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In this week’s video, Pelton straddles the line between veteran journalist and adventurer.

He shares his unconventional journey into the media spotlight and critiques modern journalism, arguing the traditional definition has become “blurred.” Unlike classic journalists who report with detachment, Pelton is as much the story as the reporter.

Skipping the conventional path of journalism school and internships, he began as a copywriter at 17 and honed his craft through expeditions and raw field experience. His first journalism assignment was documenting the Camel Trophy, which led to work in Soldier of Fortune and eventually books. After 9/11, CNN, National Geographic, and Discovery sent him to Afghanistan, where he delivered the now-famous John Walker Lindh interview. He later worked in Iraq for ABC Investigative and CBS’s 60 Minutes, but quickly abandoned the “embedded” model to pursue unfiltered stories—including mass graves he discovered while crisscrossing Iraq in a red Bentley.

Pelton dismisses the romanticized lone reporter image. In reality, editors and producers often reshape stories to fit pre-decided narratives. He’s particularly critical of “rooftop journalism,” where reporters tethered to the military deliver what he calls “basically PR.” His style demands living with all sides, venturing into conflict zones, and reporting firsthand—even when it challenges his sources. Though often labeled a “Gonzo journalist,” he rejects the term, insisting his focus is truth, not spectacle.

A key theme is the power of narrative and the danger of misinformation. Pelton argues the flood of war coverage since 9/11 created a “collective PTSD” in America, fostering paranoia that politicians and media exploit. Fear once aimed at terrorists is now weaponized against migrants and other groups. In this landscape, storyline trumps fact, and social media amplifies it into a barrage of “bullets” fired between opposing camps.

Journalism, he laments, should strip away hysteria and provide nuance. Instead, it’s driven by clickbait economics. True reporting is expensive—covering a war properly can cost tens of thousands, while shaky phone footage costs nothing. It’s why Pelton calls journalism a “dying profession.”

His closing lesson: “always go out of the bubble.” Firsthand experience, adaptability, and curiosit

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.

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In this episode, Reza Allahbakhshi and Robert Young Pelton unpack the “lessons learned” behind The World’s Most Dangerous Places.

The real challenge isn’t landscapes or weapons—it’s people. From customs officials to taxi drivers, soldiers at checkpoints to warlords in conflict zones, survival comes down to reading signals, understanding motivations, and finding common ground.

“You start off focusing on places, and then you realize—it’s about situations.”

Everyday Situations, Different Rules

Every encounter—boarding a plane, clearing customs, hailing a cab—can be a threat or an opportunity. A savvy traveler adapts quickly, knowing when to pass through quietly and when to build rapport.
“At customs, you don’t need friends. Just answer and move.”

With taxi drivers, however, curiosity and respect can turn a fare into an ally.
“Ask his name. Ask how many kids he has. Suddenly, you’re not just a fare—you’re a person.”

The Universal Commonality

At the heart of these interactions is a simple truth: people want something—respect, money, recognition, connection. Success lies in showing you’re not a threat but an opportunity.
“The basic commonality is understanding what that person can get from you that benefits him.”

Checkpoints and Soldiers

Encounters with armed men require delicacy. Soldiers may be nervous or unpredictable, but respect defuses tension.
“Don’t make them feel small. If they’re holding the gun, let them have the stage.”

Warlords, Fixers, and Power Brokers

Negotiating with those who hold power—warlords, gang leaders, brokers—demands humility and timing. Knowing when to listen, speak, or stay silent can be life-saving.
“You’re always bringing something into their lives. The question is—are you a gift or a threat?”

The Role of Curiosity

One recurring theme: ask questions. Genuine interest creates bonds that protect more than money or credentials.
“Once you ask his name and how many kids he has, in most situations, he’ll start protecting you.”

Adapting Without Losing Yourself

The balance lies between arrogance and naiveté. Travelers must adapt to local rules without abandoning integrity.
“You’re going to be viewed as a tourist. It doesn’t matter how grizzled you think y

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.

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Jason Florio grew up in London with a fascination for skateboarding and being a rebel. Early exposure to photojournalism and adventurous literature shaped his worldview, leading him to see photography not just as art, but as a tool for truth-telling in places where truth is hidden.

First Steps into Photography

Florio moved to Texas and began as an assistant in the commercial photography world but quickly felt the pull toward photojournalism and documentary work. The shift was fueled by a desire to tell human-centered stories rather than stage-managed campaigns.

India: The Turning Point

His first major assignment in India with writer Pepe Escobar —covering stories for a Brazilian newspaper. This experience changed the trajectory of his career. The country’s rich culture, along with personal relationships built there, taught him the importance of trust and patience in gaining access to authentic moments.

Crossing into Conflict Zones

Florio’s curiosity led him into war zones in Somalia, Libya, and Afghanistan. Each conflict brought its own hazards: navigating hostile checkpoints, avoiding mines, and managing the tension between documenting violence and respecting those affected by it.

His next journey was to visit the taliban in Afghanistan. Not a popular or welcoming place. Again fascinated by the people and culture he then decided to sneak into the Panjshir Valley to meet legendary Afghan commander Ahmed Shah Massoud .

Florio made it in during August of 2001 and explored a different seeminly peaceful part of Afghanistan, but upon his return to New York in September, he would realize that war had come to him. On September 10.Massoud was assassinated by two journalists using a hidden bomb in their camera.

Living in Greenwich Village Florio's agent rang him and asked if he could get down to the World Trade Center. Jason arrived as the buildings began to fall. What happened next were a series of stunning photos of America's worst attack and the people affected.

Jason went on to a high profile career shooting for major publications and still following his own dream. In Part One he shares his motivation with Pelton and explores his motivation for capturing images. Many of them in museums and art galleries around the world.

His

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.

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Robert Young Pelton sits down with Enrique “Ric” Prado, a decorated CIA officer whose covert work shaped decades of U.S. paramilitary operations. Known for his leadership in the Contra War, counterterrorism missions, and the development of modern “find, fix, finish” kill teams, Prado’s life reads like a spy thriller.

Pelton and Prado share a mutual friend, CIA legend Billy Waugh , who goes beyond what was allowed in his best-selling book and takes the audience into uncharted, dangerous, and never-before-discussed territory.

A Childhood in the Crossfire

• Early Life in Cuba: Ric’s idyllic small-town upbringing was disrupted by armed raids from the mountains.
• First Taste of Combat: Watching firefights through the window as a boy, learning early lessons in survival.
• Operation Peter Pan: At age 10, separated from his parents and sent alone to the U.S., enduring life in a Catholic orphanage in Colorado.

Miami Streets and Martial Arts Discipline

• Growing up small and tough in Miami during a turbulent era of Cuban immigration.
• Learning English, navigating racial tensions, and surviving street fights.
• Introduction to martial arts and early exposure to tough crowds, including friends tied to organized crime.

The Shadow of Felipe Vidal

• For the first time, we learn of a famous Iran-Contra shadow figure. A rebel, assassin, and childhood friend of Prado: Felipe Vidal.
• Vidal’s family history with anti-Castro operations and exile politics.
• Vidal’s role linking CIA operations to Miami’s covert smuggling world, and his mysterious disappearance in the early ’90s. Vidal is interviewed by numerous journalists in Costa Rica, is wrongly blamed for a failed assassination attempt, and vanishes.

From Para Rescue to Paramilitary

• Ric rises above the mean streets of Miami. First as a paramedic, then as an Air Force Pararescueman (PJ), I mastered survival, combat medicine, and covert insertions.
• Work as a Miami firefighter/paramedic while training with Special Forces.
• First CIA contact in the 1970s, leading to contract work with the Special Activities Division in Central America.

The Contra War in Central America

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.

Send us a text

Robert Young Pelton explores danger and how to manage it. Not the trenches of Ukraine but for normal fans who need a basic primer on measuring risk.

When discussing danger, it's crucial to distinguish between fear and actual risk. The perception of danger is often influenced by imagery of warfare, poverty, or other conflicts, leading people to fear places where daily life continues for residents. For instance, despite being war zones, places like Ukraine, Somalia, or Libya can still have functioning aspects, offering opportunities for normal activities like dining out, eating on the beach, or visiting tourist attractions. Conversely, what seems mundane can be far more dangerous than perceived high-risk activities.

The Challenge of Measuring Danger

Accurately measuring danger, especially as it relates to specific countries, is difficult because governments often do not want to publicize negative incidents. While statistics can measure fatalities (e.g., x amount of people dying), this doesn't capture what truly deters people from traveling, which is often fear.

For example, in Mexico, cartels typically target competition, not tourists. Statistically, the most dangerous things for tourists in Mexico are drowning, car accidents, and heart attacks—similar to risks at home. Even seemingly innocuous aspects like hotel buffets can pose a risk of illness due to food preparation standards, making them potentially more dangerous than food from a small village. Reports also uncovered a surprising number of accidents from people falling off rusty balconies in resorts, which are not typically featured in danger brochures.

Resources to Measure Risk

Given the limitations of official statistics, travelers need to employ practical strategies to assess safety. Pelton explores each of the following elements in detail:

• Online Search
• Government Travel Warnings
• Embassies
• Local Networks
• Money
• Documents:
• Insurance

Finally, Pelton delves into the world of how the internet and smartphone thinking can lead adventurers astray when marketing and promotion don't match the actual risks on the ground. Pelton salts this episode with plenty of hard won wisdom and stories.

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.

Send us a text

Inside the Mind of Danger: Robert Young Pelton

The Man Behind the Book

When Reza Allahbakshi, a survival instructor and journalist, first picked up a battered used copy of The World’s Most Dangerous Places, he didn’t expect the man behind it to be so complex. Pelton, the author in question, isn’t just a writer — he’s a lumberjack, marketer, blaster’s assistant, television host, and, most notably, a relentless and fearless explorer of the globe’s most volatile zones. In this rich and often philosophical conversation, Pelton pulls back the curtain on his origins.

Who Is Robert Young Pelton?

Pelton’s life defies linear biography. He’s lived three very distinct lives: a blue-collar laborer in the Canadian North, a successful marketing executive, and finally, the intrepid chronicler of the world’s most dangerous places. But as he explains, the man on TV promoting the book in a tailored suit was met with confusion — viewers expected a jungle-worn Indiana Jones, not a corporate strategist with a flair for dark humor and hard facts.

Pelton rejects the cliché of the swashbuckling adventurer, saying that version of him “doesn’t exist.” What he brings instead is a detailed, useful, and frequently funny look at global hotspots that most people would never think to visit.

Writing the Ultimate Dangerous Travel Guide

Pelton conceived of The World’s Most Dangerous Places after realizing that there were no modern guides that provided serious, practical advice for travel to conflict zones. When he pitched the concept, he was met with skepticism. “Why would anyone want a book about places they don’t want to go?” publishers asked.

But Pelton, inspired by the explorer guides of the 18th and 19th centuries, knew there was value in information — even about places you might never visit. The first edition was a compendium of contacts, tips, and first-hand intelligence gathered before the internet made everything instantly accessible. As Pelton begins work on the long-awaited new edition of The World's Most Dangerous Places, he reviews what has made it popular.

The Problem With Modern Media and Fear

Social media, he argues, is amplifying fear for the sake of clicks. “Fear is a tool,” Pelton notes. “It drives engagement.” Misleading images and manipulated narratives domin

Robert Young Pelton is a Canadian-American author, journalist, filmmaker, and adventurer known for his conflict reporting and for venturing alone into some of the world's most dangerous and remote areas to chronicle history-shaping events. His work often involves interviewing military and political figures in war zones and spending time embedded with various groups, including the Taliban, Northern Alliance, CIA operatives, al Qaeda, and Blackwater .

He has been present at numerous conflicts, from Ukraine to the the Battle of Grozny and from Qali Jangi in Afghanistan to the rebel siege of Monrovia in Liberia.

Pelton is the author of several books, most notably the New York Times bestselling guide, "The World's Most Dangerous Places," which provides information for navigating high-risk zones. He has also written "Come Back Alive," a survival guide, and his autobiography, "The Adventurist: My Life in Dangerous Places". His work includes feature stories for National Geographic, Men’s Journal, Foreign Policy and Vice. He has worked as a contributing editor for National Geographic Adventure and has worked for major media networks like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, CBS's 60 Minutes, ABC Investigative Division, and CNN.

Pelton is also the founder of DPx Gear, a company that designs rugged survival tools and knives based on his field experiences.