Overland Journal Podcast host Scott Brady interviews John Balsdon of Always Look Twice, a recent world record holder, about his 28-day drive from Nordkapp, Norway, to Cape Agulhas, South Africa. Balsdon, who largely hugged West Africa’s coast in two INEOS Grenadiers (one towing a Bruder trailer), shares how early travels and his mother, a professional photographer, shaped his attention to detail and lifelong drive to document landscapes and cultures. They discuss staying grounded post-travel through planning and reflection, the contrasts of living abroad versus passing through, and why he pursued the record as an antidote to “doom scrolling.” Balsdon highlights Guinea and the North Cape, describes low points in Angola, a lost passport recovered through Nigerian kindness, vehicle prep, and a forthcoming feature-length film.
Overland Journal Podcast Episode #293
The Overland Journal Podcast is brought to you this week by Overland Journal Magazine
JOHN BALSDON
British photographer and explorer John Balsdon set a new record by completing the 20,000-kilometer Cape to Cape Road challenge on April 15, 2026, beating the 42-year-old time by five hours. The team drove unsupported from Nordkapp, Norway, to Cape Agulhas, South Africa, crossing 25 borders in 28 days and enduring extreme temperatures and bureaucratic delays. Balsdon’s goal was an artistic mission to document the route’s changing natural beauty. The expedition, which included a grueling 3,500 kilometers drive across Angola, Namibia, and South Africa, physically and psychologically tested the team. The odyssey reflects Balsdon’s philosophy, Always Look Twice, which encourages appreciating nature. He asserts, “I firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover the world.” The film documenting the challenge is expected in the autumn.
Fine art photographer aims to break 20,000km Cape to Cape world record with camera in hand
Host Bios:
Scott Brady
Scott is the executive publisher and co-founder of Expedition Portal and Overland Journal and is often credited with popularizing overlanding in North America. His travels by 4WD and adventure motorcycle span all seven continents and include three circumnavigations of the globe. His polar expeditions include two vehicle crossings of Antarctica and the first long-axis crossing of Greenland. @scott.a.brady
Crossing Continents :: Traversing the Cederberg Range to Cape Agulhas
Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.