Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Scott Davis Featured on Big World Made Small Podcast
From Personal Loss to 280 Days in the Wild
For Scott Davis, the question wasn’t hypothetical: Am I actually living the life I want? At a crossroads shaped by loss, he confronted that question with a rare clarity. Many of us carry quiet dreams — untended, postponed, deferred by the routines and obligations of daily life. For Scott, it wasn’t enough to admire far‑off places in magazines; he knew he wanted to be in them, learning from them and sharing what he saw with others.
In the newest episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins and Scott reflect on a journey that moves beyond a résumé to reveal how deep curiosity and quiet resolve can shape a life worth exploring. Scott’s path from marine biology and wildlife research to the helm of Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris didn’t come from following a script. It came from moments of reassessment, from connection with the natural world, and from a decision to meet uncertainty with intention.
About the Podcast
If you’re drawn to stories that explore the intersection of people and place, Big World Made Small is a conversation worth your time. Hosted by Jason Elkins, this podcast delves into the lived experience of adventure travel — not as a checklist but as a means of connection and discovery.
Episode #153 invites listeners to wander beyond the familiar and into the wild. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or dreaming from your desk, Jason’s thoughtful interviews offer something deeper. Learn more at Adventure Travel Marketing.
Key Moments from the Conversation
From National Geographic Dreams to National Geographic Explorer
Scott’s fascination with the natural world began early. Like so many, he was captivated by the images and stories in National Geographic magazines. That fascination matured into a vocation — one that took him from marine biology into full-time exploration. He’s now a recognized National Geographic Explorer, yet what defines his path isn’t the title, but his continued passion for sharing that wonder with others.
280 Days a Year in the Field: What That Really Means
280 days in the field each year isn’t about endurance — it’s about presence. Scott describes life in remote environments as a daily practice in humility and observation. He guides guests through places where schedules bend to the rhythms of wildlife, and every moment demands attention. It’s less about clocking days and more about honoring the time we’re given in the wild.
Why Guest Relationships Matter More Than Perfect Itineraries
“We can plan meticulously,” Scott shares, “but it’s the unexpected conversations and shared discoveries that carve the deepest memories.” His philosophy prioritizes connection over perfection. It’s the unplanned moments — helping someone adjust their camera, spotting a leopard at dusk — that become the true essence of a trip.
The Call to Reject Complacency
One of Scott’s most powerful insights is about not settling. After experiencing loss, he chose to pursue a life that reflected his deepest values — not comfort, but curiosity; not routine, but meaning. This episode invites listeners to reconsider the paths they’re on and ask: What would it take to live a little bolder?
About Scott Davis
Scott Davis is co-CEO and co-owner of Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris, blending scientific insight with adventure, photography, and conservation. With a background in marine biology and wildlife research, Scott has worked on all seven continents and collaborated with National Geographic, the BBC, and Animal Planet.
As a professional expedition leader and photographer, Scott now spends most of the year guiding travelers through remote ecosystems, helping them not only witness wildlife but understand it. He’s based in Monterey, California — though rarely standing still.
Experience It Yourself
If Scott’s reflections inspired you, you don’t have to just imagine these moments — you can experience them. Our small-group wildlife expeditions are designed around immersion, conservation, and education. Whether it’s witnessing humpbacks in Antarctica, polar bears in Svalbard, or marine wonders in the Galapagos, we offer more than just trips — we offer transformation.
Listen to Scott’s full episode on the Big World Made Small podcast, hosted by Jason Elkins. If it resonates with you, consider rating or reviewing it on Apple Podcasts to support the show.
Ready to explore more? Reach out to our safari coordinators — or browse our 2026–2027 expeditions online.
Closing Thought
Scott’s journey invites us to rethink what a bold life looks like. Not flashy, not reckless — but intentional. His message is simple: don’t wait. If there’s something calling to you, listen. You might just find a version of life that’s richer, fuller, and more connected than you ever expected.