TESTIMONIALS
“No one knows the business of exploration better than Rebecca Martin. She can take a germ of an idea, develop it, help find funding, making sure it receives the attention it deserves—through media coverage, book publishing and movie-making. During her three-decade career at National Geographic, she launched the careers of the world’s greatest explorers, including my own. I’d probably be selling insurance if it wasn’t for Rebecca’s support and tutelage. If you’re serious about succeeding, hire Rebecca.”
Dan Buettner,
“I can’t think of anyone with a more widescreen view of what exploration has been and can be than Rebecca. She’s played a critical role in shepherding diverse explorers through the gamut of expedition challenges across the globe. And she does it with humor, compassion, and a stable moral compass.”
Dr. Kenny Broad,
“Rebecca has been a close friend and important figure for me throughout my career. Her mentorship when I first started as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and photographer truly launched my career. For that, I am forever grateful. Rebecca’s vision in shepherding exploration grants and other programs—including Young Explorers—has helped launch the careers of some of the best in their fields. Her wisdom, experience and capacity to think ahead of the curve perfectly positions her to build something extraordinary with Exploration Connections.”
Jimmy Chin,
“Rebecca Martin’s passion for exploration informed and guided her highly successful career at National Geographic. I’ve been fortunate to work with her for nearly 20 years, as she spearheaded National Geographic’s support of the Banff Mountain Festivals, helping build the event into a global leader. Well recognized for her innovative, forward-thinking work, I find the future exciting as she launches Exploration Connections. With her broad network of explorers, funders, media, and business associates, Rebecca is poised, once again, to create partnerships that matter and help support exploration that has global impact. She is that rare individual whose mentoring skills are matched by her abilities to multi-task, think strategically, and see complex, long-term projects through to completion.”
Bernadette McDonald,
“Rebecca’s passion for exploration is only matched by her one-of-a-kind expertise in bringing innovative ideas to life. Rebecca has served as guide and knowledge source in helping me navigate vast networks, and she facilitates powerful matches. Her impact and influence as a respected leader is felt in fields that are on the cutting edge of innovative social good.”
Juan Martinez,
“A legend in the world of exploration, Rebecca has the stamina of a polar explorer, the guts of a rock climber, the knowledge of a scientist—and she knows everyone. I have had the great privilege of working with her for more than 20 years, and can’t think of a better team to work with than Exploration Connections.”
Børge Ousland,
“A big part of my international success is, in fact, Rebecca’s success. She not only championed many of my National Geographic coverages, but through her vast network, she introduced me to people who would become fantastic partners in exploration. Ultimately, as a result of her efforts and support, she contributed to my awards: An Emmy, two World Press Awards, and, most importantly, the National Geographic Photographer’s Photographer Award. I would not have achieved any of this without her. Perhaps her best trait is how she cares about her explorers, through both the successes and the challenging times.”
Carsten Peter,
“Rebecca Martin is a rare person in the field of exploration. She was recognized by Outside magazine on the “The Power List” in 2012 as one of the 25 most influential people in the world outside, alongside Melinda Gates and Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia. In her 30+ years at National Geographic, Rebecca innovated new, strategic programs that continue to have tremendous impact on the organization. She is a natural mentor with the uncommon gift not only to listen, but to truly hear explorers. Adept at working with people from an astonishing range of fields, she cares deeply about inclusivity. I know from years of experience that Rebecca’s greatest aspect is her genuine care for others.”
Dr. Losang Rabgey,
“Through the years, Rebecca Martin has been a pivotal force in making an extraordinary range of creative projects happen. Her commitment, ebullience, and know-how have had a tremendous impact in filling the world with fresh ideas and images — and in simply making it a better place. I am delighted to be a part of her new initiative.”
James Balog,
“I am one of countless people whose career has benefited tremendously from Rebecca’s experience and insight. She opened doors for me that I never knew existed and introduced me to so many people I would have never met otherwise.”
Anand Varma,
“Rebecca Martin believes in the power of exploration to ignite positive change. Her efforts to mentor, connect and support explorers around the world have helped launch many careers, including my own.”
Gabby Salazar,
"Rebecca Martin has started some of the most game-changing programs at National Geographic and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work directly with her on several of them: From the Young Explorers program to Explorer Mentorship, and directing the Fulbright National Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellows—and much more—Rebecca has the acumen, compassion and wherewithal to connect all the right dots to make a meaningful, lasting positive impact on the world around us. She is certainly the companion, connecter and catalyst I want on my team.”
Dr. Tierney Thys,
"The Latin root of explore is to 'call out.' To share the vision and work of exploration, one needs partners. In this regard, Rebecca is the most solid partner one could ask for. She knows the nuances of traveling the world, and is well connected to the people that define exploration. Over the years, I have come to rely on Rebecca for her insight and sage advice. The exploration community is more vibrant, thanks to Rebecca."
Conrad Anker,