Ray Zahab is a Canadian Explorer, ultra distance runner and Founder of the non-profit impossible2Possible. A recent recipient of the Meritorious Service Cross of Canada, Ray is an Explorer in Residence of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. In 2015 Canadian Geographic recognized Ray as one of Canada’s Top Explorers. He has ran almost 20,000km across the world’s deserts, and performed unsupported expeditions in some of the coldest places on the planet.  He and family live in Chelsea, Quebec.In this episode we talk about:How Ray decided to quit smoking at the age of 30 and take up adventure sportsThe personal revelations he received after winning his first ultra, the Yukon Ultra (100 miler)Why he loves to explore the most extreme climates on the planet at the most extreme times of yearHis passion for youth, commitment to involving schools in his expeditions, and his charityThe wisdom and perspective he brings as he faces a recent diagnosis of cancerWhat’s coming up next including a new book and new expeditions!Ray’s buoyancy and passion for life and what he gets to do with his are readily apparent as you listen to him talk.Connect with Ray:Facebook: ray.zahabInstagram: @rayzahabWebsite: rayzahab.comimpossibe2PossibleKapik1 CoffeeConnect with Carolyn & Kim:Kim's InstagramKim's FacebookCarolyn's InstagramCarolyn's FacebookCarolyn's website (sign up for her free weekly newsletter on the homepage)We love hearing from you! Connect with us on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe or leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.