The Rally Staff

Aaron Pufal

Aaron Pufal – Podcaster, Rally Master, and Former Yacht Captain

Aaron Pufal is a storyteller, adventurer, and creative visionary whose life and work embody the pursuit of meaning through motion. As the host and producer of the ADV Cannonball Podcast, he has built a reputation for turning raw, real-world adventure into rich cinematic storytelling, capturing the grit, humor, and humanity of long-distance motorcyclists pushing themselves across continents. His work blends the authenticity of travel writing with the tension and intimacy of narrative fiction, creating a bridge between modern adventure culture and timeless storytelling.

Before stepping into the world of podcasting and event creation, Aaron spent over two decades as a professional yacht captain, commanding vessels for some of the world’s wealthiest families. His maritime career took him from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the storied harbors of the Mediterranean and the rugged coasts of the Pacific Northwest. In that world of quiet luxury and constant movement, Aaron developed a sharp understanding of logistics, leadership, and human psychology. The insight he gained from navigating both storms and social hierarchies now informs much of his writing and storytelling; revealing the contrast between privilege and perseverance, comfort and authenticity.

Today, Aaron channels his hard-won experience into the ADV Cannonball Rally, a coast-to-coast motorcycle endurance event that celebrates self-reliance, endurance, and the spirit of adventure. The rally attracts riders from around the world who share one common goal: to test their limits on the open road. Under Aaron’s leadership, the Cannonball has become both a competition and a community, part endurance rally, part pilgrimage for those drawn to challenge and camaraderie.

When he’s not organizing events or recording new episodes, Aaron is writing a novel that blends his deep love of adventure motorcycling with the intrigue of espionage and personal redemption. He divides his time between Canada, the Pacific Northwest, and the open road, chasing stories that explore the boundaries between man, machine, and meaning. Whether at sea, on a mountain pass, or behind a microphone, Aaron Pufal remains true to his core philosophy: the road is not an escape, it’s where life is lived most honestly.