FRENCHITIVITY - A Family Travel Podcast
Welcome to the Frenchitivity Podcast!We are a family of three (Michelle, Kent and our then 7 year-old daughter Everly) who stepped away from conventional lives to travel the world for a year! Here you will find:- How and why we decided to take a leap of faith- Stories from our travels- The facinating people we interviewed- Our discovery of world schooling- The lessons we learned along the wayFirst, what exactly is Frenchitivity?? It is a philosophy and now a way of life that follows three main principles...Possibility, Creativity and Tranquility. It was born from a family of three...K...
How We Packed For 10 Months Around The World
âHow did you PACK for 10 months around the world?â
It might be the question we get asked more than any other.
And the answer actually starts long before the suitcases came out.
In Episode 31 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle pull back the curtain on everything that went into preparing their homeâand their familyâfor a 10-month journey around the world.
Before deciding what to pack, we had to decide what to keep.
With renters moving into our home, we found ourselves confronting years of...
Worldschooling: Where to Start?
What happens to your childâs education when your family decides to travel the world?
For Kent and Michelle, that was one of the biggest questions they faced before beginning their 10-month journey with their daughter, Everly.
In Episode 30 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, we take a closer look at worldschoolingâwhat it means, how we approached it, and why education became one of the most important parts of our familyâs adventure.
We begin by sharing a little of our story: why we chose to travel, why we chose to do it whe...
Lauren The Hula Empress
Can something as simple as a hula hoop change your life?
For Lauren, the answer is yesâand her story is about so much more than learning how to keep a hoop spinning.
On this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle sit down with Lauren for an inspiring conversation about her journey from depression to rediscovering happiness, purpose, movement, and joyâand the unexpected role a hula hoop played in bringing everything full circle. âď¸
What began as a personal outlet eventually became something Lauren wanted to share with others. She took...
Thailand Part 4: Treehouses, Elephants & Wild Khao Sok
What does an 8-year-old ask for when she's celebrating her birthday halfway around the world?
For Everly, it was pretty simple: sleep in a treehouse and hang out with elephants. đłđ
In Episode 28 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle wrap up their four-part journey through Thailand with one final adventure in spectacular Khao Sok National Park.
Their home base? A treehouse resort built among ancient trees and towering rock formationsâcomplete with some very curious (and occasionally too curious!) monkeys roaming the property. đ What started with an unexpected accommodation problem ultimately became a blessing in...
A Taste for Adventure with Megan Hall
What happens when two scientists with a love of wine, food, family, and adventure decide they don't want to experience the world from a hotel room?
On Episode 27 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle sit down with Megan Hallâa wife, mother of two, wine scientist, professor, lifelong traveler, and founder of Terroir Adventure Travel.
Megan and her husband Alex met while studying wine at Cornell University, and travel has been woven into their relationship ever since. Just six months after getting married, they packed up and moved to Tasmania fo...
Collecting Crazy Experiences with Irina - Travel Content Creator
What if the best way to measure a life wasn't by the things you own... but by the experiences you've collected?
This week on the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle sit down with travel creator Irina, a self-proclaimed "Professional Collector of Crazy Experiences," whose adventures have taken her to more than 30 countries in pursuit of unforgettable stories.
As a travel content creator and visual storyteller, Irina helps hotels, destinations, and travel brands capture the emotion behind every experience through stunning cinematic photography and video. But behind every beautiful image is an...
Koh Lanta, Thailand | Finding Community Around the World
The Thailand adventure continuesâŚ
In Part 3 of our Thailand Travel Series, Kent, Michelle, and Everly arrive in one of the most meaningful destinations of their 10-month journey around the world: Koh Lanta.
What began as another stop on the itinerary quickly became something much bigger.
It became home.
On their very first evening, Michelle encouraged the family to attend a pool party hosted by the Bliss World School Hubâa decision that would completely change their experience in Thailand. Suddenly, they weren't simply traveling anymore. They had foun...
Travel Writer Robin DeGracia talks about her New Book: Raising World Travelers While Staying Sane
Can you raise a family, balance everyday life, and still explore the world together?
This week on the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle sit down with travel writer, family travel advocate, and author Robin DeGracia to discuss her newly released book, Raising World Travelers While Staying Sane.
For more than a decade, Robin has inspired families through her blog Around the World with Kids, sharing the honest realities behind traveling as a family. Her latest book, released on July 1 (now available on Amazon.com), pulls back the curtain on...
Thailand (Part 2): Elephant Hills, Khao Sok & Ao Nang
đŹ Episode 23 | Thailand Part 2: Elephant Hills, Khao Sok & Ao Nang
The adventure continues...
In Part 2 of our Thailand Travel Series, Kent, Michelle, and Everly experience what would become one of the most unforgettable chapters of their 10-month journey around the world.
Our first stop is the incredible Elephant HillsâThailand's first luxury tented camp and ethical elephant sanctuary, nestled in the heart of Khao Sok National Park.
Over two unforgettable days, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of the Thai jungle while learning about the remarkable conservation effor...
Thailand (Part 1): The Land of Smiles | Phuket & Khao Lak
After exploring four incredible countries across Europe, it's finally time for the next chapter of our journey around the world.
Welcome to Thailandâthe Land of Smiles. đšđ
In Episode 22 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle begin a three-part series exploring one of the most transformative chapters of their family's 10-month adventure.
Stepping off the plane into the warm tropical air, everything felt different. Although many people have since asked, "How was your vacation?" this episode reminds us that what we were experiencing wasn't a vacation at allâit was a jour...
Before We Continue Around The World
Episode 21 | Before We Continue Around the World
Before we continue our journey around the world and make our next stop in Thailandâthe Land of Smilesâwe felt it was important to pause.
In Episode 21 of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent and Michelle step back from the travel itinerary to reflect on something much bigger than the destinations themselves.
Because Frenchitivity was never meant to be just about travel.
It has always been about pursuing a more intentional life, creating deeper family connection, and discovering what true fulfillment looks like. Trav...
Magical Malta
In Episode 20 of the Frenchitivity Travel Series, Kent and Michelle revisit one of the most meaningful stops on their family journey around the world: Malta during the Christmas season. đ˛đšâ¨
For years, Malta had been circled on the map as a dream destination â and in this episode, they share why it became the perfect place to spend Christmas as a family while traveling abroad with their then 7-year-old daughter, Everly.
From staying at the beautiful Hilton Malta during the holidays, to finding the perfect Christmas tree for their room, attending a special Christmas Eve Mass at a local ch...
The Christmas Spirit of Croatia
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Travel Series, Michelle and Kent reflect on the third stop of their journey around the world: Croatia during the holiday season. đđˇâ¨
Episode 19 | The Christmas Spirit of Croatia is a journey through twinkling lights, historic towns, Christmas markets, coastal beauty, and unforgettable human connection.
The adventure begins in Zagreb, where the family was completely immersed in the magic of Christmas. From festive markets that looked like alpine ski chalets, to live music echoing from a gazebo in Central Park, giant Advent displays, ice skating, roasted holiday treats, and conversa...
Grateful for Greece
Our next stop on the Frenchitivity Travel Series is unforgettable: Greece đŹđˇ
In Frenchitivity Podcast Episode 18 | Grateful for Greece, Michelle and Kent revisit a country that already held a special place in their hearts. Greece was the first real trip they took together while datingâand the only country on their 10-month journey around the world they had visited before. But this time was different. This time, they brought Everly along to experience the wonder of Greek Mythology firsthand and discover the beauty of Greece together as a family.
From walking through ancient Athens with pas...
Portugal Perspective
What happens when you slow down long enough to truly experience a place?
Welcome to a new chapter of the Frenchitivity Podcast. Starting now, weâre releasing a new episode every Sunday as we take you deeper into our 10-month journey around the worldâone country at a time.
In Episode 17: Portugal Perspective, we revisit our very first European stop: Portugal. From the charm of everyday life to the unforgettable people, places, and experiences that shaped our time there, weâre sharing what made Portugal such a meaningful beginning to our journey.
We a...
Reflection
Episode 16: Reflection
What does it really take to walk away from a full life⌠and choose something completely different?
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Michelle and Kent pull back the curtain on the decision to leave behind their busy, successful lives and travel the world as a family for 10 months. This is an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about the questions they had to face before taking the leap.
From navigating finances and planning education for their daughter, to finding community on the road and redefining what âhomeâ really means â this episode...
Navigating the World as a Family: Insights from Family of Four Adventures with Vicky and Will
Kent and Michelle of the Frenchitivity family interview Vicky and Will of Family of 4 Adventures, a Canadian-Australian couple in Ontario who met on a Contiki tour, stayed in touch, and later reunited when Vicky worked in Australia as a nurse. Now with two kids (11 and 9), they prioritize frequent travelâoften outside school holidays for costâbalancing Vickyâs flexible ER nursing schedule and Willâs accrued vacation time.
They discuss planning trips around deals, visiting family in Australia and Malta, local Ontario adventures, and how travel supports kidsâ learning, resilience, and family bonding. Upcoming plans include Italy, a Greek is...
From Chaos to Kid Friendly: How One Family Turned Travel Stress into a Solution with Jessica from Kid-Friendly Stays
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, hosts Kent and Michelle invite Jess, the founder of KidFriendlyStays.com, to share her family's extraordinary journey of traveling the world with young children. The discussion explores the highs and lows of leaving fast-paced careers to embark on a year-long global adventure.
Jess recounts how her frustration with finding suitable accommodations for family travel led to the creation of KidFriendlyStays.com, a resource designed to simplify travel planning for parents. The conversation touches on the importance of slow travel, the concept of 'memory dividends,' and...
Before We Can't: Kirsty & Jordan's Journey Up Kilimanjaro and Mera Peak with Kirsty Allen
In this episode, Kirsty Allen from 'Before We Can't,' who recently summited Mera Peak in Nepal with her husband Jordan, shares her experiences and challenges of climbing Mera Peak and Mount Kilimanjaro. She talks about the physical and mental hurdles, their preparation, and the support systems that helped them succeed.
Kirsty and Jordan's journey from beginners to avid climbers is emphasized, along with the importance of perseverance and adventure. Kirsty highlights how they balance travel with family life and the community support they have received through social media. The episode captures the essence of adventure and...
The Barefoot Biologist: Nicole Rose on Adventure, Bats, and Breaking the Mold
In this episode, Kent and Michelle chat with Nicole Rose, also known as the Barefoot Biologist, about her unique career and adventurous lifestyle. Nicole talks about leaving a traditional path to follow her passion for wildlife biology, particularly her focus on bats. She shares personal stories from her travels, discusses the role of social media in her work, and details the balance between fieldwork and personal healing. Nicole also offers insight into her upcoming travel project in Lombok, encouraging young biologists to pursue their dreams with persistence and passion.
Episode Highlights:
00:31 Introducing Nicole Rose...Beyond Boundaries: Stories of Wanderlust with Rachael Lancaster
In this episode, the French Family interviews Rachael Lancaster, who sold everything to become a full-time nomad. Rachael shares her experiences with house sitting, solo travel, and managing anxiety through naturopathic methods. Discussing the challenges and rewards of a nomadic lifestyle, Rachael emphasizes the importance of gratitude, manifestation, and following one's heart. The episode also touches on how to become a successful house sitter and the importance of nature for mental health.
Episode Highlights:
Melinda's Travelogue: Embracing New Horizons
In this episode, Kent and Michelle from the Frenchivity Podcast are joined by Melinda Magyar, who shares her inspiring journey of traveling to over 40 countries. Leaving behind fast-paced careers, they discuss the transformative impact of travel on personal growth, skills acquisition, and forging meaningful connections.
Melinda shares her experiences from early solo trips to her adventures with friends and her fiancĂŠ, highlighting the importance of exploring the world and the joy of experiencing cultures firsthand. She also talks about the evolving nature of travel, balancing work with wanderlust, and the value of sharing these experiences through her s...
Dive Into Intuition: Embracing Adventure with Liz Ward
Join the French family as they chronicle their global adventures and discuss living life to the fullest through their podcast. In this episode, special guest Liz Ward shares her transformative journey from a fast-paced career in the UK to becoming a dive master and ocean advocate. Liz discusses the importance of following your intuition, her passion for sharks and marine conservation, and her experiences with world schooling her daughters. The conversation also delves into the balance of personal growth, adventure, and the pursuit of meaningful work.
Episode Highlights:
The Art of Intentional Travel and Family Connection with Brendan and Jade
In this installment of the Frenchitivity Podcast, Kent & Michelle discuss the proactive mindset and the importance of gratitude, featuring guests Brendan and Jade, who share their insights on integrating world culture and family time into daily life while traveling. The conversation highlights the importance of a support system, the logistics of traveling with only a backpack, and fostering an abundance mindset. The episode aims to inspire listeners to overcome barriers and embrace a life of intentionality and exploration.
Episode Highlights:
Exploring National Parks: A Conversation with Safe Travels Pod Host Joey Liberatore | Frenchitivity EP007
In this engaging podcast episode, Kent and Michelle French host special guest Joey Liberatore, the creator of the Safe Travels Pod podcast. Joey shares his transformative journey from a broadcasting career to embracing a life in nature through van living and national park explorations. Joey discusses the importance of being mindful visitors in natural ecosystems, offers insights from national park rangers, and blends his love for storytelling with a deep passion for conservation. He talks about his personal growth, the pivotal moments of embracing his faith, and how he navigates and sustains his mission in advocating for public lands.<...
From Routine to Road: The Swamy Family's 3-Year Travel Journey | Frenchitivity EP006
In this episode, Kent and Michelle French are joined by Chinmai and Rashmi Swamy, a family who has been traveling for three years with their now five-year-old daughter, Jia. The Swamy family shares their transition from a conventional lifestyle to becoming digital nomads, outlining the challenges and rewards of this lifestyle. They discuss their decision to homeschool Jia, how they adapt to new environments, and the importance of finding a like-minded community on the road. The episode also delves into the practical aspects of slow travel, balancing work across different time zones, and the emotional resilience required for a...
The Way to Bliss - Worldschool Hubs and Worldschooling
In this installment of the Frenchitivity Podcast, meet Nadeem and Dionne Arshad of Bliss Worldschool Hub.
The Arshads are a family of seven - Dionne, Nadeem and their 5 children and in October of 2022 they decided to deregister the children from school, sell all of their possessions, rent out their UK home and embark on an incredible adventure around South East Asia.
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, the Arshad family shares their journey of embracing a nomadic lifestyle through world schooling. They discuss the importance of community, the challenges they faced, and the transformative...
"Time Freedom", with Heather Wick
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, hosts Kent & Michelle and guest Heather Wick discuss the transformative journey of traveling the world with family. They explore the motivations behind their decision to travel, the challenges of finding a support system, and the adjustments required to adapt to a new lifestyle. Heather shares insights on world schooling, the importance of nature, and the freedom that comes with embracing adventure. The conversation highlights the significance of family connections, overcoming fears, and the balance between planning and spontaneity in travel.
In this conversation, Heather Wick shares her family's journey of...
Redefining Success: The Meat Cellar Way!
Summary:
In this engaging conversation, Michelle and Kent French share their transformative journey of leaving traditional careers to world school their daughter and pursue their passions. Joined by Anthony and Sarah Villegas, they discuss the importance of overcoming fear, taking risks, and the entrepreneurial spirit that led to the creation of The Meat Cellar. The conversation delves into the challenges faced during the pandemic, the couple's culinary roots, and their vision for redefining success and happiness in life. In this conversation, Michelle French shares her journey of embracing the present and the importance of living life fully...
LET GO, LET'S GO: A Family's Adventure
SUMMARY:
In this episode of the Frenchitivity Podcast, hosts Kent and Michelle interview Jon and Kirsty from Let Go, Let's Go, a family that has embraced a life of travel and adventure aboard their catamaran. They discuss the motivations behind their decision to leave traditional life behind, the challenges and joys of world schooling their children, and the importance of adaptability in travel. The conversation also touches on the practicalities of living on a boat, including safety measures, packing light, and the significance of cultural exposure for their family. As they reflect on their journey, Jon and...
"NO PLAN B"
In the inaugural Frenchitivity Podcast, we wanted to introduce you to a dynamic couple that has been a tremendous inspiration to us - Sonya and Mike Kelson! Michelle and I first met Mike as he was entertaining a crowd with his musical talents at a local brunch spot in Huntington Beach. After becoming regulars thanks to the food, ambiance and of course great entertainment, we got to know Mike and soon learned of his dream - open a wine bar with his wife Sonya!
At the time, Sonya was a wine broker and sommelier who specialized in...