Today I am delighted to share with you my interview with Bear Grylls.
With today’s kids glued to computer games, ipads, ipods and TV I thought it would be fascinating to discover more about Bear’s passion for teaching kids to build dens, make rope swings and have fun outside with nature.
Bear Grylls has become known around the world as one of the most recognised faces of survival and outdoor adventure. His journey started in the UK on the Isle of Wight, where his late father taught him to climb and sail. Trained from a young age in martial arts, Bear went on to spend three years as a soldier in the British Special Forces, serving with 21 SAS. It was here that he perfected many of the skills that his fans all over the world enjoy watching him pit against mother-nature. Bear later went on to become one of the youngest ever climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
Bear is the star of Discovery Channel’s Emmy nominated Man Vs Wild and Born Survivor TV series, which has become one of the most watched shows on the planet, reaching an estimated 1.2 billion viewers. Off screen, Bear has led record-breaking expeditions, from Antarctica to the Arctic, which in turn have raised over $2.5million for children around the world. In recognition for his expertise and service, Bear was appointed as the youngest ever Chief Scout to 28 million Scouts worldwide, was awarded an honorary commission as a Lieutenant-Commander in the Royal Navy, and has authored 10 books, including the No 1 Bestseller: Mud Sweat & Tears.
And now, thanks to Persil small & mighty, they are offering the chance to win the ultimate day’s adventure with survival expert Bear Grylls. Building campfires, exploring nature trails, learning outdoor survival skills – the lucky winners will discover a range of action-packed activities throughout the day.
ME: What did you play as a child that made you excited and totally engaged?
I used to climb with my Dad- anything- trees, hills, cliffs and our house!
Did you always have an active imagination?
Yes, it was always encouraged.
How do you cope with boredom?
My mum used to say: only boring people get bored!
What motivates you?
The knowledge that life is precious and every day a gift to be lived boldly.
What made you laugh out loud as a child?
Toilet humour- and it still does!
Did you play with siblings and friends or did you prefer to explore outside on your own?
I used to do both at the same time! That was playing at its best!
What legacy would you like to leave?
I would like to have encouraged adventure, faith and friendships.
Who were and are your heroes?
My late father, the man who taught me to climb.
Is it important for kids to have positive role models and does it matter which ones?
I think this is vital. We learn best from others we admire.
How do you face the fear and do it anyway, and is there anything that scares you?
I am terrified of cocktail parties! Fear though is an emotion that serves to sharpen us for what we need to do- then it can serve you.
If you could givea 10 year old child one piece of advice – what would it be?
Don’t listen to the dream stealers.
How can we teach that balance to kids between technology and getting out into nature, exploring, challenging ourselves and having fun?
Ithink it’s possible to use technology in the wild to invent fun games! Activities like orienteering or hide and seek.
What challenges have you set yourself for the next 3 years?
New programmes, again based around adventure and empowering others.
And of course ….. what do you do to relax?
To relax I head to our little island hideaway in Wales.
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