Levison Wood Keynote Speaker

Explorer, writer and photographer
Undertook a world-first expedition to walk the length of the River Nile
Co-founder, Secret Compass, an independent expeditionary company (2010)

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Levison Wood's Biography

Levison Wood is a professional explorer, writer and photographer. Over the last decade he has had eight critically-acclaimed documentary series which have aired around the world, in which he has walked the length of the Nile, the Himalayas, the Americas, crossed the Caucasus, circumnavigated the Arabian Peninsula, followed the migration and conservation of elephants in Botswana and more. His latest series about endangered animals aired in August 2023 on Channel 4.

Levison is an elected fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Explorer’s Club. He is an ambassador for UNICEF and Leica. He served as an officer for several years in the Parachute Regiment, where he saw combat operations in Afghanistan.

He has written 12 best-selling books about his journeys, including a motivational book called The Art of Exploration, which was released in June 2021. ‘Britain’s best loved adventurer’ (The Times) talks about his secrets of discovery for the first time in this revealing manual of what it means to be an explorer in the modern age. He shares his own stories, as well as examples of pioneers in many fields, using their work to show how we can all develop our own explorer’s mindset and how these lessons can be applied in daily life. With chapters on curiosity, teamwork, resilience and positivity this is a book that provides a tool kit – no matter your age or profession.

He has recently completed his third UK-wide speaking tour, also entitled ‘The Art of Exploration’. He also often gives adventure-filled talks to companies, charities and universities on leadership and teamwork. He shares his amusing and poignant tales of life on the road and his transition from Parachute Regiment soldier to modern day explorer. With further stories and behind the scenes moments from his journeys all over the world for Channel 4, Levison asks why we travel. As well as the people and places that have inspired him, he’ll reveal the perils of life on expeditions, what it’s like being chased by hippos, shot at by gunmen, falling off a mountain and meeting illustrious figures such as the Dalai Lama along the way.

The Art of Exploration: Leadership lessons from the road less travelled

Synopsis: Drawing from his experiences navigating remote landscapes and challenging environments, Levison explores the critical traits of effective leadership: resilience, adaptability, and curiosity. Through his own journey—whether crossing the Himalayas or walking the length of the Nile—he shares how leaders can thrive in uncertainty and lead teams through adversity.

Risk and Reward: The explorer’s approach to decision-making

Synopsis: In this dynamic talk, Levison dissects the importance of calculated risk-taking, both in expeditions and business. Using real-life anecdotes of facing danger in warzones, wild landscapes, and remote regions, he illustrates how to assess risk, embrace uncertainty, and make bold, informed decisions that lead to success.

Beyond Survival: Teamwork under pressure in extreme environments

Synopsis: Teamwork is essential when faced with life-threatening challenges. Levison discusses the power of collaboration in the toughest environments, sharing how diverse teams—whether military, scientific, or in business—succeed by relying on trust, communication, and mutual respect.

Creativity Under Pressure: Finding innovative solutions in the field

Synopsis: In this talk, Levison shows how exploration forces one to think outside the box. From navigating unknown terrains to finding solutions to life-threatening problems, he demonstrates how an "explorer’s mindset" fosters creativity and innovation in the face of adversity.

The Explorer's Mindset: Curiosity as a tool for personal and professional growth

Synopsis: Curiosity is a powerful driver of progress, both in exploration and in business. Levison shares his insights on how curiosity led him to the most awe-inspiring corners of the world, and how embracing this trait can unlock opportunities, drive personal growth, and build stronger teams.

Photography: Capturing the spirit of Adventure

Synopsis: A seasoned photographer and Leica ambassador, Levison reveals how photography has played a key role in his adventures. In this visually-rich talk, he shares his journey behind the lens, offering insights into how capturing the right moment can convey powerful messages about leadership, resilience, and the human spirit.

Conservation and Adventure: Exploring the world’s fragile ecosystems

Synopsis: Levison shares his experiences working alongside conservationists and exploring the world’s most endangered regions. Through captivating stories from his wildlife-focused expeditions, he delves into the importance of preserving our planet and discusses how businesses and individuals can play an active role in environmental stewardship.