Outward Bound and Me

In this episode of Outward Bound and Me, alumna Arianna McCulloch explains how an epiphany during her Skills for Life expedition at Outward Bound Loch Eil in 2019, led to a moment of clarity and redirection. Facing the daunting prospect of returning to an unsettled home in a wee Scottish Boarder fishing village, she decided to seek the bright lights, and a different future.
 
“It was the first time in my life that I had so much clarity on something. It felt like I had a cloud of smoke over my head, and then it was the first time that cloud of smoke had cleared. I was like ‘wow’, I can just see exactly what I want to do, and the worry wasn't there. I just think I was so sure of myself for the first time ever, and so sure in what I wanted to do”.
 
Arianna describes learning resilience, determination, and self-belief through challenging and fun situations, and a pivotal conversation with an instructor which has led to a bustling career as a touring actress. Tune in to hear Arianna reflect on lasting friendships, and encourage young people to say ‘yes’ to opportunities and to trust themselves, like she did.

Creators and Guests

Host
Dylan Carroll
Dylan Carroll is the Head of Partnerships at The Outward Bound Trust, leading the Corporate, Trusts & Foundations, Alumni and Legacy teams. Following a career in sales and marketing working across Europe, he now has 20 years fundraising leadership experience, working previously at Barnardo’s, as a consultant, and chairing the Institute of Fundraising. Dylan believes in the power of storytelling to showcase the impact an Outward Bound experience can have on individuals at a pivotal time in their lives, and how Outward Bound pedagogy has influenced countless futures, career, and life choices. He hopes that through this podcast, individual stories of resilience, failure and success, adventure and fun, will be shared with a wider audience, so that people will think on their own connection to the charity, the outdoors and nature, and possibly their own lives and autobiography, and the impact they have on others. The stories in this podcast are individual, but contribute to a collective 85 year tapestry of a charity that has had a lasting impact on many lives.
Guest
Arianna McCulloch
From a challenging childhood to a blossoming career treading the boards, starring in theatre and film productions across the UK, Arianna McCulloch is an aspiring and multifaceted actor, growing her repertoire and influence. Arianna is also a talented workshop facilitator who, by sharing her story, inspires young people to step confidently into who they are, and own their unique potential. Arianna combines her talent for performance with a special drive to help and support others. Arianna is an Outward Bound alumna having completed her 19 day Skills for Life course at Loch Eil in 2019. On her course she decided to follow her dreams and leave school on return to her fishing village home in the Scottish Boarders to seek a new start. Arianna credits Outward Bound for empowering her to find her self-belief, and a chance to learn so many life skills she has implement in her life, and instilled in others. Arianna has stayed close to the charity ever since her course, volunteering and advocating for Outward Bound, and sharing her story at events. One to watch now, and definitely in the future; Hollywood and the Oscars beckon!

What is Outward Bound and Me?

Outward Bound & Me is a fortnightly podcast where host Dylan Carroll speaks with Outward Bound alumni from across the decades. Each episode delves into powerful stories of life before, during, and after their time on course—from personal breakthroughs to hilarious moments in the wild. Whether you’re a former participant, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about how adventure shapes lives, this podcast offers inspiration, reflection, and a deeper look into the legacy of Outward Bound since 1941.