Chris Rainier is a National Geographic Society Fellow, cultural photographer, and a co-director of the National Geographic Enduring Voices Project, documenting endangered languages and cultures. He also directs National Geographic’s All Roads Photography Program, which supports minority photographers and filmmakers around the globe. A Contributing Editor for National Geographic Traveler, and a Contributing Photographer for National Geographic Adventure, Chris also serves as a photography consultant on National Public Radio’s Day to Day Show. He has traveled to all seven continents, and participated in extensive expeditions throughout Africa, Antarctica and New Guinea. Among his numerous awards is the prestigious Lowell Thomas Award, given by the Explorers Club for adventure stories. His work has been displayed around the world, from the Australian Museum in Sydney and The Biblotheque Nationale in Paris to the United Nations.

Carsten Stehr is a veteran of educational private jet and yacht travel, and has been leading travelers to every corner of the globe since 1995. He was born in Berlin, Germany, and is fluent in English, German, and Greek. Carsten holds a BFA in Painting from the Rhode Island School of Design, and resides on the Greek Island of Mykonos, where he pursues his art and manages his champagne bar, "Jackie O." Carsten's experience in leading, scouting, and advancing trips worldwide, combined with his extensive art and business background and keen interest in the cultures, architecture, and history of the world make him an invaluable asset to the success of our expeditions.