Inspired by Rick Steves and a lifelong love of public media, Nebraska supporter Paul Schinkel reflects on travel, legacy and the importance of giving back through planned giving.
Paul Schinkel still remembers the idea that sent him halfway around the world.
After retiring, the Kearney resident was searching for a new adventure when he watched public media travel expert Rick Steves feature Spain’s famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. “It piqued my interest,” Schinkel said. “I started researching it on YouTube and decided that’s what I wanted to try.”
The Camino de Santiago is a network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe and converging at the tomb of St. James.
Two years later, Schinkel set out alone, walking nearly 500 miles. Beginning in France, he crossed into Spain and spent 40 days traversing the historic route. “I’m kind of an introvert and I value my solitude,” he said. “I just enjoyed being in the now and enjoying nature.”
Preparing for the ambitious journey prompted Schinkel to think about the future. Before leaving, he worked with a local attorney to create a will and chose to include Nebraska Public Media as part of his estate plans.
“They’re valuable to me,” Schinkel said. “I wanted to pass on some kind of a legacy.”
Schinkel’s decision was personal. After losing a brother who died without a will, he understood the importance of planning ahead. Having his affairs in order brought reassurance. “It gave me peace of mind,” he said.
Born in Loup City, Schinkel spent most of his life in central Nebraska. Following a 23-year military career, he worked at Eaton Corporation for 39 years as a maintenance technician and in various engineering roles before retiring in 2021. Today, he keeps busy traveling, volunteering and spending time with his children and grandchildren, all of whom live in Nebraska.
A longtime Nebraska Public Media supporter, Schinkel first became a public radio listener, tuning in for classical music and news programs. Television came later.
“I probably was into the radio more,” he said. “But then I discovered Rick Steves and all the other things on public television.”
Today, he rarely misses NATURE, NOVA or PBS News Hour. “I don’t only want to be entertained but possibly learn how to do something or learn somebody else’s perspective,” he said.
He also frequently uses PBS Passport to catch up on favorite programs like All Creatures Great and Small. “It’s really a way to escape,” he said.
Published August 2026