Traveling is often seen as a way to escape, to find adventure, and to discover the world beyond our familiar surroundings. In the latest episode of Journey with Jake, we welcome Autumn Carolynn, a passionate traveler and author who has turned her experiences into a compelling narrative in her book Traveling in Wonder. With a goal to explore 30 countries before the age of 30, Autumn fulfilled this dream while pursuing her creative ambitions in travel photography and writing.
Autumn’s journey began amidst the artful streets of Canterbury, England, where she studied English literature and creative writing. This experience solidified her love for exploration, allowing her to travel extensively through Europe during her time as a student. Through her storytelling, Autumn illustrates the duality of travel — the thrill of adventure alongside the occasional misadventures that come with it.
As a flight attendant, Autumn had the unique opportunity to leverage her profession to fulfill her travel goals. The skies became her highways, and her job opened doors to destinations she might not otherwise have visited. While the work was demanding and involved rigorous training, it was also incredibly rewarding — allowing her to create lasting memories and friendships during layovers and flights. Autumn shares her favorite experiences, from meeting celebrities like Blink-182 to facing alarming incidents.
The anecdote of her kiss beneath the Eiffel Tower stands out as a poignant moment in her travels. Autumn recounts her encounter with a French Canadian, emphasizing the beauty of such intimate memories that do not necessarily need to be shared publicly to be cherished. She encapsulates the essence of travel as a series of connections — with people, places, and even fleeting moments.
What truly shines in Autumn’s narrative is her love for Norway. With fjords that leave visitors breathless, she describes a deep, almost spiritual connection to a place that has captured her heart repeatedly. Each visit to Norway added layers to her experiences, prompting her to consider living there and further nurturing her passion for photography and adventure.
Autumn’s insights into the challenges of running a travel photography business—balancing the creative process with the demands of marketing and logistics—speak to many creators. She highlights the emotional toll of sustained travel and the juggling act of maintaining a personal life, finances, and artistic pursuits.
As part of her overarching journey, Autumn is currently working on a second book, “40 Under 40,” weaving lessons from her adventures and artistic growth. She highlights the importance of being present, relishing raw experiences rather than fixating on capturing the perfect photo.
The episode concludes with a heartfelt reflection on what adventure truly means, recognizing it not just as far-flung destinations, but also the simple act of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Autumn Carolyn invites listeners to seize their moments of adventure, no matter how big or small. Her infectious spirit illuminates the transformative power of travel, inspiring us all to embark on our journeys with open hearts and minds.
