snowboarding. It’s not as engaging as snowboarding is as far as being in the moment, but it’s something that can really be engaging for me without having to be at such a high level of consequence.

A message to those coming behind you....

Snowboarding’s backbone and what sets us apart is style. Progression is natural, but when everyone is doing the same tricks and spinning that fast a lot of the individual style is lost. Unfortunately, in the contest arena, style is almost irrelevant. “Less is more, slower is faster” are words that I live by, and I think that

can be applied to so many things in life.

Without style snowboarding had no authenticity. It is what will set you apart.

ymore info:

www.thefourthphase.com www.ngrainedinc.com www.lib-tech.com/snowboarding/team/marklandvik/

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An Adventure into Humanity’s Origins with

George Bullard

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G

eorge Bullard is a modern day explorer and adventurer who’s already broken 4 world records, covered more than 2,000 miles on foot in the polar regions, has just returned from another record breaking expedition and is only 28 years old. In the summer of 2016 George & his team mate Olly Hicks were trying to uncover an ancient myth by kayaking across the ferocious North Atlantic Ocean from Greenland to Scotland.

In 1728 an Inuit man arrived on a beach in the North East of Scotland, near Aberdeen. He was wearing full seal skin clothing, paddling a traditional Greenlandic skin-on-bone kayak and carrying all his hunting gear. He died 3 days later… Up until now nobody knows how that man got there, whether he did indeed paddle 1,200nm from Greenland or whether he came via other means! This is what George and Olly set out to unearth or at least add speculation to the fact that he might have paddled the entire way.

As we lowered the kayak into the water at the Greenlandic iceedge, there was a mixture of emotions, from the fear as to what lay ahead of us, to excitement at the thought of experiencing true, unbridled adventure. We were about to do something that no human has ever attempted – potentially, and the stakes were high, very high!

We lived in the kayak, resting and paddling both at the same time barely an inch above the burningly cold ocean water which was black like the inside of a cave and made your hands flinch with every touch and left us questioning what animals could survive in such Arctic temperatures. Dressed in nothing more than a dry suit and a fleece base layer we battled against the unforgiving oceanic weather until after 46hrs paddling we arrived on a beach in NW Iceland. Unable to stand upright, we staggered to a fresh water stream and collapsed into it.

Life on board the kayak is beyond difficult – completing the simplest of tasks seems to take hours. Cooking hot meals was one way of mitigating our largest risk: hypothermia, but as you might imagine cooking at sea is difficult, cooking in a kayak at sea is almost impossible.

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The following two weeks on the expedition consisted of paddling 600nm between headlands around the north and east coast of Iceland until we reached Neskaupstadur. Not only did we pass some of the most majestic fjords and mountains, we also met some incredibly generous and welcoming people before arriving at our last stop on the Icelandic coast.

Our first attempt to cross from Iceland to the Faroes was unsuccessful, as we met a fishing boat who strongly advised us to return to shore for fear of our lives – we called our weather forecasters and asked for their opinion; 2 out of 3 said we should

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head back to the mainland so we did! This leg was our longest and most dangerous stretch of open ocean famously called ‘The Devils Dancefloor’. There was no support boat next to us, so once we left land we were committed, we had everything we needed to exist from loo paper to fresh water. This leg could’ve taken us up to a week and of course, weather forecasts aren’t that accurate that far out – hence the danger. If the weather had changed for the worse, we had nowhere to hide.

The second time we left for the Faroes we made it, at 03:00hrs as the sun was about to rise, surrounded by vast cliffs and a still,

unmoving ocean. We hit the beach having crossed 260nm of ocean in just under 100hrs, crawled out of the kayak, collapsed into the sand of Tjornuvik Bay and were simply relieved to have dry land beneath our feet once again. Arriving into the Faroe Islands was a moment we will never forget.

We had been away from home for almost 2 months and the summer season was drawing to a close. Our weather windows were not only getting shorter, but they were also becoming less frequent. The weather was our dictator; it was the only factor that would determine whether this expedition was possible or not.

Three weeks of waiting and after one false start, there was a narrow chance that we could leave the Faroes and make for the Scottish mainland. The window was tight so the island of North Rona (45nm NW of mainland Scotland) seemed like a great place to stop and wait out a storm but we had to get there first…

With only a matter of minutes to spare before gales ensued and the ocean turned into a fury of white horses, we landed at North Rona – hard ground couldn’t have come sooner. North Rona is a deserted island with no running water, so having got there, it

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was then a game of survival. Collecting fresh water from the roof and hunting sea birds and limpets was how we survived.

Sixty-six days after leaving the coast of Greenland, we paddled silently into Balnakeil Bay, N. Scotland having done something that potentially no human had ever done before and if they have any sense, would never do again! We had also succeeded in demonstrating that it was indeed possible that the original Finman had paddled the entire way!

George delivers motivational lectures to all audiences (school or corporate) about his expeditions talking on topics such as success, failure and realising goals (www.georgebullard.co.uk).

George also runs IGO Adventures which organises expedition races around the world making adventure accessible to those who only have one week to spare (www.igoadventures.com) - come join in 2017! is almost impossible.

The following two weeks on the expedition consisted of paddling 600nm between headlands around the north and east coast of Iceland until we reached Neskaupstadur. Not only did we pass some of the most majestic fjords and mountains, we also met some incredibly generous and welcoming people before arriving at our last stop on the Icelandic coast.

Our first attempt to cross from Iceland to the Faroes was unsuccessful, as we met a fishing boat who strongly advised us to return to shore for fear of our lives – we called our weather forecasters and asked for their opinion; 2 out of 3 said we should head back to the mainland so we did!

This leg was our longest and most dangerous stretch of open ocean famously called ‘The Devils Dancefloor’. There was no support boat next to us, so once we left land we were committed, we had everything we needed to exist from loo paper to fresh water. This leg could’ve taken us up to a week and of course, weather forecasts aren’t that accurate that far out – hence the

ymore info: website: georgebullard.co.uk Instagram: @georgebullardexplorer

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Everyone has talent. What’s rare is the courage to follow it to the dark places where it leads.

Erica Jong

When Passion Just Isn’t Enough

By Clair Marie 80

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I am a firm believer that passion should be the driving force behind our actions. Passion should be what leads our lives in the direction that we want to go. Not money, not fame, but doing something that fills our soul.

It is really easy to say, “find your passion and follow it” but to be honest it isn’t really that easy to do.

With the Internet filling our head with all of these “easy steps to get where you want to go,” each step-by-step guide fails to mention one simple but very big piece of the puzzle. It is a lot of hard work. And not just like, ‘oh I sit in an office and work a lot.’ I mean nose to the grindstone for hours, days, and some times weeks on end with no solid promise of success.

Weeks, months, and years of just figuring it out as you go. As an entrepreneur who is building a career out of a passion, your job title may change not just daily, but hourly. You will wear the many hats of a business owner, CEO, and CFO. You will troubleshoot, Google your ass off, and just figure it out.

Most people have these grand ideas of what it is like to follow your dream for a living, envisioning that it is all fun and games, and it’s all good times while you navigate the world doing what you love. Not to burst your perfect bubble, but nothing is perfect… and it’s better that way.

I wouldn’t give up the life that I have created for the world. Every late night, Every frustrating coding error, change of travel plans, agreement and document draft, financial discussion, legal research, and all of the many other things that I’ve had to do that make up what I’ve built are things that I am proud of.

Every time I get an email from someone who says they want what I have, they want advice to live their dreams, or they want to know my secret, I tell them: Eleven years… eleven years of hard work. Eleven years of blood, sweat, and tears- But, eleven of the most amazing, challenging, fun, and life changing years. That is what it takes!

So yes, passion is simply not enough. In order to build the life that you want you need so much more than just passion.

You need drive, dedication, patience, a thin skin, and compassion for others and yourself. You need to be open. Open to other ideas, opinions, changes, and failures.

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In order to build the life that you want you need so much more than just passion.

You need drive, dedication, patience, a thick skin, and compassion for others and yourself

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aspects of following your dreams…. If you are ok with the blissful picture of perfect times but also the dirty, grimy, scrape your way through it times- then, and only then are you ready to pursue your passions and build them into a life long career.

My life is not all glitz and glam, or adventure and exploration. Those things just scratch the surface of what I do. But everything I do that is not just the tip of the iceberg is done to allow me the life that I so desperately desired for so

many years.

There is nothing more empowering than seeing your hard work and dedication pay off. The feeling of looking back and being able to say “wow… look at how many times I failed but I got back up. Look at what I have built.” It is those times, those feelings that make everything I do so worth it.

I encourage everyone to follow their dreams and turn their passions into their careers, but I don’t want to portray this unauthentic and unrealistic

figure that preaches how easy it is to have and do what you want. What I will tell you is that it is worth it! So buck up, figure out what you want, pursue it relentlessly, and don’t be afraid to get dirty!

ymore info: website: basegirl.com Instagram: @thebasegirl

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FtC fitness

Push & Pull for Faster Workouts and Faster Progress

BY David Ryan Fitness In general, each primary muscle group is considered to be either a push muscle group or a pull muscle group. A push muscle group is defined as a muscle group in which the muscle tissue contracts when the weight is pushed away from the body. Example: Chest and triceps during push-ups

Alternate PUSH-UPS & ROWS FOR 8 TOTAL SETS

PUSH

On the other hand, a pull muscle group contracts as the weight is pulled toward the body. Example: back and biceps during pullups By training agonist and antagonistic muscles in a superset fashion, you allow your pushing muscles to rest, while you’re pulling muscles are working, and vice versa.

If you choose the right exercises, you can work more muscle at one time, causing a growth hormone (GH) spike which means increased fat burning and lean muscle gain.

Try this 4 minute push - pull home workout for more gains in less time. Keep the intensity high and repeat the workout up to 3 times.

Be sure to warm up properly and allow a day of rest before hitting it again.

PULL

David Ryan is a celebrity trainer in Los Angeles, California and creator of LIFTSTRONG Max Intensity Interval Training.

yTraining programs & Resistance bands: www.DavidRyanFitness.com Instagram: DavidRyanFitness YouTube: LIFTSTRONG 84

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20: WORK 10: REST

Need a Trainer?

Get in the best shape of your life this year with David Ryan Fitness.

FtC fAce the current

HEALTH & WELLBEING 88 THE ways of the wild, encapsulated 94 The life-changing Potential of

Fermented Foods 100 The True Path to Health and Longevity

Debunking the myths . Part 2 108 How to Save Bees From Worldwide Extinction

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FtC

The Ways of the Wild, Encapsulated health

By Regan Nally

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If you are someone who from time to time scours the walls of natural foods stores in search of supplements to support your health or fitness regime, you may have an idea of what is available in the marketplace today. Then again, you may feel lost! There is a vast array of dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, gels, liquids, sprays, and a competitive line-up of companies donning their emblems on store shelves and websites around the world. At times this sheer volume of choices can be overwhelming, and the challenge is how to best choose where to invest your dollar at the expense of your health. The dietary

supplement industry is rapidly growing and the competition with the pharmaceutical industry will only increase regulatory stamina.

With some people spending upwards of $500 per month on supplements, it’s important to know what it is you are actually getting. New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman made a case against the dietary supplement industry in 2015 after discovering that nearly 80% of the supplements his office had tested did not contain any of the herbs listed on the label.

“Many of the products contained cheap fillers, including wheat, legumes and other ingredients that are hazardous to consumers with allergies.”

–Eric Schneiderman

As the FDA has no requirement for labels on supplements to indicate the country of origin of ingredients and labeling terms abound that are confusing or misleading, it can be difficult to truly know what you’re getting. Here we will introduce a brief background and suggest simple ways to cut to the chase and choose your products wisely.

Dietary supplements in the US are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and must be stated as dietary supplements on their packaging. Though these regulations are criticized for being loosely implemented, this has more to do with the limited funding and expanding global marketplace. These regulations took it up a notch in 2010 when all manufacturers and producers of dietary supplements were required to comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The intention of these GMPs are to hold dietary supplement products to a high standard of quality, incorporating the safety and purity of the ingredients from which the product is comprised. As the dietary ingredient marketplace grows ever increasingly global, the emphasis put on testing of these ingredients has simultaneously increased. The scenario still remains where there are too many products to be properly evaluated for compliance. Due to this gap in enforcement there are a few things a consumer can be attuned to in order to optimize the quality of their chosen dietary supplements.

• Organic certification • Ingredients grown in the USA or Europe Those are the two most overarching qualities to look for!

How do you know if a supplement company can be trusted?

Having faith in a company translates to trusting that they are producing or purchasing ingredients that are validated• The ingredients are indeed what the label states they are • The methods of analysis carried out in order to validate ingredients are actually fit for purpose • Any claims made are substantiated through experimentation • Beware of structure/function claims • Identify the source of where the product is made Many of these trusting qualities boil down to less links in the processing chain and the closer to home the better!

Identifying where the product is made can get more complicated when the product is a blend of different ingredients and the ingredients have been sourced from China but have been blended and packed in the US. A label may state that the product is made in the USA despite the ingredients having been grown in China.

The United States and Europe are home to some of the cleanest environments and most stringent regulations governing pesticides and agricultural practices. Therefore, supplements that contain ingredients from these countries are considered of higher quality compared to their counterparts from China and India. If there is any question about the source of ingredients, one can always contact the company and inquire.

This puts pressure on companies to be transparent and to deliver what the customer base demands. www.facethecurrent.com

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Labeling Terms 101

Organic Organic certification is a quality marker to look for, however use of this term can be misleading on labels.

There are multiple bodies that can certify products as organic. The word ‘organic’ is often used on product labels, however if the product does not actually say that it is certified organic by a particular agency, then it is probably not. Certified organic dietary supplements are superior to their non-certified counterparts because the product must have been shown to be made from certified organic ingredients and distills down to a cleaner product in terms of pesticides and heavy metals, as well as

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more sustainable agricultural practices for our planet. If the label does not specify 100% organic, the regulations allow for products that contain 95% organic ingredients to be certified as organic. Now, that remaining 5% may be a variety of things. In particular, the verbiage ‘natural flavors’ can bestow a wide array of materials.

Natural In a nutshell, the semantics here are capitalizing on the distinction between natural and artificial. If something does not contain artificial colors, artificial flavors, nor artificial ingredients then it can be of natural origin.

Powdered Extract This term may include excipients such as maltodextrin in an unidentified proportion. Typically, one would expect a dried down liquid extract to be just that- the solids that remain after the liquid has been removed, affording a concentrate of the extract.

The process of drying things down often reaches a point at which removal of the last bit of water is

a challenge such that a substance that can hold water and therefore act as a desiccant is added. The prime example of such an additive is maltodextrin. Maltodextrin keeps the dried powder from absorbing water and forming clumps which interfere with the viscosity of the material and potentially the downstream processing.

As stated, the full disclosure of how much maltodextrin is included in the powdered extract is as of yet not required to be on the label. A consumer may think they are getting a particular amount of a powdered extract when in reality they may only be getting a portion of that due to the presence of excipients.

Structure/Function Claims Perhaps one of the greatest loopholes used by companies are structure/ function claims, which are allowed so long as they do not imply treatment or curative powers for a disease. These can be incredibly misleading and highly controversial by making claims such as “may improve memory.”

Did u Yo Know

exudate from the castor n sacs of the North America ed as a and European beaver is us food products? flavoring for all kinds of reum is This material called casto r and is on considered a natural flavo inistration’s the Food and Drug Adm as safe) GRAS (generally regarded s, beavers list of food additives. Ye ed emit a substance that is us for flavoring, such as vanilla!

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Proceed With Caution!!!

Consumer Reports 2016 has released 15 ingredients they recommend always avoiding. These items listed are readily available in supplements sold in major stores like Costco, Whole Foods and Walmart and can easily be purchased online.

• Aconite (a.k.a Aconiti tuber, aconitum, angustifolium, monshood, radix aconti, wolfsbane) Used for: Reducing inflammation, joint pain, and gout.

Cautioned Risks: Nausea, vomiting, weakness, paralysis, breathing and heart problems, possibly death • Caffeine powder (a.k.a 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) Used for: Weight loss, increased energy, and athletic performance Cautioned Risks: Seizures, heart arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, possibly death; particularly dangerous when combined with other stimulants •Chaparral (a.k.a Creosote bush, greasewood, larrea divaricata, larrea tridentata, larreastat) Used for: Weight loss, inflammation, colds, rashes, and infections Cautioned Risks: Kidney problems, liver damage, possibly death •Coltsfoot (a.k.a Coughwort, farfarae folium leaf, foalswort, tussilago farfara) Used for: Cough, sore throat, laryngitis, and asthma Cautioned Risks: Liver damage, possible carcinogen •Comfrey (a.k.a Blackwort, bruisewort, slippery root, symphytum officinale) Used for: Cough, heavy periods, stomach problems, and chest pain Cautioned Risks: Liver damage, cancer, possibly death •Germander (a.k.a Teucrium chamaedrys, viscidum) Used for: Weight loss, fever, arthritis, gout, and stomach problems Cautioned Risks: Liver damage, hepatitis, possibly death •Greater Celadine (a.k.a Celandine,

chelidonium majus, chelidonii herba) Used for: Stomach aches Cautioned Risks: Liver damage

•Green tea extract powder (a.k.a Camellia sinensis) Used for: Weight loss Cautioned Risks: Dizziness, ringing in the ears, reduced absorption of iron; exacerbates anemia and glaucoma; elevates blood pressure and heart rate; liver damage; possibly death

•Red yeast rice (a.k.a Monascus purpureus) Used for: high cholesterol and heart disease Cautioned Risks: Kidney and muscle problems, liver problems, hair loss; can magnify effect of cholesterollowering statin drugs, increasing the risk of side effects

•Kava (a.k.a Ava pepper, kava kava, piper methysticum) Used for: anxiety and insomnia Cautioned Risks: Liver damage, exacerbates Parkinson’s and depression, impairs driving,

possibly death

•Yohimbe (a.k.a Johimbi, pausinystalia yohimbe, yohimbine, corynanthe johimbi) Used for: low libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, and weight loss Cautioned Risks: Raises blood pressure; causes rapid heart rate, headaches, seizures, liver and kidney problems, heart problems, panic attacks, possibly death

•Lobelia (a.k.a Asthma weed, lobelia inflata, vomit wort, wild tobacco) Used for: Respiratory problems and for quitting smoking Cautioned Risks: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, rapid heartbeat, confusion, seizures, hypothermia, coma, possibly death

•Usnic Acid (a.k.a Beard moss, tree moss, usnea) Used for: Weight loss and pain relief Cautioned Risks: Liver injury

•Methylsynephrine (a.k.a Oxilofrine, p-hydroxyephedrine, oxyephedrine, 4-HMP) Used for: weight loss, increased energy, and athletic performance Cautioned Risks: Causes heart rate and rhythm abnormalities, cardiac arrest; particularly risky when taken with other stimulants •Pennyroyal oil (a.k.a Hedeoma pulegioides, mentha pulegium) Used for: breathing problems and digestive disorders Cautioned Risks: Liver and kidney failure, nerve damage, convulsions, possibly death

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FtC health

The life-changing Potential of

Fermented Foods BY

Dr. Jeremy Princi

DC BSc(Chiro) BChiro(Hons),Pg.Dip.(Sports Chiro), ICCSP, HLC

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For as long as I can recall I have been interested in health and wellness.

Unfortunately, with so much information and misinformation out there a lot of what I thought was ‘healthy’ was in fact detrimental to my health. Whilst studying Chiropractic at University I gave up competitive sports and decided I would just keep up my fitness by going to the gym. I took all the protein powders, pre/ post/during workout hyper-marketed supplements, most of which were so fluorescent they probably would glow in the dark. I ate oats, egg whites, chose lean cuts of meat as that was what all the fitness ‘gurus’ recommended. My physique was lean and muscular, and to the naked eye I appeared healthy. After 5 or so years training and eating this way, what looked healthy on the outside was a different story on the inside.

I developed bad back pain, I had quite bad acne on my back (as my liver was screaming trying to detoxify and eliminate the toxic workout supplements etc), and essentially the ‘unhealthy inside’ started to show its face in the form of symptoms.

In the words of Paul Chek- the “Pain

Doctor” spoke out. Through the events of synchronicity I was introduced to a C.H.E.K Practitioner and later a Holistic Lifestyle Coach, which steered me in the right direction to study the C.H.E.K Holistic Lifestyle Coach program. My life changed!

I gave up all the powders, magic pills, supplements, and switched to an organic, wholefood diet. Part of this transition involved the introduction of fermented foods. Six years on I feel like a completely different person.

My skin is great, my energy is amazing, and my digestion is spot on.

Being a chiropractor I guess I see the nervous system as an integral component to overall health, and given that the gastrointestinal tract has an immense nerve supply- hence coined ‘the second brain,’ to me it makes so much sense that it has to be functioning great for optimal expression of health. With so much research out there into fermented foods such as sauerkraut (check my blog for a comprehensive review of the scientific literature) ranging from anti-cancer, immune support, and digestive support to name a few, I believe that these foods should be implemented into our diets.

Keep in mind that there are something like 500-1000 different bacteria species in the gastrointestinal tract weighing in at around 2Kg, which is essentially 90% of the cells within the human body. I believe it’s imperative that we do what we can to support the production of healthy bacteria, which starts with what we put in our mouths.

I marry my chiropractic work with gut healing strategies to essentially give the body every possible chance to express its fullest most vibrant potential. In clinic I run

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stool analysis testing to get an objective view of what the microbiota balance is looking like… are there too many of certain organisms, not enough of some, none there when they are supposed to be and so on. At the end the day these microbes have orchestrated roles to play out such as produce amino acids, vitamins, fatty acids such as butyrate, all of which help produce the important neurotransmitters. They also help ward off other pathogens, regulate the immune system, control inflammation plus more, thus we need this balance to be in good order.

Personally I aim to consume some form of fermented food with each meal whether that be fermented ketchup as a condiment, fermented salsa with nachos, some form of kraut, yogurt or beverage of some description. The beautiful thing about fermented foods is they don’t really take all that much time to prepare and once fermented and moved to the refrigerator you generally have a

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long lasting supply. In fact it’s a traditional food preparation technique that is designed to preserve food naturally and make use of an abundance of a particular vegetable or fruit that maybe growing well at the time. For instance, in winter when cabbages are in abundance it makes sense to make use of them and

fermenting is a great way of preserving them, not only minimising waste it actually transforms the cabbage into a healthier food source, it’s a win win situation! I let the seasons basically guide my fermenting, so in winter I make use of the abundance of veggies such as cabbage to make different forms of Kraut and Kimchi. I make use of the beetroots by either adding them to krauts or making the amazing tonic Beet Kvass. Summer time tends to call for refreshing beverages such as coconut water kefir, coconut yogurt, water kefir and kombucha to list a few.

To me there is nothing more satisfying than growing my own veggies, putting love and attention into the garden watching it grow and then harvesting. From there getting personal with the vegetables in the kraut making process massaging them with some nice music playing, talking to them, giving them love. It’s much more than just

it’s sad to see how detached people are from their food these days, most people have no idea where their vegetables come from, wouldn’t know the farmer, would have no clue where the animal they are eating ate their last meal, food is just calories and fuel for most people I find. a process for me, and

I put as much love into the food I create that I can offer.

If we really break the fermenting of vegetables down and take a step back all we really are doing when we detach the vegetable from the ground to make a lacto-ferment is we are continuing on the natural microbial fermentation process that the vegetable underwent whilst it was growing… The microbes in the soil are fermenting away producing nutrients in the soil for the roots of the vegetable to utilise to grow. And if we go back further and look at the cow it essentially is like a sauerkraut vessel, it eats the grass and then the microbes in its four rumens break it down producing volatile fatty acids and it then poops out manure (or sauerkraut) this nutrient dense microbially rich substance onto the land naturally fertilising it for the vegetables, grass etc to grow in. I just think it’s a fascinating processthis invisible to the naked eye world of microbes working their magic.

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Fermenting for beginners can be a little daunting and overwhelming, I know I’ve been there! So the idea behind the workshops I run is to dispel the myths, teach safe and optimal fermenting techniques and create a bit of a culture out there in the community. I would love to see every household fermenting!

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I also have a fermenting recipe book that I’ve been working on which is going to be the most comprehensive and evidence based book out there. I also have an eBook which I have released whilst I am in the process of getting the book published, which I take orders directly via email, it’s pretty awesome with links to

unlisted YouTube videos as well for more completeness. We also filmed a Workshop recently, which will be available worldwide shortly.

Here is a nice b eau winter k raut rec tiful ipe for 1 Litre S auerkra ut that I call 1

“The Gr een Love-Kr aut” Ingredients & Equipment:

a1 small green cabbage approx. 800g a2-3% Salt per vegetables

22g Salt (Himalayan or Celtic Sea Salt) aSeasoning:

Caraway seeds - 1 teaspoon

Juniper berries - 1 teaspoon

Dill - Fresh dill alternatively 1 teaspoon of dried dill tips

Bay leaves 4-5 medium sized

Dried Dulse flakes - 1 teaspoon (optional)

Organic is a must in my opinion

1 Litre Good quality glass jar: I love the Fowlers-Vacola jar or Fido Procedure:

Step1: Core the cabbage and chop into small uniform sized pieces, and place in a bowl with salt

ymore info:

Step2: Massage the cabbage for approx. 10 mins which will release a lot of the water content

Dr. Jeremy Princi www.holisticlifestyler.com facebook.com/holisticlifestyler instagram.com/holistic_lifestyler

Step3: Add the seasoning above and mix through

Step4: pack into the jar nice and tight, leave a decent amount of space as the vegetables will rise as they ferment. You can put some kind of weight on the top to keep the vegetables under the brine

Leave at room temperature (ideal 18oC22oC) for 3-4 weeks before transferring to the refrigerator

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FtC health

The True Path to Health and Longevity

Debunking the myths

Part 2

FtC’s Sasha Frate and Dr. James Bentz recently met with global leader in the health and wellness industry, Dr. Daniel Pompa during his Mastermind Summit event in Park City, Utah. Together they discussed Dr. Pompa’s functional medicine methodology, which seeks the root cause of illness and removes it so the body can execute the healing- a method that runs counter to mainstream tactics, which focus on suppressing symptoms.

Dr. Pompa, D.PSc. is an educator for practitioners and the public on the root causes of inflammation driven diseases such as Weight Loss Resistance, Hypothyroid, Diabetes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Autoimmune Disorders and other chronic conditions.

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The Ancient Knowledge of Fasting: Training Health by Timing Meals.

Sasha: A lot of people are using fasting as a weight loss method, but something bigger is actually going on with fasting with our body’s ability to heal during that time.

Dr. Pompa: Animals fast instinctively when they’re sick or challenged. Humans have to be taught. When you look at the research on fasting, it’s remarkable.

Studies today show that spiritual and physical healing occur in times of fasting.

I fast nearly every day with exception of one day of the week that I like to feast to remind the body that it’s not starving.

One thing that I always teach my doctors

and any client I’m coaching, is that we don’t want to eat less; we want to eat less often. When you look at anti-aging studies, we see clearly that when people eat less, they live longer. We also know that eating less is no way to lose weight because your metabolism goes lower and lower.

We look at the Okinawans, Tibetans, the Hunza people; they eat less, but they’re not pushing food away. Their bodies feed from their internal fat. We can train our bodies that way by eating less often. By the end of the day we may eat

“

We hear that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. This is another myth.

Many older cultures all around the world do it very differently and live much longer, healthier lives.

“

Dr. Pompa: To bring someone back to where they really want to be, it’s not only what, but even when to eat- you really have to start doing things differently.

We hear that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. This is another myth. Many older cultures all around the world do it very differently and live much longer, healthier lives. I remember when I went into the depths of Africa and they wouldn’t eat until the men came back from hunting later in the afternoon and the women were preparing. They were so efficient at using fat for energy- going out all day on journeys to hunt. The point is that your body goes into a fasting mode through the night and continuing that “break-fast,” is critical because it gives our bodies the opportunity to go through amazing healing. Every time we eat, we are challenging ourselves and our digestive system, so continuing to fast until later in the day is what most our ancestors did naturally. Amazing things happen at the cellular level when we fast, so it’s something we teach our clients.

less, but by eating less often. Having the first meal later in the day, that’s where the magic is, because the body gets that same benefit that we see in the studies where it raises growth hormone and makes the cells more hormone-sensitive, which makes you live longer, healthier and with greater energy. So we can emulate what our ancestors did, and I call those ancient healing strategies.

Sasha: Elevating growth hormone is also another benefit of the new type of cardio for fat loss with high intensity training?

Dr. Pompa: Yes, if you do high intensity training in a fasting state the growth hormone surge is astronomical. I want to warn the audience that it’s not for everyone right away. You have to get your body gradually up to working at this level of efficiency. Your cells can only use two things for energy: sugar or fat. Most Americans hormonally can’t efficiently fat burners at the cellular level- due to inflammation at the cellular level. The point is this: healthy cells can use fat as energy and when we’re not eating it burns fat. When you don’t eat, cells often give you a craving you can’t resist…and this is the most common cause for breaking diets! Or it breaks the muscle down into sugar, it’s called gluconeogenesis. So either way your metabolism is getting lower or you’re breaking your diet. However, when you retrain your cells to be efficient fat burners you can go without eating.

The Hunza people were considered the healthiest people on the planet and they had something called “starving sprint” where they would come out of a harsh winter where they ate mostly fat and meat- ketotic state. They would come out of that and basically run out food and as they couldn’t yet forage, they ended up fasting for long periods. We’ve learned that the key to them living so long was their forced ketosis in the winter followed by fasting in the spring. Athletes today are using intermittent fasting to maximize their hormones. I like to call it hormone optimization- to really be at their peak fitness and recover that quickly. This kind of hormone health is where the unhealthy get healthy and for the athletes to get healthier. www.facethecurrent.com

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“

There’s a really exciting new model of understanding emerging: at the root of all disease conditions are really two things- inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. In other words, the number of mitochondria in the cell decrease, their efficiency decreases, and this is really what’s driving disease conditions.

Maximizing Mitochondria Sasha: This kind of increased mental performance would also be highly applicable for business success where people are top performers, but want to be able to focus even better.

Dr. Pompa: I interviewed Dr. Jason Fung, a brilliant doctor doing a lot of research on intermittent fasting and he said his most productive days are the days where he doesn’t eat, and I’m the same way too. We’ve gained a lot of information from his studies and it all goes back to eating less often.

“

Dr. Bentz: I’ve been in and out of intermittent fasting for a while, but I really got serious about it again this spring. The difference in my mental sharpness and clarity- you don’t even know that you don’t have it until you get it back! I always thought I function at a pretty high level, but now I’m just on and I can really feel the difference. It’s amazing!

Dr. Bentz: There’s a really exciting new model of understanding emerging: at the root of all disease conditions are really two things- inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. In other words, the number of mitochondria in the cell decrease, their efficiency decreases, and this is really what’s driving disease conditions. You can put names on the diseases, but behind them all is we are seeing this common theme. The research in this area is so exciting and pretty compelling that this is THE place to look.

Dr. Pompa: Inflammation of the cell and its membrane is critical and it’s even responsible for how bad genes are getting turned on. Bruce Lipton’s work showed that the cell membrane is really the key to turning on good genes and turning off bad ones. The mitochondria produce your energy- it’s your powerhouse. It’s how you think clearly, so when people say brain fog it’s actually a mitochondrial issue. This also affects athletes. We know that athletes have more mitochondria per cell than the average person.

We know that the sick person has less than the average person, so the key is getting more mitochondria functioning at their best.

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The GMO Dilemma Sasha: You go in depth with your explanation on GMOs in the True Cellular Detox Program.

Could you share a bit about how they are affecting our health & why you suggest avoiding genetically modified foods?

Dr. Pompa: GMOs are a really big topic, and we touched a little bit on the chemical Glyphosate that is sprayed on our foods. These GMOs are genetically modified to endure tons of chemical sprays like Glyphosate and not die. By the way the same company that produces the GMO seed and crop is the same company that produces the chemical to spray on it. Another whole topic of GMO is that the DNA from these genetically modified crops is being shared with our DNA. A lot of this is being hidden from the public. Right now there is a big labelling battle going on, over whether it should be labelled or not, so don’t eat corn and soy if it’s not 100% organic. The problem is that it’s hidden in corn, soybean, and vegetable oils. By the way, we talked about healthy fats, and I can tell you what’s not good is vegetable oils, and they’re in everything our families are eating.

The True Cellular Detox is based on the premise that if we don’t detox the cell, we won’t get well.

Let’s look at the number one problem with the mitochondria and the number one issue driving chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is caused by an overload of glucose, insulin, bad fats, and the big one now is toxins. I said we grew up in the lead generation, meaning that we literally inherited lead from our parents. The number one cause of increased lead was coming from mom during pregnancy in utero; Mercury in silver fillings, vaccinations and in contact lens fluid until the nineties. The amount of these toxins that we’ve been exposed to is extraordinary and we have neuro toxins in many common products we use: creams, makeup, food, cleaning products… these toxins are driving cellular inflammation. So here’s the message and why I call it True Cellular Detox: If we’re going to get well, we have to get upstream to where the problem is- and that’s the cell. Real detox has to be at the cell. That’s what I’ve been teaching doctors for years and that’s how I got my life back along with thousands of others.

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Get Upstream to the Cell... All Other Detox is Downstream

Brain

R1

Remove the Source

R2

Regenerate the Cell Membrane

R3

Restore Cellular Energy

Remove toxins at cellular level and set up concentration gradient to move toxins from deeper tissues (i.e. brain).

R4

Reduce Cellular Inflammation

R5

Cell

Re-Establish Methylation

• lymph • kidneys • liver •gut

Moves toxins from the cell and avoids recirculation a.k.a autointoxication.

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Strengthen downstream and cellular detox pathways to support toxin removal.

Revelation Health, LLC

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Clear deeper bio-accumulated neurotoxins that lead to most symptoms.

Strengthen downstream and cellular detox pathways to support toxin removal.

Brain

Get Upstream to the Cell... All Other Detox is Downstream

Cell

Hormones Sasha: You’ve talked about detox and you’ve made mention a few times of how a toxic cell creates hormone problems. Is the fact that so many people are taking hormones these days related to there being so many hormone related diseases?

Dr. Pompa: You look today at the escalation and epidemic of thyroid problems and diabetes and the surge in use of bioidentical hormones. However, one of the things we have to understand is that hormone problems are really a cellular problem. Taking more hormones may be needed sometimes, but we ultimately want to be led to healing. Every receptor to every hormone is located on the cells’ membranes. The hormone has to attach to the receptor to get its message in the cell. You can take all the thyroid hormone you want, but if it can’t get its message in the cell then you’re taking your medication and your bloodwork might look normal, but yet you still can’t lose weight and your hair is still falling out.

Why? Because ultimately the message from the hormone to the cell is blocked by inflammation. When we start dealing with the toxins, we can re-start these receptors that are blunted and get them working again. So it’s not about taking more hormones, it’s about getting our cells to hear it. When we look at athletes

“

and healthy people, they don’t have a high level of hormones, they’re very sensitive to the hormones they have. Bioidentical hormones are being thrown at people, but it’s not the answer.

Sasha: It’s also a fear factor that doctors are projecting on people. People go to their doctors and many are being told that the only thing they can do is take these hormones, or you’re going to get increasingly worse for the rest of your life.

Dr. Bentz: Clinically I see this all the time, where clients get put on thyroid hormones for example and by the time they get to me they say they’ve been taking this for ten years and they don’t feel any better, possibly even worse. Then you see this person develop type 2 diabetes- it happens all the time with this pattern.

Dr. Pompa: We’re not telling anyone not to take hormones, but we are saying this: work with a practitioner who really understands that if you don’t get upstream to the cause you’re really not going to fix the problem.

To address the fear thing: There is such a fear of not doing what your doctor recommends and that’s a legitimate concern. I think education is key to that, because the more you educate

yourself, the more you seek out the right practitioners who have a different view.

By the way, my story finishes that my silver amalgam fillings contained 50% mercury, and it was years of having those in my mouth that it bio-accumulated in my brain. It is known as Amalgam illness. Most countries have banned these types of fillings except right here in the United States. We realize now that the mercury vapour builds up in the brain and genetically some of us have more difficulty getting rid of it. When I got two of these fillings removed, it was shortly after that my symptoms started. When I got rid of the mercury in my brain, which is part of True Cellular Detox: there’s a Prep Phase, Body Phase and ultimately getting to the Brain Phase is what really gives people their lives back. In your brain there’s an area called the pituitary and hypothalamus, which controls your thyroid and adrenals.

That really is where studies show that toxins bio-accumulate.

We’ve been beating up the allopathic side, but the alternative side has also been known to simply throw vitamins and minerals at people. Today it’s not just a dietary change or a vitamin- you have to get to the cause.

In your brain there’s an area called the pituitary and hypothalamus, which controls your thyroid and adrenals. That really is where studies show that toxins bio-accumulate

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Anti-Aging Sasha: Now, people are spending incredible amounts of money to prevent aging and fight looks of aging on their skin. What would you say is the best kept secret for anti-ageing and where should people be putting all this money.

Dr. Pompa: Our culture has gotten so unhealthy: brain fog, no energy, hormone problems. It’s become the new normal.

It may be common, but my gosh this isn’t normal and it should not be accepted as normal.

Dr. Pompa: I think that message resonates from the natural world too. “I take my multi-vitamin, my fish oil…” and now it’s the probiotic and maybe vitamin D and they expect health from that. The point is that people just want that simple thing. “I do a cleanse every year!” Really?

It took you 30 years to bio-accumulate the toxins and we think that a little juice cleanse will do it. However, it is simple: remove the interference and the body does the healing. Our goal is to educate them in this process. Doctor in latin means teacher- we need to get back to that.

ymore info:

For more information contact www.drpompa.com or www.fidalgoislandhealthcenter.com

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“

It is simple: remove the interference and the body does the healing. Our goal is to educate them in this process.

Doctor in latin means teacherwe need to get back to that.

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Sasha: Really everybody’s looking for that magic pill or that quick fix, and it really comes down to we do need to make more of a lifestyle change and commitment. Live it.

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FtC health

How to Save Bees From Worldwide Extinction

By Jerry Angelini, Education Director & Formulation Team for Host Defense Organic Mushrooms

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Last winter (2015-2016) in the US over 42% of beehives collapsed. Millions of bees died. Bees are a primary pollinator for multiple crops worldwide and account for the pollination of approximately 60% of our food

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There have been a number of factors that have been identified as having roles in why a particular hive or a set of hives will collapse and perish.

One factor is the Varroa destructor mite. This parasite feeds off of live adult bees and the bee larvae. They can quickly overtake and decimate the hive. Their presence strains the immune functioning, decreases overall health, and reduces bee life span

considerably. The Varroa mite can also vector viral and bacterial pathogens including Deformed Wing and Lake Sinai Viruses. These viruses leave the adult bees unable to function within the hive, reducing overall viability of the hive.

Other factors that negatively impact bees include pesticide and other synthetic agricultural sprays. Bees have fewer enzymatic detoxification pathways in their livers, meaning they can’t effectively clear their bodies of toxins when they are exposed to these chemicals. As the level of toxins builds up, the bees become disoriented and don’t make it back to the hive. Toxic buildup and impaired functioning also reduces longevity, frequently killing the bees before they can do their important work within the hives.

In 1984, Paul Stamets, D.Sc. Hon, observed an interesting phenomenon when he was tending a particular mushroom patch near his home.

Over a series of weeks, Paul noticed that bees would make a continuous visitation to one particular area of the mushroom patch where they would move aside wood chips and uncover the mycelia or root structure of the mushroom. As the days progressed, he noticed that the size of the wood chip mound diminished as the bees continuously ‘sipped’ at the mycelial liquids. Taking a few pictures of what he considered interesting bee behavior, he filed it under ‘”things that make you go ‘huh’”. Fast-forward to 2014 and the media coverage on Colony Collapse Disorder, Paul remembered the interesting bee behavior and contacted Steve Shephard, PhD (Chair of the Entomology Department at

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preliminary data suggests is that the liquids that mushroom mycelia secrete may in fact be very helpful in reducing viral presence and extending the lifespan of bees

“

Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is a phenomenon that is impacting bee population in the United States and around the world.

Last winter (2015-2016) in the US over 42% of beehives collapsed.

Millions of bees died. Bees are a primary pollinator for multiple crops worldwide and account for the pollination of approximately 60% of our food. They are a keystone species in our local and global ecosystems.

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Washington State University). When Paul and Steve discussed Paul’s observations, Steve became very interested.

In 2015 Washington State University began running preliminary tests to see if the mycelial extracts from polypore mushrooms would have any benefit on bee health and longevity. What this preliminary data suggests is that the liquids that mushroom mycelia secrete may in fact be very helpful in reducing viral presence and extending the lifespan of bees. In controlled experiments some mushroom extracts significantly reduced specific viruses in bees while others increased some bees lifespans by up to 75%.

The basic data was so promising, that the research is being expanded. In conjunction with commercial beekeepers across Washington State, mycelial extracts will be fed to hundreds of hives over winter 2016-2017. In the spring of 2017 these hives will be compared to control group hives to see if the mushroom extracts have any significant impact on their health and longevity as they overwinter. Dr. Paul Stamets and Host Defense together are very hopeful and excited about these studies. We, and indeed many people across the world, are very concerned about the plight of bees. In October 2016, Hawaii declared 7 wild species of bee as endangered. Bee specialists worldwide suggest that if we don’t figure out a way to help bees live longer and healthier lives we may see worldwide extinction of bees in five to ten years!

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Stop using synthetic pesticides and choose organic options for pest and ‘weed’ control.

nd

2

In October 2016, Hawaii declared 7 wild species of bee as endangered. Bee specialists worldwide suggest that if we don’t figure out a way to help bees live longer and healthier lives we may see worldwide extinction of bees in five to ten years!

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Plant wild flowers.

Yes, I said wild flowers. Native and managed bee colonies love wildflowers. The diversity of wildflower pollen and nutrients increases bee and hive health.

What can you d

o to help?

This is a grea t question. M any people fe stop such a h el po uge and rapid attack on bee werless to of us in fact ca s. B n take a num ber of small ye ut each steps to help t significant our bees.

3rd

4th

Inoculate and tend your gardens and soils and mulch with beneficial mushroom species like Reishi. If the mushroom mycelia establish themselves, the bees can find their way to your mushroom patch and sip the immune supportive liquids on their own.

You can donate directly to Washington State University through www.beefriendlyinitiative.org

ymore info: Do your part to keep bees buzzing lively…Give Bees a Chance!

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BUSINESS 114 118 122

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The Economy Has Shifted THE POWER OF KINDNESS 5 Sustainable Businesses Making Global Impact

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FtC business

The Economy Has Shifted

by David Asarnow, Founder of Business Oxygen

While the elections just happened, no matter when you are reading this, I am sure that the economy is shifting or in a state of flux. This state of flux has become the new norm.

As a nation, the U.S. is struggling to come out of arguably one of the largest downturns since the 1930s. And yet, even though the economy has shifted, think about it -- there are people and businesses that are still doing great!

Right? And there are also people and companies who are doing average or failing.

How can that be? How can some companies do great (even in the same industry) and others fail miserably if they are all working under the same economic conditions?

Take a moment to really think about this.

No matter where the economy is, there

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The United States just finished the 2016 Presidential elections, and the uncertainty of the new administration is once again creating angst across the globe. Some are happy, some are not, but the constant is the unknown.

are people who are monetizing effectively, even making huge profits. So is it the economy that is ultimately going to determine whether or not a person or businesses is a success? Absolutely not!

So here is what you should be asking yourself right now: If it’s not the economy, who or what is it? What is going to determine someone’s monetization success?

Yes, you are right, it is the leader or entrepreneur that is ultimately going to determine his own success! Yes, this is you! And the skills you have and the actions that you are willing to take using these skills will be what set your success apart from other struggling businesses.

And what does the world reward -

information or action?

The world rewards action! That is why you need to take massive action now, consistently and always!

It is important to focus what you really want your business and make sure you consistently take deliberate actions towards achieving your intention.

on in

Why? Because, as entrepreneurs, we are easily affected by the Shiny Object Syndrome (S.O.S). While it may feel like ADD or ADHD, it’s not quite it! S.O.S is where a new idea captures your imagination and/or attention and you become distracted from the bigger picture and go off on tangents!

With all of the new gimmicks out there, it is easy to become distracted by S.O.S’s latest fad, gimmick, or short term idea. Do you know anyone like this? Do you know them intimately?

Yes, it is a challenge to avoid going off in a million directions when there are so many opportunities out there. However, what happens when you give in to the S.O.S. temptation is that you never really complete anything. Shiny Object Syndrome and the inherent loss of focus may very well be costing you hundreds of hours a year in lost opportunity, productivity, and lost hours, not to mention what this can mean financially!

Why is S.O.S. such a draw for an entrepreneur?

There’s great energy and excitement in something new. Plugging along with a proven, consistent system can seem boring in comparison. For example, we hear of a new product, a “ninja” marketing idea, a new online marketing method, or a powerful new closing technique and POW! We are off to the races! Well, at least for a short period of time, until the next shiny idea comes our way and we steer off course to chase that next

best thing.

The challenge with S.O.S is that many things get started, while few of them ever get finished. In addition to things not getting completed, precious time is wasted on the tangential item, technique, product, or service.

And how many of these shiny objects are truly beneficial for our businesses? Lack of focus and being overwhelmed can be paralyzing!

Now, just so you know that we are not picking on the creative-thinking business person, S.O.S is not just an affliction of entrepreneurs. This phenomenon crosses over to every industry.

For example, many people have started blogs and abandoned them almost as quickly! Why do they quit? They quit because they got tired of writing posts -- or worse, no one was reading the posts because they didn’t know how to market it to attract readers’ attention and drive traffic to their blog.

When we have so many very cool ideas coming our way, it’s a challenge to not get excited about them. After all, that’s what drives us, right?

So, what can you do to monetize? How can you continue to be energized by all the possibilities without robbing your business of your time, talents, and ultimate success?

Think strategically.

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Start with a vision, intention, goal, or plan, and make sure each tactic that you implement is tied to furthering your overall monetization strategy!

With any new idea, tactic, or tool that you’re presented with, you must stop and ask yourself, “Is this in line with my businesses vision, goal, and plan?” If it’s not, you must pass on the “opportunity,” or at least put it in a parking lot of good ideas to be evaluated later.

So get in the habit of asking yourself the following set of questions before implementing something new in your business: •Is this idea, concept, product, or service right for my business?

•Is this something my target market wants?

•If yes, are they willing to pay for it?

•Am I willing to invest what is needed to make it successful?

•Is there a return on investment for the time, money, energy, or resources I will spend?

•Do I have room on my plate to take this on?

•Do I have the resources to manage it or can I easily acquire them to make it a success?

•What can I remove from my plate to take this on?

There’s nothing wrong with loving innovation. You must constantly monetize in your business to make it successful! You just need to do it wisely and strategically to make sure that you don’t lose focus on what’s important.

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ymore info: Are you currently monetizing like the TOP 1%? Take the monetization quiz and find out now at www.HowToMonetize.net

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FtC business

THE POWER OF

KINDNESS

By Jesse Weinberg

Happiness researcher Sean Achor demonstrated through his extensive research that if you perform random acts of kindness for two minutes a day for twenty-one days, you can actually retrain your brain to be more positive. Studies such as his show that when your brain is more positive you are more likely to be creative, intelligent and productive. These attributes can spin into what we perceive as ‘quality of life’ attributes – job success, wealth, healthy relationships, and better health. This adage, that happiness breeds

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success, is counterintuitive to what Western society popularly perceives as the opposite, that success lends itself to happiness.

Kindness is a simple concept, yet so very impactful. It can make the world a better place by ending suffering at the hands of war, hunger, human rights violations, and injustice. It has the power to drastically improve our own well-being as well as that of our families, friends, acquaintances, and strangers. The very act of expressing graciousness to one another can make

us more empathetic of other people’s hardships. Within the workforce, kindness towards one another can inspire employees to be more productive and make businesses more profitable. And within our communities, kindness contributes to safer and cleaner schools and neighborhoods.

Does the paragraph above sound a bit dramatic? Pay attention to how kindness has the ability to impact your life. Observe those moments when someone does something unexpectedly kind for you. How

frequently does it happen? How does it make you feel? Does it transform your outlook on the day? I challenge you to commit a random act of kindness. Spend two minutes a day doing it for just three weeks. How does it make you feel? How does it make your recipients feel?

Bob Kerry once said, “Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly and most underrated agent in human change.” What a profound statement!

And yet it is the easiest thing in the world to execute. With very little time (even just two minutes a day) and very minimal effort we can transform a human being’s day, week, or even life. The return on investment is off the charts! How can something so simple and so easy have such a tremendous impact on others and ourselves?

Every act of kindness creates a ripple effect that spreads from person to person with no end in sight. Kindness is contagious like a disease in which the outcome is divinely beautiful. Jamil Zaki, Professor of Psychology at Stanford University and Director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab recently conducted a series of studies that observe how witnessing kindness inspires kindness, causing it to spread like a virus. He concludes that “by emphasizing empathypositive norms, we may be able to leverage the power of social influence to combat apathy and conflict in new ways.”

To start a movement of kindness we created Kindness & Co, Random Act of Kindness Kits. The kits empower an individual to start their own chain reaction of kindness. Each Kit includes a long list of fun and innovative ways in which the recipient can create their own acts of kindness. Because we found that

people increasingly value experiences over material things, Kindness Kits are our way of replacing consumerism in holiday or birthday gift-giving and replacing it with the truly honorable experience of spreading cheer in people’s lives.

Additionally, businesses and organizations are using Kindness Kits for employee gifts, thank yous, lead generation, and tokens of customer or employee appreciation, to name a few. While it seems inconceivable that benevolence has a place in today’s cutthroat, competitive, winner-takes-all business environment, even the most successful companies are recognizing its virtues. Billionaire and entrepreneur Mark Cuban was recently quoted saying “Nice is way undervalued right now. It’s one of the most valuable assets out there,” when asked about negotiating tips.

Instead of buying bland, typical gifts again this year for your friends and family, and acquaintances, how about saying and doing something more imaginative and creative that will make a bigger difference to both you and them. And rather than giving your employees a logo-emblazoned chotski that lacks any real value to them, give them the experience of kindness. Give a positive experience that makes the recipient happy and helps the world. In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you did, they will forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

Every act of kindness creates a ripple effect that spreads with no end in sight.

Let’s run with it!

Kindness is a simple concept, yet so very impactful. It can make the world a better place by ending suffering at the hands of war, hunger, human rights violations, and injustice. It has the power to drastically improve our own wellbeing as well as that of our families, friends, acquaintances, and strangers

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5 SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSES MAKING GLOBAL IMPACT FOR THE CONSCIOUS CONSUMER We live in a world where disposable items have become the norm, where the oceans and landfills are choking with a seemingly never-ending barrage of plastics and debilitating man-made rubbish. The fashion industry tempts and feeds us with the latest and greatest new looks each season, encouraging a large percentage of the population to dispose of perfectly good clothing. The planet has been showing irrefutable signs of this stress for some time, calling us to make changes and become responsible before the scales of natural balance irreparably tip. It’s clear that our attitudes and behaviours need to change. Supporting conscious businesses that have already started to take the lead in this direction is a great place to start making a difference.

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SASHA & ME

o-design label, Sasha An Australian based ec and organic recycled plastic bottles m fro e ad m ts ca d an use. What’s bedding for dogs ies are handmade in ho or & Me offers toys and ss ce ac d an ds be d sophisticate u cotton. Their beautiful, nic!. sashandme.com.a ge er all nno 0% 10 is T fibre more, their recycled PE

SEA TO SEE

Based in Spain and 100% hand made in Italy, this premium eyewear company makes its product from 100% recycled sea plastic.

They are ocean up-cycling at its finest.

Sustainability has been almost non-existent in the eyewear industry until now. www.sea2see.org

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ECOALF

Also making waves in up-cycling, this Spain based innovative clothing company makes over 100 fabrics from recycled products. They utilize everything from coffee, old tires and discarded fishing nets, to post industrial cottons and turn them into usable quality fabrics, yarns and other components for making clothing, accessories and shoes. #becausethereisnoplanetB ecoalf.com/us_en/

LSTN SOUND CO.

A U.S. based company that operates purposefully, LSTN handcrafts real wood into premium audio producing headphones and speakers. Not only is this company enhancing the way you listen to music, but their products also help to fund hearing restoration around the world. To date, LSTN has worked with Starkey Hearing Foundation to help 20,000 people hear in over ten different countries.

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BLOOM & GIVE

Working with small co-ops in India, this company produces contemporary designed artisan scarves, kitchen towels and bags. Like a gift that keeps on giving, Bloom & Give passes on 50% of its profits to girls’ education programs in India. www.bloomandgive.com

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HOHO…UH-OH…?

Looking for inspiration for that for that

special gift special someone?

of!

Inspiration and empowerment are things that everyone loves and needs more or So why not drop the mind block and the old paradigm of new socks, perfume, al, chocolates… and give a gift that will provide a whole year’s worth of origin practical and useful inspiration…a gift you can be sure will be always be appreciated and enjoyed. loved End 2016 on a positive note and make 2017 the year your friends, family, or a ones remember as being full of goodness and positivity, by gifting them with Face the Current Magazine! ription toMAGAZINE 124 year’s FACEsubsc the CURRENT

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