Welcome to Freedom to Take Off, this is a podcast for those ready to embrace new adventures; whether that means traveling more, building a flexible business, or gaining financial independence.
I’m Kim Cooper, a lifelong traveler and mentor, and I found a way to make travel not just a passion but a business that gives me the freedom to work from anywhere. Now, I help others do the same." My only regret is I wish I had started this years ago!
So, if you’re ready to create a life where you call the shots; where you can travel, earn, and live on your terms, you’re in the right place.
Let’s take off!
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Have you ever wondered what it would really be like to turn your passion for travel into a business?
In this episode of the podcast, I sit down with my friend and travel colleague Carmen Roberts, a seasoned BBC travel journalist and TV presenter, to explore why running a travel business is not only possible but deeply rewarding.
Carmen shares her journey of moving from traditional media into the world of travel entrepreneurship, explaining how changes in the industry pushed her to rethink her career. With over 20 years of experience, more than 85 countries visited, and countless stories to tell, Carmen discovered that the travel business was a natural extension of what she already loved: helping people plan and experience incredible adventures.
What really stood out to me in this conversation was how personal this journey is. It’s about so much more than holidays or commissions. Carmen and I talked about the unexpected gift of community, the confidence we’ve both gained, and the opportunities that come when you’re brave enough to step outside your comfort zone. We reflected on the joy of seeing others succeed, the friendships that form along the way, and the shared excitement of planning future trips together.
This episode dives into leadership, resilience, and the courage it takes to start something new. Whether you are a travel lover, a budding entrepreneur, or someone searching for more freedom in your life, I hope our discussion shows you that running a travel business is about creating a life on your terms.
Timestamps:
00:40 – Meet Carmen Roberts, BBC travel presenter and journalist
01:31 – How the travel media industry has changed since COVID
03:25 – Turning years of recommendations into a profitable travel business
05:19 – Using Instagram to share travel stories and generate bookings
06:14 – Building community through coffee mornings and events
12:01 – Discovering leadership and self-confidence through business
14:50 – Why starting young could be life-changing
15:49 – The reality: effort and commitment bring rewards
Key Lessons Learned:
The travel industry is evolving, and traditional media is no longer the only pathway.
Personal recommendations can be transformed into a thriving business opportunity.
Community is a vital part of running a travel business, providing support and inspiration.
Confidence grows when you step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges.
Running a travel business requires effort, but with commitment, the rewards are significant.
Keywords:
travel business, running a travel business, BBC travel journalist, travel entrepreneurship, starting a travel business, travel industry changes, benefits of a travel business, confidence in business, community in travel, travel business opportunities
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
Combining Passion with Business
Season 1 · Episode 9
Monday, August 25, 2025 • Duration 26:09
Have you ever wondered how you could turn something you love into a thriving business that also serves your community?
In this episode of Freedom to Take Off, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Louise, the owner of the Tandridge Independent, our local newspaper. What struck me most during our conversation was how passion, persistence and community spirit can merge to create a sustainable business that makes a real difference.
Louise took over the paper in 2019 after 18 years working at the BBC. Without a business background, she stepped into the unknown, balancing journalism with the steep learning curve of advertising and operations. What I loved about this discussion was hearing how she navigated those challenges while raising three children and staying rooted in her local area.
We spoke about the evolution of local news, the pressures of print media, and the joy of seeing community members pick up the paper with enthusiasm month after month. Louise shared how she and her small but dedicated team keep the publication alive through creativity, collaboration and trust.
This conversation also reminded me of the power of collaboration. Writing my monthly travel column for the paper has given me a platform to share stories of travel and inspire others to explore. In return, it has helped to build awareness of my own business. Together, we’ve created a partnership that shows how supporting one another’s ventures can benefit both businesses and the community at large.
What I reflected on most was that combining passion with business is rarely a straight road. It’s about showing up, learning new skills, and being open to opportunities you never expected. From lockdown radio shows to community events, Louise has proved that resilience and creativity can keep a business not only alive but thriving.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your passion could become your business, this episode offers inspiration, practical wisdom and the reassurance that you don’t need to have it all figured out to begin.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome to Freedom to Take Off
Key Lessons Learned: Keywords:
Perks of Owning your own Travel Business
Season 1 · Episode 8
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 • Duration 09:06
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to blend business growth with unforgettable travel experiences?
In this episode I take you behind the scenes of one of the most extraordinary weekends of my life, a trip to Monaco that was so much more than luxury hotels and helicopter rides. It was a powerful reminder of the perks, personal growth, and genuine connections that come with running your own travel business.
When I first joined this business, I never imagined I’d find myself stepping off a helicopter on the shores of Monaco, attending world-class events, and sharing meals with like-minded entrepreneurs from all over the world. Last year, my friend Catherine and I went for the first time, booking the cheapest room we could find and travelling by taxi. This year, we decided to go all in – a sea view room at the Fairmont and a helicopter transfer from Nice. The feeling of being greeted by name, bags whisked away, and stepping onto that rooftop lounge set the tone for the whole weekend.
From rooftop conversations at Nicky Beach to beachfront dinners and early morning training sessions with our CEO, the trip was filled with inspiration. I met people who have been in the business for years, some brand new and brave enough to attend their very first event. We learned from three incredible directors, each sharing their journey and reminding us that success isn’t about copying others, it’s about staying true to who you are and building your business in a way that feels authentic.
The advice that resonated most? People join people, not businesses. The right team members will connect with your personality, your values, and your way of working. It’s a lesson that has shaped how I want to grow moving forward.
Of course, it wasn’t all work. The white gala dinner overlooking the sea, complete with live music and dancing, was the perfect celebration of community and achievement. By the time I boarded the helicopter back to Nice, I felt not only grateful for the trip, but excited for what’s next, Orlando, Turks and Caicos, and the big London event in November.
If you’ve ever considered starting your own travel business, this episode shows what’s possible when you say yes to new opportunities.
Why Now is the Time to Start your Travel Business with Lisa Francesca Nand
Season 1 · Episode 7
Monday, July 28, 2025 • Duration 34:10
Have you ever found yourself dreaming of more freedom, but unsure how to make it happen?
In this episode of Freedom to Take Off, I speak with the remarkable Lisa Francesca Nand, travel journalist, podcaster, and entrepreneurial powerhouse, about how a career steeped in storytelling and luxury travel evolved into something unexpected yet deeply fulfilling: building a business in the world of travel.
Lisa and I were introduced through a mutual friend, and since then, she’s become not just a trusted colleague but a true friend. Our conversation reflects the kind of uplifting energy and honest ambition that defines this journey.
We dive into Lisa’s story, from being the first female presenter on TalkSport, to becoming a well-known travel expert on the BBC, to starting The Big Travel Podcast, which has reached listeners in over 160 countries. But behind the glamour of luxury press trips and award-winning journalism, Lisa faced an all-too-common reality: the industry was changing, and the income wasn’t sustainable. She needed something more.
This episode is about the why behind her decision to become an independent travel agent and partner in a network marketing travel business. And more than that, it’s about mindset, freedom, community, and what it means to design life on your own terms.
We touch on:
The decline of traditional media and the push towards entrepreneurship
Why so many of us are already acting as travel agents without realising it
How travel booking turned into a six-figure opportunity
Lisa’s vision for financial and time freedom as a single parent
Why the network marketing model surprised her in all the best ways
Throughout our chat, what shines through is Lisa’s clarity, humour and genuine belief in the opportunity she’s found. Whether you're sceptical, curious, or already on your own entrepreneurial path, Lisa's journey is one that will challenge your thinking and expand your sense of what's possible.
Timestamps:
Network Marketing - Why It’s Not as Scary as You Think
Season 1 · Episode 6
Monday, July 14, 2025 • Duration 07:21
Have you ever dismissed network marketing because of outdated assumptions or fear of judgement?
When I first heard the term network marketing, I, like so many others in the UK, was sceptical. I thought it was one of those things, a pyramid scheme or something where people earned money off the backs of others. I made up my mind that I would never go near it. Yet here I am, sharing my own reflections on how this form of business has completely reshaped my views, my work, and ultimately, my life.
In this episode, I wanted to open up about the network marketing side of my business. I’ve spoken before about why I started this journey and how it has unfolded. You’ve heard from some of my wonderful team too. But today’s focus is on clearing up some of the biggest misconceptions around this often-misunderstood world.
What I’ve come to realise is this: network marketing is simply about sharing an incredible product, in my case, travel with people who can genuinely benefit. It’s a model that rewards those who are willing to help others succeed. And it’s far removed from the tired old clichés we’ve all heard before.
It’s not about building an empire on the backs of others. It’s about duplication, teamwork and freedom. My team has grown to over 130 people, each of them doing this in their own way, on their own terms. Some build big teams, others prefer to keep things smaller. Either way, the opportunity is theirs to shape.
I’ve reflected a lot on the contrast between this work and my former 9-to-5. In a corporate world, you’re helping to build someone else’s dream. Here, I’m helping others build their own futures. Whether it’s a parent working around the school run, someone seeking community after retirement, or someone young chasing both income and adventure, the flexibility and empowerment are undeniable.
The events are another huge part of the journey. From coffee mornings to weekends in Monaco, it’s a world full of connection, support and inspiration. I’ve met people earning six figures who started exactly where I did with self-doubt and a desire for something more.
What I’ve learned is this: network marketing rewards determination, consistency and belief. It offers flexibility, purpose and an income that’s both residual and willable, something that could benefit not only my children but their children too.
How Everyone can Start their own Travel Business
Season 1 · Episode 5
Monday, June 30, 2025 • Duration 28:53
In this episode I talk with two of my team members Lucy and Jo as they share how they got started with their own travel business and how they are growing it alongside a full time career and parenting, and why they're not going to stop.
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
Why Start a Travel Business
Season 1 · Episode 4
Monday, June 16, 2025 • Duration 25:23
Why start a Travel Business?
In this episode of Freedom to Take Off, Kim interviews her friend Katherine about their journey into the travel business. They discuss how they discovered the opportunity, the importance of building a community, and the benefits of creating passive income.
The conversation also touches on travel trends, the power of networking, and the diverse experiences that come with being part of this business.
Both Kim and Katherine emphasise the importance of taking control of one's financial future and encourage listeners to explore opportunities that align with their passions.
Key Takeaways:
Catherine discovered the travel business opportunity online and jumped in.
The journey started as a way to book personal travel efficiently.
Creating multiple streams of income is essential for financial security.
Building a supportive community is crucial for success in business.
Passive income can replace traditional retirement savings.
Traveling extensively has become more accessible and affordable post-COVID.
The travel business allows for flexibility and fits around other jobs.
Networking is key to building a successful business.
Diverse experiences in travel can lead to personal growth and learning.
Opportunities in business should be embraced without hesitation.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
03:11 Discovering the Opportunity
05:55 Building a Community
08:59 The Importance of Passive Income
12:04 Travel Business Insights
15:02 Diverse Experiences and Learning
17:56 Travel Trends and Future Plans
20:57 The Power of Networking
23:53 Conclusion and Reflections
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack:
How I am Growing a Travel Business
Season 1 · Episode 3
Monday, June 9, 2025 • Duration 06:13
What does the future of my travel business look like? And how can you build one too?
Welcome back to Freedom to Take Off! Over the past episodes, I’ve shared my journey, rom turning travel into a business to helping others create their own path to flexibility and independence. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of how my business is growing and where I see it going next.
If you told me years ago that I’d be leading a team of over 110 people, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am building something that not only fuels my passion for travel but also helps others do the same. My team spans the UK, Ireland, the U.S., and the Caribbean, with even more countries joining us soon. And the best part? I get to support them every step of the way, through training, community events, and hands-on mentorship.
Helping my team grow is just as rewarding as growing my own business. Whether it's answering questions, hosting coffee mornings, or hopping on Zoom calls with members across the globe, I’m here to make sure no one feels lost. When I first started, I had doubts, especially about the business side of things. I told myself I’d stick to booking travel, but looking back, I realise that was a huge mistake. I now love the business-building aspect and wish I’d embraced it sooner.
The beauty of this journey is the freedom to shape it how you want. Some in my team focus on personal travel, while others build incredible niche businesses, luxury, safari, solo trips, cruises, and even Contiki tours. One of my team members travels with groups of fifteen, earns commission, gets her place for free, and then signs them up when they return home. How clever is that?
For me, the future looks like continued growth, building this business, traveling as much as I can with my family and friends, and working towards my ultimate goal: retiring my husband. This business has given me new dreams and ambitions I never thought I'd have, and I wouldn't change it for the world.
If you’re considering taking that first step, just know, you don’t have to do it alone. It’s an exciting and flexible opportunity that can fit into your life however you choose. And who knows? You could be the next success story, turning a passion into something life-changing.
How my Travel Business Gave me Freedom
Season 1 · Episode 2
Monday, June 9, 2025 • Duration 09:22
Ever wondered what it’s really like to run a travel business and how it can completely transform your life?
In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of what life has looked like since I started my travel business and how it’s become something so much more than just a job. It’s opened doors I never imagined possible: doors to new cities, dream hotels, unforgettable experiences, and friendships I’ll treasure forever.
Over the last 18 months, I’ve booked over £100,000 in travel for clients. That number still stuns me. Not just because of the bookings but because of the lifestyle that came with it. I’ve travelled more in the past year than I had in the previous decade, ticking off bucket list adventures and exploring the world with my family in ways we once only dreamed of.
From skiing in France and Austria to cruising under the Northern Lights in Iceland, from Lake Como with my daughter to a girls’ trip in Ibiza this business hasn’t just given me a new career; it’s given me more life. And yes, I’ve earned commission on every booking, whether for clients or my own trips.
And the best part? I’ve done all this while learning, growing, and gaining confidence in ways I never thought possible with incredible support, expert suppliers just a call away, and zero pressure to "hit targets". It’s entirely on your terms.
In this episode, I share:
How I turned family holidays into business opportunities
The personal touches that make clients come back again and again
The perks of being a travel agent, from upgrades to exclusive events
My favourite travel agent conventions and why they’re unlike anything else
The two sides of the business: travel booking and marketing
What passive income really means, and how it changed everything for me
Inspiring stories from others in the business, aged 20 to 60+
My upcoming trips to Porto, Monaco, and Orlando, and why they’re more than just holidays
Key lessons:
You grow through doing, confidence comes from experience, not perfection.
Why I Started a Travel Business
Season 1 · Episode 1
Monday, June 9, 2025 • Duration 07:08
Have you ever reached a point in life where you finally had time for yourself and wondered what to do with it?
For me, that moment came when all three of my wonderful kids; Harry, Charlie and Molly, had grown up and flown the nest. For the first time in decades, I had space to do something just for me. What started as a simple curiosity quickly turned into a full-blown travel business, and in this first episode of Freedom to Take Off, I’m sharing the honest, behind-the-scenes story of how it all began.
I’ll take you through my journey from expat life in Romania and Budapest, to returning to the UK and reigniting my passion for travel in an entirely new way. You'll hear how I overcame my doubts (and my Scottish scepticism!) to step into something I never thought possible, running my own business in an industry I’d never worked in, and loving every minute of it.
It wasn’t just about travel; it was about confidence, identity, and discovering that it’s never too late to start again.
What I cover in this episode:
Why I started my travel business after 20+ years out of work
How I went from booking our own family trips to earning commission on holidays, concerts, and events
The incredible support and training available, even with no prior experience
What it actually means to run a travel business from anywhere (yes, even from a corner suite at Malmaison!)
Why this opportunity works for everyone, from mums and nurses to CEOs and students
How you can get commission on travel you’re already booking
The freedom of choosing your own hours, clients, and location, with no sales pressure or targets
Key lessons:
It’s never too late to start something new, no matter how long you’ve been away from traditional work.
Saying “yes” to something outside your comfort zone can lead to an entirely new life.
You don’t need experience to succeed, you just need curiosity, community, and a willingness to learn.
The travel you’re already doing can earn you money, with the right tools and platform.
02:15 – Introducing Louise and the Tandridge Independent
06:45 – The challenges and rewards of running a local newspaper
12:10 – Adapting through the pandemic
18:20 – The role of community support and collaboration
25:00 – Building business skills without a business background
32:00 – Travel, lifestyle, and making business family-friendly
38:30 – Reflections on passion, resilience, and growth
Local businesses thrive when rooted in genuine community support.
Collaboration opens unexpected opportunities for growth and visibility.
You don’t need to come from a business background to succeed as an entrepreneur.
Resilience, creativity and adaptability are key to navigating uncertain times.
Turning passion into business is about consistency and trust as much as enthusiasm.
combining passion with business, building a flexible business, local newspaper success, entrepreneurship journey, community support in business, travel business opportunities, working from anywhere, resilience in business, balancing business and family, turning passion into profit,
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
Timestamps
00:01 – Arriving in Monaco in style: my helicopter experience
02:26 – Building connections at Nicky Beach
03:45 – Inside the Saturday morning training with our CEO
04:43 – The unforgettable white gala dinner
07:35 – Lessons from three top directors
09:57 – Different ways to grow your business
10:45 – Upcoming events and why they matter
Key Lessons Learned
People join people – authenticity is essential for building a strong team.
Success is a long game – consistency over four to five years is the proven blueprint.
Events provide unique value – the conversations and inspiration are as important as formal training.
Build your business in a way that fits your personality and strengths.
Invest in experiences – they can inspire you and fuel your motivation.
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
00:00 – Intro and how Lisa and I met
01:30 – Leaving your comfort zone and discovering confidence
02:28 – Lisa’s background as a journalist and podcaster
05:17 – The real cost of free press trips and a changing industry
06:40 – Why Lisa joined the travel business
09:10 – The cost of starting a traditional business vs. this model
11:20 – Debunking myths about network marketing
13:40 – Residual income, willable income, and real freedom
17:34 – Creating a supportive community of like-minded women
18:30 – Breaking free from the employee mindset
21:05 – What freedom means as a single mum
25:25 – Bringing entrepreneurs and influencers into the travel space
30:53 – What “momentum” means in this business model
33:38 – Why now is the time to get involved
Key Lessons Learned:
Step outside your comfort zone: True growth often begins where familiarity ends.
Journalism and traditional industries are evolving: To thrive, we need to think like entrepreneurs.
We’re already travel agents: If you're researching, booking, and recommending travel, you’re already doing the work.
Affordable business opportunities exist: You can launch an ABTA-protected travel business for less than £1.50 a day.
Network marketing can be genuine: When rooted in trust, belief, and transparency, it becomes a force for good.
Your ‘why’ matters: Freedom, flexibility, and financial security are powerful motivators.
Timing is key: With the business entering momentum, now is a critical window for growth.
Keywords:
travel business, network marketing UK, travel agent opportunity, time freedom, financial freedom, ABTA protected, travel podcast UK, entrepreneurial mindset, residual income, working from home UK,
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
So, if you’ve been quick to judge network marketing, maybe now’s the time to take another look.
Timestamps:
00:00 – My initial scepticism about network marketing 01:30 – Why this isn’t a pyramid scheme 02:40 – How duplication works and why it’s so powerful 03:50 – Why this offers more than a 9-to-5 ever could 05:00 – The community, events and opportunities for growth 06:30 – Flexibility for all life stages 07:45 – The reality of residual income and long-term vision 09:00 – The power of training, support and mindset
Key Lessons Learned:
Network marketing is misunderstood but offers genuine, flexible opportunities
Duplication means you don’t have to carry the weight alone
Community and support are central, not competition
Success comes from consistency and determination, not luck
Income is residual, willable and scalable
You can build it around your life, not the other way round
Events and training foster growth, connection and joy
Keywords:
network marketing, network marketing UK, freedom to work from anywhere, residual income flexible business opportunities, network marketing myths, travel business opportunity, build your own business, women in business UK, network marketing success stories,
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
Key Lessons Learnt:
Support & Mentorship Matter: Having a strong support system in business, whether through colleagues, mentors, or training, can make a huge difference.
Flexibility & Growth: You can shape your business in the way that works for you, whether it's a side hustle or a full-time career.
Niche Marketing Works: Finding your niche, from luxury packages to solo holidays, can be a powerful way to stand out.
Opportunities Are Everywhere: You never know who might be interested in starting their own travel business, sometimes, all it takes is sharing the opportunity.
Thinking Long-Term: The residual income and compensation plan structure make this business scalable and sustainable.
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning in to Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
The travel industry is about relationships, with clients, suppliers, and fellow agents.
There’s more than one way to build this business, you can focus on bookings, marketing, or both.
Passive income is real, and can create long-term security and legacy.
Surrounding yourself with supportive people matters, this is a community that cheers you on.
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning into Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
There’s no one way to do this business, it truly fits around your life, whether as a side hustle or full-time gig.
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to learn more about starting your own travel business? Email me for a free information pack: kimcooper99@gmail.com
Thanks so much for tuning into the very first episode of Freedom to Take Off. If you’re feeling that itch to do something for you, to travel more, and to take control of your time and income, I’m here to help.
Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and let’s take off together.
