Our epic guest this week, Melissa Rodway, is the creator and host of FLY Travel Radio and author of the book, "The People You Meet: Luxury, Leeches, Love, and Lao-Lao".

Melissa lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada; where the toilets are amazing. She joins us to talk about her new book and to reflect on a few memories of her venturesome journey through Southeast Asia. 

Book link on Amazon: https://a.co/d/db1jnK1

Instagram link: @fly_travel_media

Today's podcast is just a good ol' fashioned conversation about traveling. I believe that sharing stories with a dear friend can instantly boost your mood and activate your wanderlust (endorphins overload).

Our guest today, Henry McClain, has traveled all over the world and his enthusiasm for planet earth is contagious! He's the opposite of boring and he brings his travel stories to life. If this makes any sense, Henry is like a dress with pockets for the soul. 

This power couple, Mike and Natalie, join us this week to relive their adventures of traveling the world together as they continued to fall deeper in love with each other. Natalie and Mike traveled for almost a year throughout parts of Central and South America on their first go-around. They had so much fun the first time, they took off for another 9 months through Europe. They are definitely the type of couple that we hashtag with the phrase #relationshipgoals. So, check out a small portion of their beautiful story on one of your evenings strolls this week! 

"We have always kind of lived our life easily inspired". That is the mindset of this week's guest, my brother, Ryan Skelton. He is a traveler that allows the world to impress him.

 Ryan has traversed through seventy countries and lived abroad with his wife for almost 11 years. On this week's episode, we embark on an adventure through the soaring mountains of Nepal as we enjoy the powerful feeling that we receive when we listen to a good story, compliments of my brother. 

This week's guest, Tasha Cortesi, has a gift for retracing her vivid memories for a story, living in the moment, and making new best friends wherever she travels! She passionately shares her guided adventures through Patagonia as she expresses her new devotion to finding the spirit of Träkál, which is a spirit created to honor Patagonia.  Though Tasha discovered that no article of clothing is actually waterproof and tents work best when they are tied down....her positive outlook on respecting nature and being present in every moment will inspire you to book your next trip to a place that's your version of magic. 

This week's fabulous guest, Callie, divulges stories from her 14- month road trip across the United States in her trusty RV with her amazing husband.  As first mate of their RV, Callie navigated around the country and explored dozens of National Parks. They began by joining the snow birds in Florida and then made their way West, making friends and living their best lives. So, join Callie for a few tips and a lot of inspiration if you have a desire to sell everything, buy an RV and just go! 

Through my wave of excitement, I got to interview this week's guest from her computer room in McMurdo Station,  Antarctica. Katy's original goal was to reach the continent without breaking the bank. With determination, she applied multiple times for support staff positions within research bases on the frozen world of Antarctica. She's now living out one of her dreams in a destination where true, pure adventure still lives. Join Katie on our pod this week as she gives us a little glimpse of her remote world. 

After years of a friendship that requires little nurturing, I got to sit down and catch up with my dear friend, Tennah. Her positive energy and  her enthusiasm for being her authentic self is something you can feel when she speaks. Tennah took the time to entertain me with a few of her special travel memories from the past while reminding me of the importance of friendship!

In the spirit of solo travel, I attempted a solo podcast. Though  I'm more interested in hearing the travel stories of fellow travelers, there was a peace in reliving my memories through my story-telling. For all those people that are teetering with the idea of a solo travel trip...let me be the person that tells you to just do it! There is beauty to be found everywhere and we sometimes see life in a deeper form when we are focused on ourselves and not distracted by the routine of others. I encourage that you introduce one good solo trip into your life! 

This week I interviewed the owner/operator of Travel Light, Melanie Tucci. She's participated in a whirlwind of adventures through 32 countries and has a passion for planning adventure travel trips so people can experience the world in new and exciting ways! Melanie is an avid hiker and "Type 2 fun" kind of girl. Join us as she lights the fire of wanderlust within us and enlist on one of her upcoming trips! You can find all her information on IG @traveltooch. Her photos will make you want to jump on the next plane out of town! 

Katie Skelton joined us for another amazing interview on the pod! Katie was a teacher overseas for a decade and she shares some of her amazing knowledge and tips for anybody that may be teetering with the idea of teaching abroad. For those passionate about teaching children and seeing the world, just know that you CAN do it and Katie is here to remind you of that! 

Brittany and Adam have traversed the globe as a couple for the past twelve years and it's brought them closer than ever. It started with Brittany's itch to move abroad and after a  six-pack and ten very convincing google images of Vietnam, Adam agreed to leave everything behind and they moved to Ho Chi Ming with high hopes of finding a job in the world of teaching abroad. Two-weeks and a few interviews later, their adventures began in teaching English and they never regretted a minute of it. Join Adam and Brittany this week on the pod as they give us some insight on teaching English in Egypt and Vietnam and maybe....just maybe.... you will be inspired. 

This week's epic guest, Paxton, is a Washingtonian who guides us through her day- hike of The Enchantments. This hike is in a region within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. If you're a wilderness lover, put this on your list!  

Paxton shares her perspective that being on the trail is a reminder of gratitude and she also expresses, "I think there is a lot of value in choosing to do hard stuff". Her positive outlook on being in nature and appreciating yourself is a beautiful reminder to acknowledge what your body can do and not what it can't do. 

Highlights on The Enchantment hike:

• So many GOATS! 
• Colchuck Lake 
• Aasgard Pass

Two more Washington hikes that she urges you to check out:

• Blanca Lake Trail 
• Oyster Dome 

Items she recommends for hiking:

• Headlamp
• Water Purifier 
• Brooks trail runners (she never gets blisters with these shoes)

If you haven't heard of The Enchantments, click on the Washington Trails Association link below to get any extra information that you may need to plan your hike! 

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/enchantment-lakes

Join this week's guest, Jason, for the second half of a good conversation on travel. Although a three-hour conversation tends to be one of our shorter ones, we skim popular and controversial topics that revolve around the world of wanderlusting such as technology vs. travel, over-tourism, women traveling alone, and learning about different cultures. Maybe this will even spark a good debate between you and your own travel partner....so enjoy! 

The Narrows is an appropriately named hike considering that it is the narrowest section in Zion Canyon in Zion National park. Though the description of this place can be intimidating, it's a wet trail that calls to hikers of all experience levels. This week my pal Jason joins the show to educate us on what to expect if you're planning on paying a visit to this incredible and specific spot in Utah. He goes into detail on what you need to pack, where you should camp and how to prepare for this unforgettable trek. Jason's tips will encourage you to start planning that next hike and make you energized for some adventure. So, take a listen to part 1 of 2 episodes and get prepared to take a trip outside! 

*Side Note: Before you plan this trip, check Zion's website for any updates and resources because National Parks change their rules and regulations seasonally. 

Although you can spend years discovering all that Germany and Switzerland have to offer, it's worth it to take any amount of time and explore any city that's calling your name! Briana, a 26-year old musician and Ultrasonographer from Atlanta, took 11 days with her hubby to scout out some awesome cities with the help of their Eurail passes. They experienced the high altitudes of Jungfraujoch which sits over 11,000 feet above sea level (it will take your breath away just by googling it). Briana and her husband Wyatt bar-hopped through pubs in Munich where the standard for beer is high. They remind us that traveling with your loved ones is a beautiful experience in life! So, join us as Briana gives us some tips and recommendations on traveling across the pond. 

PS. If you need to download some music for that next trip, check out her band: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3d4eWd5oLLOWdCZRMObfIz?si=LvuXeAqqSJO7qkK7nZ38XQ&nd=1

This week's guest is no stranger to road trips and four-day weekends.  The one and only Kelly Dugan joins the world of podcasting where her inventive way to create humor is appreciated and her honesty doesn't go unnoticed. Kelly reminds us that weekend trips can be the antidote we need when we are feeling like we are in a rut. So, join Kelly and I as we reminisce on the stories that entail failed roller skating adventures, being woefully unprepared on Cumberland Island, and her passion for food safety. We hope that our stories will remind you of the joy that comes from planning short getaways with the people that you love. 

My one and only daughter has been my road dog since the day she was born. With the celebration of her high school graduation, I wanted to take time to reflect with her on just a few of her travel experiences. Her shyness and humility is part of her beauty, so I wasn't sure if she would humor me with a public podcast episode. But she indulged me and comfortably sat with me, as mother and daughters do, and chatted with me about her perspective on travel. She's stepped foot on 5 continents and at least 20 US states, and  she's rarely complained about the difficulties that accompany travel.  But whether she travels for the rest of her life or never again.... I am and always will be proud of her. 

Our guest this week, Debbie Chand, steals the show as she provides us with tips for traveling throughout India, not to be confused with Indiana. Debbie was born in the U.S.A and her father is from India. She has explored India in depth and provides us with her "to-do" list that she recommends. Join our podcast for some great travel advice and some "I almost died" stories, compliments of Debbie Chand. 

Join us on this week's podcast as we talk in depth with an amazing friend of mine,  Mike DiLonardo.  Mike has mastered the art of travel and now uses its benefits to do what he loves doing most, play golf. When he was fifteen years old, he started playing any course he could get his hands on. Now, he's on a search for top luxury golf courses across the globe and he enjoys it most when he's playing a round with his dad. 

The culture of rock climbing in Yosemite National Park is a way of life that I have always admired with a dash of jealously. But whether you are an avid climber or an individual who has respect for the artistry of Mother Nature, Yosemite is a place to visit where peace finds you. Visit our podcast this week to meet Chris Law, an incredibly entertaining outdoor enthusiast who has lived in the culture of the wall. He gives helpful travel tips and encourages everyone to go, at least once in their life, to Yosemite National Park. 

Frederick Murphy, aka "Murph", is the founder and artistic creator of the project, History Before Us. Murph is a licensed therapist who used the canvas of the United States to get back to the thing that he really loved to do...which was creating oral histories by interviewing people on  their specified experience during Jim Crow. Since then, he has used his belief in the power of storytelling to invest in the lives of others. He doesn't use travel solely as a recreational piece, but he travels with purpose and the intent to keep history alive. Check out his website at https://www.historybeforeus.com/ for full details on his past and upcoming projects. Now enjoy this personal interview with our guest host, Aaron Moon, as we dive into the innovative mind of Frederick Murphy. 

There are people that are overwhelmed with a level of discomfort when they are asked to share their feelings and sentiments about life. Jay is not one of those people. On the contrary, he is a person who shares the details of his emotions without a morsel of apology. So, listening to Jay discuss how he sees the world through the viewpoint of a traveler is an experience that will unlock something inside of you. Join us this week as we discuss his admirations for travel and his advice on stepping outside of your comfort zone and just going. 

Are you looking for travel ideas? Where should you go next? How do you decide on an itinerary? 

The owners and operators of Travel Light Adventures joined our podcast again to share some of their updated knowledge on their 9-week trip through Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Nepal! This dynamic duo, Melanie and Enzo, traveled with one of their best friends through Asia and together they shared a few top-life experiences! 

A few experiences that we discuss: 

• The magical toilets in Japan
• Street food in Vietnam 
• Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam 
• Riding motorcycles through the Ha Giang Loop
• Medical Tourism in Korea
• Eat pizza and soak your feet at the same time in Japan
• Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Also, if you want to join a trip that has been carefully planned by professionals, check out Travel Light Adventures! They put their heart and soul into planning trips that will change your life. 

https://www.travellightadventures.com/

instagram.com/travellightmel

tiktok.com/@travellightmel

open.spotify.com/show/0WTdD2uatrWCXX1uzVSuYY

Today we are listening to the dynamic Brother/Sister duo who rocked the entire 2,200 miles of the Appalachian Trial in just under five months. David and Ashley reminisce on the community of the trail, their daydreams of food, and their pursuit to actively avoid gear heads. These two have an undeniable sibling bond and an attractive take on storytelling. If you've ever thought of doing some hiking on the A.T. or just enjoy hearing about the outdoor pursuits of others, join us on this fun discussion. 

Born in Venezuela, raised by a strong mother who taught her the importance of being an independent woman, Dariella shares her stories of how she prioritizes travel over having nice "things" in life. Her stories are laced with conviction as she stresses her devotion for giving back to the communities that she visits. Dariella's stories will inspire you to love a little more and also to buy a plane ticket, asap. 

Join us this week as we listen to Rob De Clerk effortlessly spout out his tales of seeing much of this planet. His affection for dodgy little places is expressed as he narrates his version of the world. Rob's stories are concise and candid and I'm sure you will love him more for it. So, sit back and relax as you prepare yourself to get lost in his journey. 

Though I am fully aware that everything I say is not profound, I still love telling a good old fashioned story.  On this week's episode, we are mixing it up. My brother, Ryan Skelton, does an excellent job of making me feel that I'm more interesting than I actually am. So, I hope you join me, my country accent, and my over-usage of the word 'like' as I explain how and why I entered this amazing world of podcasting. 

Although we don't  put a dent in Katie Skelton's repertoire of stories, she divulges her personal saga of getting engaged in Myanmar and giving birth to two remarkable daughters in Casablanca, Morocco. Katie taught abroad for over a decade, took a bus from Colombia to Argentina on a year-long honeymoon, and is now starting a photography business with her husband. Join me on this adventure of love and family through Katie's eyes.

Dr. Darcova Triplett sees the beauty in everything. Although she explores museums in every city she visits, she still appreciates art in the life that surrounds her. Darcova is an artist, teacher, poet, traveler,  line dancer and professional walker with a specialty in strutting. Join us as she entertains us with her travel experiences across the U.S.A and teaches us all a little about self-love. 

Henry Mcclain.  A man who doesn't need a host.....only a mic and someone to listen. Henry will take you on an adventure around the world that doesn't require packing or an overpriced plane ticket. He will make you laugh, shed a tiny tear, and shake your head as you question his reflections on travel. Join me as I sit back, grab my popcorn, and encourage the telling of  tales and tragedies by Henry A. Mcclain. 

(Also, reach out to Henry for your roofing needs.)
https://www.1stnationalroofing.net/ 

RV's "make the adventure an adventure", is the outlook of my intrepid friend, Nyja. She chose to rent RV's with her husband, Mike, and toured around Alaska and Iceland. Nyja will unapologetically tell you what she thinks about her experiences, new and old.  Nyja is a globe-trotting enthusiast who sees beauty in the unfamiliar. The more she travels, the more places she wants to see! She also enjoys Delta sky lounge and headphones. Join us as Nyja takes us on an adventure through her eyes. 

He would rather fight a man than a monkey....and he's a smarter man for knowing. Adam Massingale is living my dream life. He worked hard in Taipei for years as a teacher and found the love of his life in the process. Now, 45 countries later, Adam uses his skills that he acquired while travelling the world  to start his own outdoor-gear business. He's crushing it in life and I'm so excited for him to share a slither of his story with us . 

Hikeright.tw 

Scott Dunkle, master of calming souls in restaurant walk-in coolers with his shortly timed hugs and solid advice. Scott was just a young lad when he embarked on his first trip abroad to Chile. Join us as he relives his adventures and gained perspectives, compliments of travel. 

"You pack your fears." Those are the words of Stephen Virant, a trail minimalist who challenges himself by packing only what he needs. Though the current weight of his backpack (and all its contents) weighs only 7.7 lbs., he encourages you to get outside and hike your own hike! Whether you're hitting the trails to hike three miles or thirty, Stephen advises, "Just do what you can and take in the beauty that you are in". 

A few of Stephen's hiking highlights: 

• Arizona Trail 
• Colorado Trail 
• John Nicholas Trail (JNT)
• Glacier National Park
• Pacific Crest Trail 
• Catalina Island (Great for beginners)

Recommended Apps:  

• FarOut - Navigational App
• Lighter Pack - Tracks your gear weight 

Don't let life keep you in one place if something inside of you is telling you to go. Susan Johnson is a story-teller who is actually a great listener as well. She's like a majestical yeti, traversing through North America and trying to find "her place". Susan has found peace in the small town of Kelso and she has no plans of slowing down. 

Aaron Moon, photographer and eternal optimist, shares his panoramic view on traveling and life.  His smile can be heard through the microphone as he divulges his affection for self expression and discloses his thoughts on finding a balance between taking pictures and living in the moment. Talking to Aaron makes me want to be nicer to people. Maybe. 
To contact Aaron for third weddings, fifth-grade graduations, animal births, and your renewal of vows abroad (or anything really): 
https://www.picsbythemoon.com/

The star of this weeks episode is Kyle Comley! He is a Washington local that grew up learning about the history of the land in the PNW and he enlivens the narrative of spending life outdoors. Kyle gives us background and historical information on Mount St. Helens and claims that Mt. Adams is the hidden gem of the Northwest!

A few recommended resources to explore before your visit: 

• https://www.wta.org/
• https://www.alltrails.com/

Additional must-see spots in southwestern Washington: 

• Gifford Pinchot National Forest
• Ape Cave
• Lewis River Trail 

Jaime Itani joins us this week to highlight the White Mountains, which can be found in New Hampshire and Maine. She is a master of the day-hike and and she encourages us to find communities to be a part of in the areas in which we live. 

Jaime lives in Boston, Massachusetts and is a mother of three awesome boys. If you're looking for a hiking community in the Boston area, she recommends: 

• Appalachian Mountain Club
• Adventuring Mamas of New England 

Join us for some inspiration on getting outside and being your own version of awesome! 

This week's podcast takes us to the extraordinary island of Puerto Rico! One of my best friends, Erin Sellers, takes us on an auditory adventure as she outlines the details of her trips. Even though the island has exotic resorts that are worth the visit, Erin is more of a "let's see what type of risky festivity is out there" kind of woman. Her wanderlust ran wild in Puerto Rico as she searched for adventures including scuba diving, eating all the bananas, horseback riding, biking, hiking, and getting misconstrued tattoos.  

She reminds us that Puerto Rico is a place of beauty, amazing people, incredible food and limitless fun. 

Welcome to Season Three! I am kicking off this third season with a good ol' fashion travel story that completely revolves around the incredible country of Ecuador. Our story starts in Quito and takes us on a journey south to Cotopaxi National Park. 

I am not your tour guide....but this dynamic duo can actually be your tour guides! I was lucky enough to have an inspiring conversation with Melanie and Enzo, who are the owners of an active group adventure company, Travel Light. Melanie is a free bird who is passionate about planning trips that consist of a healthy balance of spending the days in nature but sleeping in comfy beds at night. Her cohost and fiancé, Enzo, is the perfect partner whose job ranges from trip comedian to mule (not the drug kind). 

If you're looking to join a travel tour where adventure is abundant and comedic relief is included.... then you have found it! Check them out on this week's podcast and get the inspiration you need to try something new and exciting! You can find them on IG: @traveltooch and @enzocomedy. Also, at www.travellightadventures.com. You can also find them on Youtube as they bust out their new podcast, Travel Light Adventure Duo. Basically, they are everywhere and you can't avoid them if you try. So, just book a trip and go!