Transform With Travel

Ever felt more frazzled than fulfilled during a family trip? You're not alone—and you're definitely not failing.

In this solo episode, host Kelly Tolliday pulls back the curtain on the three sneaky ways parents unintentionally sabotage their own family travels. From luggage that could double as a moving van to itineraries tighter than your kid’s shoes after a growth spurt, Kelly’s calling out the chaos—and offering kinder alternatives.

If you've ever packed “just in case” and ended up schlepping “never used,” this one's for you.

In this episode, Kelly shares:

What if your next vacation wasn't just about exploring new places, but also about making a positive impact on the world? Imagine a trip where you could actively participate in protecting rainforests, supporting local communities, and still find time to relax on a beautiful beach with a fresh coconut in hand. Welcome to your guide to Panama—a destination where unforgettable meets impactful.

In this week's episode of the Transform With Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Ivan Eskildsen and Maria Amelia Pezzotti, the founders of OGAYA Travel, to bring you an insider's perspective into Panama—an eco-fr...

Are you the kind of traveler who believes that true luxury is found not in golden bathtubs but in untouched beaches and close encounters with wildlife? 

Do you seek travel experiences that allow you to contribute positively to the destinations you visit? 

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had a fascinating discussion with Nicole Robinson, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer of andBeyond, about how travelers can leave a positive impact on the planet.

In this episode, we explore the ethos of andBeyond, a company that has been a leader in sustainable tr...

Are you planning your honeymoon and looking for a destination that promises more than just picturesque views and luxurious cocktails? Imagine a journey that blends romance, adventure, ancient cultures, and breathtaking natural landscapes. If this sounds like your dream trip, today’s episode is for you. 

I’m joined by Amy Mace, the Head of Marketing at ANZCRO, a DMC specialist for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, to talk about why Australia and New Zealand stand out as ideal honeymoon spots, offering unique, immersive experiences that will lay the foundation for a lifetime of love and a...

Are you seeking a travel experience that is profoundly spiritual, serene, and life-changing? 

Perhaps a destination that not only satiates your wanderlust but also aligns with your values of sustainability and cultural authenticity? 

Welcome to Bhutan, a country that embodies a unique, unspoiled cultural and natural heritage you may not have discovered before. 

Nestled between the towering Himalayas, Bhutan offers more than just scenic vistas and ancient monasteries; it encapsulates a philosophy of travel that is radically sustainable and deeply mindful of cultural preservation. 

What sets Bhutan apart is its commitment to b...

Did you know that tourism is responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions? Or that a single plastic bottle you toss while traveling could outlive your great-great-grandkids? 

Have you ever had an experience while traveling and realized that you have more power than you realize to make a positive impact? 

In this episode, we’re diving into how you can explore the world in a more sustainable way: 

Join me as we chat about:

Have you ever considered moving abroad? 

As the founder of Blaxit Global, Chrishan Wright exemplifies the spirit of empowerment through travel. Her journey, from growing up with dreams of living abroad to creating a thriving community for Black expats, offers inspiration and guidance for anyone seeking to find freedom and fulfillment in new places.

Chrishan's personal experiences exposed a lack of representation for Black expats in global narratives. Blaxit Global was born out of a desire to fill this void, providing a community where Black expats can connect, share, and support one another. The platform t...

Have you ever felt the urge to step away from the daily grind to rediscover your purpose? Perhaps a major life transition has left you questioning your path.

In today's fast-paced world, the concept of taking time off, or taking a sabbatical, can seem daunting and even impossible. Yet, many find that a deliberate and guided sabbatical can serve as a transformative experience, leading to personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Meet Monika Lewicka, an adventurer and transformational tourism leader who is passionate about empowering women to navigate significant life changes through travel.

Have you ever considered how travel can transform not just your perception of the world but also your relationship with yourself? 

In this week's episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Hannah Logan—a trailblazer in the world of travel and body confidence. 

Hannah Logan, a curvy adventure traveler from Ottawa, Canada, shares her rich experiences of visiting 80 countries, most of them solo. From her first trip to Ireland, which sparked her love for travel, to creating a successful travel blog, Hannah's passion for adventure and her growth as a content creator shine through.

Ha...

Have you ever had to adapt to a new reality that was beyond your control?

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, Donna Muccio, a travel photographer and content creator, shares her extraordinary experiences and the remarkable journey of resilience she has navigated. 

Diagnosed with a rare condition, Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (HEDS), in 2022, and living with chronic pain since childhood, Donna's story is a testament to adaptability, creativity, and strength in the face of challenging life changes.

Donna's journey took a significant turn when her chronic health conditions reached a p...

Are you and your partner dreaming of the perfect romantic getaway but don’t know where to begin? 

In this episode of Passport to Love, we welcome travel expert Adrianna Nuñez, who shares her top tips for planning the perfect honeymoon or romantic getaway. Whether you’re newlyweds or simply looking to rekindle the romance, Adrianna offers invaluable advice on how to make your trip unforgettable without the stress of overplanning.

Here’s what we discuss in this episode:

In this heartwarming episode of Passport to Love, we share the beautiful story of Esther Milanzi, who found love in the most unexpected place—while teaching abroad in Thailand. Esther’s journey is a true testament to how travel can open doors to not only new experiences but also life-changing romantic connections.

We follow Esther’s love story that began on the sun-soaked beaches of Southern Thailand, where she met a fellow American expat teacher at a beach party. Despite being on the other side of the world, fate had a surprising twist in store—they were both fro...

Have you ever dreamed of your own Eat, Pray Love moment? 

In this captivating episode of our Passport to Love series, we dive into the love story of Jennifer and Marco, who met by chance in a small coffee shop in Croatia. Jennifer, an American backpacker, was traveling the world on her own Eat, Pray, Love journey, when she met Marco, a charming Croatian working in the yachting industry. What started as a casual encounter over coffee quickly blossomed into a romance that would change the course of their lives.

Jennifer continued her adventures across t...

In this heartfelt episode of Transform With Travel, we explore the beautiful love story of Jackie Curnick, who fell head over heels for a South African dive instructor while living in the country. Jackie takes us through the magical moments of meeting her partner, the deep connection they formed, and how their shared sense of adventure and mutual respect for each other’s cultures brought them together.

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing—Jackie and her partner had to navigate the challenges of a long-distance relationship, with oceans and continents between them. Jackie shares her experience of bui...

In this uplifting episode of our Passport to Love series, we dive into the love story of Francesca Beckett, who found more than just adventure while backpacking in Australia. (Spoiler Alert: she found the love of her life!) 

Originally from England, Francesca met her partner, a dive instructor from New Zealand, in the sunny coastal city of Cairns, Australia. Their instant connection as backpackers quickly blossomed into a whirlwind romance, setting the stage for a lifelong journey together.

Francesca shares how their love grew amidst the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, and how their s...

Have you ever experienced an instant connection with someone while traveling? 

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we talk with Salecia Host as part of our Passport To Love series, sharing stories of travelers who fell in love while on the road.

In this captivating episode of our Passport to Love series, we follow the incredible journey of Salecia Host, who fell in love during a transformative experience on a Kibbutz in Israel. What started as an instant connection turned into an epic love story spanning multiple continents. 

After meeting her partner, Sa...

How can one “Yes” change the trajectory of your life? 

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we talk with Stefanie Grassley as part of our Passport To Love series, sharing stories of travelers who fell in love while on the road.

Stefanie shares her enchanting story of how she found love in one of Europe’s most picturesque cities—Copenhagen. 

Stefanie shares the magical moments that led her to meeting her Airbnb Host in Copenhagen, and how this quickly turned into the love story of her dreams. 

Listen as she shares how...

Are you tired of the same old dating scene in your local area? 

Ever wondered why connections made on a journey seem to have more spark? 

What if I told you the secret to falling in love is off the apps and into the wide expanse of the world? 

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we’re launching our Passport To Love series, sharing stories of travelers who fell in love while on the road.

To kick off the series, we’re diving into the fascinating research behind why falling in love...

Are you willing to step into the unknown to bring your dreams to life? In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I had an enlightening conversation with Marisa Folz McConnell, a visionary entrepreneur behind The Wander Shop. 

The Wander Shop was born out of Marisa's love for travel and fashion. Initially envisioned as a mobile store, Marisa's ingenuity and grit saw it evolve into a lifestyle boutique that supports local brands and artisans. With every change in her business model—from pop-up events and roaming Airstreams to stable retail locations—Marisa demonstrates the importance of flexi...

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we dive deep into the fascinating research behind how travel can help you live a longer, healthier life. We dive deep into the research from Ms. Fangli Hu, a researcher from Edith Cowan University (ECU), sharing groundbreaking findings on the benefits of travel and how it impacts longevity and overall well-being.

From reducing stress and promoting mental wellness to enhancing social connections and broadening perspectives, Ms. Hu's research sheds light on why taking time to explore the world isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for a long, fulfilling life. ...

Every January brings a natural energy for reflection and dreaming big. It’s a time proven to be perfect for setting intentions and planning how we want our lives to unfold. In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I’m joined by Maria Maldonado Smith, a leading expert in goal setting and vision boards. Together, we explore the exciting journey of turning dreams, especially around travel, into reality

Maria explains that a vision board is a visual representation of your goals, acting as a powerful tool to keep your aspirations in focus. In a world inun...

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we dive into the top travel trends for 2025, highlight the destinations you might want to skip and give alternatives to overcrowded hot spots. 

Whether you're planning your next adventure or just dreaming about it, understanding what's happening in the travel world can make or break your experience.

Join us as we explore:

In this special year-end episode of Transform With Travel, we’re recapping the most powerful moments from our top-listened-to episodes of 2024. 

From insightful conversations on sober travel and the future of travel, to health hacks for staying well on the road and stories of travelers embracing new paths, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

Tune in as we revisit key lessons from some of our favorite guests who are shaping the future of travel and wellness. 

We’ll dive into:

Are you overwhelmed with all of the travel advice out there when it comes to travel? Are you stuck in analysis paralysis because you just don't want to get it wrong? 

In this episode of Transform With Travel, we're diving deep into some of the most popular travel advice that you should absolutely ignore in 2025. 

With the world of travel constantly evolving, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest tips and trends, while ditching the myths and bad advice that no longer apply. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a grou...

Are you yearning for an experience that could transform not just your family’s outlook on the world, but also improve your own as a parent? 

Are you curious about how different cultures parent their children? 

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the notion of slow travel can create the perfect environment for personal growth and connection. 

Join Elodie Ferchaud, co-founder of Boundless Life, and I as we navigate the world of travel for families.

Elodie’s journey started out as an expat family, where she observed the differences in parenting across cu...

Are you feeling the rush of the holiday season creeping up on you? Is end-of-year burnout starting to creep in? Are you feeling resentful with the life you chose? 

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I sit down with Claire Thomas, founder of Reaching My Best, and one of the few certified mental fitness coaches in the UK. 

We discuss the timely topic of feeling “stuck” in your life, cultivating mental resilience and unlocking your full potential through mindfulness, meditation and travel.

Travel offers unique opportunities to practice mindfulness. But how ca...

In today's fast-paced world, rest is often mistaken for simply lying on a beach with a cocktail in hand. But what if rest could mean something deeper, a true rejuvenation that touches the soul, leaving you transformed? This question finds its answer in the story of Roberto Laurens, owner of Pacha Munay Retreat Center in Peru.

Roberto Laurens’ journey is anything but conventional. Born in Colombia, he moved to Massachusetts and embarked on a life filled with spiritual exploration and entrepreneurship. Following a significant health crisis and profound spiritual experiences, Roberto found himself at a crossroads that le...

Are you considering a move abroad? Or perhaps traveling long term?  Have you ever considered what it takes to safely and legally transition from your home country to a new country? 

Whether driven by political climates, a desire for adventure, or the allure of experiencing a new culture, moving overseas is a dream many people share. However, it's not just about packing your bags and buying a plane ticket. 

This week on the Transform with Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Lauren Klein, an esteemed estate planning attorney, to discuss the implications of moving abroad. Laure...

Are you considering a move overseas or spending an extended period of time in a new country? 

You're not alone. Every few years, a surge in interest sparks from people seeking new ways of living, often driven by various life events or changes in political climates. While the idea of moving or traveling abroad can be exhilarating, it's essential to prepare properly to ensure a smooth transition. 

In this episode, we'll explore eight vital things to consider before making your move, based on my own personal experiences.

By taking these aspects into account, yo...

Is the stress of travel ruining your trips? Do you ever wonder why you took the trip in the first place if you are just going to be stressed the whole time? 

In this episode, we're celebrating a significant milestone—our 50th episode—and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share some of the insights I’ve gathered over years of exploring the world, practicing and teaching yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and now, creating resources to help travelers transform their experiences.

Join me on today’s episode where I share my 7 Proven Strategies to unlocking stress-free...

Have you ever wondered what it's like to view the world from the cockpit of an airplane? Or perhaps you're one of the many travelers who experience a tinge of anxiety every time you buckle up for a flight. In today's episode, we unravel these mysteries with insights from a seasoned pilot, Simon Brackett, and learn practical ways to manage in-flight anxiety.

Travel can open up new perspectives and enhance the quality of our lives. Traveling can be transformational, however, for many, stepping on an airplane introduces a wave of nervousness, often due to turbulence or unfamiliar...

How does pelvic health impact your travel experiences?

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I’m joined by Susan Winograd, a pelvic health expert. This insightful discussion explored the often-overlooked connection between pelvic health and travel, providing valuable advice for travelers of all kinds.

Susan emphasized the importance of a whole-body wellness approach, integrating various modalities to support clients comprehensively. This approach isn't just about addressing immediate health issues but ensuring long-term wellness. Susan's clinic offers a full spectrum of services, including nutrition and wellness programs, to help clients feel their best th...

Are you ready to transform your travel experiences and maybe even your career through the world of travel?

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I sit down with Henley Vazquez, the CEO and co-founder of Fora. This conversation illuminated the evolving landscape of the travel industry, the rise of travel advisors, and the growing interest in wellness travel. 

We got into the changes in the travel industry, particularly post-pandemic. The demand for travel advisors has surged as travelers seek guidance through the more complex travel landscape. The conversation highlighted the growing need f...

Have you ever wondered how you can combine your passion for yoga, wellness, and travel into a sustainable lifestyle? 

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I sit down with Erica Hartnick, founder of Yoga Trade, to discuss her inspiring journey and offer invaluable insights into the world of mindful traveling, seasonal work, and the vibrant global wellness community.

Erica Hartnick is described as a connection catalyst and mindful adventurer, who grew up in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California but now splits her time between Lake Tahoe and Costa R...

We’re celebrating our FIRST Pod-iversary today! I can’t believe it’s been one full year since we published our first episode of the Transform With Travel Podcast.

This episode describes my journey of starting the podcast, learning the ins and outs of what it takes to run a podcast, and all of the twists and turns I made along the way.

I also announced some BIG news - I’ve officially launched the brand Transform With Travel, which has become so much more than just the podcast. 

Transform With Travel is your one...

Have you ever dreamed of transforming your ordinary travel experiences into extraordinary adventures? If you answered yes, then you're just one step away from discovering how to travel like a rockstar. In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, I sit down with Lisa Gneo, a luxury travel concierge at Rockstar Luxury Travel, to discuss what it truly means to journey with style, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. Here are the highlights from their enlightening conversation.

Lisa's mission at Rockstar Luxury Travel is to redefine the travel experience. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, she has curated...

Have you ever wondered what it takes to leave a stable, high-stress job to pursue a passion that lights up your soul? Not only that, what about taking that passion and using it to build a career with your passion of travel? 

Justin Liebman transitioned from a high-stress finance job to a fulfilling career as a yoga teacher. Justin, like many others, found solace and passion in yoga, which ignited most when he began studying yogic philosophy. After years of dedicated practice, he took the leap in 2018 to leave his corporate finance job to pursue teaching yoga f...

Have you ever wished you could travel comfortably without sacrificing style? Welcome to the world of Anatomie, a brand revolutionizing luxury travel clothing with a blend of comfort, functionality, and timeless fashion. This week, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Kate and Shawn Boyer, the dynamic duo behind Anatomie, to discuss their journey, the ethos of their brand, and the exciting future of travel fashion. 

Kate and Shawn emphasize the importance of listening to their customers, which has guided their brand’s evolution from athletic wear to luxury travel attire, and overall product development strategy. The...

Have you ever wondered how you can travel and avoid alcohol without sacrificing fun and adventure? Jen Hirst, founder of Lighthouse Sobriety, shares her powerful story of overcoming addiction and provides actionable tips for embracing an alcohol-free life while traveling. 

In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, Jen discusses her journey to sobriety, the impact of alcohol on personal growth, and how to navigate vacations without drinking. Jen shares her journey to sobriety – from seeking help through AA and various outpatient programs, to eventually dedicated herself fully to recovery. 

Many people associate travel with...

Have you ever felt like travel has led you to a deeper commitment to protecting our planet? Do you wonder what your environmental impact is as a world traveler? 

In this episode of the "Transform with Travel" podcast, I sit down with Evan Orellana, the regional manager of the Surfrider Foundation for Florida and Puerto Rico. Evan shares his journey from a sea turtle nesting monitor to an advocate for ocean conservation, highlighting the powerful influence of travel and the crucial work of Surfrider in protecting our coastal environments.

Travel has shaped Evan's commitment to o...