Travel With Meaning

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Most people think travel is about seeing more places. It's not. The journeys that stay with us the longest are the ones that change how we see ourselves and the people around us. In this episode, Bruce Poon Tip, founder of G Adventures, shares why meaningful travel isn't about luxury or checklists—it's about curiosity, connection, and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Bruce reflects on the backpacking trip that inspired him to build G Adventures, why small group travel creates deeper cultural experiences, and how travel can become a force for good by supporting local communities. He also explains why the travel industry should focus less on transactions and more on transformation, and how purpose, entrepreneurship, and community have shaped his life's work.

If you've ever wondered how travel can expand your perspective, build empathy, and create lasting impact—for both travelers and the places they visit—this conversation offers a powerful reminder that the greatest souvenir is often a new way of seeing the world.

Chapters 00:00 – Why travel is true freedom 01:45 – Building G Adventures from a backpacking dream 09:03 – The trip that changed everything 14:41 – Why travel should transform, not entertain 22:07 – Reinventing tourism through community 31:41 – How COVID reshaped G Adventures 35:14 – What transformational travel really means 39:34 – The journey that changed Bruce's life 42:28 – Why travel creates empathy and understanding 48:38 – Bruce's favorite places, travel tips, and rapid fire

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What can food teach us about culture, connection, and living a meaningful life?

Recorded inside Baldi Restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, this episode of Travel With Meaning features acclaimed chef and restaurateur Edoardo Baldi.

Born in Seravezza and raised in Forte dei Marmi on the Tuscan coast, Chef Edo's earliest memories are rooted in family, food, and community. From trips to the local market with his mother to learning recipes from his mother and grandmothers, those formative experiences shaped not only his love of cooking but also his understanding that food is one of the most powerful ways we connect with others.

At the age of ten, his family moved to Los Angeles, bringing with them the traditions, flavors, and hospitality of Italy. Today, Chef Edo is known for creating authentic Italian dining experiences that celebrate simplicity, seasonality, and the joy of gathering around a table.

In this conversation, we explore his journey from Tuscany to Los Angeles, the influence of family on his career, the importance of preserving cultural traditions, and why hospitality is ultimately an act of generosity and love.

We also discuss travel, identity, and how the places we come from continue to shape who we become.

Topics discussed include: • Growing up in Tuscany and moving to Los Angeles • Family traditions and Italian culture • The connection between food and community • Hospitality as a way of life • Simplicity and authenticity in Italian cuisine • Travel, heritage, and personal identity

Whether you're passionate about food, travel, culture, or meaningful conversations, this episode is a reminder that some of life's greatest connections are made around a shared meal.

Enjoy my conversation with Chef Edoardo Baldi.

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Welcome to another episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast.

This episode was recorded live in front of an audience at The Kinn in Venice Beach as part of their weekly Startup Café series, featuring conversations with founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

Our guest is Keith Eshelman, Founder and CEO of Parks Project, the purpose-driven outdoor lifestyle and apparel brand that has given back nearly $3 million to support our national parks. Prior to launching Parks Project, Keith built his career with brands including TOMS, Quiksilver, and Puma. As a lifelong outdoor enthusiast and adventurer, Keith recognized a growing need to support and protect our public lands after a meaningful trip with his daughter—a story he also shares in Parks Project's 10-Year Anniversary video. Click here to watch.

In this conversation, Keith shares his founder story behind Parks Project, which organically began in a small apartment just across the street from where our episode was recorded. We discuss restoration projects, and conservation efforts that Parks Project and its community have supported over the years.

Keith also shares some powerful lessons for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike, including the importance of confidence, taking risks, and not accepting "no" as the final answer. We hear about several of the meaningful travel experiences that have shaped his perspective and influenced both his personal journey and professional path.

We also dive into the launch of Parks Project Trips, something Keith has envisioned for quite some time. He shares why now feels like the right moment to bring people together through intimate, shared experiences in nature and create deeper connections with both the outdoors and one another.

Full transparency: TWM is helping curate unique adventures alongside the Parks Project team. This fall we'll be visiting Sequoia National Park and Joshua Tree National Park, staying at the incredibly cool AutoCamp properties. If either of these iconic parks has been on your bucket list—or if you're simply looking to connect with a community of like-minded adventurers—these trips offer a special opportunity to experience nature in a meaningful way.

To learn more about Parks Project Trips and upcoming adventures, visit parksproject.us.

Enjoy our conversation with Keith Eshelman, Founder and CEO of Parks Project.

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From the moment you arrive in St. Anton, something shifts.

In this episode of Travel With Meaning, Mike shares conversations from the Mountain Yoga Festival in Austria — where nature, community, and presence come together in a way that's hard to explain but easy to feel.

Through voices of locals, teachers, and travelers, this episode explores the deeper side of travel: belonging, slowing down, and reconnecting with what actually matters. Sometimes the most meaningful destinations aren't about what you see — but what you feel.

00:00 – Arriving in St. Anton and feeling it instantly 03:15 – How the Mountain Yoga Festival began 07:45 – Why nature + community create belonging 11:00 – Travel, identity, and coming home to yourself 15:30 – The connection between nature, yoga, and presence 20:00 – Why Austria feels different

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Welcome to Chapter 2 of the Travel With Meaning podcast.

This isn't a full episode — it's the beginning of what's ahead. A real conversation about where we've been, the heartache and human moments we've been navigating, and the search for meaning through it all.

This year, we're taking a more intentional approach to travel, storytelling, and connection — with extraordinary adventures and incredible conversations on the horizon.

Thanks for being here for the next chapter.

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Mike sits down with Lawrence Longo, a serial food and hospitality entrepreneur whose journey from hidden menu curator to restaurant empire builder has reshaped how people connect through food.

Lawrence shares how his early obsession with experience over ego led him from launching Off the Menu — a community built around secret dishes and insider dining — to reviving Irv's Burgers, expanding Prince St. Pizza nationwide, and building a hospitality group that's redefining what "premium fast food" really means.

They dive into the lessons learned from scaling beloved brands without losing their soul, the role of storytelling and community in hospitality, and what travel and culture have taught Lawrence about simplicity, obsession, and belonging.

This episode isn't just about food — it's about the universal language of connection, the places that shape us, and the people who keep showing up for what feels real.

Chapters: 00:00 – From hidden menus to hospitality visionary 05:00 – The story behind Off the Menu and food as connection 10:00 – Reviving Irv's Burgers and honoring old-school soul 15:00 – Expanding Prince St. Pizza without losing authenticity 20:00 – Scaling restaurants while keeping local roots 25:00 – Simplicity, obsession, and the power of hospitality 30:00 – Partner alignment and trusting local voices 35:00 – The community mindset behind every concept 40:00 – The travel that shaped a hospitality entrepreneur 45:00 – What it really means to build brands people love

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In this deeply personal episode, Mike returns to his childhood home in Pacific Palisades — a place that once symbolized comfort, community, and family — now forever changed by one of the most devastating wildfires in U.S. history.

Through intimate conversations with his mother (and her experience of living in the Palisades for over 50 years), as well as his childhood best friend, photographer Chris Clinton, Mike explores themes of loss, resilience, and the unshakable spirit of community. Together, they reflect on growing up in the Palisades, the day the fire struck, and what it means to rebuild not just homes, but hope.

This is a story about memory, change, and finding connection in the aftermath of tragedy — a love letter to a place that shaped a lifetime of meaning.

Click here to read the New York Post article about Chris

Chapters: 00:00 – Returning home to the Palisades 04:00 – A call from Mom: loss, displacement, and silver linings 08:00 – Rebuilding community after the fire 10:00 – A conversation with childhood friend Chris Clinton 15:00 – Growing up in the Palisades 18:00 – The day the fire hit 24:00 – Escaping the flames and saving what remains 30:00 – The aftermath: grief, survival, and resilience 40:00 – What we lost — and what remains 48:00 – Finding meaning, healing, and home again

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Ever wondered what it's like to record a podcast at 38,000 feet? Host Mike Schibel takes Travel With Meaning to new heights—literally—onboard Condor Airlines' flight from Frankfurt to Los Angeles on the sleek Airbus A330-900neo.

Joined by flight attendant Brendan Osborne, this episode captures the heart of travel, connection, and adventure midair.

Brendan shares what makes Condor stand out—from its stylish new striped fleet and boutique-style business class to its family-like culture and genuine hospitality. He also opens up about his personal journey from banking to flying, his most meaningful travel moments, and how travel represents freedom in his life. Plus, listeners get an inside look at Brendan's appearance on The Voice Germany and how he balances his passion for music with his career in the skies.

This episode celebrates wanderlust, storytelling, and the joy of seeing the world through new eyes—no passport required.

What to Listen For

[00:00:00] Mike introduces Travel With Meaning's first-ever in-flight recording

[00:02:14] The boutique comfort of Condor's new Airbus A330neo fleet

[00:03:32] Brendan shares the meaning behind Condor's colorful striped design

[00:04:43] How Condor's team culture creates a family-like atmosphere onboard

[00:05:41] Brendan's strategy for beating jet lag after long-haul flights

[00:06:19] His first solo flight and inspiration to become a flight attendant

[00:07:05] What "freedom through travel" means to him

[00:07:42] A magical moment watching the sunset from Table Mountain in Cape Town

[00:09:10] Brendan's journey on The Voice Germany and his upcoming single "Let It Go"

[00:11:36] Mike wraps up the journey from 38,000 feet and looks forward to the next adventure

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What happens when you trade speed for stillness? In this special episode, Mike shares his journey along the legendary Danube River aboard the Riverside Mozart. From the historic streets of Vienna to quiet castles and vineyards, this slow travel experience reveals why river cruising isn't just another trip — it's an invitation to breathe, connect, and be fully present.

Along the way, Mike talks with the Riverside crew, and fellow travelers to explore what makes this kind of journey different — from intimate hospitality and local cuisine to community, wellness, and moments under the stars. If you've ever dreamed of slowing down without missing out, this episode will make you rethink how you travel.

What to Listen For

[00:00:00] Welcome from Vienna and intro to Riverside Luxury Cruises

[00:01:18] Why Vienna sets the perfect tone for the journey

[00:03:07] Ocean vs. river cruising — the flow that changes everything

[00:04:31] Nicole on how Riverside exceeded expectations

[00:06:50] Intimate hospitality: Sonja explains why river cruising is different

[00:08:47] Communal spaces, music, and creating connection onboard

[00:10:06] Chef Johannes on local sourcing and authentic regional cuisine

[00:12:13] Wellness and slow travel — saunas, spas, and stillness

[00:13:48] The beauty of slowing down with someone you love

[00:15:16] A moment of stillness: Nicole's favorite memory on deck

[00:17:19] Chad on why river cruising reveals the world's hidden beauty

[00:18:28] Jenn on travel as a calling, not just a job

[00:19:54] Finding stillness, reflection, and your North Star on the river

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Recorded in front of a live audience at the KINN in Venice Beach as part of their weekly Startup Café series, this is a special Travel Talk episode hosted by Travel With Meaning, exploring how travel can spark entrepreneurial ideas. We discussed global brands like Starbucks, Tom’s Shoes, and Away Suitcases — all companies whose founders were inspired by travel. In this episode, our two guests share their own stories of how their journeys interweave with their businesses.

First, host Michael sits down with Jeffrey Chernick — serial entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and DJ — who shares the story of a business trip to Japan that didn’t go as planned but ultimately inspired his newest venture. That journey led him to partner with one of Japan’s largest travel platforms, Hafa, to launch Kabuk— a white-glove itinerary service offering personalized plans and exclusive hot deals. This could be one of the best turnkey solutions we’ve seen for travelers heading to Japan.

We want the Travel With Meaning community to try it out and get your personalized itinerary to start planning your Japan adventure. Here’s how:

Click this link
Click Meet Your Concierge (a real concierge — not AI)
Fill out a short survey about what you’d like to do and where you’d like to go in Japan
Add your email and make sure it includes the referral code for Travel With Meaning so you receive special attention, support, and are moved to the front of the line

Kabuk is poised to become one of the leading travel platforms in the U.S., and we’re getting an exclusive first look for a mainstream travel community.

Our second guest on this episode is Laura Grier, a renowned adventure photographer and founder of Andeana Hats, who's no stranger to the TWM community. Laura’s love for travel took her to Peru, where she became fascinated by the traditional hat culture of local women. Her “aha” moment turned into a business employing Peruvian artisans and returning income to their communities, often surpassing what the women’s husbands earn. Laura’s mission with Andeana Hats has also led to launching the nonprofit Maya Missions, further expanding her impact.

From Japan’s bustling cities to Peru’s mountain villages, this episode captures how transformative travel can lead to impactful, purpose-driven businesses.

Links & Resources:

• Andeana Hats: Click here

• Laura Grier's incredible photography: Click here

• Kabuk Travel Concierge: Click here

As always, we appreciate the community’s support — make sure you subscribe, follow us on all socials, and share this episode with friends and fellow travelers. See you on the open road.

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What happens when a world traveler finds himself detained in one of the most dangerous places on Earth—completely by accident?

What happens when a world traveler finds himself detained in one of the most dangerous places on Earth—completely by accident? In this gripping episode of Travel With Meaning, we sit down with Sam Goodwin, an American adventurer whose mission to visit every country in the world took an unexpected and harrowing turn. After successfully traveling to 193 countries, Sam’s journey led him to Syria—where a single misstep resulted in him being accused of espionage and held captive for 63 days. Through humor, humility, and powerful reflection, Sam shares not only how he endured this life-altering experience, but how it deepened his understanding of faith, freedom, and the resilience of the human spirit. His story is a testament to the transformative power of travel—even in its most extreme form—and to the unexpected kindness of strangers in the darkest of places.

What to Listen For

[00:00:00] Meet Sam Goodwin: How a spontaneous trip became a mission to visit every country

[00:06:34] What Sam learned about fear, perception, and hospitality in conflict zones

[00:13:20] The day everything changed: Sam’s mistaken entry into Syria and sudden arrest

[00:19:58] Inside a Syrian prison: survival tactics, mental challenges, and unexpected routines

[00:26:42] Faith under fire: how prayer, gratitude, and visualization kept him sane

[00:33:10] Release and reintegration: stepping out of captivity and into a new reality

[00:39:47] Life after prison: overcoming PTSD, finding purpose, and reclaiming identity

[00:46:11] Travel as a teacher: why Sam believes the world is safer than we think

[00:52:28] The power of human connection: how kindness changed his perspective forever

[00:58:55] Final reflections: what Sam wants every traveler to remember

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In this special Travel With Meaning podcast episode, recorded live in front of an intimate audience at The KINN in Venice Beach, we reconnect with Jessica Blotter — CEO and Co-Founder of Kind Traveler, and a returning guest on the show.

Jessica shares the powerful origin story of Kind Traveler, sparked by a life-changing trip that opened her eyes to a new way of thinking about travel. We catch up on the platform’s inspiring journey, including a meaningful pivot that has deepened its community impact and solidified its role as a leader in purpose-driven hospitality.

Through its award-winning Every Stay Gives Back™ program, Kind Traveler has partnered with destinations and hotels in 9 countries, raised over $700,000+ in donations to date for 100+ vetted nonprofits in just 20 months, and redefined what it means to travel with purpose.

From early startup challenges to bold pivots and global vision, Jessica’s story is packed with inspiration for conscious travelers, mission-driven entrepreneurs, and anyone who believes in doing good while seeing the world.

Tune in to hear how kindness, grit, and innovation can transform the way we travel. And discover what it means to travel kindly at KindTraveler.com.

If you like what you hear, please share and subscribe for more meaningful podcast conversations.

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On this episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, we sit down with Nick Monica, the founder and CEO of Gnarwhal Coffee and Companion Restaurant in Venice Beach. Recorded in front of a live audience at The Kinn, this inspiring conversation explores the meaningful experiences that shaped Nick’s path—from pivotal mentors and personal growth to the unforgettable road trip that inspired the name “Gnarwhal.”

Nick is a passionate explorer, entrepreneur, and community builder who’s brought his love of travel, storytelling, and connection into everything he creates at Gnarwhal Coffee. His journey is filled with lessons learned on the road, and he’s infused that spirit into a space that brings people together every day.

Please share, follow and subscribe for more inspiring travel stories

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In this episode of the Travel with Meaning podcast, we sit down with Henley Vazquez, co-founder of Fora Travel and a self-proclaimed hotel junkie. Henley’s journey into the travel industry was anything but conventional—from growing up on a farm in Virginia to building a cutting-edge travel agency that empowers advisors and travelers alike. Along the way, she shares stories of her early travel experiences, including a childhood trip to Cancun that didn't go quite as planned, and how she unexpectedly fell in love with the world of travel while working at a magazine.

Henley opens up about raising $13 million during the pandemic, the importance of community within the travel industry, and the exciting future of travel advising with new tools and technology. She also recounts her meaningful travel experiences, including a powerful trip to Rwanda and why the people you meet along the way are often the best part of the journey.

Tune in to hear Henley’s infectious passion for travel and learn how she’s helping others discover their own adventure—whether it’s booking luxury hotels or finding a hidden gem halfway across the globe.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and enjoy the ride with us!

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While recording the Celebrating Seattle series with Jeannette Ceja, in collaboration with Visit Seattle, we had the privilege of meeting inspiring business owners within Seattle’s Hispanic-Latino communities. We listened to their stories, explored the evolution of these vibrant communities in Seattle, and discovered what makes the city so special to them. In part 1 and part 2 of the series, we featured insightful conversations with Ana Castro from Salvadorean Bakery, Luis Rodriguez from Station Coffee Shop, and Jaime Mendez from Los Agaves. As a special addition, we recorded part of these interviews in Spanish to honor the wonderful locals we met. This episode, hosted by Jeannette Ceja, is recorded entirely in Spanish as a tribute to the thriving Spanish-speaking and Latino communities in the Emerald City, with Visit Seattle’s support. A huge thank you to Jeannette Ceja for your passion and dedication to this project, helping shine a spotlight on Hispanic-Latino travelers and communities.

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In this episode of the Travel with Meaning podcast, we sit down with Michaela Guzy, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, travel journalist, and founder of Oh! The People You Meet. Michaela’s global adventures have taken her to 119 countries, from the savannas of Africa to the lakes of Northern Michigan. In this episode, Michaela shares incredible stories, from navigating lost luggage with the help of social media to summiting mountains and encountering wildlife up close.

Michaela dives into her passion for sustainable travel and the human connections she’s made across the globe. She reflects on her journey from the corporate world to following her true calling in travel media, explaining why she believes every trip is an opportunity to grow. Join us for this inspiring conversation filled with laughter, unexpected moments, and insights into the beauty of human connection through travel.

Don’t miss this episode as Michaela Guzy takes us around the world with her most unforgettable experiences and lessons learned along the way!

Special thank you to this episode's sponsors: Smooth Move, the #1 tea for going #2. For more information visit www.Traditionalmedicinals.com/smoothmove to shop today and use SM20OFF for a 20% discount World Trips, Atlas Journey travel insurance, visit www.worldtrips.com to explore your coverage options and travel fearlessly with an Atlas Journey plan from WorldTrips. As always, we appreciate your support, please leave a rating, comment, and share the episodes you love. We look forward to seeing you on the open road!

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In Episode 119 of the Travel With Meaning podcast, we are thrilled to host Chef Lee Anne Wong, a culinary visionary known for her impactful journey from New York City's fine dining scene to the vibrant food culture of Maui. Chef Wong, a Top Chef alumna, shares her incredible story of moving to Hawaiʻi, opening Koko Head Cafe and eventually planting roots in Maui.

After the devastating 2023 wildfire that claimed her Lahaina restaurant, Chef Wong's resilience and dedication shone through as she tirelessly supported her community, cooking thousands of meals daily for displaced residents. She discusses her deep connection to Hawaiʻi, the importance of supporting local farmers, and her advocacy for mental health in the hospitality industry. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Chef Lee Anne Wong, where we explore her culinary adventures, community spirit, and the transformative power of food and travel. Tune in to be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture. The people and the spirit of Maui is strong – Maui is open and welcomes you back, now more than ever. Visit GoHawaii.com/Maui.

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In this special episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, host Mike Schibel brings you a unique blend of conversations with renowned chefs and a talented local musician from Maui. They highlight the depth of Maui’s culinary and cultural richness, reveal how Maui has impacted their lives, and share their stories of community resilience after the Lahaina wildfires.

Recorded at the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience, join us as we chat with, Chef Maneet Chauhan, Chef Stephanie Izard, Chef Jonathan Pasion from Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, and Chef Ryan Schelling from Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, as well as musician Ua Bradshaw from Maui. This episode is a celebration of the island’s resilient community—a community that invites travelers to return to Maui, now more than ever. Tune in to be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture.

Tune in to this heartfelt episode and be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture.

#TravelWithMeaning #TravelStories #MauiStrong #GoHawaii #VisitMaui

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In episode 117, we welcome Shalini Vadhera, a renowned global beauty expert and entrepreneur. Shalini's journey from a celebrity makeup artist to a leading figure in the beauty industry is truly inspiring. She shares her experiences growing up with a multicultural background and traveling the world, which shaped her unique perspective on beauty. Shalini discusses her brand, Ready, Set, Jet, aimed at empowering women through inclusive beauty solutions and entrepreneurship.

Join us as Shalini reveals the beauty secrets she's discovered globally and her commitment to celebrating diversity. This episode is a powerful exploration of the transformative impact of beauty, travel, and embracing what makes us unique. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Shalini Vadera, and be sure to check out Ready, Set, Jet for innovative beauty solutions.

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In episode 116, we are thrilled to host visionary filmmaker and storyteller Danny Lee, whose work has profoundly impacted the arts and travel landscape. Danny's journey began with his passion for hip hop, street art, and sports, which he seamlessly wove into a thriving filmmaking career. He takes us behind the scenes of his latest PBS project, "The Express Way with Dulé Hill," highlighting unsung heroic artists across America and showcasing the transformative power of art in healing communities and catalyzing change.

Danny recounts his experiences, from a life-changing trip to Taiwan to a trip early in his professional career to explore his roots in Korea, the diverse streets of Los Angeles, and how his father's passing pushed him to pursue his dreams. He delves into the importance of mentorship and nurturing emerging talent, reflecting on his journey of self-discovery and authentic storytelling. Join us as Danny Lee shares the moments that shaped his career, emphasizing the importance of cultural bridges and the human connections that define us.

Subscribe and share if you enjoy the episode, and don't forget to check out "The Express Way with Dulé Hill" on PBS. Special thank you to this episodes sponsors:

Smooth Move, the #1 tea for going #2. For more information visit Traditionalmedicinals.com/smoothmove to shop today and use SM20OFF for a 20% discount

World Trips, Atlas Journey travel insurance, visit www.worldtrips.com to explore your coverage options and travel fearlessly with an Atlas Journey plan from WorldTrips.

As always, we appreciate your support, please leave a rating, comment, and share the episodes you love. We look forward to seeing you on the open road!

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Part 3 of our "Celebrating Seattle" series culminated in gathering our community of like-minded travelers, eager to hear the captivating travel tales and deep affection for Seattle from James Beard Award nominee Chef Kristi Brown of Communion Restaurant in Seattle's Central District. Recorded at Kinn Venice amidst a live audience comprising media, influencers, travel advisors, and travel enthusiasts.

Chef Kristi illuminated how her passion for Seattle's rich and diverse cultures ignited her curiosity to delve into the city and fuel her culinary ingenuity. Her favorite dish might catch you off guard, and her quest to savor this meal was a journey filled with meaning and appreciation. Securing two James Beard nominations in four years stands as a remarkable achievement, and Chef Kristi graciously acknowledged the significance of the honor. She attributes it to the supportive community, her dedicated team, and the vibrant city of Seattle, which has provided her the platform to inspire people worldwide.

Before the event, our community mingled over Washington State wines and Pacific Northwest-inspired fare and desserts from Akasha’s, kindling the wanderlust for Seattle. Raffle prizes, including Alaska Airlines tickets and a stay at downtown Seattle's Hotel Andra, along with an array of donated items from Visit Seattle partners and friends such as Atrium Kitchen Pike Place, Bite Society, Eighth Generation, Filson, Monorail Espresso Seattle, Arvin Goods, Seattle Refined, and Refugee Artisan Initiative added to the excitement of the evening.

A heartfelt thank you to Chef Kristi Brown, Jeannette Ceja, Visit Seattle, and the TWM team as well as the incredible assembly of travelers, for making the night truly memorable.

For all your Seattle travel needs and cozy season deals, visit visitseattle.org.

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In part two of our special series “Celebrating Seattle” in collaboration with Visit Seattle TWM podcast host Mike Schibel is joined again by the acclaimed bilingual travel journalist Jeannette Ceja.

For any traveler, the heart of a destination lies within its people and community. We had the privilege of connecting with remarkable small business owners within the Hispanic, Latino, and BIPOC communities. Exploring hidden treasures, perhaps not yet on the visitor map but beloved by locals, was a true delight.

We enjoyed a fantastic cup of coffee on a quintessential cozy Seattle morning at the Station Coffee Shop, where we had the pleasure of conversing with Co-Owner Luis Rodriguez. Luis, who moved to Seattle over thirty years ago from Baja Mexico, shared with us the profound importance of owning a coffee shop—to inspire pride in his children and demonstrate to the youth in the community that they can achieve anything.

In Seattle's White Center neighborhood, we ventured to the Salvadorean Bakery, founded by sisters Ana Castro and Aminta Elgin, originally from El Salvador. This establishment, comprising a restaurant, bakery, and market, stands as a pillar in the community. From authentic pupusas to heavenly baked goods, it's no wonder Seattleites rave about this bakery.

Having a local guide is invaluable, and we were fortunate to have Laura Clise from Intentionalist show us the diverse tapestry of small businesses and the passionate individuals behind them. Understanding how our everyday choices—where we dine, drink, and shop—impact the places we visit is truly enlightening.

Our Seattle journey concluded with a toast alongside Ken Dillon, owner of Footprint Wine Tap, the city's first sustainable keg wine-on-tap bar. The inviting ambiance, stellar wine selection, and warm locals made leaving this spot a challenge.

For all your Seattle travel needs and cozy season deals, visit VisitSeattle.org

Part three of our special series is coming up with a live podcast recording with acclaimed Chef Kristi Brown.

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We’re excited to kick off a special three-part podcast series “Celebrating Seattle” in collaboration with Visit Seattle. Our friend Jeannette Ceja, an award-winning bilingual travel journalist and TV host, joins TWM podcast host Mike Schibel to explore some of Seattle’s iconic attractions and connect with small business owners in the vibrant Hispanic, Latino, and BIPOC communities.

Our adventure in Seattle took place during the cozy season, arguably one of the best times to visit the Pacific Northwest with its mellow vibes, lush scenery, and welcoming locals. Never heard of the cozy season? We suggest giving it a try—we loved it!

In part one of “Celebrating Seattle,” we explore some of Seattle's most iconic and well-known attractions, including Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Space Needle.

For over a hundred years, Pike Place Market has been a staple in Seattle and a top attraction for travelers. During our visit, we explored three Hispanic and Latino-owned restaurants: Maíz, Copacabana, and Los Agaves, serving authentic cuisines from Mexico and Bolivia. Copacabana was the first Bolivian restaurant in the western United States when it opened over sixty years ago.

In the second part of the episode, we talk with Randy Cote from the Space Needle and neighboring Chihuly Garden and Glass. We were mesmerized by the work of the famed glassblower and Tacoma, Washington native Dale Chihuly. You’ve probably seen Chihuly's work around the world, but walking through Chihuly Garden and Glass is an enchanting experience.

Sitting in the famed Chihuly Glasshouse, looking up at the Space Needle, we learned the connection between these two landmarks was enhanced in 2018 when the first-of-its-kind revolving glass floor was installed one floor below the upper observation level of the Space Needle. Visitors now have two incredible views of Seattle and the surrounding areas—from looking out at Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, to looking down them at the different neighborhoods of Seattle. Many travelers also noticed the Chihuly Garden and Glass right next door. It was pretty cool to look up at the bottom of the Space Needle from inside the Glasshouse and then look through the top of the Glasshouse from the top of the Space Needle.

Travel tip: have lunch at The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass, which sources incredible local dishes and cocktails and displays many of Dale Chihuly's unique collections.

A big thank you to all the amazing people we met: Kathy (Maíz), Vivian (Copacabana), Chef Jaime (Los Agaves), and Randy from the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Thank you to our partners on this series, Visit Seattle, for coordinating our adventure, and the wonderful Jeannette Ceja.

For all your Seattle travel details and cozy season packages, visit VisitSeattle.org

Stay tuned for part two of Celebrating Seattle!

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On episode 112 we talk with Mickela Mallozzi the four-time Emmy® Award-winning Host and Executive Producer of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, a travel series highlighting the diversity of dance which airs on PBS stations nationwide and on Amazon Prime globally.

A professional dancer and trained musician, Mickela decided to start a journey around the world, taking her camera with her to follow dance in the lives of everyday people wherever she went. From re-discovering her family’s heritage in Southern Italy to dancing tango on the main stage in Buenos Aires, the series covers Mickela’s adventures as she experiences the world, one dance at a time.

In this episode, Mickela shares her early memories of traveling with her family to Italy. This was not the typical Italian vacation, but the experiences left a lasting impression on her future career in TV. We learn about Mickela’s aha moment that came to her in the middle of the night, and how her passion to make friends by dancing with strangers has led her to a community of friends around the world.

We’ve been lucky on Travel With Meaning to meet incredible travelers, Mickela is a like-minded traveler and a wonderful addition to the TWM community.

To watch episodes of Bare Fee on PBS visit www.travelbarefeet.com

Make sure you give Mickela a follow @travelbarefeet

As always we appreciate if you subscribe and share episodes of the TWM podcast you enjoy!

See you on the open road!

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In episode 111, we sit down with Jeff Jenkins, the host of Never Say Never on Nat Geo and Disney+, a motivational speaker, and the creative mind behind @chubbydiaries, a platform inspiring individuals of all sizes to explore the globe. Jeff's journey began with his first flight to Japan in his early twenties, a pivotal moment that transformed his life forever.

During our conversation, Jeff delves into the stories behind his Never Say Never episodes and recounts his pivotal "AHA moment" when he realized his dream of combining travel with earning a living. Jeff's journey with Chubby Diaries exemplifies his commitment to making this dream a reality.

Jeff's authenticity and inspiring journey make him one of the most captivating guests we've had on the podcast.

Don't forget to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on our latest releases!

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Welcome to the 110th episode of the Travel with Meaning podcast. In this distinctive feature, we delve into the tale of a culinary fascination with a dish we encountered in Austria back in 2022. Our journey led us over 6,000 miles to the world's oldest festival dedicated to this particular delicacy.

Enter Knödel, the Austrian dish that transcends its once-perceived simplicity, especially in the town of St. Johann. Here, at the Knödelfest, these dumplings are anything but basic.

For over four decades, enthusiasts from all walks of life have converged, regardless of the weather, to partake in a day of revelry involving beer and a myriad of Knödel varieties, solidifying St. Johann as the global epicenter of Knödel celebration.

Our very own Mike Schibel nurtured his fascination for Knödel and embarked on a pilgrimage to the Austrian Alps to immerse himself in the firsthand experience of Knödelfest. What unfolded on a rainy day in late September could easily be deemed one of the most remarkable food festivals ever attended.

Tune in to hear Mike's captivating adventure, offering a glimpse into the world of Knödelfest and the unique culinary journey it entails.

All this and more awaits you on this special edition of the Travel with Meaning podcast. Enjoy the journey!

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In the latest edition of the TWM podcast, Episode 109 unfolds a captivating conversation with the intriguing and unconventional Matt Meltzer, a distinguished travel journalist.

Matt delves into his early travel recollections, sharing how one of his adventures as a teenager fueled his decision to enlist in the military. Alongside anecdotes of the unique characters he has encountered on his journeys, Matt's passion for exploring less-traveled destinations makes his genuine travel narratives both enthralling and enlightening for us all.

Renowned for his zeal in discovering off-the-beaten-path locales, Matt's tales, coupled with his authentic connection with people, offer valuable insights and entertainment. Injecting a dose of playfulness into his escapades, Matt is famously known for traveling with a Muppet companion, doubling as his twin, and has even spearheaded a campaign for a tourism board with Matty the Muppet. Give muppet a follow on Instagram @mattymeltzer

The interestingly hilarious story of Matt's love for Buffalo and the Buffalo Bills is worth listening to the episode just for this tale alone.

This episode was recorded in front live audience, as part of the Andeana Hats pop-up event at the Water Gardens in Santa Monica, CA.

As always, we would greatly appreciate your support in liking and sharing this episode on social media, tagging @Travelwithmeaning. Feel free to leave us a positive review on your preferred podcast platform.

See you on the open road!

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Episode 108 of the Travel With Meaning podcast features a conversation with Bruce Wallin, a travel journalist who has experienced his share of meaningful adventures.

As editorial director for Robb Report for 15 years covering luxury travel to co-founding Trip magazine in the nineties, and today as the host of the award-winning #travelthatmatters podcast.

In our conversation, Bruce shares his thoughts on wellness travel, and what sparked his desire to enter travel publishing + journalism and his most meaningful adventure.

Bruce sums up what travel means to him simply as “fun” and we couldn’t agree more.

Enjoy our conversation with Bruce.

#Travelwithmeaning #Travelstories #Travel

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Episode 107 is a special conversation recorded in front of a live audience at the infamous Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, CA.

This podcast features one of our favorite past guests, Ruben Rojas an artist, author, podcast host, a new dad, and Founder of Live Through Love.

It had been five years since we sat down with Ruben in front of a live audience and wow how his life, career, and travels evolved since 2018. Click here to listen to the past episode's conversation.

In this exciting episode, Ruben shares his adventures, projects, and connections he's had over the past few years that shaped a new lens of meaning in his life.

We learn about how Ruben's project with the city he calls home, Santa Monica, and the mural painted in Brighton Beach, England as part of a sister city initiative came to be.

The live recording of this episode with Ruben could not have been possible without the support of the Fairmont Miramar, Santa Monica, and our partners for the evening - Bombay Sapphire, Arvin Goods, and Eagle Creek.

Show highlights:

12:20 Ruben shares about an incredible partnership he's formed with the NFL. As a former football player himself, this partnership is a dream come true to spread LOVE through a CHOOSE LOVE campaign.

21:37 Experience of leaving his hometown of Santa Monica and coming back with a new appreciation.

23:27: Santa Monica and Brighton, England sister city project.

24:40: How has his life changed as a traveler with a two-year-old son.

28:40: How does he live through love when he travels.

29:50: Ruben's most meaningful travel experience.

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Episode 106 of the podcast features a conversation with Co-Founder and CEO of Unbound Merino,Dan Demsky. An intrepid business leader, and serial entrepreneur, Dan started Unbound Merino as a way to offer travelers freedom through simplicity. In just five years, Dan has transformed the company from a small crowdfunding campaign to an international brand worn by travelers, entrepreneurs, and minimalists across the globe. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the startup space, Dan has appeared on BNN Bloomberg and has been featured in publications such as Forbes, The Globe and Mail, VICE, and more. He is also a board member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization Toronto and a regular contributor to Learn with Shopify. When he isn’t traveling, Dan enjoys live music, good food, and spending time with his pug, Walter

Highlights of this episode:

Dan shares his first big trip to Japan which was a gift from his brother and had a drastic effect on him. 3:47-4:21

Dan shares a big tradition he and his best friends share when going to see their favorite band in the world Phish. No matter where they are in the world, when this happens, Dan is present to how good his life is in that moment. 9:37-12:12

Dan also shares travel advice 14:31-15:10

For more information on Dan and Unbound Merino visit ww.unboundmerino.com

This episode was sponsored UnCruise, the leading small-ship adventure company. If you're looking for a memorable and meaningful adventure in pristine nature with unique activties, gourmet meals, and so much more, visitwww.uncruise.com

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Episode 105 is a two-part series with Amy and Nick Thompson, podcasters and creators of What The Pho Travel Podcast (WTP).

Amy is a former BBC Radio producer and current podcast production business founder. Nick Thompson is a podcast producer at Manchester United Football Club Together they are, What The Pho Travel Podcast. They travel around the globe making a travel podcast to entertain, inspire and teach you about the world.

In part two of Episode 105 we learn about Nick and Amy the travelers. Who are they as individual travelers, as a couple, and where did the idea for WTP podcast come from?

We’re big fans of Nick and Amy and hope you will be as well after listening to episode 105. Enjoy!

If you like what you’ve heard, please live a rating, comment, and share with your friends.

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Episode 105 is a two-part series with Amy and Nick Thompson, podcasters and creators of "What The Pho" (WTP) Travel Podcast.

Amy is a former BBC Radio producer and current podcast production business founder. Nick Thompson is a podcast producer at Manchester United Football Club. Together they are, What The Pho Travel Podcast. They travel around the globe making a travel podcast to entertain, inspire and teach you about the world.

In part one of episode 105 we hear about Amy and Nick meeting Mike from WTM on an adventure in Austria as part of the Untold Stories Series with Austria Tourism. This trip was an absolute dream itinerary. Nick, Amy, and Mike retell the stories from their Austrian adventure and why they think Austria is an underrated wellness mecca.

It’s pretty clear in this episode there was an instant appreciation and friendship between Nick, Amy, and Mike, the rest is podcast history and a fun episode to enjoy!

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On this episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, we meet Christine Peterson, a freelance writer based in southeast Wyoming. TWM podcast host Mike Schibel met Christine on a trip to Ganglers Lodge in Northern Manitoba. This conversation shares the unique adventure of Gangelers Lodge and Christine's lens as a journalist covering wildlife, the environment, hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and public lands. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, High Country News, Outside, Outdoor Life, and many other publications. When she's not writing, she's wandering the West with her husband, 6-year-old daughter, and two yellow Labradors (one greying, the other very much a puppy). Give Christine a follow on Instagram @ she.will.roam

As Always we appreciate the support. Please like, and share this episode to help spread meaningful and memorable travel stories.

BIG thank you to our episode sponsor UnCruise, the small boat adventure company (www.uncruise.com)

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In episode 103 of the podcast, we talk with Jen Ruiz, AKA Jen On A Jet Plane. Jen is a truly unique professional who transformed her life and career through incredible travel experiences. Jen is a lawyer turned full-time travel blogger and author. She is a 5-time Amazon bestselling author, 3-time TEDx speaker and multi-award-winning travel journalist. She has been featured by The Washington Post, Forbes, and ABC News and is the solo female traveler behind Jen on a Jet Plane.

In our conversation, Jen shares with us her reasons to leave the law career behind, and what is her inspiration for her travels. For more information on Jen visit www.jenonajetplane.com

Please give Travel With Meaning a follow on social

@TravelWith Meaning

If you liked this episode please leave a comment and share it with your community.

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In the latest episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, host Mike Schibel speaks with Lillian Rafson, the CEO and founder of Pack Up + Go. Originally from Pittsburgh, Lillian shares how her passion for travel after a carefree Summer backpacking around a region she knew nothing about led her to start her own company that plans surprise trips for its customers.

Pack Up + Go, encourages spontaneity, exploration, and adventure among American travelers. She launched the bootstrapped business at 23 years old and has grown it to 25+ team members and $7 million+ in annual revenue. Lillian has been honored as a member of the Pittsburgh 30 Under 30 and 40 Under 40, a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow, a Travel & Leisure A-List Travel Planner, and a Top Woman in Hospitality. Outside of Pack Up + Go, Lillian is a business coach, focusing on helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses!

Show Notes:

15:22 This could be one of the most ambitious ideas for a passionate traveler about starting a new job.

26:24: Where did the idea for surprise travel come from? Where was Lillian and who were where the other travelers that got Lillian thinking about the idea?

30:57: Who was the first guests to try Pack Up + Go and how did the brand go viral?

As always thanks for listening. If you like the episode, please leave a rating and share it with your friends.

For more information on Pack Up+Go www.packupgo.com

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In this episode, we're joined by a woman who's blazing a trail in the travel industry and never intended to start a travel company. As the Colombian-American founder and CEO of El Camino Travel, Katalina Mayorga has been on a mission to change the way women travel, making it more accessible and inclusive. Katalina shares the two meaningful moments while in Guatemala (19:00) that changed the course of her life.

As a veteran of the travel industry, she has led El Camino to become one of the fastest-growing experiential marketplaces and subscription services that empower women to travel boldly and off the beaten path. She’s equally determined to develop the technology that will make a positive impact by supporting the local operators who are critical to the experience but lack the tech stack to grow and scale. Katalina has been featured in the New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, and Washington Post, among several other prominent media outlets, and is often tapped for her expertise in emerging trends within the travel industry.

If you like this episode and conversation, please like and share. We appreciate your support.

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Welcome to episode 100 of the Travel with Meaning podcast! We're excited to celebrate this milestone by sharing a very special episode with our listeners. In this episode, we're joined by my travel inspiration, my mom, Linda Schibel. In this episode, we delve into mom’s earliest travel memories and explore where her wanderlust comes from. We also reminisce about our family trips to our cabin in northern Minnesota and a road trip we took together in Scotland. Additionally, we discuss her impactful adventures in Africa, Paris, and Israel. Join us as we share my mom’s unique perspective on travel and the meaningful experiences it has brought to our lives.

Thanks for tuning in and for all the encouragement and support of Travel With Meaning. I hope to see you on the open road!

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Hello Travelers!

What a year 2022 has been! TWM is beyond grateful for all of you and your support of the podcast and for sharing meaningful travel stories.

This episode is a recap of travels, unique experiences, and inspiring conversations from this past year.

Our most meaningful episode recorded this year was 98A and 98B with Owen Conflenti recorded at the Westin Hilton Head, absolutely one of our favorite podcast conversations ever!

We're very excited to officially announce the launch of the How To Travel With Meaning course. Helping to identify past meaningful moments to offer ways to travel with more meaning in the future. The feedback on the course has been incredible. Click the workshop link on the Travel With Meaning website or click here to check it out. Use the code "Community" for added discount.

A BIG thank you to Your Travel Analyst, Claire Burt for all her passion and support of the HTTWM course.

So excited to continue to share meaningful conversations with extraordinary travelers to help encourage, inspire and support all of your future adventures!

Happy New Year!

See you on the open road!

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Episode 98B - This is part two of the conversation recorded at the Westin Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. If you haven't listened to 98A with Steve French from the Westin make sure you do so.

In this episode, we talk with news anchor Owen Conflenti, who's been getting up at 2:30 am for seventeen years to deliver the morning news in Houston. Owen has amassed a large social media following of over one million followers on Tik Tok offering a fun approach to the sometimes heavy work of delivering the news.

Owen and TWM podcast host Mike Schibel were college broadcasting partners at Emerson College. Winning Associated Press Best College Sports Radio show two years in a row and play-by-play announcers for the Emerson basketball team.

In this episode, Mike and Owen talk about some of their past shared experiences, reminisce on college adventures, and Owen talks about his connection to the Carolinas. Owen also gets very vulnerable about his feelings about travel, how this trip was an important step to regain his desire for future adventures.

This episode also includes a conversation about the shared experience Mike and Owen had while in Hilton Head and the unique experiences they had exploring the island.

As friends for over twenty-five years, this episode was meaningful and a long time coming. A BIG thank you to Steve French and the team at the Westin Hilton Head for the warm hospitality. We loved our time in the Low Country and look forward to returning!

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Episode 98 of the podcast is a special two-part conversation 98A and 98B recorded at the Westin Hilton Head Island in South Carolina.

Our guest for episode 98 is Houston news anchor/content creator Owen Conflenti. Owen also happens to be the college broadcasting partner of TWM podcast host Mike Schibel We learn more about Owen and his meaningful travels in episode 98B.

In episode 98A Mike and Owen talk with Steve French, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Westin Hilton Head. Steve shares his insights on what makes Hilton Head so unique, why he's come back to live on the island three times, and his most meaningful/memorable trip.

A big thank you to Steve and the team at the Westin Hilton Head for the warm hospitality and for introducing TWM to the magic of the Low Country.

Enjoy this episode and make sure to listen to the second part of episode 98 with Owen Conflenti.

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Episode 97 features a conversation with TV host Jason Zone Fisher. A passionate traveler who turned his love for sports, curiosity for adventure, and why not mentally into a thriving on-camera career.

After winning a dream opportunity with Gillette traveling to major sporting events and experiences with his best friend, Jason knew anything was possible. Jason shared one of his most meaningful travel moments happened while on the road, with another major brand, Butterfinger . He had two days off in Kansas City. After sampling dozens of BBQ restaurants on day one Jason decided to drive 7 hrs to the NBA Finals in Oklahoma City on day 2. What happened next is a travel story that drastically changed the course of Jason's life and career. Listen to the full podcast to hear the story or click here to watch the Youtube video.

About Jason Zone Fisher: a versatile host and producer, with unique expertise in sports, travel, food, game shows, and branded entertainment. He has hosted and produced shows for Travel Channel, Big Ten Network, CNBC, Nickelodeon, Bravo, USA Network, Food Network and has become one of the go-to hosts for the NBA. Jason currently hosts a popular podcast with former NBA All-Star Baron Davis, and is a regular on the NBA's App, Twitch channel and social accounts - reporting from all major events - from Draft to Summer League, All-Star Weekend through the Finals and more. He is touring the nation as an emcee for ProCamps with various major college basketball programs and NBA athletes. He's served as a sideline reporter for the World Armwrestling League (yes, that's a thing!) on B/R Live and the Alliance of American Football on NFL Network. He has served as host and spokesman for numerous brands including Express, Gillette, Butterfinger, Skype, Esurance, Nerf, Evian, Mastercard, Kingsford, Jack Links, MaximBet, Homage and Pizza Hut - where represented the brand as the "Pizza Hut All-American" at every NCAA Championship in every sport. Jason is a proud graduate of the Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University, and a lifelong Cleveland sports fan. Known for his high-energy, Jason tried sleeping once, but decided that wasn't for him!

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Episode 96 features a conversation with Lauren Gay AKA Outdoorsy Diva, an extraordinary traveler who carved out her own path and inspired countless people along the way.

Lauren is the creator of Misadventures of an Outdoorsy Diva Blog, host/producer of the award-winning Adventure Is A Lifestyle Podcast, published photographer, speaker, consultant, on-air TV travel expert, and adventure coach. She is a monthly travel expert on CBS Great Day Live Tampa Bay. She is also a travel writer and social media influencer who is passionate about inspiring and empowering black women to step out of their comfort zones for new experiences in travel and adventure and embracing nature as therapy. Lauren is also an empty nest mom and a dedicated long-time advocate for racial diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation and adventure travel and a founding member of the Black Travel Alliance.

We loved our conversation with Lauren and think you'll be inspired by her stories.

In this episode, Lauren share's the most meaningful adventure she has ever had was with her son in the Spring of 2022 abroad on an Uncruise Adventure Ship in Mexico.

Lauren had no idea that this episode was sponsored by Uncruise and we loved how organically and authentically she shared how much she loved her time cruising with Uncruise.

Big thank you to our friends at Uncruise for sponsoring this episode and for more information about Uncruise click here - make sure you use the code TWM500 to save $500 on an Uncruise adventure!

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Hello travelers, in episode 95 we talk with Stephanie Daniel, the CEO, and Co-Founder of a unique new travel app, Legend. Stephanie does not come from a traditional travel industry background, but as we've found from talking with countless guests travel has impacted all of our lives and careers. Stephanie is no different as travel shaped who she is and lead her to launch this innovative concept.

As Stephanie shared with us, she believes that travel and exploration lead to authentic connection and growth for us as individuals and as a collective. When combined with the community it powers mutual evolution. Her mission is to build a platform that empowers us all to explore more and authentically connect with ourselves, each other, and the world.

Stephanie grew up in a tiny village in England, where her horizons grew through travel, and her love for exploring was born. She studied Economics at Cambridge and spent more than fourteen years in investment banking with Deutsche Bank in London and New York, working with amazing global teams and gaining the strongest foundation in markets, finance, and management. Travel continued to be a passion in the deepest part of her soul, and through her experiences and connections, she developed a strong belief that tech and community had the potential to make it better. Stephanie is beyond excited to now be harnessing her entrepreneurial spirit to bring Legends to life!

About Legends:

Legends are a community app for explorers, travelers, new nomads, and freedom seekers. We unlock your lifelong journey by creating your unique Travel DNA made up of your own experience of the world. Our proprietary tech and community-powered approach help you share trusted recommendations, discover amazing places and connect with your people.

Enjoy our conversation with Stephanie, check out Legends and shoot us a note to let us know what you think!

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About Legends:

Enjoy our conversation with Stephanie, check out Legends and shoot us a note to let us know what you think!

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In this episode, we talk with, Cara Federici, the Founder, and CEO of the Madison Melle Agency. Cara has a long career in hospitality working with prestigious global brands. It's her savvy eye for design, forward-thinking innovation, and detail that has her agency positioned as a positive force in the new dawn of hospitality.

A self-described city slicker, Cara shares with us where her love for hospitality, design, and travel comes from and the meaningful moments that have shaped her life and career.

The Madison Melle Agency is a multi-faceted creative studio & lifestyle consultancy, ideating and operating one-of-a-kind media, technology, hospitality, food & beverage, retail, and real estate brands. Federici’s proven track record
of success is derived from collaborating with a multitude of the world’s most notable names in their respective industries, including Fast Company, Standard Hotels, Palisociety, InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and Proper Hospitality.

Federici’s current and past portfolio comprises an array of highly sought-after, luxury lifestyle
companies and market leaders, such as Brookfield Properties, Relais & Châteaux’s Calabash Grenada, Casetta Group, Bridgeton Hospitality, Two Bunch Palms, Marram Montauk, Walker Hotels, Petit Ermitage, Saira Hospitality, Wylder Hotels, Cachet Hotels, Solay App, and Skypod, as well as a variety of highly acclaimed media, retail, communications, and hospitality ventures.

Federici launched Tech Theory Group in 2020, a high-performance technology advisory firm, designing and delivering best-in-class managed information technology solutions and infrastructure services. Tech Theory Group realized a compelling need in the
marketplace existed for simple, transparent, cost-effective hospitality technology services. Tech
Theory Group delivers these core competencies to clientele through a collective partnership of
experienced IT architects, engineers, designers, consultants, and business executives across the globe.

Federici attended Parsons School of Design in New York City and graduated Cum Laude from Tulane University, with a Bachelor of the Arts in Communications and a double minor in Business and Art Studio. Federici holds a completed Certificate of Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management from Cornell University.
Federici is currently based in Southern California with offices for The Madison Melle
Agency and Tech Theory Group in Los Angeles.

Enjoy our conversation with Cara Federici.

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A self-described city slicker, Cara shares with us where her love for hospitality, design, and travel comes from and the meaningful moments that have shaped her life and career.

Enjoy our conversation with Cara Federici.

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Gathering the Travel With Meaning community of like-minded travelers together to hear meaningful stories from our special guests is what we missed most during the pandemic. Episode 93 features not one but two incredible guests for the podcast recorded in front of an intimate audience at the Shay Hotel in Culver City, CA. This event was a collaboration with Wanderful and their LA Chapter. Our extraordinary guests Nailah Hayward and Rachel Firchau are two meaningful content creators and have both been active within the Wanderful community and with Travel With Meaning.

Big thank you to our partners to help make this event a success Travelers Autobarn, State Bags and Book Outdoors are supporters of sharing authentic meaningful stories and providing raffle prizes for the audience attending. Thank you also to all the people who watched the conversation live through zoom and thank you again to the Shay for hosting us and providing a raffle prize of a Shaycation.

About our two guests:
Nailah Hayward
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA Nailah is a passionate traveler and advocate for others' travel adventures. Starting her popular travel blog “There’s So Much To See” in 2009. As the LA Chapter Director for Wanderful Nailah helps organize community events and inspire her fellow travel community.

Rachel Firachu - AKA Rachel Off Duty
Balancing her passion for travel and her corporate job has given Rachel a new spin on her popular travel blog “Rachel Off Duty” instead of quitting her job to travel she’s utilized her professional stability to thrive in workcation opportunities all over the world. Born and raised in Hawaii her wanderlust interest came at an early age and her desire to inspire other women to see the world has been the basis for Rachel Off Duty. One of her recent adventures to Lebanon has sparked her interest to lead trips to places that moved her. To find out more about Rachel’s small group trip to Lebanon click here.

Enjoy our conversation with Naialah and Rachel.

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In this episode, we talk about Scot's passion for travel and how it lead to launching the Travel Academy. An initiative with State Bags and Puzzle International to provide the opportunity of travel for young adults from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Travel With Meaning podcast host, Mike Schibel was lucky enough to be a last-minute addition to the inaugural Travel Academy trip in California and even earned a special nickname. The Travel Academy California adventure was turned into a short film premiering on October 2, 2022, online. Click here to see the inspiring trailer of the film.

More about Scot Tatelman:

Scot defines the term ‘social entrepreneur’ and has made it his life’s work to balance profitable business ventures with making the world a better place. In 2005, he collaborated with The Mark Wahlberg Foundation and The Boys and Girls Club to create Camp Northbound - a residential camp for kids growing up in the inner cities of Boston. Following its success, Scot set out to build a similar program for kids in New York City’s most underfunded communities, creating Camp Power. In fourteen years, the volunteer-based nonprofit organization provided life-changing experiences, positive role models and college scholarships to thousands of kids. After seeing many Camp Power kids carrying their belongings in ripped trash bags, he and his wife founded STATE Bags - a Brooklyn-born bag brand that uses the power of business to give back and support American children and families in need, in the ways they need it most. He has worked to evolve their charitable model through STATE's innovative giving initiatives and #WhatDoWeTellTheKids platform and recently launched a consulting company to help build out the company's charitable and giving efforts. Scot is a graduate of UVM and a Boston native, he currently resides in Northern California with his wife, two kids, and dog, Bird.

This could be one of our favorite and most inspiring episodes ever!

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Episode 91 was recorded in front of a live audience at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills and is brought to you by our partner, Los Cabos Tourism.

Our special guest, Danni Washington, is a Science Communicator, Author, and TV Host. Making her return to the TWM podcast, she shares her love for the Pacific Ocean + Los Cabos and even drops hints about the top secret NatGeo show she's hosting.

Danni, a Miami native of Jamaican descent, graduated from The University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric with a Marine Science and Biology degree. At age 21, Danni and her mom launched the non-profit Big Blue & You, dedicated to inspiring and educating youth about marine Science through the arts and media.

Danni is a full-time dedicated marine science communicator, a part-time educational "mermaid," and an unstoppable rising media star brilliantly educating and entertaining. Standing at the intersection of Science and the public at large, Danni is the first African American woman of color to host an American Science TV show. Her new book geared towards youth, Bold Women In Science, tells the inspiring stories of fifteen women who changed the course of Science.

Danni is currently in production as the sole host of a "top secret" National Geographic Disney + mega-budgeted premium limited documentary series. She is the host of Season 1 of The Genius Generation; a new podcast focused on young people behind an incredible invention, entrepreneurial pursuit, or discovery using Science. Previously, Danni was a featured correspondent for the weekly nationally syndicated CBS series Mission Unstoppable, hosted and executive produced by Miranda Cosgrove and Geena Davis. Danni has also hosted Xploration Nature Knows Best on Fox and Amazon Prime, a STEM educational TV series featuring the latest bio-inspired technology and design advancements. Danni has also worked with other significant STEM shows, including Facebook Watch and Science the $#!* Out Of It to Science Channel's Strange Evidence.

Her new book, geared towards youth Bold Women In Science, tells the inspiring stories of fifteen women who changed the course of Science. Now Danni supports changing the system by serving as a judge for the Tom Ford Plastic Innovation Prize 2021. Danni is also a proud Board Member of the North American Association of Environmental Education.

Thanks to Danni for sharing her inspiring stories and LOVE for Los Cabos. We look forward to having you back on the podcast to tell us all about your NatGeo show coming out in Spring 2023! A big thank you to all our partners, Los Cabos Tourism, the Waldorf Astoria, State Bags, and all who attended this special live podcast evening!

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Episode 90 features a conversation with a digital trailblazer who found healing and transformation in nature.

Shira Lazar is the founder and CEO of the Emmy Nominated digital media brand What's Trending. She is the host of the afternoon drive show Let’s Go There weekdays on CHANNEL Q, an Audacy Original Station, and the award-winning LGBTQ+ Talk Radio Network.

She has also been named one of Fast Company’s Most Influential Women in Technology, Huffington Post’s “Women in Tech to follow on Twitter”, honored on the Variety Women of Impact list, and Cynopsis Top Women In Digital.

A BIG Web3 advocate, collector, and advises as well as consults with companies in the space relating to cryptocurrency, NFTs and the metaverse.

As a broadcaster, Shira uses her platforms to create content and education around Web3, bridging the gap between the industry, creators, and consumers. She hosts weekly Twitter Spaces shows, #AlphaMondays and Women in Web3 Weekly, brings viewers the top five NFT stories of the week on Instagram, and just launched Inside Web3 airing weekly as a podcast and on KNX News 91.FM in Los Angeles.

While in quarantine in April 2020, Shira co-founded PeaceInside.Live, a wellness community and platform offering virtual classes, workshops, and retreats. PIL is constantly working to break down the barriers of entry to make tools for well-being accessible for all via our community experiences and our workplace programs.

Previously, Shira hosted the weekly pop culture Facebook live show, Circa Pop Live! for Circa.com and was a West Coast contributor for HLN's "The Daily Share", where she covered all things social media and digital trends for the network. As the leading broadcaster and interviewer in the digital space, Shira has been the face of the biggest live streams on the web from awards shows to red carpet premieres including, The Oscars, The Grammys, and Tony Awards among many others. Lazar is a Webby Awards Honoree, Streamy Awards, and IAWTV Winner For Best Web Series Live Host.

Enjoy our conversation with the wonderful Shira Lazar.

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   In episode 89 we catch up with Lindsay Myers at the newly remodeled Viceroy Santa Monica. Lindsay tells us about some of the exciting projects and travels she's working on. We also hear about the fun shared experience that podcast host Mike Schibel, and Lindsay had together in Los Cabos.

Lindsay is a weekly contributor on NBC Access Hollywood, where her segments include visiting unique places around the world. She is a respected voice in the travel and lifestyle industry. With her expertise from TV exposure, and highlighting brands and venues from all over the world, she uses her experience to reach all levels of media.

Originally from Hilton Head, S.C Lindsay got her start in the TV industry as a Production Assistant on the Maurey Povich show and was later a regular on the TV reality series It's a Brad, Brad World with Brad Goreski.

When she's not traveling the world for Access Hollywood Lindsay is creating stories for her popular blog, Get Lost With Lindsay.

Enjoy this episode and fun conversation with Lindsay Myers

This episode was sponsored by Los Cabos Tourism. One of the world's premiere travel destinations with a variety of luxury and family-friendly resorts. Los Cabos has everything you need and so much more. For more information go to visitloscabos.travel

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Episode 88 of the podcast was record at Bluestone Lane on Rose Ave in Venice Beach with the CEO and Founder of Blunestone Lane Nicholas Stone.

A former professional AFL Football Player (6 years), Corporate Finance banker (11 years Australia, USA, UK) and currently Founder & CEO of Bluestone Lane.

Bluestone Lane is the fastest growing premium cafe brand in the United States, with +65 locations across 9 markets (NY, LA, SF, DC, NJ, PA, MA & Toronto CDN). Headquartered in New York City, Bluestone Lane is influenced by Australian independent coffee-culture, and is committed to providing elevated cafe experiences focused on human connection.

Nick was a 2019 Finalist in EY's New York Entrepreneur of the Year.

Nick has been recognized as one of World’s Young Leaders of the Future and has been featured in the New York Times, CNBC, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, Australian Financial Review, The Age, Forbes, GQ and Vogue USA. Nick has been a featured guest on +15 podcasts since 2019, available on Spotify and iTunes stores.

Prior to founding Bluestone Lane a complete hospitality "outsider", Nick spent 11 years in corporate finance and advisory in Australia, New York and London, after beginning his career as a professional AFL footballer for 6 seasons following selection in the 1999 AFL National Draft.

Enjoy our conversation!

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Episode 88 of the podcast was record at Bluestone Lane on Rose Ave in Venice Beach with the CEO and Founder of Blunestone Lane Nicholas Stone.

A former professional AFL Football Player (6 years), Corporate Finance banker (11 years Australia, USA, UK) and currently Founder & CEO of Bluestone Lane.

Nick was a 2019 Finalist in EY's New York Entrepreneur of the Year.

Enjoy our conversation!

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In Episode 87 we speak with Danny Guerrero, Founder, The Culturist Group (TCG). His accomplishments are astounding and driving change.

In this episode we hear Danny's meaningful travel stories from his first international trip to Korea, his experience interning for San Diego Tourism Board and the special trip to Paris with his mom. Also sharing about the work his doing now and how it all began.

It was Danny's connection and commitment to local communities throughout his twenty plus years in travel marketing that inspired him to launch his own company, The Culturist Group (TCG).

TCG is a 100% minority-owned travel marketing company. As a thought leader for multicultural and diversity in travel Danny has been an active proponent of culture-forward thinking for travel brands and destinations as a means to help increase equity and inclusion in the travel industry.

TCG was established at a time when shifting cultural identities and the need for more diversity, equity and inclusion in the travel industry finally became a priority. TCG believes that the travel industry and the brands, and destinations that participate in it can be a force for good.

CULTURIST as a concept and consultancy practice, bridges cultural values with multicultural travel strategies to support clients to sustain better connections who consider where and with whom they travel as an extension of who they are.

As social justice and diversity in travel became transparent during the uprising of Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, many travel brands struggled to find ways to bridge and connect with multicultural and underrepresented markets. Beginning in 2018 Danny forward thinking advocated for and led the delivery of key programs for destinations and far-reaching industry research on emerging and underrepresented travelers.

Danny championed industry-wide groundbreaking research supporting prolific travel brands such as Hilton, Choice Hotels International, Tripadvisor, NYC & Company, Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board on Black and Hispanic travelers, revealing these two segments alone representing nearly 30% of all U.S. travel spend, reaching in excess of $280M annually. His work has led to the bestowing of grants and funds to Black and diversity in travel organizations in excess of $100,000 to empower underrepresented voices in the travel marketing.

He has been at the helm of multiple award-winning brand marketing and communications programs for destinations, hospitality and travel brands on nearly every continent. Prior to founding The Culturist Group, he spent a decade of his career building and leading agency teams at two well-respected firms, MMGY Global and DCI. Prior to spent a decade in destination marketing with in house roles for hotel management and tour operators. His career portfolio includes research and public relations leadership for Visit California, Viceroy Hotel Group, Hilton, Sensei Retreats, Fiji Airways, Tourism Chile, The Travel Corporation, Visit West Hollywood, Los Cabos Tourism, Sonoma County Tourism, Destination Cleveland to name a few.

Danny is a frequent guest speaker at travel and tourism conferences advocating for underrepresented travelers and illuminating how shifting demographics, travel sentiment and culture represent opportunities for the travel industry. Dedicated to advocating underrepresented travelers and promoting travel for diverse youth and volunteers with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, INROADS (and Mrs. Obando's 8th grade class).

Danny graduated with a B.A. in Political Science and Marketing from the University of California, Riverside with Chancellor's Honors. He is an Executive MBA Candidate at the UCLA Anderson School of Management (Class of 2024), where he was awarded a Dean's Fellowship. Early in his career Danny served as an intern for President Bill Clinton serving in the White House Visitors Office and was a career intern at the San Diego Tourism Authority.

He is a recipient of the ‘Outstanding Contribution Award’ granted by the World Travel and Tourism Council for his work advancing diversity and equity in the industry in 2021, and the Chairman’s Award granted by the National Association of Black Meeting Professionals.

Danny and his husband Jaime reside in Los Angeles, California.

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Hello Travelers, This episode was recorded on location in Montana as part of a mindful adventure travel experience with Recal Travel. This was a unique experience as part of Recal's quiet park series in Glacier National Park. The adventure included breath work, yoga, meditation, walks in nature, camping, cold dips, s'more making and connecting with other like-minded travelers. In this episode we'll meet the Founder of Recal Travel Anthony Lorubbio to learn where the idea came from to launch mindful adventure travel experiences. We'll hear some of the sounds of nature, the quietness of Kintla Lake, deemed one of the quietest places on earth by Quiet Parks International and hear from the trip coach, Scott Stone as well other participants on the adventure. Travel With Meaning is a huge advocate for shared experiences in nature as a way to connect with ourselves, others and nature. The recalibration that comes from taking time to pause is a gift we could all benefit from. If you're interested in any future trips with Recal Travel use the code TWM and if you find other shared experiences in nature that fill you up please share them with us and use the #Travelwithmeaning when something moves, touches, and inspires you.

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Kaila Yu is a Taiwanese American singer, songwriter, former model, and freelance journalist. She was formerly the lead singer and vocalist for the all-Asian-American, female rock band Nylon Pink. As a journalist and on-camera correspondent based in Los Angeles for KEYT which broadcasts on CBS/NBC/FOX. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, CNN, VICE, Business Insider, Travel and Leisure, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, Thrillist, and more. Give her a follow at @kailaYu

Episode 85 is sponsored by Uncruise the small boat adventure company. Use the code TWM500 to get $500 off per person when you sign up for an Uncruise adventure.

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* Read below for a special travel deal associated with this episodes *

On episode 84 of the podcast we meet a man who’s blazed a trail in the travel digital space, but things didn’t always go as planned for Scott Eddy.

Life changed for Scott after losing his father 3 weeks before graduating high school. After months of feeling lost, unmotivated, and directionless, Scott joined an investment training program and excelled as a stockbroker over the next decade. After 10 years traveling between Florida and New York as a stockbroker, Scott said goodbye to the corporate world and embarked on his first life changing trip. Scott’s lifestyle gradually transformed into something he couldn’t plan or predict, starting with his moving permanently to Asia to explore life beyond living in the United States.

After living in Europe and Asia for 17 years, Scott fell in love with several different cultures and recognized the value of creating lasting relationships. Scott embraced his sales and business savvy once again by starting one of the first digital agencies in Southeast Asia. Owning and selling this agency gave him a deep understanding of the digital transformation several industries would encounter.

Scott is a true people person and believes human connection is the only key to success and happiness. Although based in South Florida, there is no one place he currently calls home and is a genuine citizen of the world, traveling full-time, living out of a few suitcases through countless destinations.

2020 changed the world of travel in ways no one could ever predict, and for better or worse, Scott Eddy has become the ‘go-to’ digital guy for the travel industry, understanding it far more than many others as he chooses to completely immerse himself in its development and growth.

Episode 84 is sponsored by the small ship adventure company Uncruise

Use TWM500 for $500 per person on an UnCruise adventure - click here for all the incredible trip UnCruise offers.

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TWM podcast host Mike Schibel was honored to attend the first in person Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Summit since the COVID pandemic. Bringing together Like-minded travelers from all sectors of the travel industry in North Lake Tahoe at the beautiful Palisades Tahoe. Discussing important issues on Climate Change, Sustainability and DEI in the industry with a focus on the local region of Lake Tahoe.

Tourism Cares is an almost twenty plus year non profit dedicated to the long-term survival of the travel + tourism industry. Inspiring each other to make travel a force for good to ensure the future prosperity of the people and places who rely on it.

The Meaningful Travel Summits, or “Tourism Cares for America” as it was once called, began after a call for all Americans to volunteer service to their country as a direct result of September 11, 2001.

Tourism Cares founder and then Executive Director, Bruce Beckham, saw an opportunity for the industry to come together - regardless of industry sector, competitor, or colleague.

The Meaningful Travel Summit has grown from a volunteer program to a multi-day global event that pairs education, service, social enterprise development, and industry networking.

This episode features conversation about what is Toursim Cares and how the organization is making an impact in the travel industry. We also learn what travel means to our fellow Meaningful Travel Summit attendees. Enjoy this meaningful episode.

If you have interest to learn more about Tourism Cares and future Meaningful Travel Summits visit www.tourismcares.org

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Renowned adventure photographer Laura Grier has a knack for manifesting extraordinary opportunities. When she was presented with leading an all women's climb to the top of the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, she knew this would be one of her greatest physical and mental challenges of her life. If the eight days and fifty one hours of climbing through blizzards and down pours was not difficult enough, Laura and her fearless crew of ladies became a fashion pit crew stopping each day for a photo shoot. Each lady on the climb had a chance express themselves and mark this monumental adventure with a goddess portrait in something that looked right out of fashion magazine. When you see the stunning images Laura captured (check the Travel With Meaning Instagram) of her goddess crew in the different landscapes that make up the climb wearing traditional African fabric purchased at a local market and in jewelry from the Maasai tribe it's hard to remember these women have been climbing for days with no showers. As a passionate advocate of local artisan, Laura is also co-founder of Andeana Hats made in Peru and Guatemala, she wanted these photo shoot images to also pay homage to local African artisans.

Small spoiler alert, all the women did summit and had an incredible adventure. When we asked Laura what her biggest takeaway was from the trip she said this adventure really pushed her to practice being present and be in the moment. As Laura said she realized many of her travels have involved her own search for being in the moment, staying present and this is a practice she has brought home with her.

To learn more about Laura and her incredible travel stories and background listen to episode seven of the TWM podcast

click here.

Enjoy this episode and make sure to check out the Travel With Meaning Instagram for the amazing goddess photo shoot images from the Kilimanjaro climb!

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Every once in awhile we share stories of sheer determination, resilience and grit that it’s hard not to find inspiration in the journey. Episode 81 of the TWM Podcast features a conversation with a truly remarkable man, Shaahin Cheyene.

He's the founder of the brain nutrition startup Accelerated Intelligence (AI), an award-winning business mogul, author, filmmaker, and inventor of Herbal Ecstacy, the nootropic that sparked the (100% legal) Smart Drug Movement.

Shaahin is the author of ("Billon, How I Became the King of the Thrill Pill"). His story of leaving home at fifteen, sleeping in his car and a few years later running a company making hundreds of millions of dollars to now where he is today- is remarkable. Along the way the people he met and experiences Shaahin had are unbelievable.

As a serial entrepreneurial his career has spanned more than 30 years, earning over $350 Million. As a leading Amazon expert his products have outpaced Fortune 500 companies’ sales on the platform, selling millions of units worldwide.

This is an episode not to be missed and we highly recommend his book!

Listen to the full episode for a very special offer Shaahin presents to the TWM community. If you'e always wanted to learn how to sell on Amazon now is your time to learn.

Billion: How I Became King Of The Thrill Pill Cult

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Welcome to Episode 80 of the podcast! This is a special solo cast episode where our host Mike Schibel shares stories from a recent adventure in Mexico. Spending time in Los Cabos and cruising for a week on the Sea of Cortés with Uncruise the small ship adventure company. This episode is broken up into three parts: 1) The bucket list experience 2) shared experiences 3)expectations. All three of these elements come together for an epic adventure ! As a bonus to our community if you use the code TWM500 you can get $500 per person off an UnCruise adventure. Enjoy the episode!

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Episode 79 features a conversation with an exceptional travel entrepreneur Kylie Chenn, Founder of Acanela Expeditions, The Wander Camp and The Adventure Dress. Growing in a small town in Northern Idaho, it was a semester studying abroad that opened her mind and heart. Kylie had the travel bug from the first trip abroad and didn’t look back. Over 121 countries later spending time living in Europe, South Africa, Asia and Africa expanding her knowledge and curiosity. Her passion for travel and desire to support others to have impactful adventures lead her to launch Acanela Expeditions, a boutique travel organization that curates hands-on tour experiences around the world. When travel came to a standstill during the pandemic, Kylie did some wandering and camping near National Parks in the Southwest US, sparking the idea for The Wander Camp (a “wandering” hotel of glamping tents). The Wander Camp operates locations outside of six National Parks: Grand Canyon, Glacier, Bryce, Zion, Yellowstone, and Moab. To learn more about The Wander Camp and their billion star ratings click here.

Kylie was recognized as a Utah Business 40 under 40 and Sego World's Fastest Growing Company in Under 5 years.

For more information on Kylie and her endeavors follow her on Instagram @kytrisha

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This episode features a conversation with a visionary hotelier who's passionate about providing a full service hospitality experience. Investing in historic properties in unique markets to invite travelers to embrace slow travel, have less and experience more with meaning.

Excited for you to hear our conversation and make sure you check out and stay at some of Jayson's extraordinary properties: The Columns Hotel Saint Vincent The Drifter ThunderBird Marfa East Austin Hotel Hotel Ranch Motel Boro Hotel Kokoro Springs

Highlights from the episode:

14:44 First big travel moment

20:09 Best trip in college with lessons and adventures to last a lifetime

33:01 All about creating the vibe

35:25 Why he chose New Orleans to start operating hotels

1:01:22 His vision for the future of hospitality

1:09:50 Speed Round

This episode is brought to you by TopTipper the cashless tipping app supporting hospitality employees who make our stays nice. It's Nice to be Nice.

Enjoy the episode!

Jayson's full bio

Jayson Seidman is the Founder and Principal Managing Partner of Sandstone and its various subsidiary companies. Through his years of experience working with Goldman Sachs, Credit Suisse, and most recently as the Head of Development for SHVO in New York, he has gained key knowledge concerning the financial implications and methods for repositioning a property through pragmatic creative approaches, smart sustainable design, and problem mitigation. Seidman possesses wide-ranging real estate knowledge, including a strong background in hotel finance, operations, design development, asset and portfolio management, and acquisitions, as well as the structuring of capital for complex real estate transactions. Over the past 15 years, Jayson has amassed a collection of hotel properties around the country that are full of soul, love, and memorable guest experience. Most recently Jayson’s keen eye for acquiring unique properties in special locations landed him three hotels in New Orleans: The Drifter Hotel, Hotel Saint Vincent, and the most iconic Columns Hotel. Beyond New Orleans, Jayson is back to his Texas roots where he is currently focused on resurrecting the historic Ranch Motel in San Antonio, TX.

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

On this episode our host Mike Schibel shares his experience traveling to New York for a travel industry event. Mike meets different people from tourism boards and hotel groups to share about Travel With Meaning and learn what travel means to them. This was no ordinary trip as Mike shared the experiences gave him "All The Feels" a popular social media term that we've never used on this podcast, but if there was ever an episode to us it this is it. Enjoy!

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EP. 76 is all about following your dreams and blazing a trail as we learn about the journey of India born, California raised songstress, Zoya Mohan. She's been praised by Rolling Stone, ELLE, GQ, MTV, Vh1, Harpers Bazaar, and more for her recollective songwriting and collection of catchy pop gems. She's gained recognition from heavyweights AR Rahman and The Chainsmokers while touring on festival bills and as a support act for the likes of Kawehi, Natty, Lucy Rose, Madame Gandhi, Youngr, Submotion Orchestra, Bloc Party, Clean Bandit, and Martin Garrix.

Returning to Los Angeles after a four year stint touring India, Zoya kicked off her debut US album, Bad Girls Dream, with a radio-friendly pop anthem featuring Grammy-nominated and Billboard Hot 100 charting rapper, Jack Harlow.

Music has been her blood from an early age, but it was traveling with her father in her teen years that created the foundation to allow Zoya to dream big. She shares a poignant moment from an experience her dad sent her on in Peru at 27:40, with a wow, deep moment at 28:18.

We're excited to introduce you to Zoya as she embarks on the next part of her journey.

Give her a follow on Instagram @iamzoya

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Prepare for a conversation with a truly extraordinary guest.

Dubbed “the Business Mystic,” transformational Intentionality coach and speaker Finnian Kelly

is known for his unique ability to awaken consciousness in business leaders, and inspire entrepreneurs to find deeper levels of meaning and purpose in their endeavors.

As the founder of Intentionality, Inc., a comprehensive philosophy and program designed to help everyday people create extraordinary futures, Finnian leads world class events and retreats inspiring attendees to connect deeply with their businesses and themselves.

Known for his 1:1 Intentionality coaching and his immersive group experiences empowering leaders to shift their mindset and acquire tools that will enhance all areas of their lives, Finnian offers unmatched resources and guidance for professionals of all ages and backgrounds to live in alignment and discover their true nature.

Finnian travels the globe as an ambassador for living with Intentionality. His work with individuals, teams, organizations, and underprivileged communities has been featured on National Geographic’s Undercover Angel, Business Insider, Forbes, Sky Business, ABC, Smart Company, and more.

You can learn more about Finnian on finniankelly.com.

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Hello Community! This episode is kicking off season 5 of the podcast. Season 5, wow! It’s not a full-length episode hence the 74.5, rather this episode is a reflection on how and WHY Travel With Meaning started.

From hosting Travel Talk Live events in Los Angeles starting in 2017 to launching a podcast in 2019. Our passion and excitement to share authentic, inspiring, and meaningful travel stories from extraordinary guests to connect with our community is more important than ever. Big thank you to all the brands who believed in Travel With Meaning from day one and supported our community at the Travel Talk Live events. Shout out to: Prana, Cava, Fjallraven, Roark, Travellers autobarn, Feel Good Salsa, Goodr, One Coconut, Surf Air, Kite Hill, Design Hotels and Kind Traveler.

Travel With Meaning wouldn’t be anything without our community of amazing travelers sharing their stories. We do miss the In Real Life (IRL) connection ourcommunity gained from Travel Talk Live events and hope to be able host intimate live events soon.

This episode will also give you the lineup of incredible guests for season five…I mean season five, how cool is that!

You don’t want to miss the conversations of this season with: The man who’s been called “The Business Mystic” Finnian Kelly, what was the trip he took when needing to reset in his life? We hear from India born and California raised Zoya Mohan on her adventures touring India in her twenties as a pop star. Then joining us is hospitality innovator and Managing Partner of Sandstone Developments Jayson Seidman sharing some of his cool new projects, vision for the future, and his first big meaningful trip. Acclaimed entrepreneur and author Shaahin Cheyene will share epic adventure stories from his rise as the King of the thrill pill cult. His recently launched book Billion is unreal and highly recommended. We’ll also talk with Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, the Founders of The Kinsey Collection, the largest privately held collection of African American Art & History celebrating African American achievements and contributions from 1595 to present day. I’ve had the privilege of knowing the Kinsey’s for over thirty years as I grew up with their son and past podcast guest, Khalil Kinsey. I'll also speak with TV personality and Radio host Shira Lazar Co-Founder of What's Trending. Then up is outdoor experiential entrepreneur and Utah's 30 under 30 recipient Kyle Chenn.

Season 5 is brought to you by our friends at UnCruise the small ship adventure company and TopTipper a forward thinking and simple cashless tipping App. It’s going to be a memorable and meaningful season…so make sure you subscribe and please share with your friends the stories that move, touch and inspire you!

Ok…enjoy 74.5 and I’ll see you on the open road!

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

This is the last episode of season 4 and of 2021. We finished the year with an in person conversation with our Fall intern team. On this episode we hear from each of the interns about the podcast episodes they produced, what principles of How To Travel With Meaning they connected with, stories they created and what were their big takeaways for this semester.

The intern team played a huge part in isolating principles from past podcast episodes and creating two meaningful audio visual trailers that incorporated the principles that were organically shared by guests. Click here and here to watch / listen to the videos created by Thomas Akiona and Garrett Coleman. Make sure you visit Travel With Meaning website and Youtube channel to check out great blogs and videos from the intern team.

All of the work and research the intern team did

This was a very talent bunch and we can't wait to see where their journeys take them. A big thank to the Fall 2021 intern for their contributions to the future of meaningful travel storytelling with TWM - thank you Trisha Sacramone, Sierra Sorrentino, Garrett Coleman, Amrit Pannu, Amogh Matthews, Thomas Akiona and Daniela Lobo-Rivera.

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Hello Meaningful Travelers:

You're in for a treat as this is our second in person interview of season 4. Not only is this an in person interview, but it's with a guest who shared inspiring travel stories with us as part of Travel Talk Live (click here) to watch that awesome conversation. and now....Meet Alexandra Cheney, A travel writer, culture reporter and content creator, employing the best medium to tell stories; for print, digital and social, through writing, photography and videography.

She focuses on wellness, automotive, luxury, and culture writing for several publications, both national and international, including the New York Times, Elite Traveler, Luxury Magazine, Interior Design, AFAR, Architectural Digest, Departures and Cool Hunting.

Prior to transitioning into travel, she led the film team at Variety as a senior film and business reporter covering the studios, including Sony, Warner Bros., Universal and DreamWorks Animation as well as industry trends, co-financing deals, executive changes and the economics of the studios' film slates.

Prior to Variety, Alexandra worked for the Wall Street Journal, where she helped launch the Journal's culture coverage. A passionate ocean advocate, when she's not writing or traveling, Alexandra can be found surfing her local break. Enjoy our conversation.

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Hello Meaningful travelers! Welcome to a special episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast. This was the first live conversation we've had with a guest in person since the pandemic. This episode was recorded at the beautiful Austin Hope Winery in Paso Robles. Our guest Adam Montiel, is a long time popular morning show radio DJ in California’s Central Coast hosting "Up & Adam in the Morning" on Coast 104.5. He also hosts "Cork Dorks" incorporating his love and passion for wine on KRUSH 92.5. In 2020, Adam took his wine knowledge love for Paso Robles and launched the podcast "Where Wine Takes You" in association with Paso Robles Wine Country. His podcast highlights candid stories from Paso Robles wine country, fun stories and great insider tips. It’s currently the fastest growing wine podcast in America, available wherever you get your podcasts including Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Amazon, and more. Big thank you to Paso Robles Wine Country for the support with this episode.

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

We had the opportunity to speak with Wellness Travel Coach and Founder of The Travel Coach Network, Sahara Rose De Vore. The Travel Coach Network is a global community of travel coaches and travel professionals. Sahara is also a published author and global speaker. She spent over a decade traveling the globe as a solo female backpacker visiting more than 84 countries. Sahara has two passions within her businesses. One is to educate and inspire companies to tap into the wellness benefits of travel to enhance their employee, business traveler, and consumer experiences as well as coach and guide other travel entrepreneurs to build a travel business that is unique to their own area of expertise, which she does through her travel coach certification program.

I hope this episode inspires you as much as it inspired us. Enjoy.

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

This episode we had the chance to speak with J.J. Kelley. J.J. Kelley is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker and explorer focusing on issues of conservation and wildlife crime. Three of Kelley’s documentaries have been featured on the cover of National Geographic magazine, including the Emmy-nominated “Warlords of Ivory,” and he is a producer and correspondent for National Geographic Channel’s flagship documentary series, “EXPLORER.” From being a director on the Bering Sea’s “Deadliest Catch” to leading the exclusive coverage of the tomb of Christ being opened for the first time in 800-years, Kelley’s countless expeditions and work for National Geographic all began when he decided—at age 19—to load his pickup truck up with camping gear and drive from the lower 48 up to Seward, Alaska.

Buckle in for a wild ride with J.J. Kelley in this episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast!

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

Today's podcast features Ernest White II!

Ernest White II is a storyteller, explorer, executive producer and host of television travel docu-series FLY BROTHER with Ernest White II, currently airing in the United States on Public Television Stations and Create TV nationwide. He is also founder and CEO of Presidio Pictures, a new film, television, and digital media studio centering BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and senior/elder narratives.

Our conversation with Ernest touches on his childhood love of maps and geography (the origin of his travel bug), the importance of fostering authentic connections within the global community, and more!

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Hello Meaningful travelers!

Welcome to this week's episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast. Today we are joined by fellow podcaster, Comedian and TV host Mike Siegel. Mike created the Travel Tales Podcast – a lighthearted conversation highlighting the best and worst experiences that travel has to offer.

He was the host of TBS network’s “TBS Movie EXTRA”, and hosted numerous network shows including HGTV’s “If Walls Could Talk”, Fine Living networks’ “What You Get For the Money”, “GSN Live” on the Game Show Network, and “The Next GAC Star” on GAC.

"I realized I never tire of meeting people from around the world, and hearing stories from those who had been to wherever I hadn’t. "

-Mike Siegel

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast!

Today we speak with the Founder and CEO of Portico Travel, Jacqueline Hampton.

Portico helps you save, plan, organize, and share amazing adventures. Get ready to be inspired and have some fun, even before you depart.

Tune in to today's podcast to find out what travel means to Jacqueline Hampton and to hear some amazing travel stories.

"I’m always up for a trip anywhere, whether it’s a place I’ve been many times or a new adventure. I enjoy tucking down side streets to see real life, and one of my favorite ways to experience a place is through its food. The more I travel, the more I value both the similarities and differences in people around the world."

-Jacqueline Hampton

Enjoy!

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Hello Meaningful Travelers!

In this episode we speak with Ryan Hitzel. Ryan is the Founder and Creative Director of The Roark Revival, a brand that follows a wayward adventurer named Roark around the globe making apparel and trinkets inspired by the travels. Previous to Roark, Ryan was an Associate Creative Director on Volkswagen at Deutsch Advertising in Los Angeles. He resides with his family in Laguna Beach, Ca.

"I grew up travelling a ton, and as an artist I’d do my best to document it through photography, painting and writing – often shows or books. It led me to 5 years working for Volcom in the Art Department in the early 2000’s and then as a Creative Director in Advertising prior to starting Roark. Around 2010, the surf and outdoor industries bored me. They were formulaic and sterile, too big. It seemed to me that they had lost their way. I saw a lack of storytelling and the types of adventures I enjoyed off the beaten path. There was little care about moments that enriched ones development and excitement to learn about other cultures. I thought I could apply the things I loved to a brand that did more than just make clothes and get tubed. It seemed like an opportunity to literally tie the stories to the product and create something that wasn’t a surf, skate or outdoor brand. A brand that was focused on the lifestyle of adventurism. Roark was born."

Listen to the amazing and inspiring travel stories that Ryan has to share in this episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast. Hope you enjoy this one!

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Welcome to the Travel With Meaning Podcast Season 4! A very special guest, Beth Santos, the founder and CEO of Wanderful joins us on this episode of TWM™. Wanderful is a global lifestyle brand and inclusive community of thousands of travelers and travel content creators. Wanderful reaches over 45,000 women each year through a thriving online membership network, local chapter events in 50 cities, global summits and small group trips. In 2014, Wanderful launched the WITS Travel Creator + Brand Summit, a leading event for women and gender diverse travel creators and industry hosted on two continents each year listed by Forbes as one of the top inspiring events for women to attend. Wanderful is also the creator of the annual Bessie Awards to honor women of impact in travel, as well as the first major outdoor festival for women travelers, Wanderfest. Wanderful has been recognized in Business Insider, Yahoo!, The Chicago Tribune, Lonely Planet, Matador Network, and Skift, among other publications. Beth is both a Tory Burch Fellow as well as a Zell Fellow, and has been named one of 17 changemakers shaping the future of the travel industry by Business Insider, and one of 10 people shaping the future of Boston by Timeout. In 2014, she was named a top 100 travel blogger in the USA and invited to the White House under the Obama Administration. She was the co-founder of #AtTheTable, a national movement to support female founders. Today, Beth is an acclaimed thought leader, consultant for travel brands and destination marketing organizations, and keynote speaker who has collaborated with organizations such as Tripadvisor, the Girl Scouts of the USA, and the Travel & Adventure Show. She is a graduate of the Kellogg School of Management and Wellesley College, and lives in Boston with her husband and two daughters.

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Described by Downbeat Magazine as "an exquisite singer-songwriter", Joanna's music conveys a beauty of a many-coloured sort that speaks to straight to the human condition. Her songs reveal personal truths about love, loss, adventure, home and hope. World Music Report described it as "quintessential heart-music by a vocalist who seems to have connected with the deepest recesses of her being emerging into brightness again with songs of haunting beauty."

Joanna is a master in the art of live vocal looping and as a multi-instrumentalist plays baritone ukulele, piano, flute, Indian shruti box, kalimba and melodica. Her music defies genre classification as she effortlessly imbues her songs with nuances of jazz, classical, art-song, and folk, carrying her "clear-eyed poetry" (Boston Globe) and "striking vocals" (Hothouse). Her songwriting extends beyond just lyrics and melody - Joanna also arranges for ensembles including string quartets, winds, a cappella voices and more.

Joanna's career has taken her around the globe. She first studied to be a painter at Central Saint Martins, London. This led her to Paris, where she sang on the bridges of the Seine with the "Rene Miller Wedding Band". Following this formative time she did a masters in jazz at Guildhall School of Music and Drama. In 2012 she moved to New York City where she forged an indelible musical path, appearing and collaborating with musicians including Dan Tepfer, Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Werner, Sam Newsome, Lee Konitz, to name a few. She released her debut album, Wild Swan, in 2011, featuring Joe Martin, Sam Newsome, Rob Garcia and Art Hirahara. In 2015 she signed with Sunnyside Records who released The Origin of Adjustable Things, an intimate duo project with pianist Dan Tepfer. As a follow up to this success she recorded Gardens In My Mind, her third album of self-penned songs and arrangements, featuring the award winning string ensemble The Sacconi Quartet, and Dan Tepfer on piano. In 2018 she self-released her fourth record, Blood and Bone, which London Jazz said, "overflowed with creativity and musical resources." 2019 marks the release of her fifth record entitled Far Away From Any Place Called Home.

Joanna’s unique musical background shines through in her own compositional style, evoking her classical routes with her love of jazz, art-song, folk and pop, pushing boundaries of genre and stylistic expectations. Her musical heritage is something to behold. Raised by classical musician parents, Australian violinist Elizabeth Wallfisch and London born cellist Raphael Wallfisch, her grandmother Anita Lasker Wallfisch, now 94, survived Auschwitz because she played the cello in the camp’s women's orchestra. Post liberation she became a founding member of the English Chamber Orchestra. Brother Simon is a renowned cellist and opera singer, and eldest brother Benjamin is an Oscar and Grammy nominated film composer. The Great Song Cycle: An adventurer at heart, in August 2016 Joanna embarked on a solo concert tour of the West Coast of the USA, by bicycle. Over the course of 1,154 miles she performed 16 solo shows between Portland and Los Angeles carrying her instruments, camping gear, and everything else she needed upon her bike. In her inimitable way she turned this once-in-a-lifetime experience into a 60-minute song-cycle, a recorded album and a memoir. She has performed the live piece in theatres including: National Sawdust, NYC, Boston Court Performing Arts Centre, LA, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, UK, Phoenix Theatre, UK and Joe's Pub, NYC. In June, 2019 Joanna celebrates the release of her fifth album Far Away From Any Place Called Home, and her debut memoir "The Great Song Cycle; Portland to Los Angeles on Two Wheels and a Song", which is being published by Australian Publishers UWA Press.

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Show Notes:

Early travel memory to a classic baseball stadium (8:51)

The curiosity that led him to the real estate industry and to Marriott Hotels (15:45)

Peter’s philosophy around creating a community through travel (22:10)

Learning to travel in an RV during the pandemic (34:30)

Handling the Starwood/Marriott merger (40:26)

Struggles and successes with updating the group’s Rewards Program (47:30)

What Does Travel Mean to You (54:38)

Speed Round (55:40)

Peter B. Cole; Founder, Eclectic Companies

Peter was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. Yet, he didn’t really appreciate the “Midwestern Nice”, until he moved to the East Coast, went for a run and said good morning to everyone in Central Park, only to be looked at like a crazy person.

Peter is a lifelong hospitality veteran, whose eclectic sense of curiosity has led him to distinct leadership positions. He started his career at Marriott in the world of finance supporting the company’s M&A efforts. His financial skills allowed him to experience various sides of the hospitality business from hotel development through operations to corporate office.

Peter gained a deep understanding of the luxury industry and international operations during his time as the CFO of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Later, his knowledge and wealth of expertise enabled him to successfully lead the Marriott/Starwood integration as Managing Director. During this time he oversaw a wide array of activities, including hotel operations, organizational design, talent management, loyalty programs, system integration, financial management, and unit growth.

Most recently, Peter was the CEO of Design Hotels, a highly curated portfolio of independent, design-driven hotels that function as social hubs and spaces for purposeful experiences. This time helped Peter deepen his belief in the power of working through a community and of curating experiences. Under his leadership the company launched Further, a laboratory for collaborative culture, and won a Skift Innovation award for its original Virtual Retreats.

Through these experiences Peter saw an opportunity to help forward-thinking entrepreneurs capture emerging trends by leveraging his background and expertise. Consequently, he formed the Eclectic Companies.

Peter is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and holds an MBA from the University of Maryland. He is an avid swimmer and cyclist, and he loves to travel and explore new places. He enjoys a strong espresso, a good glass of wine or a neat pour of bourbon while listening to an eclectic collection of music.

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On this episode, we reconnect with two old friends: air travel—it had been sixteen months since our last flight; and Los Cabos, Mexico—it had been twenty-five years since our last visit. We were invited by Los Cabos Tourism to take part in a FAM trip aboard the inaugural JetBlue direct LAX to San Jose del Cabo flight. There were festivities at the airport, on board and on arrival. Talk about a great way to return to air travel. This episode will give a detailed recap of the trip and experiences. It will also share some conversations with fellow travelers and locals, asking what travel means to them and what their hope is for the future of travel, post-Covid. Hope you enjoy this episode, and if you're looking for a great getaway Los Cabos has something to everyone.

Conversations on this episode with:

Susie Najera (15:30) https://www.visitloscabos.travel/

Fernando del Toro (15:50) https://www.cabovillasbeachresort.com/

Lindsay Myers (20:43) https://getlostwithlindsay.com/

Mark Watson (21:01) https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/

Ubaldo Martinez (21:20) https://www.lostamarindos.mx/

Rachel Harshfield (31:01) https://www.rachelharshfieldwellness.com/

Jill Chapman (31:13) https://www.instagram.com/jillslivingwell/

Eleni Rabadan (31:26) https://www.sunsetmonalisa.com/

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Jeannette Ceja is an award-winning bilingual travel journalist, television host, travel advisor, and global public speaker. Over the past ten years, she has interviewed countless celebrities, politicians, athletes, and travel experts, including Samantha Brown, Rick Steves, and Anthony Bourdain. Jeannette’s travel segments have appeared on ABC7 Los Angeles, WTTW Chicago, FOX 11 Los Angeles, Mexico Travel Channel, KUSI News, and other prominent media outlets around the world. A seasoned journalist, Jeannette is known for her expertise on women’s travel and the Latinx demographic. Her work encompasses luxury travel, female travel, and diversity travel. Jeannette’s dedication has taken her to over 60 countries to date.

A respected and sought-after host, Jeannette has emceed the New York Travel Festival, the Changemaker Awards, Global Voice Awards, and the Impact Travel Immersion Global Conference. In 2018, Jeannette was the Official Travel Host for the World Woman Summit at the Clinton Presidential Center. The following year, she was recognized as one of the Top 20 Global Women of Excellence by U.S. Congressman Danny K. Davis and the Multi-Ethnic Advisory Task Force at the 7th Annual International Women’s Day Celebration.

Jeannette has been nominated multiple times for her work by the Los Angeles Business Journal at the Women’s Council & Awards. She was a nominee for Best Travel Creator at The Tecla Awards - part of the 10th annual Hispanicize conference - honoring Latinx contributions to media. She has partnered with tourism boards, including Visit Pasadena as their official bilingual spokesperson for National Plan For Vacation Day.

A passionate advocate, Jeannette has spoken about the need for more diversity and inclusion in the travel industry at conferences including The Women Economic Forum- Egypt, The Women in Travel Summit, The New York Travel Festival, Tourism in Romania Conference, Impact Travel Immersion Conference, Epic Mastermind Conference, Travel Talks, the Travel Unity- Economic Development through Diversity Summit and The Women Economic Forum- Mexico City.

She is on the Board of Directors at the non-profit organization, Travel Unity. Jeannette is an active member of The National Association of Hispanic Journalists. She aims to assist and represent every traveler with a special emphasis on women, diversity, youth, and travelers with disabilities.

Jeannette can be found on Instagram @jetsetwithjeannette.

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A special solo episode, quickly checking in with all of you, dear listeners, after this crazy year we've had. As we can now see the light at the end of the tunnel of the pandemic, I reflect on what the meaning of travel is, the things we took for granted, and how we move forward with travel in the future.

In this episode, I talk about my thoughts about the perception of travel, the concept of "revenge travel," travel versus tourism, and my five steps to traveling with meaning.

See you on the open road!

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Konrad Waliszewski is the CEO & Co-Founder of Tripscout, a venture-backed travel company that has built one of the most popular travel entertainment and trip planning apps. He has visited approximately 100 countries and Forbes has called him a “modern day Marco Polo.”

The Tripscout app is the #1 ranked trip planning app in the AppStore, has raised $5m of venture capital, and has built an audience of 8m+ followers on Instagram across their network of travel accounts. Tripscout has maintained a fully remote team from its conception and that team currently spans 7 countries and 4 U.S. states.

Prior to Tripscout, Konrad was the COO of Speek, where he led the raise of $6m in venture capital, operations, business development, and the acquisition by Jive Communications, now LogMeIn (NASDAQ: LOGM). He was also a consultant for several private equity firms and publicly-traded companies, helping companies with special projects – including acquisitions, restructurings, strategic plans, and new businesses unit launches. He also worked as an investment banker focused on cross-border technology M&A and venture capital for some of Silicon Valley’s leading companies at GCA Savvian in San Francisco.

Konrad is a regular speaker and commentator on the future of travel, travel tech, and consumer trends. He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur Magazine, Fast Company, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Business Insider, Washington Post, Huffington Post, and Forbes.

Konrad’s mission is to make the world a more curious, compassionate, and connected place through travel, and you can follow his adventures on Instagram at @gokonrad.

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Khalil Kinsey showed an affinity for the arts and culture from a very young age. Having been exposed to the world early on through travel with his parents, he developed a deep appreciation for the similarities that bond us as human beings, as well as the diversity that is to be learned from and celebrated. Khalil has always found inspiration through creative expression, and worked in the action sports, fashion and music industries for many years where he built a reputation as a trend forecaster. With growing awareness and pride for the work of his parents in spreading the often-untaught knowledge of African American achievement and contribution, Khalil began working alongside them in 2009 and serves as General Manager and Curator for The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection. He oversees The Kinsey Collection exhibitions and properties – including operations, museum services, strategic partnerships and more.
Khalil also serves as Vice President of The Bernard and Shirley Kinsey Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that focuses on educational outreach and reform. He provides a refreshing perspective to the organization, and has a deep desire to reach the youth that so desperately need the knowledge of self. He travels around the country speaking to audiences about the importance of African American history, racial equity/social justice, as well as art collecting and cultural appreciation/preservation. With a passion for youth and youth culture, Khalil works with many organizations across the country, offering consultation in the areas of education reform, mentoring , marketing and communication. Following the family tradition, Khalil attended Florida A & M University, where he studied Journalism, and is an avid traveler.

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Phil Rosenthal is the creator and host of “Somebody Feed Phil,” an unscripted documentary series on Netflix, which combines his love of food and travel with his unique brand of humor. Rosenthal was born in Queens, New York and moved with his parents and brother to New City, New York in Rockland County, where he was raised. After graduating from Hofstra University on Long Island, where he majored in theater, he embarked on a career as an actor, writer and director in New York City. In 1989, he relocated to Los Angeles. Rosenthal’s early writing credits include the series “Down the Shore” and “Coach." In 1995, Rosenthal created the hit CBS comedy, “Everybody Loves Raymond,” which premiered in 1996. He was the Showrunner/Executive Producer for all nine years of the show's very successful run, which ended in 2005. During its original run, “Everybody Loves Raymond” was nominated for over 70 Emmy awards, and won 15 awards, including two for Best Comedy Series in 2003 and 2005. Rosenthal won the 2002 Writers Guild Award for Excellence in Television Writing for his “Everybody Loves Raymond” script, “Italy.” Rosenthal co-wrote “America: A Tribute to Heroes,” the 9/11 telethon which aired on all four networks in September 2001, for which he won a Peabody Award and an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing. Rosenthal is also an author, having penned a book on the art of comedy and the making of a sitcom classic. “You’re Lucky You’re Funny: How Life Becomes a Sitcom” was published in 2006. In April 2011, Rosenthal wrote, directed and starred in his first feature film for Sony Pictures. "Exporting Raymond,” the true story about the attempt to turn "Everybody Loves Raymond" into a Russian sitcom, was met with critical acclaim. Rosenthal’s first travel food series, “I’ll Have What Phil’s Having,” premiered on PBS in fall 2015 and received two Taste Awards as well as the winner of the 2016 James Beard Award for Best Television Program, on Location. Rosenthal lives in Los Angeles, with his wife, actress Monica Horan (who played Amy on “Everybody Loves Raymond”), and their two children.

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Mark Tsigounis was born and raised in New Jersey. There he fell in love with the Kittatinny Mountains and the famous barrier islands that litter the coastline. This passion served as kindling which fuels his service of the outdoor community today. Mark is the CEO and Founder of Hibear, where they innovate outdoor products through thoughtful design and serve an environmental mission to help eliminate single-use plastic. Their first product has been called the Swiss Army Knife of insulated bottles. They call it the All-Day Adventure Flask.
Mark has a deep love for travel and adventure. He loves hugs, trees, hugging trees, is an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, two-time Ironman, ultra runner, and Navy Veteran. He lives to inspire a lifetime of experience and fuel adventure through smart design. Because life's just better outside with friends and coffee. When he is not getting lost in the woods, he is romancing his wife and son at home in Truckee, California with his subpar guitar skills.

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Matt Wilson is Co-founder and CEO of the travel company for people ages 21-35 Under30Experiences, and author of "The Millennial Travel Guidebook". Under30Experiences has been named number 801 on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America and number 198 on Financial Times 1000 list of America's Fastest-Growing Companies.
Matt was formerly the co-founder of the media site Under30CEO (Acquired 2016) and is the Host of the Live Different Podcast on Business, Travel, Health, and Performance. He has interviewed everyone from NBA Legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar to the President of Starbucks. Matt's writing is published in Forbes, Inc. Magazine, and The Huffington Post, and he is part of the invite-only Young Entrepreneurs' Council (YEC) comprised of the world's most successful entrepreneurs 40 and younger.
Matt is a shareholder of the Green Bay Packers. He hosts yoga and fitness retreats in his free time and his personal mission is to help people live more adventurous lives.

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The Healthy Voyager, aka Carolyn Scott-Hamilton, is the creator and host of The Healthy Voyager web series, site, and overall brand. An award-winning healthy, special diet and green living and travel expert, holistic nutritionist, plant-based vegan chef, best-selling cookbook author, media spokesperson, sought after speaker, consultant and television personality, Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is a respected figure in the world of healthy lifestyle and travel as well as special diet cooking and nutrition. The Healthy Voyager aims to help people live well, one veggie at a time!

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Todd Glaser is a San Diego-born photographer, surfer, and waterman. A SURFER Staff Photographer for over a decade, Glaser is prolific for his young age, earning more than a dozen covers during his tenure at the magazine. Equally talented shooting land, water, and lifestyle photography, his work has also appeared in The New York Times, Outside, Men’s Health, GQ and the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery, in Washington DC. When he isn’t globetrotting chasing swells, treading water shooting in the tropics, or capturing images of the first wave ever ridden at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch, Glaser can be found riding waves around his home, riding his bike, and enjoying the company of his wife, Jenna.

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On the acting front, Ravi’s next appearance is in Gal Gadot and Chris Pine’s WONDER WOMAN 1984. Ravi is also co-creator and co-lead in Netflix’s upcoming half-hour comedy series MESSY, which follows an Indian woman pursuing her passion of stand-up comedy in Mumbai and is set to premiere this fall. He was most recently a lead in COME AS YOU ARE (97% on Rotten Tomatoes) opposite Hayden Szeto & Gabourey Sidibe, as well as the Seth Rogen/Charlize Theron comedy LONG SHOT, both of which premiered at SXSW 2019. The multi-hyphenate is also a prominent figure in the documentary space. His eagerly awaited docuseries RAVI PATEL’S PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS is set to premiere on HBO Max this year. Ravi acts as host, along with his loved ones, taking the audience across the globe while exploring life’s most pressing questions. Ravi is also creator and star of a docuseries exploring the emerging stand-up comedy scene in India, produced by Will Smith’s Westbrook. Ravi is most well-known for co-directing, and starring in MEET THE PATELS, a festival darling that has become one of the most streamed documentaries of the last five years. The film’s success led to an offer to adapt the documentary into a feature film through Fox Searchlight Pictures. Other notable credits include the critically-acclaimed MASTER OF NONE, IT’S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA, SCRUBS, HAWAII FIVE-0, GREY’S ANATOMY, CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, and THE COMEDIANS. Formerly an investment banker, Ravi is the co-founder of This Saves Lives, which donates a meal packet for every granola bar they sell. He is also an active advisor and board member to multiple food, health and wellness start-ups. He is currently based in LA with his wife (a therapist) and three year-old daughter (also a therapist).

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In a year where travel has been turned upside down I wanted to share something special with you. Enjoy sounds from a recent road trip to Eastern Sierras in California. You'll hear the stillness of the night, rain, thunder and rushing water from the Kern River. It's my hope you'll close your eyes and picture yourself standing in nature taking in the sounds for yourself. #travelwithmeaning #roadtrip

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I am an Associate Professor in Philosophy at Durham University, and an Honorary Fellow at the ACU Dianoia Institute of Philosophy. I’ve written a lot on space and time in the history of philosophy, from the seventeenth to the twentieth century. My other metaphysical interests include substance, change, idealism, process, identity, and God.

I’m also fascinated by philosophical questions around travel, explored in my popular book The Meaning of Travel: Philosophers Abroad (2020, Oxford University Press). From the “Age of Discovery” to the present day, I ask after travel issues that have hooked philosophers, including the nature of maps, wilderness, and the significance of our little blue planet. The Meaning of Travel has been reviewed The Wall Street Journal, The Spectator, and Literary Review; and it’s led to many radio and print interviews. This article introduces the very idea of philosophy of travel.

I have also published two scholarly books. Absolute Time: Rifts in Early Modern British Metaphysics (2018, Oxford University Press) explores the view, popularised by Newton, that time or duration is a kind of thing. Early Modern Women on Metaphysics (2018, Cambridge University Press) recovers the views of women philosophers who have traditionally been neglected in the history of my discipline. Elsewhere I authored the first scholarship ever on the philosophy of Hilda Oakeley, and of May Sinclair.

I’ve recently begun a new research project, on early twentieth century metaphysics of time. Does the present moment move? Is the future real? Does time have a direction? At the turn of the twentieth century, why did British philosophers become so worried about these questions? This is supported by an AHRC Leadership Fellows grant.

I am committed to getting philosophy out beyond the academy, via popular articles, podcasts, and radio. My writing has appeared in venues such as Aeon, the New Statesman, and The Conversation. You can hear me talking about time on BBC Radio 4’s In Our Time; and about travel on BBC Radio 4’s Start the Week. In 2016 and 2018 I was shortlisted for the BBC New Generation of Thinkers competition.

Previously, I studied for my PhD at Christ’s College, Cambridge. Afterwards I held a postdoc at the University of Groningen. My earlier work has been supported by a Netherlands Research Council “Veni” grant, and a British Academy “Rising Star” grant. I am a Fellow of the UK’s Higher Education Academy. I sit on editorial boards for the British Journal for the History of Philosophy, the International Association for the Philosophy of Time, an upcoming Cambridge Elements history of philosophy series, and the Bloomsbury Encyclopedia of Philosophers. At Durham, I am a Senior Fellow of University “Castle” College. For my popular books I am represented by United Agents.

I tweet regularly about philosophy at @emilytwrites.

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Sometime last year, Eric Hutchinson came to a strange realization: he kept daydreaming about high-school. It had been over twenty years since the singer-songwriter had graduated from Montgomery Blair High School, yet his adolescent dreams, hopes, fears, anxieties and emotions the singer faced as a kid began flooding back; suddenly, the singer felt transported back into his teenage self. Growing up in suburban Maryland, Hutchinson’s teenage years were filled with the type of alienation and private angst recognizable to most anyone who’s ever been 16. Twenty-plus years later, the singer was finally ready to write about it. The result: Class of 98, a 90’s alt-rock-inspired autobiographical record that chronicles the singer-songwriter’s adolescence.“It took me a long time to understand myself,” Hutchinson says. “Writing this record allowed me to get into the time machine and go back and look around my old life and report from my current point of view. That was fun. The problems were waiting for me: Who likes me? Why doesn’t this person want to be around me? Why don’t I understand myself?”After experimenting with a series of genres like Americana/soul and jazz on his last few albums ModernHappiness and Before and After Life, the singer-songwriter turned to the pop-punk alt-rock of his youth for the riff-heavy Class of 98, taking inspiration from bands like Green Day, Oasis, and Weezer. “That music is in my guitar DNA,” says the singer. “I love 90’s music, and this type of sound was so formative for me.” To help round out his sound, Hutchinson recruited Justin Sharbono (formerly of Soul Asylum) to offer his distinctive (and period appropriate) guitar playing on the album. Hutchinson also enlisted the sonic guidance and mixing talents of Paul Kolderie, who’d made great 90’s records with bands like Radiohead, Hole, The Lemonheads, Buffalo Tom and The Pixies. For Hutchinson, taking such an imaginative leap with a concept as specifically personal of Class of 98was an artistic risk he knew he needed to take. “I don’t think people want me to keep making the same record, as much as anyone might think they do,” he says. The opening track “Rock Out Tonight” sets the scene with a narrative that evokes the high-drama restlessness of a group of teenagers aimlessly driving around the suburbs in a Ford Taurus. The song, says the singer, is about “wanting to be rebellious, but having no idea how to do so.”Meanwhile, cinematic songs like “Drunk at Lunch” and “Cooler Than You” show a darker underbelly of Hutchinson’s high-school introversion, echoing a theme that the singer-songwriter has been tackling in his work ever since releasing his chart-topping debut LP Sounds Like This, in 2007. “I’m always interested in asking questions in my songs: who’s cool, who gets to decide, and where do I fit into all of that?” he says.
But the emotional centerpiece of Hutchinson’s latest, and the song that was the most difficult to write, is “My Old Man,” written in the wake of his father’s passing, after years of living with Myotonic dystrophy. More than anything else on the album, the deeply personal song gets at the album’s central tension of writing from the teenage perspective while simultaneously embodying the adult point of view. “I didn’t necessarily get along with my dad in high school,” says the singer. “We were in different places in our lives and he had different things to worry about. I tried to sing this song from my perspective back then as well as my perspective now, where I’ve made peace with him.”Taken as a whole, Class of 98arrives as Hutchinson’s most playful yet distinctive work, one that will surely resonate with longtime fans of the singer’s pop-rock hits like “Rock & Roll,” “Tell the World,” and “Watching You Watch Him.”For Hutchinson, the experience of delving back into his high-school youth helped him learn a lot: about his upbringing, about parenthood, and about himself. “I like the 90’s way better,” he says, “when I’m not living in them.”

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Davis Smith grew up throughout Latin America and has since dedicated his life to helping those in need there and around the world. He's a passionate social entrepreneur and adventurer. Davis is currently the founder and CEO of Cotopaxi, an outdoor gear and active lifestyle brand – with a social mission at its core. The brand creates innovative products and experiences that fund sustainable poverty alleviation. Cotopaxi is the first company to incorporate from inception as a Benefit Corporation and raise venture capital. Davis is a lover of cultures, languages and adventure. He has camped in the Sahara, floated down the Amazon, explored North Korea, backpacked through South America, and most recently co-led the first successful crossing from Cuba to Florida via kayak. Davis holds an MBA from the Wharton School and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. He is a Fellow of the Joseph H. Lauder Institute of Management and International Studies and an alumnus of the Spanish international program. He also holds a BA in International Studies from Brigham Young University.

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Shelby Stanger has been passionate about storytelling since she inked her first article in a national publication at age 15. As a longtime adventure journalist in the outdoor sports world, Shelby has standup-paddled a portion of the Peruvian Amazon, reported about a summer-long punk concert series called the Vans Warped Tour, surfed from Tofino to Tavarua, had her own adventure column in five San Diego newspapers, and interviewed countless CEOs, entrepreneurs and pro athletes on assignment for national publications like Outside Magazine, ESPN, and Shop-Eat-Surf.com. Prior to becoming a full-time storyteller and consultant, Shelby worked at the iconic shoe company, Vans, where she helped oversee all the women’s branding and later the international marketing for the Americas and Australasia regions. She later served as a media consultant to brands including Nike, PrAna, Body Glove, and Eagle Creek.

In 2016, Shelby created Wild Ideas Worth Living, a podcast show, currently presented by REI Co-Op. The show features high-impact interviews with world-class adventurers, authors, scientists, athletes, health experts and explorers who have turned their own wild ideas into a reality. She also hosts LifeChangingPlaces, a new podcast presented and created by Lufthansa about how traveling to a new place can change your life forever.

In addition to her work as a storyteller and journalist, Shelby is a longtime board member and volunteer for Outdoor Outreach, a non-profit that helps empower at-risk kids in San Diego through outdoor programming like rock climbing, snowboarding and hiking.

The common thread to everything she does: A little adventure is life’s antidote. To second chances. To soul seeking. To success. When not on assignment or behind a microphone, the San Diego native enjoys sampling the best coffee, surf breaks and smoothies around the county.

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We've all heard a tall tale or two, but when it comes to Captain Dan Blanchard—well, he's the real thing. Growing up in Washington State, he has always been around boats. Even as a kid, Dan worked alongside other family members restoring the family's wooden tug. And the reward of all that hard work paid off in a big way—exploring winding waterways, beachcombing on remote shores, oyster picking and clam digging, learning to skin dive, incredible wildlife and cultural encounters, and a lifetime on the water. At this point, it's just part of his genetic makeup.

Dan's unassailable career began early. As an accomplished Sea Scout, his leadership skills earned him honors of Regional Boatswain and National Boatswain Mate when he was 16. At 18, he received his Ship Master's License. He attended Everett Community College, and from there he's lived a storied-tale—owner and operator of Blanchard Marine; Captain of sightseeing vessels at Glacier Bay Lodge in Alaska; 14 years at Alaska Sightseeing/Cruise West working through the ranks from Captain to Director of Marine Operations to Vice President of Operations; and in 1999, he joined American Safari Cruises. Dan acquired the company in 2008 and as Principal/CEO, launched InnerSea Discoveries, a new small boat expedition company specializing in active adventures on the water. In January 2013, the company changed its name to Un-Cruise Adventures.

A natural storyteller (2012 winner of Seattle's annual "Stories of the Sea" contest), enthusiastic skier and cyclist, energetic hiker, world-explorer in off-the-chart places, accomplished sailor, ocean lover, lover of the natural world, and lover of life are just a few of the tags and feverish passions you can pin on Dan. And in May 2013, he was adopted into a native Tlingit tribe. He's living the dream and wouldn't have it any other way. For Dan, it can't get much sweeter with both of his kids in the biz working beside him—it's safe to say it's in their genes too.

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With her first three recordings, 2003’s The Love EP, 2005’s breezy twentythree and 2008’s Hello, Tristan Prettyman parlayed her smoky alto voice and laid-back surfer-girl-from-San-Diego charm into an eight-year career studded with highlights that included Hello’s No. 2 position on the iTunes Digital Albums chart and headlining tours across the U.S., Europe, and Japan.
But instead of capitalizing on the attention and immediately making plans to record a third album after wrapping two years of touring in support of Hello, Prettyman took an extended break during which she traveled the globe, had surgery to remove polyps on her vocal cords, got engaged to her long-term boyfriend, dealt with the pain of his ending the engagement, and eventually questioned whether she even wanted to be a musician at all.
“I was really burnt out and uninspired, so I decided to take some time off,” Prettyman says. “I went to Bali, Australia, and Europe and kind of went crazy. Life went from all these obligations to eating good food, meeting amazing people, and flowing with the wind. Then when I got back and tried to sing again, we found the polyps, so I had surgery and had to recover. Through it all, I was one foot in and one foot out of whether I wanted to do music at all. I had periods of time where I was numb and immune to feeling. My walls were up really high and I was on my guard. Then this fairy-tale picture of what my life could have been was set on fire. That brought all my walls down; it was a relief to finally feel something again.”
Prettyman chronicles the experience on her new album, the raw, emotionally charged Cedar + Gold, which finds her sifting through the wreckage of her relationship and emerging stronger on the other side. “I started writing songs from a place that was so deep and honest, where I didn’t hold anything back,” she says. “It felt so good. I was like, ‘This is what music is about — being able to release what is trapped inside of you.’ Whenever anything ached or caused me pain, I’d tell myself, ‘Save it for the record.’”
With an artistry that lies in her finely etched lyrical details and intimate vocal performances, Prettyman spares no one, including herself, on songs like “Say Anything,” “I Was Gonna Marry You,” “Come Clean,” “Glass Jar,” and “Never Say Never,” which ends a heartbreaking spoken-word outro: “You can’t start a fire in the pouring rain.”
Prettyman wrote several of the songs with Dave Hodges, whom she first met the morning after a particularly emotional night. “I go meet Dave and I’m late and I’m crying,” she says. “I’m just a ball of snot, like, ‘Hi, I’m Tristan and I’m a mess.’” That session yielded the completion of the album’s opening track “Say Anything” — an open-hearted tune about finding freedom in letting go. The second session resulted in the no-holds-barred “I Was Gonna Marry You.” “It was like, ‘Wow, I’m getting really transparent here and being really specific,’” Prettyman recalls. “But once I walked through the door of honesty there was no telling where I was going. I’d never spoken out before about the way it really was, but I found myself saying ‘Screw it, I’m going to tell the whole story.’”
As intense as some of the songs may be, the mood is tempered not only by playful, lighthearted tunes like first single “My Oh My” (“about someone still having their hand on you and you playing that game with them because it’s fun, even though you know it’s not good for you and it’s going to backfire”), “The Rebound,” “Quit You,” and the sexy, smoldering “Bad Drug,” but also by the album’s warm, earthy sound, which Prettyman created with her producer Greg Wells (Adele, Katy Perry), who plays piano, bass, drums, and some guitar on the album. “Greg told me he was not going to hold my hand through this; I had to convince him I wanted it,” she says. “He forced me to step into really being a musician and owning what I do. Once I did that, I got super creative and the songs started coming from a different place. It was a very intuitive process.”
When mixing on Cedar + Gold wrapped, Prettyman went back to her hotel room and burst into tears. “I couldn’t believe it was done,” she says. “I got everything out. It no longer lived in me. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I finally felt free.”
Cedar + Gold (whose title refers to both the cedar walls and ceilings in the home where she recovered from her heartbreak and the gold she spun from her situation in the songs) is an album that manages to be both deeply personal, but highly relatable to anyone who’s had the ground collapse under them and fought their way back to healing. “It’s actually a very hopeful album in a lot of ways, which I think is a common theme in all my records,” she says. “The idea that ‘things may be a bit crappy right now, but let’s make the most of it’ is very reflective of me as a person and my outlook on life. I always try to look at the bigger picture of why something is happening. And I love that I was able to go so deep and dig around in places I never thought I could access and still remain hopeful at the end of the day.”

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Zim Flores is a believer, traveler, speaker & entrepreneur.
In 2013, she started Travel Noire, an award-winning boutique travel company. By the time the brand was acquired in 2017, it reached 2MM travelers each month and sold out of every product it brought to market, building a legion of loyal followers and customers along the way.
At 19 years old, she cloned a gene with similarities to a genetic disorder and became the youngest precinct judge for the state of North Carolina. Her love for solving tough problems and her knack for building communities on and offline has led her to critical acclaim.
This Forbes 30 under 30 awardee has been featured in the New York Times, TIME, CBS This Morning, ELLE, The Nation, Essence, NPR, among others, and was awarded by Glamour Magazine as one of 25 Young Women Changing the World. Before it’s third year in business, Travel Noire was named one of the Most Innovative Companies in the World by Fast Company. The following year, she was hand-selected by Oprah for SuperSoul 100, a collection of inspired leaders using their voices and talents to elevate humanity.
Currently, she works with her husband to acquire, grow and sell small online businesses and is the host of The Bloom Podcast, a column-style podcast defining what it means to live passionately for God in a lukewarm world.
With a vision almost as grand as the world we live in, Zim is committed to inspiring today’s generation to live out their Kingdom purpose.

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Steve Bramucci is a novelist, travel/food writer, adventurer, teacher, and storyteller. He’s rowed down the Mekong River in a traditional Vietnamese x’ampan, ventured into the Outback with Aboriginal elders, and spent four months driving a rickety Nissan Patrol through East Africa. His first novel, The Danger Gang & the Pirates of Borneo!, will be published by Bloomsbury on August 1st.Steve’s story of exploring a long-forgotten pirate graveyard in Madagascar won the $10K Trazzler Oasis prize and his trip across Australia in a car fueled with French fry oil was turned into a TV show. He’s written for National Geographic Books, Afar, Outside, the Orange County Register Magazine, and dozens of other outlets. He’s the founding editor of the LIFE section at Uproxx.com – a website that gets more than 20 million unique visitors each month – and has published stories in The Expeditioner’s Guide to the World, I Learned Ku Fu From a Bear Cub, Never Trust a Smiling Bear, and Eminem: Rap, Poetry, and Race.Sometimes Steve visits schools, sometimes he gets invited to cook and tell stories in people’s homes, sometimes he consults for restaurants or hotels, and sometimes he plans pirate scavenger hunts. It’s a lot to keep track of, but that’s part of the adventure. Most of all, Steve loves cool opportunities and thrives off connecting with people

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Kaj Larsen was born in Santa Cruz, California, and graduated from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a degree in Political Science. At Harvard University he received his Masters degree in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government. At Harvard, Kaj was awarded a fellowship from the Shorenstein Center for Press, Politics, and Public Policy. He was also a joint fellow at Tufts Jebsen Center for Counter-Terrorism studies. His focus includes international security policy, media politics, and political affairs.
Kaj is an award winning filmmaker and correspondent. He was recently the Senior Correspondent and Producer for Now This News. He previously hosted the Emmy award winning series VICE on HBO. At VICE Kaj has produced documentaries on conflict and national security issues. He is the only journalist to be embedded in the Nigerian fight against Boko Haram, and conducted the first exclusive interview with the architect of the CIA’s enhanced interrogation program. Prior to Now This and Vice Kaj was a correspondent at CNN as a member of CNN’s Special Investigations and Documentary unit. His on-camera career began in 2005 when he covered the war in Afghanistan for Current TV. At Current TV Kaj helped develop the Emmy Award winning Vanguard Journalism series. He was the first journalist to bring the issue of waterboarding to the public by having himself waterboarded on TV. He broke the media silence on Somalia by being the first western TV journalist in Mogadishu in over a decade. He has since gone on to report from war zones and conflict spots around the world, in places such as Pakistan, Yemen, Cambodia, Colombia, West Africa, and Latin America. His feature documentaries have covered topics ranging from the drug war in Mexico to the devastating floods in Pakistan to Wikileaks. His reporting is distinguished by his in-field and in-depth examination of difficult and dangerous topics around conflict zones, national security, and criminal justice.
Kaj’s intrepid reporting and powerful filmmaking has put him at the vanguard of a new broadcast journalism. He frequently appears on other media outlets such as ABC, NBC, MSNBC, and the Huffington Post. He was the senior correspondent and host of The Current Election, a daily show about politics and public policy. As a producer Kaj has created hit television series such as US Navy Pirate Hunters, a one-hour special for Spike TV, and LOCKUP the highly rated show about life in American prison for air on MSNBC. He was Aaron Sorkin’s private consultant on the hit HBO series Newsroom. His work has earned him critical acclaim including an Emmy nomination, a Peabody nomination, two Telly awards, and several Golden Cine awards.
Prior to his work in television, Kaj spent five years on active duty serving as a US Navy SEAL. As a Lieutenant he led a team of special warfare personnel in covert operations overseas deploying as a detachment Commander in support of the Global War on Terrorism. He continues his service as a SEAL reserve officer assigned to US Special Operations Command.
Kaj is a two time national champion open-water swimmer, and placed third in the Escape from Alcatraz duathalon. Kaj has lived extensively overseas, including Thailand, where he studied Muay Thai boxing. He is a practitioner of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and frequently competes in mixed martial arts competitions.
Kaj used his pay from the service to help launch The Mission Continues, and served on the Board of Directors for five years. Kaj also serves on the Boards of Advisors to the Veteran service organization Team Rubicon Global. He has deployed three times in support of Team Rubicon to render Humanitarian assistance in Pakistan, the Philippines, and the US.

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Sarah Dandashy is recognized as one of the leading concierges in the world. People seek her out for her travel tips, advice, and knowledge of trends from the “frontlines of travel.”
Award-winning, she was named “Best Young Concierge” by Les Clefs d’Or International, making her the Miss Universe equivalent of the concierge profession.
She has worked at some of the most prestigious hotels, including The London West Hollywood, Four Seasons Washington DC, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, and The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
A graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, Sarah has lived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; London, England; Atlanta, GA; Washington, DC; New York City; and now Los Angeles. She has traveled throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the US.
Conversational in French and basic knowledge of Arabic, she can comfortably navigate the streets of Paris, negotiate a plate of free falafel, and bust out some solid dance moves she learned on the streets of Hotlanta. Clearly, she is no ordinary travel influencer.

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Show highlights :

7:50 impactful trip to Tanzania as a student

23:50 Crazy moment in Australia (don't try this at home)

Dr. Evan Antin hails from Kansas City, Kansas where he grew up spending the majority of his childhood in search of native wildlife including snakes, turtles, and insects. He went on to study evolutionary and ecological biology at the University of Colorado at Boulder and spent multiple semesters abroad in Australia and Tanzania to learn more about their respective ecosystems and fauna.
In addition to his love for cats and dogs, Dr. Antin’s passions lie in exotic animal medicine and interacting with exotic animals in their native habitats around the world. For more than a decade Dr. Antin has made an effort to seek opportunities to work with wildlife on a domestic and international level to include locations such as Central America, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Eastern, and Southern Africa, South East Asia and a variety of North American ecosystems. The accumulation of Dr. Antin’s hands-on experience with exotic animals has prepared him exceptionally with their handling, husbandry, and enrichment. He is capable of caring for small, delicate animals; large, dangerous animals; and of course our beloved household dogs & cats with ease and confidence.
Dr. Antin has been happily employed as a full-time associate at CVVH directly following his graduation from Colorado State’s veterinary school in 2013. Since then he’s developed clinical medical & surgical skills to help provide the right care for the dogs, cats, exotics, and wildlife of the Conejo Valley.
Dr. Antin currently lives near Calabasas, California with his dog, Henry, his cat, Willy, his savannah monitor lizard, mangrove snake and an assortment of tropical freshwater fish. Other hobbies of his include traveling, scuba diving, snowboarding, hiking, and weightlifting.

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As President and CEO of ECOS, Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks leads the strategy and production of environmentally friendly cleaning products, including the ECOS, Baby ECOS, ECOSPetsand ECOSPROproduct lines. She has been internationally recognized for her highly effective leadership and influential voice in the green movement and in corporate social responsibility. Vlahakis-Hanks oversees four sustainable manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and a global sales team. She has implemented sustainable practices that have made ECOS a model for green American business. Under her leadership, ECOSbecame the first company to achieve the“trifecta” of sustainable manufacturing: carbon neutrality, water neutrality and TRUE Zero Waste Platinum certification. As a primary manufacturer, ECOShas received many awards for its innovations in safer green chemistry, including the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice Partner of the Year. ECOSmakes its plant-powered products using 100% renewable energy and has reduced its waste by over 98% by working closely with its suppliers to avoid waste and extensively recycling and reusing materials. Under Vlahakis-Hanks’ leadership, ECOSinstituted one of the strongest employee benefits programs in the industry, offering its employees a wide variety of benefits such as medical insurance, paid sick and family leave, disability coverage and onsite wellness programs. The company also offers financial incentives to employees who make sustainable living choices such as purchasing alow-emissions vehicle or solar panels. To help support working families, Vlahakis-Hanks implemented a “living wage” policy in 2014 that raised the company’s minimum wage to $17 per hour, one of the highest in the industry. She actively promotes a corporate culture of diversity and empowerment, and more than 50%of her C-Suite and top executives are women. A graduate of UCLA and the Chapman University Argyros School of Business and Economics, Vlahakis-Hanks has been featured on CNN, ABC News, FOX News, NBC News, Bloomberg and Marketwatch and in the Los Angeles Times and the Orange County Register. She has received many awards for her sustainable leadership, including Global Green’s Corporate Environmental Leadership Award and Green Building & Design’s Women in Sustainability Leadership Award. She was named one of Conscious Company’sWorld-Changing Women in Conscious Business and Orange CoastMagazine’s Remarkable Women. She is an active member of several boards, including the Environmental Media Association. By lending her voice to industry councils and policy advocacy, Vlahakis-Hanks works to promote higher standards for product manufacturing that protect consumer health and the environment. Vlahakis-Hanks has dedicated herself to the pursuit of green chemistry innovation, environmental protection and social advocacy. Vlahakis-Hanks resides in southern California with her husband, teenage daughter and rescue dog Mina.

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Michael is the youngest Canadian / American male (dual citizen) and #265 person on record to visit all 193 UN nations. Taking him just over 6 years, (72 months) to visit all 193 countries, documenting his journey on his channel Global Degree. Michael truly earned his Global Degree as he connected with people and experienced local traditions in every country he visited. Upon completion of his Global Degree Michael gave a TED Talk in Oxford England about passport accessibility.

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Hello Travel Friends! I’m connecting with you during interesting times. I hope you’re all safe, healthy and staying positive. In this solo cast episode I talk about the power of travel and how it can help us all heal. Stay connected. Stay inspired. Stay Creative. Be Well. Be Safe. Be Grateful #Travelwithmeaning #poweroftravel #Travelstories

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Our conversation with Chef Eric Adjepong was held in front of a live audience at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) as part of Bermuda Restaurant Weeks 2020. Chef Eric was in Bermuda to cook several meals as part of Restaurant Weeks with the highlight being the Bermuda Culture and Heritage Dinner. Chef Eric talks about the special menu he planned with local chefs from Bermy Eats featuring locally harvested foods and unique Bermuda flavors (12:22). During our talk you’ll also hear Chef Eric mention his thesis that he wrote while attending the University of Westminster for his Masters. Part of the research of his thesis took him to Ghana and ultimately helped him down the path to cooking the West African cuisines that he loves. (20:42). Chef Eric has made his thesis available for the public through the Bermuda National Library. Chef Eric was a finalist on Season 16 of Bravo's Top Chef and will be returning for Top Chef Season 17 AllStars, premering March 19th on Bravo. As a first-generation Ghanaian-American born and raised in New York City, Eric sources the flavors and influences in his cooking from many of the West African dishes he grew up eating. He is passionate about introducing diners to West African cuisine and the impact its diaspora has had on South American, Latin American, Caribbean, and American food, all in his elegant, artfully plated style. Chef Eric will be opening his first restaurant On The Double at the famed D.C Food Hall Union Market in Spring 2020. Co-founder of Pinch & Plate alongside wife and decorator Janell Adjepong. Prior to launching Pinch & Plate, Eric cooked in several Michelin-starred restaurants in New York after graduating with degrees in culinary arts and nutrition from Johnson & Wales, one of the country's premiere culinary universities. He also holds a Master of Public Health in International Public Health Nutrition from the University of Westminster in London.

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Founded in 1806, the Gosling’s brand achieved renown almost exclusively because of its distinctive dark Bermuda rum. That soon changed when Malcolm Gosling took the reins in 2003.
As the seventh Gosling to steer the Bermudian family business, Malcolm brought an abiding respect for the brand heritage to the table, but he also brought a contemporary sense of marketing, business acumen and appetite for growth.
Born and raised in Paget, Bermuda, Malcolm attended Boston College and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, then returned to join the family business. Almost immediately he realized the considerable export potential of the locally popular Gosling’s Black Seal Rum. In 1985 he became Director of Gosling’s Limited where he oversaw domestic product and sales operations while also mapping a strategy for eventual entry into overseas markets.
With time and perseverance, Malcolm advanced to Vice President and Managing Director of Gosling’s Limited. In 2003 he finalized the formation of Gosling’s Export (Bermuda) Limited where, as President, he launched his long-planned strategy to expand the family brand worldwide into new markets with new products.
First step was forming Gosling-Castle Partners, Inc. in the U.S with Malcolm as President and CEO. Second step was relocating to Boston with his wife and two children where he could better focus on his aggressive plans.
Since then, Malcolm has taken a series of determined steps to ensure that the Gosling’s brand name and products continue to expand in popularity.
Today, the brand once known in limited regions for its unique Black Seal Rum is becoming known internationally not only for its signature dark rum but for a range of products, programs, awards, and honors.

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Christy and Aras Baskauskas - As individuals they’ve both traveled the world extensively seeing it through different lens and experiences….Christy grew up in small town in Northern California and traveled the world as a very successful model and Aras grew up in Santa Monica spent time overseas as an athlete, musician, yogi and winner of TV reality show Survivor.…..in 2013 Christy and Aras co-founded the eco-friendly clothing brand Christy Dawn (www.christydawn.com) focusing on dead stock fabric that brands no longer wanted …. They wanted to do something different, more ethical, environmentally friendly with longevity for the brand and everyone on the team….Christy Dawn has embarked on an exciting new Farm to Closet initiative in India continuing to up their game and make a difference giving back to the earth …for more information on Christy Dawn and their exciting Farm to Closet project visit www.christydawn.com/blogs/journal

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Tricia Huffman, aka Your Joyologist, urges you to claim your joy and own who you are every single day via her empowering social media presence, Claim it! Podcast, youtube series, affirmation based product line, daily inspiration APP and everything she does. She is a rock and roll roadie at heart and by first career who specializes on working with those in the public eye to keep them in integrity with who they want to be in the world and for themselves.

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Hunter Jones: I'm a 24-year-old professional surfer, news personality, video editor & model from Los Angeles, California. I've been fortunate enough to have been able to travel the world and surf some of the best waves on the planet and experience new cultures. From a young age, I loved being creative and found video editing and producing as a passion. My love for surfing and editing really fell hand in hand. As the former Social Media Coordinator for the WSL, I was producing content daily as well as editing global commercials & campaigns. Now as a freelance editor, I’m able to work on all different types of videos from anywhere in the world. In addition to surfing and working as a creative, I also spend a lot of time in front of the camera. I’ve starred in multiple commercials, acted as a stuntman, appeared on reality TV and co-host a daily surf based news show.I'm just stoked to be doing what I'm doing and meeting like-minded people who all share the same love for the ocean and making rad content."

Christina Ochoa is an actress, producer and science communicator with a particular focus on Wildlife. She is on the advisory board of OCEANA and is a board member of EARTHS OCEANS amongst others. Born and raised in Barcelona, she is the great-niece of NOBEL prize laureate Severo Ochoa an active member of MENSA. Christina graduated from Santa Isabel La Asunción in Madrid, and went on to study Oceanographic engineering at ULPGC, off the coast of Africa in the Canary Islands.
She continued with advanced marine biology studies at James Cook University in Australia, where she focused on Elasmobranchii, as well as taking part in programs through the Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia in Spain. A member of the Los Angeles Committee for Science for Society, official host of the Intel Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and has collaborated with MESA since 2011. Currently, she can be seen reprising her role as Renn on the TNT show ANIMAL KINGDOM, as well as on ABC's "A Million Little Things".
When she is not acting or producing with her partner Karen Gorostieta in their company QE PRODUCTIONS (Quantum Entanglement), you can usually find her working in Wildlife conservation or underwater."

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From BC: I grew up in Denver, Colorado and I love anything to do with adventure, outdoors, and story telling.

I’ve been extremely fortunate to spend the past 11 years (since 2008) traveling the world with non-profit organizations, helping share and tell their stories through film and awareness. I’ve also spent that time taking hundreds of college and high school age students on trips to teach them about heart-led leadership and global community awareness.

After working with hundreds of organizations in over 60 countries and countless amounts of students and young adults I’ve found a few different types of projects and programs. A few being The Traveling Good, Pursuing Purpose Podcast, Mentorship Mastermind and a handful of others along the way.

My goal has always been to make an impact both locally and globally, internally and externally, small and big and couldn’t have dreamt in a million years it would become a such a fun adventure where I get to bring hundreds of people around the world and locally with me to help others.

I don’t want to make this a big list of things and highlights but just a quick preview and idea of who I am and whats my “why”

I do and create everything because I either couldn’t find it or didn’t have it growing up. Whether that being a mentor to look up or creative content to be inspired by or trips around the world to help others, or local events in communities that celebrate the Good. Each and every project has a fingerprint of my hope, my faith, my why, and my love for others.

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Welcome to Episode 30 of the podcast. This is going to be a solo-cast episode. I’m honestly still amazed and beyond grateful to make it to episode 30! Huge thank you to all who have supported this endeavor and shared feedback along the way. Many more awesome podcast conversations coming up with truly extraordinary guests. This episode is actually recorded in the back on the Travellers Autobarn camper-van I was traveling in. I wanted to get out of LA on Black Friday and #Optoutside camping up the coast. My oldest nephew Howard came with me. It was a nice break for both of us. We don’t get to spend much time together as he lives north of Phoenix. He’s twenty-Two and very different from where I was in my life at twenty-two. He’s very smart, loyal and a hard worker, not saying that wasn’t me, but I had been to dozens of countries, was focused on meeting women and having crazy life experiences. Howard is a little more reserved, but he has mentioned to me several times how much he wants to travel. We talked a lot about traveling on this camping trip. I’ve told him since he graduated high school four years ago I would send him on a trip and pay his airfare and ground transportation, he just has to say when he’s ready. In sitting around the campfire drinking a beer I asked Howard so when is the right time, he said maybe February? I said what’s holding you back, he said his job. I shared with him what if I could help create an opportunity for a better job than he currently has when he returns. He loved that idea and we started working on resume together. Not sure if he will take me up on this trip in February, but I really hope so. This trip would not have been possible without my Travellers Autobarn campervan. If you follow me on social (@Schibel @Travelwithmeaning) you’ve seen me post about the van and Travellers Autobarn several times. What you might now know if I’ve had a relationship with TAB for almost ten years since my first trip to Australia. I share about how that relationship started and talk about a video I made for them during my thirty days in a station wagon driving south on the east coast of Australia. Check out the video here and don’t hesitate to connect with Travellers Autobarn for a road trip adventure - make sure you use the code Travel With Meaning for a discount.
Thanks for listening.
See you on the open road!

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Owner and Executive Chef Gio Osso captures the daily dynamism of authentic Mediterranean cooking at Virtú Honest Craft, located in Scottsdale, AZ’s Bespoke Inn. Among the laidback, coastal villa-vibe of his restaurant, Osso creates a menu that changes multiple times a week, highlighting the best ingredients sourced seasonally from across the country and around the world. “I like big, bold flavors,” Osso says, “but it has to be clean and crisp, involving all of the senses.” To allow himself the freedom to prepare such flavorful, yet simplistic, straightforward dishes, Osso spends as much time as necessary to find the ideal product, be it seafood from Spain, cheese from Italy, or spices from Northern Africa.

Much like his dishes, the chef considers each of his employees individually to ensure a happy and productive team. “Someone might need you to be a coach, someone else might need you to be a friend,” he explains. “If you give me 120%, I’ll give it right back to you—I want to foster greatness.” Overall, he strives to be the best teacher he can be.

“I started cooking when I was still in a highchair,” Osso explains, referring to the pot his mother gave him to “stir” while she prepared meals. “It was the only way I would eat—so it was no shock to my parents when I wanted to become a chef.” Although he grew up in Cliffside Park, NJ, his culinary inspiration comes from summers spent in Southern Italy on a farm in Calabria with animals, gardens, and a large family that convened every year around family recipes.

After gaining kitchen experience in New Jersey, Osso graduated from the fast-paced New York Restaurant School in 1993 at the top of his class, and cut his teeth with an externship at March under Chef Wayne Nish, in local pizzerias, and in hotel kitchens such as at the Algonquin Hotel. In 1994, John Foy’s Sonoma Grill in East Rutherford, NJ plucked Osso for its sous chef, placing him alongside Chef de Cuisine Richard Lowack. Lowack served as a culinary and operational mentor to Osso, and the two went on to work together at numerous other restaurants until Osso struck out on his own as executive chef for Stamford, CT’s Fio’ Ristorante in 1996, and then opened his own restaurant, café, retail, and catering operation, American Gourmet, two years later in Allendale, NJ.

Osso linked up with his mentor again in 2002, when Lowack requested Osso’s help in the pastry department of his new Phoenix restaurant. Soon after arriving in the desert, Osso launched Sugo Pastaria and Wine Bar, an upscale pasta-centric Italian spot. He spread his culinary influence further throughout the city by consulting on restaurants including Luc’s, Oscar Taylor, Blue Note Cellars, and Spiga. After then spending two years at Scottsdale’s Estate House, revamping the culinary program as executive chef, Osso’s career took an unexpected turn in 2010 as he jumped at an opportunity to oversee concession operations at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, via HMS Host. Managing on-site operations and an off-site commissary, Osso successfully introduced 13 local concepts to the airport, substantially elevating its culinary offerings.

Virtú Honest Craft, which debuted in 2013, sprouted in Osso’s mind back in 2006, while he spent a month traveling with friends throughout Southern Italy, sampling local Mediterranean cuisine. In the wake of Virtú’s success, Osso opened Nico Heirloom Kitchen as a posh, sophisticated spot for seasonal West Coast-inspired Italian cuisine, in Gilbert, AZ, in 2016.

Chef Osso resides in Gilbert with his wife, Bethany, their three children, and two dogs, a German shepherd and a boxer. Away from the kitchen, the musician-at-heart loves playing his guitar as often as he can, and gets his kicks on the soccer field as well—he almost became pro, once upon a time.

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Born and raised in Mechanicsville, Virginia, Jason is a singer-songwriter who first came to prominence in the San Diego coffee shop scene in 2000. In 2002 he released his debut studio album, Waiting for My Rocket to Come, which contained the hit single "The Remedy (I Won't Worry)". With the release of his second album, Mr. A-Z, in 2005, Mraz achieved major commercial success. The album peaked at number 5 on the Billboard 200 and sold over 100,000 copies in the US. In 2008 Mraz released his third studio album, We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things. It debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200 and was an international commercial success primarily due to the hit "I'm Yours". The song peaked at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving him his first top ten single, and spent a record 76 weeks on the Hot 100. His fourth album, Love Is a Four Letter Word, peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200, his highest-charting album to date. Mraz has won two Grammy Awards and received two additional nominations, and has also won two Teen Choice Awards, a People's Choice Award and the Hal David Songwriters Hall of Fame Award. He has earned Platinum and multi-Platinum certifications in over 20 countries, and has toured in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and parts of Africa. Jason is a passionate environmentalist and humanitarian lending his name, voice and support for causes that are near to his heart. His Mraz Family Farms grows avocados, coffee and passion fruit. The Jason Mraz Foundation works to shine for arts education and the advancement of equality. For information of Jason’s current and up coming tour visit Jason Mraz.

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Chris Burkard is an accomplished explorer, photographer, creative director, speaker, and author. Traveling throughout the year to pursue the farthest expanses of Earth, Burkard works to capture stories that inspire humans to consider their relationship with nature, while promoting the preservation of wild places everywhere.

Layered by outdoor, travel, adventure, surf, and lifestyle subjects, Burkard is known for images that are punctuated by untamed, powerful landscapes. Through social media, chris strives to share his vision of wild places with millions of people, and to inspire them to explore for themselves.

His visionary perspective has earned him opportunities to work on global, prominent campaigns with Fortune 500 clients, speak on the TED stage, design product lines, educate, and publish a growing collection of books. Along with his team, Burkard is based out of his production studio and art gallery in the Central Coast of California.

At the age of 32, Burkard has established himself as a global presence and influencer. He is happiest with his wife Breanne raising their two sons Jeremiah and Forrest in his hometown of Pismo Beach, California

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California born and bred, Kassia Meador began surfing at age 14. by 17-years-old, Kassia was a sponsored pro-longboarder, traveling the world and competing in surf events globally. Known for her graceful surf style, Kassia was crowned the "queen of noseriding" by the New York Times and in 2011 ranked 2nd on the WSL women's longboard tour.

Throughout her 17-year career as a competitive sponsored athlete, Kassia was actively involved in designing products under the umbrella of her sponsors. In 2013, Kassia left sponsored surfing to build a brand--that focused on quality instead of quantity--for women by women.

Since launching in 2015, KASSIA+SURF has pushed the limits of women's surf culture, lifestyle, and design. With a mission to create aquatically functional wetsuits, accessories, and lifestyle gear, KASSIA+SURF is about freedom, empowerment, and enlightenment. Delivering superior quality goods by using eco-conscious production. Future flavor with a classic twist.

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Reef McIntosh - Big Wave Surfer In this episode we sit down with Big Wave Surfer and Pipeline legend Reef McIntosh. Growing up in Kauai, Hawaii, Reef was destined for a life in the ocean. I mean just his name alone…but the journey wasn’t always easy. Reef shares intimately of his early surf trips to the North Shore, Fiji and Tahiti. These are all places Reef dreamed about as a young grom. Through his passion, perseverance and patience it led him to live his dreams as a professional surfer. You will hear in our conversation Reef shares a crazy story that got him a lot of attention in the media from Sports Illustrated and other major news outlets when the jet ski he was driving went over one falls of a wave as well as over the head of Big Wave Surfer, Raimana at Teahupoo, Tahiti (click here to watch). Reef’s story is a great reminder that dreams don’t happen over night. Stay focused on what you want, go after it, strengthen that muscle everyday and trust your path with no expectations of when it has to happen. If you find yourself in Malibu check out the authentic and upscale Mexican restaurant Reef’s family operates Casa Escobar.

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Hi! My name is April, nice to meet cha!

I was born in the 80’s. I moved around a lot in my earlier years. No, I wasn’t a military brat. We moved a lot partially because of my father’s work and partially because he was an explorer like me. I just say I’m from Louisiana and Alabama because that is where my roots come from and most of my family still lives there.

We moved away from Alabama when I was 7 years old. That was when I fell in love with traveling and the mountains. My parents along with me and my 2 sisters packed up everything we owned and moved to Ohio. Next it was beautiful Utah where we lived in the tiniest town I’ve ever lived, and many small towns along the way. I remember my childhood as being so much fun. We were always packing up and moving, taking long road trips to incredible places and camping. As a kid I had a blast!

We moved to Oregon when I was eight or nine years old. The first place we lived was way up in the mountains in a campground. The five of us lived the whole summer in a 15 foot camper. We hosted and managed the campground in exchange for food and propane. That was one of my favorite memories from my childhood. Everyday was an adventure! Living without electricity is a pretty cool experience. We even had to carry our water from the creek and heat it on the open fire to take baths in a make-shift tub out of a large cooler. Doesn’t that sound awesome!?

My mother was the best person I’ve ever known. She really was a strong woman. Through all of it she never complained. She was the master of making something amazing out of nothing. We never had a lot but we always had enough. She could take the most boring basic ingredients and make a stunning meal out of it, and outdoors to! Anytime I would complain or ask why we had to do all of this and why couldn’t we live like normal kids she would just say, “It’s an adventure! How many kids do you know that have the whole world as their backyard? You are lucky!”

My dad is such a free spirit and wanderer just like I am. He took us on the best adventures and always made sure we took “the scenic route” everywhere we went. And you better believe I was always right there with him, usually on his back or shoulders. It’s because of them that I have a love for the unknown, an appreciation for the little things, and look for every opportunity to turn a situation into an adventure.

I lived a pretty “normal” life in Oregon for 8 years, the longest I lived anywhere so far. I enjoyed goofing around and being silly with my friends growing up and summer days were spent at the river or lakes or out in the mountains. Oregon is absolutely breathtaking in the summer.

Then when I was 17 we moved to California, the summer before my senior year of high school. I got my first job at the local ski resort, Dodge Ridge, and when I graduated high school I became a full time snow bum. From the age of 17-21 I lived on the mountain and snowboarded everyday. It was the best time of my life! Then I decided it was time to grow up, so I moved to Los Angeles.

I moved to LA in 2006, and attended The Art Institute, where I got my Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design. Art school was unreal! I was at the top of my class and graduated with Honors. I was a winner at the Art Institute’s annual fashion show and even got to show my collection at LA Fashion Week, which is a big deal! After graduation I worked on some film and commercials doing wardrobe and I fell in love with costume work. I enjoy the creativity involved in Costuming and the entertainment world is a lot of fun.

A couple years ago I decided to take a step back from the Fashion world and focus my attention on something else. It’s so easy to get sucked into the hustle and bustle of the city life and forget your purpose. So I’ve been taking every opportunity to go outside and live the life I love. Not just going about the daily routine but actively LIVING life!

The fashion and the creativity will always be a part of me. Nature will always be a part of me, and I believe that it is here that I find my place. My hopes here are to inspire anyone to get out there and do the same. Start living! Do what makes you happy. Stop waiting. Feel everything. Love achingly. Give impeccably. Let go.

Xoxo,

April~

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Masekela was born in Los Angeles, the son of a Haitian mother and South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela. Masekela is also the older half-brother of Survivor: Cook Islands contestant Nathan Gonzalez. He was raised in Staten Island, New York in the same class with rapper Method Man and Carlsbad, California, where he attended Carlsbad High School. Masekela is the co-founder of Berkela Motion Pictures with Jason Bergh. When he was a teenager, Masekela's upbringing brought him to Southern California, where he was first exposed to surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding. His career began as an intern at Transworld Publications in 1992, home of TW Snow, TW Skateboarding and TW Surf magazines. He served as an NBA sideline reporter for ESPN during the 2003-2004 season. Masekela was co-host of The Daily 10, a countdown of the day's "top 10" entertainment stories, on the E! network until it was cancelled on Sept 27, 2010 (last show Oct 1, 2010). He was also host of both the X Games and Winter X Games on ESPN for 13 years but left in 2012 to work for NBC and NBC Sports Network through a contract with Red Bull Media House. He appears in the "Green" episode of Yo Gabba Gabba singing the song "Hello World" which aired on Nick Jr. on April 22, 2009. In 2010, he was hired by ESPN to help as a correspondent in its coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. While working as a correspondent, Masekela was featured, with his father, Hugh, in a series of videos on ESPN. The series, called "Umlando - Through my Father's Eyes", aired in 10 parts during ESPN's coverage of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The series focused on Hugh and Selema's travels through South Africa. Hugh brought his son to the places where he grew up. It was Selema's first trip to his father's homeland. A native of New York, Masekela travelled the world in his youth with his father, South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela. Masekela's own band, Alekesam, shares the name of his first film which chronicles his relationship with his father and their connection through music, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2012. Alekesam's music has been featured on Entourage and House of Lies, with their newest single, "All Is Forgiven", featured on the season four premiere of the Showtime hit. Masekela has hosted live events, including YouTube's Brandcast in New York and Paris, YouTube Live on Stage from the Kennedy Center and Google's Zeitgeist. In February 2014, Masekela made his Olympic broadcasting debut from the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, reporting features for NBC's nationally syndicated Olympic Zone. He joined the Emmy-award-winning investigative series VICE on HBO as a correspondent and executive producer in 2015. That year, he also appeared in the remake of the cult classic Point Break. From April 2016, Masekela appeared as the host and executive producer of VICELAND’s docu-series, VICE World of Sports. The series took viewers all over the world to explore each location's people, politics and culture through sports. The series premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 22. Masekela is also involved in the production company UX Entertainment. Based in Los Angeles, UXE specializes in film, commercials, music videos and animation work. Masekela has a clothing company, Art of Craft, which donates a percentage of every sale to charity

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I’m originally from a suburban town in Connecticut. Growing up, I was not outdoorsy. I didn’t know anyone who traveled regularly. I didn’t have a role model who was exploring the world. But throughout school, I had a curiosity about the world that would not go away. I wanted to travel and explore, meet people from other countries who had a different life experience than mine.

I picked up my first camera at 15 and learned how to process film. Photography was a creative outlet for me, and gave me a way to document things as I saw them. In college, my love for photography faded into the background while I discovered my passion for the outdoors and environmental science. When I was 19, I went on my first wilderness expedition. It was one of the more challenging things I’d ever done. It changed my life and I’ve been hungry for more ever since

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  In 2013, Ruben Rojas traded in his suit for a paint brush and began transforming blank walls into unique, empowering messages that today are uplifting communities and challenging the public to create new dialogues. As an artist, muralist and activist, Ruben’s mission is to ignite creativity and inspire others to see the world through the lens of love.

         By using the urban landscape as his canvas, Ruben encourages communities to change for the better through optimism and collaboration. These once vacant walls are now vibrant reminders that inspire those who see them to dream big, feel beautiful, live in possibility, and to love. Ruben’s murals can be seen in cities across the country and around the world from Paris to New York and Florida to Mississippi.

         Ruben’s portfolio of work extends beyond murals. He is a TED speaker, helping spread the message of art creating impact, a product designer and also a corporate consultant.

         Ruben works with companies to help businesses give back, enhance workspaces and raise awareness on important issues. Past campaigns include clients such as Toms, Reebok, American Express, & GT’s Kombucha. Ruben is also co-founder of Beautify Earth, a nonprofit dedicated to putting an end to blighted walls and fixtures all over the world by empowering artists, encouraging social responsibility, and instilling community pride.

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   Celebrity fitness model, Lauren Abraham, is a nationally recognized TV host & live event MC specializing in travel, health, fitness, red carpet events, and action sports. She has over 10 years of ongoing hosting experience with networks such as ESPN, FSN, NBC, and the like. As one of the most influential fitness personalities in the industry, she has been signed as the video creator and host for all Amway fitness video content for the next 5 years globally, as well being the leading spokesperson for MuscleTech, STRONG by Zumba. Recently voted into the top 10 physiques in the fitness industry, she graced page 45 of last year’s ESPN magazine, “The Body Issue.” Lauren is continuously published worldwide, and is seen monthly gracing the pages of fitness, sport, and fashion magazines. She has over 60 magazine publications worldwide.

 For the year of 2014, Lauren was the face of 7-11 TV across the country, and she currently hosts two 30-minute fitness infomercial “The Rock Gym” airing in 23 different countries and Ab Crunch in all of South and Central America. Because of her extensive directing & hosting knowledge form years as a host, she has recently launched her own video production company, and is now Executive Producer/Director/ and partner in one of the largest fitness apps launching in 2015 out of Canada, called Fit Plan App.

           Lauren is certified with the Yoga Alliance is a level 5 stand up paddle boarder, certified with the Academy of Surf Instructors. She continues to be a world-renowned professional athlete, both in her earlier years as a competitive snowboarder and now as a sponsored stand up paddle surfer. Lauren graced the pages of both SUP the Mag and Fitness Gurls Magazine’s summer swimsuit editions this past year and will do so again this year.

Lauren launched her own performing arts company, “LAUREN ABRAHAM ENTERTAINMENT LIVE” in 2005, specializing in the cirque & dance arts and is currently launching her new swimwear and jewelry line, “THE LAUREN ABRAHAM COLLECTIONS.”   As an expert specializing bikini body maintenance, anti-aging, yoga, and outdoor training, Lauren is launching her first book with her business partner, fitness photographer, Robert Reiff. “California Dream Body, The Ultimate Outdoor training guide by Lauren Abraham” Together they have created the highest level of visual inspiration and content, supplying her ever growing & loyal fan base an ongoing collection of useful knowledge.

 Lauren also hosts her annual surf, sup, and yoga retreats in Playa Negra, Costa Rica called the “LAUREN ABRAHAM LIFESTYLE EXPERIENCE”

 In her earlier years as a competitive snowboarder she injured herself critically and endured 10 major surgeries that confined her to a wheel chair for a 2-year period. Not allowing her chronic arthritis and lifelong ankle pain to slow her down, Lauren has overcome her life altering injuries through her dedication to health and keeping her mind, body, and spirit in top shape. She has also overcome a drug addiction during her earlier years, and is a survivor of domestic violence.

Lauren is a co-founder of “THE SPIRITUALLY FIT: MAKING MOVEMENT MATTER” which teaches those new to recovery that creating a physical wellbeing, healthy habits, and spiritual connections to mother nature are key ingredients to a sustainable recovery. She has also spoken for the “Just Keep Living” foundation for the LA High Schools after school sports programs encouraging kids to apply themselves, live to their full potential and use sports over drugs for a good life and promising future. Lauren is creator of “THE LOVE LIFE” program and hopes her membership site will be a one stop shop for women of all walks of life to find the answers and inspiration to turn their own dreams into their reality.

 With her undeniable love for life and endless drive, it is clear why Lauren Abraham is a leading star in social media hundreds of thousands of followers. She is a true influencer with a fast & significant growing fan base for lifestyle brands that support and believe in her as a leading spokesperson and athlete. Lauren is a natural born leader, inspiring people to reach their goals and dreams by living a life full of enthusiasm, joy, courage, and most of all… passion.

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Ben Higgins is best known from season 20 of ABC’s hit series, “The Bachelor,” where he opened himself up to millions of viewers, giving them the chance to truly get to know him. The opportunity ultimately led to an enhanced platform that he now uses to share what he is most passionate about with others – his faith, his hope for humanity and his love of sports.

Born and raised in Winona Lake, IN, Ben currently resides in Denver, CO, where he moved after graduating from Indiana University in 2012. Since “The Bachelor,” Ben has been keeping up with a number of projects with the help of some of his closest friends.

Most recently, Ben co-founded Generous International, a for purpose company dedicated to contributing profits to social issues around the world, starting with a cup of coffee. With a vision to change the way society thinks of consumer products, all Generous merchandise is designed specifically to create and multiply good in the world. Whether creating jobs, feeding children or improving education, it begins with giving back in order to build a world that we all want to live in.

In 2017 Ben created a lifestyle blog, The Mahogany Workplace, where people are free to openly and honestly discuss all things life, love and everything in between. From style to travel to world views, Ben and his team of refreshing contributors cover it all, with the one common thread being complete transparency about how life can truly be – a series of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, triumph and pain.

Ben stays connected with his loyal Bachelor following with his iHeartMedia podcast, “Almost Famous,” which he co-hosts with his friend and former Bachelor contestant, Ashley Iaconetti. It’s the perfect destination for fans to get an inside perspective on the popular franchise as they break down the current Bachelor season in addition to discussing pop culture, offering relationship advice and allowing listeners to keep up with their personal lives.

In 2018 Ben partnered with nationally recognized chef Daniel Asher and the team at Culinary Creative Group to open his first restaurant venture Ash ‘Kara in Denver, Co. Ash ‘Kara is a globally inspired restaurant with influences from Israel, the Middle East, and Mesopotamia. Ash ‘Kara which is Hebrew street slang for “totally!” or “right on!” explores the continuous evolution of Israeli cuisine with ingredients and flavors from across Europe and North Africa including Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Spain into a menu of shareable items from Ash ‘Kara’s wood-fired oven.

Of all Ben’s ventures, his longest-running connection has been with Humanity and Hope United, where he holds a seat on the board. Established by one of his best friends and Mahogany Workplace contributor, Riley Fuller, Humanity & Hope United is a non-profit organization working to assist underserved villages in remote parts of Honduras. They partner with the people of each community to achieve sustainable change, focusing on the needs of individuals rather than a single issue or approach.

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This is a solo cast episode where Founder of Travel With Meaning, Mike Schibel shares about his yearly family summer reunion at their cabin in Northern Minnesota. Mike gets real and personal with his experience and why this year’s trip was so different than any other before. We’ll also hear some of Mike’s thoughts and wisdom around making choices while being on the open road and the mindset of a traveler. As Season One of the TWM Podcast comes to a close Mike reflects back and reveals about the road ahead for Season Two with a new partner creating inspiration for future episodes. All this and so much more on this episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast.

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Jesse Billauer (born February 24, 1979) is a well-known surfer from Pacific Palisades, California.

Billauer suffered an accident at the age of 17 on March 25, 1996, hitting his head on a shallow sandbar after being knocked off his surfboard by a wave. The force broke his neck, severing his spinal cord at the C6 level and instantly rendered him a quadriplegic.

Billauer was told by doctors that he would never surf again. However, Billauer eventually did return to surfing, adapting his surfing technique and equipment to the situation of his current condition. He has become a role model guide to many other surfers, both professional and amateur, on how to live life to the fullest, despite a life-changing injury. Through these efforts, Jesse has gained sponsorships from companies including Hurley, Channel Islands Surfboards (who developed a "Jesse Billauer" model), LoFric, Wavejet and Shoe City.

After graduating from Malibu High School, Billauer eventually enrolled at San Diego State University, with an emphasis in Communications. He graduated in 2002. He is also a motivational speaker, and is Executive Director of the non profit foundation he founded, "Life Rolls On." Through this foundation, Jesse is taking a leading role in awareness and activism for spinal cord injury related quality of life programs.

The 2003 Docs-Film Step Into Liquid featured his story and his friendship with Rob Machado Billauer was also featured on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Dateline NBC, Good Morning America, While You Were Out, E! True American Story and more. In 2004 he won the 10News (San Diego) Leadership Award for his commitment to Life Rolls On Foundation. His life story is featured in the book Bouncing Forward: Transforming Bad Breaks into Breakthroughs.

In 2005 Billauer became the first quadriplegic surfer to surf the dangerous waves of Cloudbreakin Fiji. He now surfs utilizing a power-assisted surfboard created by Wavejet.

The inaugural "Jesse's Story on Tour" speaking tour began in April 2006. This Tour has traversed the country and Jesse has delivered his message of Overcoming Adversity to over 100,000 people.

In December 2006 Billauer broke his femur while surfing large waves on the North Shore of Oahu (Hawaii). This injury led to the development of improved equipment for disabled surfers. He has recovered and is back in the water surfing again.

In September 2013 he took over as Executive Director and CEO of Life Rolls On Foundation.

On December 6, 2013 Billauer became engaged to his longtime girlfriend Samanta Pearson and on October 26, 2014 he married her at the historical Adamson House in Malibu. They Live in Los Angeles with two beautiful twin boys.

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“I’m a US based travel expert and spend my time teaching people how to travel well, smart and often. I’m passionate about good travel and helping people save time & money. I often say that travel is my Ph.D in life because it has taught me so much about myself, other people and the world. In turn, travel is good for the world. I believe that travel has never been easier and that everyone can achieve their travel dreams. Happy Travels!” - Angel Castellanos His AngelstravelLounge.com website and all Travel Ambassador social media are like cool travel lounges that bring you expert travel advice on how to travel better, smarter, longer and cheaper. Traveling internationally 12-15 weeks each year, Angel draws on his experiences to teach “Smart Travel” and equip travelers with skills to make their trips easier and more enjoyable and less stressful. His love of travel has driven him to give hundreds of motivational and inspiration travel talks throughout the country that are filled with actionable practical travel tips. Angel is a multi-media travel personality that has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, NY Times Travel Show, Fox News, CBS, ABC, Frommer’s Radio, Univision, USA Today, Travel & Adventure Show. Angel is a lifelong traveler. His first international trip was at an early age with his parents on a journey that lasted 3 months through the American Southwest, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Moved by his passion for art, music, history and architecture, Angel studied abroad in Europe in college. He has returned to Europe every year since. He has also visited South America, Africa and spent nine weeks traveling throughout Japan and South East Asia. His favorite journeys include traveling from Beijing to London overland via the Trans-Siberian, a horse trek in Mongolia, a Camel trek through the Sahara desert and sailing down the Nile River in Egypt. He is a consummate “light” packer, enjoys making new friends on the road and remains focused on achieving his travel dreams. As a Brand Ambassador Angel has enjoyed working with such top brands as Eagle Creek, ExOfficio, Delsey Luggage, Brics, Allianz Travel Insurance and various hotel chains around the world. Angel is a proud brand Ambassador for Kind Traveler (the first socially conscious hotel booking site).

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Richard Bangs is co-founder and Chief Adventure Officer of http://www.Steller.co

Richard Bangs has been a pioneer in travel, digital media, e-commerce, and other frontiers.

In the early 90s Richard produced the first internet travel site http://www.mtsobek.com, the first travel CD ROM (The Adventure Disc), and the first virtual expeditions http://www.terra-quest.com.

He was founder and editor-in-chief of Mungo Park, a pioneering Microsoft travel publishing effort. He also founded www.terra-quest.com. He was part of the founding executive team of Expedia.com (www.expedia.com), and served as its Editor-at-Large. He was creator and publisher of Expedia Travels Magazine (published in partnership with Ziff-Davis), and executive producer of Expedia Radio, and founder and executive director of Expedia Cafes. He also served as president of Outward Bound; Founded Well-Traveled.com for Slate, and was founding editor and executive producer of Great Escapes, another Microsoft Travel initiative (www.greatescapes.msnbc.com). He also ran and founded First and Best for MSN, and founded Sobek Expeditions, which in the early 1990s merged with Mountain Travel to become Mountain Travel Sobek (www.mtsobek.com).

Richard Bangs has oft been called the father of modern adventure travel, and the pioneer in travel that makes a difference, travel with a purpose. He has spent 30 years as an explorer and communicator, and along the way led first descents of 35 rivers around the globe, including the Yangtze in China and the Zambezi in Southern Africa.

He recently co-directed the IMAX Film, Mystery of the Nile, and co-authored the Putnam book of the same name. His recent book, The Lost River: A Memoir of Life, Death and the Transformation of Wild Water, won the National Outdoor Book Award in the literature category, and the Lowell Thomas Award for best book.

Richard has published more than 1000 magazine articles, 19 books, produced a score

of documentaries and several CD-ROMs; and has lectured at the

Smithsonian, the National Geographic Society, the Explorers Club and many other notable venues. He writes a semi-regular feature with the NYTimes. Richard served as executive producer of Richard Bangs Adventures on Yahoo.

He executive produced and hosted the Emmy-winning PBS series, Richard Bangs’ Adventures with Purpose (www.adventureswithpurpose.tv), and his companion book, Adventures with Purpose, won the 2007 best book award from NATJA. His latest books are Quest for the Sublime (2008), and Quest for the Kashah (2009).

Richard won the Mark Dubois lifetime achievement conservation award in 2007.

Richard won the CINE Golden Eagle Award in 2008 for the special, Quest for Kaitiakitanga, and six Tele Awards for Quest for the Nile, Quest for the Sublime, and Quest for the Kasbah. Quest for Kaitiakitanga was nominated for an Environmental Media Award (“The Green Oscars”) for best documentary, and won the annual Platinum Award from HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International). Richard’s film Quest for the Viking Spirit won the 2009 Gold Lowell Thomas award for best documentary; and the same award for 2010 for the India show. Also, the series won two Emmys in 2010 in the History/Culture categories.

In 2011 Richard won the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Gold Award for Hong Kong: Quest for the Dragon—2011; the 2011 CINE Golden Eagle Award for Greece: Quest for the Gods; and two Telly Awards for Hong Kong: Quest for the Dragon.

Richard’s show Quest for Harmony won the Gold in the Destination Marketing Category of the 2012 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, as well as two Bronze Telly Awards, and the 2012 Lowell Thomas Award. His special, Richard Bangs’s South America: Quest for Wonder, won two Telly Awards for 2013; and the Cine Golden Eagle for 2013.

Richard Bangs’ Quests for PBS

He is co-founder of www.steller.co, now the world’s largest travel storytelling platform and app.

www.richardbangs.com

www.adventureswithpurpose.tv

www.mtsobek.com

www.whitenilemedia.net

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Destined to shine, her bright personality, experience, and sunny disposition led Angela to break boundaries in the world of sports and media as the first Asian-American female sportscaster to appear on ESPN, Yahoo! Sports, Tennis Channel, Fox Sports and NBC to name a few. During the time Angela hosted the “YAHOO! SPORTS MINUTE”, it became the longest running and #1 daily sports show online, won a Webby Award, and garnered over 600 million streams. Angela also co-hosted Season 4 of NBC’s “AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR”. She is currently host of “FOREIGN IN THE U.S.A.” travel show that can be seen nationally and in-flight on Delta Airlines.

As a world traveler, the award-winning journalist’s passion for storytelling and love for the oceans led to the creation of her first independent feature documentary, “PLASTIC PARADISE: THE GREAT PACIFIC GARBAGE PATCH”. Angela directed & executive produced the film which has received critical praise and won 13 awards worldwide and been in over 40 film festivals, with supporters such as former VP Al Gore, Bette Midler, Jackson Browne, Forest Whitaker sharing about it on social media. The film helped start a #plasticparadise social media movement of thousands worldwide taking the pledge to say no to single-use plastics. The film has wide distribution and can currently be seen on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Itunes, Vudu, Pivot TV (US), LA7 (Italy), SBS2 (Australia), Taiwan & Sweden. For more info: www.plasticparadisemovie.com

Angela has appeared in USA Today, Tedx, Fox Business, NYtimes, Maxim, Bleacher Report, Salon.com, Answers.com, Forbes, Audrey Magazine, Men’s Fitness, The UK Sunday Times, Wall Street Journal, the cover of Experience Life Magazine and more.

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David has been working at the edge of sustainability and the forefront of regenerative architecture for over 35 years. As a systems thinker, he engages a variety of fields through design and believes in expanding the conceptual limits of architecture.

Throughout his career, David has connected the art of building with responsible stewardship of the Earth. A LEED accredited professional, he serves on the board of Heal The Bay and is a member of the City of Santa Monica’s Task Force on the Environment. David taught sustainable design and mentored students at his alma mater, SCI-Arc, as well as Art Center College of Design and USC, and currently serves on the Academic Advisory Committee for UCLA’s Extension Program.

A lifelong passion for surfing has made David keenly active in issues regarding water quality and access. He and his wife Laura founded Skysource to develop and distribute atmospheric water generation technology, and their efforts culminated in winning the Water Abundance XPRIZE. Since then, they have focused on making communities more resilient through better design, planning, and products. Since the Woolsey Fire devastated their community, David is committed to helping friends and neighbors rebuild their homes and lives.

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Welcome to the first official solocast of the Travel With Meaning podcast. I’ve been enjoying bringing you conversations with interesting guests sharing travel stories and don’t worry we have three more interviews coming up with David Hertz, Angela Sun and Richard Bangs to close out season one. As I promised in the intro episode I was going to share some of my travels throughout the year and how travel has always shown up for me when I needed it. Something else I shared in the intro episode was I lost my job the end of January and I was thinking travel was going to play a big part of my life for the next few months. This episode is some of my thoughts, experiences and meaningful moments from travels my travels over the first six months of 2019. I found doing the interviews so much easier. Which means I’m going to have to lean into being even more vulnerable on my next solocast. Hope you enjoy…see you on the open road!
Mike

Angela Sun

David Hertz

Richard Bangs

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Angelique Velez, growing up in New York City dreaming of seeing the world. The former model and professional poker player life of travel began to unfold in front of her. It was traveling the world playing poker where she crafted the concept of Remarkable Places. Creating a visual vision board through her Instagram account. founder of Remarkable Places. With 55 countries visited to date, Angelique is constantly seeking out the most unique and unknown locations in the world. Remarkable Places is now a full fledge independent travel agency and experience company that brings her audience with her on her remarkable travels. For more information visit remarkableplaces.net

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Never one to sit still, Kinga has tested herself for the past 19 years by traveling the globe...scuba diving, free diving, spear fishing, surfing, jumping out of airplanes, spelunking and swimming with sharks as a writer, producer and on camera journalist for networks such as CBS, NBC, ABC, USA, AMC, Travel Channel, Fox Sports, Universal Sports, Food Network, Current TV, Syfy, EPIX and National Geographic.

Kinga was born in Warsaw, Poland into a family of explorers and adventurers. Her dad, a geologist, trekked repeatedly across Europe and her mom, trained in botany, can give the Latin name of every plant. Expeditions are in her genes. Her folks believed in regular road trips, camping, cultural exploration, photography and natural sciences. She didn't stand a chance of becoming anything other than the world wandering, adventurous, story telling soul she grew up to be.

She has traveled the world reporting on intense subjects like police corruption in Mexico, gangs in LA, women in the sex trade, humanitarian and environmental causes, world conflict and natural disasters. On the flip side she has explored the night life, festivals and exotic eats of the world's most vibrant cities.

Kinga was one of the original on air journalists to launch Al Gore’s Emmy Award winning Current TV, where she covered everything from travel, car culture and entertainment to current issues and hard hitting vanguard journalism stories that put her in the line of fire…sometimes literally.

As an on air producer for Syfy’s Legend Quest, a Da-Vinci-Code-meets-Indiana-Jones style adventure show traversing the globe in search of mysterious artifacts, Kinga traveled to 13 countries in two months exploring some of the world's most exotic destinations. The team investigated sunken churches in Ethiopia, trekked the Andes in Peru, went spelunking in the Philippines, dived Mexican cenotes, rode camels through the desert in Jordan, located one of the oldest known churches in a maximum security prison in Israel and braved rough seas to access remote islands off Scotland's west coast.

For National Geographic Kinga co-hosted America’s Lost Treasures, traveling across the United States in search of hidden links to America’s past, authenticating artifacts and telling the stories that connect our past to our present. The items from the show went on display at the National Geographic Museum in Washington DC. Kinga's background includes a minor in anthropology and a fascination with history.

Kinga has done several projects for Travel Channel including The Wild Side with Kinga Philipps, which had her kite surfing, bungee jumping, free diving and mountain biking across the US; the network's yearly special The Trip, where Travel Channel talent team up to show off exciting destinations; Travel Hacks, an animated multi part series written and hosted by Kinga and based on her more off beat and comical adventure travel moments and the award winning THE REAL, a comprehensive locals perspective of exotic destinations...repeatedly nominated and winning Tellys, Webbys and the Cynopsis Model D...among others. THE REAL is currently one of Travel Channel's premier shows on Facebook Watch.

Her latest project with Travel Channel is the new series Off the Map, which will go into production in June 2019 and air in late fall. Kinga, along with co-host JJ Kelley, will travel the world investigating unsolved mysteries that took place in some of the planet’s most harrowing and remote locations.

Currently, Kinga is on the road working on the six episode documentary series, Enslaved. As a journalist and scuba diver she is part of the team diving shipwrecks all over the world to tell the profound stories of the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved will premiere on EPIX in early 2020. The series is being hosted by Samuel L. Jackson.

Kinga is also the regular travel expert for Beond TV, a morning program on KDOC LA, ROKU and online that is viewed by almost 6 million viewers weekly.

As a writer, she has two columns for Real Clear Life and Inside Hook: Off the Beaten Path, a modern nomads guide to a world less traveled that explores some of the last bastions of wilderness this planet has to offer; and the acclaimed Real Life Laura Croft series that highlights inspiring and accomplished women. She is also a regular contributor to Adventure Journal and her travel expertise has appeared in a variety of publications including Travel + Leisure, Martha Stewart Weddings and Readers Digest.

Kinga is a member of the prestigious Explorers Club. She joins the likes of Elon Musk, James Cameron, Neil Armstrong, Robert Ballard, Silvia Earle, David Attenborough and many others in this extraordinary family of explorers, who over the past 114 years, have dedicated themselves to the advancement of field research, scientific exploration, resource conservation and the ideal that it is vital to preserve the instinct to explore.

In her free time, Kinga explores a singular fascination with the ocean, free diving (see below), scuba diving (she is advanced open water, nitrox and dry suit certified), surfing, spearfishing to harvest her own food, exotic travel and sharks (those are her two friends from Guadalupe Island, MX swimming up top)... followed just slightly by a love of solo adventure travel, charity work, exotic foods and action sports. She lives in Malibu, CA to be close to the beach at all times.

Kinga is a board member of the nonprofit environmental group, Shark Allies, dedicated to changing the image of sharks and conserving our oceans. She gives yearly shark talks aboard the HORIZON, a live aboard eco tour that visits white sharks in their native habitat off the coast of Mexico. She is also a board member of Now Art LA, a non profit dedicated to curating and supporting public art and an ambassador for Waves for Water, on org committed to providing clean water to those in need.

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Erin Fish is Co-Founder of Wanderwell, a social enterprise travel insurance agency committed to guiding travelers towards comprehensive, yet cost-effective plans, giving you peace of mind on your adventures. Wanderwell is a certified B Corp dedicated to offsetting the environmental impacts of travel by giving 10% of annual revenue to established non-profit members of 1% for the Planet, an organization focused on social impact and environmental stewardship; as well as other non-profits that promote sustainable travel. You go, we give...

Erin and his family live in Portland, Oregon and a graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a BA in Environmental Studies. He has 13+ years of insurance industry experience as an agent/broker for health insurance, employee benefits, travel insurance, and international health insurance. In previous decades, he was a middle school and high school teacher. As an active participant in local and national B Corp and 1% for the Planet committees, Erin is a strong advocate for using business as a driving force for making a positive social and environmental impact.

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David Osokow, affectionately known as Dave O to celebrities, athletes, and executives around the world is a global serial entrepreneur and former fixture in the Hollywood nightlife scene. He’s the co-founder of the stylish and affordable sunglass brand Priverevaux, VP of Client Services for Vanderhall and Super 73.
The Southern California native is a motorcycle enthusiast and die-hard Philadelphia sports fan. One of Dave’s greatest moments was sitting next to a Philadelphia sports icon as his beloved Eagles won the Superbowl. Dave share’s that special moment and his other unique travel adventures on this episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast.

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Laura Grier has been called the Indiana Jones of Adventure Travel Photography and is a recent addition to the Discovery Channel UK’s “20 Richest People in the World List”, people who are rich in life experiences that is. Living abroad from a young age, it is no surprise that Laura turned her life of travel, adventure, and exploration into a profession. As a photojournalist for the past 18 years, Laura has photographed on all 7 continents and has made a life out of exploring the world, capturing, and writing about her experiences.

The most satisfying work that Laura has done in her career has been through her work with Novica, in Association with National Geographic, a global catalog that represents artisans from around the world who are practicing “Vanishing Arts”. Through her work with Novica over the past 8 years, Laura has traveled numerous times to Peru and has quickly fallen in love with the culture and people. Passionate about mentoring, women’s education, photography and travel, Laura leads travel workshops, expeditions, and is an ambassador for sustainable travel brands like Lokal and Impact Travel Alliance.

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Sure, Billy Galewood could impress you all day with many of his fun talents: juggling, magic, balloon animals, fire breathing… even balancing large objects on his face. But, that’s just the tip of the iceberg for this seasoned performer. Billy has evolved from his early days as a clown into a multi-talented comedian, musician, and storyteller whose artistic toolbox has led him on a magical ride around the world.

As a performer, Billy has graced the stage of such storied venues as The Hollywood Bowl, Red Rocks Amphitheater, as well as countless comedy clubs across the country. Billy has performed internationally, touring Europe, Asia, Canada, and Australia.

He has collaborated with Justin Willman, Jason Mraz, Craig Robinson, Bob Schneider, Pigeon John, and Funny or Die.

As a musician, he co-wrote on GRAMMY winner Jason Mraz’s platinum debut album “Waiting for My Rocket to Come” and sophomore release “Mr. A-Z.” Billy also appeared in Jason’s 2018 documentary “Have it All,” showing in 600 theaters across the country.

His own songs have been featured in multiple film, television, and commercial projects.

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Jessica Blotter is CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler. The moment she discovered that the love of travel can’t be separated from the state of the world after witnessing poverty on a trip to Belize in 2012, she wondered how the $7-trillion travel industry could be harnessed to benefit local communities, the environment, and animals. This experience led her and her co-founder to launch KindTraveler.com, a social enterprise that’s the first socially-conscious Give + Get hotel booking and education platform empowering travelers to become a force for good. Since launching Kind Traveler, Blotter has been featured in more than 300 news and blog outlets including the New York Times, Afar, Conde Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure. Blotter has delivered a TEDx salon talk ‘The Future of Travel: Purpose is King,’ was a recipient of the 2017 WITTI (Women in Travel & Tourism International) Award by Mandala Research as a Rising Star in Travel & Tourism presented by Skift, received the ‘Best Ethical Travel Agency of 2018’ Award by ELUXE Magazine, and is a member of the Forbes Los Angeles Business Council.

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A multi-Grammy-nominated recording artist, Redfoo is creator and one-half of electro-pop dance duo LMFAO. The group is best known for their chart-topping single “Party Rock Anthem” and other popular hits “I’m in Miami Bitch”, “Sexy and I Know It”, "Sorry for Party Rocking" and "Shots, Shots, Shots." As a hit songwriter and recent solo artist, Redfoo is known for his international hits "Let's Get Ridiculous", “New Thang” and “Juicy Wiggle.” A Vegan and lover of life, the youngest son of Motown founder Berry Gordy, Jr. is currently obsessed with, Getting an ATP Point in Tennis, Coding games in JavaScript, and laughing with his girlfriend Jasmine, their 3 dogs, and 2 turkeys.

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Growing up Slater Trout's life was based around the water. At the age of 11, Slater chose to forge his own path through the young and fresh sport of Stand Up Paddling. By doing so he found himself competing and succeeding against athletes mostly double his age. While traveling for SUP Races / Surf competitions around the world, he developed his passion for photography. As his photography portfolio is growing, he hopes that each of his photos will inspire and invite you to experience the world through his eyes. Whether Slater is competing for a Stand Up Paddling World Title or documenting his life through photography, he is always excited for the next journey.

Social

IG: https://www.instagram.com/slatertrout/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/slatertrout?lang=en

Website: http://slatertrout.com

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As the first African-American woman to host her own science television series, Danni is deeply passionate about inspiring the next generation to connect and understand the natural world. She has spent the last 10 years finding creative ways to convert her passion for the ocean and science into exciting, high-profile ways. Miami native with Jamaican roots, Danni Washington is deeply passionate about exposing the next generation to the wonders of the ocean and engaging science communications. She dreamed of studying the oceans since she was six years old. In 2008, Danni graduated from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science with a B.Sc. in Marine Science/Biology. At age 21, she co-founded along with her mom, Michelle Swaby-Smith the Big Blue & You - A 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating youth about marine conservation through the arts and media. "Ocean Conservation through Artistic Inspiration". She also served for four years as a naturalist at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center where she helped educate thousands of South Florida children about local marine ecosystems.

For three years, Danni served as an on-camera personality and science filmmaker with Untamed Science which created nearly 200 K-12 Science Educational Videos for Pearson textbooks that are currently in classrooms across the USA), Ocean GEMS (a multimedia series and outreach program connecting teens to marine scientists mentors and role models inspiring them to pursue careers in marine science) and she also co-starred with Jaden Smith in the official educational outreach video for the theatrical film After Earth starring Jaden and his dad, Will Smith. Most recently, Danni is working as the host of a brand new STEM educational TV Series which features the latest advancements in bio-inspired technology and design called XPLORATION NATURE KNOWS BEST which is syndicated on FOX and available on HULU, Amazon Prime, Roku and Yahoo View.

Danni was also featured as a commentator in Discovery’s original series, STRANGE EVIDENCE on the Science Channel. She co-created and produced a new initiative called Sea Youth Rise Up which is a collaborative effort to elevate the role of youth leadership in ocean conservation policy and advocacy on World Oceans Day. In 2017, Danni was selected as one of the 10 young innovators who was profiled in CA Technologies #STEM10 initiative featured on Amy Poehlers . Most recently, Danni served as spokesperson of the nation’s largest celebration of STEM at the USA Science & Engineering Festival in Washington D.C.

Danni has a deep appreciation for the arts and seeks any creative outlet to express herself including dance, film and music. She is an avid scuba diver, passionate curly girl, stand-up paddle boarding enthusiast, MOCHA MERMAID and overall lover of the natural world, she is ALWAYS ready for an ADVENTURE.

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Phil Keoghan has been telling stories in front of a television camera for 30 years. He has worked in over 130 countries as an actor, author, speaker, television host, producer, director and cameraman on thousands of program episodes. Phil is currently Host and an Executive Producer of The Amazing Race, now in its 32nd season; Host of National Geographic’s Explorer and Host of an inspirational podcast called, Buckit with Phil Keoghan. His work has earned him numerous awards including; ten prime-time Emmy Awards as a producer and host of the hit CBS series The Amazing Race; Best Director Award, at the American Documentary Film Festival; the 2018 Sports Documentarian Award from the International Sports Hall of Fame: a World Class New Zealand Award; The 2011 Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life award for services to MS; a 2012 Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award and the Endurance Live, Celebrity Athlete of the Year 2013. Keoghan was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2014 for his services to television and tourism.

Social

IG https://www.instagram.com/philiminator/

Twitter https://twitter.com/PhilKeoghan

Podcast https://philkeoghan.com/buckit/

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Travel stories that have impacted the lives and careers of artists, entertainers, athletes, entrepreneurs, CEO’s and travel experts. Hosted by Mike Schibel, Founder of Travel With Meaning.

Travel With Meaning: Recent Episodes

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