Thank you again for being an amazing part of our community. We will be back before you know it. Until then, stay tuned on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest updates. Take care, and we'll catch up with you soon!

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we journey through Lisbon's captivating history, from the medieval allure of Alfama to the resilience shown after the 1755 earthquake. The São João Festival comes alive in June, adding vibrancy to the city, while Belém boasts maritime landmarks and the renowned Pasteis de Belém bakery. The Chiado district caters to art enthusiasts, and the modern Parque das Nações reflects contemporary architecture. Lisbon's culinary scene, featuring the Mercado da...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we invite you on a fascinating exploration of Portugal and the Iberian Peninsula. Our journey begins with an appreciation for Portugal's natural beauty and the genuine warmth exuded by its people. As we go through the historical backdrop, we traverse the Celtic and Iberian tribal eras, the Roman Empire's influence, and the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus. We witness Portugal's emergence as a kingdom, navigate through the complexities of the Iberian...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," join us as we learn more about the captivating city of Barcelona. Today, we will delve into the historic Gothic Quarter, tracing its roots back to the Roman village of Barcino, revealing medieval wonders, and uncovering scars from the Spanish Civil War. Then, La Ribera District's vibrant history unfolds, from being a hub for merchants and artisans to its connection with Pablo Picasso, showcased at the Pablo Picasso Museum. We then stroll down the...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," the spotlight is on the architectural genius Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. Beginning with a revisit to Casa Batlló and its whimsical beauty, we will unfold Gaudí's other masterpieces like Casa Milà, highlighting the blend of creativity and functionality. Our journey will then continue at the Sagrada Família, a testament to Gaudí's spiritual and artistic evolution, with its ongoing construction and symbolic design. This episode also delves into Gaudí's...

In today's episode, we will continue our journey through Barcelona, which we will reveal its unique cultural and historical layers, highlighting its identity within the autonomous community of Catalonia and the distinct Catalan language. We touch upon the lasting impact of the Spanish Civil War and its connection to the era of Franco's dictatorship. A particularly poignant tale unfolds, illustrating the profound link between Barcelona's cultural identity and its cherished soccer club, FC...

In this episode of "Places People Purposes," we will take you on a captivating journey through the thriving metropolis of Barcelona, Spain, a city cherished by Mom, Sherri, and I. We trace Barcelona's roots back to its Roman foundation as Barcino, highlighting enduring legacies such as defensive walls and the Temple of Augustus. This unfolds through the Carolingian Empire, the Crown of Aragon's medieval splendor, and the 18th-century War of the Spanish Succession, shaping Barcelona's...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we explore San Sebastian, a post-World War II culinary haven renowned for its Basque cuisine and innovative pintxos bars. The historic Parte Vieja reveals gems like the 16th-century Church of San Vicente and the lively Plaza de la Constitución, hosting unique events like the Tamborrada drum festival. Beyond its culinary prowess, San Sebastian hosts the prestigious International Film Festival, and the modern Kursaal Conference Centre serves as a...

In today's episode, we will take you on a journey through the cultural wonders of Bilbao and San Sebastian in the Basque Country. We delve into Bilbao's vibrant identity and its world-famous cuisine, particularly the delicious Gilda pintxo. From the lively festivals, such as Semana Grande, to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao reveals a captivating blend of Basque traditions and modern influences. Transitioning to San Sebastian, we explore the city's historical tapestry from Roman times to...

In today's episode, we're taking you along on our road trip through the captivating landscapes of Spain and Portugal. From the well-maintained roads to the disciplined drivers and convenient gas stops, we share the joys and challenges of exploring these countries by car. Shifting gears to Bilbao, Spain, we delve into its rich history, from fishing and trading to a thriving industrial hub. As we drive through its winding narrative, we witness Bilbao's remarkable transformation through an...

In today's episode, we will continue to explore the culturally rich Galicia region, focusing on the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and the world-renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Galicia's unique cultural identity, including its Gallego language, traditional music, and Celtic history, will be highlighted, while its delectable seafood cuisine and charming old town restaurants will be celebrated. The Cathedral of Santiago, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Baroque...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we explore Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, following an overview of Galicia's historical journey to autonomy. Galicia's Celtic, Roman, and Christian influences have shaped its unique identity, and its natural beauty is reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest. Santiago de Compostela's history is intertwined with the legend of Saint James, whose relics led to the construction of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. This episode sets the...

In this episode, we venture to Tarifa, a picturesque coastal town at the southernmost tip of mainland Europe, where the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans meet. Tarifa's history is a rich tapestry of Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences, and its charming old town boasts narrow streets with a Moorish-Spanish fusion of architecture. The town's religious festivals, like the Feast of Our Lady of the Light, offer captivating experiences, and we were fortunate to witness a unique religious...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we delve into the captivating history and culture of Andalusia, Spain. It begins with the mysterious origins of the Iberians and their cultural influences from various civilizations. The episode highlights the significant impact of the Moors in 711 CE, which led to architectural masterpieces like the Mosque of Cordoba and the Alhambra Palace. Despite the Reconquista, cultural fusion persisted, and the region's rich history is showcased in Cordoba's...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we embark on an adventure to Spain and Portugal, celebrating our mother's 93rd birthday. Our journey begins in Spain, where we share travel logistics and uncover the rich history of Malaga, one of the world's oldest cities, founded by the Phoenicians in 770 BCE. The city's heritage reflects the influences of various rulers, including the Moors, who left their mark with the Alcazaba Fortress. The episode also explores the impact of the Spanish...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Places People Purpose! In this podcast, we dive deep into the enchanting city of Paris, exploring hidden gems and iconic landmarks that left a lasting impression on our visit. From the mesmerizing Bateaux Mouches dinner cruise along the Seine River, the rich history of the Champs-Élysées, and the significance of the Arc de Triomphe, to a personal favorite, LeGrand Filles et Fils, a renowned wine shop in the heart of Paris. We share the unique experiences...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we are going to explore the captivating neighborhood of Montmartre, located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, France. This historic enclave, initially a royal retreat with lush vineyards and iconic windmills, evolved into an artistic haven during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting luminaries like Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso, and Van Gogh. The legendary Moulin Rouge, with its can-can dancers and daring performances, took center...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we delve into the history of the iconic Eiffel Tower, from its origins in the 1889 Exposition Universelle to its enduring status as a symbol of France. This engineering marvel, constructed with puddle iron in a record time of just over two years, captivates millions of visitors annually with its breathtaking views of Paris. Despite initial skepticism, the Eiffel Tower has triumphed over time, transitioning from a temporary structure to a beloved...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we will continue our journey through the artistic heart of Paris, exploring two iconic museums: the d'Orsay and the Rodin. The d'Orsay, originally a railway station, now houses a mesmerizing collection of Western art from 1848 to 1914, featuring Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Symbolism, Art Nouveau, Fauvism, and Cubism. Monet's "Water Lilies" and van Gogh's "Starry Night" left us in awe. Then, we ventured to the Rodin Museum, offering a...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we're transitioning from our previous discussion about Paris's history up to World War II to delve into the city's post-war era. The post-World War II history of Paris was characterized by remarkable economic growth, infrastructure development, and the stable leadership of Charles de Gaulle during the 1950s and 1960s. Paris continued to shine as a cultural hub, with influential thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and artists from around the world making...

We're shifting gears and adopting a new release schedule. Starting now, you can expect two new podcasts and YouTube videos per week, dropping every Monday and Thursday. We want to express our sincere gratitude for all the time and interest you've invested in what we do. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to share this new chapter with you!

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we explore post-French Revolution France. Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power in 1799 and his subsequent rule, marked by territorial expansion and the Napoleonic Code, are discussed. The Belle Époque era from 1871 to 1914, marked by cultural flourishing and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, is explored, as is the outbreak of World War I. After the war, Paris continued to be a hub for artists and intellectuals. The episode touches on the "Années...

In today's episode of "Places People Purpose," we explore the vibrant city of Paris, known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic culture. We begin by tracing the city's origins, from the Celtic tribe of Parisii in the 3rd Century BCE to the Roman era's Lutetia. The Frankish takeover and Viking raids followed before Hugh Capet's rule brought stability in 987, initiating a prosperous era. However, challenges like The Hundred Years' War, the Bubonic Plague, and social unrest during...

In this episode of "Places People Purpose," we will continue our captivating journey through Prague, exploring its historic Jewish Quarter with the poignant Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Museum, then venturing to the timeless Strahov Monastery with its remarkable library and craft beer. We encounter the ever-evolving canvas of artistic freedom at the Lennon Wall, a symbol of rebellion during the Communist era. Delving into Czech cuisine, we savor comfort dishes like roast pork with...