Amanda and Van Curaza are dedicated to helping others heal through connection and the ocean. As leaders of Operation Surf, they provide life-changing experiences for veterans, active-duty special operations forces, and their spouses, restoring hope, renewing purpose, and revitalizing community.

Amanda, an accomplished entrepreneur, has spent 15 years as Executive Director of Operation Surf, transforming it into a nationally recognized organization. Specializing in strategic growth, leadership, program design, and fundraising, she is passionate about supporting the teams that make organizations thrive, as well as the individuals they serve.

Van, a former professional surfer with over 45 years of experience, founded Operation Surf to share the healing power of surfing. Having overcome personal struggles, he found strength in the ocean and now helps others do the same. He also runs Van Curaza Surf School, offering camps, lessons, and retreats for all ages.

The Curazas' work has been featured in ESPN, People Magazine, Resurface on Netflix, Southwest Airlines Spirit Magazine, and several research studies.

Through their own journeys, they inspire others to heal and grow through connection, nature, and the ocean.

https://operationsurf.org/

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Can't get enough of the Journey On Podcast & it's guests? Here are two more ways to engage with them.

Find exclusive educational content from previous podcast guests which include webinars, course and more: https://courses.warwickschillercom

If you want to meet your favorite podcast guest in person, you can attend our annual Journey On Podcast Summit either in person or via live stream: https://summit.warwickschiller.com

Become a Patreon Member today! Get access to podcast bonus segments, ask questions to podcast guests, and even suggest future podcast guests while supporting Warwick: https://www.patreon.com/journeyonpodcast

Warwick has over 900 Online Training Videos that are designed to create a relaxed, connected, and skilled equine partner. Start your horse training journey today!
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Erik Cooper is a 40-year-old professional adventurist and
passionate equestrian, originally from a horse farm in the heart of
Middle America. With a thirst for exploration, Erik has traveled to
some of the world's most remote regions, including Mongolia and
Patagonia, where he has cultivated deep, lasting friendships with
nomads in Mongolia and remote farm owners in Argentina. These
relationships form the foundation of his immersive travel
experiences through Erik Cooper Adventures, allowing riders to
embark on truly authentic, emotional journeys through these
unique landscapes, connecting with both the people and the
animals that call them home.

In addition to his role as an adventure guide, Erik leads
operations for The Equestrianists, the UK company behind the
world’s longest and most challenging horse races – the Mongol
and Gaucho Derbies. His daily responsibilities include planning
races and academies, interviewing riders, and overseeing all
aspects of brand marketing. Through his work, Erik combines his
love for horses, exploration, and adventure with his expertise in
operations, offering unparalleled experiences to equestrians
around the world.

Support the show

Can't get enough of the Journey On Podcast & it's guests? Here are two more ways to engage with them.

Find exclusive educational content from previous podcast guests which include webinars, course and more: https://courses.warwickschillercom

If you want to meet your favorite podcast guest in person, you can attend our annual Journey On Podcast Summit either in person or via live stream: https://summit.warwickschiller.com

Become a Patreon Member today! Get access to podcast bonus segments, ask questions to podcast guests, and even suggest future podcast guests while supporting Warwick: https://www.patreon.com/journeyonpodcast

Warwick has over 900 Online Training Videos that are designed to create a relaxed, connected, and skilled equine partner. Start your horse training journey today!
https://videos.warwickschiller.com/

Check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Warwickschillerfanpage

Watch hundreds of free Youtube Videos: https://www.youtube.com/warwickschiller

Follow us on Instagram: @warwickschiller

Kate Pilcher is the founder of Globetrotting, a travel agency offering horse riding holidays and unique horse cultural experiences all around the world. Kate discovered this remarkable form of travel at age 25, when she ran away from her business, her boyfriend Steven, and her mortgage in pursuit of the magic that comes with exploring new, wild places in the saddle. She worked as a horse riding guide in Kenya and Argentina, and learnt conversational Kiswahili and Spanish. When she finally returned home, Globetrotting was born. Kate considers it her true calling to share the life-changing experience of Globetrotting with as many people as possible. She and Steven - now her husband - live on Australia’s Sunshine Coast with their three girls, who often join them on guided Globetrotting rides, and an ever-growing herd of horses.

https://www.globetrotting.com.au/

Support the show

Can't get enough of the Journey On Podcast & it's guests? Here are two more ways to engage with them.

Find exclusive educational content from previous podcast guests which include webinars, course and more: https://courses.warwickschillercom

If you want to meet your favorite podcast guest in person, you can attend our annual Journey On Podcast Summit either in person or via live stream: https://summit.warwickschiller.com

Become a Patreon Member today! Get access to podcast bonus segments, ask questions to podcast guests, and even suggest future podcast guests while supporting Warwick: https://www.patreon.com/journeyonpodcast

Warwick has over 900 Online Training Videos that are designed to create a relaxed, connected, and skilled equine partner. Start your horse training journey today!
https://videos.warwickschiller.com/

Check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Warwickschillerfanpage

Watch hundreds of free Youtube Videos: https://www.youtube.com/warwickschiller

Follow us on Instagram: @warwickschiller