Jess Cerra’s story is one of resilience, grit, and community. Born and raised in Whitefish, Montana, Jess never saw herself as an athlete growing up. But after an unexpected VO2 max test in grad school revealed her Olympic-level potential, she found her way into cycling and triathlon—despite starting out in gym shorts and mismatched pedals. Her career took her from Xterra triathlons to professional road racing, overcoming serious health setbacks along the way.

Beyond racing, Jess co-founded The Last Best Ride, a gravel cycling event in Montana that not only brings riders together but also funds scholarships for local students. She’s also driving innovation at Alete Active Nutrition, shaping products built by athletes for athletes.

This episode dives into Jess’s journey from humble beginnings to pro cycling, entrepreneurship, and community impact—reminding us that determination, passion, and hard work can open doors we never imagined.

Get 20% off Alete Active Nutrition with code LIFEINMOTION20

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors.

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast
Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $50,093 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 248 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

What if your next vacation could change lives—including your own? In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Hill, founder of Hands Up Holidays, a travel company blending luxury experiences with meaningful volunteer opportunities. From helping build homes in South Africa to supporting wildlife rescues in Costa Rica, Christopher shares how his journey from law and investment banking led to creating trips that combine adventure, comfort, cultural immersion, and impact.

We explore the rise of family voluntourism, why giving back on vacation fosters unforgettable connections, and how small moments—like helping release sea turtles in Mexico or playing soccer with kids in Bali—can leave lasting impressions. Christopher also introduces Impact Destinations, a unique way for travelers to support local projects while enjoying one-of-a-kind experiences, like participating in a rhino relocation in Africa.

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling deeper, connecting authentically, and making a difference along the way, this episode is for you.

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors.

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast
Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $49,391 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 247 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

What if your next RV trip took you beyond crowded campgrounds and highway rest stops? In this episode of Life in Motion, Jeremy chats with Rob Case, co-founder of RV Overnights, a fast-growing platform that connects RV travelers with unique overnight stays at local businesses nationwide. From wineries and distilleries to farms and even a decommissioned missile silo, RV Overnights has it all.

Rob shares his own journey from backpacking and camping in New Jersey to discovering the comforts of RV life, and how those early “shakeout trips” inspired the platform’s mission. With over 1,100+ host locations across the U.S. and Canada, RV Overnights is redefining how RVers experience the road. Whether you’re brand new to RVing or a seasoned traveler looking for hidden gems, this conversation offers tips, stories, and inspiration for your next adventure.

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors.

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast
Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $49,391 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 246 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.