Fearless & Far: How Mike Corey Went from Scientist to Explorer
For Mike Corey, fear is a compass, guiding him to the world’s most extreme adventures, from tribal rituals to lost places.
For many, freedom is a dream, but for Mike Corey, it is a lifestyle forged through bold choices and relentless exploration. Known as Fearless & Far, he has redefined adventure vlogging by seeking out the world’s most unusual and extreme experiences.
From participating in ancient tribal rituals to exploring abandoned islands, Mike’s fearless approach to travel has earned him over 2.9 million YouTube subscribers and millions of views across social media. But how did he transform from a marine biologist into one of the most daring travel vloggers of our time? Let’s uncover his journey.
Mike is also an Emmy-nominated TV Host, podcaster, and influencer dedicated to inspiring others to face their fears. You can find his adventures not only on his YouTube channel Fearless & Far but also on The Weather Channel’s Uncharted Adventure, BBC World’s The Travel Show, and Wondery Network’s Against the Odds Podcast.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mike Corey |
| Known As | Fearless & Far |
| Age | 39 years old |
| Birthday | August 24, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Fredericton, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Profession | YouTuber, Traveler, TV Host, Podcaster |
Early Life and Career (Before Travel)
Before becoming a full-time traveler, Mike Corey was a marine biologist with a deep curiosity about the world. He earned a Bachelor of Science in marine biology and spent years volunteering for ocean conservation projects around the world. However, after a transformative trip to an off-the-grid destination, he realized his true passion lay in adventure and storytelling, not scientific research.
Mike’s early success in travel video competitions encouraged him to launch his YouTube channel, originally named Kick the Grind, before rebranding it to Fearless & Far in 2018.
The Journey to Becoming a Travel Vlogger
Mike Corey began his travel journey with small trips, gradually pushing his limits by seeking out unexplored and unconventional adventures. He documented his experiences, learning video editing and storytelling along the way.
Major Milestones in His Travel Journey
| Year | Major Adventure | Mode of Travel |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | First solo backpacking trip | Public transport |
| 2019 | First extreme cultural immersion | Flights & local transport |
| 2022 | Documenting hidden tribal rituals | Private guides & locals |
Through trial and error, Mike built a recognizable brand in the travel vlogging space, Fearless & Far.
Notable Adventures and Challenges
Mike Corey’s travels are filled with extraordinary adventures, but also unexpected challenges.
Most Daring Adventures
Mike Corey has ventured into some of the world’s most extreme experiences, from freezing with Mongolia’s Eagle Hunters to receiving a hand-tapped tattoo from Whang-Od in the Philippines. He has explored sacred Voodoo rituals in West Africa, camped in abandoned castles, and endured the Kambo frog venom ritual in the Amazon.
Always pushing limits, he braved Mexico’s Exploding Hammer Festival and even dived into toxic hydrogen sulfide-rich waters, proving that true adventure begins where fear takes hold.
Challenges Overcome
Mike Corey has faced visa rejections, financial struggles, and cultural risks while venturing into remote regions.
He has been shot at by military police in Turkey, lost in the Congo, and battled a severe MRSA infection. Navigating authenticity in travel content while overcoming physical and financial setbacks has tested his resilience, yet he continues to embrace fear as a guide to the extraordinary.
“Fear is the best compass. The best experiences lie just beyond your comfort zone.” – Mike Corey
How Fearless & Far Sustains His Travels (Income Sources & Net Worth)
While his adventures take him across continents, his influence extends beyond the road, transforming his journey into a thriving travel brand. From YouTube ad revenue to sponsorships, and TV hosting, Mike has successfully turned his passion into a sustainable career.
Mike Corey has built a thriving travel brand through multiple income streams. His YouTube channel earns from millions of views, while brand sponsorships and TV hosting on BBC and The Weather Channel expand his reach.
He also profits from affiliate marketing, Patreon-exclusive content, and speaking engagements at global travel events, solidifying his influence as an explorer and storyteller.
His estimated monthly earnings range from $10,000 – $40,000, depending on brand deals and video performance.
Personal Life
Mike Corey primarily travels solo but collaborates with local guides and teams for large-scale productions. While he has embraced the nomadic lifestyle, he maintains close connections with his three siblings and family, despite the challenges of constant travel.
Recently, Mike shared his relationship with Amira (@traveleroflove), expressing gratitude for her support and warmth even when he’s traveling in remote regions.
“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)
Though travel remains his primary focus, Mike values the relationships he builds along the way, proving that adventure and connection can coexist.
Lessons for Aspiring Nomad Travelers
Here are key takeaways from Mike’s journey for anyone dreaming of a nomadic lifestyle:
- Start with what you have – Expensive gear isn’t necessary to begin vlogging.
- Be adaptable – Travel is unpredictable; flexibility is key.
- Monetize your passion – Find ways to earn while traveling.
- Prioritize safety – Research cultures, laws, and risks before traveling.
- Embrace uncertainty – Growth happens outside your comfort zone.
Where to Follow Fearless & Far
📍 YouTube: Fearless & Far
📍 Instagram: @fearlessandfar
📍 Website: www.fearlessandfar.com
“The best stories lie just beyond fear. If you never step outside your comfort zone, you’ll never know what’s possible.”
Mike Corey proves that fearless travel is not just about destinations, but about conquering fears and embracing the unknown.
Don’t Miss These Nomad Travelers
If you love Fearless & Far, here are more inspiring travel creators to follow:
- Itchy Boots – Noraly Schoenmaker’s solo motorcycle adventures across the globe.
- Luke Martin – A food and travel vlogger exploring cultures through cuisine.
- Field Days (Mat Field) – Off-grid living and adventure storytelling at its best.
Discover more epic nomadic journeys and fearless explorers!
