In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Amanda, a solo traveler who embarked on the challenging Kokoda Track trek.

Amanda shares her inspiring story of perseverance and self-discovery, from her initial nervousness to finding strength in the face of adversity. She talks about the importance of mental preparation, the value of a supportive community, and the life-changing experience of walking the Kokoda Track.

With honesty and vulnerability, Amanda opens up about her fears, doubts, and triumphs, making this episode a must-listen for anyone considering tackling the Kokoda Track or seeking inspiration for their own adventures.

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In this special episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar shares valuable insights and practical tips for trekkers preparing to tackle the Kokoda Track.

As the ANZAC period approaches, Glenn emphasizes the importance of mindset and preparation, encouraging listeners to lean into the challenges ahead. He shares personal anecdotes and expert advice on how to make the most of the experience, from connecting with local people to being present in the moment. Glenn's words of wisdom will help trekkers navigate the physical and emotional demands of the track and create lasting memories.

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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn chats with Mike, a remarkable individual who defied the odds to complete the Kokoda Track despite being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Mike shares his inspiring story of determination and resilience, from his initial doubts to his incredible achievement. Glenn and Mike discuss the challenges he faced on the track, including the physical and emotional struggles, and how he found support from his group and the local villagers. This conversation is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance.

If you've ever doubted your capacity to complete Kokoda, this episode will inspire you.

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The Kokoda Track doesn’t care about gender — but preparation does.

In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar speaks directly to the women who are preparing to walk Kokoda, or who feel the quiet pull of the Track but want to make sure they’re approaching it the right way.

Drawing on decades of on-ground experience leading women across Kokoda, Glenn shares ten things every woman should know before stepping into the jungle — the practical realities that don’t always make it into generic trekking advice, but make all the difference once you’re out there.

From managing chafing and periods in jungle humidity, to hydration, pack weight, cultural respect, and the emotional depth of Kokoda, this episode is honest, empowering, and grounded in real experience.

This isn’t about limitation.
It’s about confidence, preparation, and walking Kokoda on your terms.

🎧 Inside this episode:
• 10 practical Kokoda tips specifically for women
• How to prepare physically and emotionally
• Why strength isn’t silence on Kokoda
• The importance of cultural respect on the Track
• How preparation turns Kokoda into an empowering experience

📥 Resources mentioned:
• Full blog: Women on the Kokoda Track
• Free download: Helpful Hints for Women on Kokoda

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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Graham Murphy, a 59-year-old truck driver who's just completed the grueling Kokoda Track. Graham shares his inspiring story of perseverance, from being told by his doctor he wouldn't make it to his 40th birthday due to his health, to training on the road and overcoming numerous setbacks, including COVID-19 and track closures. He opens up about his mental and physical challenges, the importance of having a porter, and the life-changing experience of completing the track.


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Tok Pisin on Kokoda: Language as Respect

Language is one of the simplest — and most powerful — ways to show respect on the Kokoda Track. In this first episode of the Cultural Series on The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores Tok Pisin, one of Papua New Guinea’s main languages, and explains why learning just a few basic phrases can completely change how trekkers are received along the Track. This episode goes beyond memorising words. It explains why Tok Pisin is not “broken English,” why effort matters more than perfect pronunciation, and how language signals humility, awareness, and respect in village environments. Drawing on years of experience on the Track and cultural insight gained through family connection, this episode sets the foundation for how trekkers should think about communication, behaviour, and respect on Kokoda. This is an essential listen for anyone preparing to walk the Track — and a reminder that Kokoda is not just a physical journey, but a human one.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• What Tok Pisin is and why it matters on Kokoda
• Essential greetings and phrases every trekker should know
• Why greetings and goodbyes are culturally important
• How language changes interactions in villages
• The difference between effort and performance when using Tok Pisin
• Why respect on Kokoda often begins with simple words

This episode forms the foundation of an ongoing cultural series woven throughout the podcast. In the next cultural episode, we’ll explore village etiquette on Kokoda — including behaviour, boundaries, photography, and how trekkers are remembered long after they leave.

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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Kevin, a dad who trekked the Kokoda Track with his adult kids and their partners. Kevin shares his unique perspective on the experience, highlighting the importance of family bonding and the challenges of tackling the grueling 96-kilometer trek. He opens up about his own personal growth, the impact of the journey on his kids, and the lessons learned along the way. From the physical and mental demands of the track to the emotional highs and lows, Kevin's story is a must-listen for anyone considering the Kokoda Track adventure.

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Porters, Ethics, and Responsibility on Kokoda

Porters are the backbone of every Kokoda trek — yet their role is often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores the ethical responsibilities that come with trekking Kokoda and explains why porter welfare, respect, and partnership matter far more than convenience. Drawing on decades of on-Track experience, Glenn unpacks the power dynamics at play, the difference between ethical and exploitative systems, and the role trekkers themselves play in shaping the culture of Kokoda trekking. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to walk Kokoda with integrity.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The real role porters play on the Kokoda Track
• Why ethical responsibility matters in trekking
• What good porter systems actually look like
• How trekkers contribute to respectful culture
• Why leadership is revealed under load

Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and purpose.

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