July 30, 2025
Asking Icelandic Strangers About Their Happiest Memories – Anne Marie's Travel Experiment

In this episode, Andrew sits down with Anne Marie Wells to hear about her solo hitchhiking trip across Iceland, where she spent weeks asking strangers one question: “What is your happiest memory?”. From there, she would venture out to visit the scene of the memory. Anne Marie shares the emotional highs and quiet moments that defined her trip and how curiosity and courage opened doors she never expected.
Guest: Anne Marie Wells
- Poet, playwright, and author
- Creator of the books Write Some Cool Sh!t and Mommy, Why am I a Bird?
- Upcoming memoir Happy Iceland
- Website: annemariewellswriter.com
Topics Covered:
- Why Anne Marie chose to spend her 30th birthday in Iceland
- The origin of her “happiest memory” question
- Conversations with strangers across Iceland’s landscapes
- Unplanned encounters and the kindness of locals
- The emotional impact of traveling solo with purpose
- How the experiment became a forthcoming book
- Lessons on spontaneity, reflection, and joyful connection
Resources and Links:
- Anne Marie’s website: annemariewellswriter.com
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