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Meet Rusty Johnson: The Adventurer Behind Travel Channel's Hotel Amazon


Rusty shooting an episode of HOTEL AMAZON
Rusty shooting an episode of HOTEL AMAZON

Rusty Johnson is a name synonymous with adventure, wilderness, and unyielding passion for the natural world. Best known for his role in the Travel Channel's TV series "Hotel Amazon," Rusty has carved a niche for himself as a modern-day explorer and conservationist. His journey, rich with experiences and challenges, extends far beyond television. Rusty is also an accomplished author and the driving force behind a new Patreon initiative aimed at bringing the wonders of wildlife to homeschoolers. In this blog post, we'll delve into Rusty's fascinating life, his notable achievements, his compelling book, and his exciting new project.


The Early Years: A Foundation of Curiosity and Courage

Rusty with his 1st snake "Sam"
Rusty with his 1st snake "Sam"

Rusty's journey into the wild began at a young age. Growing up, he was captivated by the natural world, spending countless hours exploring the woods near his home. This early fascination with wildlife and adventure set the stage for his future endeavors. Unlike many of his peers, Rusty found solace and excitement in nature, which became his classroom and playground.



Rusty at 19yrs with his baby Andean Condor
Rusty at 19yrs with his baby Andean Condor

As he grew older, Rusty's passion for wildlife led him to pursue studies in ecology and conservation. He quickly realized that traditional education alone wouldn't satisfy his thirst for adventure. He wanted to be in the field, experiencing the raw beauty and challenges of the natural world firsthand. This desire propelled him into a career that would take him to some of the most remote and uncharted territories on the planet.


Author and Advocate: The Twilight of the Wild

Rusty also shares his passion for the natural world through his writing. His book, "The Twilight of the Wild," is a testament to his deep connection with nature and his commitment to conservation. The book is a riveting account of his adventures, offering readers a glimpse into the extraordinary experiences that have shaped his life.

Rusty with "Thunder" a Siberian Tiger
Rusty with "Thunder" a Siberian Tiger

In "The Twilight of the Wild," Rusty shares stories from his time in Africa and other remote locations. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of wildlife encounters, the challenges of living off the grid, and the profound lessons learned from nature. Through his writing, Rusty aims to inspire others to appreciate and protect the world's wild places.


The book has garnered praise for its authenticity and heartfelt storytelling. Readers are transported into Rusty's world, where the beauty and brutality of nature coexist. "The Twilight of the Wild" is more than just an adventure memoir; it's a call to action for conservation and a reminder of the intrinsic value of our planet's biodiversity.

Rusty's Patreon Discovering Wildlife
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Discovering Wildlife: A New Chapter on Patreon


Rusty on a Amazon night excursion
Rusty on a Amazon night excursion

Rusty's latest venture is a Patreon community called "Discovering Wildlife," designed specifically for homeschoolers. This initiative aims to bring the wonders of the natural world directly into homes, offering an immersive educational experience for children and families. Rusty's goal is to foster a love for wildlife and conservation among the next generation, using his expertise and experiences as a guide.




Native girls looking at Rusty's videos
Native girls looking at Rusty's videos

The Patreon platform allows Rusty to share exclusive content with his supporters, including behind-the-scenes footage, interactive lessons, and virtual field trips. Subscribers gain access to a wealth of resources that make learning about wildlife engaging and accessible. From detailed explorations of different ecosystems to in-depth looks at various species, "Discovering Wildlife" offers a comprehensive educational experience.


One of the standout features of Rusty's Patreon is the interactive component. Members can participate in live Q&A sessions, where they can ask Rusty questions about his adventures and gain insights into the natural world. This direct interaction makes learning personal and dynamic, allowing children to connect with a real-life explorer and conservationist.

Embracing Challenges:


Rusty's Personal Journey with ADD and Dyslexia


Rusty's achievements are even more remarkable when considering the personal challenges he has overcome. Diagnosed with ADD and dyslexia, Rusty has faced significant hurdles in his educational and professional journey. These conditions, which often made traditional learning environments difficult, became sources of strength and resilience for him.


Rusty has openly shared his experiences with ADD and dyslexia, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire others facing similar challenges. He emphasizes the importance of embracing one's unique abilities and finding creative solutions to overcome obstacles. Rusty's story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to extraordinary accomplishments, regardless of the challenges one may face.


A Celebrated Live Wildlife Lecturer


Rusty lecturing for Cornell
Rusty lecturing for Cornell

Rusty Johnson's journey as an adventurer, author, and television personality has brought him into the spotlight in many ways. Among his numerous roles, his success and impact as a live wildlife lecturer stand out. Rusty's passion for the natural world, combined with his captivating storytelling and firsthand experiences, have made him a sought-after speaker in the realm of wildlife education and conservation. His lectures, filled with vivid anecdotes and powerful messages, leave audiences inspired and more connected to the natural world.


A Journey Rooted in Passion


Rusty's journey as a wildlife lecturer began with his deep-rooted passion for nature and his desire to share it with others. His early fascination with the outdoors, coupled with a thirst for knowledge and adventure, led him to explore some of the most remote and diverse ecosystems on the planet. These experiences provided him with a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of stories that he eagerly shares with his audiences.

One of Rusty's Wildlife lectures
One of Rusty's Wildlife lectures

Engaging and Educational Lectures


As a live wildlife lecturer, Rusty brings his adventures to life with an unparalleled ability to engage and educate his audience. His lectures are not just presentations; they are immersive experiences. Rusty's storytelling is enriched by his personal encounters with wildlife, detailed descriptions of remote habitats, and the challenges he has faced in the field. He uses a blend of humor, suspense, and heartfelt moments to captivate his listeners, ensuring that each lecture is both entertaining and informative.


Rusty's ability to connect with a wide range of audiences sets him apart. Whether speaking to schoolchildren, college students, or adult conservation enthusiasts, he tailors his message to resonate with each group. His lectures often include stunning visuals, such as photographs and videos from his expeditions, which enhance the storytelling and provide a deeper understanding of the topics he discusses.


Impact on Conservation Awareness

Rusty with the Ambassador of Nepal and his wife.
Rusty with the Ambassador of Nepal and his wife.

One of the hallmarks of Rusty's success as a lecturer is his impact on conservation awareness. His talks are not just about sharing his adventures; they are about instilling a sense of responsibility and urgency in protecting the natural world. Rusty emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts, sustainable living, and the need to preserve biodiversity for future generations.


His message is clear and compelling: every individual can make a difference. Rusty encourages his audiences to take actionable steps, whether through supporting conservation organizations, reducing their environmental footprint, or simply fostering a greater appreciation for nature. His ability to inspire change is evident in the feedback he receives from his audiences, many of whom leave his lectures motivated to get involved in conservation efforts.


Recognition and Acclaim


Rusty's success as a wildlife lecturer has been recognized through various accolades and invitations to speak at prestigious events. In addition to over 3,000 public and private school lectures, he has been a featured speaker at environmental conferences, wildlife symposiums, and educational institutions such as Princeton University, The Explorers Club, and the Amaerican Museum of Natural History.


In addition to live lectures, Rusty has been invited to appear on numerous television shows such as Late Night with David Letterman, The Late Show with Conan O'Brian, Regis and Kathy Lee, and The Today Show. His contributions to media outlets further solidify his role as a trusted expert and advocate for the natural world.


Connecting with the Next Generation

Rusty Johnson's son

One of Rusty's most significant contributions as a lecturer is his ability to connect with young audiences. Recognizing the importance of educating the next generation about wildlife and conservation, he dedicates a considerable portion of his efforts to speaking at schools and youth programs. His enthusiasm and relatable storytelling make complex ecological concepts accessible and exciting for children and teenagers.


Rusty's impact on young minds is profound. By igniting a passion for nature and conservation in the next generation, he ensures that his message of environmental stewardship will continue to resonate long into the future. His lectures often inspire young people to pursue careers in wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation, contributing to the ongoing efforts to protect our planet.


A Legacy of Inspiration


Rusty with his 3-toed Sloth
Rusty with his 3-toed Sloth

Rusty Johnson's success as a live wildlife lecturer is a testament to his unwavering dedication to nature and conservation. His ability to captivate audiences with his stories, educate them on critical environmental issues, and inspire actionable change sets him apart as a true leader in the field. Through his lectures, Rusty continues to make a lasting impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and empowering individuals to become advocates for its protection.


As he continues to share his adventures and insights with audiences around the globe, Rusty's legacy as a wildlife lecturer grows stronger. His passion for the natural world and his commitment to conservation serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity for generations to come.


Rusty with his Two-toed Sloth
A Two-toed Sloth

Rusty Johnson's life is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection with the natural world. From his early days of exploring the woods to his adventures in the Amazon and beyond, Rusty has remained steadfast in his commitment to wildlife and conservation.


Through "Hotel Amazon," his book "The Twilight of the Wild," and his new Patreon initiative "Discovering Wildlife," Rusty continues to inspire and educate others about the beauty and importance of our planet's wild places.



As Rusty embarks on this new chapter, he invites us all to join him on a journey of discovery and learning. By supporting his Patreon community, we not only gain access to valuable educational resources but also become part of a larger movement to protect and cherish the natural world. Rusty's story is a call to action for each of us to explore, appreciate, and conserve the wonders of wildlife for future generations. Join Rusty Today!

Join Rusty's Patreon Today

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