Zero To Travel Podcast

What do you do when the adventure ends?  Tom Turcich is a motivational speaker, author, and the tenth person in history to walk around the world. Over seven years, he and his dog, Savannah, covered 28,000 miles across 38 countries and six continents, completing the journey in 2022. He is the author of the memoir The World Walk and the children's book Savannah's World of Adventure.  In this episode, Tom shares what returning home after long-term travel actually looks like, from the mental and emotional toll of losing the road, to the financial catch-up game, to the harder question of who you are once the adventure is over.  If you've ever come back from a trip and felt a strange kind of grief you couldn't quite name, this one is for you. Tom is remarkably open about the difficulty of that first year back, and the conversation gets into territory that doesn't often get talked about after a big journey ends. There's real honesty here about what it takes to find your footing again, how to rebuild adventure into a life that isn't handing it to you every day, and how to make peace with the constraints that come with settling down.  What's one thing you've held onto from a big trip that's hard to explain to people who weren't there? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Tom describes his first year back as the only depression he's ever experienced  How the world "stops coming at you" when you settle down, and what it takes to rebuild that muscle  The unexpected mental and emotional challenge of no longer having a North Star  Why consistency beats passion when it comes to making progress, in travel and in life  What two years of walking in the Atacama Desert taught Tom about happiness  Why your traveler identity matters less than the values underneath it  How walking became a years-long meditation practice Tom didn't see coming  The one mindset Tom would give anyone coming off the road for the first time  Why building community after a big adventure takes longer than most people expect  What it means to choose your constraints rather than just accept them  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Tom’s website  The World Walk book  Microadventures book  Want More?  Walking the World with Alexander Campbell and Tom Turcich  The World Walk (Trilogy): Lessons From A 7 Year Walk Around The World w/ Tom Turcich  Exploring A Single Map: A Travel Adventure For Everyone With Alastair Humphreys  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Check out Morning Brew Daily for business news that's actually fun.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

What does it actually take to give yourself permission to live unconventionally, and what's really standing in the way?  I had the opportunity to be a guest on the My Most Authentic Life podcast with Fede Vargas, a conversation we recorded live on the rooftop at Podcast Movement Evolutions during South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. Fede interviewed me about the themes that run through this show, including unconventional paths, pivots, lifestyle design, and what it means to choose differently.  This conversation pulls out some of my most honest thinking on what it means to give yourself permission to live unconventionally. We talk openly about my decade as a nomad with no fixed home, the internal and external forces that push back against unconventional choices, and how imposter syndrome never goes away but can be trained around. There's a lot here that I think will resonate if you've ever felt the pull of a different path but weren't sure you were allowed to take it.  Tune In To Learn:  Why giving yourself permission is often the first and hardest obstacle on any unconventional path  How imposter syndrome works as a muscle you can train, not a problem you solve  What it means to "pivot" before you've actually made any outward moves  Why the journey before the journey has more value than most people realize  How lifestyle design is less about optimization and more about filtering decisions through your ideal daily life  Why the "perfect average day" exercise is a practical starting point for anyone designing their life  How I spent a decade as a nomadic tour manager, including driving the Meow Mix Catmobile across the U.S.  What unexpected things can happen when you follow your gut, even last-minute  Why my definition of authenticity comes down to one word  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  My Most Authentic Life  Instagram  The Perfect Average Day  Laundry House  Want More?  How to Pivot to a Life With More Freedom (And Travel), Get More Free Time, and Unlock Your Intuition With Jenny Blake  How to Navigate Transitions and Design Your Life (Without the BS) with Lauren Handel Zander  Two Paths to Location Independence and Travel (No Skills Required) With Caitlin Sunderland and Janessa Klatt  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Get 20% of at Cozy Earth with code ‘TRAVEL’  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

What would it take for you to actually turn travel into a lifestyle, not just a vacation?  Nick Wharton and Dariece Swift are the Canadian couple behind Goats On The Road, one of the longest-running travel and lifestyle blogs online. Since leaving Canada in 2008, they have lived and traveled full-time across Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Caribbean, funding their adventures through teaching English abroad, house sitting, freelance writing, and eventually building a successful travel blog and suite of online courses.  In this episode, Nick and Dariece share the real, unfiltered story of how two regular people from a small town in Canada traded their office jobs and oil rig shifts for a decade of long-term travel, and how they've figured out how to keep it going.  This episode covers what it really takes to make travel a long-term lifestyle, from the mindset shifts that keep you going to the practical ways people actually fund life on the road. Nick and Dariece have been doing this for over a decade and speak honestly about the challenges of traveling as a couple, building an online business from scratch, and knowing when to step back from work and just travel. I also share my own perspective on staying connected to your highest values as your life and travel style evolve.  What has been your biggest mental or practical barrier to making travel a more permanent part of your life, and has anything ever helped you push past it? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen.   Tune In To Learn:  What happened after their first 13-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia that set everything in motion  The beach meltdown in Thailand that led to one of the boldest and most pivotal moves of their travels  What it really takes to travel as a couple 24/7, and the specific things Nick and Dariece do to keep it working  How Goats On The Road started and the shift in approach that became their biggest turning point  Why they almost let video ruin the travel experience, and what they did about it  How they've managed to avoid full burnout after more than a decade of living and working on the road  The mix of jobs and strategies they've used at different stages to keep the travels funded and going  How their travel style has evolved over a decade and what the lifestyle actually looks like for them now  My three principles for keeping travel a lifelong priority, no matter where you are in life  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Goats On The Road  Hash House Harriers  Want More?  Transition to Travel: From Burnout to a Year Around the World with Sofia and Teague  Building a Travel Lifestyle: Digital Nomadism, Slow Travel, Exploring Latin America with Kyle Cohenour  The Reality of Digital Nomad Life (Warts and All) With Steph and Dalt  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Get 20% of at Cozy Earth with code ‘TRAVEL’  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

Oslo doesn't hit you the way other European capitals do. There's no single monument everyone leaves talking about, and yet people consistently walk away from this city with a feeling they can't quite explain.  Curtis Rojak is an American expat who has lived in Europe for over 25 years and holds dual Norwegian-American citizenship. He is the founder of Viking Biking, Oslo's premier guided bike and hiking tour company, and has led more than 3,000 tours through Oslo on foot and by bike.   This episode is a local's guide to Oslo, recorded in my living room with Curtis. We cover seven hidden gems in the city, from a haunting mausoleum most tourists never find to a private island cabin you can rent for a night on the Oslo Fjord.  This episode covers what makes a place feel like home versus just a place you've visited, what it takes to genuinely know a city at a local level, and how to discover the experiences that don't make it into guidebooks. You'll also hear honest conversation about building a life abroad long-term, what draws people to certain places, and why the best travel experiences often come from knowing someone who actually lives there. Curtis brings real depth on Oslo specifically, but the broader themes about place, belonging, and authentic discovery apply to anywhere you're considering visiting or moving to.   Have you ever discovered a hidden gem in a city that completely changed how you thought about that place? I'd love to hear your story, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why one of Norway's most extraordinary pieces of art is hidden in a mausoleum most tourists never find, and how to actually visit it  How to spend a Norwegian summer day at a lakeside farm where animals roam free through landscape gardens  Where to find secret sea cliffs near the city, and where locals actually jump from  Why a restaurant on its own private island captures the Norwegian good life better than almost anywhere else in the city  What makes one of Europe's best cocktail bars worth the New York-level prices you'll pay  How to rent a private island cabin on the Oslo Fjord through a local organization almost no tourists know about  Why Curtis believes Oslo's greatest strength is also what most tourists only notice on their last day  What 25 years as an expat taught Curtis about choosing where to live and why gut feeling matters more than logic  How the "Lego Country" exercise surfaces the best things about multiple continents and destinations  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Viking Biking  Want More?  https://zerototravel.com/viking-biking/  Hidden Norway: 7 Off the Beaten Path Gems You'll Love with Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway  Top 10 Reasons to Love Living Abroad with Botik Quest  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Get 20% of at Cozy Earth with code ‘TRAVEL’  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

From destinations that challenge your assumptions to the routines and mindsets that make this lifestyle actually sustainable, join Caitlin and Janessa as they unpack what's been on their minds this month.  Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel's associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need-to-know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world.  In this episode, Janessa reports back from a solo trip to a destination most travelers hesitate to visit alone, Caitlin shares a surprisingly simple tool for building calm and consistency into nomadic life, and both take a hard look at a habit nearly every long-term traveler has that might be doing more harm than good. There are also a few remote work stories from the community that prove people will go to remarkable lengths to keep living life on their own terms.  Have you ever talked yourself out of a destination based on what you'd heard, or found a way to build more balance into a life that never really stops moving? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Janessa says this distinction is one of the most important things solo travelers can internalize when traveling somewhere new  How a single offhand comment on the podcast led Janessa to an unexpected scuba trip  What solo travel in Egypt costs, why Cairo might not be your best nomad base, and what to consider instead  A breathing technique that's worth adding to your daily routine while traveling  Why you may want to create intentional seasons in your year even when the weather never changes  The most committed remote work workarounds, and why it actually made sense   And much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Caitlin on Instagram  Janessa on Instagram  Diving Nomads  Want More?  Remote Roundup: Solo Travel Hot Takes, Nomad Budgeting, Rookie Mistakes, Cape Town & Mexico City (March 2026)  7 Epic Travel Fitness Adventures (For All Levels) and Solo Travel for Transformation with Heidi Nicklaus (+ Jason’s Ultimate Travel Blunder)  7 Pro Tips For Traveling In Dangerous Countries w/ Bjorn Palsson  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Get 20% of at Cozy Earth with code ‘TRAVEL’  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

What if the part of Brazil most worth exploring is the one almost nobody talks about?  Eddie Lott is a Dallas-born expedition leader who has spent nearly two decades studying Brazilian history, geography, and culture. He rediscovered the Serra do Espinhaco in 2018 and has been documenting its trails and communities ever since. Elisa Oliveira is a Brazilian architect turned expedition coordinator who left behind her career and her previous life after a single weekend in the Espinhaco in 2019.   Together, they co-founded Gift of Go, a company that builds and leads founder-guided expeditions through one of Brazil's most layered and least-visited mountain ranges, and they are also husband and wife.  In this episode, co-host Paige McClanahan talks with Eddie and Elisa about how Gift of Go came to be, what their expeditions actually look like, and what travelers need to know before heading to this part of Brazil.  This is a rewarding listen for anyone drawn to real adventure travel in Brazil off the beaten path. Eddie and Elisa spent three-plus years walking the terrain, building relationships with local communities, and living in the region before guiding their first traveler. You'll hear why going deep into one place beats skimming across a whole country, how arriving somewhere by foot after 17 days on the trail completely changes how you experience it, and what it means to share a destination that still has almost zero international tourism presence.  Have you ever experienced a place that felt completely untouched by tourism? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Co-host Paige McClanahan is a writer, editor, and former journalist based in Paris, France. As the author of The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel, Paige is passionate about making sure our travels have a positive impact on the world. Learn more about her work here.  Tune In To Learn:  What makes the Espinhaco a microcosm of Brazil's most important ecological, cultural, and historical themes  How Elisa left an engagement and a five-year architecture career after one weekend in a remote mountain village  Why Gift of Go spent three years in the field before guiding their first traveler  What the Veranico is, and why January might be the most spectacular and unpredictable time to visit  How the expedition formats work, from 12-day group treks to fully bespoke solo journeys  Why Brazil receives fewer international visitors per year than the city of Miami, and what that means for the right kind of traveler  Practical tips for Minas Gerais: think in regions, know your biomes, expect limited English, and prepare for the warmth of the people  What to eat and drink, from cachaça and UNESCO-recognized cheese to fig compotes with dulce de leche  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Gift of Go Website  Instagram  Want More?  7 Chile Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten Path in Patagonia, Mapuche Culture, and More with Steph Dyson  How To Be a “New Tourist,” the Powers and Perils of Tourism, Embracing Tourist Traps, and the Impact of Travel With Paige McClanahan  How To Get Off The Beaten Track with Gunnar Garfors  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Get 20% of at Cozy Earth with code ‘TRAVEL’  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

What if one small act of kindness could completely change someone’s life trajectory?  Bryan Driscoll is an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and the author of The Goodness Game. He built a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio while running a marketing company, and he’s now focused on helping people create positive ripple effects through simple acts of kindness.  In this episode, Bryan shares the story that inspired his kindness philosophy and breaks down his five-rule framework for making the world better in a practical, sustainable way.  This episode offers a simple, practical way to approach kindness without overthinking it, something you can use at home or take with you on the road. Bryan breaks down how small, intentional actions can create meaningful impact, and why connection is often more valuable than money. It’s a grounded guide to taking action in a way that feels honest, natural, and aligned with your strengths, while also having a little fun.  What’s one small act of kindness you could commit to this week, even if it feels slightly uncomfortable? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why a random act of kindness at age 18 changed Bryan’s life forever  How the “Goodness Game” turns kindness into a simple daily practice  Why giving without recognition creates a deeper impact  How to identify your personal helping style and use your strengths  Why not everyone is your “assignment” and how to stay in your lane  How to avoid burnout when helping others by creating boundaries  How Bryan used Craigslist to test the ripple effect of kindness  Practical random acts of kindness ideas you can try this week  Why overthinking stops people from helping and how to just start  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Goodness Game website  Want More?  Walking the World with Alexander Campbell and Tom Turcich  Bicycling Across the USA Without Money in Search of Human Connection With Daniel Troia  Connecting with Strangers in 21 Countries as an Introvert, Battling the Loneliness Epidemic, Building Community at Home with Adam Schluter  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Become a Fora Advisor today at foratravel.com/zerototravel  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

What does it actually take to travel well with a partner, and what are the hidden layers of that experience when you're also navigating the world as a queer couple?  Gabi and Shanna Meit-Sciara are a Brooklyn-based couple and the creators of 27 Travels, a platform launched in 2016 to document their adventures while building more visibility and resources for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Gabi is a photographer and graphic designer; Shanna is a videographer and video editor. Together, they've visited 40+ countries and built a full-time creative business rooted in their relationship and their shared love of the world.  In this episode, co-host Dianni Hall sits down with Gabi and Shanna to talk about what it really looks like to build a relationship through travel, how their partnership has been tested and strengthened on the road over ten years, and what the experience of traveling as a queer couple actually involves beyond what most people see.  This conversation is for anyone who's ever taken a trip with someone they care about and had to figure each other out in real time. Gabi and Shanna get specific about the roles they've each naturally fallen into, how they handle conflict during work trips without letting it ruin the experience, and the invisible, exhausting decisions queer couples make constantly on the road that most people never think about. If you've been wondering what traveling as a couple actually looks like when applied to a real, long-term relationship, this one goes deep.  What's a trip that revealed something unexpected about someone you were traveling with? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, freelancer, and host of the While She’s Away podcast, where she interviews women on their travel experience and expertise to help women live their best lives exploring the world. Learn more about her work here.  Tune In To Learn:  Why matching travel styles is one of the most meaningful early tests of a relationship, and how Gabi and Shanna discovered theirs on their first big trip to Arizona  How the roles partners naturally fall into on the road tend to emerge without anyone actually choosing them  Why adding content creation to a relationship and a trip is its own challenge, and what Gabi and Shanna have learned about navigating creative disagreements   What to actually pay attention to on a first trip with a partner, including the green flags most people overlook  How queer couples are constantly making decisions that straight couples rarely have to think about, from safety research to coming out to a stranger in a taxi  What the invisible labor of queer travel looks like in everyday moments: hotel check-ins, ride-shares, tour sign-ups  Why a loose itinerary almost always beats a rigid one, and why missing something can actually be the best thing that happens  New York City hidden gems from two lifelong locals: the case for Brooklyn, vegan food in Chinatown, and more  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  27 Travels  Instagram  YouTube  TikTok  Want More?  LGBTQ+ Travel and Making A Difference with Ravi Roth  Top 7 Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers and Finding Your People Around the World with LGBTQ+ Travel Expert Alicia Valenski  Choose Travel NOW! Lessons from the World’s Longest Honeymoon with National Geographic Authors Mike and Anne Howard of HoneyTrek  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

What if the key to planning your dream trip isn't choosing the right destination, but first figuring out what you actually need right now in your life?  Kelly Tolliday is the founder of Transform With Travel, a professional travel advisor and wellness travel expert with over a decade of industry experience, a retreat facilitator and 500-hour registered yoga teacher, and a podcast host. She has traveled to more than 45 countries and lived across four continents, including extended time in Australia, Thailand, and Costa Rica.  In this episode, Kelly walks through the step-by-step system she uses to plan bucket list trips and how anyone can apply the same framework to start planning their own dream trip today.  Kelly reframes the entire planning process in a way that most of us haven't considered, and it changes not just where you end up going, but how you show up when you get there. She also makes a strong case for why the best travel experiences often come from letting go, even when every instinct is telling you to hold on tighter. You'll not only get Kelly's framework, but destination recommendations and a call to action at the end that I hope you follow through on.  What's one destination that's been sitting on your bucket list for way too long, and what's actually been stopping you from booking it? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why asking "what do I need right now?" is the most important first question in trip planning  How to use urgency as a real planning tool, and why some destinations carry a genuine now-or-never factor  Why mapping out your full route, including transfer time and cost, is often the step that saves the most money  How slow travel creates more space for the unscripted moments that people end up talking about for decades  Why booking independent, locally-owned tour operators almost always leads to more memorable experiences than going with the bigger names  How to approach accommodations with a "sense of place" mindset  Advice on when hiring a professional travel advisor makes sense versus planning a bucket list trip on your own  Why we both agree that physically demanding adventures should move to the top of your list sooner rather than later  Hidden gem destinations worth visiting now, including a little-known Thai island that has somehow stayed off the radar  How to reset your mindset when things go sideways on a trip  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Transform with Travel  Instagram  Want More?  Live Your Bucket List w/ Ryan Jacobson  Curiosity As Your Travel Guide + Exploring Overlooked Destinations with John McKenzie  7 Must-Visit Destinations for 2026 (Get There Before the Crowds Arrive!) with Lyn Hughes  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

What would you do if your bus driver bought six Coca-Colas at the border, cost you your exit stamp, and forced you to sleep outside in malaria country between two countries?  Co-hosts Gunnar Garfors and Jacqui Kunz are back to share part two of their overland travel adventure through West Africa, covering the final stretch of their seven-country journey through Sierra Leone, Liberia, and the Ivory Coast.  If you've ever been curious about what it actually takes to travel overland through West Africa, this episode gives you the unfiltered picture. You'll walk away with concrete tips on visa strategy, border navigation, shared transport logistics, and honest guidance on when to push through and when to bail and book a flight. Beyond the tactics, Gunnar and Jacqui model what it actually means to travel slowly and patiently through challenging terrain, staying flexible when things go sideways. If you're considering overland travel in West Africa or anywhere similarly complex, this episode cuts through the romance and gives you the real picture.  Have you ever had a travel experience where everything went wrong and it somehow turned into the best story you came home with? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.  Gunnar Garfors is a Norwegian traveler, journalist, and author who became the first person to visit every country in the world twice. He is known for seeking out unusual routes and lesser-visited destinations, often traveling far beyond typical tourist paths. Jacqui Kunz is a full-time traveler who has explored more than 100 countries and was named “World’s Most Intrepid Traveler” in 2023, recognizing her commitment to exploring challenging destinations and traveling well off the beaten path.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Sierra Leone's land border crossing was a surprisingly smooth and welcoming experience  What Freetown is really like to explore, from the historic Cotton Tree to its beaches and police checkpoints  Why the city of Bo is worth a stop, and where to go nearby to see diamond mining  How a fellow passenger buying Coca-Cola at the border kiosk resulted in an overnight stay between two countries in mosquito country  Why Monrovia has a surprisingly American feel and where to stay, eat, and get cash  When it makes sense to give up on overland travel and just book a flight  How paying for an extra seat in a shared taxi can save your sanity, and why the "imaginary bag fee" is a negotiation you can usually win  Why timing your trip just after the rainy season can make roads far worse than expected  How Gunnar ended up in a Norwegian hospital with malaria, and why taking preventatives seriously is not optional  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Gunnar’s website  Gunnar on Instagram  Jacqui on Instagram  iOverlander  Want More?  Overland Travel in West Africa Across 7 Countries (Part 1) with Gunnar Garfors & Jacqui Kunz  5 Surprising Experiences in Africa, How to Transition to a New Career After Travel, and Exploring the African Diaspora With Jay Cameron  Adventure and Conservation - A 6,000 km Tuk-Tuk Journey Through Africa  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2026

What if the secret to a truly meaningful travel experience starts not when you land, but long before you ever pack a bag?  Dr. Kristina Wachter is an award-winning professor, bestselling author, and CEO of Cross-Culture Connections. With over 25 years of experience in cross-cultural communication and education, she developed the Culture SPIN Method, a four-step framework trusted in 54 countries to help individuals and organizations turn cultural differences into genuine human connection.   In this episode, Dr. Wachter walks us through her Culture SPIN Method and how it applies directly to travelers who want richer, more meaningful experiences on the road. She uses real-world business stories, her own travel mishaps, and a live case study with Jason to bring the whole thing to life.  If you've ever shown up somewhere and felt like you were missing something, like you were skimming the surface of a place rather than really getting into it, this conversation is for you.   Dr. Wachter breaks down the cross-cultural communication tips every traveler can actually use, from how to research a culture before you go, to how to recover gracefully when you inevitably get something wrong. Whether you're planning a two-week trip or building a life abroad, there's a lot here to chew on.  What's a cultural moment from your own travels that surprised you or changed the way you see things? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why the Culture SPIN Method starts with looking inward at yourself before you ever look outward at another culture  How to build a personal "cultural Venn diagram" that maps your interests onto a new destination to create real connection opportunities  Why one U.S. executive unknowingly drank $300,000 worth of tea in a single business meeting, and what he did next that actually saved the deal  How a single joke in South Korea cost a businessman millions of dollars in 30 seconds, and what that means for travelers too  Advice for doing genuine cultural research before a trip, including reading fiction, watching local media, and finding primary-source content  Why "winging it" is one of the most common and costly mistakes people make when traveling or moving abroad  How to handle cultural mistakes with humility and recover without losing the connection you're trying to build  Why cultural agility, the ability to pivot and adapt without beating yourself up, is one of the most valuable skills any traveler can develop  What "cultural courage" really means and how acting deliberately outside your comfort zone invites reciprocity and deeper human connection  Why Rick Steves' idea of traveler responsibility hit home for Dr. Wachter  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Cross-Culture Connections  Culture SPIN: Your 4-Step Toolkit for Global Leadership and Cross-Culture Success  Get Dr. Wachter's free Cultural Courage Guide: ⁠info@crosscultureconnections.com⁠  Want More?  7 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad (Or Traveling Long-Term) with Chrishan Wright  Top 10 Challenges Of Living Abroad with BoTik Quest  Building a Life Abroad, Culture Shock, and Big Leaps with Traveling Jackie  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2026

What are you really looking for when you travel?  Sarika Bansal is a travel writer, editor, and former editorial director of Afar magazine. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, and Vice, and she focuses on ethical storytelling, global perspectives, and the deeper impact of travel. She currently lives in Nairobi, Kenya, with her family.  In this episode, Co-host Paige McClanahan talks with Sarika Bansal about how travel shapes us, from living in Kenya to trekking in the Everest region, and how those experiences influence the way we think about travel itself.  This conversation explores what happens when we shift from collecting places to truly engaging with them, and how that shift can completely change the way we experience travel. Sarika shares stories from her own journey, from trekking in the Everest region to building a life in Kenya, and reflects on how stepping outside your comfort zone can reshape your worldview in unexpected ways. We also get into the idea of country counting, the value of returning to places, and how different stages of life influence not just where we go, but how we show up when we get there.  What do you think matters more in travel, the number of places you visit or the depth of your experiences? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Co-host Paige McClanahan is a writer, editor, and former journalist based in Paris, France. As the author of The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel, Paige is passionate about making sure our travels have a positive impact on the world. Get in touch and follow her on Substack.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Sarika’s move to Nairobi reshaped her daily life, pace, and perspective  What drove her to travel writing and how growing up between the U.S. and India influenced her approach to storytelling and travel  What a “questionable” volunteer trip taught her about ethics in travel early on  How trekking in the Everest region while pregnant forced her to slow down  What it’s like exploring quieter trails, monasteries, and local life beyond the Everest “highway”  How climate change is visibly impacting fragile destinations like Everest Base Camp  Why the idea of “country counting” breaks down when you question what it means to visit a place  Sarika’s analogy between travel metrics and personal health, and why both can become misleading  How different life stages, like traveling with kids, change how and where you explore  Unexpected ways to experience Kenya, from DIY safaris to birdwatching and coastal towns  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Castle Forest Lodge  Want More?  Ethical Wildlife Tourism With Kristen Diederich  The World’s Most Traveled Person on the Ethics of Gamifying Travel, Best Regions in the World, and Why To Keep Traveling With Harry Mitsidis of NomadMania  How To Be a “New Tourist,” the Powers and Perils of Tourism, Embracing Tourist Traps, and the Impact of Travel With Paige McClanahan  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2026

If you need some inspiration to make those travel dreams a reality, look no further! We're resharing some of our Transition to Travel episodes this month to help kickstart your plans in 2026. In this series, we interview a guest both before and after their travels (or during if it's long-term), so we can see how it all panned out and how travel has changed them. Sofia and Teague are a couple who left behind demanding careers, including law and personal training, to travel the world for a year. This conversation gives you a full arc of a transition to travel story, from fear and uncertainty to growth, burnout, perspective shifts, and ultimately redefining what “home” and “work” mean. You’ll hear how they saved money quickly, traveled on a budget, worked abroad, navigated relationship dynamics, and what surprised them most along the way. What part of your life might be ready for a transition, even if you don’t know exactly what comes next? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why the hardest part of long-term travel often happens before you ever leave How they saved $25K in a year to fund their trip (and what made it possible) What it actually feels like in the first few weeks on the road, including the uncomfortable parts How their expectations of travel compared to the reality after a full year abroad Why working abroad became the key to slowing down and enjoying the experience What happened when they decided to travel separately for part of the journey How letting go of identity, jobs, and “normal life” reshaped how they see themselves The moment they realized travel had changed their relationship in a lasting way What they didn’t expect about returning home after a year of travel Why knowing you can always leave again changes how you approach life and work And more! Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Vagabonding by Rolf Potts Workaway Couchsurfing Trail Wallet WhatsApp MapsMe Trekking Nepal- Audio Adventure Series Want More? Transition To Travel: From Big Salary to Frugal Travel Life Transition To Travel: Single Mom + 3 Kids Move to Mexico (Jenita's Story) Transition To Travel: Radical Life Change For World Travel w/ Jordan & Tyler Thanks To Our Sponsors Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten. Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2026

Have you ever felt the pull to do something BIG, but weren’t sure if you were “that kind of person?” What if the bravest thing you could do is take the first step before you feel ready?  Lauren Roerick is a long-distance hiker who has traveled more than 12,000 kilometers on foot across countries and continents. Since 2019, she has completed trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, the Colorado Trail, the Hexatrek in France, Te Araroa in New Zealand, and sections of the Transcaucasian Trail. Through her solo journeys and films, she shares stories about resilience, self-trust, and choosing a life shaped by curiosity and courage.  Co-host Dianni Hall talks with Lauren about how to start thru-hiking, what solo trail life actually feels like, and how to move through fear, discomfort, and self-doubt one step at a time.  You’ll hear how Lauren went from zero backpacking experience to long-distance trails by breaking intimidating goals into smaller, doable pieces. She shares what training really matters, what gear is actually worth prioritizing, how trail community works, and why thru-hiking can build self-trust in a way few other experiences can. If you’ve been curious about how to start thru-hiking but feel intimidated, this episode will give you a realistic way in.  What’s one uncomfortable thing you’ve been wanting to try, and what would your version of the first step look like? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, freelancer, and host of the While She’s Away podcast, where she interviews women on their travel experience and expertise to help women live their best lives exploring the world. Learn more about her work here.  Tune In To Learn:  How doing a 100K with only six weeks of training (and despite hating running) changed her confidence  Why Lauren often takes a “how hard can it be” approach to new challenges  How she went from having no backpacking experience to taking on the Pacific Crest Trail  Why breaking big goals into smaller steps makes thru-hiking feel possible  What the mental challenges of solo hiking really look like, and how she works through them  How thru-hiking builds self-trust and strengthens your intuition  What role fear plays on the trail, and how to move through it instead of avoiding it  How to start small, even if it’s just sleeping outside for one night  How to choose your first trail based on your goals, time, and experience  What kind of training and gear actually matter, and what you can skip  How Lauren approaches content creation on trail without losing presence in the moment  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  YouTube  Instagram  Want More?  Hiking the West Highland Way in Scotland with Lynne Nieman  A 2,190+ Mile Mother-Son Adventure: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail after a Decade of Nomadic Family Travel with Jessica and Largo Sueiro  Hiking the Camino De Santiago, Painting Your Travels, Letting Curiosity Rule, and Tiny House Living with Kari Gale  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2026

Do you have dreams of long-term travel? What are you willing to "give up" in pursuit of it?  If you need some inspiration to make those travel dreams a reality, look no further! We're resharing some of our Transition to Travel episodes this month to help kickstart your plans in 2026. In this series, we interview a guest both before and after their travels (or during if it's long-term), so we can see how it all panned out and how travel has changed them.  Becca Hall is a long-term traveler who left a high-paying nonprofit tech job in San Francisco to pursue a life of indefinite travel. We talk about how she saved $30,000 in just a year and a half, why she travels as if she doesn’t have that cushion, and the psychology behind adopting a frugal travel mindset. She also shares what surprised her most after leaving her job, including the months it took to mentally decompress from work stress. Later, we catch up a year and a half into her journey to hear how things actually unfolded, from bartending and working festivals in Australia to building out her own van and redefining what freedom looks like on the road.  What surprised you the most in Becca's journey? What was your biggest takeaway from today's episode? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Becca chose to act like her savings didn’t exist, even after putting away $30,000  How a no-frills travel mindset helped her save money long before she ever left home  What happened when cheap travel started costing her more energy than it was worth  Advice for navigating solo female travel, couchsurfing, and gut-check moments on the road  The surprising emotional hangover that followed quitting a job she was desperate to leave  Why earning less money ended up feeling like a better deal  How festival work and bartending became part of her long-term travel strategy  What pushed her from backpacking burnout into building a van in Australia  The unexpected lessons she learned from creating a home on wheels by herself  Why taking a break can feel strangely difficult when you’re traveling full time  How she decided whether bringing a laptop was freedom or just extra baggage  What indefinite travel taught her about pace, pressure, and finding her own version of flow  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Becca on Instagram  Mint.com  Want More?  Transition To Travel with Lance Wright  Transition To Travel: Radical Life Change For World Travel w/ Jordan & Tyler  Transition To Travel: Single Mom + 3 Kids Move To Mexico (Jenita's Story)  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2026

What happens when talking to strangers while traveling becomes the thing that helps you feel less alone?  Adam Schluter is an award-winning, National Geographic published photographer and writer, and the founder of Hello From A Stranger, a project built around spontaneous travel, portraits, and conversations with people he has just met. Through that project, he has traveled across 21 countries, created thousands of conversations and portraits, given a TEDx talk, published a book based on the work, and is now making a documentary.  In this episode, Adam shares how a period of heartbreak, depression, and isolation pushed him to buy the cheapest ticket he could find and start talking to strangers while traveling. That simple decision eventually turned into Hello From A Stranger, Monday Night Dinners, and a larger mission to help people feel seen.  We get into what travel can open up when you use it intentionally, not just to see a place, but to connect more deeply with the people in it. Adam talks about what he learned from being an introvert in unfamiliar places, why vulnerability worked better than trying to sound polished, and how genuine conversations helped him find purpose when he needed it most. We also talk about how he brought that same spirit home by inviting strangers to dinner, eventually building a recurring community gathering that now draws hundreds of people. If you’ve ever felt lonely, wondered how to meet people more naturally, or wanted to recreate a little of that hostel-kitchen magic back home, there’s a lot in this one.  Trigger warning: This conversation includes honest discussion of depression, suicidal thoughts, and suicide. If you’re struggling, call or text 988 for support.  What would change if you approached one stranger this week with a little more curiosity and a little less fear? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  The breaking point in Adam’s mental health, and how he navigated depression and isolation  Why buying the cheapest flight he could find became the start of an unexpected journey  The importance of creating a framework around his travels and what happened when he started intentionally talking to strangers  Why Adam’s first attempt at approaching strangers failed, and what finally worked  How vulnerability and awkward honesty opened the door to deeper conversations  Why solo travel can still feel lonely, and how to move beyond “ghost mode” while traveling  The story behind Monday Night Dinners, and how inviting strangers over changed his community  Why a simple conversation might matter more than you think  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Hello From A Stranger  Documentary Trailer  Want More?  100 Documentaries Project: Traveling the Globe to Find Extraordinary Humans + Changing the World One Story at a Time with Robin Danehav  How to Be a “Supercommunicator” and Connect with Anyone (At Home or on the Road) with Charles Duhigg + The Best of Baltimore, MD  Bicycling Across the USA Without Money in Search of Human Connection With Daniel Troia  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2026

Dreaming of quitting your job and becoming a digital nomad? Planning a career break to travel the world? If you need some inspiration to make those travel dreams a reality, look no further! We're resharing some of our Transition to Travel episodes this month to help kickstart your plans in 2026. In this series, we interview a guest both before and after their travels (or during if it's long-term), so we can see how it all panned out and how travel has changed them.  Lance Wright is a longtime higher education professional and the creator of The Midlife Crisis Traveler, where he shares the story behind taking a major travel leap in midlife. At the time of this episode, he stepped away from his role at Colorado State University to take a seven-month trip, and that experience led him to rethink work, identity, and how he wanted to live.  This conversation gets into the real stuff behind long-term travel. Lance shares what it was like to ask for time away from a job he actually loved, how he and his wife navigated his decision to travel solo, and what helped him through the lonely stretches on the road. We also talk about minimalism, masculinity, identity, and the surprising clarity he had when he got home.  What chapter in your life might be ready to close so a new one can begin? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Lance finally stopped waiting and committed to a seven-month trip  How he negotiated a leave of absence from a job he genuinely enjoyed  Advice for talking with your spouse about a solo long-term trip  What Albania taught him early on about connection and loneliness  How local tours, cooking classes, and Workaway helped him meet people  Why travel pushed him toward minimalism and a simpler lifestyle  How the trip reshaped his thinking about work, masculinity, and identity  What happened when he came home and realized he needed a new chapter  Why trusting your own travel style matters more than following someone else’s plan  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  The Midlife Crisis Traveler  Tours By Locals  Want More?  Transition To Travel: Radical Life Change For World Travel w/ Jordan & Tyler  Transition To Travel: Single Mom + 3 Kids Move To Mexico (Jenita's Story)  Transition To Travel: From 9-5 To Biking The USA with Joe Ferrara  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2026

What happens when you try overland travel in West Africa across seven countries using only local transport?  Gunnar Garfors is a Norwegian traveler, journalist, and author who became the first person to visit every country in the world twice. He is known for seeking out unusual routes and lesser-visited destinations, often traveling far beyond typical tourist paths. Jacqui Kunz is a full-time traveler who has explored more than 100 countries and was named “World’s Most Intrepid Traveler” in 2023, recognizing her commitment to exploring challenging destinations and traveling well off the beaten path.  In this episode, co-hosts Jacqui and Gunnar share stories from the first leg of their West Africa adventure across seven countries, covering Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Guinea.  They talk about what it’s really like to travel overland in West Africa, from chaotic border crossings and broken buses to incredible landscapes, unexpected friendships, and the patience required to move through the region.  If you’ve ever wondered what travel in this part of the world actually feels like on the ground, this conversation gives you a candid look at the challenges, surprises, and rewards of exploring West Africa slowly.  What kind of travel experiences become possible when you stop rushing and embrace the unpredictability of the journey? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why traveling overland in West Africa requires a completely different mindset about time and planning  How local minibuses work, and why you may be waiting a while to get going  What it’s like traveling upriver in The Gambia to visit River Gambia National Park and see chimpanzees  Why going inland in The Gambia offers a very different experience from the coastal resort areas  How to navigate crossings, visas, and illegal stamp fees that travelers are sometimes asked to pay  What happened when their bus broke down and the driver abandoned it on a remote road  How unexpected delays led to shared rides, new friendships, and memorable moments with local travelers  Why Guinea-Bissau ended up being the biggest surprise and favorite country of the trip  What it’s like traveling through Guinea’s highlands on roads compared to a motocross track  Why slow, overland travel creates deeper connections with people and places along the way  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Gunnar’s website  Gunnar on Instagram  Jacqui on Instagram  Want More?  9 Ways Travel Will Change You + Lessons from Cycling Africa and Visiting 95 Countries with Alex Hennock  5 Surprising Experiences in Africa, How to Transition to a New Career After Travel, and Exploring the African Diaspora With Jay Cameron  Adventure and Conservation - A 6,000 km Tuk-Tuk Journey Through Africa  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2026

Join Caitlin and Janessa in this Remote Roundup as they catch you up on where they’ve been lately, the travel mistakes they’re learning the hard way, and the systems that keep long-term travel from turning into financial and emotional whiplash.  Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world.  In this episode, Caitlin and Janessa share what it’s like spending a season in a southern hemisphere coastal hub and time in a vibrant Latin American capital known for culture, markets, and museums. You’ll get Caitlin’s solo travel hot take and the #1 travel mistake she keeps repeating so you don’t have to, and hear from Janessa on her perfected expense tracking system with tips for self-employed travelers.  What’s one “comfort” you’re keeping in your travel life right now, even if it costs a little more or takes up a little more space? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Considerations for making Cape Town a long-stay base, what to expect in the cultural capital of Mexico City, and a magic town you may want to add to your Mexico itinerary  Why it’s so easy to keep falling for the budget airline trap and more hidden fees you need to be aware of   Why you should always check your entry stamp and never assume you’ve been granted the maximum tourist stay  Janessa’s system for remote work and travel budgeting, including expense tracking apps, annual reviews, tax set-asides, and building a DIY PTO fund  Why Caitlin says she hates solo travel (yet still thinks everyone should do it), and why we need to redefine what “solo” means  A common travel mistake and what it can reveal about the expectations we carry into travel  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Caitlin on Instagram  Janessa on Instagram  TravelSpend  Trabee Pocket   Want More?  Going Nomad with Jason Robinson  Joys of Solo Travel with Manjinder Kang  Remote Roundup: True Costs of Long-Term Travel, Taxes & Borderless Living, an Underrated Productivity Habit, + More (October 2025)  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2026

How would your life change if you decided to take a mini-retirement to travel the world, instead of waiting?  After saving for two years, Helen Lin and her former husband, Tim, put their life into storage, rented out their home, and quit their 9–5 jobs to take off on a mini-retirement traveling around the world. They documented their 25+ month adventure across 26 countries on their YouTube channel, Helen and Tim Travel. Along the way, their relationship was reshaped by the experience, and they ultimately returned home divorced, still grateful for the journey they shared.  In this episode, Helen shares what it actually looked like to plan and take an extended trip as a mini retirement, including the practical runway, the emotional realities, and the unexpected ways long-term travel can impact your relationships.  If you’ve ever dreamed of taking months off to travel, this conversation gives you a grounded look at what it takes to make it happen and what you might learn about yourself along the way. Helen talks about building a financial runway, using local guides to lower the friction of adventure travel, and why campervan trips can be their own logistical puzzle. We also get honest about the parts people rarely post, stress, mental health, and the way constant proximity can intensify relationship dynamics. Plus, Helen shares destination recommendations and the practical systems that helped them stay on the road, including earning 1.5 million credit card points over five years to offset major travel costs.  If you took a mini retirement, what would you want it to help you rethink about your life right now? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Helen thinks “mini retirement” beats waiting for traditional retirement  How increasing your savings rate can create a real travel runway  Advice for choosing destinations around seasonality and the adventures you want most  How guided trips can reduce risk and planning overwhelm for big hikes and outdoor goals  What Helen learned from campervanning in Norway and New Zealand, and what she’d plan differently  How long-term travel can amplify relationship patterns, for better or for worse  Why “wherever you go, there you are” applies to mental health on the road  How to think about boundaries and personal space when traveling with a partner  How Helen and Tim earned about 1.5M points and miles over time to support their travels  What it looks like to come home and build a new chapter after a life-shifting trip  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Instagram  Helen and Tim Travel  Waves of Color  Want More?  How to Win at Travel with “The Points Guy” Brian Kelly  Travel Is Your Birthright: Breaking Free from “Too Broke to Travel”, Travel Hacking (Without Credit Cards), and Solo Travel in 90+ Countries with Shakeemah Smith  How to Plan Your Camino + Going Beyond the Camino Frances (Secret Routes, Donkey Highways, and Spain’s Hidden Village Network) with Shawn and Lainey  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2026

Shakeemah Smith, aka The Passport Abuser, is a solo traveler who has visited 92 countries and helped more than 12,000 people ace their first solo trip. A former social worker from East Orange, New Jersey, she built her platform, Travel Like a Bawse, to teach practical strategies for traveling more affordably and flipping everyday bills into airline miles. She later relocated to Antigua and Barbuda, where she now lives as an expat.  In this episode, we talk about the personal shift that makes solo travel possible, how to travel for free without credit cards, and what it’s really like to move abroad and build a life in the Caribbean.  Shakeemah opens up about calling off her wedding three months before the big day, boarding her first solo flight to Paris in the middle of heartbreak, and realizing she didn’t know how to be alone. What follows is a conversation about self-trust, identity, and deciding to meet the “2.0 version” of yourself instead of waiting for permission.  We also get tactical. Shakeemah shares the exact systems she used to earn airline miles through everyday expenses like gas, groceries, utilities, and dining. And we talk honestly about leaving the U.S., adjusting to island life, and what it means to create safety and belonging on your own terms.  If you’ve been waiting for the right time, the right money, or the right person to travel with, this one might challenge that story.  Who would you become if you stopped waiting and just went? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  How growing up near New York City shaped her worldview and early curiosity about the world  Why ending her engagement forced her to confront her fear of being alone  The insights and exercises that helped Shakeemah move from emotional dependence to independence and from fear to self-trust  Why she believes solo travel is a fast track to trusting your instincts and enjoying your own company  The moment she decided to build a framework to help others take their first solo trip  How she turned 34 countries’ worth of lessons into a structured framework for new travelers  The overlooked airline shopping portals that generate miles without opening new credit cards  How to earn flights from gas, electricity, and everyday bills you’re already paying  The mindset behind “bills to boarding passes” and why it works long term  Why she moved to Antigua and Barbuda during 2020 and what that decision taught her about safety and lifestyle design  The cultural adjustments of living on island time and navigating life as an American expat  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Travel Like a Bawse  Bills to Boarding Passes FREE masterclass  Instagram  Want More?  How to Win at Travel with “The Points Guy” Brian Kelly  Seizing Your Opportunity to Travel, Saving Money as a Solo Traveler, Lessons from a Career Break, and How to Figure Out What You Want (In 60 Seconds) with Leslie McKellar  7 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad (Or Traveling Long-Term) with Chrishan Wright  Thanks To Our Sponsors   Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify  Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places with Atlas Obscura Podcast  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2026

How do you experience the Louvre Museum in a way that actually feels enjoyable, not stressful? And what makes this museum so much more than the Mona Lisa?  Elaine Sciolino is a veteran journalist and author, former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, and the writer of several books about France, including The Seine, The Only Street in Paris, and Adventures in the Louvre. She has lived in Paris for over two decades and brings history, culture, and personal insight into every story.  Elaine joins co-host Paige McClanahan to explore Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum, diving into the history, hidden artworks, and practical strategies for making the most of your visit.  You’ll hear why the Louvre is more than just a building with the Mona Lisa and how its role in French history makes it extraordinary. Elaine demystifies visiting the museum, from understanding crowds and lines to discovering lesser-known works like Titian’s Man With a Glove and what she calls the “undiscovered Mona Lisa.” She shares crowd-beating strategies, best days and times to visit, and surprising places within and around the Louvre where peace and beauty await. You’ll get insider stories on heists, hidden collections, and how even children can be captivated by Egyptology and Islamic art sections that most tourists miss out on.  When you visit a major museum like the Louvre, do you tend to focus on the most famous works, or do you prefer to explore what’s less obvious? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Co-host Paige McClanahan is a writer, editor, and former journalist based in Paris, France. As the author of “The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel”, Paige is passionate about making sure our travels have a positive impact on the world. Learn more about her work here.  Tune In To Learn:  How the Mona Lisa came to dominate the Louvre’s identity, and why that fame is both a blessing and a burden  How the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa helped turn her into a worldwide obsession  The surprising historical roots of the Louvre as a royal palace and revolutionary museum  Lesser-known treasures, “undiscovered” masterpieces, and quieter sections of the Louvre worth seeking out  The unexpected history of France’s crown jewels, including how many were sold off and ended up in the United States  The story behind the recent crown jewels heist and what it reveals about museum security  How the right membership, 1:1 consultation rooms, and alternative museums can transform your experience of Parisian culture  Future plans for the Louvre’s expansion and what that could mean  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Elaine’s website and books  Louvre Museum  Want More?  5 Unexpected Things to Do in Paris and 3 Hidden Gems in France with Paige McClanahan  How To Explore Paris Like a Local, Working on Hospital Ships, and Becoming an Expat on a Mystery Visa With Jay Swanson  9 Best United States Museums and Advice for Fostering Your Creativity with Bob Eckstein  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify  Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places on the Atlas Obscura Podcast  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2026

What are the best hidden gems and local experiences in Ljubljana, Slovenia, that some travelers completely miss?  Sharon Kaufman is a licensed local guide in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and founder of MyLjubljanaTour.com. Originally from Israel, she moved to Slovenia with her family on what was meant to be a one-week vacation and ended up building a new life there. Today, she leads free and paid tours focused on helping travelers experience Ljubljana through local stories, food, and everyday culture.  In this episode, Sharon shares about her spontaneous family move to Ljubljana, how she built a life and business there, and her top hidden gems and local tips for experiencing the city like a resident, not a tourist.  If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia or curious about what makes Ljubljana special, this episode is packed with practical recommendations. Sharon walks us through lesser-known places to explore, affordable ways to get around, unique food experiences, art districts, scenic viewpoints, and easy nature escapes right from the city. You’ll also hear how her perspective as a local guide shapes the way she helps travelers connect more deeply with the city.  Which of these Ljubljana, Slovenia, experiences would you want to explore first? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  How a one-week family vacation unexpectedly turned into a move to Slovenia  What Sharon quickly learned about daily life, culture, and work-life balance in Ljubljana  How intuition and local conversations shaped her decision to stay  How she transitioned from online coaching to becoming a licensed local guide  One of the most affordable and fun ways to explore the city  Where to get sweeping views of Ljubljana without crowds or ticket lines  A hidden market area with local food and unique vending machines that most visitors walk right past  A hidden alley filled with public art, symbolism, and a secret pub  An alternative art district shaped by activism, creativity, and nightlife  A cafe locals love for great coffee, healthy food, and a relaxed vibe  An easy forest hike just minutes from the city center, plus what to eat at the top  The best times of year to visit Ljubljana and where to go beyond the city  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  MyLjubljanaTour.com  Want More?  Top 10 Iceland Hidden Gems (Highlands, Hot Springs, and Hidden Canyons) + Building a New Life Abroad with Jewells Chambers from All Things Iceland  7 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad (Or Traveling Long-Term) with Chrishan Wright  Top 10 Reasons to Love Living Abroad with Botik Quest  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify  Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places on the Atlas Obscura Podcast  Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2026

Kim Frank is an award‑winning writer, multimedia storyteller, and explorer whose work has appeared in The Explorers Journal, Sidetracked, and Earth Island Journal. She is a Fellow of The Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society. Kim’s latest book, Elephants in the Hourglass: A Journey of Reckoning and Hope Along the Himalaya, reflects her deep engagement with the human elephant conflict in northeastern India.   In this episode, Kim joins me to talk about her personal and professional evolution from mom and fiction writer to author and storyteller, tackling one of the world’s lesser‑known environmental crises: the human‑elephant conflict.  This conversation moves beyond travel storytelling to explore deep themes of identity, fear, and the bravery required to act. Kim shares how she navigated self‑doubt, embraced vulnerability, and found strength through community. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of conservation work, especially the nuanced human‑elephant relationship in the Eastern Himalaya. You’ll also learn how storytelling and openness can bridge cultural gaps and inspire action for coexistence. Specific personal stories, like balancing motherhood with fieldwork, and philosophical reflections on the space between are woven throughout.  What’s one fear you’re holding that might be the gateway to your next big chapter, and how might acknowledging two truths about it help you move forward? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  How Kim’s childhood and family travels shaped her perspective on exploration and meaning  Why Elephants in the Hourglass became both a conservation story and personal memoir  What Kim learned about fear, confidence, and taking action in big life transitions  The role of mentorship and community in pursuing meaningful work  How cultural assumptions about motherhood impacted Kim’s work and identity  What the space between means and why it matters in our relationship to nature  The complexity of human‑elephant conflict and why simple narratives fall short  How language and framing influence conservation and public perception  Why holding opposing truths is essential to peaceful coexistence  Practical takeaways on curiosity, empathy, and openness in travel and life  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Kim’s website  Instagram  Elephants in the Hourglass  Wildlife Trust of India  Want More?  Living in Ecuador, Indigenous Communities, Rainforest Conservation, and Cultural Experiences With Photographer Mark Fox  100 Documentaries Project: Traveling the Globe to Find Extraordinary Humans + Changing the World One Story at a Time with Robin Danehav  Myanmar’s Secret Railways: Uncovering Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Oppression with Clare Hammond  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify  Atlas Obscura Podcast - Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2026

What happens when you let curiosity guide your travel experiences?  John McKenzie is a long-time traveler and curious explorer who shares stories and insights from off-the-beaten-track destinations around the world. Through his content and curated CuriosiTrips, he aims to expand others’ sense of what’s possible by encouraging a more curious, open approach to travel. He’s also a new contributor to National Geographic, writing the sections on Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia for The Traveler’s Atlas of the World.  In this episode, John and I sit down in person to explore the concept of curiosity as a travel compass, why some destinations gain reputations that don’t match reality, and how community and mindset shape meaningful journeys.  Travel is often framed around checklists and highlights, but John reframes it as a curiosity‑driven practice that enriches both travel and everyday life. You’ll hear how to exercise your curiosity muscle, embrace spontaneity, and responsibly explore destinations often overlooked or misunderstood. From challenging trips like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Syria to cultural discoveries and approachable recommendations like Malawi and Cuba, this conversation offers both a practical perspective and philosophical encouragement for travelers of all experience levels.  What is one place you’ve always been curious about but haven’t yet visited, and what’s holding you back? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  How boredom and routine kick-started John’s curiosity and exploration  What approaching travel with openness rather than rigidity can uncover  Why connecting with others who’ve done what you want to do helps normalize the goal  How travel to “dangerous” or misunderstood places can be both safe and rewarding  The mindset shift from chasing destinations to pursuing meaningful experiences  How John defines “meaningful” in his own travel, and why that matters more than ticking boxes  Examples of destinations that surprised him and recommendations for your own curious travels  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  John’s website  Instagram  National Geographic Traveler’s Atlas of the World  Extraordinary Travel Festival  Want More?  7 Pro Tips For Traveling In Dangerous Countries w/ Bjorn Palsson  Independent Travel as a Female in Afghanistan, Hitchhiking Iraq, and Ex-Pat Life in Sudan with Jacquelyn Kunz  The World’s Most Traveled Person on the Ethics of Gamifying Travel, Best Regions in the World, and Why To Keep Traveling With Harry Mitsidis of NomadMania  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify  Atlas Obscura Podcast - Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

Want to hear bold ideas and big solutions for our planet? We have been listening to Alex Honnold as he hosts Planet Visionaries, in partnership with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each week, Alex spotlights innovators who are not just imagining a better future but actively creating it. Go check it out and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

What does queer travel in the US look like beyond the big cities? And what can all travelers learn from the LGBTQ+ travel experience?  Chase Vondran is a full-time travel creator and writer based in Chicago who helps transgender and gender-diverse travelers explore safely while advocating for greater inclusion in the travel industry. After an eight-year nomadic journey spanning 20+ countries, they now focus their work on queer travel, small queer towns, and inclusive travel guides.  In this episode, co-host Dianni Hall sits down with Chase to talk about queer travel in the U.S., exploring small queer towns and gayberhoods, and understanding the realities and joys of traveling as a trans person.  This episode offers a rare glimpse into queer communities thriving outside of major cities and highlights unexpected destinations where queer people not only exist but also flourish. Chase shares personal stories from their travels as a trans person, the differences in how the world treats them before and after transition, and what travelers should consider when seeking inclusive spaces. You’ll discover resources, tips for finding queer communities, and the emotional power of feeling seen. Whether you’re a queer traveler, an ally, or curious about inclusive travel, this conversation expands how we think about travel, identity, and belonging.  How has travel helped you better understand experiences different from your own? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Zero To Travel co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, and host of the While She’s Away podcast. Learn more about her work here.  Tune In To Learn:  How travel gave Chase space to explore queerness and identity away from home  What it feels like to find queer community for the first time while traveling  Why places like Puerto Vallarta have become historic hubs for queer travelers  How the absence of visible queer community can change a travel experience  How queer history, artist communities, and other factors have helped shape small inclusive towns across the U.S.  Why destinations like Saugatuck, Michigan and Eureka Springs, Arkansas defy expectations  How Chase’s travel experiences shifted after coming out as trans and   What safety, visibility, and respect look like when traveling as a trans person and how it differs from traveling as a woman  Why small, community-driven queer spaces matter just as much as big cities  How to find queer community anywhere using apps, events, and local businesses  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Dianni on Instagram  Chase on Instagram  Everywhere Is Queer  Quouch  Want More?  Choosing a One-Way Ticket Over a Master’s Degree + Lessons From 6 Years of Evolving Travel with Dianni Hall  Top 7 Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers and Finding Your People Around the World with LGBTQ+ Travel Expert Alicia Valenski  LGBTQ+ Travel and Making A Difference with Ravi Roth  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

Want to hear bold ideas and big solutions for our planet? We have been listening to Alex Honnold as he hosts Planet Visionaries, in partnership with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each week, Alex spotlights innovators who are not just imagining a better future but actively creating it. Go check it out and hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

Want to hear bold ideas and big solutions for our planet? We have been listening to Alex Honnold as he hosts Planet Visionaries, in partnership with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each week, Alex spotlights innovators who are not just imagining a better future but actively creating it. Go check it out and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

What does it look like when travel becomes more than just a trip, but a lifelong evolution of identity, choices, and community? Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, podcaster, and podcast producer. She’s the host of While She’s Away, a podcast highlighting stories and advice from women travelers around the world. After choosing a one-way flight to India instead of enrolling in graduate school, Dianni spent six years traveling full-time across 30+ countries while building a freelance career and exploring what it means to find home. In this episode, we explore how Dianni’s travel lifestyle has changed over time, from solo backpacking and volunteering abroad to building a freelance career and eventually settling into a home base in Brooklyn. Dianni shares specific lessons from various phases of travel, including navigating her first solo trip, volunteering in an ashram, adjusting to slow travel, and balancing travel with long-term stability. She offers honest reflections on managing anxiety while traveling, the importance of community, and what it means to reimagine one's identity when traveling full-time comes to an end. What’s one travel experience, big or small, that changed the way you see the world, and how did it shape who you are today? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How religious/spiritual curiosity shaped her decision to go to India What she learned from living and volunteering at an ashram What it felt like to “accidentally” become a full-time nomad and how teaching English in Spain opened doors to long-term travel and career growth Advice for navigating anxiety before and during travel, and how reframing your inner dialogue can make all the difference What solo travel taught her about confidence, community, and intuition The difference between feeling “at home” somewhere and choosing to build a life there Why returning to familiar places revealed a deeper need for belonging and community What drew her to Brooklyn, and how queer community became a central part of her rooted life And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter While She’s Away Podcast Dianni on Instagram Bar Lunatico Boyfriend Co-Op Want More? Solo Traveling Europe and “The Stans” in a Campervan with Maria Glaser Joys of Solo Travel with Manjinder Kang Seizing Your Opportunity to Travel, Saving Money as a Solo Traveler, Lessons from a Career Break, and How to Figure Out What You Want (In 60 Seconds) with Leslie McKellar Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2026

Want to hear bold ideas and big solutions for our planet? We have been listening to Alex Honnold as he hosts Planet Visionaries, in partnership with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each week, Alex spotlights innovators who are not just imagining a better future but actively creating it. Go check it out and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2026

Want to hear bold ideas and big solutions for our planet? We have been listening to Alex Honnold as he hosts Planet Visionaries, in partnership with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each week, Alex spotlights innovators who are not just imagining a better future but actively creating it. Go check it out and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2026

What are the top travel destinations for 2026 that need to be on your radar? Lyn Hughes is the founding editor of Wanderlust Magazine and a leading voice in adventure and cultural travel journalism. She’s spent decades curating destination guides, championing responsible travel, and sharing stories that inspire deeper exploration. I catch up with Lyn to explore her curated list of the best places to travel in 2026 and why you should prioritize these destinations for the new year or near future. Lyn shares standout destinations including remote wilderness routes, under‑the‑radar cultural hubs, and wildlife-rich regions. She shares personal stories, explains why there is urgency around some of these locations, and gives insight into how we can engage more meaningfully and responsibly when we visit. If you're thinking ahead to your next big trip, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and some surprising ideas. Which types of destinations spark your imagination right now? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Wanderlust creates future‑looking destination lists and how they’re curated How to balance adventure, accessibility, and sustainability in trip planning Advice for travelers seeking lesser‑known but rewarding places What Lyn looks for in a truly special travel experience How one rugged road trip remains one of her all‑time favorites Why wildlife travel can reshape how we see the world How curated content and AI might impact your next travel search What role community‑based tourism is playing in new travel trends Personal travel picks from a legendary travel editor And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Wanderlust Magazine Wanderlust: Off the Page podcast on Apple, Spotify Want More? Top 7 Travel Trends for 2025 with Lyn Hughes Top 10 Places We’re Dying To Visit That We’ve Never Been 14 Best of “The Best Places to Travel in 2025” (Jason’s Picks) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2026

Tune in for a quick update on what's to come on the Zero To Travel podcast in 2026! Happy New Year, my friend. Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2025

My wife, Anne-Dorthe, and I are together on the pod to share all about Christmas traditions in Norway and the United States. You'll hear what it's like to taste Julebrus for the first time, see who will win the theoretical battle between Santa Claus and Julenisse, discover the three main traditional dishes in different parts of Norway, get a special Norwegian treat from my wife, and so much more! Can you appreciate your traditions as if you were a traveler seeing and experiencing them for the first time? Have a wonderful Holiday wherever you are, my friend! *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. What are your Holiday traditions? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Resources: Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

Looking for more creative and fun ways to reflect on your year and plan for the next one? Join Caitlin and Janessa in this year-end Remote Roundup to explore personal reflections, unexpected lessons, goal-setting alternatives, and favorite travel moments from 2025.  Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world. Caitlin and Janessa talk about identity, growth, community, habits, and how their remote lives are evolving as they plan for the new year. You'll walk away with insights and practical ideas for reflecting on your own year and setting more intentional goals, whether you're traveling full-time, working remotely, or simply ready for a reset in 2026. What’s a moment from your 2025 that made you feel most yourself? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The top Zero To Travel episodes for 2025 and why they’re worth a re-listen 5 non-cliche reflection questions to look back on your year with more depth Alternative intention-setting ideas for 2026 that go beyond resolutions and “word of the year” trends What the “new place, new me” trap is and how it can quietly derail goals for travelers Fun travel superlatives from their year, from best coffee culture and unexpected destinations to top meals and views And much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Caitlin on Instagram Janessa on Instagram Want More? 14 Best of “The Best Places to Travel in 2025” (Jason’s Picks) Top 10 Reasons to Love Living Abroad with Botik Quest The 5 Best Hacks of “All the Hacks”: Travel, Money & Life Optimization with Chris Hutchins How to Navigate Transitions and Design Your Life (Without the BS) with Lauren Handel Zander Profiling Every UN Nation (In Alphabetical Order), Travel through Geography, Lessons from 10 Years of YouTube Success with Paul Barbato of Geography Now Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2025

What happens when you step out of your life for a year to live, work, and connect in a completely different culture? Don Jenkins is a 27-year high-school teacher from Washington state who spent a full academic year in Norway through the Fulbright Roving Scholar Program. Based in Oslo but constantly on the move, he traveled the country visiting schools and giving workshops on American history and government, reaching thousands of students along the way. This episode explores Don’s journey as a cultural ambassador, educator, and traveler. We talk about the surprising differences between Norwegian and American school systems, how living abroad shifts your view of home, and what it takes to build connection across cultures - whether you’re in a classroom, a sauna, or a sawed-off tuk tuk. Whether or not you’re a teacher, Don’s experience is full of lessons on curiosity, communication, and how to embrace the unfamiliar. From practical travel tips to deeper reflections on history, education, and societal values, this episode is a reminder of how much growth comes from stepping outside your bubble. What’s one lesson you’ve picked up while traveling that changed how you see your home? I'd love to hear about your experience, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Don took a sabbatical to teach abroad in Norway for a year How his “roving teacher” job works and the logistics of living in Oslo while visiting 30+ schools Surprising insights about Norwegian classrooms, school culture, and community values How to implement cultural lessons at home, even if you’re not a teacher What it means to be a “mini ambassador” and have real conversations about your home country Budget-friendly tips for traveling in Norway, including food hacks and local apps The role of curiosity in building connections while traveling Why honest history matters, and what happens when we don’t teach the full story How being away from family for so long can be hard and insight on managing travel fears And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Don on Instagram American-Scandinavian Foundation Fulbright Roving Scholars Too Good To Go App Want More? Cracking the Cultural Code, Ethical Travel To Indigenous Areas, & Life in Norway With Lorelou Desjardins Hidden Norway: 7 Off The Beaten Path Gems You’ll Love, Popular Norwegian Concepts Worth Stealing, Trekking In Bhutan, & Living At The Crossroads of Magic & Science w/ Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway Walking the World: A Deeper Exploration of Culture and Community with Chris Arnade Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2025

Which European dish is so good you’d plan a trip around it? Kenny Dunn is the founder of Eating Europe, a food tour company that has guided over 400,000 travelers to the best local eats in 17 of Europe’s greatest cities since 2011. In this episode, Kenny shares 11 European dishes you must try before you die, including cultural context, restaurant tips, and personal stories from his years of travel.  Kenny explains how each dish connects to its place and people, how everyday locals enjoy them, and shares his go-to spots for trying them. To add a little flavor, we also pair each dish with a movie or TV show to turn your meal into an experience if you want to make these at home! Which dish would you travel for or try to recreate at home? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The famous British snack that was originally invented as a travel food How a Spanish street food became a spicy, deep-fried bomb of flavor The story behind a French sandwich that inspired a monster version in Portugal How one Roman specialty turns a humble vegetable into something unforgettable Where to find the prettiest open-faced sandwich in Scandinavia The sandwich Anthony Bourdain called “a monument to excess” How a single dish became the pride of Prague’s holiday tables What to expect when you try Florence’s most local sandwich Why a herring might be best enjoyed standing up in Amsterdam Tips for cooking a few of these at home (and when not to bother) And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Eating Europe Eating Europe on Instagram Want More? Top 8 Food Hacks in Europe: How to Find Authentic Culinary Experiences on the Old Continent with Kenny Dunn Top 10 European Food Experiences With Kenny Dunn From Eating Europe Sicily Uncovered: Street Food, Wine Regions, and the Art of Slowing Down Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2025

How do you choose where to live, what to do, and when to go home when your life is fully remote? Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world. In this episode, they’re reporting in from two wildly different corners of the world with stories, struggles, and insights about what it actually looks like to live and work abroad right now, plus a practical holiday wish list. Caitlin and Janessa open up about the hard choices digital nomads face around holidays, family, and missing big life events. They talk about the growing trend of unexpected remote careers and explore how people are adapting traditional jobs to fit this lifestyle, a conversation about the myth of the laptop-on-the-beach image that won't die, and more.  What has been your biggest struggle being away from home when you travel? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Bangkok’s scale, café culture, and mall scene work so well for remote living How Oaxaca brings together community, creativity, and tradition, especially around Day of the Dead How Caitlin pulled off a cheap(ish) last-minute flight to Asia with an airport transfer hack What it’s really like to grieve major life moments from abroad, and insight into deciding when going home makes sense Thoughts on how to take traditional skills and repurpose them into location-independent careers An honest take on the “laptop on the beach” stereotype (and why it’s still everywhere) A holiday gift guide with digital nomads in mind Two travel fail stories that involve passports, bowel movements, and a nearly missed bus in the Italian countryside And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Caitlin on Instagram Janessa on Instagram Want More? Remote Roundup: True Costs of Long-Term Travel, Taxes & Borderless Living, an Underrated Productivity Habit, + More (October 2025) Building a Travel Lifestyle: Digital Nomadism, Slow Travel, Exploring Latin America with Kyle Cohenour From Expat to Digital Nomad: Finding Your Travel Rhythm, Balancing Burnout, and the Digital Nomad Lifestyle with Kristin Wilson Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2025

What are the most difficult countries to visit, and why do some require months of effort just to get in? Gunnar Garfors is an author, journalist, and the first person to travel to every country in the world twice. Jacqui Kunz was named “World’s Most Intrepid Traveler” in 2023 and is also well on her way to visiting every country in the world. In this Zero To Travel Host Collective episode, Gunnar and Jacqui go through ten of the world’s most difficult countries to visit from a visa and access standpoint. Gunnar and Jacqui share their personal experiences and insights navigating the world’s hardest-to-enter countries, especially from the perspective of American and Norwegian passports. You’ll learn not just where the access is difficult, but why - whether it’s politics, reciprocity, red tape, or safety concerns - and what it says about global mobility. They also explore the ethical side of “ticking countries off the list” and how that mindset can warp the meaning of travel. If you were to visit one country that you know is extremely hard to get into, which country would it be and why? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why your passport dramatically affects your ability to visit certain countries How political tensions between nations influence visa rules and travel bans Advice for Americans trying to enter countries that officially don’t allow them Why some countries like Turkmenistan or Libya require government approval before you can even apply What Gunnar did after being rejected six times for a visa to Turkmenistan How Jackie’s educational work raised red flags with the Iranian authorities How to travel ethically to countries with problematic governments or ongoing conflicts Tips for minimizing risk and maximizing cultural exchange in restricted destinations What it really means to have “been” somewhere (and who gets to decide that) And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Gunnar’s website Gunnar on Instagram Jacqui on Instagram Want More? Independent Travel as a Female in Afghanistan, Hitchhiking Iraq, and Ex-Pat Life in Sudan with Jacquelyn Kunz How To Get Off The Beaten Track with Gunnar Garfors Traveling the Equator and Polar Circle (Top 5 Countries to Visit) + How Climate Change Impacts Locals with Gunnar Garfors Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2025

IMPORTANT: This episode was recorded before the conflict in Sudan, and Jacqui has since left the country. For additional information and ways to support the Sudanese people, you can visit eyesonsudan.net and follow Jacqui on Instagram. Why would someone choose to travel to the world’s most dangerous places? Today I’m joined by Jacquelyn Kunz, the first female to travel independently through Afghanistan after the Taliban regained control. In this episode, Jacqui shares some of the toughest moments from her time in Afghanistan, what led her to move to Sudan, and her life as an expat. We also talk about what it was like to hitchhike in Iraq and how these experiences have shifted her outlook on life. *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. Do you consider yourself a risk-taker? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you will share them by sending me an audio message. Tune in to Learn: What Jacqui considers the ultimate traveler fantasy Her favorite places to visit and what attracts her to more extreme foreign destinations Insight into the experience of being a woman in Sudan How Government censorship and surveillance impact a society Why Jacqui chose to move to Sudan (and her family's reaction) Life in Sudan with political instability, and how she fits into society Why a foreign woman is considered an "honorary man," and how this impacts her relationship with Sudanese women How these experiences changed her perspective on life and relating to others Insight into finding the courage to take a different path Jacqui's best advice for safety and her thoughts on being a risk-taker And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Learn more about the conflict in Sudan Connect with Jacqui on Instagram Listen to Laundry House on Spotify and follow us on Instagram Want More? 7 Pro Tips For Traveling In Dangerous Countries w/ Bjorn Palsson Travel In The Middle East with Genevieve Hathaway What Is “Happiness”? Discovering Meaning On The Silk Road w/ Will Rickard Thanks to our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2025

What does it really take to build a travel lifestyle from scratch, especially if you’re starting later in life or managing a serious medical condition? Jason Robinson is the founder of The Nomad Experiment and author of The Beginner Traveler’s Guide. After digging out of debt and selling his home, he now travels full-time while living with type 1 diabetes.  Jason joins me to explore his updated beginner travel guide, how the nomad lifestyle has become his way of life, and how we can all learn to travel more intentionally, even when the path to getting started looks different for everyone. This episode is packed with real talk and actionable advice for anyone looking to start or deepen a travel-centered lifestyle. Jason shares the exact mindset shifts and tactical steps that helped him go from zero international travel to spending more than half the year abroad. You’ll learn why co-living can be a better fit than hostels, how to realistically assess your finances before you leap, and what it takes to travel while managing something as serious as type-1 diabetes.  We also get into the harder stuff - burnout, identity, letting go of expectations -and why treating travel like an experiment may be the most freeing approach of all. What’s one small step you can take this month toward your travel‑oriented life? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why getting your passport is the easiest first move toward travel How to start travelling from exactly where you are (not waiting for “perfect”) Why choosing the right accommodation style (hostel vs co‑living) matters for long‑term travel How to build a financial base that supports a travel lifestyle—not traps you The conversation you need to have with friends or family about your priorities How to recognise and navigate travel burnout or lifestyle shifts Mindset tips for travelling with a medical condition, or any “extra” in your life Where Jason wants to go back (and why slower travel matters) How to frame your worst‑case/best‑case list so fear doesn’t hold you back The one mindset change that turns travel planning into travel living And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Jason on Instagram The Nomad Experiment Type 1 Diabetes Travel Learn to Travel Basics Want More? Going Nomad With Jason Robinson Life As An Experiment w/ Jason Robinson Rock Bottom To A Life of Travel w/ Francis Nayan Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2025

Need some inspiration for your upcoming travels? Gunnar Garfors is the first person to travel to every country in the world not once, but TWICE. As the ultimate travel expert, he’s with us to share his list of the best places to visit before they get too popular. You’ll hear about seven out-of-the-ordinary destinations spanning all seven continents to help you plan for the coming year and beyond. Whether it’s beach life, mountain hikes, big cities, or relaxing getaways, there’s something on the list for everyone. We’ll also talk about his upcoming project, share plenty of stories, and he’ll let us in on a fun travel concept you’ll want to steal and use with your friends. *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. Where are you headed first? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The ROI of travel and why you should explore out-of-the-box destinations What makes this overlooked part of this Caribbean island worth a visit  How to have an authentic South American river adventure An African country ideal for extreme sports and coastal wildlife The vastly underestimated European country that has something for everyone A fun way to plan trips with your friends (You’ll want to steal this!)  An affordable, diverse, and mountainous country along the Old Silk Road An underestimated Asian country rich in culture, innovation, and amazing food (It’s his favorite big city in the world!) A small but incredible Pacific island kingdom for an alternative to Fiji His bonus destination for an affordable Maldives experience Gunnar’s new book and his thoughts on climate change And so much more Resources: Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Visit Gunnar’s website Follow him on Instagram and TikTok Listen to his podcast Want More? Visiting Every County In The World…TWICE! With Gunnar Garfors How To Get Off The Beaten Track with Gunnar Garfors Part One: The First Person to Travel to Every Country Without Flying (In a Single Journey) With Thor Pedersen Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2025

Is night train travel making a comeback? Trains have long been seen as a romantic or nostalgic way to explore a destination, but what if it could also be the most practical, comfortable, and climate-friendly way? Thibault Constant is a French train enthusiast turned entrepreneur who built a following of 300k on his YouTube channel, Simply Railways. He’s the author of Trains de Nuit and co-founder of Nox, a new sleeper train company aiming to revolutionize overnight travel across Europe with affordable private rooms. In this episode, host Paige McClanahan speaks with Thibault about the rising demand for night trains in Europe, the design and mission behind his upcoming sleeper train company, and why privacy, practicality, and sustainability are reshaping how we move through the world. You’ll hear why a new wave of travelers are choosing overnight rail, how the travel experience shifts when you’re able to rest, reflect, and arrive ready to go, and what it takes to build a better sleeper train from the ground up. Thibault shares the key barriers that have kept night trains from breaking through in recent decades, and how his company, Nox, is working to overcome them with smart design and realistic pricing. Whether you’re curious about slow travel, concerned about flying’s climate impact, or just want to know what it’s like to wake up in Sicily after sleeping on a train ferry, this episode offers both practical insights and pure travel inspiration. If you could take one of Thibault’s recommended overnight train journeys tomorrow, which would you choose and why? We’d love to hear your thoughts, and hope you’ll share by sending an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How growing up in northern France inspired Thibault’s lifelong love of trains Why he started his YouTube channel, and how it became a full-time job What led him to co-found Nox, a new sleeper train company launching in 2027 Why most night trains today fail to deliver on sleep, and how privacy changes everything The real reason night trains declined in Europe, and what brought them back How the climate crisis is pushing more travelers to rethink short-haul flights What makes overnight train travel a win–win for comfort, convenience, and carbon Thibault’s top 3 night train routes in Europe, and his favorite long-haul ride in North America And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Paige McClanahan’s website Paige on Instagram Thibault on Instagram Simply Railway YouTube Trains de Nuit Nox Sleeper Trains Want More? Sustainable Travel 101 (How to Be A Better Traveler) With Richard Hammond Train Travel Around The World w/ Mark Smith World Tour for Climate Change: Hitchhiking, Biking, and Low-Carbon Travel With Megan Routbort Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly⁠ - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2025

How is tourism impacting communities, and what can we do about it? Paige McClanahan joins me to talk about the dualities of the tourism industry and how we can have deeper travel experiences while benefiting the world. Paige McClanahan is the author of The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel. She is an American journalist based in France and a regular contributor to The New York Times, where she reports on the impacts of tourism. She is also the host of The Better Travel Podcast, which aims to make sure that our travels have a positive impact on the world.  We talk about the evolution of tourism as context to how it got to where it is today, the consequences of travel on local communities (good and bad) and what we can do about it, and insights into how we can become what Paige calls a “new tourist.” She also shares a behind-the-scenes look at how she wrote this book and used her professional journalism skills to her advantage. *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. How will you become a “new tourist?” I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The evolution of tourism and travel and why it’s so complicated How guidebooks and social media have shaped the industry The complexities of influencers and why we are all influencers in some way How destinations can minimize the negative impact of tourism and promote responsible travel The fantasy of tourist traps and how tourism affects the quality of life for residents How she approaches serendipitous moments and genuine connections as an author The impact of AI on the future of tourism Insights on navigating digital nomadism and its effects on residents And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Visit Paige’s website Get a copy of her book, The New Tourist Listen to The Better Travel Podcast Follow her on Instagram Check out the book Do Travel Writers Go to Hell? Take a MasterClass Transcribe with Trint Want More? Is Your Summer Vacation Destroying The Planet? w/ Seth Kugel Avoiding The Instagram Trap w/ Kashlee Conscious Travel Mindset With Robin Greenfield Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2025

Want to explore volcanoes, wine valleys, remote wilderness, and vibrant indigenous cultures, all in one country? Why not make Chile your next adventure? Steph Dyson is a travel journalist, guidebook author, and founder of the website Worldly Adventurer. She has spent nearly a decade living and travelling across Latin America, including three years in Chile, and is the author of Moon Chile With Patagonia & Rapa Nui (Easter Island). In today’s episode, we explore Chile’s incredible geographic and cultural diversity through seven hidden‑gem destinations, with stories and advice for exploring them responsibly. Steph breaks down her favorite hidden corners of Chile, from wild Patagonia to volcano climbs, ancient mummies, and the vibrant island culture of Chiloé. You’ll hear tips for hitchhiking the Carretera Austral, visiting Indigenous communities with cultural respect, and building a flexible mid-range travel budget in Chile. We also talk about how to approach destinations more consciously as travelers, not just tourists.  Plus, you're going to hear Part 2 of the Best in Travel Tech series! What’s the one hidden gem you’ve discovered in your travels (or want to discover) that changed how you think about a place? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How a burned-out teacher bought a one-way ticket to Bolivia and ended up building a new life across Latin America What makes the Carretera Austral a must‑visit, and why she recommends you hitchhike How Chile’s wine valleys offer cultural and culinary depth beyond the typical vineyard experience How the Mapuche people in the south of Chile maintain ancient traditions, and how travellers can engage respectfully How to choose when to travel in Patagonia to avoid crowds and still get wild‑land experiences How to climb a volcano near Pucón and what to expect (terrain, season, logistics) Why a remote island like Chiloé delivers cultural and natural surprises that few visit Advice for budget mid‑range travellers in Chile: transport, accommodation, local costs, and how to balance comfort with adventure And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Get your Being Box Stephdyson.com Worldly Adventurer Moon Chile: With Patagonia & Rapa Nui Worldpackers Workaway Pangae App Meetup Want More? Top 7 Grand European Journeys With Lucas Peters Peru’s Hidden Gems, Why NOT to Hike the Inca Trail + Amazing (Less Crowded) Alternatives with Heather Jasper Building a Travel Lifestyle: Digital Nomadism, Slow Travel, Exploring Latin America with Kyle Cohenour Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2025

What tools and routines make the biggest difference for nomads? What really drives down your cost of living abroad, and what are you giving up to get there?  On this month’s episode, Caitlin and Janessa swap stories on budgeting, daily tradeoffs, and what it takes to feel comfortable in constant motion. You'll hear their thoughts on shifting priorities, overlooked productivity habits, tax residency trends, and why your “normal” might not be so normal elsewhere. Remote Roundup is a new monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world. What’s something you’ve either given up (or refused to give up) to make remote work and travel sustainable for you? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Janessa’s experience traveling and working on Vancouver Island A simple travel item that can seriously improve your remote work (that we often ignore), and how small comforts can make or break your productivity What to consider before making borderless tax or residency moves The hidden tradeoffs behind minimalist living on the road Why your priorities might shift the longer you live as a nomad What remote workers are getting wrong about cost-of-living savings abroad The unexpected mindset shift that happens when you stop “vacationing” and start living Which everyday habits feel surprisingly hard (or freeing) to give up Cultural quirks that can challenge what you thought was “normal” One playful question that reveals way more about someone than you’d expect (steal this!) And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Caitlin on Instagram Janessa on Instagram Want More? Remote Roundup: Intentional Travel, Nomadding Berlin, Work Setups, Co-Living Trends, Overhyped Destinations (September 2025) How To Find Balance and Be Productive Working Remotely w/ Liam Martin from Running Remote Top 11 Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visas for Relocating (2025 Edition) + Where to Consider Relocating (And Why) with Tim Marting from Citizen Remote Thanks To Our Sponsors Moon Travel Guides: USA National Parks Hiking - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order of Moon’s latest book and other guides. Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 October 2025

What would your travels look like if you planned them around the most epic, life-shaping active adventures you could dream up? Heidi Niklaus is the founder of Heidi Runs Abroad LLC, where she helps travelers, expats, and digital nomads maintain their wellness routines on the road. With a background in higher education at Rutgers University, she pivoted into fitness instruction, became a long‑term traveler, and is now planning her move to Sofia, Bulgaria. In this episode, Heidi shares how a divorce, a career pause, and a couchsurfing connection sparked a global lifestyle. She also shares her active travel and fitness adventure bucket list, ranging from volcano sunrises and glacier kayaking to a marathon under the midnight sun. You’ll hear how Heidi traded structure for uncertainty and why she now helps travelers maintain their wellness routines on the road. She shares practical insights on how to blend movement with exploration, and why fitness doesn’t have to take a back seat just because you're abroad. Heidi’s bucket list and personal stories will challenge how you think about travel and inspire you to create your own list of active travel adventures. What’s one adventure you’ve always thought about doing, big or small, that would get you moving and exploring? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How couchsurfing and solo travel unlocked a new chapter for her Why fitness wasn’t always part of Heidi’s life, and how she made that shift Advice on staying active and finding the balance while traveling (even on “vacation”) • The difference between intentional exercise and being physically active while traveling Why labeling your trip a “runcation” or “active adventure” actually matters The seven fitness adventures on her bucket list (plus three bonus picks) How movement during travel doesn’t need to be a “workout” Nutrition tips to balance indulgence and wellness abroad How to start your own bucket list to help you prioritize your travels And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Being Box Heidi’s website Instagram VoiceMap walking tours Peaks of the Balkans Want More? Top 10 Health and Wellness Destinations (The Best Places To Live In The World) with Nina Butler Staying Healthy and Stress-Free While Traveling With Kirsten Pontius Greatest Hits: How Travel Can Improve Your Mental Health With Gilad Gamliel Thanks To Our Sponsors Moon Travel Guides: USA National Parks Hiking - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order of Moon’s latest book and other guides. Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

What if the best hikes in America’s national parks aren’t the ones you’ve already heard of? Jason Frye is a travel and outdoor writer who grew up in the mountains of West Virginia and now lives in North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. His latest book with Moon Travel Guides, USA National Parks Hiking: The Top 100 Trails, covers 100 hikes across 40 U.S. national parks. Jason takes us through some of the best hikes in America’s national parks, broken down into three helpful categories: the iconic must‑do trails where the views are legendary but the crowds may be heavy, the lesser‑known trails inside the big parks where you can find solitude without sacrificing scenery, and the true hidden gems tucked away in lesser‑visited parks waiting to be discovered.  Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who just wants to get outside and explore nature, Jason shares practical tips on how to avoid crowds, pick a hike that fits your comfort level, and get the most out of your park visit.  Plus, we have part one of our bonus three-part mini series, Best in Travel Tech! What’s the best hike you’ve ever done in a national park, and what made it memorable for you? I'd love to hear what about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why hiking down into a surreal red-rock landscape full of spires and silence can feel like a private wilderness escape Why the right timing in one of the most visited parks in the country can make all the difference  Why the annual U.S. National Parks pass is still one of the best travel deals in America How to identify lesser­crowded trails in major parks, and what to do when you arrive and the parking lot is full. Safety tips for extreme terrain, wild weather, and remote locations that catch many hikers off guard Why “just try” might be the most important mindset to take into the backcountry A short trail that leads to an unforgettable view, yet barely anyone talks about Why national parks aren’t just about nature—they’re also about culture, history and the stories of people and place beneath the landscapes. Which resources Jason uses to scout, prep, and get the most out of every national park trip And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Moon US National Parks Hiking: The Top 100 Trails Jason on Instagram National Park Service Recreation.gov  AllTrails Google Explore Want More? Hiking the West Highland Way in Scotland with Lynne Nieman A 2,190+ Mile Mother-Son Adventure: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail after a Decade of Nomadic Family Travel with Jessica and Largo Sueiro How to Plan Your Camino + Going Beyond the Camino Frances (Secret Routes, Donkey Highways, and Spain’s Hidden Village Network) with Shawn and Lainey Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Moon Travel Guides: USA National Parks Hiking - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order of Moon’s latest book and other guides. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

What would life feel like if you could reliably tap into your intuition, even when your logic is pulling in another direction? Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir is an Icelandic author, speaker, and creative leader known for popularizing the concept of InnSæi, the Icelandic approach to intuition. She spent years working in international development (including the UN) before shifting into coaching, writing, and teaching how to access inner wisdom. Her book InnSæi: Heal, Revive, and Reset with the Icelandic Art of Intuition draws on psychology, neuroscience, poetry, and cultural insight. In our conversation, Hrund talks about what intuition is and isn’t, and how her InnSæi framework can help us reconnect with it.  We explore how intuition is both real and learnable, and how it can work alongside logic to guide big life choices, including where and how you want to travel. You’ll get practical tools to calm your nervous system, tell the difference between fear and true inner signals, and create space in your day-to-day life to actually hear and trust your intuition. What decision or longing is tugging at you these days, and how can you use your intuition to help guide you? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How InnSæi maps to “the sea within,” insight, and seeing from the inside out Hrund’s definition of intuition as the efficient use of unconscious information  When intuition is most reliable and when emotional states might cloud it Two powerful journaling practices to sharpen self-awareness and help decode your inner signals A simple breathing technique to calm your system before a decision How to show up grounded in meetings, creative tasks, and travel decisions How intuition and creativity are intertwined, and how to create structure to channel them Why self‑trust and confidence in your own judgment matter more than any external validation And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Hrund’s website and book InnSæi course Want More? Using Intuition to Make Tough Decisions, Learning to Surrender, Discovering Purpose, and Living Your Best Life with Amrit Sandhu from Inspired Evolution How to Flourish in 2025: 5 Pillars of Well-Being with Pat Sperry How to Navigate Transitions and Design Your Life (Without the BS) with Lauren Handel Zander Thanks To Our Sponsors CREATOR: The Podcast - Join host Ross Borden as he uncovers how top creators built six-figure incomes from beach cafes, mountain peaks, and everything in between.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2025