From “I’ll Die Single” to Building a Global Community of Ethical Adventure

What happens when a woman in her 60s decides she’s not done yet?

In this powerful, funny and deeply human conversation, we’re joined by Sheila Fitzgerald, founder of EVA Volunteer Travel — a woman who went from Googling “what should I do before I die?” to creating ethical adventures around the world.

Sheila’s story moves from heartbreak and self-doubt to machetes in Thailand, elephants in India, gorillas in Rwanda and wheelchairs built for landmine survivors in Cambodia — alongside a global community she has created of people rediscovering confidence, purpose and connection.

We’re also joined briefly by Matt Fenton, CEO of Inspired Ventures Limited, who believed in Sheila’s vision early on — and has supported her and EVA every step of the way.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why “people like me don’t do things like this” is a story worth challenging
• How ethical volunteering works best with communities, not to them
• What fear looks like just before you act
• Why age might be your secret power
• How small actions can create lasting impact

This is a conversation about third acts, bad girls, flying with eagles (not turkeys), and what becomes possible when you stop waiting for permission.

Please follow the links to find out more:

EVA Volunteer Travel: https://www.evatravel.uk

EVA Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/evavolunteertravel

Inspired Travel Ltd: https://www.inspiredtravel.co.uk

We are back with a new series of Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained from Thursday February 12th. Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.

NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.

🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.

📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027

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