By: Jonathan Hayes
Exploration is no longer just about traversing uncharted lands. Richard Wiese, the president of The Explorers Club, is redefining what it means to be an explorer in the 21st century. Under his leadership, exploration has expanded to include environmental conservation, scientific research, and technological innovation, ensuring that discovery serves a meaningful purpose in addressing global challenges.
Wiese’s passion for exploration was ignited at an early age. His father, Richard Wiese Sr., made history as the first person to fly solo across the Pacific Ocean, demonstrating that discovery is about pushing boundaries. At just 11 years old, Wiese climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, setting the stage for a lifetime of adventure. However, rather than focusing solely on personal achievements, Wiese has worked to elevate the contributions of others who are making a real impact in the field of exploration.
One of his most significant initiatives has been the Explorers Club 50 (EC50), a program that highlights trailblazers whose work is advancing science, conservation, and cultural preservation. “The world doesn’t just need more explorers; it needs more recognized explorers,” Wiese states. EC50 has provided a platform for individuals making groundbreaking discoveries in climate science, marine biology, and indigenous knowledge preservation.
Under Wiese’s leadership, the concept of exploration has evolved to become more inclusive and interdisciplinary. Traditionally associated with extreme adventurers, exploration today includes researchers mapping the ocean floor, scientists studying glacial melt, and archaeologists uncovering lost civilizations. Wiese’s vision has helped shift the focus from personal achievements to collective knowledge, celebrating exploration as a shared human endeavor.
Beyond his work with The Explorers Club, Wiese has played a crucial role in bringing exploration into the public consciousness through media. His Emmy-winning television series Born to Explore has taken viewers on journeys across the globe, educating audiences on environmental issues, cultural traditions, and scientific breakthroughs. “If we want people to engage with exploration, we have to make it accessible and inspiring,” Wiese explains. His ability to merge adventure with education has helped redefine public perceptions of what it means to be an explorer.
The impact of Wiese’s work can be seen in the careers of those he has helped elevate. “Being named an EC50 honoree truly turned my world upside down in the best way,” 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.”
Collaboration has been a central theme in Wiese’s approach to exploration. He has worked to establish partnerships between explorers, researchers, and global organizations to ensure that essential projects receive the resources and support they need. “No one explores alone,” he emphasizes. “The greatest discoveries happen when people come together to share knowledge and expertise.” His leadership has helped secure funding and research opportunities for various exploration initiatives.
Photo Courtesy: Richard Wiese
Looking to the future, Wiese sees exploration as a tool for solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From combating climate change to protecting endangered species, he believes that discovery must serve as a means of driving positive change. “Exploration isn’t just about seeking the unknown,” he says. “It’s about applying what we learn to create a better future for everyone.”
Through his leadership, Richard Wiese ensures that exploration continues to evolve in relevant and impactful ways. He is making exploration more meaningful by championing inclusivity, fostering collaboration, and promoting scientific discovery. Whether through his work at The Explorers Club, his contributions to media, or his advocacy for global research, Wiese continues to push the boundaries of exploration, proving that discovery is about more than just adventure—it is about shaping a better world for future generations.
Published by Mark V.
