Timor-Leste Hidden Gems: Blue Whales, Diving, and Slow Travel in One of the World’s Least Visited Countries with Jonty Crane

How do both comedy and travel help you embrace the unexpected? Comedian Ari Shaffir is best known for his 2 Netflix specials, 2 Comedy Central specials, and for hosting Comedy Central’s weekly storytelling series, This Is Not Happening. He was also a regular panelist on @Midnight and Conan. Ari is the host of the podcast Skeptic Tank and has recently released a new podcast called You Be Trippin,’ where he interviews real folks about their messed up disasters and memorable travel experiences.    Ari shares stories of his time on tour, and we talk about his philosophy of embracing the chaos of travel. You’ll hear about the unique cultural experiences that come with being a comedian on the road, gain insights into the art of comedy, and get a different view on the importance of dark humor.  During this humorous and insightful conversation, he shares some great, no-nonsense travel advice, insights on reframing plateaus, how psychedelics can help you tap into new perspectives, and much more. What’s the most unexpected adventure you’ve had while traveling? I'd love to hear your story, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: The importance of saying "yes" to spontaneous travel and some of his most unexpected travel experiences The cultural differences Ari noticed while performing internationally How dark humor can serve as a way to reclaim difficult situations Insight into overcoming plateaus and embracing discomfort Why you should consider NOT doing your research before traveling to a new place  How simple tasks while traveling allow you to embrace different sides of yourself How psychedelics can help you gain new perspectives about yourself and others What’s inspired his podcast and why he wants to share the real stories of travel And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Visit Ari’s website Check out Shroomfest Read Vagabonding by Rolf Potts Want More? The Vagabond’s Way: Meditations on Wanderlust, Discovery, and the Art of Travel w/ Rolf Potts Understanding the Psychedelic Retreat Experience with Neil Markey My Psychedelic Retreat Experience with Beckley Retreats (Featuring Sonia Kreitzer) Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host. Women Who Travel Podcast - Pack your bags and go on a journey with the Women Who Travel podcast.

17 Sep 20241h 18min

Have you thought about hitting pause on your career to travel the world but are unsure how to make it a reality? It's not as unattainable as you may think! Cali O'Connor shares her experience of taking multiple career breaks and offers 5 practical steps to start planning your own career break today. Cali is a former chemical engineer who traded her career in the oilfield for a life-changing adventure of quitting her job to travel around the world. Now, Cali helps working professionals find clarity in their lives by taking a career break that gives them the freedom to travel, explore, and realign with their life goals.  Whether you dream of quitting your job or taking a temporary pause, this episode will give you the confidence and strategies to take that leap. You'll hear about her biggest mistakes during her first career break (and how to avoid them), insights on overcoming common fears such as financial insecurity and leaving a stable job, travel advice to save time and money, and lessons on concurring travel burnout. If you could take a career break tomorrow, where would you go, and why? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: What led to leaving her career and how she was able to get out of the "achiever" mindset The most important but obvious step in taking a career break The purpose of having goals for your time off Insight on when to start your career break and deciding how long to go for How to budget and financially plan for long-term travel Advice on talking to your boss about your decision Her experience working for a hostel and why they're not just for young travelers  3 places she'd visit again in a heartbeat And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Visit Cali's website Listen to her podcast Follow her on Instagram Want More? Learning Through Travel: Gap Year, Career Breaks, and Beyond w/Jennifer Miller from BootsnAll.com Sherry Ott from Meet, Plan, Go! on Taking a Career Break to Travel Lessons from Quitting a Job and Selling Everything to Motorcycle Around the World with Mike Barr Thanks To Our Sponsors Babbel - Learn a new language with Babbel! Visit babbel.com/zerototravel to get up to 60% off your subscription. Women Who Travel Podcast - Pack your bags and go on a journey with the Women Who Travel podcast.

10 Sep 20241h 4min

Traveling abroad had such an impact on Rick early on, that he chose to dedicate his life to helping others see the world. In 1976, he launched Rick Steves’ Europe and, over time, built a travel empire along with a community of raving fans (including me!). His best-selling guidebook series, public television show, public radio show, syndicated travel column, small group tours, free resources, and other media all align with his core mission to help people get out and travel Europe. Rick has had a huge influence on me, both personally and professionally. His recommendations helped shape some of my early trips to Europe, ultimately leading to my life of travel. Rick also showed me it was possible to craft a career around my passion for helping others travel the world. Needless to say, he’s been a dream guest for me, and it was an absolute honor to chat with him and share this conversation with you today. What was your biggest takeaway from this episode? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you will share them by sending me an audio message. We're republishing this incredible interview with Rick Steves to send him some love after his recent diagnosis.  Premium Passport: Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click Here To Try Premium Passport For Only $1 Tune in to Learn: How Rick’s trip to Norway at 14 years old transformed him forever What he learned from his first time off the road in decades during the pandemic Why Rick encouraged people to rip out pages of one of his guidebooks How the idea of “cronocentrism” can help to inform your travels Our mutual love for “stolen” sandwiches His thoughts on ethical travel in the era of climate change Rick’s advice for getting out of your comfort zone as an experienced traveler The best lesson his parents ever taught him (which also doubles as great business advice) The joy of Rick’s work and how he uses his platform for change And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Follow Rick on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter Learn more about Rick Steves Europe Download the Rick Steves Audio Europe app Want More? Travel as a Force for Good, the Role of Travel Media, and Uncrowded Destinations to Visit with AFAR Co-Founder Greg Sullivan Biking the World For Climate Change w/ Devi Lockwood Discovering The Hidden Europe with Francis Tapon Thanks to Our Sponsors Babbel - Learn a new language with Babbel! Visit babbel.com/zerototravel to get up to 60% off your subscription.

5 Sep 20241h 27min

How can you create a more balanced, location-independent life? Podcast host and author of Digital Nomads for Dummies Kristin Wilson talks about the evolution of her travel lifestyle from expat to digital nomad and the unique challenges and rewards of living a location-independent life. Our conversation covers a wide range of topics related to digital nomadism, lifestyle design, and personal growth. Over the last 20 years, Kristin Wilson has lived and worked in over 63 countries. Her journey began with an unexpected move to Costa Rica, where she lived as an expat before transitioning to a nomadic lifestyle. Kristin's passion for travel and expertise in helping others relocate and work remotely has made her a leading voice in the digital nomad community. Her podcast, Traveling with Kristin, shares how to move abroad and design your life for more flexibility, travel, and free time.  Kristin’s story provides practical advice on managing burnout, finding balance in a nomadic life no matter where you are on your journey, and embracing change. You’ll also hear about her favorite countries for various experiences, the role of music in life, and even some tips for making money on YouTube. Whether you're an aspiring traveler or an experienced nomad, you'll find valuable insights to help you as you build your travel lifestyle. What’s the most surprising lesson you've learned from your travel experiences? I'd love to hear and hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: Kristin’s transition from expat to digital nomad How she navigated the transition from extreme burnout to a balanced travel life How she’s managed a location-independent career while staying connected to family Strategies for combating travel burnout and finding your ideal travel rhythm Why community and validation play a crucial role in the lifestyle The role of labels like "slowmad" and "flexpat" in defining your travel identity Advice for starting in this lifestyle and the importance of understanding your "why" How to get unstuck when deciding what to do next  Kristin’s favorite destinations for adventure, quality of life, food, surfing, and community How to start making money on YouTube as a beginner And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Check out Kristin’s website and podcast Subscribe to Kristin on YouTube Want More? Building, Growing, and Enjoying a Successful 7-Figure Lifestyle Business with Dan Andrews from Tropical MBA How To Do A Lifestyle Redesign Nomad Lifestyle with Nomad Cruise Founder Johannes Voelkner Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host.

3 Sep 20241h 22min

Has a big epiphany ever caused you to instantly alter the trajectory of something in your life? When listener and international piano entertainer Matt Fetbrandt reached out to tell me about the epiphany that changed his life, I knew right away his story had to be shared. Over the past year (at the time of recording), Matt has traveled over 16,000 miles through 34 U.S. states and 18 national parks with no plans of stopping. In this episode, you're going to find out how, in just 7 months, Matt went from staying in a sober living home with only $12 to his name to saving $20,000 and living out his travel dreams. Matt shares about what it took for him to change a lifetime of habits and his journey to recovery from addiction. We talk about how travel can be a bridge to create connections, why he felt he needed travel to grow, and being analytical vs. spontaneous. You'll hear about his life as a piano man and stories from the road. Matt also shares some counterintuitive advice that may not make sense to most. Will it make sense to you? When was the last time you acted on a spontaneous urge to travel? I'd love to hear all about your adventure, and I hope you will share by sending me an audio message. *This month, we're sharing previous episodes highlighting travel turnarounds! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, providing valuable insight whenever you listen. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: The root & growth of Matt's passion for music What it's like to be a performer as an introvert Creating community through music & setting the right vibe as a piano man How his journey to recovery led to a passion for travel  The moment Matt's life changed forever What shifted for him to go from never being able to save to saving $20,000 Why choose a lifestyle centered around growth How Matt's road trip got started Finding the balance between spontaneity Counterintuitive advice that could majorly pay off And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Check out Matt's website Follow Matt on Instagram and connect on LinkedIn Want More? How to Travel with Less Money, Start Working on the Road, and Never Settle Down w/ Nora Dunn What It Takes To Go Location Independent Only $50 And A Dream: Biking Across The USA Solo With Zero Experience with Jasmine Reese Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host.

29 Aug 20241h 23min

Do you want to live your best travel life? Mike Savas shares his practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you make big changes and start living your most epic life today. Mike is an adventure seeker, entrepreneur, and positivity influencer who focuses on leading and inspiring others by example. After quitting his corporate job, Mike joined Bon Jovi's team and founded SUPER, a VIP experience company that elevates the fan experience. His clients have included The Rolling Stones, President Obama, Oprah, Eminem, Katy Perry, and more.  Mike Savas shares his journey from leaving corporate to living his best life, traveling to places like Nepal to help after an earthquake, and working with global artists and personalities through his business. You'll gain insight into how to make decisions and get off the fence if you're struggling, how to tune in with your instincts and allow them to guide you, why every work or life experience has value, and why you should never underestimate your ability to make an impact.  What decisions have you been struggling with? How did this episode help? I'd love to hear your answers, and I hope you'll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: The 2 methods to living your best life and the easiest way to make decisions How he used his seemingly unrelated skills to land a job with Bon Jovi What he's learned from interacting with successful artists and personalities What led to his calling towards disaster response and how to shift out of the "I can't" mindset  How he's pushing his limits through physical challenges and personal growth (and how you can, too) How his challenge to spend 12 months in 12 countries learning 12 skills came to be The lessons he's learned from the experience and how that's changed his attachment to the outcome and his identity Mike's venture into real estate and how to have a big-thinking mindset  The shift to transformational experiences in the travel industry His top 3 destinations for an ultimate adventure trip And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Check out Mike's website Subscribe to him on YouTube Follow Mike on Instagram Want More? How a Quest Can Improve Your Life (And Travels), Metaphysics, Letting Go of Beliefs That No Longer Serve With Derek Loudermilk How To Live a Long and Useful Life (The Wisdom of Ben Franklin) With Eric Weiner Transition to Travel: Radical Life Change for World Travel With Jordan & Tyler Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host. Nissan - Go find your path and enjoy the ride along the way with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition. Learn more at nissanusa.com.

27 Aug 20241h 15min

If a new opportunity comes your way, are you ready to take it? When professional photographer Leslie McKellar was forced to move out of her apartment in 2020 because of toxic mold, she took it as an opportunity to reevaluate her trajectory. After realizing her calling to travel full-time, she set out a plan to make it happen and left for Europe in January 2022. This interview is extra special because not only was it recorded in person but I also met Leslie 8 months into her travels so she has some fantastic insights to share from her experience. You will not want to miss what she has to say about how she budgeted for the trip, advice on how to pick the right destinations, valuable lessons from curveballs along the way, why traveling can help you reset, and a 60-second challenge to help you find new adventures. What are your takeaways from the 60-second challenge? I'd love to hear about them and hope you will share by sending me an audio message. *This month, we're sharing previous episodes highlighting travel turnarounds! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, providing valuable insight whenever you listen. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: Why toxic mold was the unexpected launching point for Leslie’s travel dreams The strategy Leslie used to budget and plan accommodations How Leslie has navigated visa renewals during her year abroad The unexpected challenges that have come up during her time abroad Why she considers climate and weather when seeking destinations What her experience has been being a solo female traveler  The biggest differences between slow travel and a quick trip How this journey impacted Leslie’s perspective on her career Why Leslie decided to leave her photography equipment at home Her takeaways from nearly a year of traveling and why it's a bigger risk not to seize the opportunity And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Check out Leslie’s Photography Follow Leslie on Instagram  Want More? Only $50 And A Dream: Biking Across The USA Solo With Zero Experience with Jasmine Reese Transition To Travel: Melinda’s Story Shamans, Solo Travel, and a Healing Path Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host. Nissan - Go find your path and enjoy the ride along the way with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition. Learn more at nissanusa.com.

22 Aug 20241h 10min

How can you transform your passions into a business that lets you work from anywhere? How can you take a traditionally location-dependent business on the road? Adrian "Ady" Parzentny has been a traveling musician for 20+ years and a mixing engineer/music producer since 2017. He works with world-class artists through his mobile recording business, Hit The Road Music Studio. He has been living on the road for 13 years, spending time in Albania, Georgia, Turkey, Armenia, and Greece, among other countries. Adrian shares his journey and best lessons on how he combined his passion for music with his love for travel to create a business around his lifestyle. You'll hear about the positives and negatives of passion mashin' and how he balances traveling the world, supporting local artists with free records, and paid client projects to make his lifestyle sustainable. You'll gain insights into carving your own unique path and deviating from the norm, embracing limitations and finding creative solutions, leveraging your business to connect with local cultures, and valuing your worth as a creative. What passions do you want to build a business around? I'd love to hear about them, and I hope you'll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: What he learned from years of busking on the streets How his mobile recording studio was born The mindset shifts he needed to gain confidence and charge for his work The importance of leaning into your strengths and understanding your customers to find success (and stand out from competitors) How he approaches running his business and traveling with limitations How his art allows him to connect with locals and how he's giving back in Morocco The music Adrian is most proud of producing Why creating the right space is crucial for deeper connections (in business and life) Insights on putting yourself out there, valuing your worth, and balancing that with doing things from the heart How the exposure to different music from around the world impacts his songwriting And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Visit Adrian's website Follow him on Instagram, Facebook Adrian's YouTube playlist Watch his documentaries on Morocco, Armenia, Albania Check out his courses on production Adrian's business coach for artists Want More? Following Inspiration Towards A Life Of Travel with Mark and Steffi (The World's Only Chapman Stick Duo) Being A Creative Vessel, Faking It Until You Are It, & Tour Life (Andy Frasco Interview) Life-Changing Trips, Interviewing Music Legends, Backpacking the World, and Fostering Transformative Connections with Tony Fletcher Thanks To Our Sponsors Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at airbnb.com/host. Nissan - Go find your path and enjoy the ride along the way with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition. Learn more at nissanusa.com.

20 Aug 20241h 28min