Songwriter, Mike Posner is walking America. Starting in Asbury, New Jersey, his destination is set for Venice Beach, California. Many are confused why he’s decided to take on this grueling adventure.

I’m hoping to fall in love with the present moment.

Most known for his hit songs “Cooler Than Me” and “I Took A Pill In Ibiza”, Posner has experienced a few back-to-back devastating loses.

After the death of his father in 2017, Posner’s troubles came to a tipping point when he lost a good friend and producer, Avicii, to suicide.

Then his 26-year-old friend, rapper Mac Miller died of an accidental overdose. Posner saw the flaws in his own lifestyle, understood he wasn’t happy and realized he needed to do something about it.

Claiming that becoming famous has ruined his life, Posner gave up his phone, electricity and running water while he spent considerable time in a Buddhist monastery to find emotional peace.

Posner states that most of his life he’s been on a mission to achieve superficial success, and with this walk he hopes to continue becoming enlightened, continuing true appreciation for life.

I’m not walking to show people who I am. I’m walking to find out who I’ll become.

Sporting a very different look than his familiar clean-shaven face and well-kept hair, Posner will be performing secret, free acoustic concerts along his way.

If you’re hoping to walk with Posner for a mile or two, this map shows exactly where he is on his route.

Update: Mike Posner was bitten by a small rattlesnake while walking in Colorado. He was airlifted to the hospital where he received anti-venom in time before the poison caused any severe damage.

Posner is now back on his journey after weeks in the hospital recovering from the bite.