19/06/2025
For those of you who are new to the Rooted Life Adventures family, we're delighted to introduce you to our Executive Director, Austin Rogers.
A Baylor University graduate with a degree in International Studies, Austin's career has been dedicated to enriching the lives of young adults through global adventure and experiential learning. Leaving her hometown of Dallas, Texas, to seek global experiences, Austin found her passion in New Zealand. It is here she became immersed in the international gap year community. Over five years, Austin managed transformative 70-day programs for hundreds of U.S. students, guiding them through multi-country adventures.
Through these international journeys, Austin developed a profound sense of self, belonging, and purpose. However, she also observed an increasing number of adolescents grappling with mental health challenges. There was a growing need for enhanced mental health support. Realizing the absence of programs bridging traditional gap years and intensive adventure therapy, Austin's mission became clear. It was to create a therapeutic gap year program.
Fast forward & Rooted Life Adventures now stands out as the first program to feature a therapeutic coach on-site 24/7, facilitating group cohesion and delivering psychoeducational core curriculum and wellness workshops. RLA students learn responsibility, accountability, and transparency, which foster authentic connections. All whilst having fun and by challenging their limits through adventurous activities.
Austin's personal journey, professional expertise, and passion for purposeful work culminate in Rooted Life Adventures. Her leadership ensures that each participant not only embarks on thrilling adventures but also receives the mental and emotional support needed to thrive, rediscovering their vibrancy and joy 💚
