At Extrology, we aim to explore the extraordinary—those moments, individuals, and stories that challenge us to think bigger, push our limits, and create a meaningful impact. In our latest podcast episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with someone who truly embodies these ideals: Holly Budge.

Holly is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. As the first woman to skydive over Everest, she has not only conquered physical heights but has also demonstrated the mental fortitude required to thrive in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth. However, what makes Holly truly remarkable isn't just her impressive list of accomplishments; it's how she uses her experiences to inspire and empower others.

The Power of Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone

One of the most profound themes that emerged during our conversation was the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. Holly’s life exemplifies the idea that real growth occurs when we push beyond our perceived limits. Whether summiting the world’s highest peaks or leading expeditions in remote parts of the globe, Holly has consistently shown that stretching our boundaries strengthens not only our bodies but also our minds, resilience, and sense of self.

During our discussion, Holly shared valuable insights into how this mindset has shaped her journey. She talked about the challenges she faced on the mountains, where the battle is often as much mental as it is physical. By embracing these difficulties, Holly has honed an exceptional ability to focus, conquer self-doubt, and persevere in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the obstacles we face can be our greatest opportunities for growth.

Living with Purpose: The Mission of How Many Elephants

While Holly’s adventures are awe-inspiring, what truly sets her apart is her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world. Holly is the founder of How Many Elephants, a nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness about the devastating effects of the ivory trade and supporting female rangers on the frontlines of conservation. In our conversation, Holly spoke passionately about the purpose that fuels her work. She’s not just advocating for elephants—she’s empowering women and communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond her own actions. This deep sense of purpose, of investing in something greater than oneself, is central to Holly’s philosophy and offers a key takeaway for anyone striving to make a lasting impact.

Authenticity and Selflessness in Action

Another theme that resonated throughout our conversation was Holly’s authenticity and selflessness. Despite her remarkable achievements, she remains grounded and focused on the greater good. Holly’s leadership style is deeply personal—she leads with empathy, regularly checking in on the well-being of those around her, both physically and emotionally. This down-to-earth nature, coupled with her fierce determination, makes Holly not just a leader, but a role model for anyone seeking to live with integrity and purpose.

Lessons from Holly Budge: Resilience, Growth, and Purpose

Holly’s story is more than an adventure tale; it’s a lesson in resilience, growth, and the power of living with purpose. Her journey reminds us that by stepping outside our comfort zones and committing to causes that matter, we can achieve far more than we ever thought possible. Holly’s experiences offer invaluable lessons on how we can all push our limits, face our fears, and contribute to something greater than ourselves.

Listen to the Full Conversation

For those eager to dive deeper into Holly’s extraordinary journey and learn more about her work with How Many Elephants, I highly encourage you to listen to our full conversation on the Extrology podcast. Holly’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we combine courage with purpose, and it’s sure to leave you inspired to take meaningful action in your own life.