Wander Lounge

Elevate Your Travel Game. Tales from a Pro Travel Agent with Miriam Nodzo

In this episode of Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel sits down with Miriam Nodzo, the founder of Elevate Travel Group. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Miriam, a certified travel associate and counselor, shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to leisure travel. She delves into the significance of crafting personalized and meaningful travel experiences and offers valuable insights for solo female travelers, including essential safety tips and strategies for personal growth.
Beyond travel planning, Miriam highlights the role of travel agents, the power of building strong client relationships, and practical advice for those looking to transition into this fulfilling career. Whether you’re an aspiring travel professional or a wanderlust-driven explorer, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to enhance your travel experience.
CONNECT WITH US:
ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge, https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/
MIRIAM Nodzo: @elevate_travel_group , https://www.elevatetravelgroup.com/

The Balancing Act of Freelancing With Brooke McPheeters

In this episode of Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel sits down with Brooke McPheeters, a multi-talented dancer, artist, and freelancer based in Las Vegas. Brooke's background is as diverse as it is impressive. She has worked with iconic teams like the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs and the NBA's Knicks City Dancers, performed on stages across 33 countries, and traveled to 55. Her love for dance, travel, and meaningful connections shines through in every aspect of her life. Brooke emphasizes the importance of being present, balancing work and relaxation, and getting to know yourself through travel. Brooke's journey is a testament to the transformative power of travel, the importance of being present, and the beauty of pursuing a multifaceted life filled with creativity and connection.
CONNECT WITH US:
ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge, https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/
BROOKE MCPHEETERS: @brookemcfab

The Smallest Wave: Dolores Reynals on Resilience, Femininity, and Redefining Home

In this episode of The Wander Lounge podcast, we sit down with actress, author, and world traveler Dolores Reynals, whose incredible journey began with a dramatic birth story in Mendoza, Argentina. Initially thought to be in critical condition, Dolores's life was saved by a nurse who heard her cry—an event that set the tone for her resilient and determined spirit. From leading her first school protest against unfair grading to forging a career in acting, Dolores has consistently demonstrated her courage to stand firm in her beliefs.
Now a global citizen, Dolores has embraced an international lifestyle, calling cities like London, Buenos Aires, Madrid, Los Angeles, Tulum, Mexico City, and Athens home. In this heartfelt conversation, Dolores reflects on her solo travel adventures, shaped by her mother’s work as a travel agent, and shares insights from her book The Smallest Wave, which delves into themes of femininity, authenticity, and the search for home.
Join us as we explore Dolores's perspectives on navigating a nomadic lifestyle, the interplay between creativity and culture, and the transformative power of curiosity and resilience in travel. This is an episode that will inspire you to embrace the world with open arms and an adventurous spirit!
CONNECT WITH US:
ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge , https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/
DOLORES REYNALS: @doloresreynals ,
Buy The Smallest Wave: https://a.co/d/dWEbNua

Amanda Almasri: Embrace Your Interests and Explore at Your Own Pace

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel engages in a captivating conversation with Amanda Almasri, who shares her decade-long journey as an expat. Amanda recounts her experiences living in Shanghai, Chiang Mai, London, and now San Francisco, highlighting the challenges and joys of expat life. The discussion covers the transient nature of living abroad, the stress of visa renewals, and the sense of community she found in different cities. Amanda also reflects on the impact of COVID-19, cultural differences, and her personal growth through travel and education, offering inspiration and practical advice for aspiring travelers.
Connect w/ us:
Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge
Website: https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/

Ella Parlor: When Life Gives You Lemons…Write a Best-Selling Book

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel converses with Ella Parlor, a marketing expert, author, podcaster, and real estate investor. Ella recounts her successful career in the alcohol industry and the health challenges that led her to reevaluate her life. She discusses her best-selling book, "High Tolerance," and the transformative role of travel in her healing process. Emphasizing resilience and self-discovery, Ella inspires women to find purpose beyond societal expectations and embrace solo travel. The episode highlights themes of empowerment, community, and the enriching experience of engaging with diverse cultures.
Connect w/ us:
Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge
Website: https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/
Ella Parlor:
Website: ellaparlor.com
Instagram: @ellayourbella
Podcast: https://ellayourbella.com/podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsRUGtoFy_-irazxK3XilvA
“High Tolerance” https://www.amazon.com/dp/1962656004

Marlisa Giacone: A Speech Therapist’s Expat Journey

In this episode of the Wander Lounge, host Ariel chats with Marlisa Giacone, an international speech therapist. Marlisa shares her journey as a traveler and expat, discussing her work in speech pathology in China and Hong Kong, and her upcoming move to Germany. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the joys and challenges of travel, the importance of community, and the freedom to define your own path in life. The episode wraps up with practical travel tips and encouragement for listeners to embrace their own unique paths.
Connect with us:
Marlisa Giacone: @missglobetrotter11
Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/
Resources:
Girl Gone International: https://girlgoneinternational.com/

Sahara Rose De Vore: How Travel Coaching Can Transform Your Life

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, Ariel sits with Sahara Rose De Vore, the founder and CEO of the Travel Coach Network. Sahara shares her inspiring journey from a broke college student dealing with anxiety and depression to becoming a successful entrepreneur by creating the first ICF Accredited Program for Travel Coaches. She discusses her extensive travel experiences to over 84 countries, the creation of the Travel Coach Network, and the concept of wellness travel coaching. The conversation highlights the emotional and personal motivations behind travel, emphasizing its importance for personal well-being and corporate wellness. Sahara also shares practical travel tips and her philosophy of embracing spontaneity in travel.
Sahara Rose De Vore is a published author, global speaker, TEDx speaker, and has been in over 200 media outlets for her travel and business expertise including Forbes, Travel Weekly, Conde Nast Traveler, TripAdvisor, CNBC, WISN-12, and CNN Travel. Sahara was named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse Sahara Rose De Vore is the Founder and CEO of The Travel Coach Network, a global community of travel coaches!
* Connect with Ariel: @wander_louge *
* https://www.ariel-travis.com/ *
* Connect with Sahara Rose De Vore: @thetravelcoachnetwork *
* Website: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.com/ *
* website: https://sahararosetravels.com/ *
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahararosethetravelcoach/ *
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravelcoachnetwork/ *
* Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/ *
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaRoseTheTravelCoach/ *
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theTravelCoachNetwork/ *
* Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sahararosethetravelcoach *
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoachnetwork *
* Podcast: https://anchor.fm/thetravelcoachnetwork *
* Free Beginner's Guide to Travel Coaching:
https://thetravelcoachnetwork.mykajabi.com/main-email-series-and-workbook *

Sojourner White: The Train Travel Queen

In this episode of Wander Lounge, host Ariel interviews Sojourner White, a seasoned traveler, digital nomad, remote social worker and award winning travel journalist. Sojourner shares her passion for train travel, emphasizing the journey over the destination, and her dedication to countering hustle culture. Sojourner discusses the practicalities and pleasures of train travel, the impact of travel on personal growth, and offers insights into balancing a 9 to 5 job with a thriving travel influencer career. Tune in for compelling stories, travel tips, and a deeper understanding of mindful traveling. You may have seen her work in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, and more!
Connect w/ us:
Get Sojourner’s free guide: 25+ Train Travel Tips to prepare you for your next journey! ( https://deft-artisan-101.ck.page/c04fe90ffa )
Watch Sojournies on YouTube: Dive into Sojourner’s world, from train travel and remote work to social work and solo travel tips for Black women. YouTube Channel.( https://www.youtube.com/@Sojournies )
Follow Sojourner on Instagram @thesojournies or check out
( https://sojournies.com/ )
Follow Ariel on instagram @wander_lounge or check out ( https://www.ariel-travis.com/ )

Dr. Katrina Overby: Addressing Solo Travel Misconceptions

In this episode, host Ariel Travis swaps roles and is interviewed by her cousin Dr. Katrina Overby, an activist scholar with a rich background in media and cultural studies. They discuss the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone through travel and Ariel shares invaluable insights and practical tips for women who aspire to embark on solo travel adventures, emphasizing safety, budgeting, and the importance of cultural immersion. This episode also touches on the impactful moments from Ariel and Katrina's shared travel experience to Puerto Rico. Tune in to be inspired and empowered to book your next trip! ¿Por qué no?
Connect With Dr. Katrina Overby:
@dr_ko_08
Connect With Ariel:
@wander_lounge
https://www.ariel-travis.com/

Calen Otto: $300 Plus a Bike and a Dream

This episode features Calen Otto host of the Unruly Travel podcast, author, and a traveller known for embarking on a unique cross-country biking adventure with minimal resources. Starting with a fascination inspired by another adventurer, Calen decided to bike across the USA with only $300, trading work for their needs along the way. Now having visited 34 states, 20 national parks, and over 30 countries on a tight budget, Calen has become a spokesperson for sustainable travel, animal rights, and living an 'unruly' lifestyle against the norms. The episode delves into their views on veganism, its intersections with other social justice issues, and how travel can both challenge and reinforce our perceptions and behaviors towards sustainability.
Connect With Calen:
@unruly_traveller
https://wanderwoman.online/
Connect With Ariel:
@wander_lounge
https://www.ariel-travis.com/
Resource Links:
The Smell of Money: https://www.smellofmoneydoc.com/