Connecting Roads: The Road to the Unknown

In this episode of Road to the Unknown, Dylan and Mo sit down with Andre Houssney, founder of Jacob Springs Farm, and his wife, Alexa Williams, to discuss the transformative power of regenerative agriculture. Located in Boulder, Colorado, Jacob Springs Farm is more than just a place for grass-fed proteins and heirloom grains—it’s a thriving ecosystem that fosters community and sustainability.

Andre shares his childhood experiences growing up in Lebanon during civil unrest, which instilled a deep appreciation for food security and community. His journey in regenerative farming is both inspiring and educational, offering insights into soil fertility, biodiversity, and how his team works to create closed-loop systems that turn waste into resources.

Alexa adds to the conversation by discussing her health journey and how it led her to investigate the hidden toxins in everyday products, particularly mattresses. Her work focuses on providing cleaner, healthier sleep solutions through her family's business, which aligns with their commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Throughout the episode, we explore how their personal stories intertwine with a mission to build resilient communities through food, agriculture, and health. We also discuss milk shares, the economics of farming, and how they integrate diverse food cultures into their farm’s operations.

Key Topics:

• The principles of regenerative farming and why biodiversity and soil health matter
• Andre's journey from Lebanon to Boulder, and how his early experiences shaped his passion for food security
• How Jacob Springs Farm creates a self-sustaining, integrated food system
• Alexa’s investigation into toxic chemicals in mattresses and her quest to bring clean, sustainable sleep to consumers
• The importance of community in regenerative farming and local food systems

This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone interested in sustainable living, regenerative agriculture, and building stronger communities. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of farming!

In this episode of The Road to the Unknown, we sit down with Bill Graf, a former finance professional who left his successful career in mergers and acquisitions to pursue a life of adventure and entrepreneurship. Bill shares his remarkable story of transitioning from a high-powered job in private equity to founding Onda, a boutique hotel brand in Costa Rica that’s redefining hospitality for digital nomads and slow travelers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to Bill Graf:
  Bill shares his background, from growing up in Madison, Wisconsin, to his career in finance and the pivotal moment when he decided to quit his job and embark on a year-long journey that changed his life.
• The Genesis of Onda:
  Bill recounts the early days of Onda, including the challenges of finding and renovating their first hotel in Playa Grande, Costa Rica, and how his finance background helped him navigate the complexities of international real estate.
• Building a Community-Focused Hotel:
  Unlike traditional hotels, Onda is designed as a community hub, catering to both locals and travelers. Bill explains how this unique approach has become a key differentiator for Onda in the competitive hospitality market.
• Catering to Digital Nomads and Slow Travelers:
  Learn how Onda targets digital nomads and slow travelers by offering flexible accommodations, reliable Wi-Fi, and a strong sense of community, blending the best aspects of hostels and boutique hotels.
• Navigating Low Season with Whole Hotel Buyouts:
  Bill shares the innovative strategies Onda uses to maintain occupancy during Costa Rica’s low season, including offering the entire property for group buyouts, from wellness retreats to family reunions.
• The Adventure of Scuba Diving:
  Bill’s passion for scuba diving is explored, highlighting some of his favorite diving spots around the world, including the breathtaking Cocos Island off the coast of Costa Rica.
• Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
  Bill’s message to listeners dreaming of starting their own business or diving deeper into the world of travel: “Quit your job, take the leap, and just do it.”

Connect with Bill Graf and Onda:

• Onda on Instagram: @findyouroanda
• Bill Graf on Instagram: @Billygoat_Graf
• Bill Graf on LinkedIn: Bill Graf

Listen Now:
Tune in to hear Bill Graf’s inspiring journey from Wall Street to the beaches of Costa Rica, where he’s building a new kind of hotel experience that’s all about community and adventure.

In this podcast episode, Christina, the owner of Colorado Retreat Co and The Steel Horse Inn, shares her experience and insights in the realm of retreats and event production. With a background in events and a passion for creating transformative experiences, Christina emphasizes the power of community and memories that are forged through these immersive encounters. She talks about the importance of finding a unique venue rooted in nature. Christina also highlights the significance of having a space that allows guests to immerse themselves in a multi-day experience, promoting a deeper, more intimate retreat experience.
Property: https://thecoloradoretreat.co/
Location: Villa Grove, Colorado
Christina Christian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinachristian/

Join Morgan Fiorino AKA Mo, on an exhilarating journey as she embarks into the heart of the wilderness this summer. In this episode, Mo shares with us how she sees experience design, an incredible realm of outdoor hospitality, and focuses on transformational backpacking experiences. Discover the transformative power of wilderness exploration as Mo delves into the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the deep connection she formed with nature.

In this episode of Road to the Unknown, Dylan and Mo sit down with Kaben Clauson, co-founder and CEO of Base, a modern social club dedicated to building meaningful, in-person connections in a digital-first world. Founded in 2023, Base is already reshaping how people in cities like Miami, Chicago, and soon Austin and NYC, are finding their “tribe” through curated, small-group dinners and immersive experiences.

Kaben shares the story behind Base, which grew from his own experiences living in diverse communities—from South Africa to Alaska—and his belief in the power of human connection. As technology pushes us further apart, Base uses it to help people forge deeper relationships across industries and backgrounds.

In this conversation, we explore:

• Kaben’s journey from tech entrepreneur to community builder, and how Base aims to address the loneliness epidemic in large cities
• How Base uses small, carefully matched gatherings to foster genuine connections and cross-industry collaboration
• The challenges and rewards of creating a scalable social club model in today’s rapidly changing world
• The role of technology in enhancing, not replacing, human relationships

Join us as we dive into Kaben’s mission to make cities feel smaller and more connected, one dinner at a time. For anyone passionate about community building, tackling loneliness, or exploring innovative ways to connect, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Instagram: @base.irl
Website: base.club