Goofy Getaways Podcast

Amy Blades
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Leisure

Planning a vacation should feel exciting—not overwhelming. Our podcast is created for travelers who value personalized experiences over one-size-fits-all itineraries. If you're looking for honest destination guides, vacation planning strategies, travel tips, resort reviews, cruise advice, and insider knowledge from experienced Travel Advisors, you're in the right place. At Goofy Getaways, we believe every traveler deserves a vacation that's thoughtfully planned around their priorities, travel style, and goals. Our team specializes in creating personalized travel experiences that take the stress out of planning so you can focus on making memories. If you're ready to travel smarter, discover new destinations, and learn how to make the most of every vacation, subscribe and join us. And when you're ready to start planning, visit our website to connect with one of our experienced Travel Advisors. Let Goofy Getaways Lead You to the Magic.

  1. 6h ago

    Red Flags, Green Flags & the Contract Nobody Reads (So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor, Part 2)

    You already know what a Travel Advisor's day looks like. Now comes the harder decision: which agency do you trust to build your business with, and how do you spot one that's going to cost you? This episode picks up where our "So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor" conversation left off. Amy Blades is joined by two more Goofy Getaways Travel Advisors. Jessica Hobart-Collis has been with the agency since October 2023 and is a big reason we now plan so much international travel. Lauren Levesque joined in spring 2024 and plans for families with little ones and sensory needs. None of it is rehearsed, including the part where Lauren admits she called Amy more than once ready to quit. In this episode, you'll learn: Who is not a good fit for this job, starting with anyone who thinks it comes with discounted travelWhat a good agency should explain about onboarding, training, and support before you ever signWhy an agency that won't let you talk to its other advisors is a red flag (Amy learned that one at her very first agency)How fees, commissions, and lost-commission claims should be handled, and why you need to read the contractWhat happens to your bookings and your client relationships if you ever leave an agencyWhy Amy refuses to run Goofy Getaways on a recruitment or downline modelThe two-week, self-drive Ireland trip Jess is proudest of, castle hotels includedThis one is for anyone seriously weighing a career as a Travel Advisor, whether you end up with us or somewhere else. Amy says it on the recording: there are incredible agencies out there, and the goal is to help you ask the right questions. If you're a client who's curious about the team behind your trip, you'll also get a candid look at how we support our advisors. Thinking about becoming a Travel Advisor? Learn more about joining Goofy Getaways at https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team. Looking for someone to plan your next trip? Meet our advisors at https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors. Subscribe wherever you listen so you don't miss an episode, and find the full shownotes at https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/red-flags-green-flags-amp-the-contract-nobody-reads-so-you-want-to-be-a-travel-advisor-part-2

    Red Flags, Green Flags & the Contract Nobody Reads (So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor, Part 2)

  2. Sep 29

    What Nobody Tells You About Becoming a Travel Advisor

    Every job has a best part and a hardest part. For a Travel Advisor, both of them might surprise you. This is Minisode 3 of 3, pulled from Episode 2.8 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, "So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor." Amy Blades wraps the conversation with Amanda Worsley, Noddea Skidmore, and Aaron Guest with the most candid part of the episode: what actually makes the job worth it, what actually makes it hard, and how each of them really built their business. In this episode, you'll learn: The genuinely rewarding moments that keep advisors doing this job, from milestone trips to clients who come back years laterThe realistic hard parts: high-volume communication, tight deadlines, and getting blamed for problems that aren't the advisor's faultThe single biggest misconception about becoming a Travel Advisor, straight from someone who hears it constantlyWhat advisors actually earn in year one, and why you don't get paid until your client travelsHow Amanda, Noddea, and Aaron each built their own client base from nothing, through referral programs, local community investment, and a strong personal brand Curious what it looks like to build a travel business with Goofy Getaways? Visit https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team to learn more about our team and training. Looking for an advisor of your own instead? Head to https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors and we'll connect you with the right person. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations about what it takes to build a career in this industry. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/what-nobody-tells-you-about-becoming-a-travel-advisor-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-11

    What Nobody Tells You About Becoming a Travel Advisor

  3. Sep 22

    The Booking Is Just the Beginning

    Think hitting "confirm" on a trip is the finish line? Ask any Travel Advisor, and they'll tell you that's actually where the real work starts. This is Minisode 2 of 3, pulled from Episode 2.8 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, "So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor." Amy Blades continues the conversation with Amanda Worsley, Noddea Skidmore, and Aaron Guest — this time on everything that happens after a client books. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "the booking is just the beginning," and what advisors are still doing behind the scenes for months (or years) afterThe kind of work clients never see: destination and supplier training, staying current on ever-changing policies, and learning entirely new booking systemsWhy a good advisor should have real travel experience of their own, and how advisors lean on each other's firsthand trips to fill in the gapsWhy the most trustworthy advice includes the honest parts of a destination, not just the highlight reel Curious what it looks like to build a travel business with Goofy Getaways? Visit https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team to learn more about our team and training. Looking for an advisor of your own instead? Head to https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors and we'll connect you with the right person. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations about what it takes to build a career in this industry. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/the-booking-is-just-the-beginning-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-10

    The Booking Is Just the Beginning

  4. Sep 15

    What a Travel Advisor's Day Actually Looks Like

    What does a "typical day" even look like for someone who plans vacations for a living? Spoiler: there isn't one. This is Minisode 1 of 3, pulled from Episode 2.8 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, "So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor." Amy Blades sits down with three of our own Travel Advisors — Amanda Worsley, Noddea Skidmore, and Aaron Guest — and asks them to walk through what an actual workday looks like, start to finish. In this episode, you'll learn: Why three advisors with the same job can have three completely different daily schedules — from a 5:30 a.m. promotion check to client calls that don't start until 10 p.m.What the "planning and preparation" phase of a trip really involves, beyond picking a resortWhy the initial consultation call is the part advisors take the most seriously, and why some insist on itThe moment each advisor realized loving Disney and running a Disney-focused business are two very different things Curious what it looks like to build a travel business with Goofy Getaways? Visit https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team to learn more about our team and training. Looking for an advisor of your own instead? Head to https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors and we'll connect you with the right person. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations about what it takes to build a career in this industry. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/what-a-travel-advisors-day-actually-looks-like-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-9

    What a Travel Advisor's Day Actually Looks Like

  5. Sep 8

    So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor?

    What does it actually take to become a travel advisor — and is the job anything like what it looks like from the outside? In Episode 2.8 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, we're answering one of the questions we hear more than almost any other: "How do I become a travel advisor?" And more specifically — is it as fun, and as easy, as it looks? Join Amy Blades alongside three of our own Travel Advisors — Amanda Worsley, Noddea Skidmore, and Aaron Guest — for a candid, unscripted conversation about what this job really involves once the excitement of "I get to plan Disney trips for a living" wears off. Between the three of them, they've built businesses ranging from eleven years in to just two, and their day-to-day looks nothing alike. But they agree on one thing without hesitation: loving Disney is not the same as running a travel business. In this episode, you'll learn: What a Travel Advisor's day-to-day really looks like, from the first consultation call to long after a client gets homeWhy "the booking is just the beginning" — and what advisors are still doing behind the scenes after a trip is confirmedThe work clients never see: destination training, supplier relationships, policy changes, and the fine print someone has to readThe single biggest misconception about becoming a Travel Advisor, straight from three people who hear it constantlyWhy advisors aren't paid until their clients travel, and what that really means for your first year in the businessHow Amanda, Noddea, and Aaron each built their own client base from nothing — through referral programs, local community investment, and a strong personal brandWhy friends and family not booking with you can be one of the hardest lessons in this jobThe honest questions to ask yourself before deciding if this is the right move for you right now This episode is for anyone who's ever thought, "I already plan every trip for my friends and family — maybe I should get paid for it." But it's also for our clients: if you've ever wondered what really goes on behind the quote you receive, this conversation walks through the whole process, start to finish. Curious what it looks like to build a travel business with Goofy Getaways? Visit https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team to learn more about our team, our training, and what becoming an advisor with us really looks like. Not ready to make that jump yourself, but ready to start planning your own next trip? Head to https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors and we'll connect you with the right advisor for you. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations — including what it takes to build a career, not just a vacation, around this industry. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-travel-advisor-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-8

    So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor?

  6. Sep 1

    The Truth About Pricing, Promotions, and Price Increases

    Are vacation deals really about getting the lowest possible price—and does waiting for a promotion actually save you money? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and the Goofy Getaways team take a closer look at how vacation pricing and promotions actually work, and why the idea of simply "waiting for a deal" isn't always the best strategy. Promotions exist for a reason. Destinations and travel suppliers use them to help fill unsold rooms and cabins, encourage travel during slower periods, and drive bookings when demand isn't as high. But that doesn't mean every room, cabin, or travel date will eventually receive a discount. In this episode, you'll learn: Why vacation promotions exist in the first placeHow supply, demand, and inventory can impact pricingWhy the room or cabin you want may not be available when a promotion is releasedHow booking early can give you more options and flexibilityWhy pricing can increase as demand and inventory changeHow to think about promotions without assuming a discount is guaranteedThe difference between finding the lowest price and getting the best value for the vacation you actually want The goal isn't to scare you into booking early or tell you that waiting is always a bad idea. In some situations, waiting can absolutely work. The key is understanding what you're potentially giving up while you wait—and knowing how pricing, promotions, and availability work together. Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another dream trip, this conversation will help you look at vacation pricing from a more informed perspective. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert vacation planning advice, travel tips, and destination insights designed to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/the-truth-about-pricing-promotions-and-price-increases-goofy-getaways-podcast-2-7 Want help understanding when to book your specific destination? Our Travel Advisors stay on top of pricing trends, promotions, and availability so you don't have to. Visit goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip or use the link in the description to get started.

    The Truth About Pricing, Promotions, and Price Increases

  7. Aug 25

    Early Booking vs Last-Minute Booking

    When should you book your vacation—and is waiting for a last-minute deal actually the best way to save money? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and the Goofy Getaways team break down the pros and cons of booking early versus waiting until the last minute. While waiting for a deal can sometimes pay off, last-minute booking also comes with tradeoffs that travelers don't always consider. From resort and room availability to cruise cabins, dining reservations, flight options, and overall flexibility, waiting can mean giving up access to the vacation you actually wanted. In this episode, you'll learn: The biggest advantages of booking your vacation earlyWhy more availability can mean better value—not just more choicesHow booking early can make budgeting and payments easierWhen last-minute deals can make senseWhy discounts are never guaranteedThe "discount trap" and how waiting for a deal can sometimes cost you moreWhat happens when popular Disney resorts and cruise cabins start to fill upThe most important question to ask before deciding whether to wait One of the biggest takeaways? A discount doesn't always mean the lowest price. Sometimes, waiting for a promotion means the room, cabin, or itinerary that was actually the best value is no longer available. Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another dream trip, this conversation will help you think beyond simply asking, "Will there be a deal?" and instead consider what you're willing to give up while waiting. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert vacation planning advice, travel tips, and destination insights designed to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/early-booking-vs-last-minute-booking-goofy-getaways-podcast-2-6 Ready to figure out when you should book? Our Travel Advisors can help you compare your options and build a strategy that fits your vacation goals. Visit goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip or use the link in the description to get started.

    Early Booking vs Last-Minute Booking

  8. Aug 18

    When Is The Best Time To Book Your Vacation?

    When should you actually book your vacation—and is waiting for a deal really the best strategy? In Season 2, Episode 2 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest questions travelers have when planning a vacation: "When is the best time to book?" Join Amy Blades, Arliss Hammer, and Cindy Presley as they break down why there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. From Disney vacations and cruises to last-minute getaways, the best booking window depends on where you're going, what matters most to you, and whether you prioritize price, availability, flexibility, or spontaneity. In this episode, you'll learn: The advantages and tradeoffs of booking early versus waiting until the last minuteWhy more availability can sometimes mean better value—not just more choicesHow promotions and discounts actually workWhy waiting for a deal doesn't always mean getting the lowest priceHow booking early can protect your access to the room, cabin, or experience you actually wantWhy vacation prices and availability can change over timeWhat information you should have ready before you're ready to bookHow flexibility with your dates, budget, and priorities can open up more optionsWhy you don't need to have your entire vacation figured out before talking to a Travel Advisor You'll also hear another Traveler Stories segment, featuring the Armbrecht family and their experience working with Goofy Getaways to plan a Disney vacation that was personalized, stress-free, and full of experiences they may have otherwise missed. Want to submit your own Story? Learn more here: https://www.goofygetaways.com/travelerstories Whether you're the type of traveler who likes to plan 18 months in advance or someone who would rather book a getaway six weeks from now, this episode will help you understand what you're really trading when you choose to wait—and how to make smarter booking decisions for the vacation you actually want. Ready to start planning? Visit https://goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip to connect with one of our experienced Travel Advisors. Whether you're planning a dream Disney vacation, cruise, all-inclusive getaway, or something completely last-minute, we'll help you navigate your options and create a plan that fits your goals. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations that make vacation planning feel a whole lot easier. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/when-is-the-best-time-to-book-your-vacation

    When Is The Best Time To Book Your Vacation?
See All (41)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Planning a vacation should feel exciting—not overwhelming. Our podcast is created for travelers who value personalized experiences over one-size-fits-all itineraries. If you're looking for honest destination guides, vacation planning strategies, travel tips, resort reviews, cruise advice, and insider knowledge from experienced Travel Advisors, you're in the right place. At Goofy Getaways, we believe every traveler deserves a vacation that's thoughtfully planned around their priorities, travel style, and goals. Our team specializes in creating personalized travel experiences that take the stress out of planning so you can focus on making memories. If you're ready to travel smarter, discover new destinations, and learn how to make the most of every vacation, subscribe and join us. And when you're ready to start planning, visit our website to connect with one of our experienced Travel Advisors. Let Goofy Getaways Lead You to the Magic.

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Blades
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Amy Blades
  • Show Website
    Goofy Getaways Podcast

You Might Also Like