Voices of Inspiration

Amelia Old
  • 5.0 (7)
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Voices of Inspiration is a travel podcast that goes beyond the guidebook. Hosted by Amelia Old, each episode centers on the people who give a destination its soul—travelers with transformative stories, locals who call these places home, tourism professionals shaping how we experience them, and others whose work or lives are deeply connected to a place. Through candid conversations, Amelia uncovers the moments, challenges, and personal histories that reveal what a destination is truly like. These aren't surface-level travel tips—they're stories about identity, belonging, resilience, and discovery. The kind that help you understand not just what a place is, but why it matters to the people who know it best. At its core, this podcast is about connection: how travel brings us face-to-face with perspectives we might never encounter otherwise, and how every destination becomes richer once you've heard the voices behind it.

  1. Dinosaurs in Keqiao: The Pangu Fossil Museum

    FEB 20

    Dinosaurs in Keqiao: The Pangu Fossil Museum

    In this episode, I travel to Keqiao, an ancient water town in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, where history stretches back more than 1,700 years. But beneath the canals, stone bridges, and historic buildings lies a much deeper story—one written millions of years ago. I sit down with Fang Lei (Florence), the co-founder of the Pangu Fossil Museum, to talk about how a personal passion for fossils unexpectedly turned into a museum with more than 3,000 ancient specimens. Florence and her husband never planned to build a museum. They were interior designers from Hong Kong who simply loved collecting fossils. But when they discovered the perfect historic building in Keqiao, their private collection became something bigger—a place for education, curiosity, and wonder. We talk about how fossils change the way we see our place in history, why she curates the museum differently from traditional institutions, and how the project eventually led to Shaoxing’s first museum-themed homestay for visiting scientists and travelers. Episode Highlights [00:00] – Introducing Keqiao, an ancient water town where a story millions of years old lies beneath the ground. [02:02] – How the Pangu Fossil Museum began and why Florence and her husband chose to share their private fossil collection with the public. [06:23] – The unexpected beginning: a fossil discovered during a design project in Shanghai sparks a lifelong passion. [07:23] – Finding the perfect Jiangnan-style historic building and transforming it into a museum in Keqiao. [09:19] – Why standing in front of ancient fossils reminds us how small humans are in the timeline of Earth. [10:54] – Florence explains how she curates fossils differently—treating them as both scientific artifacts and works of natural beauty. [11:52] – Teaching students that dinosaurs once lived right beneath Zhejiang’s soil. [14:15] – Scientists begin visiting the museum, inspiring the creation of Shaoxing’s first museum-themed homestay. [16:50] – Florence shares her philosophy on following intuition and learning new skills along the way. [18:30] – Closing reflection: why preserving fossils helps us understand the deeper story of life on Earth. Links and Resources This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported my travel for this journey. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at us.ceair.com. Interested in visiting this homestay? You can find them on Trip.com  https://www.trip.com/w/YPUkzsE7aT2 Follow Amelia Instagram: @AmeliaOldOfficial Website: https://AmeliaOld.com If you enjoyed this episode of Voices of Inspiration, please take a moment to follow the podcast, leave a rating, share the episode, and write a review. Your support helps these stories reach more people around the world.

    22 min
  2. Preserving 2,000 Years of Tradition: Shaoxing Wine with Zhu Qingli

    FEB 7

    Preserving 2,000 Years of Tradition: Shaoxing Wine with Zhu Qingli

    In this episode, I take you to Shaoxing, a historic city in China’s Zhejiang Province where an ancient tradition continues to shape daily life. Known for producing Shaoxing yellow rice wine, this region has been crafting its signature brew for thousands of years using the same natural elements—local water, climate, and air—that make its flavor impossible to replicate anywhere else. But this story isn’t just about wine; it’s about culture, heritage, and the people working to keep traditions alive. I sit down with Zhu Qingli, the founder of a unique homestay dedicated entirely to Shaoxing wine culture. He shares how guests can experience the full journey—from learning the craft to brewing their own jar of wine—and why preserving this centuries-old tradition matters so deeply to him. Along the way, we explore the philosophy behind traditional craftsmanship, the meaning of cultural preservation, and what it truly takes to dedicate your life to something you love. Episode Highlights [0:00] – In Shaoxing, guests experience something far beyond a typical visit. Travelers learn the ancient process of brewing yellow rice wine and leave with a small clay jar containing the wine they helped create—often sealed with personal wishes or blessings. [1:05] – Shaoxing’s reputation for yellow rice wine comes from a rare combination of natural elements. The local water from Jianhu Lake, the climate, and even the microorganisms in the air all contribute to a flavor that cannot easily be recreated anywhere else. [3:00] – Huangjiu, often translated as “yellow rice wine,” is introduced along with its brewing process. Unlike grape wine, it’s brewed more like beer using glutinous rice, creating complex flavors that can be sweet, nutty, earthy, or savory. [6:50] – Zhu Qingli shares the story behind his homestay, a cultural space designed to help visitors—especially international travelers—understand the history, craftsmanship, and cultural importance of Shaoxing wine. [9:34] – The fascinating Kaiba stage of brewing reveals how the winemaker’s personality can influence the final taste. Patience, instinct, and attention during fermentation leave subtle marks on every batch. [11:19] – Guests at the homestay experience the entire journey of the craft: observing traditional methods, learning the history behind the process, tasting the wine, and eventually brewing their own jar. [12:43] – Zhu discusses his book Searching for the Taste of Shaoxing, which explores the city’s culinary traditions, cultural customs, and hospitality practices—including the ceremonial ten-course meal served to honored guests. [14:43] – A meaningful ritual allows visitors to take home the jar of wine they created. Many choose to write messages or blessings inside before sealing the jar, turning the experience into a personal memory. [15:45] – One memorable guest arrived from Beijing knowing very little about Shaoxing wine but left deeply inspired. The experience sparked a friendship with Zhu and eventually led the visitor to help promote Shaoxing wine culture. [18:07] – Zhu reflects on the belief that passion and dedication give meaning to difficult work. Even without large financial rewards, preserving this tradition remains a life choice he feels proud of. Links and Resources: This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported my travel for this journey. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at us.ceair.com. Interested in visiting this homestay? You can find them on Trip.com https://www.trip.com/w/k4gak3FtPT2

    23 min
  3. Inside a Thousand-Year-Old Village: Shen’ao and Eight Blessings Inn

    JAN 29

    Inside a Thousand-Year-Old Village: Shen’ao and Eight Blessings Inn

    Shen’ao Village sits just outside Hangzhou in China’s Zhejiang province, where stone paths wind between centuries-old courtyard homes and daily life unfolds much as it has for generations. Walking through the village, I noticed neighbors greeting one another, doors open along the narrow streets, and conversations drifting between homes and courtyards. It’s here that I met Joanne, who left city life behind to restore a 240-year-old courtyard house and open Eight Blessings Inn, a nine-room bed and breakfast rooted in hospitality, conversation, and community.  Our conversation explores the dream that led Joanne from Hong Kong and Shanghai to this thousand-year-old village, the bold decision to start over later in life, and the challenges she faced while restoring the inn during the pandemic. Along the way, we talk about the meaning behind the name Eight Blessings, the importance of face-to-face connection in a fast-moving world, and why returning to a simpler way of living can create the space where meaningful moments happen. Episode Highlights [00:00] – Walking through Shen’ao Village for the first time and the storybook feeling that immediately came to mind. [01:25] – The moment I realized Joanne’s deep care for others after she insisted on helping me seek treatment for an injury. [03:20] – The thousand-year history of Shen’ao Village and the ancient drainage system that still functions today. [04:24] – Joanne shares how she moved from Hong Kong to the village and started Eight Blessings Inn. [05:18] – Her first attempt at opening a bed and breakfast in Shanghai—and why it had to close after only a year. [09:39] – Renovating a historic courtyard home just before the COVID lockdown brought construction to a halt. [12:49] – Why Joanne believes face-to-face conversation has become one of life’s greatest luxuries. [17:44] – The unique cultural experiences guests can experience in the village, from crafts workshops to learning local history. [19:35] – Joanne’s philosophy on happiness and why she believes life is best lived simply. Links and Resources: Eight Blessings Inn – Bed and breakfast in Shen’ao Village near Hangzhou This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported Amelia’s travel for this journey. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at: https://us.ceair.com/en/Follow Amelia Instagram: @AmeliaOldOfficial Website: https://AmeliaOld.com If you enjoyed this episode of Voices of Inspiration, please take a moment to follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who might appreciate the story. Your support helps these conversations reach more listeners around the world.

    23 min
  4. The Gift of Time at Qianhuang Bay

    JAN 22

    The Gift of Time at Qianhuang Bay

    Anthony Bourdain once said you learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together. Sitting at a dinner table at Qianhuang Bay Homestay in Zhejiang Province, that idea couldn’t have felt more true. Even though we didn’t share the same language, the evening was filled with laughter, toasts, and small gestures that made it clear I was welcome. It was one of those rare moments where connection happened naturally—through smiles, shared food, and simply choosing to be present with one another.  In this conversation, I sit down with Zhu Xiaokui, the founder of Qianhuang Bay, to talk about why he chose to return to his hometown in Xiling Village and open his home to travelers. We talk about building something meaningful in the place you come from, the role community plays in shaping the future of a village, and why success for him isn’t measured by recognition—but by family being together, neighbors supporting one another, and the time we give to the people around us. Episode Highlights [00:00] – A dinner table in Zhejiang Province and why Anthony Bourdain’s words about sharing a meal felt especially true that night. [01:08] – Navigating a language barrier while sitting around the table—and realizing that connection can happen through smiles, gestures, and shared moments. [02:30] – A night of toasts, laughter, and hospitality that made a foreign place feel unexpectedly like home. [05:22] – The story behind Qianhuang Bay Homestay, built to preserve the surrounding landscape while welcoming travelers into village life. [07:22] – Zhu Xiaokui explains why he returned to Xiling Village after working in the city and chose to build something in the place he calls home. [10:07] – How cooperation between homestays transformed the village into a network of more than 30 family-run stays working together rather than competing. [13:14] – What travelers can experience throughout the seasons—from harvesting tea in the mountains to exploring rivers, forests, and local traditions. [16:52] – The story of Qianhuang Well and the local legend connected to Emperor Qianlong. Links & Resources This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported my travel for this journey. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at us.ceair.comFollow Amelia Instagram: @AmeliaOldOfficial Website: https://AmeliaOld.com If you enjoyed this episode of Voices of Inspiration, please take a moment to follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who might appreciate the story. Your support helps these conversations reach more listeners around the world.

    22 min
  5. A Walk for Peace and the Art of Diancha

    JAN 15

    A Walk for Peace and the Art of Diancha

    A roadside crowd in South Carolina. An ancient mountain path in Jingshan. A scarf passed hand to hand and a cup of whisked tea that turns strangers into friends. This episode traces those moments to show how small, intentional acts can travel farther than we expect. In this episode, Amelia sits down with Zhang Hongyan, a second-generation tea practitioner who returned home to preserve the art of Diancha and open a tea-focused homestay at the base of Jingshan Mountain. She shares how the Jingshan Tea Banquet, rooted in the Tang and Song dynasties, brings together Zen philosophy, etiquette, and presence. Beyond ceremony, she founded Songyun Tea Affairs, a women-led collective that has trained and employed dozens of local women, creating opportunity while keeping cultural heritage alive in the village. We also step into Jingshan Temple and the living culture that surrounds it. Amelia reflects on wearing Hanfu with care, the difference between appropriation and appreciation, and why heritage here isn’t preserved behind glass. It’s practiced every day, in temples, teahouses, and family rituals.  This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported my travel to Changxing, China. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at: https://us.ceair.com/en/ In this episode: • The origins of the Jingshan Tea Banquet • The art of Diancha and why it still matters • Building a women-led tea collective • Visiting Jingshan Temple and wearing Hanfu with respect • How one cup of tea can change a life If this conversation spoke to you, share it with someone who could use a reminder to slow down. Subscribe, leave a review, and find more episodes of Voices of Inspiration wherever you listen. Photos and moments from this journey are on social at @AmeliaOldOfficial, and you can learn more about my work at AmeliaOld.com .  Keywords Jingshan Tea Banquet, Diancha, Jingshan Temple, Hanfu, Zhang Hongyan, Songyun Tea Affairs, Buddhist monks Walk for Peace, women in tea culture, Chinese tea ceremony, Voices of Inspiration podcast

    20 min
  6. Yinxing Guli in Changxing, China | The Ginkgo Corridor

    JAN 9

    Yinxing Guli in Changxing, China | The Ginkgo Corridor

    In this episode of Voices of Inspiration, Amelia Old travels to Yinxing Guli Homestay in Changxing County, Zhejiang, China, located near the famous gingko tree corridor. Amelia spends the afternoon with the homestay owner, experiencing a traditional herbal tea bath and moxibustion therapy, and reflecting on how challenging it can be to sit still without distractions. The owner shares how she transitioned from the tea industry to running the homestay, the meaning behind the name Yinxing Guli (“ginkgo hometown”), and the everyday values that guide her work. Photos and video from this visit are available on the YouTube version of this episode. Topics Covered • Yinxing Guli Homestay in Changxing, China • Herbal tea baths and moxibustion therapy • Ginkgo corridor and seasonal travel in Zhejiang • Journey from tea to hospitality • Family values and daily life at a rural homestay • Learning to slow down while traveling This episode is sponsored by China Eastern Airlines, who supported my travel to Changxing, China. You can learn more about their routes and destinations at: https://us.ceair.com/en/ For more information about Yinxing Guli Homestay and planning your own visit, you can find their listing here: https://us.trip.com/hotels/changxing-hotel-detail-9055720/yinxing-guli-hotel/  Keywords: Yinxing Guli Homestay, Changxing China, Zhejiang travel, ginkgo corridor China, herbal tea bath, moxibustion therapy, rural homestay China, Voices of Inspiration podcast, travel wellness China

    28 min

  7. JAN 2

    Yunqishe Homestay in China | Keeping the Wumei Tradition Alive

    In this episode of Voices of Inspiration, host Amelia Old visits Yunqishe Homestay in Changxing County, Zhejiang Province, to meet Mr. Fang Xiaoping, a fifth-generation practitioner of Wumei, a smoked plum tradition that has been part of this region for more than 500 years. The episode features Mr. Fang speaking in Chinese with translation by Joanna, allowing his voice to remain part of the conversation while making his story accessible. Together they discuss how Wumei is produced, how rural homestays are growing across Zhejiang, and what it takes to run a small, twenty-room property outside major cities. Amelia also reflects on what it was like to move through daily life while relying on translation, and how that experience reshaped the way she paid attention to people and conversations around her. Topics in this episode include: • the history and process behind Wumei • rural homestays and short-stay travel from cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou • balancing tradition with modern hospitality • staffing challenges in the countryside • plans to build a working farm and complete production chain • what visitors take home beyond photos SUPPORT THE SHOW If you enjoy the episode, a rating or review on your preferred podcast platform helps more listeners find the show. More information about Voices of Inspiration, along with episode updates and newsletter sign-ups, is available at ameliaold.com and voicesofinspirationpodcast.com

    19 min

  8. 12/19/2025

    Inside a Homestay in Zhejiang’s Tea Country | Miaoxi

    This episode of Voices of Inspiration takes place in Miaoxi, a village in the Huzhou region of Zhejiang Province, China. The episode follows time spent at a family-run homestay and a conversation with the owner, Wang Ying, about daily life, hosting travelers, and her transition from working in finance to welcoming guests into her home. Through the discussion, the episode captures moments from the property, walks through tea-covered mountains near the village, and the small details that shaped the experience of staying in rural Zhejiang. Rather than focusing on major landmarks, the episode centers on place, pace, and everyday life outside of China’s largest cities. KEY TOPICS • Staying at a family-run homestay in Miaoxi, Zhejiang • Time spent walking through tea-covered mountains near the village • Daily life and seasonal rhythms in rural Zhejiang • A conversation with Wang Ying about hosting travelers • Family involvement in running the property • Navigating language barriers while traveling • Small tools that helped simplify travel logistics • Beginning the homestay-focused portion of the China series BOOKING INFORMATION Listeners interested in staying at the homestay featured in this episode can find details and booking information at the link below: Huzhou Miaoxi Slide Meisu https://www.trip.com/hotels/v2/huzhou-hotel-detail-44559210/huzhou-miaoxi-slide-meisu/ The property is located approximately 16 km from Huzhou Railway Station and is near local attractions including Elves Alley, Xisaishan Holiday Resort, and Huzhou Giraffe Manor. SUPPORT THE SHOW If you enjoy the episode, a rating or review on your preferred podcast platform helps more listeners find the show. More information about Voices of Inspiration, along with episode updates and newsletter sign-ups, is available at ameliaold.com and voicesofinspirationpodcast.com

    15 min
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About

Voices of Inspiration is a travel podcast that goes beyond the guidebook. Hosted by Amelia Old, each episode centers on the people who give a destination its soul—travelers with transformative stories, locals who call these places home, tourism professionals shaping how we experience them, and others whose work or lives are deeply connected to a place. Through candid conversations, Amelia uncovers the moments, challenges, and personal histories that reveal what a destination is truly like. These aren't surface-level travel tips—they're stories about identity, belonging, resilience, and discovery. The kind that help you understand not just what a place is, but why it matters to the people who know it best. At its core, this podcast is about connection: how travel brings us face-to-face with perspectives we might never encounter otherwise, and how every destination becomes richer once you've heard the voices behind it.

Information

  • Creator
    Amelia Old
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Voices of Inspiration
  • Show Website
    Voices of Inspiration