🎉 Episode 100, can you believe it?! 🎉 And for this milestone, we’re pulling back the curtain on the magic with a very special guest—a former Walt Disney Imagineer!
In this episode, we dive into the creativity, innovation, and behind-the-scenes stories that bring Disney’s most beloved attractions to life. From concept to reality, our guest shares what it’s really like to be part of the team that dreams up the magic.
✨ Listen in as we discuss:✅ What it takes to be a Walt Disney Imagineer✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from the parks✅ The creative process of bringing attractions to life✅ Insider insights that Disney fans will love!
Connect with Brian Collins:🌐 Website: https://www.wdwithme.com/📷 Instagram: @beingcre8ve🖇️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bcollinsorlando/
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! And if you’ve ever had a Had to Be There moment at a Disney park, share it with me on socials @hadtobethere203!
✈️ Ready for an adventure of your own? Contact Kelly to start planning today!
Meet Dominique Mann, a versatile writer, storyteller, and passionate traveler! Join us as Dominique takes us deep into her transformative journey in the Amazon rainforest. Plus, hear how her personal heritage inspires her travel dreams, including a future journey to Italy, and discover the art of creative storytelling in the digital age.
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Meet Jo, an intrepid explorer of inner and outer worlds. Educator, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, martial arts student, and writer, Jo's life is a tapestry of incredible experiences. Join us as she takes us deep into the jungle of Borneo for a true Had To Be There moment with a local tribe, sharing a story that will leave you in awe of the power of human connection and adventure.
Jo's remarkable background includes everything from studying at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service to publishing poetry and creative fiction under the name Jo Patti. A mother, a Sundancer, and a certified combat analyst, Jo's life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and boundless curiosity.
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Here are a few tips for items to include in a travel and home medical kit:
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Meet Catryn, a corporate-powerhouse-turned-spiritual-Indiana-Jones. Join us as she shares her Had To Be There experience on the Isle of Skye, where a mysterious vision of a Celtic warrior goddess kicked off the adventure of a lifetime.
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Meet Jeff, COO of Altitude Water, passionate traveler, and advocate for sustainable solutions! Join us in this episode as Jeff shares his experiences exploring diverse cultures in countries like Colombia, Costa Rica, and beyond. From the warm reception in Cartagena to the natural beauty of Costa Rica, Jeff reflects on how understanding local cultures enhances the travel experience.
He also dives into his love for fishing and surfing, discusses the importance of effective charity and personal responsibility, and highlights his work with Altitude Water—a company bringing clean drinking water to communities in need. Plus, Jeff reveals his favorite destinations, from Trinidad to Maui, and emphasizes the joy of supporting local businesses while traveling.
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Meet Andy, an inspiring adventurer who transformed his life by overcoming addiction and embracing physical challenges and travel. In this episode, Andy shares his journey from the remote Shetland Islands to tackling the Tour de France course and reaching Everest Base Camp. He discusses how asking himself to change became the turning point in his sobriety and led to his passion for adventure travel.
Andy reflects on cycling through the stunning landscapes of Tibet, the importance of visiting before the region changes further, and the connections he’s made with friendly locals. From his favorite souvenir—the emotional moment of reuniting with his family after completing the Tour de France—to his favorite Tibetan dishes, Andy’s stories are a testament to the power of resilience and exploration. He also introduces his program, Sober in Seven, helping others break free from alcohol addiction.
Tune in for Andy’s incredible insights, tips on adventure travel, and a reminder of the transformative power of change.
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Meet Don, retired airline pilot, world traveler, and author of Where We Land! In this episode, Don shares his fascinating journey from a small town in Nebraska to the skies, reflecting on his love for aviation and his career highlights. From the joys and challenges of being a pilot to humorous stories—like the time a passenger's dog joined him in the cockpit—Don offers an insider's perspective on the world of flight. He also discusses the impact of 9/11 on airline security, shares his favorite destinations for food, beaches, and architecture, and explains why he treasures memories over souvenirs.
Tune in for tips on navigating air travel, a peek into aviation's lighter side, and a glimpse into the future of flight.
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Meet Cheryl Fischer, host of the OMG Teach Me podcast, mindset coach, and seasoned traveler! Join us in this episode as Cheryl takes us to Dubai, sharing her thrilling experiences during a rare desert rainstorm and the exciting adventures she had, from exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to embarking on a desert tour. Cheryl also offers insights into the evolving culture of the UAE, what it's like traveling as a woman there, and why Dubai should be on your travel bucket list.
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Meet Risa August, a seasoned traveler, adventurer, and author! In this inspiring episode, Risa shares her journey from Canada to Mexico on a bike, overcoming challenges, and embracing new experiences along the way. Plus, hear all about her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, and how she's inspiring others with her mindset and determination.
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Meet Stephen, a Master Teacher of Tai Qi Chuan, Navy veteran, and lifelong adventurer! Join us in this captivating episode as Stephen shares his experiences in the beautiful islands of Fiji and unveils his latest book, Who They Are and What They're Up To—a fascinating dive into four generations of alien encounters.
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Website: whotheyarebook.com
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Meet Indra, a lifetime spiritual seeker, healer, and teacher! Join us in this transformative episode as Indra shares his experience ringing in a new millennium at the very place where Buddha attained enlightenment.
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Meet Csongor, traveler, bioenergy healer, and motorcycle aficionado! Join us as Csongor discusses how travel has impacted his life and shares his "Had To Be There" moment in Romania!
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Meet Tara!
Join this travel expert extraordinaire as she whisks us away to the vibrant island nation of Cuba! In this episode, Tara spills the tea on Cuba's stunning scenery, welcoming locals, unhurried pace, and unique experiences. We'll even get a taste of a hilarious "Had to Be There Moment" where cultural differences lead to an unforgettable adventure!
This episode is your jam if:
Bonus! Tara also shares:
Listen now and get ready to book your Cuban escape!
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Meet Ralph, professional travel photographer and international tour organizer. Join us as Ralph takes us to the Republic of Georgia where he had quite the "Had To Be There" moment trying to cross into Armenia!
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🌍 Welcome to a new chapter of wanderlust on the "Had to Be There Podcast"! Join your guide, Kelly Acevedo, as she embarks on the third year of exploring the world, one story at a time.
In this Season 3 trailer, Kelly reflects on the incredible journey so far, and those who have been along for the ride. But hold on, because this year is different – it's an adventure upgraded!
Get ready for exciting changes, a new schedule, and a lineup of amazing guests who will take you to captivating destinations around the globe. The "Had to Be There Podcast" is not just a show; it's a community of wanderlusters, and you're invited to be a part of it. Literally! Join the conversation in the "Had to Be There Podcast Community" Facebook group, where the podcast comes to life. Connect with fellow explorers, share your travel tales, and immerse yourself in the global community.
Buckle up, because the adventure is just beginning. Subscribe, follow us on social media, and join Kelly on the "Had to Be There Podcast" – where every story is a destination and every destination has a story. From local legends to travel tips, snapshot stories to culinary quests – Season 3 is sure to be a celebration of the diverse tapestry of travel experiences.
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Meet Michelle, travel blogger, educator, and foodie. Join us as Michelle takes us to Zihuatanejo, Mexico where she had a spontaneous tour of the former home to a mobster!
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Interested in visiting Zihuatanejo or another region of Mexico? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!
Meet Kim, a lawyer living a nomadic lifestyle. Join us as Kim takes us on a trip to Guatemala where she awoke to a fascinating surprise.
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Meet R.C., author, retiree, and traveler. Join us as R.C. shares a story of an unlikely person showing up in a most unlikely place!
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Interested in India or any of the amazing places we chatted about this week? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!
Meet Alastair, author, traveler, and our new surrogate British-Canadian grandfather! Join us as Alastair shares just some of the incredible stories he's collected throughout his life. Part 2 coming soon!
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Interested in visiting Guyana, Bali, or any of the amazing places we chatted about this week? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!
Meet Bob, a real estate agent who has cheated death and found real meaning in his life! Join us as Bob lets us tag along to the town of Stalybridge to visit friends he made on a cruise.
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Interested in visiting Stalybridge yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!