Polar Explorer Ann Bancroft

Dream, network, push the vision forward- pretty soon things fall in line. 

During this episode of the Rebel and Be Well Podcast we had the fortune of interviewing polar explorer Ann Bancroft. Not only a renowned adventurer, but one of the world's preeminent polar explorers and an internationally recognized leader who is dedicated to inspiring women and girls around the world to unleash the power of their dreams. Through her various roles as an explorer, educator, sought-after speaker and philanthropist, Ann believes that by sharing stories related to her dreams of outdoor adventure, she can help inspire a global audience to pursue their individual dreams.

Ann's teamwork and leadership skills have undergone severe tests during her polar expeditions and provided her with opportunities to shatter female stereotypes. The tenacity and courage that define her character have earned Ann worldwide recognition as one of today's most influential role models for women and girls. She has been named among Glamour magazine's "Women of the Year" (2001); featured in the book Remarkable Women of the Twentieth Century (1998); inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame (1995); named Ms. magazine's "Woman of the Year" (1987); and honored with numerous other awards for her accomplishments.

Ann's passion for exploring our natural world is matched by her enthusiasm for teaching children. After earning a bachelor of science degree in physical education from the University of Oregon, Ann taught physical and special education in Minneapolis and Saint Paul and coached various high school sports. Ann founded the Ann Bancroft Foundation (ABF) in 1991 to support the educational mission of the historic all-women's Antarctic polar expedition in 1993. 

On this episode we talk about discovering passion and purpose. Ann discusses how finding greater purpose, and a broader mission than your own ambition, is the true game changer and catalyst for reaching remarkable goals. 

We asked Ann: What is the journey of finding and maintaining purpose in life? Share with us decisions that you'll never forget. Where are the lessons that add to the richness of life? What else we covered:

- Moments of truth

- Batting isolation and ambiguity when we are unable to plan and find security

- Using nature as the classroom to learn and find your way- expediting the learning process

- How community operates as a true pillar in health

- Never stop doing the basics

- Do your homework, and always come prepared

- Fire Round - books, what we need more of in the world, new things to try, sitting in the gray and personality traits  

- One simple tool to help maintain resilience

"When you cast your net, you do catch a lot of wonderful fish who will have the same passion for what you want to do, and they join in." - Ann Bancroft, Author, Polar Explorer, and ABF Founder

Resources

- Get more information about Ann Bancroft's Foundation, and it's life-changing programs below:

https://www.annbancroftfoundation.org/

- Meet and learn from Ann in-person winter 2022 during her keynote at February Love Work retreat- open to all. The event is hosted in conjunction with SEB (Anytime Fitness): https://thepointretreats.com/program-retreat/504

Experiences

• Cold Plunge
• Dog Sledding
• Wim Hof Breathwork
• Massages & Meditation
• Ice Bar at Chuck Runyon's Cabin

Retreat Objectives

• Deepen understanding of self through personal and professional assessments & activities.
• Learn how to apply the 4 P’s of LoveWork into life and work.
• Understand how to develop a transformative mindset that can allow you to change for the better.
• Discover the beauty and joy of purpose, giving and receiving.
• Embrace the fun, adventure, and play in trying something new.
• Space and time for self-care, self-compassion and self-love.
• Create a community that will support and encourage one another during our retreat and after our time together.