From Greece to the Open Road: A Journey of Healing and Adventure with Teri Brown

In the latest episode of Travel Time Stories, hosts Shannon and Ann welcome Teri Brown, a remarkable storyteller whose life is a testament to adventure, resilience, and the healing power of travel. From her unique upbringing in Greece to an incredible tandem bicycle journey across the United States, Teri's experiences illuminate the profound connections we forge through our stories and the strength we find in vulnerability.

1. Growing Up as an Air Force Brat
Teri Brown’s life began in Athens, Greece, where she was born to an Air Force family. This unconventional upbringing shaped her perspective on home and identity. In her words, “Home isn’t about a family house… it’s the traditions and the love you bring along.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many who have experienced a transient lifestyle, reflecting that home can be wherever we create memories and foster connections.

2. The Tandem Bicycle Adventure
In 2020, Teri and her husband embarked on a remarkable journey—riding a tandem bicycle across the United States. This experience tested their trust and collaboration as they navigated challenges together. “A tandem bicycle requires a lot of trust,” Teri explains, emphasizing the need for coordination and communication. The couple rode through diverse landscapes, facing physical and emotional hurdles that brought them closer.

3. Challenges and Triumphs on the Road
The journey was not without its difficulties. Teri candidly shares her fears about riding downhill, particularly during a rainy descent in Oregon, highlighting the moment her husband experienced a cramp while they were speeding down a hill. “We were careening down that hill... and I was a wreck,” she recalls. These moments of vulnerability reveal the raw emotions tied to their adventure, making their story relatable and inspiring.

4. Healing Through Adventure
Beyond the physical challenges, Teri’s journey was also a path of healing. As she coped with anxiety stemming from a past abusive relationship, cycling across the country became a metaphor for her personal growth. “You have to relinquish control to someone else,” she states, showcasing the importance of trust not only in relationships but also in our own healing journeys.

Teri Brown’s story is a powerful reminder of the beauty found in our journeys—both literal and metaphorical. By embracing vulnerability and fostering trust in our relationships, we can navigate the unpredictable paths of life. Her experiences encourage us to view home as a feeling rather than a place and highlight the healing potential of adventure.

To read about her tandem bike adventure pick up her book 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure. Teri is an award winning author of many books across several genres so visit her website https://www.terimbrown.com/ to learn more about her and to pick up one of her amazing books!