Conversations for Curious Travelers

Trip Scholars | Erica Forrest
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL

Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers. Join host Erica Forrest, Trip Scholars founder, published author, and internationally certified travel education coach for inspiring stories, thoughtful conversations, and practical tips to enhance your own travel experiences. In each episode, we explore how travel helps us learn more about the world-- and ourselves. This is the show for curious travelers who want to learn more, experience deeper, and travel better.

  1. Experiencing Interconnectedness Through Travel with Krista Fabian DeCastro

    FEB 17

    Experiencing Interconnectedness Through Travel with Krista Fabian DeCastro

    In this inspiring conversation, I'm joined by Krista Fabian DeCastro, founder of Fortuna Redux Travel Experiences. Through powerful stories from Senegal, Poland, and Tanzania, we explore how travel can create meaningful connections rather than being a one-sided experience. With a background in cultural exchange and travel experiences in more than 45 countries, Krista designs thoughtful, personalized itineraries that balance adventure, connection, and sustainability while helping travelers create meaningful experiences together. Episode Highlights: The interconnectedness of history, culture, and travelWhy travel is inherently self-centered — and ways to gently shift that mindsetWhat it means to see ourselves as guests in the places we visitSupporting local communities through thoughtful travel choicesQuestions to ask about who is telling the story and where the money goesInvolving kids in travel planning to create deeper engagement and learningA meaningful experience traveling with a Maasai-owned safari company in TanzaniaSimple research tips to help you travel more thoughtfullyA powerful story from Senegal that helped shaped Krista’s travel philosophyThe unexpected emotional experience that transformed a visit to PolandNext Step Before your next trip, begin reading the news about the places you hope to visit. Understanding what is happening helps you connect more deeply and travel with greater awareness and empathy. Reflection Krista shared the Bantu concept of:  "Ubuntu" often expressed as: “I am because you are.” It emphasizes our interconnectedness and that our identity can be found in our relationships with others. How might this idea impact the way you think about both travel and life? Connect with Krista Fortuna Redux Travel Experiences Website Krista's Responsible Travel Guide Instagram @fortunareduxtravels Links Mentioned in the Episode Kipe Adventures (Maasai-owned tour company) Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map Transformational Travel Council  _____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    27 min
  2. From Backpacking the World to Sharing Its Stories: James Hammond of the Winging It Travel Podcast

    FEB 3

    From Backpacking the World to Sharing Its Stories: James Hammond of the Winging It Travel Podcast

    Travel Storytelling · Cultural Connection · Backpacking Travel is often inspired by a desire for adventure. But over time, it can become something deeper: a way to build connection, expand empathy, and better understand ourselves and others. In this episode of Conversations for Curious Travelers, I’m joined by James Hammond, creator and host of the Winging It Travel Podcast, the Roaming with Hammo YouTube channel, and a member of the Voyascape Network. Drawing from his experiences traveling through 70+ countries, James reflects on how his journey has evolved — from adventure-driven travel toward a more connection-centered approach. Together, we explore what it means to slow down, stay open, and travel without rigid expectations. James shares powerful stories from his time trekking in Nepal, moments of awe and humility, and how staying curious has helped him form meaningful connections across cultures. We also discuss storytelling, content creation, and why presence and flexibility often lead to the most memorable travel experiences. This conversation offers inspiration, perspective, and practical ideas for anyone who wants to enhance their travels. Episode Highlights Lessons learned from visiting over 70 countriesThe shift from adventure-based travel to traveling for connectionA moving story from trekking in Nepal How curiosity and flexibility open the door to deeper cultural connectionTips for traveling more thoughtfully, including walking tours and overland travelWhat storytelling has taught James about reflection and presenceNext Step Plan a weekend trip to a place a few hours from home that you have never visited before.  Reflection James shared an inspiring quote by Mark Twain: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. Connect with James Winging It Website Listen on Apple Listen on Spotify Instagram Roaming With Hammo YouTube Channel Resources Shared in the Show Voyascape Network _____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    41 min
  3. Season One Wrap-Up: Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Next

    12/02/2025

    Season One Wrap-Up: Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Next

    As this year — and our first season of Conversations for Curious Travelers — comes to a close, I’m filled with gratitude for you and everyone who’s joined me on this journey. In this reflective episode, I share highlights from our inspiring guests and solo explorations, what I’ve learned through creating this show, and why I’m taking a short break before Season Two launches in January. From awe and thoughtfulness to family connection and gratitude, this season has been full of stories that remind us how travel can teach us about the world — and ourselves. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: Reflections and favorite moments from our first seasonGuests who shared wisdom on awe, creativity, connection, and educationSolo episodes on travel, gratitude, and making the most of every journeyHow the LEARN Through Travel framework continues to shape the showA personal update and what’s ahead in Season TwoWays you can stay connected and keep learning through travel🌍 Guests Featured This Season Tracy Smyth — Cultivating Awe as TravelersAmanda Kendle — How to Travel More ThoughtfullySahara Rose De Vore — Travel Coaching Insights: Changing the Travel IndustryJessica Grace Coleman — Planning Movie-Inspired TripsSara Cole — Love Comes First: Building Connections Through TravelMissy Meskell — Backpacking with Kids: Lessons from the Pacific Crest TrailScott Rainey — How Educational Travel Changes Lives🌍 Solo Episodes Mentioned Welcome to Conversations for Curious TravelersInsider Museum Tips to Make Your Visits UnforgettableWhy Travel Matters in Uncertain TimesTravel with Gratitude: Stories, Science & Simple PracticesThoughtful Travel Gifts: Experiences and Ideas They’ll Remember Forever_____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    12 min
  4. Thoughtful Travel Gifts: Experiences & Ideas They’ll Remember Forever

    11/18/2025

    Thoughtful Travel Gifts: Experiences & Ideas They’ll Remember Forever

    Looking for the perfect gift for the traveler in your life? In this episode of Conversations for Curious Travelers, I’m sharing meaningful, thoughtful, and practical gift ideas that go far beyond souvenirs. From once-in-a-lifetime experiences to cozy at-home touches, you’ll find inspiration for every budget and every kind of traveler. I’ll also share a personal story about a powerful travel gift my husband gave me before a trip to France—a reminder of how the right gift can create memories that last a lifetime. Episode Highlights Why the most meaningful gifts aren’t things, but experiences and connectionsInspiring ideas for travel gifts—from National Park passes to cooking classesAffordable and low-cost gifts that create big impactSmart and sustainable travel gear ideas travelers will actually useNext Step Think of one traveler in your life. Reflect on what they love most about travel, or where they’re headed next. Use one of today’s ideas to choose a thoughtful gift just for them. Reflection  “Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” — Simone Weil Links & Resources Trip Scholars: The Secret to Meaningful Gifts for TravelersTrip Scholars: Travel Gear GuideTrip Scholars: The Best Books for Travelers (Multiple Articles)Trip Scholars: Cozy Hygge Travel GiftsTrip Scholars: Best Games for TravelersTrip Scholars: Language Learning Before You TravelTripScholars: Work ExchangesTrip Scholars: Everything I OfferMy free guide: The Curious Traveler’s Guide to More Meaningful Trips6 Ways to Give Better Gifts—Based on ScienceExperiential gifts and the const_____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    26 min
  5. Travel with Gratitude: Stories, Science & Simple Practices

    11/04/2025

    Travel with Gratitude: Stories, Science & Simple Practices

    Travel with Gratitude · Gratitude Travel Tips · Gratitude and Travel Stories In this special episode, I explore how gratitude transforms our travel experiences and our lives. I share personal stories from Costa Rica, practical tools , and science-backed benefits of gratitude that can help you navigate both holiday travel stress and life’s bigger challenges. Episode Highlights: How gratitude can reframe even the hardest travel moments.Simple, science-backed practices you can use before, during, and after travel.The surprising ways gratitude improves health, relationships, and resilience.Insights from Costa Rica’s culture of Pura Vida and everyday gratitude.Next Step: Try shifting one I have to into an I get to every day this week. Reflection: “The root of joy is gratefulness...It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” -- Brother David Steindl-Rast Links & Resources: Trip Scholars Post: Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude for Better Travel The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley: The Science of Gratitude Gratitude increases empathy and reduces aggression  Gratitude helps build connections Gratitude enhances health, brings happiness — and may even lengthen lives Costa Rica Happy Planet Index Costa Rica Happier Lives Institute Costa Rica Reforestation Costa Rica Renewable Energy "Gratitude can transform common days into _____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    17 min
  6. Planning Meaningful Movie Inspired Trips with Jessica Grace Coleman

    10/21/2025

    Planning Meaningful Movie Inspired Trips with Jessica Grace Coleman

    Movie Inspired Trips · Set Jetting & Movie Tourism · Cinematic Travel Experiences From set-jetting to magical movie moments, travelers are discovering how films and TV shows can enhance their journeys. In this episode I sit down with Jessica Grace Coleman — author, filmmaker, podcaster, and founder of Movify Your Life — to explore how movie-inspired travel can transform not just your trips, but your  life. Jessica shares how she turned her adventures into a “moviementry”  and practical tips for bringing cinematic magic into everyday travel. Episode Highlights What movie-inspired travel really means — from visiting film locations to designing a cinematic journey of your ownPractical tips for set-jetting and creating itineraries based on your favorite films and TV showsJessica’s story of finding confidence and transformation through solo travelHow to use an alter ego to step outside your comfort zone while travelingThe story behind Movify Your Life project and “moviementry” filmNext Step Grab a piece of paper and write down your favorite travel or life memories. Look for recurring themes — people, places, or details that always light you up.  When planning your next trip, intentionally weave more of those elements into your itinerary and your life. Reflection  Jessica shared a powerful line from Donald Miller’s A Million Miles in a Thousand Years: And once you live a good story, you get a taste for a kind of meaning in life, and you can't go back to being normal. You can't go back to meaningless scenes stitched together by the forgettable thread of wasted time. Connect with Jessica  Movify Your Life websiteMovimentaryPodcast: Movify Your Life ShowFree guide: Movie Star Alter Ego Starter Kit InstagramLinks & Resources The Alter Ego Effect by Todd HermanA Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald MillerThe Art of Making Memories by Meik WikingThe Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware_____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    38 min
  7. How to Travel More Thoughtfully: Amanda Kendle of The Thoughtful Travel Podcast

    10/06/2025

    How to Travel More Thoughtfully: Amanda Kendle of The Thoughtful Travel Podcast

    Thoughtful Travel • Sustainable Travel • Meaningful Journeys What does it really mean to travel thoughtfully—and how can it transform the way you experience the world? In this conversation, I sit down with Amanda Kendle, longtime travel writer, lecturer, and host of The Thoughtful Travel Podcast. Amanda has been exploring and teaching about responsible, mindful journeys for decades, helping travelers discover how curiosity and connection can shape more meaningful adventures. Episode Highlights: How Amanda’s early travel experiences shaped her lifelong passion for exploring thoughtfully.Why curiosity is one of the most powerful tools travelers can pack.Simple trip practices to make your journeys richer.How to balance joyful experiences with responsible, sustainable travel choices.Why mishaps and unplanned moments often become our most memorable travel stories.Next Step Choose one way to experiment by stepping outside your travel comfort zone. It might be leaving an afternoon unscheduled, starting a conversation with a local, or swapping one planned activity for spontaneous discovery. Thoughtful travel often begins in the unexpected. Reflection “You did what you knew how to do, and when you knew better, you did better.” — Maya Angelou (via Oprah) How can you apply this idea to your own travels? Consider one past trip where you’d now make different choices, and think about how those lessons can guide your next adventure. Connect with Amanda Kendle Amanda is the host and producer of The Thoughtful Travel Podcast, a lecturer in media and communication at Murdoch University, and the Vice President of the Board at RISE Travel Institute. She has been a freelance travel writer and blogger for over 20 years, focusing on how we can travel in ways that benefit both travelers and the communities we visit. Website: Not A BallerinaPodcast: The Thoughtful Travel PodcastSubstackInstagramYouTubeFacebook Links & Resources RISE Travel Insti_____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    40 min
  8. Why Travel Matters In Uncertain Times: Finding Connection, Perspective & Hope

    09/23/2025

    Why Travel Matters In Uncertain Times: Finding Connection, Perspective & Hope

    Why travel matters • Finding connection and perspective • Resilience and joy Do you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world? In this episode you’ll discover how travel can give you the tools to meet these challenges with empathy, curiosity, and resilience. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why travel in uncertain times isn’t an escape but a pathway to resilienceHow encounters while traveling reduce prejudice and build shared humanityWays to use curiosity as an antidote to fear and divisionHow travel experiences put today’s challenges into a bigger perspectiveWhat research shows about the happiness boost from planning a tripWhy travel often inspires meaningful action back at homeThis Week’s Small Step to Enhance Your Next Trip Put one simple adventure on your calendar—whether it’s a day trip, museum visit, or hike. Anticipating it will lift your spirits and remind you of the hope travel can bring, even in challenging times. Reflection “Travel brings power and love back into your life.” — Rumi Links & Resources North Cascades Institute Contact Hypothesis overview   Contact Hypothesis Meta-analysis Pew Research on Why People Changed Their Minds on Marriage Equality Curiosity Helps Learning and Memory World Health Statistics Travel Brings Happiness and Lowers Stress Maya Angelou Jane Goodall Eleanor Roosevelt Rumi Jalalud-Din Editor’s Note: The first version of this episode included an incorrec _____________________________________________________________________________________ Thanks for joining me on Conversations for Curious Travelers, a Trip Scholars podcast. I'm so glad you are here! Please support the show— follow and leave a review—it helps more thoughtful travelers like you discover these conversations. Thank you! Want to make your next trip even better? Download your free guide: The Curious Traveler’s 5-Step Guide to More Meaningful Trips Ready for personalized support? Explore my workshops, classes, and travel coaching to get expert guidance in planning meaningful, personalized journeys at TripScholars.com Book a free 20 minute call here Let’s stay connected: Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Trip Scholars newsletter for travel insights, educational resources, and podcast updates. Explore more episodes and free resources at TripScholars.com

    25 min
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out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers. Join host Erica Forrest, Trip Scholars founder, published author, and internationally certified travel education coach for inspiring stories, thoughtful conversations, and practical tips to enhance your own travel experiences. In each episode, we explore how travel helps us learn more about the world-- and ourselves. This is the show for curious travelers who want to learn more, experience deeper, and travel better.

Information

  • Creator
    Trip Scholars | Erica Forrest
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Conversations for Curious Travelers
  • Show Website
    Conversations for Curious Travelers