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Elizabeth (Libby) Harrington, Founder & Chief Explorer of VITAL Ventures, joins Christine as the Soulful Trailblazer honoree for this week’s soulful conversation, produced in collaboration with ​Strictly Jane Austen Tours​.

We continue our special Soul of Travel series celebrating three extraordinary women who are being recognized as Soulful Trailblazers—women who are creating positive change through travel while opening doors and creating opportunities for others. We are excited to share that we are partnering with friend and colleague Becki Rupp, Founder of Trailblazer Wellness, to honor these trailblazers.

Elizabeth (Libby) Harrington is a Pound Ridge entrepreneur who at 58 started an adventure fitness community and company. After 30+ years in digital media, Libby founded VITAL Ventures for people who refuse to accept conventional wisdom about aging.

VITAL combines expert fitness training with wilderness adventures - Costa Rica surf trips, Alaska hiking, a Dolomites trek - proving that our best adventures aren't behind us. "I created what I needed and couldn't find: community, adventure, and permission to prioritize health & fitness at this stage of life," Libby explains.

Her clients, range in ages from 30-80, move from "I could never" to "I actually did" through 3-4 months of training followed by 3-4 days of epic adventure. You don't need to travel far to start: VITAL offers guided local hikes in New York, online Strength & Conditioning training for building confidence on the trail and in life, as well as epic global adventures.

In this conversation, Libby and Christine discuss:

· Career peaks and the experience of being pushed out because of age, gender, and success, and treating that peak as an opportunity to work more closely aligned with your values

· How extreme hiking and adventure can build new self-belief

· The energy around last chance tourism, and making travel choices in response to the climate crisis

· Moving with respect and reverence while witnessing, celebrating, and standing in awe of a changing planet

Each of our Soulful Trailblazers series honorees is charting their own path, championing the people and communities around her, and helping us imagine what a more thoughtful and inclusive travel industry can look like. In these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to be a trailblazer, the moments that shaped their journeys, and the ripple effect their work is creating. Most of all, we hope their stories inspire you to recognize the trailblazers in your own circle—and consider how you can help make the path a little wider for those who follow.

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Elizabeth (Libby) Harrington.

With special thanks to our season sponsor, Strictly Jane Austen Tours!

LOVE these soulful conversations? Make a difference by making a donation on ​Buy Me a Coffee.​​

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Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click ​here​ to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app to help us expand our reach.

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Learn more about ​VITAL Ventures here.

Join the vital movement and subscribe to the newsletter at https://www.vitalventures.live/join-vital. 

Check out the VITAL Ventures upcoming 2027 season to see what adventure is calling you at https://www.vitalventures.live/vital-adventure.

Connect with Libby: ​Instagram​ / ​Facebook​ / ​LinkedIn​

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Follow us on Instagram: ​@she.sojourns​ and ​@souloftravelpodcast​. 

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator). Elizabeth (Libby) Harrington (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by ​Carly Oduardo.

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Cindee Brown-Mills, Founder of Breathe Alaska, joins Christine as the Soulful Trailblazer honoree for this week’s soulful conversation, produced in collaboration with ​Strictly Jane Austen Tours​.

We continue our special Soul of Travel series celebrating three extraordinary women who are being recognized as Soulful Trailblazers—women who are creating positive change through travel while opening doors and creating opportunities for others. We are excited to share that we are partnering with friend and colleague Becki Rupp, Founder of Trailblazer Wellness, to honor these trailblazers.

Cindee Brown-Mills is the founder of Breathe Alaska, where she creates experiences designed to help people slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience Alaska in a more meaningful way. A breathwork facilitator, nervous system educator, guide, and longtime Alaskan, Cindee’s work sits at the intersection of personal wellbeing, nature, and intentional travel.

After more than 20 years working in corporate, government, and nonprofit finance, Cindee stepped away from a career that no longer felt aligned and began building a life and business centered around connection, presence, and the things that make her feel most alive. Through Breathe Alaska, she works with individuals, groups, and workplaces through breathwork and nervous system education, while also creating intimate Alaska experiences that invite guests to move more slowly and connect with the land, local food, community, Alaskan culture, and themselves.

Cindee has called Juneau, Alaska home since 1998 and believes some of the most meaningful travel experiences happen when we stop trying to see everything and give ourselves permission to truly be where we are. Whether she is guiding someone through the forests of Southeast Alaska, sharing a meal around a table, or helping someone reconnect with their breath, her work is rooted in creating space for people to pause, notice, and leave a little more connected than when they arrived.

In this conversation, Cindee and Christine discuss:

· The importance of slowing down, listening, being present in our lives and in our travel experiences

· The simplicity and importance of breath in our lives and how it can transform our experiences and help us to heal and feel more connected to self and others

· Cindee’s experience being welcomed into Native Alaskan culture and the value that has added to her life

· Sharing experiences with travelers to help them to connect more deeply to land and culture in Alaska

Each of our Soulful Trailblazers series honorees is charting their own path, championing the people and communities around her, and helping us imagine what a more thoughtful and inclusive travel industry can look like. In these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to be a trailblazer, the moments that shaped their journeys, and the ripple effect their work is creating. Most of all, we hope their stories inspire you to recognize the trailblazers in your own circle—and consider how you can help make the path a little wider for those who follow.

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Cindee Brown-Mills.

With special thanks to our season sponsor, Strictly Jane Austen Tours!

LOVE these soulful conversations? Make a difference by making a donation on ​Buy Me a Coffee.​​

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Learn more about Breathe Alaska here, including retreats, private tours, breathwork, and nervous system education designed to help people slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience both travel and everyday life more intentionally.

Connect with Cindee: ​Instagram​ / ​Facebook​ / ​LinkedIn​

Find out more about Alaska Forest & Feast, a small group experience Cindee created through Breathe Alaska that blends nature, local food, mindfulness, and connection to place in Southeast Alaska. 

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Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click ​here​ to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app to help us expand our reach.

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Follow us on Instagram: ​@she.sojourns​ and ​@souloftravelpodcast​. 

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator). Cindee Brown-Mills (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by ​Carly Oduardo.

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Grace Philipp is the founder and CEO of Discover Queer Travel, which designs bespoke travel experiences around the unique needs of queer women, trans, non-binary and non-cis travelers. Grace's path to Discover Queer Travel winds through a travel agency in Seville, public health and economic development work across Colombia, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, India, and her hometown of NYC, and a decade building social responsibility initiatives across NYC government and corporate America. Wherever she travels, she looks for the same thing: queer spaces where community thrives. Discover Queer Travel aims to turn tourism dollars into economic power for LGBTQ+ organizers and businesses that make destinations welcoming.

​Learn more about the Soulful Trailblazer series in partnership with Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness!

In this conversation, Grace and Christine discuss:

· The gap in the travel industry for serving queer travelers

· The need for education and advocacy, with the need for resources for inclusive spaces where queer travelers feel seen, safe, and welcome

· Going beyond surface level gestures of inclusivity toward deeper conversations and setting aside fears of 'getting it wrong' along the way in order to push progress forward

Each of our Soulful Trailblazers series honorees is charting their own path, championing the people and communities around her, and helping us imagine what a more thoughtful and inclusive travel industry can look like. In these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to be a trailblazer, the moments that shaped their journeys, and the ripple effect their work is creating. Most of all, we hope their stories inspire you to recognize the trailblazers in your own circle—and consider how you can help make the path a little wider for those who follow.

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Grace Philipp.

LOVE these soulful conversations? Make a difference by making a donation on ​Buy Me a Coffee.​​

❤️​​​​​​​​

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click ​here​ to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app to help us expand our reach.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Learn more about ​Discover Queer Travel here.​

Connect with Grace: ​Instagram​ / ​Facebook​ / ​LinkedIn​

Special thanks to ​Strictly Jane Austen Tours​ for your partnership in the production of Season 7 of Soul of Travel Podcast!

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Follow us on Instagram: ​@she.sojourns​ and ​@souloftravelpodcast​. 

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator). Grace Philipp (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by ​Carly Oduardo.

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This week, we introduce special Soul of Travel series celebrating three extraordinary women who are being recognized as Soulful Trailblazers—women who are creating positive change through travel while opening doors and creating opportunities for others. We are excited to share that we are partnering with friend and colleague Becki Rupp, Founder of Trailblazer Wellness, to honor these trailblazers.

Becki is a certified Personal Trainer and Adventure Travel Coach whose vision is to empower more people to pursue their travel dreams by helping them gain the strength, stamina and confidence to make the most of their adventures and life. She supports her clients through a transformation, from being uncertain about their upcoming adventure to being physically prepared and confident. Over the past 6 years, she has worked with more than 100 clients who have completed multi-day hikes and cycling trips in 27 countries.  Becki has summited Kilimanjaro, hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and completed the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago, among many other multi-day hikes and cycling trips.

Each of our series guests is charting their own path, championing the people and communities around her, and helping us imagine what a more thoughtful and inclusive travel industry can look like. In these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to be a trailblazer, the moments that shaped their journeys, and the ripple effect their work is creating. Most of all, we hope their stories inspire you to recognize the trailblazers in your own circle—and consider how you can help make the path a little wider for those who follow.

We’re thrilled to share these Soulful Trailblazer nominees so YOU can be inspired and WE can create a ripple effect across the travel community!

Angela Rice | Boutique Travel Advisors

Ashley Blake | Traverse Journeys

Baylee Waterman Shapiro | Boutique Travel Advisors

Cindee Brown-Mills | Breathe Alaska

Elizabeth Harrington | Vital Ventures

Grace Philipp | Discover Queer

Hayley Cooper | Wild Dreams Hospitality

Janet Semenova | Boutique Travel Advisors  

Karolina Guilcapi | Sated Ventures

In this conversation, Becky and Christine discuss:

· How their paths have crossed and the ways they have worked together
· The spark for this recognition and why we think it is important right now
·How the Soulful Trailblazers recognition expands the work and impact of the Soul of Travel Podcast

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Becki Rupp. Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or listen from souloftravelpodcast.com.

LOVE these soulful conversations? Make a difference by making a donation on ​Buy Me a Coffee.​​

❤️​​​​​​​​

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click ​here​ to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app to help us expand our reach.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Follow us on Instagram: ​@she.sojourns​ and ​@souloftravelpodcast​. 

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator). Becki Rupp (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by ​Carly Oduardo.

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Thushni de Silva, Director at Magical Isle Holidays, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Thushni de Silva is a Sri Lankan travel professional with a deep appreciation for culture, heritage, and meaningful connections. With a passion for crafting authentic travel experiences, she is dedicated to showcasing the beauty, diversity, and stories that make Sri Lanka so special. Known for her thoughtful approach and genuine enthusiasm for people and places, Thushni believes that travel is not simply about visiting destinations, but about creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us. Through her work, she continues to inspire travellers to experience Sri Lanka with curiosity, respect, and wonder.

In this episode, Thushni and Christine discuss:

· The power that travel has as a force for good and balancing positive and negative impact 

· The importance of visibility and creating pathways for women in tourism in Sri Lanka, including the Female Guide Training Program offered by Women in Travel Collective

· Building a community in which women support women and creating generational pathways 

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Learn more about Magical Isle Holidays at https://magicalisleholidays.com/.

Learn more about Women in Travel Collective at https://www.womenintravelcollective.org/.

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Thushni de Silva (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Alessandra Alonso, Founder of Women in Travel CIC and the IWTTF (International Women in Travel and Tourism Forum), joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Alessandra is the pluri-nominated, award-winning founder and MD of Women in Travel CIC and a professional with 20 years of experience in travel and tourism. Alessandra started her career as a trainee in Tourism at the European Commission and later gained senior roles in companies including The World Travel & Tourism Council and KPMG. Alessandra is a keynote speaker and regular contributor to travel publications. She was awarded the JourneyWoman Award in 2021 for her lifetime dedication to gender empowerment. 

Alessandra has been named one of 9 women transforming travel by the Matador Network; one of 50 ‘most important women in travel’ by Wonderlust Travel and recently completed the Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from the University of South Florida.

In this episode, Alessandra and Christine discuss:

· How the Women in Travel, CIC Tour Guide Academy centers women's voices and narratives as a pathway to economic empowerment

· Expanding the ripple effect beyond our own lives and shifting how we perceive who is the expert and whose stories are worth being told as a part of history

· The importance of allyship in creating big, lasting changes in the industry

Join us Wednesday for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Learn more about Alessandra and Women in Travel at https://www.womenintravelcic.com

Learn more about Alessandra and Women in Travel at https://www.womenintravelcic.com

Follow Alessandra Alonso on your favorite social platform:

• Instagram @women in travel _cic
• Facebook Women In Travel CIC
• Twitter @WTMwomen
• LinkedIn Women In Travel CIC Group

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

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In this special episode of Soul of Travel, we are thrilled to share the inspiring wmnsWORK 2025 Cohort 7 Demo Day presentations.

wmnsWORK helps women and non-binary folks build thriving tourism businesses through education, mentorship and community. The goal of wmnsWORK is to flatten the learning curve when it comes to industry knowledge and entrepreneurship, helping you reach your goals faster and with more fun through 12 weeks of expert-led workshops, mentorship, and community.

Demo Day is your chance to learn more about what these inspiring wmnsWORK Cohort 7 grads have been up to. They've worked so hard to refine their pitches and business offerings, and are excited to share them with the tourism industry at large. Through each company's 5-minute pitch, you'll get a glimpse of their passion and dedication as they unveil their unique ventures to fellow members of the tourism industry, and learn how YOU can support them.

From tour operators to travel designers, it's a diverse lineup that captures the essence of the evolving tourism landscape. We encourage you to connect and collaborate with these fabulous wmn+!

Featuring:

Pooja Akula | Ibtida Homes

Giuditta Pileri | numenvia

Lisa Bisceglia | Surf For Life

Dr. LaDonna Sanders Nkosi | Ubuntu Global Collective, LLC

Diana Oglivie  | Urban Sass Travels - http://urbansass.io/

Grace Philipp | Discover Queer

Sara Champagne | Avia Collective 

Iman Childs | Booked by Iman

LaKeshia Banks | Revive and Roam Travel

Maya Strasser | Delicious Discoveries

Join us for this special soulful presentation from the graduates of WmnsWork Cohort 7.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit https://wmnswork.com/ to learn more about the Tourism Business Accelerator program and support their efforts to support women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Sheridan Samano, founder of Reefs to Rockies & Her Wild Life Expeditions, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Sheridan Samano is a wildlife enthusiast, guide, and co-founder of Reefs to Rockies. Her passion for animals began as a child, flipping through National Geographic magazines, and has only grown since then. Sheridan holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science and a master’s in biology. Her guiding journey began when she launched a study abroad program focused on sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica. In the field, Sheridan’s ability to spot a break in the pattern and quickly adapt leads to plenty of “wows” from the guests in her groups. When she’s not traveling, you’ll find her along a trail in Colorado with her family, searching for something feathered or furred, or enjoying a local craft beer after a day in the field. Her favorite animal? The cheetah.

In this episode, Sheridan and Christine discuss:

· The connection between tourism and conservation and how our understanding of that connection evolves

· How following a passion for creating more opportunities for women, nature, and birding guides has the potential to shift systems that perpetuate gender disparities

· How tourism leaders can show up, set examples, be mentors, and open doors for more women to participate in tourism and conservation

Join us Wednesday for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit https://reefstorockies.com/ to learn more about experiencing wild places in a way that feels meaningful, seamless, and deeply connected to the natural world. 

Visit https://herwildlifeexpeditions.com/ to explore immersive, expert-led adventures – designed by women.

Connect with Sheridan Samano: Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook /  Instagram / Facebook

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Sheridan Samano (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Theresa McDermott, founder and CEO of ECT Travel, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Theresa is the founder and CEO of ECT Travel, a company based in Bath with worldwide operations, and the founder of Strictly Jane Austen Tours. She is a seasoned travel professional with over 40 years’ experience, starting with facilitating seamless group travel for over 25,000 customers traveling from the UK and Germany into destinations across Europe and culminating with today’s specialist, bespoke packages for customers from all parts of the globe. Active in her local community as well as regionally and nationally, Theresa is a former President of Bath Chamber of Commerce, Director of Future Bath Plus, Business West and UK Inbound. Theresa is currently a director of the regional tourism organisation, VisitWest, and Chair of the Bath Advisory Group. She also curates an annual series of “Phenomenal Women” lectures at YTL’s Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel and is responsible for marketing the iconic and award-winning Thermae Bath Spa.

Strictly Jane Austen Tours was created in 2015 to provide in-depth immersive experiences for fans of Jane Austen, including Cosplay, film locations, and bespoke multi-day tours customized for guests.

We are so grateful for Theresa and Strictly Jane Austen Tours for their collaboration in producing our Trailblazer Series!

In this episode, Theresa and Christine discuss:

· The impact that the Soul of Travel Podcast space has on creating a platform for women’s conversations in travel and tourism

· What makes travel meaningful for ourselves and others

· The privilege it is to design experiences that have an impact on the lives of others

· Jane Austen’s trailblazing story

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit https://www.ecttravel.com to learn more and turn your travel dreams into reality. 

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Theresa McDermott (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Beth Santos & Nikki Padilla Rivera, Co-Owners of She Shapes History, join Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as guests in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Beth is a changemaker shaping the future of the travel industry, recognized by Business Insider, Conde Nast Traveller, and Travel Pulse, and was named Godmother of the Azamara Onward cruise ship. She is the author of solo travel guide and manifesto Wander Woman and works to amplify underrepresented voices in travel while challenging each of us to do better in her work as a keynote speaker, an industry consultant, and a startup and small business coach. At home, she is a co-owner of Ula Cafe, an inspired cafe and community hub in the Boston neighborhood of Jamaica Plain, where she lives with her husband and children.

Nikki has worked across the tourism industry worldwide, from operations and tour design to marketing and business development. She is co-owner and guide of She Shapes History NYC, celebrating the hidden history of women who built the city. By day, she leads brand and content strategy at WalksDevour while mentoring independent guides and creators through workshops and female-focused communities like Wanderful and wmnsWORK. She believes all tours can be better, and actively works to ensure she's less frequently the only woman at the table for larger industry conversations.

In this episode, Beth, Nikki, and Christine discuss:

·  Uncovering the stories of women left out of documented history and challenging perceptions of credible sources

·  The ways in which women were made invisible in the guiding, travel and tourism industries

· The impact of women telling the stories of people and places to both travelers and locals who want a broader understanding of their home

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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JOIN the Soul of Travel Podcast Email Community!

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit She Shapes History NYC to learn more and book your tour of New York’s hidden history of women – stories you never knew you were missing. Use the Code Soul10 for a special listener discount for your next Badass Women of NY Tour!

Connect with Beth & Nikki on your favorite social media network! Instagram / LinkedIn

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Beth Santos & Nikki Padilla Rivera (Guests). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Nadah Feteih, Founder and CEO of Ma’wa Collective, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Nadah Feteih is a runner, hiker, and mountaineer who grew up with a deep love for the outdoors. She is a certified Wilderness First Responder and has guided dozens of group hiking trips across the U.S. and internationally. After summiting Kilimanjaro, she founded Ma'wa Collective to make the outdoors more accessible to women in her community. Under her leadership and alongside her fantastic team, Ma'wa has grown into the largest adventure travel community for Muslim women, connecting thousands online and on the trails. Nadah's background as a Software Engineer at Google and Meta enables her to solve problems at scale and build systems that support growth. In her free time, she continues to push her limits through endurance races and high-altitude summits. She's always looking for new ways to combine her faith with her passion for exploring the beauty of Allah SWTs creation.

In this episode, Nadah and Christine discuss:

· Building cross-cultural understanding through adventure travel

· Resume virtues versus eulogy virtues — and how a non-linear path in life can be a source of power

· The barriers Muslim women face accessing outdoor spaces, from modest performance gear to representation in the industry

· What authentic inclusion in travel looks like

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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Our Trailblazer Series Needs You! We hope that you will share about a woman who inspires you and who is working to amplify the voices of women, champion local communities and working to create positive change in the world. Submit your nomination here: Soulful Trailblazer Campaign!

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit Ma’wa Collective to learn more and support Muslim women in a unique adventure community rooted in faith, exploration, and self-discovery.

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Nadah Feteih (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Irstel Jansen, Founder of the Women in Travel Collective, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as a guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Irstel is a social entrepreneur and a consultant in human rights in the tourism sector in Sri Lanka and collaborates with international and non governmental organizations, the private sector and public sector institutions on human rights policies, including child protection & child trafficking, gender equality and diversity and social cohesion through peace building initiatives. 

Irstel is the founder of the Women In Travel Collective, a supportive community that advocates for gender equity in tourism while creating tangible opportunities for women across the industry in Sri Lanka. She has over 20 years of working experience in the field of international development, international human rights and sustainable tourism. She is a public speaker on women empowerment & gender equality in the tourism sector in Sri Lanka and is an associate of Equality in Tourism, a non-profit organisation based in the UK transforming the lives of women by advocating for gender equality across the global tourism industry.

In this episode, Irstel and Christine discuss:

· The barriers facing women in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, where less than 10% of the formal workforce is comprised of women

· Child protection and trafficking in tourism, breaking industry taboos, and working at every level to enact change

· Community-based tourism and experiential travel

· The future of tourism in Sri Lanka and why women’s leadership, responsible development, and human connection are essential

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit The Women in Travel Collective to learn more about empowering women in the travel and hospitality industries. 

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Irstel Jansen (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Sophie Llenos, Land advocate and Board Secretary of the Porter Voice Collective, joins Christine for this week’s soulful conversation as the first guest in our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

Sophie is a settler guest on Anishinaabe Aki, originally from Toledo, Ohio, and currently based near Waawiyatanong (Detroit), Michigan. Growing up accompanying her civil engineer father to construction sites and camping in Hocking Hills, she developed an early interest in how humans shape and are shaped by the Land. An avid hiker and wife, Sophie’s personal and professional life are grounded in a love of Land and community.

Sophie is a PhD candidate in Earth and Environmental Science at Michigan State University, collaboratively researching ethical engagement in Land-based industries. She holds a B.S. in Geology with a minor in Anthropology and has worked across museums, parks, nonprofits, and higher education. She serves in leadership roles with the Buckeye Trail Association and the Porter Voice Collective and has contributed to international applied research through the American Geophysical Union’s Thriving Earth Exchange. Sophie’s graduate certificates include Adult Learning, Indigenous Studies, Museum Studies, and Nonprofit Leadership, and is committed to fostering ethical, community-centered approaches to Land stewardship and ensuring future generations have access to and care for the natural world, of which we are all a part.

In this episode, Sophie and Christine discuss:

· Expanding gender equity in the outdoors and creating systemic change in tourism

· The concept of rematriation and how a single word reframes indigenous women's power and relational responsibilities

· The Porter Voice Collective's mission and the Himalayan Women Trail Leaders initiative in Nepal

· Intergenerational thinking as a source of hope for the future of equitable outdoor leadership

Join us now for this soulful conversation.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit The Porter Collective to learn more and support workforce equity in mountain tourism.

Special thanks to Strictly Jane Austen Tours for your partnership in the production of our Trailblazer Series!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here! Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @she.sojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Sophie Llenos (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this solo episode of Soul of Travel, Season 7: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine offers a soulful launch, celebrating 6 years of Soul of Travel Podcast and the kick off of Season 7 with our Trailblazer Series, produced in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen Tours.

I am so excited to bring you this season and I hope that we can continue to be a space for connection, growth, and belonging. And do it in a way that allows for us to show up as our most human selves while navigating a complex and beautiful world, together.

~ Christine Winebrenner Irick

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/souloftravelpodcast.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soul-of-travel/id1552279594.

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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As part of our Trailblazer series, we hope that you will share about a woman who inspires you and who is working to amplify the voices of women, champion local communities and working to create positive change in the world. Submit your Trailblazer recognition in audio, video, or written form here: Soulful Trailblazer Campaign! 

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful celebration of Season 6 and 250+ episodes of the Soul of Travel Podcast.

Christine shares:

· Celebrations for the nearly 50,000 downloads and 250+ episodes of the Soul of Travel Podcast

· Upcoming Soul of Travel projects, including quarterly meetups!

· Soul of Travel Podcast Merch & CommuniTees

· The importance of rest and the podcast’s upcoming brief hiatus

· Ways to support the Soul of Travel podcast production going forward, including sponsorship and partnership opportunities

Join Christine for this soulful celebration.

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Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee!

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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Special Thanks to Our Guests!

Amanda & Asnath Kessy, Founders | Still Waters Safaris

Becki Rupp, Adventure Coach, Founder | Trailblazer Wellness

Carly Oduardo, Content Marketing Consultant | ConVerGente.io

Hilary Matson, MBA, Founder | Yugen Earthside

Mary Ellen Mansfield, Small Business and Nonprofit Accountant | Natural Accountant LLC

Siham Lahmine, Luxury Culinary & Heritage Specialist, Founder | Morocco Travel Organizer

Suzanne Rommelfanger, Tourism & Sustainable & Adventure Travel Leader 

Vincie Ho, Social Change Leader, Founder and Executive Director | RISE Travel Institute

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Kate Williams.

Kate Williams is CEO of 1% for the Planet, a global movement that inspires action and commitment so that our planet and future generations thrive. In more than a decade of leadership at the organization, Kate has scaled 1% for the Planet’s network to span 110 countries and 65 industries, driving more than $800 million in certified giving to vetted environmental solutions. A sought-after public speaker and recognized environmental leader, Kate was honored as a 2025 MO 100 Top Impact CEO, named among the 2025 Top Keynote Speakers by the Real Leaders Impact Awards, and received the 2024 New Era of Leadership Award from Chief. Kate earned her BA from Princeton University and her MS from the MIT Sloan School of Management. A dedicated connector and changemaker, she has served on a variety of nonprofit and advisory boards throughout her career. Outside of work, she’s a mom to two grown children and an avid trail runner, living in Vermont with her husband of 30 years and their dog, Maeve.

Christine and Kate discuss:

· Kate’s journey from outdoor leadership to environmental impact leadership

· Adaptive leadership, vulnerability, and authenticity

· The shift from charity to responsibility in business with community-based impact and localized support

· Work-life balance and resilience in leadership

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Kate Williams.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee.

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Learn more at onepercentfortheplanet.org.

Connect with Kate and the 1% for the Planet team on social media! / Instagram / Facebook / Kate’s LinkedIn 

Now through the end of the year, 1% for the Planet is on a mission to unlock $1 million in support for their organization through their annual Challenge Grant. Support here: https://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/donate?form=donate.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Kate Williams (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Greta Matos.

Greta is deeply committed to a life of intentional relationship with Earth, Horse and Soul. With her family and herd, she composes a life in the heart of Patagonia, where she is devoted to soulful relationship with human and non-human kin. Within her organization CuraKuda, she nurtures spaces where the wild essence of the horse, human and earth can encounter their shared language.  In all aspects of her work, from the field to the boardroom, she nurtures the inner transformation of individuals and collectives as they embody a more responsive, creative, and collaborative relationship with Earth, ancestors, one another and future generations. Greta is a writer, a mother, a soul friend and a dedicated spirit.

Christine and Greta discuss:

· Reconnecting with roots and purpose as the compass for personal and professional growth

· Embracing joy, vulnerability, and authenticity as the foundation of mindful leadership

· Allowing business to be “fully human” by integrating heart, compassion, and lived experience

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Greta Matos.

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Christine is inviting you to join a virtual gathering to celebrate the end of Season 6 of Soul of Travel Podcast and the 250 episode milestone! Reserve your spot here!

Support the podcast: Buy Me a Coffee.

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Visit CuraKuda to explore Greta’s purpose-guided organization cultivating relational, restorative and transformational experiences that nurture connection and cultivate resilience at www.curakuda.com.

Learn more about Greta and her work at https://quilaquina.com/.

Connect with Greta on your favorite social media network! Greta’s Instagram / CuraKuda Instagram

Support Fundación Llancalil in Southern Chile at https://fundacionllancalil.org/.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Casey Hanisko! Through business coaching and consulting, Casey collaborates with women+ and purpose-driven leaders in adventure, outdoor and non-profit industries helping them become great leaders and to build great businesses. Work with Casey by reaching out through her website at caseyhanisko.com – or email her at hello@caseyhanisko.com.

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Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Greta Matos (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, 

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Rachel Vigil.

Rachel Vigil is the CEO and Founder of UpClose Marketing, a company that connects brands with vacation rental operators across the U.S. By providing free products for vacation stays, UpClose Marketing creates unique trial opportunities that introduce guests to new products in an authentic and memorable way. In addition to leading her company, Rachel also self-manages two of her own short-term rentals, giving her firsthand insight into the industry she serves.  Her passion for travel fuels her curiosity and creativity, giving her fresh perspectives to bring into every project she takes on. Whether she’s growing partnerships through UpClose Marketing, managing her own properties, exploring new corners of the world, or spending quality time with her kids, Rachel leads with connection, purpose, and a drive to make a meaningful difference.

Christine and Rachel discuss:

· The power of travel to connect women across cultures

· How supporting fair trade and women-led initiatives can uplift whole communities

· Bridging business and travel to amplify voices and create equitable opportunities for women

· Fostering cultural understanding and mindful travel through home exchanges, learning language basics, and authentic experiences

· The importance of bringing respect, curiosity, and generosity into travel

Join me now for this soulful conversation with Rachel Vigil. 

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Casey Hanisko! Through business coaching and consulting, Casey collaborates with women+ and purpose-driven leaders in adventure, outdoor and non-profit industries helping them become great leaders and to build great businesses. Work with Casey by reaching out through her website at caseyhanisko.com – or email her at hello@caseyhanisko.com.

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We only have a few more episodes left of Season 6, and we would like to extend a special invitation to you for our Season Wrap Party & 250 Episode Celebration on November 18 at 10:00 am MT! Register to attend here to connect with past guests and other listeners, and hear what’s next on the podcast. 

We’re gearing up for Season 7 and we’re so excited to carry the podcast forward, and need financial contributions in order to make it happen. Support the production of Soul of Travel directly at our Buy Me a Coffee link here.

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Visit Up Close Marketing to learn more!

Connect with Rachel on your favorite social media network: Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn.

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Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Anna Grodzki.

Anna Grodzki is Managing Director and Co-Owner of Matoke Tours Africa, a leading DMC based in Uganda. Committed to exploring regenerative thinking, place-based sustainability, and innovative impact reporting, Anna sees tourism as a catalyst for connection and creating space for personal and collective transformation. Every journey she and her team designs aims to enrich travelers’ lives while supporting the wellbeing of the communities and ecosystems that make these experiences possible. 

At Matoke Tours, she loves building projects that give depth and purpose to travel — from Travelling Sisterhood Safaris, empowering women through adventure and connection, to Matoke Academy, a digital B2B learning platform, and Trails of Tomorrow, a soon-to-launch accelerator for new tourism products in Uganda.

Christine and Anna discuss:

· How decisions open doors and a single “Yes!” can keep on giving for years to come

· The process of creating Traveling Sisterhood Safaris

· Identifying and closing industry gaps for women in tourism

· Curiosity, adaptability, and flexibility leading to innovation and reward in entrepreneurship

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Anna Grodzki.

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Love these soulful conversations and want to expand our reach? Support Soul of Travel on Buy Me a Coffee, subscribe here to Apple Podcasts, and rate and review your favorite episodes.

To discuss advertising or sponsoring an episode, reach out to Christine at souloftravelpodcast@gmail.com.

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Visit Matoke Tours to explore your next visit to Uganda. 

Connect with Anna on your favorite social media network! Instagram / LinkedIn

Learn more about Traveling Sisterhood Safaris.

Subscribe for news about Matoke’s soon-to-launch eco-conscious and community-led tourism accelerator, Trails of Tomorrow.

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Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Anna Grodzki (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Karin Jones.

Karin Jones is the Founder & CEO of Artisans of Safari, a bespoke safari company dedicated to creating meaningful, conservation-centered journeys across Africa. With nearly four decades of experience designing safaris since 1987, Karin has been recognized on Travel + Leisure’s A-List and Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialist list for Africa in 2025. Through her deep relationships with Africa’s leading conservationists, guides, and lodge owners, she connects travelers with transformative experiences that support wildlife protection, empower local communities, and rewild African tourism, using travel as a tool for positive change. Karin is also the creator and host of the Safari ChangeMakers video podcast, spotlighting Africa’s conservation pioneers and tourism innovators. For Karin, a safari is never just a trip; it’s a way to create impact, purpose, and lifelong connection.

Christine and Karin discuss:

· The magic of slow, intentional travel, being present, and embracing detours

· Highlighting women guides, trackers, and lodge leaders to shape the safari story

· How to design trips to combine conservation with community benefit

· Traveling with empathy, awareness, and stewardship

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Karin Jones. 

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LOVE these soulful conversations? Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee.

Subscribe to Apple Podcasts!

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Explore bespoke Africa safaris with Artisans of Safari.

Connect with Karin on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

Subscribe to the Safari Changemakers podcast! YouTube / Spotify

Editor’s Note: We would love to dedicate this episode to the great Dr. Jane Goodall. We remember and honor her legacy of justice, conservation, and compassion. To support the continuation of her work, visit the Jane Goodall Institute.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Karin Jones (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Cynthia B. Mothelesi.

With over thirteen years in the tourism industry, Cynthia B. Mothelesi has turned her lifelong love for travel into a purpose-driven journey that connects people, places, and cultures through her Botswana-based award-winning responsible tour company, Happy Soul Adventures. Cynthia’s travels in Malaysia, Australia, and the world sparked a dream: to create a safe, inclusive, and joyful space for solo female travelers and anyone seeking meaningful adventures. Cynthia believes that to truly experience Africa, you must go beyond the game drives and take time to immerse yourself in local life—share a meal, listen to stories, and dance under the stars with your hosts. Through her storytelling, Cynthia brings these moments to life and uses tourism as a tool for community empowerment and cultural exchange. Beyond travel, Cynthia also works as a tourism business consultant, leading training workshops in rural Botswana to help communities understand and thrive within the hospitality industry. Her long-term dream has been to establish a foundation (HSA Impact) that supports these initiatives sustainably—because empowering local hosts means building a stronger, more authentic tourism ecosystem for everyone.

Christine and Cynthia discuss:

· Transitioning from a short-term rental model to a full-service tour operator

· People and culture-centered soulful travel that prioritizes connection and safety

· Learning how to appreciate and showcase your own backyard

· Slow, responsible travel with community-building initiatives

· Breaking stereotypes and nurturing belonging and deeper mutual understanding through cultural exchange

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Cynthia B. Mothelesi.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? Support us on Buy Me a Coffee!

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Visit Happy Soul Adventures to learn more about responsible tours in Botswana.

Connect with Cynthia on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Cynthia B. Mothelesi (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Purvi Shah.

Born a 3rd-generation Kenyan-Indian, Purvi’s passion for travel was fueled from the road trips and visits to national parks around Kenya with her family as a child. Some of her earliest memories are watching elephants at a salt lick in the Aberdares. During her university years, she travelled extensively around Europe, USA, South America and Australia, but there was always a great pull to return home; her soul would always be in Africa. After starting a career in dentistry, Purvi met and launched a travel blog with her husband, Kamal, which would become Kampur Travel Diaries, which leads customized safaris throughout Africa with the tagline: Adventure With a Cause. Purvi now dedicates all her time to the company as a senior tour consultant and the head of sustainability, specializing in the little details that make travelers’ safaris exceptional.

Christine and Purvi discuss:

· Transitioning from a traditional career to full-time tourism work in the field of impact-driven travel

· How to emphasize storytelling and soul connection in travel 

· The power of impact initiatives that support community projects including menstrual equity, animal care, and education

· Mindful entrepreneurship that focuses on trusting the process, following intuition, and aligning business with values

· Intentional community-building through local guides and authentic cultural exchange

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Purvi Shah.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? Support our work on Buy Me a Coffee!

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? 

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Visit Kampur Travel Diaries to connect with Purvi and discover your next safari adventure in Kenya.

Connect with Purvi on LinkedIn and check out Kampur Travel Diaries updates on Instagram and Facebook.

Learn more and support the Mara Elephant Project.

Visit Days for Girls International to learn about and support menstrual equity and education.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Purvi Shah (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by 

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Amanda and Asnath Kessy.

Amanda Kessy is Managing Director and Co-Founder of Still Waters Safaris. Together with her sister, Asnath Kessy, Co-Founder, they create luxury, immersive, personalized safaris across Tanzania, including wildlife adventures in the Serengeti, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, and immersing in authentic local cultures. Still Waters Safaris connects guests with the heart and soul of Tanzania. Amanda is passionate about sustainable travel, making sure every journey is unforgettable for their guests while also giving back to local communities and supporting conservation. For her, travel is more than seeing beautiful places; it’s about meaningful experiences, connection, and leaving a positive impact.

Christine, Amanda, and Asnath discuss:

· What it’s like to grow up with a parent in the travel industry

· The value of international education and careers

· Following joy and building a business rooted in sustainability and community impact

· Reshaping the safari experience through women’s leadership

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Amanda and Asnath Kessy.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee.

Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit Still Waters Safaris for authentic, luxurious, and personalized experiences that allow you to enjoy the wildlife, beaches, and nature of Tanzania.

Connect with Amanda, Asnath, and Still Waters Safaris: Email / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn 

Learn more about Still Waters Safaris’ upcoming trip with chef and activist Miyoko Schinner.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Amanda Kessy, Asnath Kessy (Guests). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this special episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, we are thrilled to share the inspiring wmnsWORK 2025 Cohort 6 Demo Day presentations.

wmnsWORK is an accelerator focused on women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs designed to help you get a leg up on your tourism business and rally a community while you build it. They do this through 3 main pillars: Education, Mentorship, and Community.

Through each company's 5-minute pitch, you'll get a glimpse of their passion and dedication as they unveil their unique ventures to fellow members of the tourism industry, and learn how YOU can support them. We encourage you to connect and collaborate with these fabulous wmn+!

Featuring:

WellGather | Marla Mae Ramos

Morocco with Hope | Amal Bachikh

Blue Lobster Travel | Caroline Quinn

Three Waves Retreats | Tanya Stojovic, Sam Mikhael, and Hailey Martin

Adventure Collective | Lindsay White

Amble Journeys | Tina Finan

Avventura Vida Travel | Maria Herrera

Lovely Little Adventures | Jodi Suckle

Join us for this special soulful presentation from the graduates of WmnsWork Cohort 6.

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Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee!

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Visit https://wmnswork.com/ to learn more about Tourism Business Accelerator!

Casey Hanisko’s Leading People Program is for leaders looking to deepen your leadership skills, strengthen your team, and create a thriving workplace. Learn more at caseyhanisko.com or contact hello@caseyhanisko.com to register.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Casey Hanisko.

Casey Hanisko is a distinguished leader in the adventure travel industry, celebrated for her extensive contributions and thought leadership. She has shaped the landscape of adventure tourism and business coaching for tourism leaders in pivotal roles including President of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). Casey has been featured in prominent media outlets and is recognized as a thought leader while sharing her perspective on adventure travel, business strategy, and leadership through major industry conferences and her ‘Leading Naturally’ LinkedIn newsletter.

Transitioning to coaching and consulting, Casey leverages her extensive industry knowledge to guide businesses and leaders in travel to navigate changes and challenges, enhance strategic planning, and implement innovative solutions. Casey is a certified coach through the International Coaching Federation and the Coach Training Alliance  with training in assessments such as EQ-i 2.0® and Everything DiSC™. She offers a Leading People ProgramTM twice a year for people leaders looking to develop their management and leadership skills; the next cohort begins September 30th!

Christine and Casey discuss:

· Casey’s path through tourism to coaching and consulting

· Supporting leaders in understanding their values and bringing these values into their work

· Elevating purpose-driven leaders and women-owned businesses

· Coaching resources and book recommendations for travel industry leaders

· Personal retreats as a way to create time for self-reflection

· Leading People, Casey’s upcoming 9-week transformative leadership program

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Casey Hanisko.

#executivecoaching #leadership #womenleaders

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Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

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Visit caseyhanisko.com to learn more about Casey’s work in executive coaching and mentoring.

Connect with Casey on LinkedIn and subscribe to her newsletter, Leading Naturally.

Reserve your space in Casey’s Fall cohort of the Leading People Program, beginning September 30th.

There is space in my Fall cohort of the Leading People Program starting September 30th - https://www.caseyhanisko.com/services/leading-people-program

Learn more about the Women Travel Leaders Elite membership level and reserve your space in Casey’s leadership cohort here.

Explore RISE Travel Institute’s Flagship Program, based in sustainability and anti-oppression in travel. Learn more about RISE Travel Institute’s Carbon Literacy and Climate Justice Workshop for Travel and Tourism Professionals, launching Monday, November 10.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Ceylan Rowe.

Ceylan is the Founder and CEO of the Fihri Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing period poverty by providing sustainable menstrual products to women and girls in underserved communities around the world. Under her leadership, the foundation has reached communities in over 16 countries, supporting those affected by natural disasters, displacement, and lack of access to essential resources. Ceylan’s passion for equity and humanitarian work stems from her personal experiences as a child of Turkish immigrants and from witnessing the impact of the 1999 earthquake in Turkiye. She has served as a Commissioner for the MetroWest Commission on the Status of Women, advocated for menstrual equity legislation in Massachusetts, and even ran for Massachusetts State Representative in 2020. A dedicated mother of two, she continues to inspire through her commitment to ensuring that no one is held back by their period.

Christine and Ceylan discuss:

· The realities of period poverty and how it impacts women and girls globally and in the U.S.

· Reflections on empowerment, dignity, and the hope created when women support one another

· Breaking the systemic barriers that make access to menstrual care a challenge

· The Fihiri Foundation and the Million Period Product Palooza

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Ceylan Rowe.

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Connect with Ceylan and Fihiri Foundation on social media: Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn.

Learn more about how you can impact period poverty with Fihiri Foundation.

The Fihri Foundation will launch the Million Period Product Palooza this September, distributing one million period products across the U.S. and internationally to communities in need.

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Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Ceylan Rowe (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Intentional Adventure Travel as Medicine with Liz Galloway

In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Liz Galloway.

Liz Galloway is a seasoned PR specialist and media professional with a passion for extreme adventure, drawing on experience in brand strategy, media production, luxury travel, wellness, videography, and the adventure industry. She founded Brand Sanity Media and The Well Mind Project to unite travel, media, and mental health advocacy through immersive retreats and wellness programming. Her work spans high‑profile national and international placements, from USA Today to Robb Report, where she blends purpose with placement and produces impactful videos, commercials, and broadcast campaigns. An energetic interim TV host, Liz brings fresh perspectives and has managed multimillion‑dollar marketing and communications budgets, leading data‑driven, AI‑enhanced digital campaigns to grow market share. She organizes TEDxBelltown Women in Seattle and channels adventure, including ocean yacht racing for charity, peak bagging, helicopter flying, and leading adventure‑wellness retreats and more to help people break barriers. Liz’s work focuses on creating authentic, impactful brand narratives that foster deep connections and highlight sustainability, social responsibility, and global exploration. 

Christine and Liz discuss:

· The ways in which travel heals the body, mind, and spirit

· Travel as a catalyst for personal transformation and mental wellbeing

· How side journeys are often the most rewarding
· What happens when we are open and curious in our lives

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Liz Galloway. 

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Connect with Liz on your favorite social media network! Instagram / LinkedIn 

Learn more about the Well Mind Project here.

Inquire about how you can maximize your brand’s visibility with Liz at Brand Sanity Media.

Register to see the next TEDx Belltown Women in Seattle or learn more about speaking opportunities.

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Follow us on Instagram: @souloftravelpodcast and  @lotussojourns.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick  (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production and content writing by Carly Oduardo, con.ver.gente.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, Christine hosts a soulful conversation originally aired as a Soul of Travel: Beyond subscriber exclusive.

We hear from Iris Serbanescu (wmnsWORK), Lila Fox (Lila Fox Travel Co.), and Amanda Riffee (ACR Professional Coaching).

We take a look at the ways that we define success, where those definitions come from, breaking down preconceived notions of success, and honoring our full self along the way.

As Michele Obama stated, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”

Our perception of success and whether we think we have reached it or not can be one of the things that hold us back from accomplishing all that we wish to in our lives.

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Iris, Lila, and Amanda.

#SoulOfTravel #MindfulTravel #WomensWisdom #TravelPodcast

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Visit the following to check out how our podcast guests are shaking things up in the travel space!

Iris Serbanescu as Founder and CEO of wmnsWORK Tourism Business Accelerator 

Lila Fox Co. for Private Leisure Travel Arrangements & Privately Led Trips by Lila

ACR Professional Coaching for Women with Amanda Riffee

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Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. 

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Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Iris Serbanescu, Lila Fox, Amanda Riffee (Guests). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Laura Ericson.

Laura Ericson traded her 14-year career in higher education in 2021 to start a group travel company after a divorce that became her unexpected catalyst for rediscovery. She's not just a traveler – she's a cultural bridge-builder who ventures beyond tourist hotspots to shine light on misunderstood destinations like Cuba, Kenya, and Colombia.

Since taking the leap into entrepreneurship, Laura has guided over 250 solo travelers through transformative journeys across nine countries. Her childfree lifestyle allows her to fully dedicate herself to creating authentic adventures that many only dream about. As a writer, content creator, and impact-focused travel curator, she designs experiences that don't just cross borders – they break down barriers. Her mission is to help others discover the world's most fascinating places through a lens of authenticity and intention, while creating positive ripples in every community she touches.

Christine and Laura discuss:

· Group travel and what makes it so special

· How travel designers approach creating mindful travel experiences

· The magic in being uncomfortable and what that brings to our growth journey

· Breaking down stereotypes and building connections in travel

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Laura Ericson.

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Support the podcast! Buy Me a Coffee / Subscribe 

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Connect with Laura on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Podcast Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

Learn more about Camp Lola Whiskey, the summer camp for adults, here!

Subscribe to the Type 2 Travel Podcast at https://www.lauraericson.com/podcast.

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Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Laura Ericson (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Christine Sperber.

Christine Sperber, Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer at MEA, is chief architect of the embodied, experiential aspects of its workshops and programs. She is a former World Cup snowboarder and serial entrepreneur who has launched and grown successful hotels, businesses, and industry-evolving ideas in the sports and hospitality worlds and beyond. The word her workshop participants use most often to describe her is “badass” in recognition of her irrepressible energy and ability to make things happen.

As MEA co-founders, Christine and Chip worked together to turn the idea of a Modern Elder Academy into a reality. She is a devoted team builder whose authenticity, values-based leadership skills, and empathetic engagement create community wherever she focuses her attention. She is a passionate activist and steward of the land and is dedicated to creating transformative experiences that change people’s lives. She makes everything she gets involved in more fun, more meaningful, and more human.

Christine Winebrenner Irick and Christine Sperber discuss:

· Transforming the idea of a “midlife crisis” into a Midlife Chrysalis

· Creating community for important conversations and meaningful connections

· Seeking wisdom and knowledge during life transitions and the need for more support, including during menopause, empty-nesting, retirement and more

· MEA’s upcoming Women’s Health: Reclaim Your Agency, Power, and Freedom retreat

· Joy as Resistance

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Christine Sperber.

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Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Learn more about MEA, explore the destination workshops, and start reimagining aging at https://www.meawisdom.com/.

Connect with Christine and MEA on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Christine Sperber (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful summer solo show.

Christine shares:

· The value in mindfully taking a pause

· Sharing women’s wisdom and travel abroad with the IWTTF

· The soulful call of Montana for Christine and the beauty of shared spaces with friends

· Soulful book recommendations for summer and fall reading

Join Christine now for this soulful solo show with Christine Winebrenner Irick.

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Learn more about the upcoming Monthly Soul Circles!

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee, or connect with Christine for advertisement or sponsorship information.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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New listener? Get to know Christine on the Soul of Travel website and take a listen to past episodes and more.

Visit Christine’s book recommendations below!

Rise Sister Rise: A Guide to Unleashing the Wise, Wild Woman Within

Sacred Contracts: Awakening Your Divine Potential by Caroline Myss

Your Inner Physician and You: CranialSacral Therapy and SomatoEmotional Release by John E. Upledger

The Unseen Body: A Doctor’s Journey through the Hidden Wonders of Human Anatomy by Jonathan Reisman M.D.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine shares The Responsibilities of the Heart: Reflections from WITS, IWTTF, ATTA Elevate and more!

In this solo episode, host Christine Winebrenner Irick invites you into a heartfelt reflection on the powerful lessons, connections, and conversations she experienced over the past few weeks while attending key travel industry events.

— Ruth Bader Ginsburg, quoted by Finnbar Cornwell of Google UK

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Support here: Buy Me a Coffee.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and@souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Christine Winebrenner Irick.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Avery Hale Smith.

Avery Hale Smith is the Chief Experience Officer at Backroads, where she brings a lifelong passion for travel, cultural connection and guest experience. Her global consciousness and love of outdoor adventure was inspired by her family’s extensive travels and time spent in nature throughout her childhood. Her passion for creating meaningful impact began early—at age 12, she founded a nonprofit focused on social advocacy, a commitment that was later recognized by the United Nations. Avery now forges new paths in travel at Backroads as Chief Experience Officer—a role for which she was recognized as one of the “Top 50 Women Chief Experience Officers of 2025” by Women We Admire. Avery Hale Smith looks forward to the future at Backroads, working alongside her father on a mission to open up a world of possibilities and experiences to as many people as possible through the joys of active travel.

Christine and Avery discuss:

• How travel has shaped her as a leader
• The ways in which travel is a reflection of our world 
• Wellness beyond catchphrases and quick fixes
• Women’s Adventures and the 30’s-40’s trips launching this June at Backroads 

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Avery Hale Smith.

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Learn more about Backroads and connect with Avery: https://backroads.com

Connect with Avery on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

Excited to check out the new Backroads travel experiences? Check out Backroads 30s & 40s and Women’s Adventures.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Avery Hale Smith (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Eliza Pesuit.

Eliza Pesuit is the Founding CEO of Global Glimpse, a national nonprofit transforming travel into a force for education, impact, and global connection. Under her leadership, the organization has served over 10,000 high school students from diverse backgrounds, provided $20M in scholarships, and built a proven model that cultivates empathy, agency, and global perspective. Named a Top Woman in Travel & Hospitality (2024) and one of Causeartist’s 30 Nonprofit Leaders Who Will Impact the World, Eliza is redefining what it means to prepare the next generation of globally minded, purpose-driven leaders. She is now expanding Global Glimpse’s reach through Global Glimpse Journeys—a new line of custom travel programs for teams, leaders, and professional networks focused on connection, reflection, leadership, and impact.

Christine and Eliza discuss:

· The intersection of travel, education, and impact

· Global Glimpse’s important role for teens and young adults 

· Shifting access to the formative lessons of travel to create a more just and equitable society

· Growth, momentum and trusting the process

· Creating a vision for the ways that travel and education can help us to envision a different future for the tourism industry

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Eliza Pesuit. 

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Learn more and connect with Eliza: www.globalglimpse.org

Connect with Eliza on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Instagram / LinkedIn

Learn more about Global Glimpse Journeys!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Eliza Pesuit (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Vaishali Patel.

Vaishali is an author, speaker, coach, and creator of the award-nominated Immersive India Tour, which was voted the UK’s number one city walking tour by The Times and The Sunday Times. Her book Solo Explorers empowers women to embrace solo travel for self-discovery and transformation. In her TEDx talk Your Body’s Intelligence, she explores how creativity can support self-awareness and healing. Through her coaching, tours, and talks, Vaishali helps individuals reconnect with themselves, express their stories, and lead authentically to create meaningful impact.

Christine and Vaishali discuss:

· The connection between travel and our inner journey

· How travel instills confidence and personal and professional transformation 

· The Women in Travel, CIC Tour Guide Academy

· Vaishali’s unexpected journey toward creating a walking tour focusing on Indian culture that became a top selling experience in London

· Bridging Cultures and Creating Harmony in our own backyards

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Vaishali Patel.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

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Learn more and connect with Vaishali: https://www.solo-explorers.com 

Connect with Vaishali on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Instagram /  Instagram / LinkedIn

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Vaishali Patel (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful mashup showcasing wisdom from the Women in Travel CIC community about the International Women in Travel and Tourism Forum (IWTTF).

Women in Travel CIC is a UK-based, award-winning social enterprise dedicated to fostering inclusion in the travel and tourism industry, by connecting underserved, diverse female and non-binary talent to employers and enterprising opportunities.

Christine shares clips from:

· Christina Lawford of Diamond Air International

· Zina Bencheikh, Managing Director EMEA Intrepid Travel

· Sofya Muhrer Muromets, Sustainability Manager at Evaneos

· Eljesa Saciri, General Manager at the Zetter Townhouse Marylebone

· Chantal Potgieter, Themba Travel

Join Christine for this soulful mashup.

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If you would love to join us this year in London for IWTTF, visit iwttf.com to get your ticket for the forum and the IWTTF Awards!

Visit the Soul of Travel Podcast website and search for these past award honorees and nominees to hear more. Jayni Gudka - Unseen Tours, Dee Gibson - Kalukanda House, Zina Bencheikh - Intrepid Travel, Jessica Brooks - Eternal Landscapes, Shayna Zand - WeTravel, Jools Sampson - Reclaim Yourself Retreats. 

We would also like to share special recognition to our Community Partners and Podcast Allies: VanessaKarel - GreetHer, Iris Serbanexcu - wmnsWork, Vincie Ho - RISE Travel Institute, Beth Santos - Wanderful and friend the show, Tami Fairweather.

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

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Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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Visit iwttf.com to register and join us in June! 

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Jessica Blotter.

Jessica Blotter is the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of Kind Traveler, an internationally awarded responsible travel platform revolutionizing how we travel through its signature model, Every Stay Gives Back. As the first platform to connect travelers, hotels, and charities around measurable local impact, Kind Traveler empowers guests to create positive change in their communities by supporting environmental and social initiatives tied to each hotel stay.

Christine and Jessica discuss:

· Kind Traveler’s pivot over the last few years and the Every Stay Gives Back program

· The importance of measurable and transparent impact and sharing that with accommodations and travelers

· How to invest in local communities and the impact this creates on local economies and livelihoods

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Jessica Blotter. 

Tess Millhollon and the HerHouse team are excited to help make travel easier, safer, and cheaper for women across the world. Support the Kickstarter here!

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🌎​​Learn more and connect with Jessica: https://www.kindtraveler.com/

Connect with Jessica on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn / LinkedIn

Learn more about how Every Stay Gives Back at KindTraveler.com. Discover Kind Traveler's live positive impact dashboards and impact to date.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Jessica Blotter (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Sarah Dusek.

After selling her first travel company, Under Canvas, in 2018, Sarah Dusek launched Enygma Ventures, a US-based venture capital fund to invest in Africa’s talented female entrepreneurs and contribute towards rectifying the great funding imbalance. Over the last 5 years, Sarah’s work has impacted over 10,000 entrepreneurs who have gone through Enygma’s investor-ready programs. In her new book “Thinking Bigger: A Pitch Deck Formula For Women Who Want To Change the World,” Sarah shares the challenges of her own journey building a $100 million company and shares the critical building blocks needed to scale any business. Sarah is also the Co-Founder & CEO of Few & Far, a net positive travel/climate company investing in large-scale regeneration.

Christine and Sarah discuss:

· The ways in which internalized beliefs stop women from dreaming and “Thinking Bigger”

· Sarah’s journey with Enygma Ventures and how she found her way to investing in women’s businesses in South Africa

· Thinking Bigger and how we can change the opportunities and outcomes of women in business

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Sarah Dusek.

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Tess Millhollon and the HerHouse team are excited to help make travel easier, safer, and cheaper for women across the world. Support the Kickstarter here!

Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee. Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit www.sarah dusek.com.

Connect with Sarah on your favorite social media network! Instagram / LinkedIn

Learn more about the opening of the luxurious Few & Far Luvhondo.

Get your copy of Thinking Bigger A Pitch Deck Formula For Women Who Want To Change the World. 

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Sarah Dusek (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by ​@journeywoman_original​, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Hilary Matson as part of our Return to the Soul of Travel series.

Hilary Matson is the founder of Yugen Earthside, a curated platform connecting mindful travelers to responsible package trips. After nearly a decade at Amazon in Seattle, WA, and Paris, France, she earned an MBA at HEC-Paris while specializing in Entrepreneurship and Inclusive & Social Business. She launched Yugen Earthside in 2021 as a bootstrapped Social Purpose Corporation. Running this company is her dream job, allowing her to combine her love of travel with her passionate advocacy for sustainability.

Christine and Hilary discuss:

· Entrepreneur journeys and the growth of Yugen Earthside

· Creating responsible and sustainable travel platform models

· B-Corp certification and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

· Navigating marketing, visibility, and community in the travel industry

Join Christine for this soulful conversation with Hilary Matson.

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HerHouse is raising funding to get their app built natively by a professional developer team! Tess Millhollon and her team are excited to help make travel easier, safer, and cheaper for women across the world. Learn more and support the Kickstarter here!​

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We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

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Learn more about Yugen Earthside: https://www.yugenearthside.com/

Connect with Hilary and Yugen Earthside on your favorite social media network: Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook.

Looking for an adventure in South Africa? Learn more about Yugen Earthside’s upcoming trip!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Hilary Matson (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by ​@journeywoman_original​, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with JoAnna Haugen as part of our Return to the Soul of Travel series.

JoAnna Haugen is an award-winning writer, speaker, consultant, and solutions advocate. She is also founder of Rooted, a solutions platform at the intersection of sustainable and regenerative tourism practices, social impact, and storytelling. Through Rooted, JoAnna works with destinations, travel brands, tour operators, media and travel writers, and tourism professionals from around the world to unlock the power of strategic storytelling and tourism communications that shine a light on responsible tourism and destination stewardship.

Christine and JoAnna discuss:

· Connecting with our authentic selves and expressing that in our business

·  Challenges with embodying our true travel values

·  Exploring the ways in which barriers keep more travelers from being able to travel responsibly

·  How we can make choosing responsible travel a more frictionless experience

·  Getting ourselves outside of our comfort zones in our business

·  Learning from other industries and finding ways to inspire travelers and professionals to seek awareness, insights, and new ways to travel

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with JoAnna Haugen. 

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Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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Learn more and connect with JoAnna:https://rootedstorytelling.com/.

Connect with JoAnna on your favorite social media network! Instagram / LinkedIn

Subscribe to Rooted’s newsletter here.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). JoAnna Haugen (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Soul of Travel listener and past guest Becki Rupp would like to share her favorite conversation with Norie Quintos. 

Norie Quintos is a consultant for the travel industry on communications strategy, media relations, custom content, and messaging. She helps destinations and travel companies find and tell their stories through communications audits, seminars and training, coaching, and print and pixel projects. An award-winning journalist, she is a contributing editor to National Geographic Travel Media. Her interest areas are cultural tourism, indigenous tourism, regenerative tourism, diversity/equity/inclusion in travel, and transformational travel. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund and an advisor to Adventure Media, the Transformational Travel Council, Impact Travel Alliance, and Giving Way. Norie is the former executive editor of National Geographic Traveler and was an editor at U.S. News and World Report and Caribbean Travel and Life.

Christine and Norie discuss:

•  Why it is the responsibility of travel content creators to tell a more complete story

•  Slow travel and why it matters to destinations & travelers

•  How to use travel as a place to create peace and find a sense of belonging in travel

•  The beauty of finding a travel brand that supports impactful causes and empowers 

Join Becki and Christine now for this soulful replay with Norie Quintos.

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HerHouse is raising funding to get their app built natively by a professional developer team! Tess Millhollon and her team are excited to help make travel easier, safer, and cheaper for women across the world. Learn more and support the Kickstarter here!

Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

🌎​​​​​​​​

Learn more about Norie Quintos!

Follow Norie Quintos on your favorite social platform: Instagram / X / LinkedIn

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Norie Quintos (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, pro

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Soul of Travel listener Lars von der Wettern would like to share his favorite conversation with Siham Lahmine. 

Siham Lahmine is the ground businesswoman behind Morocco Travel Organizer. She is a well-known name in the world of high-end and customized travel. The fact that she started Morocco Travel Organizer shows how much she loves making unique travel experiences that connect deeply with the cultural richness of Morocco. Siham's 10+ years of work in the tourism industry are marked by her deep understanding of Morocco's rich cultural landscape. Siham's main goal with this business is to create itineraries that are more than just trips; they are life-changing experiences that meet and go beyond the expectations of travelers in Morocco who are looking for luxury and privacy.

Christine and Siham discuss:

· Launching and building a business in travel

·  The value of cultural exchange through travel

·  Empowering communities and women

·  The importance of intentional community collaboration in travel and tourism

Join Lars and Christine now for this soulful replay with Siham Lahmine.

🌎​​​​​​​​

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

🌎​​​​​​​​

Learn more and connect with Siham: https://moroccotravelorganizer.com 

Connect with Siham on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

Looking to explore an immersive Morocco culinary tour? Learn more here! 

Connect with Lars von der Wettern and learn more about Singular Places here.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Siham Lahmine (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Soul of Travel listener and guest Tara Busch would like to share her favorite conversation with Lydia Dean of Go Philanthropic.

At twenty-nine, Lydia Dean left Florida with her husband John and young children for a life-changing global journey, eventually settling in Provence, France. Her humanitarian work took her through India, Asia, and Latin America, leading to the creation of GoPhilanthropic Travel and GoPhilanthropic Foundation, connecting travelers with grassroots changemakers worldwide. Her two memoirs, Jumping the Picket Fence and Light through the Cracks, chronicle her experiences from living in Provence to working with human trafficking survivors in Nepal and India. Today, she and John run Only Provence and Provence Life while continuing their philanthropic work.

Christine and Lydia discuss:

· Why we seek powerful travel experiences

· How to give back in the most beneficial way while we travel

· The possibility that the most powerful parts of the Journey may be before and after we travel

· Truth, vulnerability, and connection for powerful change

Join Tara and Christine for this soulful replay with Lydia Dean. 

🌎​​​​​​​​

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Visit lydiadean.com to learn more about Lyda’s work and the Go Philanthropic Foundation.

Get in touch with Lydia on LinkedIn!

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Lydia Dean (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Soul of Travel listener Deborah Campagnaro would like to share her favorite conversation with Elisa Spampinato of Traveller Storyteller.

Elisa is passionate about travelling and people. Amazed by the richness of cultures and beauty that our world still retains, she is a profound believer that Tourism can be a crucial tool for positive change in the world. Supporting and promoting Community-Based Tourism and a respectful and sustainable tourism around the world is her fundamental mission.

Christine and Elisa discuss:

· How the work of community tourism helps people tell a story of two-way engagement

· The power of asking questions to find better questions

· Elisa’s powerful Community Storytelling workshops

· How ethical and responsible storytelling helps to break down stereotypes

· Ways to cultivate the stories of people and communities

Join Deborah and Christine for this soulful replay with Elisa Spampinato.

🌎​​​​​​​​

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Learn more about Elisa and Traveller Storyteller here.​

Follow Elisa and Traveller Storyteller on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Elisa Spampinato (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine shares a soulful solo episode honoring Women's History Month.

If you are new to the Soul of Travel community, we extend a warm welcome to you and would love to introduce the host, creator, and connector extraordinaire, Christine Winebrenner Irick.

Christine launched the Soul of Travel Podcast in 2021, and since has passionately educated and inspired listeners to embrace mindful travel and celebrate women making a positive and revolutionary impact in travel and tourism. Named one of "2023's Most Influential Women in Travel" by TravelPulse, her commitment to transformational travel and gender equity is evident in every episode, with her podcast earning a prestigious Bessie Award from Wanderful in 2022. Her belief that travel combined with meaningful connections can transform travelers into agents of change has led her to interview over 100 women from various countries who are creating positive global impact.

Christine also creates and guides transformational journeys to support gender equity, extending her influence beyond podcasting to champion purposeful travel and positive impact for women+. A mother of three daughters, she balances her professional passion with family exploration and finds joy in simple pleasures like reading and spending time in nature, drawing from her Montana roots. Through both her podcast and Lotus Sojourns, Christine has created an inclusive platform that amplifies diverse voices in tourism, consistently advocating for a more equitable and mindful approach to global exploration that inspires her audience to become conscious, compassionate travelers.

In this episode, Christine shares:

· Celebrations from our incredible Soul of Travel listener and guest community 

· Soul of Travel BEYOND, our new subscription platform

· Wisdom, inspiration, and upcoming insights into the growth of Soul of Travel 

Join Christine for this soulful episode.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Siham Lahmine.

Siham Lahmine is the ground businesswoman behind Morocco Travel Organizer. She is a well-known name in the world of high-end and customized travel. The fact that she started Morocco Travel Organizer shows how much she loves making unique travel experiences that connect deeply with the cultural richness of Morocco. Siham's 10+ years of work in the tourism industry are marked by her deep understanding of Morocco's rich cultural landscape. Siham's main goal with this business is to create itineraries that are more than just trips; they are life-changing experiences that meet and go beyond the expectations of travelers in Morocco who are looking for luxury and privacy.

Christine and Siham discuss:

·  Launching and building a business in travel

·  The value of cultural exchange through travel

·  Empowering communities and women

·  Personal growth through travel and adventure

·  The importance of intentional  community collaboration in travel and tourism

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Siham Lahmine.

🌎​​​​​​​​

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

🌎​​​​​​​​

Learn more and connect with Siham: https://moroccotravelorganizer.com 

Connect with Siham on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

Looking to explore an immersive Morocco culinary tour? Learn more here!

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Siham Lahmine (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Allison Fleece.

Allison Fleece is the co-founder of WHOA Travel, a boutique adventure travel company founded in 2013. Operating adventures and experiences on all seven continents for over 12 years, Allison has learned a thing or two about curating meaningful travel experiences. WHOA was founded as and is a leader in women’s adventure travel and in recent years has grown to expand their travel experiences to include more —families, corporate groups, custom experiences, solo travelers among others. WHOA’s thoughtful & unique style of adventuring has been recognized in publications such as the New York Times, Travel & Leisure, and National Geographic. WHOA is proudly Women Owned (WBENC), a member of 1% for the planet, and Allison serves as an Ambassador for the Adventure Travel Trade Association. 

Christine and Allison discuss:

·  The mountains we climb literally and figuratively in our business, our lives and in our travel experiences

·  How the values that have carried WHOA travel from day one persist through today 

· Focusing on supporting and empowering women as travelers as well as elevating women in the adventure travel industry globally

· Climbing Kilimanjaro

·  The value of group travel and the ways WOAH supports UNSDG’s

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Allison Fleece.

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LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation on Buy Me a Coffee. Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts!

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Learn more and connect with Allison https://www.whoatravel.com 

Connect with Allison on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

🌎​​​​​​​​

Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Allison Fleece (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this special International Women’s Day episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, we are thrilled to share the inspiring wmnsWORK 2025 Demo Day presentations.

wmnsWORK helps women and non-binary folks build thriving tourism businesses through education, mentorship and community. wmnsWORK is an accelerator focused on women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs designed to help you get a leg up on your tourism business and rally a community while you build it. They do this through 3 main pillars: Education, Mentorship, and Community.

The goal of wmnsWORK is to flatten the learning curve when it comes to industry knowledge and entrepreneurship, helping you reach your goals faster and with more fun through 12 weeks of expert-led workshops, mentorship, and community.

Demo Day is your chance to learn more about what these inspiring wmnsWORK Cohort 5 grads have been up to. They've worked so hard to refine their pitches and business offerings, and are excited to share them with the tourism industry at large. Through each company's 5-minute pitch, you'll get a glimpse of their passion and dedication as they unveil their unique ventures to fellow members of the tourism industry, and learn how YOU can support them. From tour operators to travel designers, it's a diverse lineup that captures the essence of the evolving tourism landscape. We encourage you to connect and collaborate with these fabulous wmn+!

Featuring Buoyant Travel, GINI, Common Healing, AdventurUs, Transformative Journeys, ATWASI, Komasa Collection, Scotland Hikes and Tours, Immersive Local Adventures (ILA), and Off Da Rock Bahamas.

Join us for this special soulful presentation from the graduates of WmnsWork Cohort 5 in celebration of both International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month. 

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Make a difference by making a donation on Buy Me a Coffee. Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

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Visit https://wmnswork.com/ to learn more about the Tourism Business Accelerator program and support their efforts to support women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs.

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). wmnsWORK Tourism Business Accelerator Cohort 5 Graduates. Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Dr. Rachel Graham.

Dr. Rachel T. Graham is the founder and Executive Director of the international non-profit MarAlliance. Dr. Graham is an award-winning marine conservation scientist with over 30 years living in Central America and experience in development, environment and marine projects in Latin America, Africa, and Oceania. She and her team work towards win-win strategies to rewild the seas with endangered marine wildlife while improving local knowledge, livelihoods, and leadership capacities, notably to improve the sustainability of small-scale fisheries and wildlife tourism to build resilience in the face of impacts such as pandemics and climate change. Her innovative and collaborative work set standards and critical baselines to measure marine wildlife populations, and led to conservation and policy wins, notably the creation and expansion of protected areas, marine species protection, and a first with the ban of fishing nets in Belize. She is most proud of her two sea-loving boys and her diverse and talented team at MarAlliance. 

Christine and Rachel discuss:

· The importance of collaboration and involving local communities and fishermen in marine conservation

· The ways she brings purpose, nature and connection into developing conservation programs

·  How tourism can be designed to strengthen conservation efforts

· Efforts to get women more involved in science & conservation and SCUBA diving in Guna Yala, Panama

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Rachel Graham.

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Make a difference by making a donation on Buy Me a Coffee.

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

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Learn more about MarAlliance and connect with Rachel: https://www.maralliance.org

Connect with Rachel on your favorite social media network! Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Dr. Rachel Graham (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

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In this episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine hosts a soulful conversation with Zoe Shapiro.

When Zoe moved to Italy for what she thought would be one year of remote work, she found herself drawn to a culture that prioritized pleasure and personality over professional credentials. She discovered a new way of experiencing life and found that she couldn’t leave. Her lifelong passion for travel had always driven her forward, never letting budget constraints or solo status hinder her adventures. She launched Stellavision to provide a unique platform that celebrates and connects smart, independent women who share her vision of immersive, culturally rich travel experiences, focusing particularly on introducing travelers to Italy's hidden gems and authentic cultural pulse.

Christine and Zoe discuss:

· The year-long adventure to Italy that became a lifelong journey

· Creating a welcoming and inclusive travel experience, especially creating size-inclusive travel

· The fun and freedom women can have when traveling in smaller groups

Join Christine now for this soulful conversation with Zoe Shapiro.

🌎​​​​​​​​

LOVE these soulful conversations? We rely on listener support to produce our podcast! Make a difference by making a donation to Lotus Sojourns on Buy Me a Coffee.

Are you a Soul of Travel subscriber? Click here to subscribe to Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss the latest episodes!

Listener reviews help expand our reach and help us rise up the ranks! Rate and review your favorite episodes on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app.

🌎​​

Learn more about Stellavision Travel and connect with Zoe: stellavisiontravel.com 

Connect with Zoe on Instagram!

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Looking for ways to be a part of the Lotus Sojourns community? Learn more here!

Find Lotus Sojourns on Facebook, or join the Lotus Sojourns Collective, our FB community for like-hearted women. Find solo travel trips for women over 50 on JourneyWoman.

Follow us on Instagram: @journeywoman_original, @lotussojourns and @souloftravelpodcast.

Credits. Christine Winebrenner Irick (Host, creator, editor). Zoe Shapiro (Guest). Original music by Clark Adams. Editing, production, and content writing by Carly Oduardo.

Support the show