In Episode 119 of the Travel With Meaning podcast, we are thrilled to host Chef Lee Anne Wong, a culinary visionary known for her impactful journey from New York City's fine dining scene to the vibrant food culture of Maui. Chef Wong, a Top Chef alumna, shares her incredible story of moving to Hawaiʻi, opening Koko Head Cafe and eventually planting roots in Maui.

After the devastating 2023 wildfire that claimed her Lahaina restaurant, Chef Wong's resilience and dedication shone through as she tirelessly supported her community, cooking thousands of meals daily for displaced residents. She discusses her deep connection to Hawaiʻi, the importance of supporting local farmers, and her advocacy for mental health in the hospitality industry. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Chef Lee Anne Wong, where we explore her culinary adventures, community spirit, and the transformative power of food and travel.

Tune in to be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture.

The people and the spirit of Maui is strong – Maui is open and welcomes you back, now more than ever. Visit GoHawaii.com/Maui.

In this special episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, host Mike Schibel brings you a unique blend of conversations with renowned chefs and a talented local musician from Maui. They highlight the depth of Maui’s culinary and cultural richness, reveal how Maui has impacted their lives, and share their stories of community resilience after the Lahaina wildfires.

Recorded at the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience, join us  as we chat with, Chef Maneet Chauhan, Chef Stephanie Izard, Chef Jonathan Pasion from Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, and Chef Ryan Schelling from Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, as well as  musician Ua Bradshaw from Maui.

This episode is a celebration of the island’s resilient community—a community that invites travelers to return to Maui, now more than ever. Tune in to be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture.

Tune in to this heartfelt episode and be reminded of the beauty of Maui, the strength of its community, and the unbreakable bond between the people, the places, and the culture.

The people and the spirit of Maui is strong – Maui is open and welcomes you back, now more than ever. Visit GoHawaii.com/Maui.

#TravelWithMeaning #TravelStories #MauiStrong #GoHawaii #VisitMaui 

Episode 108 of the Travel With Meaning podcast features a conversation with Bruce Wallin, a travel journalist who has experienced his share of meaningful adventures.

As editorial director for Robb Report for 15 years covering luxury travel to co-founding Trip magazine in the nineties, and today as the host of the award-winning #travelthatmatters podcast.

In our conversation, Bruce shares his thoughts on wellness travel, and what sparked his desire to enter travel publishing + journalism and his most meaningful adventure.

Bruce sums up what travel means to him simply as “fun” and we couldn’t agree more. 

Enjoy our conversation with  Bruce. 

#Travelwithmeaning #Travelstories #Travel

In 2013, Ruben Rojas traded in his suit for a paint brush and began transforming blank walls into unique, empowering messages that today are uplifting communities and challenging the public to create new dialogues. As an artist, muralist and activist, Ruben’s mission is to ignite creativity and inspire others to see the world through the lens of love.  

By using the urban landscape as his canvas, Ruben encourages communities to change for the better through optimism and collaboration. These once vacant walls are now vibrant reminders that inspire those who see them to dream big, feel beautiful, live in possibility, and to love. Ruben’s murals can be seen in cities across the country and around the world from Paris to New York and Florida to Mississippi. 

Ruben’s portfolio of work extends beyond murals. He is a TED speaker, helping spread the message of art creating impact, a product designer and also a corporate consultant.

Ruben works with companies to help businesses give back, enhance workspaces and raise awareness on important issues. Past campaigns include clients such as Toms, Reebok, American Express, & GT’s Kombucha. Ruben is also co-founder of Beautify Earth, a nonprofit dedicated to putting an end to blighted walls and fixtures all over the world by empowering artists, encouraging social responsibility, and instilling community pride.

Celebrity fitness model, Lauren Abraham, is a nationally recognized TV host & live event MC specializing in travel, health, fitness, red carpet events, and action sports. She has over 10 years of ongoing hosting experience with networks such as ESPN, FSN, NBC, and the like. As one of the most influential fitness personalities in the industry, she has been signed as the video creator and host for all Amway fitness video content for the next 5 years globally, as well being the leading spokesperson for MuscleTech, STRONG by Zumba. Recently voted into the top 10 physiques in the fitness industry, she graced page 45 of last year’s ESPN magazine, “The Body Issue.” Lauren is continuously published worldwide, and is seen monthly gracing the pages of fitness, sport, and fashion magazines. She has over 60 magazine publications worldwide.

For the year of 2014, Lauren was the face of 7-11 TV across the country, and she currently hosts two 30-minute fitness infomercial “The Rock Gym” airing in 23 different countries and Ab Crunch in all of South and Central America. Because of her extensive directing & hosting knowledge form years as a host, she has recently launched her own video production company, and is now Executive Producer/Director/ and partner in one of the largest fitness apps launching in 2015 out of Canada, called Fit Plan App.

Lauren is certified with the Yoga Alliance is a level 5 stand up paddle boarder, certified with the Academy of Surf Instructors. She continues to be a world-renowned professional athlete, both in her earlier years as a competitive snowboarder and now as a sponsored stand up paddle surfer. Lauren graced the pages of both SUP the Mag and Fitness Gurls Magazine’s summer swimsuit editions this past year and will do so again this year.

As an expert specializing bikini body maintenance, anti-aging, yoga, and outdoor training, Lauren is launching her first book with her business partner, fitness photographer, Robert Reiff. “California Dream Body, The Ultimate Outdoor training guide by Lauren Abraham” Together they have created the highest level of visual inspiration and content, supplying her ever growing & loyal fan base an ongoing collection of useful knowledge.

Lauren also hosts her annual surf, sup, and yoga retreats in Playa Negra, Costa Rica called the “LAUREN ABRAHAM LIFESTYLE EXPERIENCE”

In her earlier years as a competitive snowboarder she injured herself critically and endured 10 major surgeries that confined her to a wheel chair for a 2-year period. Not allowing her chronic arthritis and lifelong ankle pain to slow her down, Lauren has overcome her life altering injuries through her dedication to health and keeping her mind, body, and spirit in top shape. She has also overcome a drug addiction during her earlier years,  and is a survivor of domestic violence.

Lauren is creator of “THE LOVE LIFE” program and hopes her membership site will be a one stop shop for women of all walks of life to find the answers and inspiration to turn their own dreams into their reality. 

With her undeniable love for life and endless drive, it is clear why Lauren Abraham is a leading star in social media hundreds of thousands of followers. She is a true influencer with a fast & significant growing fan base for lifestyle brands that support and believe in her as a leading spokesperson and athlete. Lauren is a natural born leader, inspiring people to reach their goals and dreams by living a life full of enthusiasm, joy, courage, and most of all… passion.

Ben Higgins is best known from season 20 of ABC’s hit series, “The Bachelor,” where he opened himself up to millions of viewers, giving them the chance to truly get to know him. The opportunity ultimately led to an enhanced platform that he now uses to share what he is most passionate about with others – his faith, his hope for humanity and his love of sports.

Born and raised in Winona Lake, IN, Ben currently resides in Denver, CO, where he moved after graduating from Indiana University in 2012. Since “The Bachelor,” Ben has been keeping up with a number of projects with the help of some of his closest friends.

Most recently, Ben co-founded Generous International, a for purpose company dedicated to contributing profits to social issues around the world, starting with a cup of coffee. With a vision to change the way society thinks of consumer products, all Generous merchandise is designed specifically to create and multiply good in the world. Whether creating jobs, feeding children or improving education, it begins with giving back in order to build a world that we all want to live in.

In 2017 Ben created a lifestyle blog, The Mahogany Workplace, where people are free to openly and honestly discuss all things life, love and everything in between. From style to travel to world views, Ben and his team of refreshing contributors cover it all, with the one common thread being complete transparency about how life can truly be – a series of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, triumph and pain. 

Ben stays connected with his loyal Bachelor following with his iHeartMedia podcast, “Almost Famous,” which he co-hosts with his friend and former Bachelor contestant, Ashley Iaconetti.  It’s the perfect destination for fans to get an inside perspective on the popular franchise as they break down the current Bachelor season in addition to discussing pop culture, offering relationship advice and allowing listeners to keep up with their personal lives.

In 2018 Ben partnered with nationally recognized chef Daniel Asher and the team at Culinary Creative Group to open his first restaurant venture Ash ‘Kara in Denver, Co. Ash ‘Kara is a globally inspired restaurant with influences from Israel, the Middle East, and Mesopotamia. Ash ‘Kara which is Hebrew street slang for “totally!” or “right on!” explores the continuous evolution of Israeli cuisine with ingredients and flavors from across Europe and North Africa including Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Spain into a menu of shareable items from Ash ‘Kara’s wood-fired oven.

Of all Ben’s ventures, his longest-running connection has been with Humanity and Hope United, where he holds a seat on the board. Established by one of his best friends and Mahogany Workplace contributor, Riley Fuller, Humanity & Hope United is a non-profit organization working to assist underserved villages in remote parts of Honduras. They partner with the people of each community to achieve sustainable change, focusing on the needs of individuals rather than a single issue or approach.

This is a solo cast episode where Founder of Travel With Meaning, Mike Schibel shares about his yearly family summer reunion at their cabin in Northern Minnesota. Mike gets real and personal with his experience and why this year’s trip was so different than any other before. We’ll also hear some of Mike’s thoughts and wisdom around making choices while being on the open road and the mindset of a traveler. As Season One of the TWM Podcast comes to a close Mike reflects back and reveals about the road ahead for Season Two with a new partner creating inspiration for future episodes. All this and so much more on this episode of the Travel With Meaning Podcast.

Jesse Billauer (born February 24, 1979) is a well-known surfer from Pacific Palisades, California.

Billauer suffered an accident at the age of 17 on March 25, 1996, hitting his head on a shallow sandbar after being knocked off his surfboard by a wave. The force broke his neck, severing his spinal cord at the C6 level and instantly rendered him a quadriplegic.

Billauer was told by doctors that he would never surf again. However, Billauer eventually did return to surfing, adapting his surfing technique and equipment to the situation of his current condition. He has become a role model guide to many other surfers, both professional and amateur, on how to live life to the fullest, despite a life-changing injury. Through these efforts, Jesse has gained sponsorships from companies including Hurley, Channel Islands Surfboards (who developed a "Jesse Billauer" model), LoFric, Wavejet and Shoe City.

After graduating from Malibu High School, Billauer eventually enrolled at San Diego State University, with an emphasis in Communications. He graduated in 2002. He is also a motivational speaker, and is Executive Director of the non profit foundation he founded, "Life Rolls On." Through this foundation, Jesse is taking a leading role in awareness and activism for spinal cord injury related quality of life programs.

The 2003 Docs-Film Step Into Liquid featured his story and his friendship with Rob Machado Billauer was also featured on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Dateline NBC, Good Morning America, While You Were Out, E! True American Story and more. In 2004 he won the 10News (San Diego) Leadership Award for his commitment to Life Rolls On Foundation. His life story is featured in the book Bouncing Forward: Transforming Bad Breaks into Breakthroughs.

In 2005 Billauer became the first quadriplegic surfer to surf the dangerous waves of Cloudbreakin Fiji. He now surfs utilizing a power-assisted surfboard created by Wavejet.

The inaugural "Jesse's Story on Tour" speaking tour began in April 2006. This Tour has traversed the country and Jesse has delivered his message of Overcoming Adversity to over 100,000 people.

In December 2006 Billauer broke his femur while surfing large waves on the North Shore of Oahu (Hawaii). This injury led to the development of improved equipment for disabled surfers. He has recovered and is back in the water surfing again.

In September 2013 he took over as Executive Director and CEO of Life Rolls On Foundation.

On December 6, 2013 Billauer became engaged to his longtime girlfriend Samanta Pearson and on October 26, 2014 he married her at the historical Adamson House in Malibu. They Live in Los Angeles with two beautiful twin boys.

Richard Bangs is co-founder and Chief Adventure Officer of  http://www.Steller.co

Richard Bangs has been a pioneer in travel, digital media, e-commerce, and other frontiers.

In the early 90s Richard produced the first internet travel site http://www.mtsobek.com, the first travel CD ROM (The Adventure Disc), and the first virtual expeditions http://www.terra-quest.com.

He was founder and editor-in-chief of Mungo Park, a pioneering Microsoft travel publishing effort. He also founded www.terra-quest.com. He was part of the founding executive team of Expedia.com (www.expedia.com), and served as its Editor-at-Large. He was creator and publisher of Expedia Travels Magazine (published in partnership with Ziff-Davis), and executive producer of Expedia Radio, and founder and executive director of Expedia Cafes. He also served as president of Outward Bound; Founded Well-Traveled.com for Slate, and was founding editor and executive producer of Great Escapes, another Microsoft Travel initiative (www.greatescapes.msnbc.com). He also ran and founded First and Best for MSN, and founded Sobek Expeditions, which in the early 1990s merged with Mountain Travel to become Mountain Travel Sobek (www.mtsobek.com).

Richard Bangs has oft been called the father of modern adventure travel, and the pioneer in travel that makes a difference, travel with a purpose. He has spent 30 years as an explorer and communicator, and along the way led first descents of 35 rivers around the globe, including the Yangtze in China and the Zambezi in Southern Africa.

He recently co-directed the IMAX Film, Mystery of the Nile, and co-authored the Putnam book of the same name. His recent book, The Lost River: A Memoir of Life, Death and the Transformation of Wild Water, won the National Outdoor Book Award in the literature category, and the Lowell Thomas Award for best book.

Richard has published more than 1000 magazine articles, 19 books, produced a score

of documentaries and several CD-ROMs; and has lectured at the

Smithsonian, the National Geographic Society, the Explorers Club and many other notable venues. He writes a semi-regular feature with the NYTimes. Richard served as executive producer of Richard Bangs Adventures on Yahoo.

He executive produced and hosted the Emmy-winning PBS series, Richard Bangs’ Adventures with Purpose (www.adventureswithpurpose.tv), and his companion book, Adventures with Purpose, won the 2007 best book award from NATJA. His latest books are Quest for the Sublime (2008), and Quest for the Kashah (2009).

Richard won the Mark Dubois lifetime achievement conservation award in 2007.

Richard won the CINE Golden Eagle Award in 2008 for the special, Quest for Kaitiakitanga, and six Tele Awards for Quest for the Nile, Quest for the Sublime, and Quest for the Kasbah. Quest for Kaitiakitanga was nominated for an Environmental Media Award (“The Green Oscars”) for best documentary, and won the annual Platinum Award from HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International). Richard’s film Quest for the Viking Spirit won the 2009 Gold Lowell Thomas award for best documentary; and the same award for 2010 for the India show. Also, the series won two Emmys in 2010 in the History/Culture categories.

In 2011 Richard won the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Gold Award for Hong Kong: Quest for the Dragon—2011; the 2011 CINE Golden Eagle Award for Greece: Quest for the Gods; and two Telly Awards for Hong Kong: Quest for the Dragon.

Richard’s show Quest for Harmony won the Gold in the Destination Marketing Category of the 2012 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, as well as two Bronze Telly Awards, and the 2012 Lowell Thomas Award. His special, Richard Bangs’s South America: Quest for Wonder, won two Telly Awards for 2013; and the Cine Golden Eagle for 2013.

Richard Bangs’ Quests for PBS

He is co-founder of www.steller.co, now the world’s largest travel storytelling platform and app.

www.richardbangs.com

www.adventureswithpurpose.tv

www.mtsobek.com

www.whitenilemedia.net

Destined to shine, her bright personality, experience, and sunny disposition led Angela to break boundaries in the world of sports and media as the first Asian-American female sportscaster to appear on ESPN, Yahoo! Sports, Tennis Channel, Fox Sports and NBC to name a few.  During the time Angela hosted the “YAHOO! SPORTS MINUTE”, it became the longest running and #1 daily sports show online, won a Webby Award, and garnered over 600 million streams. Angela also co-hosted Season 4 of NBC’s “AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR”.  She is currently host of “FOREIGN IN THE U.S.A.” travel show that can be seen nationally and in-flight on Delta Airlines.

As a world traveler, the award-winning journalist’s passion for storytelling and love for the oceans led to the creation of her first independent feature documentary, “PLASTIC PARADISE: THE GREAT PACIFIC GARBAGE PATCH”. Angela directed & executive produced the film which has received critical praise and won 13 awards worldwide and been in over 40 film festivals, with supporters such as former VP Al Gore, Bette Midler, Jackson Browne, Forest Whitaker sharing about it on social media. The film helped start a #plasticparadise social media movement of thousands worldwide taking the pledge to say no to single-use plastics. The film has wide distribution and can currently be seen on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Itunes, Vudu, Pivot TV (US), LA7 (Italy), SBS2 (Australia), Taiwan & Sweden. For more info: www.plasticparadisemovie.com

Angela has appeared in USA Today, Tedx, Fox Business, NYtimes, Maxim, Bleacher Report, Salon.com, Answers.com, Forbes, Audrey Magazine, Men’s Fitness, The UK Sunday Times, Wall Street Journal, the cover of Experience Life Magazine and more.

David has been working at the edge of sustainability and the forefront of regenerative architecture for over 35 years. As a systems thinker, he engages a variety of fields through design and believes in expanding the conceptual limits of architecture.

Throughout his career, David has connected the art of building with responsible stewardship of the Earth. A LEED accredited professional, he serves on the board of Heal The Bay and is a member of the City of Santa Monica’s Task Force on the Environment. David taught sustainable design and mentored students at his alma mater, SCI-Arc, as well as Art Center College of Design and USC, and currently serves on the Academic Advisory Committee for UCLA’s Extension Program.

A lifelong passion for surfing has made David keenly active in issues regarding water quality and access. He and his wife Laura founded Skysource to develop and distribute atmospheric water generation technology, and their efforts culminated in winning the Water Abundance XPRIZE. Since then, they have focused on making communities more resilient through better design, planning, and products. Since the Woolsey Fire devastated their community, David is committed to helping friends and neighbors rebuild their homes and lives.

Welcome to the first official solocast of the Travel With Meaning podcast. I’ve been enjoying bringing you conversations with interesting guests sharing travel stories and don’t worry we have three more interviews coming up with David Hertz, Angela Sun and Richard Bangs to close out season one. As I promised in the intro episode I was going to share some of my travels throughout the year and how travel has always shown up for me when I needed it. Something else I shared in the intro episode was I lost my job the end of January and I was thinking travel was going to play a big part of my life for the next few months. This episode is some of my thoughts, experiences and meaningful moments from travels my travels over the first six months of 2019. I found doing the interviews so much easier. Which means I’m going to have to lean into being even more vulnerable on my next solocast.  Hope you enjoy…see you on the open road!
Mike

Angela Sun

David Hertz

Richard Bangs

Episode 107 is a special conversation recorded in front of a live audience at the infamous Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, CA. 

This podcast features one of our favorite past guests, Ruben Rojas an artist, author, podcast host, a new dad, and Founder of Live Through Love. 

It had been five years since we sat down with Ruben in front of a live audience and wow how his life, career, and travels evolved since 2018. Click here to listen to the past episode's conversation.

In this exciting episode, Ruben shares his adventures, projects, and connections he's had over the past few years that shaped a new lens of meaning in his life. 

We learn about how Ruben's project with the city he calls home, Santa Monica, and the mural painted in Brighton Beach, England as part of a sister city initiative came to be.

The live recording of this episode with Ruben could not have been possible without the support of the Fairmont Miramar, Santa Monica, and our partners for the evening - Bombay Sapphire, Arvin Goods, and Eagle Creek. 

Show highlights:

12:20 Ruben shares about an incredible partnership he's formed with the NFL. As a former football player himself, this partnership is a dream come true to spread LOVE through a CHOOSE LOVE campaign. 

21:37 Experience of leaving his hometown of Santa Monica and coming back with a new appreciation. 

23:27: Santa Monica and Brighton, England sister city project.

24:40: How has his life changed as a traveler with a two-year-old son.

28:40: How does he live through love when he travels.

29:50: Ruben's most meaningful travel experience.

Angelique Velez, growing up in New York City dreaming of seeing the world. The former model and professional poker player life of travel began to unfold in front of her. It was traveling the world playing poker where she crafted the concept of Remarkable Places. Creating a visual vision board through her Instagram account. founder of Remarkable Places. With 55 countries visited to date, Angelique is constantly seeking out the most unique and unknown locations in the world. Remarkable Places is now a full fledge independent travel agency and experience company that brings her audience with her on her remarkable travels. For more information visit remarkableplaces.net

Never one to sit still, Kinga has tested herself for the past 19 years by traveling the globe...scuba diving, free diving, spear fishing, surfing, jumping out of airplanes, spelunking and swimming with sharks as a writer, producer and on camera journalist for networks such as CBS, NBC, ABC, USA, AMC, Travel Channel, Fox Sports, Universal Sports, Food Network, Current TV, Syfy, EPIX and National Geographic.

Kinga was born in Warsaw, Poland into a family of explorers and adventurers. Her dad, a geologist, trekked repeatedly across Europe and her mom, trained in botany, can give the Latin name of every plant. Expeditions are in her genes. Her folks believed in regular road trips, camping, cultural exploration, photography and natural sciences. She didn't stand a chance of becoming anything other than the world wandering, adventurous, story telling soul she grew up to be. 

She has traveled the world reporting on intense subjects like police corruption in Mexico, gangs in LA, women in the sex trade, humanitarian and environmental causes, world conflict and natural disasters. On the flip side she has explored the night life, festivals and exotic eats of the world's most vibrant cities. 

Kinga was one of the original on air journalists to launch Al Gore’s Emmy Award winning Current TV, where she covered everything from travel, car culture and entertainment to current issues and hard hitting vanguard journalism stories that put her in the line of fire…sometimes literally.

As an on air producer for Syfy’s Legend Quest, a Da-Vinci-Code-meets-Indiana-Jones style adventure show traversing the globe in search of mysterious artifacts, Kinga traveled to 13 countries in two months exploring some of the world's most exotic destinations. The team investigated sunken churches in Ethiopia, trekked the Andes in Peru, went spelunking in the Philippines, dived Mexican cenotes, rode camels through the desert in Jordan, located one of the oldest known churches in a maximum security prison in Israel and braved rough seas to access remote islands off Scotland's west coast. 

For National Geographic Kinga co-hosted America’s Lost Treasures, traveling across the United States in search of hidden links to America’s past, authenticating artifacts and telling the stories that connect our past to our present. The items from the show went on display at the National Geographic Museum in Washington DC. Kinga's background includes a minor in anthropology and a fascination with history. 

Kinga has done several projects for Travel Channel including The Wild Side with Kinga Philipps, which had her kite surfing, bungee jumping, free diving and mountain biking across the US; the network's yearly special The Trip, where Travel Channel talent team up to show off exciting destinations; Travel Hacks, an animated multi part series written and hosted by Kinga and based on her more off beat and comical adventure travel moments and the award winning THE REAL, a comprehensive locals perspective of exotic destinations...repeatedly nominated and winning Tellys, Webbys and the Cynopsis Model D...among others. THE REAL is currently one of Travel Channel's premier shows on Facebook Watch. 

Her latest project with Travel Channel is the new series Off the Map, which will go into production in June 2019 and air in late fall. Kinga, along with co-host JJ Kelley, will travel the world investigating unsolved mysteries that took place in some of the planet’s most harrowing and remote locations.

Currently, Kinga is on the road working on the six episode documentary series, Enslaved. As a journalist and scuba diver she is part of the team diving shipwrecks all over the world to tell the profound stories of the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved will premiere on EPIX in early 2020. The series is being hosted by Samuel L. Jackson.

Kinga is also the regular travel expert for Beond TV, a morning program on KDOC LA, ROKU and online that is viewed by almost 6 million viewers weekly.

As a writer, she has two columns for Real Clear Life and Inside Hook: Off the Beaten Path, a modern nomads guide to a world less traveled that explores some of the last bastions of wilderness this planet has to offer; and the acclaimed Real Life Laura Croft series that highlights inspiring and accomplished women. She is also a regular contributor to Adventure Journal and her travel expertise has appeared in a variety of publications including Travel + Leisure, Martha Stewart Weddings and Readers Digest.

Kinga is a member of the prestigious Explorers Club. She joins the likes of Elon Musk, James Cameron, Neil Armstrong, Robert Ballard, Silvia Earle, David Attenborough and many others in this extraordinary family of explorers, who over the past 114 years, have dedicated themselves to the advancement of field research, scientific exploration, resource conservation and the ideal that it is vital to preserve the instinct to explore.

In her free time, Kinga explores a singular fascination with the ocean, free diving (see below), scuba diving (she is advanced open water, nitrox and dry suit certified), surfing, spearfishing to harvest her own food, exotic travel and sharks (those are her two friends from Guadalupe Island, MX swimming up top)... followed just slightly by a love of solo adventure travel, charity work, exotic foods and action sports. She lives in Malibu, CA to be close to the beach at all times. 

Kinga is a board member of the nonprofit environmental group, Shark Allies, dedicated to changing the image of sharks and conserving our oceans. She gives yearly shark talks aboard the HORIZON, a live aboard eco tour that visits white sharks in their native habitat off the coast of Mexico. She is also a board member of Now Art LA, a non profit dedicated to curating and supporting public art and an ambassador for Waves for Water, on org committed to providing clean water to those in need.

Erin Fish is Co-Founder of Wanderwell, a social enterprise travel insurance agency committed to guiding travelers towards comprehensive, yet cost-effective plans, giving you peace of mind on your adventures. Wanderwell is a certified B Corp dedicated to offsetting the environmental impacts of travel by giving 10% of annual revenue to established non-profit members of 1% for the Planet, an organization focused on social impact and environmental stewardship; as well as other non-profits that promote sustainable travel. You go, we give...

Erin and his family live in Portland, Oregon and a graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a BA in Environmental Studies. He has 13+ years of insurance industry experience as an agent/broker for health insurance, employee benefits, travel insurance, and international health insurance. In previous decades, he was a middle school and high school teacher. As an active participant in local and national B Corp and 1% for the Planet committees, Erin is a strong advocate for using business as a driving force for making a positive social and environmental impact.

David Osokow, affectionately known as Dave O to celebrities, athletes, and executives around the world is a global serial entrepreneur and former fixture in the Hollywood nightlife scene. He’s the co-founder of the stylish and affordable sunglass brand Priverevaux, VP of Client Services for Vanderhall and Super 73.
The Southern California native is a motorcycle enthusiast and die-hard Philadelphia sports fan. One of Dave’s greatest moments was sitting next to a Philadelphia sports icon as his beloved Eagles won the Superbowl. Dave share’s that special moment and his other unique travel adventures on this episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast.

Laura Grier has been called the Indiana Jones of Adventure Travel Photography and is a recent addition to the Discovery Channel UK’s “20 Richest People in the World List”, people who are rich in life experiences that is.  Living abroad from a young age, it is no surprise that Laura turned her life of travel, adventure, and exploration into a profession. As a photojournalist for the past 18 years, Laura has photographed on all 7 continents and has made a life out of exploring the world, capturing, and writing about her experiences.

The most satisfying work that Laura has done in her career has been through her work with Novica, in Association with National Geographic, a global catalog that represents artisans from around the world who are practicing “Vanishing Arts”. Through her work with Novica over the past 8 years, Laura has traveled numerous times to Peru and has quickly fallen in love with the culture and people. Passionate about mentoring, women’s education, photography and travel, Laura leads travel workshops, expeditions, and is an ambassador for sustainable travel brands like Lokal and Impact Travel Alliance.

Sure, Billy Galewood could impress you all day with many of his fun talents: juggling, magic, balloon animals, fire breathing… even balancing large objects on his face. But, that’s just the tip of the iceberg for this seasoned performer. Billy has evolved from his early days as a clown into a multi-talented comedian, musician, and storyteller whose artistic toolbox has led him on a magical ride around the world.

As a performer, Billy has graced the stage of such storied venues as The Hollywood Bowl, Red Rocks Amphitheater, as well as countless comedy clubs across the country. Billy has performed internationally, touring Europe, Asia, Canada, and Australia.

He has collaborated with Justin Willman, Jason Mraz, Craig Robinson, Bob Schneider, Pigeon John, and Funny or Die.

As a musician, he co-wrote on GRAMMY winner Jason Mraz’s platinum debut album “Waiting for My Rocket to Come” and sophomore release “Mr. A-Z.” Billy also appeared in Jason’s 2018 documentary “Have it All,” showing in 600 theaters across the country.

His own songs have been featured in multiple film, television, and commercial projects.

Jessica Blotter is CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler. The moment she discovered that the love of travel can’t be separated from the state of the world after witnessing poverty on a trip to Belize in 2012, she wondered how the $7-trillion travel industry could be harnessed to benefit local communities, the environment, and animals. This experience led her and her co-founder to launch KindTraveler.com, a social enterprise that’s the first socially-conscious Give + Get hotel booking and education platform empowering travelers to become a force for good. Since launching Kind Traveler, Blotter has been featured in more than 300 news and blog outlets including the New York Times, Afar, Conde Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure. Blotter has delivered a TEDx salon talk ‘The Future of Travel: Purpose is King,’ was a recipient of the 2017 WITTI (Women in Travel & Tourism International) Award by Mandala Research as a Rising Star in Travel & Tourism presented by Skift, received the ‘Best Ethical Travel Agency of 2018’ Award by ELUXE Magazine, and is a member of the Forbes Los Angeles Business Council.

A multi-Grammy-nominated recording artist, Redfoo is creator and one-half of electro-pop dance duo LMFAO. The group is best known for their chart-topping single “Party Rock Anthem” and other popular hits “I’m in Miami Bitch”, “Sexy and I Know It”, "Sorry for Party Rocking" and "Shots, Shots, Shots." As a hit songwriter and recent solo artist, Redfoo is known for his international hits "Let's Get Ridiculous", “New Thang” and “Juicy Wiggle.” A Vegan and lover of life, the youngest son of Motown founder Berry Gordy, Jr. is currently obsessed with, Getting an ATP Point in Tennis, Coding games in JavaScript, and laughing with his girlfriend Jasmine, their 3 dogs, and 2 turkeys.

Growing up Slater Trout's life was based around the water. At the age of 11, Slater chose to forge his own path through the young and fresh sport of Stand Up Paddling. By doing so he found himself competing and succeeding against athletes mostly double his age. While traveling for SUP Races / Surf competitions around the world, he developed his passion for photography. As his photography portfolio is growing, he hopes that each of his photos will inspire and invite you to experience the world through his eyes. Whether Slater is competing for a Stand Up Paddling World Title or documenting his life through photography, he is always excited for the next journey.

Social

IG: https://www.instagram.com/slatertrout/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/slatertrout?lang=en

Website: http://slatertrout.com

As the first African-American woman to host her own science television series, Danni is deeply passionate about inspiring the next generation to connect and understand the natural world. She has spent the last 10 years finding creative ways to convert her passion for the ocean and science into exciting, high-profile ways. Miami native with Jamaican roots, Danni Washington is deeply passionate about exposing the next generation to the wonders of the ocean and engaging science communications. She dreamed of studying the oceans since she was six years old. In 2008, Danni graduated from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science with a B.Sc. in Marine Science/Biology. At age 21, she co-founded along with her mom, Michelle Swaby-Smith the Big Blue & You - A 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating youth about marine conservation through the arts and media.  "Ocean Conservation through Artistic Inspiration". She also served for four years as a naturalist at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center where she helped educate thousands of South Florida children about local marine ecosystems.

For three years, Danni served as an on-camera personality and science filmmaker with Untamed Science which created nearly 200 K-12 Science Educational Videos for Pearson textbooks that are currently in classrooms across the USA), Ocean GEMS (a multimedia series and outreach program connecting teens to marine scientists mentors and role models inspiring them to pursue careers in marine science) and she also co-starred with Jaden Smith in the official educational outreach video for the theatrical film After Earth starring Jaden and his dad, Will Smith.  Most recently, Danni is working as the host of a brand new STEM educational TV Series which features the latest advancements in bio-inspired technology and design called XPLORATION NATURE KNOWS BEST which is syndicated on FOX and available on HULU, Amazon Prime, Roku and Yahoo View.

Danni was also featured as a commentator in Discovery’s original series, STRANGE EVIDENCE on the Science Channel. She co-created and produced a new initiative called Sea Youth Rise Up which is a collaborative effort to elevate the role of youth leadership in ocean conservation policy and advocacy on World Oceans Day.  In 2017, Danni was selected as one of the 10 young innovators who was profiled in CA Technologies #STEM10 initiative featured on Amy Poehlers . Most recently, Danni served as spokesperson of the nation’s largest celebration of STEM at the USA Science & Engineering Festival in Washington D.C.

Danni has a deep appreciation for the arts and seeks any creative outlet to express herself including dance, film and music. She is an avid scuba diver, passionate curly girl, stand-up paddle boarding enthusiast, MOCHA MERMAID and overall lover of the natural world, she is ALWAYS ready for an ADVENTURE.

Episode 106 of the podcast features a conversation with Co-Founder and CEO of Unbound Merino,Dan Demsky.  An intrepid business leader, and serial entrepreneur, Dan started Unbound Merino as a way to offer travelers freedom through simplicity. In just five years, Dan has transformed the company from a small crowdfunding campaign to an international brand worn by travelers, entrepreneurs, and minimalists across the globe. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the startup space, Dan has appeared on BNN Bloomberg and has been featured in publications such as Forbes, The Globe and Mail, VICE, and more. He is also a board member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization Toronto and a regular contributor to Learn with Shopify. When he isn’t traveling, Dan enjoys live music, good food, and spending time with his pug, Walter

Highlights of this episode:

Dan shares his first big trip to Japan which was a gift from his brother and had a drastic effect on him. 3:47-4:21

Dan shares a big tradition he and his best friends share when going to see their favorite band in the world Phish. No matter where they are in the world, when this happens, Dan is present to how good his life is in that moment. 9:37-12:12

Dan also shares travel advice 14:31-15:10

For more information on Dan and Unbound Merino visit ww.unboundmerino.com

This episode was sponsored UnCruise, the leading small-ship adventure company. If you're looking for a memorable and meaningful adventure in pristine nature with unique activties, gourmet meals, and so much more, visitwww.uncruise.com

Phil Keoghan has been telling stories in front of a television camera for 30 years.  He has worked in over 130 countries as an actor, author, speaker, television host, producer, director and cameraman on thousands of program episodes. Phil is currently Host and an Executive Producer of The Amazing Race, now in its 32nd season; Host of National Geographic’s Explorer and Host of an inspirational podcast called, Buckit with Phil Keoghan.  His work has earned him numerous awards including; ten prime-time Emmy Awards as a producer and host of the hit CBS series The Amazing Race; Best Director Award, at the American Documentary Film Festival; the 2018 Sports Documentarian Award from the International Sports Hall of Fame: a World Class New Zealand Award; The 2011 Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life award for services to MS; a 2012 Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award and the Endurance Live, Celebrity Athlete of the Year 2013. Keoghan was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2014 for his services to television and tourism.

Social

IG https://www.instagram.com/philiminator/

Twitter  https://twitter.com/PhilKeoghan

Podcast  https://philkeoghan.com/buckit/

Travel stories that have impacted the lives and careers of artists, entertainers, athletes, entrepreneurs, CEO’s and travel experts. Hosted by Mike Schibel, Founder of Travel With Meaning.

Episode 105 is a two-part series with Amy and Nick Thomson, podcasters and creators of What The Pho Travel Podcast (WTP). 

Amy is a former BBC Radio producer and current podcast production business founder. Nick Thomson is a podcast producer at Manchester United Football Club Together they are, What The Pho Travel Podcast. They travel around the globe making a travel podcast to entertain, inspire and teach you about the world. 

In part two of Episode 105 we learn about Nick and Amy the travelers. Who are they as individual travelers, as a couple, and where did the idea for WTP podcast come from?  

We’re big fans of Nick and Amy and hope you will be as well after listening to episode 105.  Enjoy!

If you like what you’ve heard, please live a rating, comment, and share with your friends.

Episode 105 is a two-part series with Amy and Nick Thomson, podcasters and creators of "What The Pho"  (WTP) Travel Podcast. 

Amy is a former BBC Radio producer and current podcast production business founder. Nick Thomson is a podcast producer at Manchester United Football Club. Together they are, What The Pho Travel Podcast. They travel around the globe making a travel podcast to entertain, inspire and teach you about the world. 

In part one of episode 105 we hear about Amy and Nick meeting Mike from WTM on an adventure in Austria as part of the Untold Stories Series with Austria Tourism. This trip was an absolute dream itinerary.  Nick, Amy, and Mike retell the stories from their Austrian adventure and why they think Austria is an underrated wellness mecca. 

It’s pretty clear in this episode there was an instant appreciation and friendship between Nick, Amy, and Mike, the rest is podcast history and a fun episode to enjoy!

On this episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, we meet Christine Peterson, a freelance writer based in southeast Wyoming. TWM podcast host Mike Schibel met Christine on a trip to Ganglers Lodge in Northern Manitoba. This conversation shares the unique adventure of Gangelers Lodge and Christine's lens as a journalist covering wildlife, the environment, hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and public lands. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, High Country News, Outside, Outdoor Life, and many other publications. When she's not writing, she's wandering the West with her husband, 6-year-old daughter, and two yellow Labradors (one greying, the other very much a puppy).  Give Christine a follow on Instagram @ she.will.roam

As Always we appreciate the support.  Please like, and share this episode to help spread meaningful and memorable travel stories.

BIG thank you to our episode sponsor UnCruise, the small boat adventure company (www.uncruise.com)

In episode 103 of the podcast, we talk with Jen Ruiz, AKA Jen On A Jet Plane. Jen is a truly unique professional who transformed her life and career through incredible travel experiences.  Jen is a lawyer turned full-time travel blogger and author. She is a 5-time Amazon bestselling author, 3-time TEDx speaker and multi-award-winning travel journalist. She has been featured by The Washington Post, Forbes, and ABC News and is the solo female traveler behind Jen on a Jet Plane.

In our conversation, Jen shares with us her reasons to leave the law career behind, and what is her inspiration for her travels.  For more information on Jen visit www.jenonajetplane.com

Please give Travel With Meaning a follow on social 

@TravelWith Meaning 

If you liked this episode please leave a comment and share it with your community. 

In the latest episode of the Travel With Meaning podcast, host Mike Schibel speaks with Lillian Rafson, the CEO and founder of Pack Up + Go. Originally from Pittsburgh, Lillian shares how her passion for travel after a carefree Summer backpacking around a region she knew nothing about led her to start her own company that plans surprise trips for its customers. 

Pack Up + Go, encourages spontaneity, exploration, and adventure among American travelers. She launched the bootstrapped business at 23 years old and has grown it to 25+ team members and $7 million+ in annual revenue. Lillian has been honored as a member of the Pittsburgh 30 Under 30 and 40 Under 40, a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow, a Travel & Leisure A-List Travel Planner, and a Top Woman in Hospitality. Outside of Pack Up + Go, Lillian is a business coach, focusing on helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses!

Show Notes:

15:22 This could be one of the most ambitious ideas for a passionate traveler about starting a new job. 

26:24: Where did the idea for surprise travel come from? Where was Lillian and who were where the other travelers that got Lillian thinking about the idea?

30:57: Who was the first guests to try Pack Up + Go and how did the brand go viral? 

As always thanks for listening.  If you like the episode, please leave a rating and share it with your friends. 

For more information on Pack Up+Go www.packupgo.com

In this episode, we're joined by a woman who's blazing a trail in the travel industry and never intended to start a travel company.  As the Colombian-American founder and CEO of El Camino Travel, Katalina Mayorga has been on a mission to change the way women travel, making it more accessible and inclusive. Katalina shares the two meaningful moments while in Guatemala  (19:00) that changed the course of her life.

As a veteran of the travel industry, she has led El Camino to become one of the fastest-growing experiential marketplaces and subscription services that empower women to travel boldly and off the beaten path. She’s equally determined to develop the technology that will make a positive impact by supporting the local operators who are critical to the experience but lack the tech stack to grow and scale. Katalina has been featured in the New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, and Washington Post, among several other prominent media outlets, and is often tapped for her expertise in emerging trends within the travel industry. 

If this episode makes you want to travel or at least smile, please like and share it with your community. We appreciate your support.

Welcome to episode 100 of the Travel with Meaning podcast! We're excited to celebrate this milestone by sharing a very special episode with our listeners. In this episode, we're joined by my travel inspiration, my mom, Linda Schibel. In this episode, we delve into mom’s earliest travel memories and explore where her wanderlust comes from. We also reminisce about our family trips to our cabin in northern Minnesota and a road trip we took together in Scotland. Additionally, we discuss her impactful adventures in Africa, Paris, and Israel. Join us as we share my mom’s unique perspective on travel and the meaningful experiences it has brought to our lives.

Thanks for tuning in and for all the encouragement and support of Travel With Meaning. I hope to see you on the open road!

In episode 117, we welcome Shalini Vadhera, a renowned global beauty expert and entrepreneur. Shalini's journey from a celebrity makeup artist to a leading figure in the beauty industry is truly inspiring. She shares her experiences growing up with a multicultural background and traveling the world, which shaped her unique perspective on beauty. Shalini discusses her brand, Ready, Set, Jet, aimed at empowering women through inclusive beauty solutions and entrepreneurship.

Join us as Shalini reveals the beauty secrets she's discovered globally and her commitment to celebrating diversity. This episode is a powerful exploration of the transformative impact of beauty, travel, and embracing what makes us unique. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Shalini Vadera, and be sure to check out Ready, Set, Jet for innovative beauty solutions.

Hello Travelers!

What a year 2022 has been!  TWM is beyond grateful for all of you and your support of the podcast and for sharing meaningful travel stories.

This episode is a recap of travels, unique experiences, and inspiring conversations from this past year.

Our most meaningful episode recorded this year was 98A and 98B with Owen Conflenti recorded at the Westin Hilton Head, absolutely one of our favorite podcast conversations ever! 

Happy New Year! 

See you on the open road! 

Episode 98B - This is part two of the conversation recorded at the Westin Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. If you haven't listened to 98A with Steve French from the Westin make sure you do so.
In this episode, we talk with news anchor Owen Conflenti, who's been getting up at 2:30 am for seventeen years to deliver the morning news in Houston. Owen has amassed a large social media following of over one million followers on Tik Tok offering a fun approach to the sometimes heavy work of delivering the news.
Owen and TWM podcast host Mike Schibel were college broadcasting partners at Emerson College. Winning Associated Press Best College Sports Radio show two years in a row and play-by-play announcers for the Emerson basketball team.
In this episode, Mike and Owen talk about some of their past shared experiences, reminisce on college adventures, and Owen talks about his connection to the Carolinas. Owen also gets very vulnerable about his feelings about travel, how this trip was an important step to regain his desire for future adventures. 
This episode also includes a conversation about the shared experience Mike and Owen had while in Hilton Head and the unique experiences they had exploring the island. 
As friends for over twenty-five years, this episode was meaningful and a long time coming. A BIG thank you to Steve French and the team at the Westin Hilton Head for the warm hospitality. We loved our time in the Low Country and look forward to returning!

Episode 98 of the podcast is a special two-part conversation 98A and 98B recorded at the Westin Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. 

Our guest for episode 98 is Houston news anchor/content creator Owen Conflenti. Owen also happens to be the college broadcasting partner of TWM podcast host Mike Schibel  We learn more about Owen and his meaningful travels in episode 98B. 

In episode 98A Mike and Owen talk with Steve French, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Westin Hilton Head.  Steve shares his insights on what makes Hilton Head so unique, why he's come back to live on the island three times, and his most meaningful/memorable trip.

 A big thank you to Steve and the team at the Westin Hilton Head for the warm hospitality and for introducing TWM to the magic of the Low Country.

Enjoy this episode and make sure to listen to the second part of episode 98 with Owen Conflenti. 

Episode 97 features a conversation with TV host Jason Zone Fisher. A  passionate traveler who turned his love for sports, curiosity for adventure, and why not mentality into a thriving on-camera career.  

After winning a dream opportunity with Gillette traveling to major sporting events and experiences with his best friend, Jason knew anything was possible.  Jason shared one of his most meaningful travel moments happened while on the road, with another major brand, Butterfinger .  He had two days off in Kansas City. After sampling dozens of BBQ restaurants on day one Jason decided to drive 7 hrs to the NBA Finals in Oklahoma City on day 2.  What happened next is a travel story that drastically changed the course of Jason's life and career.  Listen to the full podcast to hear the story or click here to watch the Youtube video. 

About Jason Zone Fisher:  a versatile host and producer, with unique expertise in sports, travel, food, game shows, and branded entertainment. He has hosted and produced shows for Travel Channel, Big Ten Network, CNBC, Nickelodeon, Bravo, USA Network, Food Network and has become one of the go-to hosts for the NBA. Jason currently hosts a popular podcast with former NBA All-Star Baron Davis, and is a regular on the NBA's App, Twitch channel and social accounts - reporting from all major events - from Draft to Summer League, All-Star Weekend through the Finals and more. He is touring the nation as an emcee for ProCamps with various major college basketball programs and NBA athletes. He's served as a sideline reporter for the World Armwrestling League (yes, that's a thing!) on B/R Live and the Alliance of American Football on NFL Network. He has served as host and spokesman for numerous brands including Express, Gillette, Butterfinger, Skype, Esurance, Nerf, Evian, Mastercard, Kingsford, Jack Links, MaximBet, Homage and Pizza Hut - where represented the brand as the "Pizza Hut All-American" at every NCAA Championship in every sport.  Jason is a proud graduate of the Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University, and a lifelong Cleveland sports fan.  Known for his high-energy, Jason tried sleeping once, but decided that wasn't for him!

Episode 96 features a conversation with Lauren Gay AKA Outdoorsy Diva, an extraordinary traveler who carved out her own path and inspired countless people along the way.

Lauren is the creator of Misadventures of an Outdoorsy Diva Blog,  host/producer of the award-winning Adventure Is A Lifestyle Podcast, published photographer, speaker, consultant, on-air TV travel expert, and adventure coach.  She is a monthly travel expert on CBS Great Day Live Tampa Bay. She is also a travel writer and social media influencer who is passionate about inspiring and empowering black women to step out of their comfort zones for new experiences in travel and adventure and embracing nature as therapy.  Lauren is also an empty nest mom and a dedicated long-time advocate for racial diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation and adventure travel and a founding member of the Black Travel Alliance.

We loved our conversation with Lauren and think you'll be inspired by her stories. 

In this episode, Lauren share's the most meaningful adventure she has ever had was with her son in the Spring of 2022 abroad on an Uncruise Adventure Ship in Mexico. 

Lauren had no idea that this episode was sponsored by Uncruise and we loved how organically and authentically she shared how much she loved her time cruising with Uncruise. 

Big thank you to our friends at Uncruise for sponsoring this episode and for more information about Uncruise click here  - make sure you use the code TWM500 to save $500 on an Uncruise adventure! 

Hello travelers, in episode 95 we talk with Stephanie Daniel, the CEO, and Co-Founder of a unique new travel app, Legend. Stephanie does not come from a traditional travel industry background, but as we've found from talking with countless guests travel has impacted all of our lives and careers. Stephanie is no different as travel shaped who she is and lead her to launch this innovative concept. 

As Stephanie shared with us, she believes that travel and exploration lead to authentic connection and growth for us as individuals and as a collective. When combined with the community it powers mutual evolution. Her mission is to build a platform that empowers us all to explore more and authentically connect with ourselves, each other, and the world.

Stephanie grew up in a tiny village in England, where her horizons grew through travel, and her love for exploring was born. She studied Economics at Cambridge and spent more than fourteen years in investment banking with Deutsche Bank in London and New York, working with amazing global teams and gaining the strongest foundation in markets, finance, and management. Travel continued to be a passion in the deepest part of her soul, and through her experiences and connections, she developed a strong belief that tech and community had the potential to make it better. Stephanie is beyond excited to now be harnessing her entrepreneurial spirit to bring Legends to life!

About Legends:

Legends are a community app for explorers, travelers, new nomads, and freedom seekers. We unlock your lifelong journey by creating your unique Travel DNA made up of your own experience of the world. Our proprietary tech and community-powered approach help you share trusted recommendations, discover amazing places and connect with your people.

Enjoy our conversation with Stephanie, check out Legends and shoot us a note to let us know what you think!

In this episode, we talk with, Cara Federici, the Founder, and CEO of the Madison Melle Agency.  Cara has a long career in hospitality working with prestigious global brands. It's her savvy eye for design, forward-thinking innovation, and detail that has her agency positioned as a positive force in the new dawn of hospitality.

A self-described city slicker, Cara shares with us where her love for hospitality, design, and travel comes from and the meaningful moments that have shaped her life and career.

The Madison Melle Agency is a multi-faceted creative studio & lifestyle consultancy, ideating and operating one-of-a-kind media, technology, hospitality, food & beverage, retail, and real estate brands. Federici’s proven track record
of success is derived from collaborating with a multitude of the world’s most notable names in their respective industries, including Fast Company, Standard Hotels, Palisociety, InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and Proper Hospitality.

Federici’s current and past portfolio comprises an array of highly sought-after, luxury lifestyle
companies and market leaders, such as Brookfield Properties, Relais & Châteaux’s Calabash Grenada, Casetta Group, Bridgeton Hospitality, Two Bunch Palms, Marram Montauk, Walker Hotels, Petit Ermitage, Saira Hospitality, Wylder Hotels, Cachet Hotels, Solay App, and Skypod, as well as a variety of highly acclaimed media, retail, communications, and hospitality ventures.

Federici launched Tech Theory Group in 2020, a high-performance technology advisory firm, designing and delivering best-in-class managed information technology solutions and infrastructure services. Tech Theory Group realized a compelling need in the
marketplace existed for simple, transparent, cost-effective hospitality technology services. Tech
Theory Group delivers these core competencies to clientele through a collective partnership of
experienced IT architects, engineers, designers, consultants, and business executives across the globe.

Federici attended Parsons School of Design in New York City and graduated Cum Laude from Tulane University, with a Bachelor of the Arts in Communications and a double minor in Business and Art Studio. Federici holds a completed Certificate of Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management from Cornell University.
Federici is currently based in Southern California with offices for The Madison Melle
Agency and Tech Theory Group in Los Angeles.

Enjoy our conversation with Cara Federici.

Gathering the Travel With Meaning community of like-minded travelers together to hear meaningful stories from our special guests is what we missed most during the pandemic.  Episode 93 features not one but two incredible guests for the podcast recorded in front of an intimate audience at the Shay Hotel in Culver City, CA. This event was a collaboration with Wanderful and their LA Chapter. Our extraordinary guests Nailah Hayward and Rachel Firchau are two meaningful content creators and have both been active within the Wanderful community and with Travel With Meaning.

Big thank you to our partners to help make this event a success Travelers Autobarn, State Bags and Book Outdoors are supporters of sharing authentic meaningful stories and providing raffle prizes for the audience attending. Thank you also to all the people who watched the conversation live through zoom and thank you again to the Shay for hosting us and providing a raffle prize of a Shaycation.

About our two guests:
Nailah Hayward
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA Nailah is a passionate traveler and advocate for others' travel adventures.  Starting her popular travel blog “There’s So Much To See” in 2009. As the LA Chapter Director for Wanderful Nailah helps organize community events and inspire her fellow travel community.

Rachel Firachu - AKA Rachel Off Duty
Balancing her passion for travel and her corporate job has given Rachel a new spin on her popular travel blog “Rachel Off Duty” instead of quitting her job to travel she’s utilized her professional stability to thrive in workcation opportunities all over the world. Born and raised in Hawaii her wanderlust interest came at an early age and her desire to inspire other women to see the world has been the basis for Rachel Off Duty. One of her recent adventures to Lebanon has sparked her interest to lead trips to places that moved her. To find out more about Rachel’s small group trip to Lebanon click here.

Enjoy our conversation with Naialah and Rachel.

In this episode, we talk about Scot's passion for travel and how it lead to launching the Travel Academy. An initiative with State Bags and Puzzle International to provide the opportunity of travel for young adults from disadvantaged neighborhoods.  Travel With Meaning podcast host, Mike Schibel was lucky enough to be a last-minute addition to the inaugural Travel Academy trip in California and even earned a special nickname. The Travel Academy California adventure was turned into a short film premiering on October 2, 2022, online.  Click here to see the inspiring trailer of the film.

More about Scot Tatelman:

Scot defines the term ‘social entrepreneur’ and has made it his life’s work to balance profitable business ventures with making the world a better place. In 2005, he collaborated with The Mark Wahlberg Foundation and The Boys and Girls Club to create Camp Northbound - a residential camp for kids growing up in the inner cities of Boston. Following its success, Scot set out to build a similar program for kids in New York City’s most underfunded communities, creating Camp Power. In fourteen years, the volunteer-based nonprofit organization provided life-changing experiences, positive role models and college scholarships to thousands of kids. After seeing many Camp Power kids carrying their belongings in ripped trash bags, he and his wife founded STATE Bags - a Brooklyn-born bag brand that uses the power of business to give back and support American children and families in need, in the ways they need it most. He has worked to evolve their charitable model through STATE's innovative giving initiatives and #WhatDoWeTellTheKids platform and recently launched a consulting company to help build out the company's charitable and giving efforts.   Scot is a graduate of UVM and a Boston native, he currently resides in Northern California with his wife, two kids, and dog, Bird.

This could be one of our favorite and most inspiring episodes ever!

Episode 91 was recorded in front of a live audience at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills and is brought to you by our partner, Los Cabos Tourism. 

Our special guest, Danni Washington, is a Science Communicator, Author, and TV Host. Making her return to the TWM podcast, she shares her love for the Pacific Ocean + Los Cabos and even drops hints about the top secret NatGeo show she's hosting.

Danni, a Miami native of Jamaican descent, graduated from The University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric with a Marine Science and Biology degree. At age 21, Danni and her mom launched the non-profit Big Blue & You, dedicated to inspiring and educating youth about marine Science through the arts and media. 

Danni is a full-time dedicated marine science communicator, a part-time educational "mermaid," and an unstoppable rising media star brilliantly educating and entertaining. Standing at the intersection of Science and the public at large, Danni is the first African American woman of color to host an American Science TV show. Her new book geared towards youth, Bold Women In Science, tells the inspiring stories of fifteen women who changed the course of Science.

Danni is currently in production as the sole host of a "top secret" National Geographic Disney + mega-budgeted premium limited documentary series. She is the host of Season 1 of The Genius Generation; a new podcast focused on young people behind an incredible invention, entrepreneurial pursuit, or discovery using Science. Previously, Danni was a featured correspondent for the weekly nationally syndicated CBS series Mission Unstoppable, hosted and executive produced by Miranda Cosgrove and Geena Davis. Danni has also hosted Xploration Nature Knows Best on Fox and Amazon Prime, a STEM educational TV series featuring the latest bio-inspired technology and design advancements. Danni has also worked with other significant STEM shows, including Facebook Watch and Science the $#!* Out Of It to Science Channel's Strange Evidence.

Her new book, geared towards youth Bold Women In Science, tells the inspiring stories of fifteen women who changed the course of Science. Now Danni supports changing the system by serving as a judge for the Tom Ford Plastic Innovation Prize 2021. Danni is also a proud Board Member of the North American Association of Environmental Education.                                                                             

Thanks to Danni for sharing her inspiring stories and LOVE for Los Cabos. We look forward to having you back on the podcast to tell us all about your NatGeo show coming out in Spring 2023! A big thank you to all our partners, Los Cabos Tourism, the Waldorf Astoria, State Bags, and all who attended this special live podcast evening!  

In episode 116, we are thrilled to host visionary filmmaker and storyteller Danny Lee, whose work has profoundly impacted the arts and travel landscape. Danny's journey began with his passion for hip hop, street art, and sports, which he seamlessly wove into a thriving filmmaking career. He takes us behind the scenes of his latest PBS project, "The Express Way with Dulé Hill," highlighting unsung heroic artists across America and showcasing the transformative power of art in healing communities and catalyzing change.

Danny recounts his experiences, from a life-changing trip to Taiwan to a trip early in his professional career to explore his roots in Korea,  the diverse streets of Los Angeles, and how his father's passing pushed him to pursue his dreams. He delves into the importance of mentorship and nurturing emerging talent, reflecting on his journey of self-discovery and authentic storytelling. Join us as Danny Lee shares the moments that shaped his career, emphasizing the importance of cultural bridges and the human connections that define us.

Subscribe and share if you enjoy the episode, and don't forget to check out "The Express Way with Dulé Hill" on PBS.

Special thank you to this episodes sponsors:

Smooth Move, the #1 tea for going #2. For more information visit  Traditionalmedicinals.com/smoothmove to shop today and use SM20OFF for a 20% discount

World Trips, Atlas Journey travel insurance, visit www.worldtrips.com to explore your coverage options and travel fearlessly with an Atlas Journey plan from WorldTrips.

As always, we appreciate your support, please leave a rating, comment, and share the episodes you love. We look forward to seeing you on the open road!

Episode 90  features a conversation with a digital trailblazer who found healing and transformation in nature.

Shira Lazar is the founder and CEO of the Emmy Nominated digital media brand What's Trending. She is the host of the afternoon drive show Let’s Go There weekdays on CHANNEL Q, an Audacy Original Station, and the award-winning LGBTQ+ Talk Radio Network.

She has also been named one of Fast Company’s Most Influential Women in Technology, Huffington Post’s “Women in Tech to follow on Twitter”, honored on the Variety Women of Impact list, and Cynopsis Top Women In Digital.

A BIG Web3 advocate, collector, and advises as well as consults with companies in the space relating to cryptocurrency, NFTs and the metaverse. 

As a broadcaster, Shira uses her platforms to create content and education around Web3, bridging the gap between the industry, creators, and consumers. She hosts weekly Twitter Spaces shows, #AlphaMondays and Women in Web3 Weekly, brings viewers the top five NFT stories of the week on Instagram, and just launched Inside Web3 airing weekly as a podcast and on KNX News 91.FM in Los Angeles. 

While in quarantine in April 2020, Shira co-founded  PeaceInside.Live,  a wellness community and platform offering virtual classes, workshops, and retreats. PIL is constantly working to break down the barriers of entry to make tools for well-being accessible for all via our community experiences and our workplace programs.

Previously, Shira hosted the weekly pop culture Facebook live show, Circa Pop Live! for Circa.com and was a West Coast contributor for HLN's "The Daily Share", where she covered all things social media and digital trends for the network. As the leading broadcaster and interviewer in the digital space, Shira has been the face of the biggest live streams on the web from awards shows to red carpet premieres including, The Oscars, The Grammys, and Tony Awards among many others.  Lazar is a Webby Awards Honoree, Streamy Awards, and IAWTV Winner For Best Web Series Live Host.

Enjoy our conversation with the wonderful Shira Lazar.

In episode 89 we catch up with Lindsay Myers at the newly remodeled Viceroy Santa Monica.  Lindsay tells us about some of the exciting projects and travels she's working on. We also hear about the fun shared experience that podcast host Mike Schibel, and Lindsay had together in Los Cabos.

Lindsay is a weekly contributor on NBC Access Hollywood, where her segments include visiting unique places around the world. She is a respected voice in the travel and lifestyle industry. With her expertise from TV exposure, and highlighting brands and venues from all over the world, she uses her experience to reach all levels of media.

Originally from Hilton Head, S.C Lindsay got her start in the TV industry as a Production Assistant on the Maurey Povich show and was later a regular on the TV reality series It's a Brad, Brad World with Brad Goreski. 

When she's not traveling the world for Access Hollywood Lindsay is creating stories for her popular blog, Get Lost With Lindsay.

Enjoy this episode and fun conversation with Lindsay Myers

This episode was sponsored by Los Cabos Tourism.  One of the world's premiere travel destinations with a variety of luxury and family-friendly resorts.  Los Cabos has everything you need and so much more.  For more information go to visitloscabos.travel

Episode 88 of the podcast was record at Bluestone Lane on Rose Ave in Venice Beach with the CEO and Founder of Blunestone Lane Nicholas Stone.

A former professional AFL Football Player (6 years), Corporate Finance banker (11 years Australia, USA, UK) and currently Founder & CEO of Bluestone Lane.

Bluestone Lane is the fastest growing premium cafe brand in the United States, with +65 locations across 9 markets (NY, LA, SF, DC, NJ, PA, MA & Toronto CDN). Headquartered in New York City, Bluestone Lane is influenced by Australian independent coffee-culture, and is committed to providing elevated cafe experiences focused on human connection.

Nick was a 2019 Finalist in EY's New York Entrepreneur of the Year.

Nick has been recognized as one of World’s Young Leaders of the Future and has been featured in the New York Times, CNBC, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, Australian Financial Review, The Age, Forbes, GQ and Vogue USA. Nick has been a featured guest on +15 podcasts since 2019, available on Spotify and iTunes stores.

Prior to founding Bluestone Lane a complete hospitality "outsider", Nick spent 11 years in corporate finance and advisory in Australia, New York and London, after beginning his career as a professional AFL footballer for 6 seasons following selection in the 1999 AFL National Draft.

Enjoy our conversation!

In Episode 87 we speak with Danny Guerrero,  Founder, The Culturist Group (TCG). His accomplishments are astounding and driving change.

In this episode we hear Danny's meaningful travel stories from his first international trip to Korea, his experience interning for San Diego Tourism Board and the special trip to Paris with his mom. Also sharing about the work his doing now and how it all began.  

It was Danny's connection and commitment to local communities throughout his twenty plus years in travel marketing that inspired him to launch his own company, The Culturist Group (TCG).

TCG is  a 100% minority-owned travel marketing company. As a thought leader for multicultural and diversity in travel Danny has been an active proponent of culture-forward thinking for travel brands and destinations as a means to help increase equity and inclusion in the travel industry.

​TCG was established at a time when shifting cultural identities and the need for more diversity, equity and inclusion in the travel industry finally became a priority. TCG believes that the travel industry and the brands, and destinations that participate in it can be a force for good.

CULTURIST as a concept and consultancy practice, bridges cultural values with multicultural travel strategies to support clients to sustain better connections who consider where and with whom they travel as an extension of who they are.

As social justice and diversity in travel became transparent during the uprising of Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, many travel brands struggled to find ways to bridge and connect with multicultural and underrepresented markets. Beginning in 2018 Danny forward thinking advocated for and led the delivery of key programs for destinations and far-reaching industry research on emerging and underrepresented travelers. 

Danny championed industry-wide groundbreaking research supporting prolific travel brands such as Hilton, Choice Hotels International, Tripadvisor, NYC & Company, Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board on Black and Hispanic travelers, revealing these two segments alone representing nearly 30% of all U.S. travel spend, reaching in excess of $280M annually. His work has led to the bestowing of grants and funds to Black and diversity in travel organizations in excess of $100,000 to empower underrepresented voices in the travel marketing.

He has been at the helm of multiple award-winning brand marketing and communications programs for destinations, hospitality and travel brands on nearly every continent. Prior to founding The Culturist Group, he spent a decade of his career building and leading agency teams at two well-respected firms, MMGY Global and DCI.  Prior to spent a decade in destination marketing with in house roles for hotel management and tour operators. His career portfolio includes research and public relations leadership for Visit California, Viceroy Hotel Group, Hilton, Sensei Retreats, Fiji Airways, Tourism Chile, The Travel Corporation, Visit West Hollywood, Los Cabos Tourism, Sonoma County Tourism, Destination Cleveland to name a few.  

​Danny is a frequent guest speaker at travel and tourism conferences advocating for underrepresented travelers and illuminating how shifting demographics, travel sentiment and culture represent opportunities for the travel industry. Dedicated to advocating underrepresented travelers and promoting travel for diverse youth and volunteers with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, INROADS (and Mrs. Obando's 8th grade class). 

Danny graduated with a B.A. in Political Science and Marketing from the University of California, Riverside with Chancellor's Honors. He is an Executive MBA Candidate at the UCLA Anderson School of Management (Class of 2024), where he was awarded a Dean's Fellowship. Early in his career Danny served as an intern for President Bill Clinton serving in the White House Visitors Office and was a career intern at the San Diego Tourism Authority. 

He is a recipient of the ‘Outstanding Contribution Award’ granted by the World Travel and Tourism Council for his work advancing diversity and equity in the industry in 2021, and the Chairman’s Award granted by the National Association of Black Meeting Professionals.

​Danny and his husband Jaime reside in Los Angeles, California.