The Osborne Adventure Podcast is an inside look into our World Record setting sailing circumnavigation to raise Down syndrome awareness. Join us each week as we share an intimate look into our unique lifestyle, our views on adventure parenting, and the beauty and challenges of raising a child with Down syndrome.
Whether you're an avid sailor, an individual with Down syndrome, a parent of a child with special needs, or simply curious about life on the high seas we promise to inspire, educate, and ignite a spirit of adventure within you.
Subscribe to the Osborne Adventure Podcast!
If you prefer, you can also listen to the Osborne Adventure podcast on SPOTIFY or APPLE PODCASTS.
JOIN US FOR A New episode every thursday!
Behind the Lens: Matt Knighton on the Volvo Ocean Race and Life at Sea - Ep. 39
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Matt Knighton, director, adventure photographer, and award-winning filmmaker. Matt shares his experiences as the Onboard Reporter for Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing during their winning 2014-2015 Volvo Ocean Race. He reflects on what it was like to race around the world on a Volvo 65, what it means to be a sailor, and offers candid insights into our upcoming expedition.
From the intensity of offshore racing to the human dynamics that define success at sea, this episode dives into the grit, storytelling, and reality of life at sea.
Join us for an honest, unexpected, and engaging conversation about the intersection of sailing, adventure, and the stories that shape us.
Unfiltered: Parenting and Level 3 Autism - Ep. 38
On this episode of The Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I sit down with Joy and Bobby, parents to Allanah, a child with level 3 autism and additional diagnoses. They share an unfiltered look at their daily reality—the struggles, the exhaustion, and their unwavering fight to ensure Allanah has the best possible life. Their journey is a testament to the lengths parents go to for their children. It’s an honest conversation about the challenges that don’t always have easy answers. Through it all, they remain dedicated, constantly pushing forward because of their love and unwavering commitment.
Shaped by the Journey: My Father’s Perspective on the Adventure Ahead - Ep. 37
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I continue our conversation with my dad, diving into the moments, challenges, and lessons that have shaped us as a family and made this expedition possible. We reminisce about my childhood and the many adventures that followed, reflecting on how those experiences prepared us for the journey ahead. Along the way, we explore how life’s experiences shape our perspectives on time, family, and what truly matters. Through it all, my dad offers insights in the way only he can, seeing life from an angle that makes us pause and reflect. This episode isn’t just about the past. It is about the foundation that makes us who we are and why we take on challenges others might shy away from.
Why is this so damn hard? - Ep. 36
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, I’m taking you on a real, raw journey through the ups and downs of planning this expedition—one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Being a parent is tough, but raising a child with special needs brings its own set of challenges. Adding a global voyage to the mix? That’s a whole new level. We’re not here to sugarcoat things or only share the happy moments—we’re here to share the truth. The good, the bad, and everything in between. Life isn’t always picture-perfect, and this adventure is no exception. So, join me as I open up about the struggles, the lessons I’ve learned, and why, even when it’s hard, we keep pushing forward.
SeaWorld: A Whale Trainer’s Untold Story - Ep. 35
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we sit down with my dad to talk about Ren and our expedition—but the conversation takes an unexpected turn into his career as a whale trainer at SeaWorld in the 1970s. It was an era of firsts, discovery, and working with incredible animals in ways few people ever have. We talk about what it was like to pioneer marine mammal training, SeaWorld’s early role in conservation, and being part of something that helped change how the world saw whales. This is part 1 of a fascinating conversation offering a rare glimpse into a world most people will never hear about, straight from someone who lived it.
A Grandmother’s View: Family, Adventure, and the Journey Ahead - Ep. 34
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we sit down with someone who has been part of this journey from the very beginning—Val’s mom. From living with her when we moved from San Diego to the role she’s played in shaping our family, she has been a constant source of support and love. We talk about the adventure ahead, what it means to take on something this big as a family, and how she feels watching us prepare to sail around the world. There’s laughter, a few tears, and plenty of honest conversation about family, dreams, and the waves that carry us forward.
Navigating Social Media as Parents on a Mission - Ep. 33
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we explore balancing our family’s privacy with sharing our story. Our global sailing expedition often puts the spotlight on our children—but where do we draw the line? We’ll share how we navigate social media and the internet, the steps we take to keep their lives private, and how we stay focused on what matters most. Join us for an honest conversation about parenting in the digital age and honoring both our mission and our kids’ future.
Fruit, Fun, and a 10-Year-Old’s Take on Adventure - Ep. 32
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, I’m joined by my 10-year-old son, Roake, for a hilariously fun and completely unscripted conversation. Between his quick, excited answers about the trip and his running commentary on his love of fruit, there are plenty of one-word responses like “no” that remind us he’s a 10-year-old through and through. This episode is equal parts insight and laughter. Take a glimpse through the eyes of a 10-year-old into what it looks like to leave everything behind and embark on a global sailing expedition.
From Land to Sea - Getting Our Kids Ready for Life Aboard - Ep. 31
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I share what it will look like to homeschool our kids while sailing around the world. Over the last few years, we’ve transitioned from public school to homeschooling, and it’s been quite an adventure! With plenty of questions—and some concerns—about how sailing will affect our kids’ education, we’re tackling it head-on. Join us as we reflect on our homeschooling experiences, share our plan while on the boat, and show how learning can be a family adventure like no other.
Class is in Session – Education on our Sailing Expedition - Ep. 30
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I share what it will look like to homeschool our kids while sailing around the world. Over the last few years, we’ve transitioned from public school to homeschooling, and it’s been quite an adventure! With plenty of questions—and some concerns—about how sailing will affect our kids’ education, we’re tackling it head-on. Join us as we reflect on our homeschooling experiences, share our plan while on the boat, and show how learning can be a family adventure like no other.
All Hands On Deck - Ready, Set, Build! - Ep. 29
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I take a moment to dive into the final big step before our expedition—our upcoming move to British Columbia. After two and a half years of preparation, we are about to undertake one of the biggest milestones of hauling Salome out of the water for her refit. We share what it will take to get the boat ready, the excitement of this next chapter, and the major changes it means for our family. It’s exhilarating, it’s daunting, and it’s all part of the adventure. Join us as we reflect on the journey and the road ahead.
Raising Ren - A Down Syndrome Parenting Adventure - Ep. 28
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we dive into the joy, humor, and heartfelt moments of raising a child with Down syndrome. Through stories and reflections, we share what life is really like parenting Ren—from the challenges to the unexpected moments that keep us smiling. It’s an honest and lighthearted look at our family life and the lessons we’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re a parent, an adventurer, or simply curious, this episode promises to inspire and uplift. Join us for a glimpse into the beautifully unique adventure of raising Ren.
Through the Chaos: Grief, Guilt, & Moving Forward - Ep. 27
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I open up about 2024 being one of the most difficult years of our lives. In February, Val lost her dad, and the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, I lost my mom unexpectedly. While planning a global expedition, we’ve found ourselves trying to balance the death of our parents, the guilt of leaving family behind, and the relentless pace of our lives as we work to make this expedition happen. Join us as we share the importance of just continuing to move forward, even when life feels impossible, and the lessons we learned about time, family, and navigating loss.
From Oceans to Classrooms: Announcing Our Docuseries - Ep. 26
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we’re excited to announce our weekly educational docuseries Adventure Without Boundaries coming in the fall of 2025. The series will be created specifically for special needs classrooms and it will bring the excitement of our global sailing expedition straight to students around the world! It will follow our son Ren (10), a young adventurer with Down syndrome, as he embarks on a journey like no other.
Join us behind the scenes of this amazing project, sharing the inspiration, the mission, and what it means to create something that connects so many people with the adventure of a lifetime. Join us as we explore the heart of this series and what it will bring to classrooms and families everywhere.
Hard Truths & High Risks: An Interview with Dr. Chris David - Ep. 25
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I sit down with Dr. Chris David, Emergency Department Medical Director and former Air Force emergency medicine physician. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Dr. David dives into his biggest concerns about our expedition. Together, we explore the fine line between adventure and danger, offering a candid and unfiltered look at the risks and realities we’ll face at sea. Whether you’re drawn to tales of exploration or intrigued by emergency medicine, this episode will leave you thinking long after it’s over.
A Moment for Family
Life doesn’t always follow the course we chart, and this week we’re pausing the podcast to face one of life’s most difficult moments. Our family is navigating a deeply personal time as we support each other through this challenge.
The expedition is still moving forward, and while this is a painful part of the journey, it reminds us of the strength and purpose that come from living life fully.
Thank you for your understanding and patience. We’ll be back next Thursday, ready to share more stories and adventures with you.
Safety, Survival, and the Sea - An interview with Kevin Garcia - Ep. 24
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, I’m joined by Kevin Garcia, a retired United States Coast Guard helicopter rescue pilot. Kevin shares his journey from flight school to high-stakes marine rescues. We dive into some of the more dangerous aspects of boating, drawing on Kevin’s firsthand experiences. As we talk, Kevin shares his perspective and concerns for our expedition, offering insights on the risks involved, the preparations needed, and the mindset this undertaking will demand. Join us for an episode filled with adventure, caution, and the wisdom of a seasoned rescue pilot who has dedicated his life to bringing people home safely.
On the Edge: Family, Refit, and Letting Go - Ep. 23
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, Val and I sit down to plunge headfirst into the latest updates on our countdown to setting sail. We cover everything from our refit timeline and the current projects underway to key dates and responsibilities as we prepare for our global expedition. We’ll take you behind the scenes of our recent trip to the Annapolis Boat Show, share insights on new partnerships, and reveal what it’s like to be selling our home and just about everything we own. We also share updates on the kids, the hurdles our family has to overcome, and the many sacrifices we’re making to make this expedition possible. Join us as we pull back the curtain on what it takes to make this dream happen.
The Heart of Salome: An Interview with Lou & Judy - Ep. 22
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, we invite you to sit around the table with us for an intimate, long-form conversation with Lou and Judy, the incredible couple behind the foundation of our expedition, Salome. From the start, Lou and Judy believed in us and, through unimaginable kindness, made the purchase and refit of Salome possible. Most importantly, they have become our dearest friends in the process. Join us as Lou shares the moment he first stepped aboard Salome and, despite knowing the years it would take to get her back on the water, felt he was home. Judy recounts her journey, from a childhood shaped by the sea's embrace to her connection with Lou, sparked by an unforgettable experience on Salome.
Over shared stories and laughter, they open up about why they so deeply believe in our mission. This episode offers a warm, unfiltered look at two people who have become a cornerstone of Osborne Adventure. Join us for stories of belief, friendship, and the unbreakable bonds forged through a shared dream.
Highs, Lows, and a Treehouse Conversation: An Interview with Jenn Taylor - Ep. 21
On this episode of the Osborne Adventure Podcast, I’m joined by Jenn Taylor, an airline pilot and epic rock climber who’s also one of my oldest friends. We’ve shared many adventures over the years, but her journey parenting Ford, a bright and challenging child with ADHD and a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile, stands out as truly remarkable. PDA is a lesser-known part of the autism spectrum, where children intensely avoid everyday demands, often due to anxiety. PDA often presents identically to Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).
Recorded in a treehouse in Washington's temperate rainforest, we talk about the highs and lows of life with kids who don’t fit into neat boxes. Jenn shares insights into our expedition and how her experiences have shaped her views on life, adventure, and moving forward in the face of uncertainty.
Join us for an honest, personal, and often humorous look at how two old friends, each navigating parenting, adventure, and life, have found support in each other.