Travel Wins

Christina Papavlasopoulos is my guest this week. Christina is the co-founder of the luxury boutique travel planning company, Shefari. I was excited to speak with Christina about her company beginnings and where they are headed. As the father of two daughters, I was happy to hear from other women looking to expand their circle and help empower women. Make sure to look at the bottom of this page for their upcoming woman empowerment trip, She Succeeds, to Greece this October.ABOUT CHRISTINAAdventure has been instilled in me since childhood. We moved often, and though good-byes were difficult, there was always excitement for the faces and places that lie ahead. My sense of adventure continued in college, where my interest in art history and fashion sent me on a study tour to Paris and London. I admired the intricate architecture, the chic Parisian style, and delighted in calling my parents from an infamous red telephone booth to wish them a Happy New Year. A week in France and England led to a semester in Italy,

Megan Driscoll is this week’s guest. As the CEO and Founder of the public relations firm EvolveMKD, we discussed the need for business travel for clients. Even with all of the available technology, Megan finds it necessary as ever to meet in person with clients and create face to face time. Creating lasting bonds and reputation with clients, new and existing, is essential for the way she formed her public relations company. Make sure to listen to the entire episode and check out EvolveMKD on their social media outlets.

"Voyages Unveiled: Max Martini's Cinematic Travels and Directorial Dreams"Step into the captivating world of business travel as we dive into this week's riveting episode featuring none other than the illustrious Max Martini. Prepare to be enthralled as Max takes us on an exhilarating journey through the silver screen, sharing his remarkable tales from the movie sets he's graced with his presence. But that's not all – Max's star-studded voyage has now taken him behind the camera as a director, where he orchestrates the travel experiences of all involved.With a career spanning epochs, Max Martini has rubbed shoulders with the crème de la crème of the cinematic and television realms. Join us as we uncover the secrets of how he masterfully balances life on the road while nurturing cherished relationships with family and friends. It's an honor to have delved into Max's world, gaining insight from his treasure trove of experiences.As a true testament to his cinematic prowess, Max's latest opus, "Sgt. Will Gardner,"

Gary Collins is my guest this week. Gary is a bestselling author of several books in his series called The Simple Life Guide. He also has background that includes military intelligence, Special Agent for the U.S. State Department Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Collins’ background and expert knowledge brings a much-needed perspective to today’s areas of simple living, health, nutrition, entrepreneurship, self-help and being more self-reliant. He holds an AS degree in Exercise Science, BS in Criminal Justice, and MS in Forensic Science.

Maddison McKibbin is my guest on today’s episode. It was great speaking with one half of the “Bearded Brothers” pro beach volleyball team. Maddison shared some stories about life as a professional volleyball player, indoors and beach. He also shared his snow volleyball stories as he talked about the possibility of the sport becoming a Winter Olympic game.We talked about life outside of volleyball and how players in professional sports need to diversify their talents and connections. The McKibbin brothers have successfully developed their audio/video company supporting the volleyball community and sharing the fun times with everyone.You can watch the McKibbin brothers play in the AVP beach tournaments in person or streaming on Amazon Prime. The volleyball community as a whole is welcoming to new fans and truly appreciates the support they receive.Maddison McKibbin was a three-time state champion at Punahou High in Honolulu for indoor volleyball. He was the MVP of both the 2009 Volleyball Magazine Fab 50 list a

Phoebe Mroczek is my guest on today’s episode. An extremely successful entrepreneur and podcast host of the show Unbecoming, Phoebe is well on her way to her "one name" status. Having traveled and lived in so many places at such a young age gives Phoebe some great insights to traveling for work. She has over one million downloads of her podcasts. We discuss the changing technologies for media companies and also how the changes have affected traveling for work.She is the host of Unbecoming, a podcast and nationally-syndicated radio show that helps entrepreneurs release the judgments and beliefs. Sometimes holding them back from living a more meaningful life. The show reaches 350,000+ listeners per month from 40+ countries, 16 AM/FM stations in 20 cities nationwide and across 20 Internet platforms.She built and ran a six-figure online marketing business for several years. Phoebe realized that her real passion was in helping entrepreneurs embrace their true identity. Wanting to amplify their message and have a g

“Navigating Success on the Go: Insights from PR Mogul Cathy Cardenas”In a captivating episode of our business travel podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with none other than Cathy Cardenas, the powerhouse President of CCPR, a dynamic public relations firm renowned for its innovative approach to marketing and management within the realms of sports, entertainment, and celebrity culture. Tune in as we delve into the riveting tale of Cathy's journey through the world of high-stakes business travel, where she skillfully orchestrates her clients' needs while maintaining a delicate equilibrium between her professional pursuits and cherished connections at home.Balancing Act: Traveling, Ties, and TriumphsIn this illuminating discussion, Cathy Cardenas opens up about her unparalleled expertise in juggling the intricate demands of her clients with the irreplaceable bonds of family and friends. As the captain of a ship that steers some of the brightest stars in the industry, Cathy shares her insights into how

Dave Aichinger is my guest today. Dave is the Senior Manager of Team Services for the New Era Cap Company. A unique job because Dave is the guy whose job it is to outfit the winning teams their ballcaps at the World Series and Super Bowls. An envious job for any sports fan, Dave talks about some of the realities of having to travel so much. He also share some of the differences he has seen over the past 29 years of business travel.Like many of my guests, Dave's reality of business travel is different to the everyone's perception. We talk about missing family and friends events and having to make up for lost time with our families. Another common business traveler ailment is having a hard time with hobbies and being consistent with them.

"Journey Beyond the Mat: Ryron Gracie Unveils the Adventure, Challenge, and Love in Two Decades of Globe-Trotting Jiu Jitsu"In an utterly captivating episode of our podcast, we delve into the mesmerizing life journey of Ryron Gracie, a 5th-degree black belt in the enigmatic world of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. An heir to the Gracie legacy, Ryron unfolds a tapestry of riveting travel anecdotes, laced with lessons from the 'gentle art' that have resonated far beyond the mats and into his personal life.Immersing us in a twenty-year odyssey, Ryron recounts captivating narratives from different corners of the globe, all connected by his unwavering dedication to Gracie Jiu Jitsu. As you listen, you'll be spellbound by tales of his intense training sessions, nerve-wracking fight corners, and even his experience guiding the phenomenal Ronda Rousey on her rise to stardom.As we navigate through Ryron's travelogue, we pause to explore a nuanced evolution: the transformation of a solo wanderer into a loving family man. He candidly

Jethro Alcuaz is my guest on today’s The Travel Wins weekly podcast. Jethro is an illusionist, performing magic and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We talk about his efforts traveling to different states performing magic. Some of his tricks need to be seen to be believed. We also discussed some of the similarities between performing magic and training in Brazilian jiu jitsu. Needing similar attributes to be proficient at both disciplines learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu reminded Jethro of learning a magic trick for the first time.JETHRO is available for corporate and special events to help create a magical and entertaining evening! His magic is enjoyed by audiences of all ages and is full of comedy, audience participation, and more!Please browse through the site to find more information and check back frequently as more updates are added with video, press, and photos!Illusionist and Prestidigitator, JETHRO enhanced his knowledge in magic when he graduated at Chavez Studio of Magic in La Verne, California und

Big Sandy's Musical Odyssey: A Rockabilly Traveler's TaleIn the latest episode of The Travel Wins podcast, I am joined by none other than the Rockabilly Hall of Fame inductee himself, Big Sandy. With a career spanning over three decades, Big Sandy, also known as Robert Williams, has been crisscrossing the globe with his timeless tunes since the early '90s.Big Sandy's journey into the world of music began in the mid-'80s, and it didn't take long for him to embark on a touring adventure that would take him to multiple countries and nearly every corner of the United States. Join us as we dive into the captivating story of a musician who witnessed the evolution of travel from the pre-digital era of the '90s to the technology-driven landscape of today.The '90s were a time when road warriors like Big Sandy had to rely on maps, payphones, and road atlases to navigate their way through unfamiliar territories. Discover the stark contrasts and remarkable similarities between traveling then and now, as we uncover the se

Jeanine Wright is my guest today. Jeanine is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Legal Officer at Simplecast. She also personally invests in startups, has owned and operated a business of her own and enjoys serving as a Board Advisor and Board Member to startup and growth companies.Jeanine’s worked with startup, high growth and turn-around companies for over a decade, specializing in technology, finance and entertainment & media. She co-led a team that sold a company to GoDaddy, launched an international joint venture and other partnerships with some of the world’s largest companies, solicited and closed traditional, mezzanine, and warehouse financing facilities, and assisted with equity raises from both institutional and strategic investors. While continuing to work hard, Jeanine prides herself on being able to see and overcome business and legal hurdles to propel a company’s growth and innovation.

Today’s podcast is with entertainment CEO, Toni Nicole. She is the founder & CEO of Enterprise Management and RE•IGN Movement which is a platform for Hip Hop Artist Development & Management.We talk about her personal travel habits and some tips. Toni gives tips to her younger artists about the differences between traveling for fun and traveling for work.Toni Nicole Quick BioEnterprise Management is a firm that manages Recording Artists / Actors / Writers / Comedians / Speakers. They also provide management and marketing to businesses and brands. They promote Networking Events, Conferences, Concerts, Workshops, and Fashion Shows to name a few. She is also a Co-Founder of Act of Faith Hands of Love Organization alongside National Gospel Recording Artist Howard Sapp. This organization is nonprofit and we execute community events, concerts, and conference in the USA and around the globe!

“Unveiling the Secrets of Staying Fit and Energized on Business Journeys with Tanya Stanfield”In this captivating episode of our business travel podcast, I had the pleasure of diving into the world of corporate voyages with none other than Tanya Stanfield. A true luminary in the realm of branding expertise, Tanya wears her entrepreneurial badge proudly as the trailblazing founder of "Road Warrior Strong."Navigating Wellness Amidst the Skies and HighwaysAt the heart of Road Warrior Strong lies a visionary concept: a fitness concierge meticulously crafted to cater to the unique needs of business travelers. Tanya's insights, forged through years of traversing the globe for work, paint a vivid tapestry of resilience, health, and empowerment.A Journey of Triumph and VitalityDuring our captivating conversation, Tanya eloquently shares her trove of wisdom amassed from her years of embarking on professional odysseys. She masterfully intertwines her passion for branding with her commitment to fitness, offering listene

My guest on today’s The Travel Wins podcast is Marcus Peterson. Marcus is an NFL wide receiver, model and entrepreneur. His upbringing in Inglewood California at a very small school made him realize his need to work hard and appreciate everything that happens to him is for a reason. He went on to play football in college at Seton Hill and then traveled to England where he received his MBA. While living overseas he realized how big the world is and that it doesn’t revolve around the US. We also discuss his apparel business, MP Motivational Brand, and what his future holds for him after his football career is done.I love the fact that he is using motivational phrases for his apparel. Anyone that is sharing positive vibes to the world needs to be recognized.

Here is my podcast with personal trainer Curtis Fisher. Curtis has 20 plus years experience training himself and others to be healthier and maintain fitness levels. He shares his story of clean bodybuilding while working a day job and raising a family. He shares his time constraints and is aware of us travelers reasons/excuses we have when we travel for our work.I particularly like his tips for exercising on the road without going to a gym. Providing simple exercises while being based in a hotel room is essential and easy.He also shares how to eat healthier on the road which, at least for me, is often a struggle. For me when I’m home I feel like I can control my food prep and cooking. I struggle sitting in a hotel room wondering where there are good food choices around. Curtis helps by reminding us that most restaurants have better options now and many supermarkets have deli shops and ready to eat meals inside.

How do I make it the music business?Today’s podcast is with OG Mack Drama. Mack is a nationwide personality, entrepreneur, artist, growth hacker, social media expert, artist development, label executive, consultant, traffic, writer, radio host, influencer and community figurehead with Gucci Mane and 1017 Brick Squad.His background, large family, stories on road and especially the stories of his future makes him a great guest to chat with and spend some time with. He shares his mindset for success with some behind-the-scene stories of the music industry.“Always strive to be something better, but still at the end of the day be content with what you have achieved”OG Mack Drama verified on tsu.com and twitter. @powertalkwithog is a nationwide personality, entrepreneur, artist, growth hacker, social media expert, artist development, label executive, consultant, traffic, writer, radio host, influencer and community figurehead. With the values of family and working with the “starving artists”, Mack Drama possesses a

“From Gridiron Glory to Real Estate Triumph: Hakeem Valles' Journey of Reinvention”In a captivating episode of our business travel podcast, we had the privilege to delve into the remarkable story of Hakeem Valles. This episode unveils the inspiring transformation of a former professional football star into a thriving real estate investor and influential public speaker.Once a shining star on the football field, Hakeem Valles experienced a pivotal self-realization that led him to make a courageous career switch. Recognizing that his path in the NFL might not lead to franchise stardom, he made the audacious decision to pivot towards his true passions: real estate investment and motivational speaking.In this riveting conversation, Hakeem Valles shares his intimate journey of navigating the shift from athletic arenas to the realm of real estate deals and captivating audiences with his words. With candor and insight, he reveals the inner workings of his decision-making process, offering a profound glimpse into the

On today’s podcast I’m happy to have comedian Kevin Gootee. Kevin started his career in comedy like so many other comics ….. having a regular day job. His frustration with his sales job was the extra push to get him excited about having a career in comedy. He worked countless hours at clubs in the New York area and beyond. He now has a career in comedy as well as voice over acting work and hosting his own show on Amazon called “Comics Watching Comics”. If you get a chance you need to connect with Kevin and enjoy his work.KEVIN’S BIOHis official entrance into the world of stand-up comedy began in the Spring of 2010, and he’s never looked back. Kevin’s fans have described his comedy as “cerebral fraternity guy.” He’s not sure what that means, but he likes it.He has performed at Caroline’s (NYC), the Stand (NYC), Caroline’s Comedy Club (NYC) Southpoint Casino (Las Vegas), Levity Live (NY), Standup NY (NYC), NY Comedy Club (NYC), Atlantic City Comedy Club (NJ) Broadway Comedy Club (NYC), Greenwich Comedy Club (NY

“Navigating Dual Highways: Jesse Iwuji on Balancing Life as a NASCAR Driver and Navy Officer”Jesse Iwuji is no ordinary individual. He's a dazzling blend of speed and discipline, skimming asphalt and sailing seas — a professional stock car racing driver in NASCAR's Gander Outdoors Truck Series and a commissioned officer in the United States Navy Reserve. Driving the No. 34 for Reaume Brothers Racing, Iwuji doesn't just steer wheels, he navigates complex landscapes both on and off the racetrack.The Need for Speed and ServiceJesse's journey to the pinnacle of motorsports and military service is a story of relentless dedication and unwavering commitment. Attending the United States Naval Academy, he was more than just another cadet. Jesse was a dual-athlete dynamo, serving as a free safety for the Navy Midshipmen on the college football team, while also flexing his muscles on the track and field team. Graduating in 2010, he swapped his cleats for naval boots and entered the United States Navy as a surface warfar