By: Jasmine Cole
Exploration has long been associated with the great adventurers of history—figures who ventured into uncharted lands and returned with tales of discovery. In today’s world, the concept of exploration is evolving, and few individuals have contributed as significantly to redefining its scope as Richard Wiese. As the president of The Explorers Club, Wiese has worked tirelessly to make exploration more inclusive, diverse, and impactful, striving to ensure that people from all walks of life have the opportunity to contribute to humanity’s understanding of the world.
From a young age, Richard Wiese was drawn to adventure. His father, Richard Wiese Sr., made history as the first person to fly solo across the Pacific Ocean, and by age 11, Wiese himself had summited Mount Kilimanjaro. However, his vision for exploration was never solely about personal achievements—it was about using discovery to advance science, protect the environment, and amplify the untold stories of people who have long been overlooked in the world of exploration.
One of Wiese’s notable contributions has been his leadership in launching the Explorers Club 50 (EC50), an initiative aimed at recognizing a diverse range of explorers who are making meaningful contributions in their respective fields. “The world doesn’t just need more explorers; it needs more recognized explorers,” Wiese says. EC50 highlights individuals who are making significant contributions to science, conservation, and cultural preservation, giving them a platform to share their work with the world.
Under Wiese’s leadership, The Explorers Club has made considerable strides in ensuring that exploration is not just for a select few but for everyone. He believes that modern exploration is about knowledge, not just discovery. “Exploration today is about sharing information that can benefit the world. It’s about opening doors for people who have traditionally been left out of the conversation,” he explains. This philosophy has led him to champion scientists, conservationists, and storytellers from underrepresented backgrounds, acknowledging that exploration is as much about ideas as it is about physical travel.
One of the key aspects of Wiese’s work has been challenging outdated notions of who qualifies as an explorer. Traditionally, the image of an explorer has been shaped by privilege, with Western figures taking center stage. Wiese is working to change that. “Exploration is about curiosity. It’s about looking at the world in a way that leads to new understanding, regardless of where you come from,” he says. The efforts of EC50 have helped broaden the definition of exploration, showcasing the work of individuals who are making measurable changes in their communities and beyond.
Beyond his role at The Explorers Club, Wiese has used media to bring exploration to a broader audience. His Emmy-winning television series Born to Explore has taken viewers to remote corners of the world, introducing them to cultures, conservation efforts, and scientific advancements. “If we want to inspire the next generation of explorers, we have to make discovery accessible and relatable,” he says. Through storytelling, he has helped bridge the gap between traditional exploration and the modern world, suggesting that anyone with curiosity and dedication can contribute to the field.
Wiese’s influence extends beyond television and institutional leadership. His work has inspired explorers across disciplines, and many credit him with helping them gain recognition. “Being named an EC50 honoree had a profound impact on my career,” says Dr. Britney Schmidt, a polar explorer. “Before that, I was more of a silent member of The Explorers Club, but this recognition connected me with an incredible community of like-minded explorers who see the world in unique ways.”
Photo Courtesy: Richard Wiese
Wiese’s commitment to mentorship has been another important component of his impact. He understands that true exploration does not happen in isolation—it is a collective effort. By fostering partnerships with organizations like Rolex and Discovery Networks, he has helped secure funding and opportunities for rising explorers. “No one explores alone. The best discoveries happen when we work together, share ideas, and learn from one another,” he emphasizes.
As he looks toward the future, Wiese remains focused on ensuring that exploration remains a tool for learning and progress. He envisions a world where exploration is not just about adventure but about addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. “I want people to see exploration as something bigger than a single moment of adventure. It’s about the ongoing journey of understanding our world, its people, and our place in it. And the more people we bring into that journey, the better.”
Through his work, Richard Wiese has helped reshape what it means to be an explorer. By lifting others up and redefining the field to be more inclusive, he has paved the way for the next generation of pioneers to share their discoveries. His vision, leadership, and dedication to expanding the boundaries of exploration are likely to leave a lasting impact for years to come.
Published by Anne C.
