Speaking of Travel® With Marilyn Ball
Founded in 2013, Speaking of Travel is a media platform dedicated to meaningful, responsible travel storytelling. Through conversations with global explorers, conservation leaders, cultural visionaries, world-changers, musicians, historians, conservationists, industry leaders, and everyday adventurers, we explore how travel connects people, preserves culture, and protects the planet. After a decade of global change, including a pandemic and climate-driven disruptions, Speaking of Travel continues to lead the conversation on travel as a force for good.
Episodes
Scenic Travel Moments And The Joy Of Discovery
There’s a new idea taking shape around the way we experience places and it’s called Scenic Travel Moments.Justin Belleme, Publisher and Partnerships Manager at RomanticAsheville.com, joins Speaking of Travel to talk about where the idea came from and why he believes there is an opportunity to create something different for travelers.Scenic Travel Moments begins in Western North Carolina with extra
Michael Yang Discovers New Beginnings On The Open Road
You got what you wanted. Now what?It seems like we spend so much of our lives moving toward what’s next, always looking ahead to where we’re going and what we’re supposed to accomplish along the way. We work toward the goal, reach the milestone, check the box, and then one day, sometimes, we actually get there.And what happens then?For Michael Yang, that question opened the door to a whole new cha
What The World’s Greatest Landmarks Are Hiding With Ronan O’Connell
There are fascinating stories all around us and many are in places we least expect to find them.On this episode of Speaking of Travel, I’m joined by award-winning travel journalist and National Geographic contributor Ronan O’Connell, author of Hidden in Plain Sight. Ronan takes us beyond the postcard view to uncover the forgotten stories, mysteries, history, and human experiences hidden within som
Finding Her Way Back To Life With Abigail Carter
Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, we continue to remember the lives that were lost and the lives forever changed by that day.And that's why I’m revisiting a very special conversation with Abigail Carter, a gifted writer and artist whose husband was killed in the 9/11 tragedy.For years, grief became part of the landscape of Abigail’s life. But eventually, something inside her began t
How Sarah Aviram Turned One Bold Idea Into A Year Around the World
Sometimes the life we imagine for ourselves begins with something very simple, like taking that first step.Sarah Aviram didn't stumble into a year of travel. She created it. She made the bold decision to leave behind the familiar and designed a plan to travel through 12 countries in 12 months while continuing to work remotely. And she trusted herself enough to make it happen.In this episode o
Experience Italy Through The Eyes Of Those Who Call It Home 🇮🇹
Some places capture your imagination. Italy captures your heart. If you've ever dreamed of experiencing Italy beyond the guidebooks, this is the journey you've been waiting for.Join Becky and Marcello Simone of Viaggi Italiani, together with Anne Robichaud, your expert guide to the hidden treasures of Umbria, on an unforgettable 10-day Fall 2026 Small Group Art & Cultural Tour throug
It's Never Too Late To Write Your Next Chapter With Michael Cowan
Michael Cowan has lived many lives.He's been an attorney, educator, businessman, musician, songwriter, and now, an author. His debut novel, John B. Peoples, is proof that some of life's most meaningful adventures begin long after we think we've settled into who we are.In this episode of Speaking of Travel, Michael shares what inspired him to finally write the novel that had been qui
Travel with Purpose: A Conversation With Jared Sternberg Of Gondwana Ecotours
Travel has a way of changing how we see the world. And perhaps that’s where the possibility of changing it begins.On this episode of Speaking of Travel, join Jared Sternberg, founder and CEO of Gondwana Ecotours, for a thoughtful conversation about what it really means to travel with purpose. Jared shares how an unexpected journey took him from law school and backpacking adventures to building an
Singer-Songwriter Katie Cole From The World Stage To The Soul
Some conversations feel like catching up with an old friend. And that's exactly what it was like welcoming Katie Cole back to Speaking of Travel. Katie is not only a remarkable singer-songwriter, she's one of the kindest, most genuine people you'll ever meet. From her years touring with the Smashing Pumpkins to performing the iconic music of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit befo
The Journey Home To Yourself With Anthony Dyer
The world teaches us how to move forward, but it rarely teaches us how to heal. But healing may be one of the most courageous adventures we ever undertake.On this deeply human episode of Speaking of Travel, meet Anthony Dyer, whose extraordinary journey from military service to healing is a powerful reminder that our most important journeys are often the ones no one else can see.Originally from Sy
A Seat At The Table And A Window To The World With Cottage Cooking
What happens when a love of food becomes a passport to the world? On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we're joined by Liisa Andreassen and John Godts, the husband-and-wife team behind Cottage Cooking, whose adventures have taken them across six continents and more than 40 countries.What began as a creative way to fund their travels has evolved into a meaningful journey centered on food, st
The Maine Windjammer Way: Sailing, Storytelling, and Slowing Down
Some journeys change the way we see the world. On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we're setting sail along the coast of Maine with Justin Schaefer and Jocelyn Schmidt, owners and captains of the historic Schooner J. & E. Riggin.Together they've created an experience where the wind sets the pace and the sea shapes each day. And how the simple moments become the memories that stay
A Journey To St Helena Island And The Transformative Power Of Place With Ryan Enslin
We spend so much of our lives trying to get somewhere, we sometimes forget to simply be where we are.In a world that constantly urges us to move faster, do more, and keep up, this conversation with Ryan Enslin offers a different perspective. A gentler one.As a journalist and photographer from Johannesburg, South Africa, Ryan has learned that some places seem to exist outside the pace of modern lif
The Quiet Magic Of The NC Arboretum With Drake Fowler
The places that stay with us aren’t always the ones that demand our attention. Sometimes, their impact is much quieter.You arrive carrying noise, deadlines, distractions and the weight of everyday life. And then somewhere between the trees, the silence, the air itself, something begins to soften. You remember there is another way to live in the world. More connected. More awake. More human.This ep
Bassoonist Frank Morelli And The Journey Of A Life Well Played
The most memorable conversations often have less to do with accomplishments and more to do with the journey behind them.Internationally acclaimed bassoonist Frank Morelli is both. His story is about far more than music. It’s about what happens when a lifetime of dedication shapes not only an artist, but a human being.There’s something deeply moving about a person who spends a lifetime devoted to m
The Asheville Regional Airport Reflects The Heart Of Western North Carolina
There’s something deeper unfolding at the Asheville Regional Airport and you can feel it the moment you step into this conversation with Angi Daus, VP of Air Service and Corporate Communications.This isn’t surface-level support. It’s a lived commitment to Western North Carolina, shaped through real relationships and a genuine presence in the community that shows up in how they collaborate and how
Bryan Lewis Of Tenon Tours On Going Beyond the Destination
Travel has a way of catching us by surprise. A beautiful view may stop us for a moment, but it’s often the feeling we carry home that stays with us.On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we step into that space where travel stops being about the plan and becomes a way of seeing and living. It becomes a way of loving the world with more courage and intention.Tenon Tours founder Bryan Lewis understa
Indigenous Food, Modern Impact: A Conversation with Chef Nathan Davis
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we move beyond destinations and into something deeply human... food as a living expression of memory, identity, and belonging. Chef Nathan Davis shares his story shaped by the land, where hunting, fishing, and foraging were not choices, but teachings guiding him to understand food as relationship, responsibility, and respect.With formal training from Le Cordo
Connecting Cultures Across The Middle East With Rihab Abouzaki
In a time shaped by rapid change and constant headlines, this conversation invites us to pause, to listen, and to look beyond perception into lived experience.My guest, Rihab Abouzaki, is an advertising strategist and Director of This N That Communications. She works at the intersection of culture, business, and global storytelling. Moving between the United States and the Gulf region, she brings
Italy’s Lost Women Artists Are Being Found And Rewritten Into History
There’s something quietly extraordinary unfolding in Italy, inside museums, churches, and hidden archives where history has long rested in silence.For centuries, luminous works of art created by women were tucked away, overlooked, or forgotten. Not because they lacked brilliance, but because their stories were never fully told. And still, they remained, waiting, holding their place in time.Today,
Travel, Stories, And The Threads That Bring Us Together With Yoon Kim
Sometimes it’s not one big moment that shapes us, but a series of experiences that quietly stay, like traveling far from home at a young age, listening to stories passed down at the kitchen table, beginning to understand that where we come from carries more meaning over time.In this episode, I’m joined by Yoon Kim, a journalist, storyteller, and event producer whose work is grounded in curiosity a
Ketch Secor Of Old Crow Medicine Show Is Pure Soul
Some journeys don’t begin with a plan. Some just begin with a song, a street corner, a moment that simply says go.In this episode of Speaking of Travel, Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show, shares a life shaped by following the music and trusting where it leads. What stays with you isn’t just the story of the road. It's more the way he moves through the world.From busking days to the guidan
Leave No Trace TV Shows Us How To Travel With Purpose
What if the way we travel could actually help restore the planet instead of slowly wearing it down? On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we explore how every choice we make, where we go, how we move, where we stay, and how we show up, creates a lasting impact. Travel today is no longer just about seeing the world. Each of us has a responsibility to care for it and protect it. And we must become
The Spirit Of Travel Never Retires: Love, Resilience, And A Lifetime Of Exploration
Today’s Speaking of Travel episode is a heartfelt reminder that the spirit of travel doesn’t fade, but rather deepens, shifting, growing, and finding new meaning with every chapter. Cary Lowe and his wife Trish share the remarkable story of a life shaped by exploration, where each journey has strengthened their bond and expanded their connection to the world, as beautifully captured in his book On
Discovering Humanity In The Flavors of Madagascar With Emmanuel Laroche
Welcome to the island of Madagascar, a place that feels both distant and deeply connected to the rest of the world. Through the lens of food, culture, and community, guest Emmanuel Laroche invites us to look beyond familiar ingredients and discover the stories, people, and landscapes that shape them. Born in France and now based in New Jersey, he has spent years exploring the world through taste,
Meandering With Meaning Restores Wonder In A Hurried World
In a world that rarely pauses, this episode of Speaking of Travel is an invitation to breathe. To slow down. To remember that wonder still lives just outside our door and within our own hearts.Meet Sue Wasserman, Travel and Tourism Director for Explore Burnsville, NC, a writer, nature photographer, devoted critter sitter, and a self-described general meanderer who knows how to pause for life’s mos
Redemption Beneath The Earth And The Healing of Hidden River Cave
What if the greatest stories on Earth aren’t written in the sky but carved in stone beneath our feet? On this illuminating episode of Speaking of Travel, we shine a light on the extraordinary underground ecosystems that hold the living history of our planet.My guest is David Foster, President and CEO of the American Cave Conservation Association and steward of Hidden River Cave in Kentucky.Once co
Discovering The Italian Way To Wellness Through Community, Cycling, and Connection
Travel has a way of waking us up and inviting us to slow down, breathe more deeply, and reconnect with what truly makes us feel alive. In this episode of Speaking of Travel, we welcome Nancy De Losa, Co-Founder of A’qto Italian Cycling Tours, whose work beautifully blends cycling, culture, community, and mindful travel across Italy.Nancy shares how exploring Italy by bike becomes far more than a p
Where Music, History, And Travel Meet With Cellist Louise Dubin
What if listening deeply could carry us across centuries?In this Speaking of Travel episode, cellist Louise Dubin invites us into a world where travel, music, and historical discovery intertwine, reminding us that the most meaningful journeys reconnect us with voices nearly forgotten. Performing across solo, chamber, orchestral, and Broadway stages, including Radio City, Louise brings audiences be
Evlyn Mondo On Courage, Change, And Creating Meaningful Luxury in Barbados
Some people take trips. Evlyn Mondo built an entirely new life through travel.Her journey from science labs and academic classrooms in Quebec to leading a luxury villa in Barbados is a story of reinvention guided by courage, intuition, and heart. As CEO and Managing Director of Villa Casablanca at Sandy Lane, Evlyn is redefining what luxury truly means by shifting the focus from opulence to connec
A Musical Journey Through Time And Place With Pianist Terry Eder
We often think of travel as moving across maps with new cities, new landscapes, new horizons. But the most profound journeys happen in ways you cannot trace on a globe. They happen through music. Through sound. Through the stories hidden in every note.Pianist Terry Eder lives life and art emboding this idea. Her performances have taken her from Carnegie Hall to Alice Tully Hall and beyond, but she
Rooted in Western North Carolina: The Heart Behind Asheville Regional Airport ❤️
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) stands out because it understands its role as more than a transportation hub and more like an active member of the Western North Carolina community it serves. AVL is intentionally doing the work to ensure that its customers are, quite literally, served by their neighbors. The team at AVL operates as a community within a community, grounded in shared purpose, mutual
Choosing Travel That Truly Fits Your Life With Karen Urosevich
Meet Karen Urosevich, founder of Well Placed Travel, where she helps people discover the places that bring them purpose, peace, and joy. After a 20+ year career leading global design and development projects, Karen followed her calling, and her own wanderlust, to help others explore the world in ways that transform, restore, and inspire. With nearly 40 countries explored and certifications in yoga
Somewhere Past the Last Exit The Road Kept Talking And David Belmont Listened
Step into the world of David Belmont and you’ll find yourself somewhere between a jazz riff, a poetry line, and a road trip that definitely skipped the exit ramp. David is a lifelong musician, writer, mixed-media artist, and a certified original, the kind of counter-culture cool you don’t try to manufacture. He’s effortlessly hip, wildly curious, and just mischievous enough to make life more inter
Where Music Meets the Heart: A Conversation With David LaMotte
This episode of Speaking of Travel opens the door to a new year with intention, warmth, and deep joy as we welcome the extraordinary David LaMotte, songwriter, speaker, peace builder, author, and quiet force for good in the world.Being with David feels like stepping onto a peaceful back porch at sunrise, shoulders soften, the air feels clearer, and you’re reminded that kindness still has a strong
Traveling Gently Through a Neurodiverse World With Dr. Andrew Kahn
Travel is often pictured as excitement, new sights, and adventure. But for many, it can feel overwhelming, exhausting, or even impossible before a trip begins. For individuals navigating ADHD, anxiety, autism, or learning differences, the unfamiliar sounds, routines, and expectations of travel can make even the simplest journey feel heavy. And yet, these truths are rarely spoken with honesty, empa
Redefining the Meaning of Travel And Becoming A Force For Good With Christopher Hill
On this powerful episode of Speaking of Travel, we welcome Christopher Hill, founder of Hands Up Holidays and Impact Destinations, two visionary luxury travel companies transforming the way we explore the world and our place within it. This conversation goes beyond destinations and indulgence, shining a light on what’s possible when travel is rooted in purpose, connection, and responsibility.Joini
A Journey In Words From Arctic Silence To Provençal Light With Elizabeth Birkelund
Elizabeth Birkelund is not just a novelist and journalist. She’s a traveler of landscapes, both worldly and emotional, and a gifted listener to the human heart. Her newest book, A Northern Light in Provence, sweeps us from the crystalline silence of Greenland’s ice fields to the golden, lavender-scented slopes of Provence. With her unmistakable tenderness and immersive storytelling, she reminds us
Trading Certainty for Serendipity with Jonny Wright
Jonny Wright isn’t your typical wanderer. He didn’t torch his old life or sprint toward the horizon in a fit of cinematic rebellion. No doors were slammed. No bridges were burned. Just one quiet, existential moment staring at the ceiling thinking, “Is this it? Seriously? This… can’t be it.”That tiny question sparked a very un-tiny adventure. Jonny packed a bag, stuck out a thumb, and stepped into
Abigail Carter’s Healing Journey In The French Countryside
In a special return episode, we explore a journey of resilience, reinvention, and rediscovering joy. Abigail Carter, a gifted writer and artist, faced unimaginable loss when she lost her husband in the 9/11 tragedy. For years, grief shaped her days but eventually a quiet inner voice whispered: It’s time to go. Following that calling, Abigail left the familiar behind and settled in a charming châte
Peter Egan’s Storybook Slow-Flight Adventure Across America
Strap in—slowly—and lift off into a sky full of wonder. In this magical episode of Speaking of Travel, beloved writer and adventurer Peter Egan returns to share the extraordinary tale of the 7,000-mile journey he and his wife Barbara made in 1987… at the dreamy, unhurried pace of 70 miles per hour.Aboard their vintage Piper Cub, carrying just 20 pounds of luggage and an open-ended sense of curiosi
Where Storytelling Meets The Journey With Peter Murphy Lewis
In this episode of Speaking of Travel, brace yourself for a high-voltage deep dive into reinvention, resilience, and the raw power of storytelling. We’re joined by Peter Murphy Lewis, a global entrepreneur, magnetic storyteller, and creative catalyst who has built brands on multiple continents, led teams through chaos, and transformed collapse into pure momentum.From building businesses across Sou
Journey To Wellness At The Art Of Living Retreat Center
Our well-being is the foundation of everything. It's the quiet thread that weaves through our lives, shaping how we move through the world and how we connect with others. And how we care for ourselves. Yet, somewhere along the way, we can lose sight of that simple truth. Life gets busy and we forget the importance of slowing down long enough to listen to what our hearts are trying to tell us.
The Wazoo Philosophy To Travel Smarter And Freer From Survival To Confidence
Practical travel gear isn’t just stuff in a bag but really is peace of mind. It’s survival, resilience, and the quiet confidence of knowing, “I’ve got this,” whether you’re exploring the far corners of the globe or facing a disaster right at home. In a world where unexpected events can strike at any moment, being prepared isn’t just practical, it’s empowering. In this episode of Speaking of Travel
Intrepid Travel Brings Meaningful Journeys To Curious Explorers
Speaking of Travel welcomes Leigh Barnes, the new President of the Americas for Intrepid Travel, a certified B Corp travel company on a mission to make travel a force for good. Leigh leads Intrepid’s fastest-growing U.S. market, bringing curiosity, compassion, and care for the planet to every adventure. Leigh shares how his love of adventure shaped his career and leadership style and why responsib
Falling In Love With The Magic Of Trinidad And Tobago With HADCO Experiences
For over a decade, Speaking of Travel has been the place where we explore the heart of travel, connection, and community. And now we’re heading to the twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago to uncover how adventure, comfort, and sustainability can come together to create truly meaningful journeys. Our guest, John Hadad, Group Co-CEO and Co-Founder of HADCO Group, is leading a movement through H
Asheville Regional Airport Is Shaping The Future Of Air Travel Beyond The Gate
Airports are more than gateways and more like the heartbeats of their communities.In this episode of Speaking of Travel, discover how the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is redefining what it means to connect people, place, and purpose. With air travel soaring, AVL’s bold AVL Forward project is transforming the airport experience, more than doubling its space, introducing a fresh, modern design,
The Team Behind Leave No Trace TV Shares Lessons From The Road
I’m excited to continue the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV series with Richard (Ricky) Crawford, host of the inspiring Amazon Prime TV series Leave No Trace TV, along with Ben Alcott, the show’s talented director and cameraman from Australia who brings his unique perspectives from behind the lens and shares reflections on how storytelling, patience, and a deep respect for place can open up
The Sweetness Of Slowing Down And Saying Yes To Italy
Life doesn’t always follow the script we think it will. Sometimes, a single moment can shift everything and suddenly, you’re standing at a crossroads with a suitcase in one hand and your heart in the other, asking, what if? That’s exactly the journey our guest, Julie Levin Caro, has embraced. After more than two decades as an art historian and professor, she stepped into a new chapter filled with
Global Leadership Meets Outdoor Adventure And Community Impact
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we're joined by Colin McBeath, President of the Nantahala Outdoor Center, to talk about the magic of the outdoors and the power of travel to connect us all. With more than 30 years leading hospitality and resort operations around the world, Colin shares his heartfelt perspective on how tourism brings communities together, helps us recover and grow, and i
How Travel And Tourism Thrives Through Change With Justin Belleme
Travel and tourism have always been about more than just places on a map. They are about connection, culture, and community. On this episode of Speaking of Travel, I sit down with Justin Belleme, Publisher and Partnerships Manager at RomanticAsheville.com, to explore how tourism in Western North Carolina has evolved, adapted, and thrived in the face of change. Justin’s journey is a story of full-c
Discover Vietnam Beyond The Guidebooks With Vespa Adventures
Vietnam today is full of color, music, and energy and is a culture that welcomes travelers with open arms. On this episode of Speaking of Travel, I’m joined by Steve Mueller, founder of Vespa Adventures, who turned his love for Vespas and travel into a business that shows visitors the real Vietnam. Steve shares how he fell for the country, his passion for vintage scooters, and how Vespa Adventures
Mindful Leadership In A Rapidly Changing Travel World With Rob Lee
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we sit down with Rob Lee, co-founder of Swift Passport & Visa Services, to explore what strong, mindful leadership looks like in today’s fast-paced travel world.Rob has built one of the leading companies in global travel logistics, and what sets him apart is his unique ability to combine business innovation with the grounding presence of a yoga teacher. W
The Power Of Travel To Transform Lives Where The Silk Road Still Whispers
Meet Abdylla Geldiyev, founder of Undiscovered Frontiers Travel and a true testament to courage and perseverance. Born and raised in the vast Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan, Abdylla’s story is one of relentless determination to overcome barriers and forge a path to share the magic wonders of his homeland and other lesser-known destinations with the world. Together we explore Turkmenistan’s dazzlin
Shari Leid Flips The Box To Find Belonging One Meal At A Time
Welcome Shari Leid, a connection coach, friendship expert, and creator of Table For 51. A former litigator turned champion of belonging, Shari spent a year traveling to all 50 states, sharing a meal with 50 strangers. What she discovered is simple yet profound: breaking bread isn’t just about food. It is about lowering walls, opening hearts, and finding common ground, even in a divided world. From
How Kilohana Is Reimagining Responsible Travel In Hawai‘i With Respect And Heart
Hawai‘i is unlike anywhere else and not just for its breathtaking beauty, but for the living spirit that moves through its people, its land, and its traditions. In Hawai’i, culture isn’t a performance, but rather the pulse of daily life. On today’s episode, I’m deeply honored to welcome Ka’iʻini Aranaydo. Ka’iʻini oversees Kilohana, a groundbreaking and visionary partnership with the Hawai’i Touri
Creede, Colorado Is Elevating Art To New Heights In A Stunning Renaissance
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re heading high into Colorado’s San Juan Mountains to uncover the charm and magic of Creede, a tiny town with a mighty story. Once a booming silver mining camp, Creede has transformed into a cultural haven where creativity and adventure collide. At the center of it all is the Creede Repertory Theatre, a nationally renowned professional company that’s been
The Life Changing Wisdom And Soul Of Italy With Judith Valente
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re joined by the wise and luminous Judith Valente, an award-winning journalist, poet, and author of The Italian Soul: How to Savor the Full Joys of Life. Judith brings us into the soulful rhythms of Italy, a place that taught her to live not faster, but deeper. Drawing from her own transformation from the high-speed world of journalism to the stillness of
Liza Graves of StyleBlueprint Built A Life Fueled By Travel, Curiosity, and Connection
In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, we welcome Liza Graves, founder of StyleBlueprint and a beloved leader in the lifestyle space, for a rich conversation about how travel has quietly and powerfully shaped her life. From the traditions she’s built with family, to the friendships that have deepened over shared adventures, and even the very fabric of her professional journey, travel has b
Leave No Trace TV With Richard Crawford: A Guide To Sustainable Exploration
In this compelling episode of Speaking of Travel, we welcome back Richard "Ricky" Crawford, host of the Amazon Prime series Leave No Trace TV and a passionate voice for sustainable travel, conservation, and global community. We dive into the power of mindful exploration and how slowing down, connecting with local cultures, and embracing sustainability can transform not just our journeys,
The Journey Of Renaissance Women Through Italy’s Hidden Artistic History
In this unforgettable episode, I’m joined by the extraordinary Jane Adams, a passionate advocate, art historian, and formerly the Director of Partnership Relations for Advancing Women Artists. Today she is co-founder and CEO of Artemisia Gold. Jane brings with her a deeply moving and richly layered story, one that begins with the spark of a mission ignited by author and philanthropist Jane Fortun
Slow Down And See More By Journeying Through Japan with Miyuki Seguchi
Today’s guest is someone whose life feels like a gentle invitation to pause, listen, and truly see. Meet Miyuki Seguchi, a bilingual travel expert, guide, and host of the Japan Experts podcast. Born among the rice paddies and mountain breezes of central Japan, Miyuki’s path has led her across continents and cultures, all while staying deeply rooted in her homeland’s rhythms and rituals. From worki
Discover The Beauty, Warmth, and Soul of Cuba With Vanessa K. Harper
In this vibrant and heart-centered episode, we sit down with Vanessa K. Harper, founder of Travel Cuba With Us and Support the Cuban People, to explore the powerful intersection of ethical tourism, yoga, and humanitarian support in Cuba today.Vanessa leads with purpose, offering deeply immersive cultural experiences that directly benefit Cuban communities. Through her travel company, she curates l
How AI Is Transforming Travel And Making Your Trips More Personal, Human, and Joyful
What if planning your next adventure felt more like a conversation with a trusted friend than a checklist? In this episode of Speaking of Travel, I’m joined by Anna Jaffe and Harriet Brown of Mobi.AI, a powerful new platform reimagining travel planning through the lens of empathy, technology, and storytelling. This is more than a travel episode. It’s a love letter to curiosity, to wandering with p
Pilar Guzmán On The Soul Of Travel And The Art Of Living Well At Oprah Daily
In this soul-stirring episode of Speaking of Travel, we welcome the radiant and deeply authentic Pilar Guzmán, Editorial Director of Oprah Daily, whose voice has long guided readers toward lives of intention, connection, and beauty. With grace, warmth, and unflinching honesty, Pilar opens up about her creative vision for Oprah Daily, a space that has become a sanctuary for mindful living, soulful
Alexandra Kinias Empowers Egyptian Women Through A Global Sisterhood
In this unforgettable episode of Speaking of Travel, meet Alexandra Kinias, a fearless trailblazer rewriting the rules on what it means to live boldly, age defiantly, and lead with purpose.From forging her path as a mechanical engineer in a male-dominated world to becoming a celebrated screenwriter and outspoken women’s rights advocate, Alex’s life is a breathtaking testament to courage, reinventi
Abigail Carter’s Journey To Healing And Joy In The French Countryside
Today’s episode is a breathtaking story of courage, healing, and the radical choice to seek joy after unimaginable loss.I’m so honored to share the journey of Abigail Carter, a writer, artist, and one of the most soulfully brave humans I’ve ever met. After losing her husband in the 9/11 attacks, Abby spent years learning how to live with grief. But when the buzz and blur of life became too much, a
This Emmy-Nominated Show Is Redefining What Inclusion in Travel Really Looks Like
Welcome back to a brand-new episode of Speaking of Travel! We’re making a BIG deal out of this one for good reason.Drumroll, please... The first season of Traveling the Spectrum, the powerful series we highlighted right here on Speaking of Travel, is streaming on Peacock and has just been nominated for an Emmy Award! That’s right! This groundbreaking series is receiving the recognition it deserves
Come Alive At Tybee Wellness Retreats To Reconnect And Remember Who You Are
In this deeply nourishing episode, we welcome Angela Lightsey, the vibrant soul behind Tybee Wellness Retreats, where transformation and tranquility beautifully intertwine. Angela has created more than just a getaway. She’s built a sanctuary where women come to heal, grow, and reconnect with their truest selves amid the natural beauty of Tybee Island and beyond. Together, we dive into what really
White Squirrels, Waterfalls, And More Brevard, NC, Magic With Clark Lovelace
There’s something in the water in Brevard, NC and we’re not just talking about the waterfalls (though there are plenty of those!). Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this sweet town sparkles with big charm, quirky wildlife (hello, white squirrels!), and the kind of hospitality that stays with you long after you leave. On this uplifting episode of Speaking of Travel, local legend Cla
Filmmaker Brady Skye’s Transformative Journey Into Indigenous Maya Life
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, award-winning filmmaker Brady Skye joins us to share the powerful story behind his new documentary, Beyond The Ruins, a film that doesn’t just challenge the way we travel, but invites us to reconsider whose stories we center and how we show up in the world. This is not a film about the past. It’s about the present. About connection. About listening. Through i
Casting, Connection, And Curiosity: Karlie Loland-Ringer On Living A Life In Motion
Get ready to meet Karlie Loland-Ringer, a powerhouse casting director whose life is anything but ordinary. With a spirit for adventure and a career that spans coast-to-coast, Karlie lives where work and wanderlust collide. One moment she is behind the scenes making casting magic happen and the next, she’s soaking up quiet sunsets on a faraway beach.In this conversation, Karlie dives into how the c
Asheville Rises: A Story of Resilience, Recovery, and Community Spirit
In this impactful episode of Speaking of Travel, we shine a light on the incredible resilience of Asheville, North Carolina, a city that turned heartbreak into hope and recovery into a rallying cry. From the moment disaster struck, this tight-knit mountain town showed the world what community truly means. Neighbors helped neighbors. Local businesses found creative ways to reopen their doors. Artis
Meet Me Where Waterfalls, Wonder, And Mountain Magic Comes Alive In Brevard, NC
What if your next adventure wasn’t just about the destination, but the feeling it leaves behind? In this heartwarming episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re heading to a place where waterfalls whisper, trails lead to awe, and kindness is part of the culture... Brevard, North Carolina.Nestled in Transylvania County in the heart of the Land of Waterfalls, Brevard is more than just a scenic stop. It’s
Discovering A Life Less Ordinary in Panama with Melissa Darnay
Imagine a place where two oceans meet, rainforests hum with life, and vibrant city streets blend seamlessly with untouched natural beauty. That place? Panama! Whether you're craving adventure, eyeing a tropical escape, or dreaming of a fresh start, Panama has it all with its stunning beaches, a booming economy, modern conveniences, and a welcoming, diverse culture.On this episode of Speaking
Todd Lester Is Saying Yes to Adventure, One Journey at a Time
For Todd Lester, travel isn’t just about checking destinations off a list. It’s really about embracing the unknown, connecting with people, and finding magic in unexpected moments. His latest adventure took him to Spain, where he joined Pueblo Inglés, a one-of-a-kind program that brings together native English speakers and Spanish students for a week of immersive conversation, culture, and connect
Richard Crawford’s Leave No Trace Guide To Traveling With Purpose And Loving Every Moment
Guess who’s back? Richard "Ricky" Crawford, the inspiring host of Amazon Prime’s Leave No Trace TV! If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling with purpose, making a positive impact, and immersing yourself in cultures while preserving them, you won’t want to miss this conversation.Ricky is a powerhouse advocate for sustainable travel, conservation, and the power of community. He’s all about sho
Discover The Music, The Mission, And The Magic Of Lara Downes
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re exploring the world of music, history, and innovation with the one and only Lara Downes, a pianist, storyteller, and cultural force redefining classical music in bold and unexpected ways.Lara doesn’t just play music. She tells stories through it. She revives the voices of overlooked composers, blending classical traditions with jazz, folk, and contempor
How One Man’s Global Bike Ride And Ant Farms Transformed His View of the World
Some dream of adventure. Others strap their lives to a bicycle and chase it across continents. Meet Jacob Lemanski, the unstoppable explorer behind How To Move The Stars, a video podcast chronicling his extraordinary 38,000-mile solo ride across six continents. His journey was more than just a test of endurance. It was a deep dive into the unknown, where every pedal stroke became a lesson in resil
The Cleveland Chamber Music Society And Cleveland Museum Of Art Unite For A Spectacular 75th Anniversary Celebration
Where would we be without music? Without the arts? Imagine a world without the rush of a live performance, the thrill of harmony, or the power of a single note to move you. Music fuels our imagination, sparks emotions, and connects us across generations and cultures. Chamber music, in particular, is storytelling at its most intimate—a soul-stirring conversation between instruments that transcends
