Happy New Year! I hope 2025 has started off as an exciting journey for you.
As we move into February, I wanted to pause and reflect on the “safari” we’ve been on already this year—the twists, turns, and all the lessons learned along the way. Life really is one big adventure, isn’t it?
Change can feel like wandering into the unknown, but that’s where the magic happens. This month, I shared some personal stories on LinkedIn about stepping off the beaten path and discovering incredible opportunities. Whether it’s a new challenge or a fresh start, change is the ultimate adventure that helps us grow.
For the new year, I have a critical question I am asking and a focus on how I’m going to help more individuals, teams, organizations, and communities:
Are you ready for your breakthrough?
New year = new speaking opportunities!
I started the month with a trip to the Lake of the Ozarks where I spoke to more than 500 mining industry professionals at the Missouri Mine Safety and Health Conference.
I also had a pretty cool conversation with Box 7 Media and Jeremy Schreifels. We chatted about the “right peeps in your jeep” and how everyone is wired a little differently. Lastly, check in on the Vikings fans in your life. We are still recovering from that loss.
Will I see you at any upcoming events this month?
As we dive into February, let’s keep exploring!
Treat this year like a safari: stay curious, embrace every twist in the trail, and remember that every step—big or small—brings you closer to your goals. And hey, if the terrain feels a little wild, know that I’m right here, cheering you on from my own journey.
What’s next on your adventure map?
Shoot me an email or send me a message on LinkedIn and let me know—I’d love to hear how your journey is going!
Though we had enough people to do our safari this June, there were so many who would rather go in 2026 to give more time to prepare. Therefore, I have made the call to defer the trip.
Within a couple of months, however, I am going to start putting Zoom meetings together so we can plan the optimal trip for as many people as possible!
If you are already on the “Safari Interest” list, there is nothing for you to do now. If you are not yet receiving safari updates (or unsure) and would like to stay in the loop, just reply and let me know.
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If you’re not already following me on LinkedIn, let’s connect! You might also enjoy subscribing to my YouTube channel, becoming friends on Facebook, or connecting on TikTok.
Join the conversation, and let’s keep this adventure going together.
Until next time,
Maisha ni safari
(Swahili… Life is a Safari)
Sincerely,
Steve Fredlund,
The Safari Dude
Life is an adventure. Make it epic.
Shoot me an email, connect on LinkedIn, subscribe on YouTube, consider coaching, find me at a conference, or whatever makes sense in your world.
About The Author
Steve Fredlund is an award-winning keynote speaker, two-time TEDx presenter, and bestselling author of Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser. After decades as an actuary, executive, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder—including leading humanitarian efforts in East Africa—Steve discovered that doing everything “right” doesn’t always lead to fulfillment or impact.
Drawing from that journey, he developed The Courage Advantage™ philosophy—centered on the everyday courage to move beyond expectation, lead with authenticity, and live in alignment with what truly matters. Through his engaging stories, humor, and practical insights, Steve inspires audiences to find greater clarity, connection, and fulfillment in both life and leadership.