The Long Distance Lounge: More Than Travel

Tim Sweeney's TWIN THIEVES MEDIA

Travel author and global adventurer Tim Sweeney goes on virtual visits to far-flung places by interviewing guests who live and work in locations that have a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. As the title suggests, the podcast harkens back to the days when people might strike up a conversation with a passing stranger at an airport bar during a layover (as opposed to looking down at their cell phone the entire time). Among the guests: a SCUBA guide on the Great Barrier Reef, a Tour de France journalist, a snake-loving guide in the Aussie outback, an expert on the Normandy D-Day invasions. These individuals share their stories and offer advice on how to plan a visit to their neck of the woods. But it's not JUST travel. They also explain the career track they took to find their way to their current roles or a crossroads moment that urged them to chase their passion for their profession.  If you’re considering a trip, looking for inspiration for one, or just curious how people end up in the interesting jobs they do, download and subscribe to the Long Distance Lounge.     Host Tim Sweeney—the author of a “hilarious,” 5-star rated travel memoir that documents his three years living and traveling through Australia—has lived and worked on three continents, including in the French Alps. His book (Yank Down Under: A Drink and A Look Around Australia) was hailed as "info-tainment" that is  “medicine for the soul.” The Long Distance Lounge podcast  fits the same bill. That is: interesting tales from worldly people with fun stories to share.    Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media.      For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com    Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @TEsweens

Episodes

  1. 12/18/2025

    Nicole McLaughlin: Designer and Upcycling Pioneer

    Thanks to her groundbreaking work in the world of upcycling, multidisciplinary designer Nicole McLaughlin is a pioneer in the world of fashion, design, and art. Known for transforming trash or discarded items into fashionable, ready-to-wear pieces, her social media posts have become must-see content for apparel, footwear, and fashion professionals. She's also worked on design collaborations with the biggest brands in the outdoor and fashion industries. On this episode, the New Jersey native shares her journey from a creative child to a successful designer, as well as the most pivotal moments in her career, her creative process, and the importance of sustainability in fashion. Nicole also explains how she overcomes creative blocks with outdoor activity and how small work hiatuses can keep the creative ideas flowing. Finally, she tells host Tim Sweeney about her aspirations for future projects and the impact she hopes to make in the industry. 00:00 Introduction and Creative Background 02:45 Creative Process and Social Media Influence 05:42 Education and Early Career 08:39 Transition to Reebok and Early Projects 11:21 Discovering Upcycling and Personal Projects 14:34 The Shift to Freelancing and Collaborations 17:25 Sustainability in Fashion and Brand Collaborations 30:28 The Art of Upcycling and Repair 35:22 Creative Process and Vulnerability in Design 39:43 Tools of the Trade: Crafting Unique Designs 43:44 Balancing Creativity and Functionality 48:37 Overcoming Creative Blocks and Finding Inspiration 51:10 Navigating the Business Side of Creativity 53:52 Future Aspirations and Dream Collaborations Ad read for Twin Thieves Media :35 seconds Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    58 min
  2. 10/08/2025

    Behind the Lens: Filming Music Festivals and More with Tommy Roark

    Visual storyteller Tommy Roark spends his days (and some nights) capturing stunning video images as a co-founder of Experience Media Studios. He's filmed helicopter tours in Hawaii and spent long, sleepless nights filming EDM shows and massive music festivals like Coachella. Tommy stopped by the Long Distance Lounge to share a few stories of those wild DJ sets and sketchy travel shoots that almost ended in disaster. He also shares his thoughts on balancing technical camera equipment know-how with natural creativity in photography and filmmaking. Finally, we get a little career advice -- including the significance of continuous learning -- from a guy who is doing what he loves at the ripe, old age of 27.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 06:03 Navigating the Pandemic and Career Shifts 08:12 Learning the Craft: From Amateur to Professional 10:54 The Balance of Technical Skills and Creative Vision 12:18 Investing in Equipment and Understanding the Industry 14:27 Continuous Learning and the Role of Mentorship 17:56 Creative Process and Client Relationships 21:59 Building a Network in San Diego 22:27 Adventures and Challenges in Filming 24:51 Filming Music Festivals: Behind the Scenes 30:00 The Art of Capturing Live Events 32:40 Multicam Challenges and Techniques 34:58 The Highs and Lows of Touring 40:19 Family Ties and Personal Motivation 42:28 Career Advice for Aspiring Creatives Ad read for Twin Thieves Media :35 seconds Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    46 min
  3. 06/16/2025

    Australia's Wild Northern Territory with David McMahon

    Aussie outback guide David McMahon spends his life surrounded by crocodiles, snakes and any number of creatures that can kill you in Australia's Northern Territory. Is it as dangerous as it sounds? Should you be afraid to visit? Hear from a guy who lives among the wildest area of the wildest country. David started as a chef in South Australia, but today he guides guests into the remote places he loves in Arnhem Land, Kakadu National Park and more. With host Tim Sweeney, David discusses the significance of the local Indigenous culture, the diversity of languages in "The Territory", and the challenges of living alongside dangerous wildlife in his role as a lead guide for Venture North Safaris. His passion for spending life in "The Bush" and his experiences in the wild provide listeners with a vivid picture of life in this extraordinary part of the world, and the host chimes with a few of his own yarns from a visit to Darwin and the Top End of Australia.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a Unique Lifestyle 10:12 The Wildness of Northern Australia 14:09 Living with Nature's Dangers 17:05 The Abundance of Food in the Bush 20:13 The Impact of Nature on Tourists 22:39 Conclusion: A Life of Adventure and Learning 29:21 Exploring Diverse Travel Experiences 30:21 Cahills Crossing: A Crocodile Hotspot 32:52 Understanding Crocodile Behavior and Risks 35:19 The Unique Ecosystem of Northern Australia 37:46 Close Calls: David's Wild Encounters 41:22 Favorite Animals and Fascination with Snakes 45:48 Future Aspirations and Adventures 48:03 Travel Recommendations for Northern Australia :47 second ad read for Twin Thieves Media.  Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    53 min
  4. 05/12/2025

    Life Inside the Tour de France with Cycling Journalist Andrew Hood

    Longtime cycling journalist Andrew Hood talks to host Tim Sweeney about his journey from small town daily newspaper reporter in Colorado reporting on ski vacations of the royal family to becoming a prominent figure in cycling journalism for Velo. Plus, how to plan your trip to the Tour de France, what it’s like to be inside the circus of world’s great bike races, and the craziness of camping out with cycling fans on the side of a French mountain. They also discuss the current state of cycling and the evolution of the sport in America. Having forged a media career in an era that has seen disappearing print outlets and the birth of social media, Hood offers career advice on the importance of being adaptable to change in your professional life and how community journalism was an ideal training ground.  Hood has covered dozens of editions of cycling's spring classics as well as the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España, along with numerous world championships in road, track, and mountain biking. He’s also covered multiple Olympic Games and reported on bike races across six continents. His work appears in the Outside cycling network, and he has written for The New York Times, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, the Washington Post, and many more.  Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:41 - Journey into Cycling Journalism 09:05 - The Evolution of Cycling in America 14:56 - Community Journalism and Its Impact 19:01 - Breaking into the Cycling World 22:48 - The Rise of American Cycling 34:55 - Covering the Tour de France: A Journalist's Perspective 43:24 - The Challenges of Reporting in a Fast-Paced Environment 46:36 - The Fan Experience at Cycling Events 50:24 - The Publicity Caravan: A Unique Cycling Tradition 52:33 - Exploring Alternative Cycling Events 57:20 - Riding Iconic Climbs: A Cyclist's Journey 01:01:28 - The Current State of Cycling: Trends and Predictions :47 second ad read for Twin Thieves Media.  Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    1h 3m
  5. 04/29/2025

    Great Barrier Reef Scuba Dive Guide Michelle Barry

    Michelle Barry, a scuba diving instructor based in Cairns, Australia joins host Tim Sweeney to discuss the beauty and diversity you can experience on a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, the immersive sensory experience of diving, and the importance of reef conservation. Hear what it's like to have a massive bull shark swim meters beneath you from a woman who has spent a great deal of her life underwater. A Master Reef Guide with Pure Snorkeling, Michelle also shares her journey from growing up in New Hampshire in the US to learning to dive in San Diego to moving to Queensland, Australia to do what she loves in one of the most premier places on earth to do it. The conversation also touches on the health of the reef, the impact of climate change, and the role of tourism in conservation efforts. Chapters 01:10 Exploring the Great Barrier Reef 02:26 Meet Michelle Barry: Scuba Diving Expert 03:33 Journey to Becoming a Dive Instructor 06:13 Life Underwater: Diving Experience 08:57 Cairns: The Gateway to Adventure 09:42 The Job of a Dive Instructor 12:34 Understanding the Great Barrier Reef 18:10 The Immersive Experience of Diving 21:15 Health of the Great Barrier Reef 24:32 Personal Connection to the Reef 27:51 The Dynamics of Reef Predators 43:05 Shark Species of the Great Barrier Reef 50:10 Conservation Efforts and Eco-Tourism :47 second ad read for Twin Thieves Media.  Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    51 min
  6. 04/15/2025

    Iceland's West Fjords with Renaissance man Rúnar Karlsson

    Rúnar Karlsson chats with host Tim Sweeney from Ísafjörður, Iceland, where he runs Borea Adventures with his partner, Nanný Arna Guðmundsdóttir. Rúnar, Nanny and their team take worldwide visitors on wildlife photography trips, ski touring adventures, whale watching cruises, and hiking and kayaking trips in the remote West Fjords of Iceland. A true local expert who grew up in the area, Rúnar explains how to approach your own Iceland adventure and tells us why the famed arctic fox loves to pose for photos with the guests he draws from around the world. An outdoor lover, he also discusses how a digital detox in nature can reinvigorate a guest. Finally, Runar explains how a “career” in Iceland can be a winding, varied path and why skills and experience are never a bad thing as you plot your own journey. SHOW NOTES: 02:25 - Exploring Iceland's Tourism Boom 05:05 - Life in the Westfjords 10:37 - The Remote House and Its History 16:08 - Wildlife Photography and Nature Exploration 18:55 - Skiing Adventures in Iceland 21:32 - The Unique Experience of Remote Living 33:17 - Digital Detox in Nature 44:05 - Travel Tips for Iceland 49:59 - Career Paths and Life Lessons 55:29 - Exploring Iceland: A Unique Perspective 55:39 - Career Insights and Alternative Paths :47 second ad read for Twin Thieves Media.  Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    57 min
  7. Introductory Episode: Long Distance Lounge podcast

    04/03/2025

    Introductory Episode: Long Distance Lounge podcast

    Travel author and global adventurer Tim Sweeney goes on virtual visits to far-flung places by interviewing guests who live and work in locations that have a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. As the title suggests, the podcast harkens back to the days when people might strike up a conversation with a passing stranger at an airport bar during a layover (as opposed to looking down at their cell phone the entire time).  Among the guests: a SCUBA guide on the Great Barrier Reef, a Tour de France journalist, a snake-loving guide in the Aussie outback, an expert on the Normandy D-Day invasions. These individuals share their stories and offer advice on how to plan a visit to their neck of the woods. But it's not JUST travel. They also explain the career track they took to find their way to their current roles or a crossroads moment that urged them to chase their passion for their profession.  If you’re considering a trip, looking for inspiration for one, or just curious how people end up in the interesting jobs they do, download and subscribe to the Long Distance Lounge.   Host Tim Sweeney—the author of a “hilarious,” 5-star rated travel memoir that documents his three years living and traveling through Australia—has lived and worked on three continents, including in the French Alps. His book (Yank Down Under: A Drink and A Look Around Australia) was hailed as "info-tainment" that is  “medicine for the soul.” The Long Distance Lounge podcast  fits the same bill. That is: interesting tales from worldly people with fun stories to share.  Subscribe to the podcast and share with friends. Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @tesweens Logo by Kyle Johnston Designs

    6 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Travel author and global adventurer Tim Sweeney goes on virtual visits to far-flung places by interviewing guests who live and work in locations that have a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. As the title suggests, the podcast harkens back to the days when people might strike up a conversation with a passing stranger at an airport bar during a layover (as opposed to looking down at their cell phone the entire time). Among the guests: a SCUBA guide on the Great Barrier Reef, a Tour de France journalist, a snake-loving guide in the Aussie outback, an expert on the Normandy D-Day invasions. These individuals share their stories and offer advice on how to plan a visit to their neck of the woods. But it's not JUST travel. They also explain the career track they took to find their way to their current roles or a crossroads moment that urged them to chase their passion for their profession.  If you’re considering a trip, looking for inspiration for one, or just curious how people end up in the interesting jobs they do, download and subscribe to the Long Distance Lounge.     Host Tim Sweeney—the author of a “hilarious,” 5-star rated travel memoir that documents his three years living and traveling through Australia—has lived and worked on three continents, including in the French Alps. His book (Yank Down Under: A Drink and A Look Around Australia) was hailed as "info-tainment" that is  “medicine for the soul.” The Long Distance Lounge podcast  fits the same bill. That is: interesting tales from worldly people with fun stories to share.    Long Distance Lounge podcast is produced by Twin Thieves Media.      For more information, visit TwinThievesMedia.com    Follow Tim Sweeney on Instagram at @TEsweens