Nate Menninger has chased experiences around the world, from running with the bulls in Spain to diving the Blue Hole in Belize. Most recently, he became one of the first foreigners to work as a Himalayan porter in Nepal, an experience he documented in his first-ever film, The Porter. In this episode, Nate shares the wild story of becoming a porter in Nepal, working side-by-side with local Nepalese porters on a 23-day trek. We talk about how he pulled it off, what it taught him, and the unexpected impact it had on his mental health, perspective, and purpose.Nate's experience challenges a lot of what we assume about ethical travel, cultural immersion, and even our own motivations as travelers. We unpack what it means to be fully present in a different culture, the power of learning a local language, and how intention and humility can open doors to deeper connection. Whether you're planning a trek in Nepal or just thinking about how to be a more thoughtful traveler, this episode will give you a lot to chew on.How have your travels challenged your assumptions about other cultures? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.*This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen.Premium Passport:Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now!Tune In To Learn:Why he chose to live the experience instead of just documenting itHow he taught himself Nepali in a matter of weeksThe surprising benefits of taking a two-week vow of silenceHow the idea for the film came together and what it took to actually make it happenWhat really goes on behind the scenes in Nepal’s trekking industryThe economics of porter life and why many actually lose money on treksAdvice to travelers on tipping, hiring porters, and doing ethical researchHow immersive projects can create access to authentic cultural experiencesWhy communication is the key to better travelAnd so much moreResources:Join Zero To Travel Premium PassportSign up for our FREE newsletterVisit Nate's websiteWatch The PorterFollow The Porter Film on Instagram, YouTubeWant More?Trekking Nepal SeriesFrom Wall Street to Nepal, Life-Changing Moments, and What It Means To Have Enough With James C. HopkinsBeyond the Summit: Climbing Mt. Everest, Filming at 29,000 Feet, a Cultural Journey through Nepal, and Taking Your Childhood Dreams to Heart with Alex HarzThanks To Our SponsorsUnbound Merino - Use code ‘TRAVEL10’ to get 10% off your Unbound Merino order.Visit Baltimore - Start planning your visit to Charm City today!Harvest Hosts - Use code TRAVEL20 for 20% off your Harvest Hosts membership.Booking.com - Book your next stay and find exactly what you’re looking for on booking.com.Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order.