Today’s guest is Kayla Kelly, a fighter, dream-chaser, and true global citizen. From studying abroad in Spain and Italy to now living and training full-time in Mexico as a Muay Thai fighter, Kayla has designed a life fueled by exploration, resilience, and bold self-belief. In this episode, Kayla opens up about how falling in love with Muay Thai during the pandemic transformed her path. She shares what it’s like to train as a woman in a male-dominated sport, how solo travel shaped her worldview, and what it means to bet on yourself even when the odds feel stacked. With five fights under her belt and a spot in the Amazing Muay Thai Festival in Italy on the horizon, Kayla’s story reminds us of the power of discipline, intuition, and carving your own lane. In this episode, we discuss: How travel and sport intertwine to shape identity Kayla’s transition from study abroad to full-time athlete The emotional and mental strength behind stepping into the ring How to stay grounded while living boldly abroad Advice for anyone chasing an unconventional dream Connect with us:  Kayla Kelly: @kaykelly13 Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge and wanderloungepodcast.com  Loved the episode? Leave us a 5-star review and help us reach more listeners who crave connection, adventure, and community through travel. Your support makes all the difference in growing the Wander Lounge family.  

 What if making new friends didn’t feel awkward—but joyful? This week on Wander Lounge, Ariel sits down with Liv Schreiber, a creative entrepreneur redefining what it means to build authentic connection in adulthood. As the visionary behind Hot and Social and Camp Social, Liv is turning social spaces into soulful ones, crafting intentional experiences where community thrives and fun comes first. From lakeside journaling and water sports to wine nights under the stars, Camp Social is a retreat designed for women and nonbinary folks craving meaningful friendships and playful reconnection. Liv shares how she grew a simple idea into a movement, why adult friendships deserve celebration, and how loneliness can be replaced with laughter, presence, and sisterhood. In this episode, we explore: The inspiration behind Hot and Social How Camp Social creates space for real connection The power of joy, intention, and nostalgia in adult friendships Why it’s okay to seek new community (at any age)  Whether you're craving deeper connection or dreaming of starting your own community—this episode will inspire you to make friendship a fun priority.   Connect with us:  Liv Schreiber: @livschreiber and hotandsocial.com Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge and wanderloungepodcast.com   Loved the episode?Leave us a 5-star review and help us reach more listeners who crave connection, adventure, and community through travel. Your support makes all the difference in growing the Wander Lounge family.

In this episode of Wander Lounge, we're joined by Kelly Lewis — serial entrepreneur, global traveler, and the visionary behind Go! Girl Guides, Damesly, and the Women’s Travel Fest. With over a decade spent disrupting the travel industry and empowering women to see the world on their own terms, Kelly brings a powerhouse perspective on what it really takes to build a life of freedom, impact, and creativity. We dive into the story behind her best-selling book Tell Her She Can’t, how she scaled multiple 6-figure businesses from pure passion, and why her newest venture — Portland’s Wine Spa — just landed a spot on Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places list. Whether you're dreaming of your next solo trip or building something big from scratch, this episode will leave you fired up to say YES to your own wild ideas. Connect With Us: Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge and www.wanderloungepodcast.com Kelly Lewis: @gokellylewis and @winespa_pdx

In this episode of Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel sits down with Miriam Nodzo, the founder of Elevate Travel Group. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Miriam, a certified travel associate and counselor, shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to leisure travel. She delves into the significance of crafting personalized and meaningful travel experiences and offers valuable insights for solo female travelers, including essential safety tips and strategies for personal growth. Beyond travel planning, Miriam highlights the role of travel agents, the power of building strong client relationships, and practical advice for those looking to transition into this fulfilling career. Whether you’re an aspiring travel professional or a wanderlust-driven explorer, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to enhance your travel experience. CONNECT WITH US: ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge, https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/ MIRIAM Nodzo: @elevate_travel_group , https://www.elevatetravelgroup.com/

In this episode of Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel sits down with Brooke McPheeters, a multi-talented dancer, artist, and freelancer based in Las Vegas. Brooke's background is as diverse as it is impressive. She has worked with iconic teams like the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs and the NBA's Knicks City Dancers, performed on stages across 33 countries, and traveled to 55. Her love for dance, travel, and meaningful connections shines through in every aspect of her life. Brooke emphasizes the importance of being present, balancing work and relaxation, and getting to know yourself through travel. Brooke's journey is a testament to the transformative power of travel, the importance of being present, and the beauty of pursuing a multifaceted life filled with creativity and connection. CONNECT WITH US: ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge, https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/ BROOKE MCPHEETERS: @brookemcfab

In this episode of The Wander Lounge podcast, we sit down with actress, author, and world traveler Dolores Reynals, whose incredible journey began with a dramatic birth story in Mendoza, Argentina. Initially thought to be in critical condition, Dolores's life was saved by a nurse who heard her cry—an event that set the tone for her resilient and determined spirit. From leading her first school protest against unfair grading to forging a career in acting, Dolores has consistently demonstrated her courage to stand firm in her beliefs. Now a global citizen, Dolores has embraced an international lifestyle, calling cities like London, Buenos Aires, Madrid, Los Angeles, Tulum, Mexico City, and Athens home. In this heartfelt conversation, Dolores reflects on her solo travel adventures, shaped by her mother’s work as a travel agent, and shares insights from her book The Smallest Wave, which delves into themes of femininity, authenticity, and the search for home. Join us as we explore Dolores's perspectives on navigating a nomadic lifestyle, the interplay between creativity and culture, and the transformative power of curiosity and resilience in travel. This is an episode that will inspire you to embrace the world with open arms and an adventurous spirit! CONNECT WITH US: ARIEL TRAVIS: @wander_lounge , https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/ DOLORES REYNALS: @doloresreynals , Buy The Smallest Wave: https://a.co/d/dWEbNua

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel engages in a captivating conversation with Amanda Almasri, who shares her decade-long journey as an expat. Amanda recounts her experiences living in Shanghai, Chiang Mai, London, and now San Francisco, highlighting the challenges and joys of expat life. The discussion covers the transient nature of living abroad, the stress of visa renewals, and the sense of community she found in different cities. Amanda also reflects on the impact of COVID-19, cultural differences, and her personal growth through travel and education, offering inspiration and practical advice for aspiring travelers. Connect w/ us: Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge Website: https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, host Ariel converses with Ella Parlor, a marketing expert, author, podcaster, and real estate investor. Ella recounts her successful career in the alcohol industry and the health challenges that led her to reevaluate her life. She discusses her best-selling book, "High Tolerance," and the transformative role of travel in her healing process. Emphasizing resilience and self-discovery, Ella inspires women to find purpose beyond societal expectations and embrace solo travel. The episode highlights themes of empowerment, community, and the enriching experience of engaging with diverse cultures. Connect w/ us: Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge Website: https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/ Ella Parlor: Website: ellaparlor.com Instagram: @ellayourbella Podcast: https://ellayourbella.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsRUGtoFy_-irazxK3XilvA “High Tolerance” https://www.amazon.com/dp/1962656004

In this episode of the Wander Lounge, host Ariel chats with Marlisa Giacone, an international speech therapist. Marlisa shares her journey as a traveler and expat, discussing her work in speech pathology in China and Hong Kong, and her upcoming move to Germany. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the joys and challenges of travel, the importance of community, and the freedom to define your own path in life. The episode wraps up with practical travel tips and encouragement for listeners to embrace their own unique paths. Connect with us: Marlisa Giacone: @missglobetrotter11 Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/ Resources: Girl Gone International: https://girlgoneinternational.com/

In this episode of the Wander Lounge podcast, Ariel sits with Sahara Rose De Vore, the founder and CEO of the Travel Coach Network. Sahara shares her inspiring journey from a broke college student dealing with anxiety and depression to becoming a successful entrepreneur by creating the first ICF Accredited Program for Travel Coaches. She discusses her extensive travel experiences to over 84 countries, the creation of the Travel Coach Network, and the concept of wellness travel coaching. The conversation highlights the emotional and personal motivations behind travel, emphasizing its importance for personal well-being and corporate wellness. Sahara also shares practical travel tips and her philosophy of embracing spontaneity in travel. Sahara Rose De Vore is a published author, global speaker, TEDx speaker, and has been in over 200 media outlets for her travel and business expertise including Forbes, Travel Weekly, Conde Nast Traveler, TripAdvisor, CNBC, WISN-12, and CNN Travel. Sahara was named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse Sahara Rose De Vore is the Founder and CEO of The Travel Coach Network, a global community of travel coaches! * Connect with Ariel: @wander_louge * * https://www.ariel-travis.com/ * * Connect with Sahara Rose De Vore: @thetravelcoachnetwork * * Website: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.com/ * * website: https://sahararosetravels.com/ * * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahararosethetravelcoach/ * * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravelcoachnetwork/ * * Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/ * * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaRoseTheTravelCoach/ * * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theTravelCoachNetwork/ * * Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sahararosethetravelcoach * * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoachnetwork * * Podcast: https://anchor.fm/thetravelcoachnetwork * * Free Beginner's Guide to Travel Coaching: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.mykajabi.com/main-email-series-and-workbook *

In this episode of Wander Lounge, host Ariel interviews Sojourner White, a seasoned traveler, digital nomad, remote social worker and award winning travel journalist. Sojourner shares her passion for train travel, emphasizing the journey over the destination, and her dedication to countering hustle culture. Sojourner discusses the practicalities and pleasures of train travel, the impact of travel on personal growth, and offers insights into balancing a 9 to 5 job with a thriving travel influencer career. Tune in for compelling stories, travel tips, and a deeper understanding of mindful traveling. You may have seen her work in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, and more! Connect w/ us: Get Sojourner’s free guide: 25+ Train Travel Tips to prepare you for your next journey! ( https://deft-artisan-101.ck.page/c04fe90ffa ) Watch Sojournies on YouTube: Dive into Sojourner’s world, from train travel and remote work to social work and solo travel tips for Black women. YouTube Channel.( https://www.youtube.com/@Sojournies ) Follow Sojourner on Instagram @thesojournies or check out ( https://sojournies.com/ ) Follow Ariel on instagram @wander_lounge or check out ( https://www.ariel-travis.com/ )

In this episode, host Ariel Travis swaps roles and is interviewed by her cousin Dr. Katrina Overby, an activist scholar with a rich background in media and cultural studies. They discuss the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone through travel and Ariel shares invaluable insights and practical tips for women who aspire to embark on solo travel adventures, emphasizing safety, budgeting, and the importance of cultural immersion. This episode also touches on the impactful moments from Ariel and Katrina's shared travel experience to Puerto Rico. Tune in to be inspired and empowered to book your next trip! ¿Por qué no? Connect With Dr. Katrina Overby: @dr_ko_08 Connect With Ariel: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

This episode features Calen Otto host of the Unruly Travel podcast, author, and a traveller known for embarking on a unique cross-country biking adventure with minimal resources. Starting with a fascination inspired by another adventurer, Calen decided to bike across the USA with only $300, trading work for their needs along the way. Now having visited 34 states, 20 national parks, and over 30 countries on a tight budget, Calen has become a spokesperson for sustainable travel, animal rights, and living an 'unruly' lifestyle against the norms. The episode delves into their views on veganism, its intersections with other social justice issues, and how travel can both challenge and reinforce our perceptions and behaviors towards sustainability. Connect With Calen: @unruly_traveller https://wanderwoman.online/ Connect With Ariel: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/ Resource Links: The Smell of Money: https://www.smellofmoneydoc.com/

Uncover the complexities of conducting therapy across diverse cultural landscapes. This episode showcases Sandy Dorsey, a speech-language pathologist, global advocate, and the founder of Smiles for Speech. Sandy discusses her journey creating Smiles for Speech, an initiative aimed at providing speech and occupational therapy to children in underserved communities across Africa and the Caribbean. The episode delves into the importance of speech therapy, cultural responsiveness, and Sandy’s innovative approaches to overcoming language barriers and cultural stigmas associated with disabilities. Sandy also highlights her plans for future volunteer trips and how individuals can get involved with Smiles for Speech. Connect With Sandy Dorsey: @smilesforspeech https://www.smilesforspeech.org/ Connect With Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

This episode features Anjali Mehta an artist, athlete, TED Talk speaker, and a human rights lawyer turned co-founder of the nonprofit 'What is the Power of We?'. Anjali shares her life's quest for making the world a better place, which has taken her from practicing law internationally and working on asylum cases, to embarking on mountaineering expeditions across continents to combat gender-based violence. This discussion delves into the transformative power of travel, community, purpose-driven choices and emphasizes the importance of storytelling, women's rights and community support. Connect with Anjali Mehta: @theanjlife @whatisthepowerofwe Connect with Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

This episode provides insights into Dr. Shweta Hegde's remarkable journey from India to a prestigious children's hospital in the US, interweaving her experiences in travel and medicine. Through her adventures, passion for minimalistic living, and solo explorations in Kyrgyzstan, Shweta reflects on the empowerment gained from cultural diversity, nature, and life-changing travel. This conversation highlights Shweta's dedication to pursuing a medical career, showcasing a narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and embracing life's diverse opportunities. * Connect with Dr. Shweta Hegde: * @shweta_hegde_ * Connect with Ariel Travis: * @wander_lounge * https://www.ariel-travis.com/

In this episode, Vanessa Karel, the founder and CEO of travel startup Greether, discusses how she created her company to promote safe and authentic travel experiences for women around the world. While stranded in Morocco during the pandemic, she noticed a gap in the market and started Greether, a service that connects female travelers with verified local women for a more secure and personalized travel experience. Vanessa talks about Greether being recognized for gender empowerment and sustainable tourism, as well as the opportunities her platform offers to not only travelers, but also women living in tourist destinations who wish to become Greeters. Use code ARIEL10 - to get $10 USD off on all first bookings w/ Greether Vanessa Karel: @greet.her https://www.greether.com/ Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

In this episode Steph Stock, shares her journey from feeling reluctant about her Fulbright assignment in Goiânia, Brazil, which turned out to be a pivotal year in her life, to becoming a trauma-informed yoga instructor, fitness model, and content creator in LA. Steph also discusses the inception of her podcast 'Mixed With What,' addressing multiracial complexities in America, and shares insights on embracing mixed identity, navigating diverse cultures, and finding wellness through physical movement. Her travel experiences, including a formative trip to Brazil and time spent living in Australia, illustrate the profound personal growth and understanding attainable through travel. Steph Stock: @stephxstock @mixedwithwhatpodcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mixed-with-what/id1691660768 Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

In this episode of Wander Lounge, the podcast that celebrates women in travel, the guest is speech language pathologist Jessica Wolf. A trilingual Atlanta native, Jess has lived in various countries including Brazil and Argentina. She talks about her diverse living experiences, including group living in Buenos Aires. Jess also emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the occasional tough times that come with travel. This conversation emphasizes the joy of meeting new people, the rewards of being open to experiences, and the reality of ups and downs during travel. Filled with light-hearted banter, this conversation reminds us that friendship often transcends borders and time zones. Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge https://www.ariel-travis.com/

This episode features Hanna Fidler, a dance and yoga teacher, who is also pursuing a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. From her experiences beginning with her first overseas trip to Mexico at 17, she shares how travel has shaped her on a deep personal level, especially the connections forged with different cultures and people. Hanna shares her belief on how travel is not just about visiting numerous places but about immersing in regions that resonate personally. She talks about her retreats, how they provide a safety net for beginner travelers and how the focus shifts based on the retreat's destination. They are often centered around yoga, self-healing, and experiencing the local culture. Hanna Fidler: @hannayogadance @the_warrior_two Ariel Travis: @wander_lounge www.ariel-travis.com