Fearless & Far: How Mike Corey Went from Scientist to Explorer
Ever wondered how someone turns fear into a career? Mike Corey’s wild journey from marine biologist to fearless explorer might surprise you.
I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of adventure, not just the postcard version, but the kind that pushes your limits and changes your mindset. Mike Corey, also known as Fearless & Far, kept popping up in my YouTube recommendations, and I couldn’t ignore the curiosity anymore. How did a guy from Canada end up diving into tribal rituals, remote islands, and toxic lakes, and make a living from it? So, I started digging.
Quick Takeaways
Mike Corey, aka Fearless & Far, is a Canadian adventurer who turned fear into a travel career by exploring extreme cultures and off-grid rituals. Once a marine biologist, he’s now a YouTuber, Emmy-winning TV host, and podcaster who inspires millions with raw, fearless stories from around the world.
- Started as a marine biologist before switching to storytelling
- Runs the YouTube channel Fearless & Far with 2.9M+ subscribers
- Explores tribal rituals, sacred ceremonies, and extreme destinations
- Hosts shows for The Weather Channel and BBC; co-hosts a Wondery podcast
- Estimated monthly income: $10,000–$40,000 from various sources
- Not married, but in a relationship with fellow traveler Amira (@traveleroflove)
- Known for saying, “Fear is the best compass”
Who Is Mike Corey?
Mike Corey is a Canadian travel filmmaker, podcaster, and Emmy-winning TV host who turned his fear into fuel. He runs the popular YouTube channel Fearless & Far, where he takes on some of the world’s wildest experiences, like participating in Voodoo rituals, frog poison ceremonies, and scarification festivals.
Before YouTube, Mike was actually a marine biologist. He holds a BSc in Marine Biology and used to work on ocean conservation projects. But after a life-changing trip, he realized he was more drawn to storytelling than science, and that’s how this journey began.
He started his channel under the name Kick the Grind and later rebranded to Fearless & Far around 2018.
Mike Corey Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mike Corey |
| Online Name | Fearless & Far |
| Age | 39 years old (Born August 24, 1985) |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Based In | Nomadic (originally from Fredericton, NB) |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Profession | YouTuber, TV Host, Podcaster, Adventurer |
How He Became a Travel Vlogger
Mike didn’t jump straight into the deep end. He started small by backpacking, filming basic vlogs, and entering travel video contests. Over time, he got better at editing, storytelling, and connecting with people.
What stood out to me is how he didn’t just chase beautiful destinations. Instead, he chased discomfort. He once said, “Fear is the best compass.” That stuck with me.
Major Milestones
| Year | Adventure Highlight | Travel Style |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | First solo backpacking trip | Budget and public transport |
| 2019 | First extreme cultural experience | Local guides and immersion |
| 2022 | Tribal rites and sacred rituals documented | Remote and often risky |
His Wildest Adventures
Mike has done some pretty intense stuff. He has:
- Received a hand-tapped tattoo from Whang-Od in the Philippines
- Participated in Voodoo ceremonies in West Africa
- Endured the Amazon’s Kambo frog venom ritual
- Dived into toxic sulfur lakes
- Been shot at by military police in Turkey
- Survived a serious MRSA infection while filming in the jungle
These aren’t just stunts for clicks. They’re about cultural respect, personal limits, and telling powerful stories.
Career Highlights and How He Earns
- Mike’s work goes beyond YouTube videos.
- He has hosted Uncharted Adventure on The Weather Channel and been featured on BBC’s The Travel Show. He also co-hosts the Wondery podcast Against the Odds.
- He earns from YouTube ad revenue, brand sponsorships, affiliate deals, Patreon support, and speaking events. His estimated monthly income is between $10,000 and $40,000 depending on video performance and deals.
- It’s encouraging to see that a lifestyle built around curiosity and creativity can be sustainable if you build the right foundation.
Is Mike Corey Married?
As of 2025, Mike isn’t married. He keeps his personal life fairly private, but he has shared heartfelt posts about his partner, Amira, who goes by @traveleroflove on Instagram.
“A smile that can light a room. A laugh that can brighten a day. A heart that can break the clouds. No one has ever taken care of me like you.” – Mike Corey (Valentine’s Day Instagram post, 2025)
That kind of openness makes his story feel even more real.
What I’m Taking Away From His Story
Even though I’m not off chasing jungle rituals or ancient festivals, Mike’s journey shows me that adventure can start with a mindset. It’s okay to feel unsure or scared in the beginning. What matters is moving forward anyway.
If I keep learning, saving, and preparing, maybe I’ll find my own version of fearless travel too.
Lessons I Learned from Fearless & Far
- You don’t need fancy gear. Just start with what you have
- Fear can guide you to something meaningful
- It’s okay to earn while exploring if it helps you keep going
- Always research your destination, especially when it’s off the grid
- Stay true to your voice, not just the trend
Where to Follow Mike Corey
YouTube: Fearless & Far
Instagram: @fearlessandfar
Website: fearlessandfar.com
Final Thought
Mike Corey proves that meaningful travel isn’t just about where you go. It’s about growing through fear, choosing curiosity, and being open to what the world offers. That’s a kind of freedom I hope to experience someday too.
If you follow Mike’s journey or know another travel creator I should explore, let me know. I’m learning as I go, and your ideas keep this dream alive.
