The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel

The RISE Travel Institute
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  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

Gathering scholars, activists and tourism professionals with expertise in intersectional social justice, DEI, sustainability, and decolonial theory for conversations surrounding the ethics of travel, we’re here to move a step beyond the “Instagram ready” world of travel and to think critically and deeply about how travel can uplift global communities, protect natural ecosystems, and be a source of growth for travelers.Here at RISE Travel Institute we are committed to empowering travelers and travel professionals through education. Our programs, research, Experiential Journeys, scholarships, and free resources are all aimed at bringing you closer to a more responsible and ethical travel experience. Learn more by visiting RISETravelInstitute.org

  1. Jul 28

    Travel With Purpose: Building Ethical Community Partnerships with Candice Young of Trek Relief

    What does it truly mean to travel with purpose? In this episode of RISE Traveler, host Amy Hager sits down with Candice Young, founder of Trek Relief, to explore how adventure travel can become a force for meaningful, community-led change. Rather than focusing on "voluntourism," Candice shares how Trek Relief partners directly with local communities to support projects they have identified as priorities—ensuring that travel empowers rather than unintentionally harms. Drawing from her experience following the devastating 2015 Nepal earthquake, Candice explains how a single fundraising effort evolved into a nonprofit that has spent the last decade combining adventure travel with ethical community development. Together, Amy and Candice discuss the importance of listening before acting, avoiding the "white savior" mindset, setting realistic expectations for volunteers, and recognizing that the greatest impact often comes from supporting local leadership—not being the hero. Whether you're planning your next adventure, organizing a volunteer trip, or simply interested in sustainable tourism, this conversation offers valuable insights into becoming a more thoughtful, responsible traveler. Trek Relief's Website: www.trekrelief.org Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  2. Jul 3

    Reimagining Tourism Through Justice with James Nadiope

    What if travel could do more than create unforgettable memories? What if it could create lasting change for the communities we visit? If you were able to attend the RISE Travel Institute Annual Conference this is a wonderful follow up to Jame’s presentation. And if you weren’t able to attend, take a listen to this interview and then head to our YouTube channel to catch his presentation, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbMeOB4AA_0. In this episode of RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel, host Amy Hager sits down with James Nadiope, Founder and CEO of the Justice Tourism Foundation in Uganda. Together, they explore the concept of justice tourism and how travelers can become active participants in creating positive social, economic, and environmental impact. James shares the inspiration behind launching the Justice Tourism Foundation after witnessing the disconnect between thriving tourism industries and the persistent poverty experienced by communities living alongside Uganda's most visited national parks. He discusses how traditional tourism models often leave local people out of the economic benefits while international operators maintain most of the influence and revenue. The conversation dives into the importance of community-centered travel, equitable partnerships, fair wages for tourism workers, and helping travelers understand where their tourism dollars actually go. James challenges listeners to rethink travel as more than recreation—encouraging intentional journeys that foster meaningful connections, support local communities, and contribute to long-term sustainability. Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  3. Jun 10

    Travel, Technology, and the Right to Belong with Maria Hernandez

    In this powerful continuation of our conversation with Maria Hernandez, we explore the future of travel through the lens of identity, technology, privacy, and belonging. Drawing from her lived experience as a transgender traveler and technologist, Maria shares thoughtful reflections on how modern systems—from passports and biometrics to surveillance and social media—shape who gets to move freely through the world and who faces barriers along the way. Together, Amy and Maria unpack questions around gender markers on identification documents, the growing role of technology in global travel, the trade-offs between security and privacy, and how privilege impacts access to seamless travel experiences. Along the way, Maria offers a deeply human perspective on connection, inclusion, and the importance of continuing to imagine a more compassionate and equitable world. This conversation challenges us to think beyond travel as tourism and consider what freedom of movement truly means in today’s increasingly data-driven society. If you missed Part 1 of Maria’s story (Season 6 Episode 7), be sure to go back and listen before diving into this episode. Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  4. May 16

    When Travel Doesn’t Feel Safe: Borders, Identity, and Mobility with Maria Hernandez

    In this powerful episode of RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel, host Amy Hager sits down with self-acceptance coach and longtime traveler Maria Hernandez for an honest conversation about borders, identity, safety, and belonging. Maria shares her perspective on political borders as human-made systems that shape how people move, travel, and experience freedom. Drawing from her own experiences as a transgender woman and person of color, she reflects on the emotional realities of crossing borders, encounters with law enforcement, and the lasting trauma caused by racial profiling and systemic scrutiny. The conversation explores what it means to seek safety in today’s world, particularly for transgender individuals navigating an increasingly politicized environment in the United States. Maria opens up about her and her wife’s decision to relocate to Spain, discussing how factors like identity protections, quality of life, immigration policy, and economic realities influenced their choice. Blending personal storytelling with deeper reflections on travel, privilege, immigration, and human connection, this episode challenges listeners to rethink the purpose of borders and what it truly means to feel at home in the world. Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  5. Jan 8

    Empowering Women Through Travel with Carolyn Ray

    In this inspiring episode of The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel, host Amy Hager sits down with Carolyn Ray, CEO of JourneyWoman, the world’s first solo travel publication for women. Together, they explore how travel can empower women, foster empathy, and become a catalyst for global understanding. Carolyn shares her journey of stepping into the legacy of founder Evelyn Hannon, transforming JourneyWoman into a thriving, values-driven community that promotes sustainable, ethical, and inclusive travel. From rebuilding a 25-year-old platform to navigating the pandemic and beyond, she opens up about leadership, vulnerability, and staying true to your mission even when it’s not the easy road. https://journeywoman.com/ Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  6. 11/21/2025

    Love, Loss, and the Hidden Stories Behind Immigration – with Michael Luongo

    In this heartfelt episode of The RISE Traveler, host Amy Hager speaks with writer and academic Michael Luongo again to explore the moving true story behind his New York Times Modern Love essay. Michael opens up about his late husband, Wing-Ho “Harry” Chow, an undocumented and closeted gay man who lived with him in New York for over two decades. When Harry was diagnosed with late-stage cancer, their decision to marry became an act of both love and necessity — allowing Michael to care for him, navigate hospital bureaucracy, and preserve his dignity in his final days. Together, Amy and Michael reflect on grief, compassion, and the human realities behind immigration and identity. Their conversation is a powerful reminder that storytelling can break down prejudice and help us see one another with empathy. Through this intimate dialogue, The RISE Traveler continues its mission to promote conscious, inclusive travel — and a more just world for all. The New York Times: Modern Love  https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/06/style/modern-love-carrying-my-new-husband-across-the-threshold.html Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  7. 10/24/2025

    Rebuilding Through Tourism with Michael Luongo

    In this powerful conversation, Amy Hager sits down with journalist and academic Michael Luongo to explore how tourism can become a tool for recovery, peace, and rebuilding after war and conflict. From Ground Zero to Gaza, Iraq, Rwanda, and Ukraine, Michael shares firsthand stories of resilience, research, and the human capacity to heal through travel. If you care about ethical travel, social justice, and the transformative power of tourism, this episode will challenge and inspire you. It’s a deep dive into how the travel industry can help rebuild—not exploit—communities emerging from conflict. https://institutetourism.com/recovering-tourism-after-war/ Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

  8. 09/26/2025

    From Brazil to Bazaar: Laëtitia Damonsing on Travel, Identity & Sustainable Fashion

    In this episode of The RISE Traveler, we sit down with Montreal-based entrepreneur Laëtitia Damonsing to explore how her global experiences shaped her identity, worldview, and business. From volunteering in Brazilian communities during the World Cup to working in international diplomacy in Paris and Australia, Laëtitia shares how travel transformed her perspective on privilege, resilience, and representation as a woman of color. Her journey led her to launch DoDo Bazaar, a circular fashion brand redefining waste and sustainability. We also dive into her reflections on immigration, diversity in study abroad, and the urgent need for human-centered policies in today’s divided world. This is a conversation about courage, creativity, and carving new paths—proof that travel can spark both personal transformation and social change. https://www.instagram.com/dodobazaar/?hl=en Website:  https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram:  instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

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About

Gathering scholars, activists and tourism professionals with expertise in intersectional social justice, DEI, sustainability, and decolonial theory for conversations surrounding the ethics of travel, we’re here to move a step beyond the “Instagram ready” world of travel and to think critically and deeply about how travel can uplift global communities, protect natural ecosystems, and be a source of growth for travelers.Here at RISE Travel Institute we are committed to empowering travelers and travel professionals through education. Our programs, research, Experiential Journeys, scholarships, and free resources are all aimed at bringing you closer to a more responsible and ethical travel experience. Learn more by visiting RISETravelInstitute.org

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