If you’re a foodie, brew-lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story, this episode of Speaking of Travel is going to fill your plate and your heart. We’re exploring the vibrant Atlanta culinary scene with two extraordinary guests, Chef Kevin Gillespie, the chef-owner of Gunshow and Nàdair, and co-founder of the Defend Southern Food Foundation, which provides meals for hungry families in the area. Chef Gillespie is also a speaker, author, and Top Chef icon. Also on board is Eric J...

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through history, mystery, and stunning landscapes. Join filmmaker and author Paul Bonesteel, founder of Bonesteel Films, as he unravels the story of George Masa, a Japanese photographer who arrived in Asheville, NC, in 1915 and became an unexpected hero for conservation in the Appalachian Mountains. Masa’s breathtaking photos helped inspire the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, leaving a legacy that still resonates today.Paul firs...

Join Speaking of Travel’s Leave No Trace TV series as it continues to inspire with candid, uplifting conversations about sustainable travel and resilience. Hosted by the adventurous Richard Crawford of Amazon Prime’s Leave No Trace TV, each episode dives into eco-tourism’s power to make travel a force for good. Ricky brings real, hopeful stories from around the world from people who are making a difference.With practical advice for facing today’s climate challenges, this episode pro...

Communities hit by natural disasters face not only monumental recovery challenges but also show us what’s possible when people unite with resilience and determination. These communities remind us of the strength that lies in solidarity and the importance of sustainable practices to protect against future crises. As we witness the power of rebuilding together, we must pay attention to what they’re teaching us: the urgent need to prioritize sustainable solutions, support one another, and p...

Join the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace Series with Richard Crawford, host of the popular TV show Leave No Trace, and special guest Andre Conradie, Head of Cargo & Logistics from White Desert, for an epic Antarctic adventure. Together, they'll reveal the secrets of an unforgettable, zero-footprint luxury experience on the seventh continent. Along the way, they’ll also explore the vital role education plays in sustainable travel, teaching how balancing luxury with eco-conscious p...

Natural disasters often disrupt lives, but they also reveal the strength of community. After a crisis, neighbors unite, volunteers step up, and collective resilience shines through.Lew Bleiweis, Executive Director of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, explains how the airport's swift crisis response depended on coordination, communication, and leadership. His team’s preparedness and collaboration with local authorities ensured safety while teaching valuable lessons for future e...

The San Diego Zoo is a sprawling 100-acre wonderland, offering more than just your average zoo visit. Rick Schwartz, Wildlife Ambassador for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, shares why the zoo is a world-class wildlife haven. Known for its lush, naturalistic habitats, this iconic zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals, representing about 660 species. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to conservation and creating unique animal encounters that immerse visitors in na...

Imagine a person so entwined with the rhythm of words that each breath brings forth a poem. That’s James Nave, a traveler of stories, master of memory, and a guide through the Imaginative Storm. With over 600 poems committed to heart, Nave doesn’t just recite; he conjures magic with each syllable. Whether it’s spinning tales in the streets of New York or teaching the boundless possibilities of creativity, his journey is a never-ending dance of language and life.Nave shares his journey th...

Get ready to embark on an eco-conscious adventure like no other! This episode of the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV series takes you to the icy wonderland of Antarctica with none other than Richard Crawford, the popular host of the hit TV show Leave No Trace.But that's not all—we're also joined by Louis, the maestro of Food and Beverage at White Desert, the ultra-luxury experience that promises zero impact on the pristine Antarctic environment. Imagine balancing world-class service wi...

Ready for an inspiring journey? Meet John Watson, the International Critical Care Flight Paramedic who's taking life-saving care to new heights. Whether it’s a fragile newborn or a senior in need of medical air transport, John’s there, providing top-notch care at 30,000 feet. His dedication shines through in every mission, making him a true unsung hero of the skies. And fasten your seatbelts as Tina Kinsey from the Asheville Regional Airport takes you on a thrilling ride into the future of on...

Meet Gail Wein, a world traveler, music lover, and a true New Yorker. Gail's journey is a testament to following your passions and embracing change. She shares how her real adventure began when she took a leap of faith, leaving behind a career in computer programming to pursue her love for radio. And then go on and begin her own business, Classic Music Communications.And don't miss our deep dive into the wild world of Rocky Horror. Whether you're a Rocky Horror newbie or a seasoned fan, get r...

The LEAF Global Arts Series continues with Luis Porras, a Costa Rican journalist, musician, and founder of the Jirondai Project. This initiative preserves indigenous languages and cultures through captivating audiovisual recordings, blending ancient songs with modern sounds. Luis emphasizes that when a language disappears, we lose unique ideas and our potential as a species. The Jirondai Project amplifies indigenous voices, creating world fusion music that connects the past with the present, ...

Get ready for a special episode of Speaking of Travel with the ultimate music Renaissance man, Şahan Arzruni, whose talents span far beyond the piano keys.Şahan isn’t just a world-renowned Armenian concert pianist; he’s also an ethnomusicologist, composer, producer, writer, and philanthropist. He’s dazzled audiences worldwide, from sharing the stage with the legendary Victor Borge as his comedic counterpart to writing a music textbook as a teen in Istanbul. His boundless talent and infectious...

Amanda Wrublewski, the passionate and dedicated Executive Director of Literacy Together, sheds light on a powerful truth: literacy goes beyond the basics of reading and writing. It’s about unlocking the ability to connect with others, share stories, and build a thriving community where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed. Through literacy, we can empower individuals to participate fully in society, fostering a sense of belonging and opening doors to endless...

Get ready to be inspired. Dr. Aileen Hale, the visionary behind Create-Connections and the Travel with Purpose Podcast, shares ways for travelers to make meaningful connections around the globe. If you are looking to enhance your travel experiences and leave a positive impact on the communities you visit, Dr. Hale’s insights will transform the way you see the world. And Tina Kinsey, from the Asheville Regional Airport, is giving us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the fastest-gro...

Get ready to unlock a world of adventure with Kat Medina’s book, “The Joys of Jet Lag.” Kat shares some of her most valuable lessons and uncovers the secrets to living a life full of excitement through an openhearted approach. And how fun can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary to create a life of pure joy and fulfillment, no matter where we are. Kat shares how The Joys of Jet Lag is your ultimate guide to infusing every day with the thrill of travel and how you can break free from ...

Join Richard Crawford, the charismatic host of the hit series Leave No Trace TV, as he shares his passion for conservation, sustainable travel, and eco-tourism, in our exciting Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV Series. Dive into the adventure and discover how you can catch all of Season One of Leave No Trace TV, get the latest updates on Season Two, and find out where this groundbreaking show is headed next. We'll also dive into the hot topic of accessibility, sharing insights from our t...

Being a savvy traveler is crucial to ensure safety, comfort, and the best experiences during your travels.What if you could transform your post-retirement years into a journey full of adventure and fulfillment? Join us as we uncover the vibrant world of travel for older adults in this enlightening episode of Speaking of Travel. Our guest, Betsy O'Leary, an expert in aging and senior lifestyles, sheds light on the expansive opportunities awaiting baby boomers and older individuals to explore t...

Speaking of Travel continues the LEAF Global Arts Series with Melissa McKinney, International Blues Star, LEAF teaching artist, and member of the popular band, Mama and the Ruckus, and Lucho Serapio of Asheville Multicultural. Melissa curated the artist lineup for the Black Mountain Blues inaugural festival taking place in downtown Black Mountain, NC, with hundreds of musicians and true Blues music. Black Mountain Blues Festival is a collaborative event between LEAF Global Arts and Whit...

Traveling helps you make your everyday life less boring. Travel experiences ultimately become your passions. So why not try new things and get out and explore the world?On this episode of Speaking of Travel, Josie Vosoba, founder of Lavender and Vine, a business running small-group tours to France, is an artist who loves landscapes and botanical themes, many inspired by her annual trips to Provence, France. Josie shares why she loves taking artists to Provence to experience the wonder, excite...

With a background in spa, wellness, marketing and business development, Liz Galloway has a rich history in international travel, tourism, and adventure spanning 20 years. Liz shares how her adventure-driven passion and determination has led to a transformation in her continued success in life and social change. And Liz shares how her love of creating a mind-body connection inspired her to begin her nonprofit, The Well Mind Project, providing scholarships to people in support of mental health....

The Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV Series with Richard Crawford, host of the popular TV series, Leave No Trace TV, continues with insights on conservation, sustainable travel, eco-tourism, and accessibility. Special guest Darren Edwards, a disabled adventurer, author, and motivational speaker, shares lessons he’s learned from facing the unknown head-on and by redefining persistence, resilience, and change. Discover how Darren remains positive and focused in the face of difficulties an...

Rikimah Glymph is a world traveler, a wellness guru, and she puts together exceptional travel experiences. She shares how her work with people of all backgrounds helps identify challenges to think outside of their comfort zones. Rikimah has traveled alone to over 120 countries (72 of those countries with her son), and hosts wellness retreats and logistics conferences all over the world. Rikimah challenges people to think outside of their comfort zones and helps create innovative soluti...

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Today I am living my dream of taking Speaking of Travel live with three amazing world- changing guests at the LEAF Global Arts Retreat.LEAF Global Arts plays a significant role in fostering community and over the years has become an essential role of this community and provides opportunities for people to come together and celebrate their shared customs, beliefs, and values. M...