Pathfinder Exploration Community was born out of a simple yet profound question: What if we could amplify the voices of everyday heroes who are shaping a better world, one story at a time? This question, coupled with a deep passion for storytelling and a belief in the power of data to drive positive change, led to the creation of a platform dedicated to celebrating those who are using their unique talents to make a difference.

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A Personal Journey to Purpose

The seeds of Pathfinders were sown in the childhood of its founder, Jeff Lamb, who, at just seven years old, created his first map—an intricate portrayal of the river system where he spent his days exploring nature, catching fish, and chasing bullfrogs. This connection to the land grew as Jeff’s life took him to remote parts of British Columbia, where he continued mapping the natural world around him. These early experiences ignited a lifelong passion for geography, data, and the stories they tell.

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Over the decades, Jeff built a career in GIS and data strategy, helping governments and organizations navigate complex challenges. However, as time went on, he began to notice a troubling trend: data was increasingly being concentrated in the hands of a few, used in ways that sometimes eroded trust and missed opportunities for societal good. This realization became a call to action.

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​A Platform for Change

Pathfinder Exploration Community was officially launched as a podcast platform, designed to spotlight everyday heroes who embody these PATH values. These are individuals using data, technology, and their own tenacity to solve societal challenges, protect the planet, and inspire others to take meaningful action.

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Through its templated interview process, Pathfinders gives its hosts and guests a framework to explore not just what people do, but why they do it—their motivations, challenges, and the humility they’ve gained along the way. Each story is a testament to the human spirit and a call to action for others to become changemakers in their own communities.

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A Mission to Build Community

Pathfinders is more than a podcast; it’s a movement. It seeks to create a global network of storytellers and listeners, united by the belief that sharing stories can inspire collective action. By amplifying voices across industries—from GIS and AI to education and urban planning—Pathfinders aims to highlight the power of data and collaboration to create a better future.

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As Pathfinders expands into new verticals, it remains rooted in its core mission: to give a global spotlight to those who are leading with integrity, passion, and purpose. Whether through podcasts, live events like Data for Good, or new initiatives like Women Shaping the Future of Responsible AI, Pathfinders is forging connections, fostering collaboration, and building a world where data and stories become forces for good.

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The Road Ahead

Pathfinder Exploration Community is still on its journey, evolving with each new story told. It’s a reminder that everyone, in their own way, can be a pathfinder—someone willing to lead the way, confront challenges, and create positive change for others. And as Jeff Lamb and the growing Pathfinders community like to say: The map is still being drawn