Speaking Of Travel ®

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 quiet whisper inside nudged her toward something new.So she listened. Fast forward...She packed up her life and moved to a charming little château in the sun-drenched countryside of southwest France. Yes, France! Picture golden fields of sunflowers, deep breaths, and slow mornings with coffee and birdsong. It’s here that Abby began again.But this is not just a story about moving to France. It’s about moving forward. About what happens when we follow the gentle pull toward something more, like more peace, more purpose, more joy.Now Abby has turned her home into a retreat space for women over 50, creating a haven wher

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 for changing lives and redefining travel.This episode is a celebration and a deep dive into why Traveling the Spectrum is so special, so necessary, and so long overdue. For too long, families with loved ones on the autism spectrum felt that travel was out of reach. But now? The world is opening up and this series is leading the way.We’re joined by Tommy Caamano and Peter Prokop, visionary producers and co-directors at The Workshop, the creative force behind Traveling the Spectrum. These passionate storytellers are breaking barriers and giving families the tools, hope, and inspiration to confidently explore the world

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 happens during a wellness retreat and Angela shares how these sacred spaces foster genuine sisterhood, spark inner clarity, and offer a safe, empowering path for solo female travelers and Angela reminds us how each dimension matters and how retreats help rebalance what daily life often pulls out of alignment. Angela’s work is a joyful invitation to slow down, tune in, and remember who you are. This episode will leave you inspired, grounded, and ready to ask: What do I need right now?Tune in! Only on Speaking of Travel!  Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel sto

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 Clark Lovelace, Executive Director of the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, shares why Brevard isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. From epic bike trails and cozy cafés to how the town is balancing growth and sustainability, Clark dives into what makes Brevard one of the most heartwarming, awe-inspiring places in Western North Carolina.You're in for a real treat! Start making your plans today.Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.

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 immersive storytelling, Brady brings us into the homes of contemporary Maya families, where cultural humility, reciprocity, and shared humanity take the spotlight. In his search for deeper meaning, Brady explores the wisdom of Yucatecan Maya traditions, not as an outsider, but as someone striving to live alongside, to learn, and to belong. He speaks movingly about finding your tribe, not just in people who look or live like you, but in those who open your heart and help you remember that we are all one. Beyond The Ruins is more than a documentary. It’s a call to travel with intention, to engage with respect, and to di

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 casting industry has transformed in a post-pandemic world and what those changes mean for talent, creators, and storytellers everywhere.But for Karlie, travel isn’t just a getaway. It is fuel for creativity, a way to stay inspired, and a way of life. She opens up about how she finds balance in the chaos, stays grounded through movement and curiosity, and builds deep connections along the way. Whether you’re a creative, a traveler, or simply someone itching for more adventure in your everyday grind, Karlie’s journey is living proof: you can build a thriving career, chase your passions, and still catch a killer sunset a

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. Artists, chefs, and entrepreneurs proved that Asheville’s spirit could never be washed away.Joining the show is the amazing Mickey Poandl, the masterful storyteller and PR mastermind at Explore Asheville. Mickey shares honest insights, recovery numbers, and the soul-stirring moments that define Asheville’s comeback.Together, we reflect on what it means to build back—not just buildings and streets, but trust, joy, and connection.This episode is more than a story of recovery. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the role travel plays in healing and transformation. Whether you're a longtime local, a curious

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 a soulful escape. With its lush forests, world-class biking and hiking, creative community spirit, and yes, even white squirrels, Brevard invites you to slow down and soak in the wonder.Joining us is Brevard’s hometown hospitality hero, Clark Lovelace, Executive Director of the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority. Clark shares how his family’s legacy in welcoming guests shaped his deep love for this town, what’s new and exciting in the region, and how Brevard is setting the standard for sustainable tourism and meaningful connections.Whether you’re dreaming of your next mountain getaway, searching for sm

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 of Travel, Melissa Darnay, CEO of Choose Panama, shares how she turned her Panama dreams into reality—and how you can too!From expat life and smart investments to hidden gems and must-know travel tips, Melissa reveals why Panama is the perfect place to visit, live, and explore.Melissa is sharing what makes Panama so special with its stunning natural beauty and thriving economy to its welcoming culture and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, lush mountains, or a vibrant city life, Melissa will show you why Panama might just be the perfect place to write your next chapter. 

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 connection. No textbooks and no formal lessons. Just real conversations, shared experiences, and the kind of learning that happens when walls come down and laughter takes over.From the lively streets of Madrid to the breathtaking Spanish countryside, Todd found himself swapping stories over tapas, witnessing the fire and passion of this amazing country, and forming friendships that stretched beyond language barriers. What started as a volunteer experience quickly became something much bigger—a reminder of why travel is so transformative. It’s not just about seeing new places; it’s about discovering new sides of yourself, fi

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 showing us how to see the world while protecting it, from choosing destinations that give back to embracing slow travel and minimizing our footprint along the way.We’ll dive into the most exciting, game-changing ways to rethink how we explore and Ricky will share insider tips on how small actions can lead to big change, making every journey meaningful.So whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a globe-trotting adventurer, get ready to be inspired. This episode is packed with wisdom, wanderlust, and ways to travel smarter. Are you ready to see the world differently? Let’s go! Visit the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV

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 contemporary influences to create something fresh, vibrant, and deeply personal. Her work is a bridge between the past and the future, proving that music is more than just sound. Lara's music is, in fact, a living, breathing force that connects us all.But her impact doesn’t stop at the piano. Lara is a champion for inclusivity, using her platform to elevate underrepresented voices and spark conversations that go far beyond the concert hall. Through her work as a performer, activist, curator, and NPR host, she’s opening doors, challenging conventions, and inspiring audiences around the world.Today, we’ll dive into her jou

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 resilience, every obstacle a chance to redefine limits.From battling brutal headwinds to enduring relentless heat, Jacob discovered that adventure isn’t just about conquering miles. It's about surrendering to the experience. He learned that the road is unpredictable, and the only way forward is to embrace both the struggle and the beauty in equal measure.For Jacob, the journey didn’t end when the wheels stopped spinning. Upon returning home, his creativity took on a whole new form. He began crafting psychedelic ant farms, a reflection of the interconnected, ever-moving world he had experienced on his ride. The patien

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 words.And thanks to the Cleveland Chamber Music Society, we don’t have to travel to the great concert halls of Europe to experience it. Joining Speaking of Travel is Steve Somach, Program Committee Chair of the Cleveland Chamber Music Society, and Gabe Pollack, the Director of Performing Arts at the Cleveland Museum of Art. As the Cleveland Chamber Music Society celebrates its milestone 75th anniversary, the organization is expanding its reach, collaborating with the Cleveland Museum of Art to make chamber music more accessible than ever. This partnership brings performances into one of the city’s most treasured cult

For many families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, travel has long felt out of reach. But that’s changing. Traveling the Spectrum is a groundbreaking new series proving that inclusive, autism-friendly travel isn’t just possible—it’s transformative.Destinations like Myrtle Beach, SC, are leading the way with sensory-friendly programs, specially trained businesses, and inclusive experiences, ensuring that every family has the opportunity to explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories together. Because travel isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s about breaking barriers, fostering joy, and proving that the world is meant for everyone.Today we’re joined by Stuart Butler, Creator of Traveling the Spectrum and Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Myrtle Beach, and Peter Prokop, Co-Director and Producer at The Workshop. They’ll share how this series is changing lives, giving families the confidence to embrace adventure, and inspiring destinations to become more inclusive. A must listen! Only on Speakin

Close your eyes and picture yourself gliding through sun-drenched vineyards, stopping for a sip of rich local wine, and indulging in a long, leisurely meal crafted with love. Now imagine doing it all on two wheels, feeling the warm breeze as you cycle through Italy’s most breathtaking landscapes. Welcome to the Tourissimo experience—a blend of adventure, culture, and the art of slow living.Joining us is Heather Dowd, co-founder of Tourissimo, a company celebrating a decade of curating unforgettable cycling and hiking tours throughout Italy. Whether you're craving a scenic ride through Italy's rolling hills or a deep dive into Puglia's hidden treasures, Tourissimo creates journeys that immerse you in the heart of Italy. In this episode, Heather shares expert travel and wellness tips, from how to embrace active exploration to discovering lesser-known regions of Italy perfect for hiking and biking. And so much more!If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling through Italy like a local and meeting artisans

Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the future of travel! The Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace series is back with Richard Crawford, host of the hit show Leave No Trace TV, and director and filmmaker Ben Alcott, joining us from Australia as they wrap up Season Two!This episode is all about transforming the way we explore the world—with curiosity, adaptability, and sustainability leading the way. With climate change, over-tourism, and environmental concerns at an all-time high, now more than ever, travelers must rethink their impact. Richard and Ben bring their firsthand experiences from breathtaking locations across the globe, sharing powerful stories, practical tips, and insights on how to make a difference while still embracing adventure.From choosing eco-friendly accommodations to supporting local communities and avoiding single-use plastics, we’ll uncover simple yet meaningful ways to reduce our footprint while enriching our travel experiences. Sustainability isn’t about sacrifice—it’s about trav

Ever wonder how the tiniest creatures on Earth shape your biggest adventures? Meet microbes—your invisible travel companions, working behind the scenes to transform the air you breathe, the food you savor, and even how your body adapts to new places. These microscopic marvels boost immunity, connect us to ecosystems, and fuel cultural traditions like fermented foods and biodiversity hotspots.Joining us is Dr. Melissa Booth, a microbiologist, sustainability scientist, and passionate storyteller, who reveals how these unseen allies influence our journeys in ways we never imagined. From the microbes in ancient fermentation techniques to the ones thriving in extreme environments, she’ll uncover how they shape our world—and our experiences within it.Her Great Courses series, The Hidden Power of Microbes, explores these tiny powerhouses that shape life, fuel ecosystems, and keep us thriving. Get ready for a fascinating deep dive into the microbial universe, where science meets adventure, and the teeniest things mak

Let's take a deep dive into the magic of music, culture, and connection as we travel back to 1995 and the origin story of LEAF Global Arts, a transformative organization with a mission as bold as it is beautiful. From preserving cultural traditions to fostering global understanding through music, arts education, and immersive experiences, LEAF Global Arts has been creating unforgettable moments for nearly three decades.Jennifer Pickering, Co-Executive Director and Founder, and Leigh Maher, her partner in life and leadership, COO and Lake Eden Retreat General Manager, share their incredible journey of co-creating over 50 awe-inspiring festivals and countless global adventures. Along the way, they've built not only a legacy of creativity and resilience but also a vibrant community united by the universal language of art.With stories that span the globe, LEAF Global Arts proves that music and art are powerful bridges between people, sparking joy and understanding. This is a celebration of a movement th

Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, is a visionary leader steering one of the region's most transformative airports. Under his leadership, the airport has achieved record-breaking passenger growth, overcome challenges like natural disasters, and expanded its role as a vital economic engine for the community. Lew shares the highs and lows of 2024, including new air service routes, major infrastructure upgrades, and disaster relief efforts. Looking ahead to 2025, he paints an inspiring picture of the airport's future, including cutting-edge projects like a new concourse, enhanced parking, and an expanded aircraft capacity to position the airport as a leader in regional aviation. Lew also discusses the Asheville Regional Airport's far-reaching economic impact, with plans to strengthen its role as a hub for growth, connectivity, and innovation. This is a story of resilience, patience, and collaboration. And proof that when a community comes together,