Episode 149: Jon’s Dad Hikes the King’s Trail with Bob Delaney
“All of my decisions were based on I have this opportunity now, and that’s it.”
This week, we explore how travel and adventure can become lifelong companions, shaping our experiences across every stage of life. Our guest, Bob Delaney—trail name "Jon's Dad"—joins us from Columbus, Ohio, to share his remarkable journey. Now in his early sixties, Bob recently completed a 300-mile thru-hike along Sweden's Kungsleden, known as The King’s Trail, a 30-day adventure he gifted himself in retirement. From childhood explorations to fatherhood and now into retirement, Bob’s passion for adventure has been woven into every chapter of his life. Tune in to hear his inspiring story.
Bob also discusses:
1:30 - His experience on the Kungsleden
5:00 - Row boats along the trail
10:00 - Geographic highlights on the hike
11:40 - Why he chose to hike Kungsleden
14:15 - Early experiences that led him to Kungsleden
16:00 - When he decided to do this trip
17:20 - Struggles along the trail
19:50 - Growth he experienced during the adventure
23:00 - His book about his experience on the Kungsleden
26:00 - Where his adventure spirit started
28:30 - His early years in Sweden
32:00 - Moments in Sweden that made him want to do bigger adventures
33:30 - How he got his trail name
37:20 - How it feels to reverse the cycle of his relationship with his son
40:20 - How their relationship has evolved over time
43:00 - What it was like going on an adventure for himself
45:30 - Advice for listeners
47:00 - Who is going to play him in a Hollywood movie about his life
You can learn more about Bob and his adventures by following him on Instagram @jonsdadhikes and YouTube.
Be sure to pick up a copy of his book Jon's Dad Hikes: Kungsleden: The Guide to Hiking The King's Trail in Sweden detailing his experience available on Amazon.
See below for photos Bob shared from his adventures.
Watch the Full Behind The Scenes Episode
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