Designed for Adventure: Family travel, parenting, and practical life stories

Ellie Sewell
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Designed for Adventure is a practical family travel and parenting podcast about planning meaningful experiences — from Disney trips and destination races to museum day trips and everyday adventures — without losing yourself or your sanity. Honest conversations about travel, money, parenting, and life by design.

  1. 22h ago

    Fix Bayonets and Tadpoles: Navigating Gettysburg and Civil War Reenactments with Kids

    In this episode of Designed for Adventure, Jesse and Ellie trade the "Disney bubble" for a deep dive into American history. They recap two recent Civil War-themed trips: a rainy weekend exploring the vast battlefield of Gettysburg and a hot afternoon at a First Manasses reenactment in Brandy Station, Virginia. The couple discusses how to make "living history" engaging for a five-year-old and a toddler, from finding thousands of tadpoles at the Virginia monument to reenacting Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s famous charge on Little Round Top.Key Highlights: The Gettysburg Museum Experience: Why the interactive exhibits at the visitor center—like a digital game where you choose which heavy equipment to carry on a march—are a "total learning experience" that can hold a child's attention while parents explore the museum.Weathering the Storm: Tips for staying adaptable when the weather doesn't cooperate, whether it’s "pouring rain" during a 5K race or the first "hotter than Hades" day of the Virginia summer.The Reenactment Playbook: The reality of taking young children to a reenactment, including the necessity of noise-canceling headphones for loud cannon fire and the importance of "ice cream breaks" in the shade when the heat becomes too much.Living History for Kids: A heartwarming interaction with a modern-day drummer boy and how seeing "kids their own age" involved in history can inspire future adventures.Digital Cameras for Tiny Tourists: How giving kids their own durable, digital cameras can help them "hone in on details" like horses and tents, keeping them engaged without relying on traditional screen time.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Adventure Gear BoxIn this episode, we discussed a few tools that helped keep the kids engaged and comfortable while exploring the battlefields: Kid-Friendly Digital Cameras: These durable cameras (featuring unicorns and dinosaurs!) were a massive hit, allowing the kids to document their own perspective of the trip. (Dinosaur Version)Similar Amazon Version. Noise-Canceling Headphones: A must-have for the loud booms of artillery fire during reenactments to keep young children from getting overwhelmed by the noise. We may receive a small commission from Amazon links.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignedForAdventurePodFacebook: Designed for AdventurePinterest: Designed for Adventure PodcastE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comSubscribe: Follow us for more tips on making family adventures work in real life!

    28 min

  2. May 31

    The Sleep Dilemma: How to Choose the Perfect Hotel for Family Adventures

    In this episode of Designed for Adventure, we dive deep into the one area where we never compromise: sleep. Drawing from "bad experiences" —where toddlers escaped their beds and parents were forced to hide in bathrooms to nurse infants—we explain why the layout of your lodging can make or break a vacation. We share our transition from cramped standard rooms to prioritizing one-bedroom suites and Airbnbs to ensure everyone gets the rest they need to enjoy the adventure. Key Highlights: The Residence Inn Obsession: Why Jesse and Ellie look for Residence Inns first, citing the one-bedroom suites, free breakfast, and indoor pools as essential family perks.Airbnb Pros and Cons: A look at the benefits of having a kitchen and more space versus the "insane" cleaning fees and the unpredictability of property layouts.The Slumber Pod Strategy: Ellie discusses the "game-changing" benefits of using a blackout tent over a pack-and-play to create a private, dark sleeping environment that prevents kids from seeing their parents in the same room.The Knock-off Slumber Pod I prefer: https://amzn.to/3PGfSL5 (affiliate link)The Slumber Pod: https://amzn.to/4wVgwFd (affiliate link)Creative Hotel Hacks: Tips for finding "nooks and crannies" for cribs, utilizing long curtains to darken a sleeping corner, and why balconies are the ultimate "after-hours" sanctuary for parents once the kids are down.The Transfer Method: A step-by-step breakdown of their bedtime routine in a suite, including how they use the parents' bed as a temporary landing zone before transferring a sleeping toddler to the pull-out couch.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignedForAdventurePodFacebook: Designed for AdventurePinterest: Designed For AdventureE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comSubscribe: Follow us for more tips on making family adventures work in real life!

    27 min

  3. May 24

    Merida, Moana, and Rapunzel: My 2026 RunDisney Princess Half Marathon Recap

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, I am diving into a full recap of my recent trip to Walt Disney World for the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. This was my fifth time participating in this event since 2011, and I brought along my mom, my two best friends, and my two children for a fun-filled girls' weekend. I break down everything from the registration "disaster"—where two of my friends had to secure charity bibs—to the logistics of staying in a two-bedroom suite at Bay Lake Tower using DVC points.Key Highlights from the Weekend: The Expo Experience: I share my honest (and slightly frustrated) thoughts on the "insane" amount of unnecessary walking required to get bibs and why I think the quality of the participant shirts has gone downhill.Race Morning Logistics: I discuss the massive benefit of staying on the monorail loop, which made getting to the starting line at 3:30 a.m. significantly less stressful than taking a bus.Corral Strategy & Pacing: Despite having a proof of time for Corral A, I chose to start in Corral B to run with my friend. We utilized a strategy of running the first three miles without stopping to get ahead of the crowds, which allowed us to hit shorter character lines later in the race.Characters & Costumes: We counted a record 19 characters on the course this year! I talk about our group costume as the Wicked Stepsisters and Lady Tremaine.Post-Race Recovery: Why I believe walking through Epcot after a race is better for your legs than napping, and our traditional post-race breakfast with the princesses at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.The PhotoPass Investment: I highly recommend the Memory Maker/PhotoPass package, especially for military families who can get it at a discount, as it captures all your race and park memories without you having to pull out your phone.My Favorite Medal Display for my RunDisney Medals: https://amzn.to/4wLjmML (Affiliate link)Whether you are a seasoned runDisney veteran or are thinking about signing up for the first time when registration opens in June, I hope these tips on pacing, planning, and recovery help you cross that finish line with a smile. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventurePinterest: Designed for Adventure PodcastE-Mail: Designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comSubscribe: Follow us for more tips on making family adventures work in real life!(My earn a small commission from the link)

    29 min

  4. May 17

    Trip Wars: Banff National Park vs. Walt Disney World

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, we introduce a new segment called "Trip Wars." Jesse and I set out to plan two completely different vacations for the same window in August—using specific parameters for flights, lodging, food, and activities—to see who could build the best adventure for the best price. The Contenders: Team Mountains (Jesse): Jesse takes us back to our honeymoon roots with a five-night trip to Banff National Park. His plan includes a flight to Calgary, a Nissan Sentra rental, and a mix of accommodations ranging from a $124-a-night airport hotel to rustic wooden chalets and a final-night splurge in downtown Banff. His itinerary focuses on the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies, including hiking, the Banff Gondola, and visits to Lake Louise.Team Disney (Ellie): I counter with a four-night stay in the "Disney Bubble" during the "hotter than Hades" month of August. I break down three different lodging options: the Value-tier All-Star Sports ($109/night), a Cars-themed family suite at Art of Animation, and a Deluxe Savannah view at Animal Kingdom Lodge. My plan leverages direct flights from Richmond, military park-hopper discounts, and the strategy of eating quick-service meals to keep costs down.Key Highlights: The "Lap Baby" Debate: We have a hilarious (and slightly illegal) disagreement over whether our "giant" children could still pass as lap babies to save on airfare.The Skeptic's Stance: Jesse remains the ultimate Disney skeptic, questioning why anyone would pay $60 for a character breakfast when "eggs are less than $2 a dozen" and expressing his preference for the real Yellowstone over a themed Disney lodge.The Experience Factor: I argue that you can't put a price tag on the "experience factor"—watching our daughter scream "horses!" at the carousel or seeing our son’s face light up when a parade float passes by.Budget Hacks: We discuss how to use annual passes, military discounts, and the "guest of Mickey" perk (free entry for kids under three) to make a high-end vacation more accessible.Whether you’re dreaming of glacier-fed lakes or a walk down Main Street, this episode breaks down the logistics of making those dreams a reality.Let us know in the comments, which trip would you choose? Banff National Park or Walt Disney World? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventureE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comPinterest: Designed For AdventureSubscribe: Follow us to hear more "Trip Wars" and family travel strategies!

    35 min

  5. May 10

    Disney Planning 101: Renting DVC Points and booking a Resort-Part 3

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, I (Ellie) help Jesse overcome his "analysis paralysis" by diving deep into the world of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) point rentals. We explore how renting points allows families to stay in high-end Deluxe villas for a fraction of the cost—sometimes saving as much as $2,500 on a single stay at resorts like the Grand Floridian. I also break down the critical logistics of booking windows (11 months vs. 7 months), the trade-offs of paying full price upfront versus Disney’s flexible payment plans, and why location-based perks like walking to Epcot are worth the extra investment. Key Episode Highlights Don't miss Jesse's Disney skepticism this episode.Budgeting for Magic: Why we look at a "per night" limit and how we decide between staying longer in a Value resort or splurging on a shorter Deluxe stay.Party Size & "Secret Beds": A look at the "fifth sleeper" pull-down twin beds for families of five and the massive 2- and 3-bedroom villas that are larger than our first apartment.The Rental Process: How to use third-party services like David’s DVC Rentals or the DVC Rental Shop to find owners with points, and why you need to be prepared to pivot if your first choice isn't available.Price Comparisons: Real-world examples of savings, including an $800 discount at the Polynesian and why Disney's direct promotions can sometimes actually beat DVC rental prices during the summer.Split Stays: The ultimate pro-tip for families who want to experience multiple resorts; we discuss how Disney moves your luggage for you while you enjoy the parks.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventureE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comPinterest: If interested in any of the items I talk about during the shows, I try to always link them! Find us on Pinterest at Designed for AdventureSubscribe: Follow us for more tips on making family adventures work in real life! And Don't forget to leave us a review.

    28 min

  6. May 3

    Disney Planning 101: Navigating Disney's 21 On-Property Hotels

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, we break down the most significant expense of any Walt Disney World vacation after park tickets: lodging. Choosing the right hotel depends entirely on your family's budget, logistics, and what you want out of the experience. We explore the differences advantages between staying "on property" versus "off property." While my husband Jesse—a self-proclaimed Disney skeptic who would much rather be watching the NFL draft—tries to wrap his head around the logistics and costs, The Three Tiers of Disney Resorts: Value Resorts: These are famous for their over-the-top, larger-than-life theming, featuring icons like four-story Dalmatian dogs and giant Coca-Cola cups. They offer a lower price point—sometimes as low as $100 a night with deals—making them an excellent choice for families who just need a comfortable bed and a fun pool area while staying "in the bubble". Nothing wrong with a Value Resort!Moderate Resorts: A step up in amenities, these resorts offer larger rooms, more dining options (including sit-down restaurants), and pools with water slides. Themes range from the New Orleans-inspired French Quarter to the sprawling, Caribbean Beach-themed resort located on the Disney Skyliner loop.Deluxe Resorts: These premium properties offer the most subtle theming, largest rooms, and private balconies. The biggest perks of staying Deluxe include prime locations—such as being within walking distance to Magic Kingdom or Epcot—and access to Extra Magic Hours, which allow guests to stay in the parks for two additional hours after they close to the general public on select nights.We also share strategies for making luxury stays more affordable, such as renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points. Additionally, we discuss the benefits of Shades of Green for military families and using Marriott points at the Swan and Dolphin. With Disney's flexible $200 refundable deposit, you can book early and retroactively apply new discounts as they are released to ensure you get the best deal for your adventure.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventureE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comSubscribe: Follow us for the next part of our Disney planning series!

    38 min

  7. Apr 26

    Disney Planning 101: Navigating the Seasons, the Budget, and the Skepticism-Part I

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, Jesse and I (Ellie) dive into the often-overwhelming world of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. While I love the "Disney bubble" for its family-friendly design and nostalgia, Jesse joins us as a self-proclaimed skeptic who has never been and is wary of the crowds and costs. We break down the initial steps of planning, from deciding when to go based on Florida’s "four seasons"—including the busy spring break rush and the "hotter than Hades" but budget-friendly summer months—to determining the ideal length of stay for your family's needs. Key Highlights: The "Theme Park" Distinction: Why I believe Disney is in a different category than a standard amusement park because of its immersive family-centric design.Budget vs. Convenience: How to navigate the 21 different resorts on property, from $100-a-night value deals to staying closer to the parks to avoid the hassle of folding a double stroller on a bus.Seasonal Deep Dive: We explore the unique offerings of each season, such as Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival in the spring, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in the fall, and the overnight transformation into Christmas magic in November.Planning Logistics: The benefits of using a travel agent versus booking yourself using Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points, and why the $200 refundable deposit makes Disney one of the most flexible vacations to book.A Skeptic's Strategy: Jesse shares his secret to happiness—keeping expectations low—while I discuss how I am tailoring our upcoming January trip to find resorts and experiences he might actually enjoy.Whether you are a seasoned "Pro-Planner" or are trying to convince a reluctant spouse to give Mickey a chance, this episode provides a roadmap to make the process manageable and fun.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventurePinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/designedforadventurepodcast/Subscribe: Follow us to catch Part 2 of our Disney planning series when we talk about Hotels!

    26 min

  8. Apr 19

    9 Hours, No Screens: Our Easter Road Trip Survival Guide

    In this episode of Design for Adventure, Jesse and I break down our recent nine-hour road trip to Ohio for the Easter holidays. We share our honest feedback on two different travel strategies: splitting the drive into two days with a hotel stay in Charleston, West Virginia, versus making the return trip in one "fell swoop". Along the way, we discuss our "no electronics" policy and how we kept a five-year-old and a toddler entertained using everything from magnetic tiles on cookie sheets to high-stakes games of Car Bingo. We also share some "parenting fails" and the hard-won lessons we learned, such as why you should always go to the hotel pool—even when you're exhausted—to let the kids burn off pent-up energy. We dive into our tactics for finding safe, high-quality playgrounds using Google Maps to break up long stretches of driving and our experience at "The Sandbox," a massive indoor sand pit that was a huge hit for the kids. Finally, we talk about the realities of potty training on the road and why we’ll never forget the portable potty again. Adventure Gear & Toy Box: As promised, here are the items and toys we discussed that helped us survive nine hours in the car without a single screen: Magnetic Tiles: A huge hit that held their attention for over an hour; we used these on the road for building shapes. 60pcs SetMagnetic Cookie Sheets: Our pro-tip for car travel! The lip around the edge keeps the magnetic tiles from sliding off their laps. Car Bingo Boards: We played several "spirited" games of this to keep everyone looking out the windows. We prefer the ones you can slide.License Plate Game Journal: This is the specific book I use to track the states we see; it even includes a place for notes to serve as a trip journal. Its fun flipping back through old trips!Dry Erase Book: Great for younger kids who want to color. Our daughter loves this and its the one toy we forgot to mention in the episode! This isn't the exact one we have, but its not sold anymore. Toddler Busy Book: I recommend this one over two, since there are a lot of small pieces, but our Daughter loves it. I prefer this one for when you don't want any little pieces to come off. Both our kids used it and still sometimes do now that we can reinsert the middle section.Anna and Elsa Dolls: These were Easter basket surprises that kept our youngest occupied with putting on and taking off their shoes for hours.Monster Trucks: A classic favorite for our oldest, though be prepared to mediate if both kids want the same one.Sticker Books: We didn't bring them this trip but these are always a classic. We prefer this brand since the stickers are next to the page to put them on. No flipping back and forth. Cats & Insects & CarsPortable Potty: If you are in the middle of potty training, learn from our mistake and keep one of these in the trunk for those stretches of highway without a gas station.Connect with Design for Adventure: Instagram: @DesignForAdventurePodFacebook: Design for AdventureE-mail: designedforadventurepodcast@gmail.comSubscribe: Follow us on Spotify to help more families find these adventures!

    21 min
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Designed for Adventure is a practical family travel and parenting podcast about planning meaningful experiences — from Disney trips and destination races to museum day trips and everyday adventures — without losing yourself or your sanity. Honest conversations about travel, money, parenting, and life by design.

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