Jack Williams: The Himalayas, cancer and mountain leading in Snowdonia

The Outdoors Fix is a podcast to inspire you to make the outdoors a bigger part of your life. It’s hosted by Liv Bolton. My guest in this episode is mountain leader, hiker and trail runner Jack Williams. Jack’s outdoors life has had many different chapters. In his twenties, Jack was gripped by pursuing expeditions all around the world, including to the Himalayas and the Sahara Desert. He worked in hospitality and retail in between trips to finance them. But a few years ago, he found out he had testicular cancer. Going through that experience led to changes in his relationship with the outdoors and adventure goals. He’s now a qualified mountain leader, leading groups and courses in Snowdonia and he’s also focused on family, creating outdoor adventures with his two young sons. In the summer, I met up for a beautiful walk with Jack in Llangollen in North Wales, where he now lives. I was keen to hear all about his outdoors story but particularly how getting outside helped him cope with his illness as well as how he’s now shaping an adventurous life for his family in the UK. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Outdoors Fix and don’t forget to listen out for Jack’s tips and advice for those interested in becoming a mountain leader or making the outdoors a bigger part of your life! Also don’t miss the birdsong at the end of this podcast episode for a short, calming escape from your busy day. Liv x If you’re affected by any of the issues in this episode, there are links to help and support on The Outdoors Fix website. If would be fantastic if you could rate, review and subscribe to the podcast – it really helps other people discover it – and please feel free to spread the word to your family and friends. * You’ll find Jack on Instagram @jackwilliams.adventurer The Outdoors Fix is on Instagram and Facebook @theoutdoorsfix * The Outdoors Fix is a podcast produced and hosted by Liv Bolton @liv_outsideuk This episode of The Outdoors Fix was supported by outdoor footwear brand Merrell. Merrell is launching a year-long campaign called #StepFurther to encourage people from all walks of life to get outdoors on a micro-adventure to experience the benefits for both their physical and mental health.