Random and Wonderful: Conversations about Travel Anxiety, Wellness, and Mindset Shifts

Grace Simmons
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  • PLACES & TRAVEL
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Travel isn’t just about new places—it’s about personal growth, mindset shifts, and embracing the unknown. Hosted by Grace Simmons, a confidence coach and travel enthusiast, this podcast is your go-to guide for overcoming travel anxiety, building confidence, and discovering the wellness practices that make travel transformative. Each episode blends inspiring travel stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you step out of your comfort zone and travel with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time traveler feeling hesitant or an experienced explorer seeking deeper self-discovery through adventure, you’ll find encouragement, motivation, and real-world advice here. Expect engaging interviews with travelers, mindset and wellness experts, and personal stories about navigating fear, finding freedom, and embracing joy on the road. Grace’s down-to-earth approach makes travel feel accessible, empowering you to explore the world without self-doubt holding you back. New episodes every other Tuesday! Hit subscribe to join the journey, and don’t forget to share your own random and wonderful travel moments on IG @random.wonderful.

  1. From Corporate Lawyer to Adventurous Storyteller: Miguel Yga's Journey

    MAR 25

    From Corporate Lawyer to Adventurous Storyteller: Miguel Yga's Journey

    Get ready to dive into the wild world of travel with Miguel Yga, the ultimate nomadic storyteller! In our chat, Miguel takes us on a whirlwind journey through his eight years on the road, where he's ventured from mystical Mayan ceremonies to heart-pounding shark encounters – yes, you heard that right! With a knack for immersing himself in indigenous cultures, Miguel shares his adventures while reminding us that travel is as much about the stories we collect as it is about the places we visit. He’s not just any traveler; he’s a vibrant storyteller on a mission to capture the raw beauty and depth of human experiences. So, whether you’re plotting your next grand escape or just dreaming from your couch, Miguel's tales are sure to ignite your wanderlust and inspire your next adventure! Takeaways: Miguel's journey from a corporate lawyer to a nomadic storyteller showcases the power of following your passion.Traveling among indigenous cultures has deepened Miguel's understanding of human experiences and connections.A near-death encounter with sharks taught Miguel the importance of staying calm under pressure during risky adventures.Every travel story holds valuable lessons and can lead to profound personal transformations and growth.The significance of childhood dreams can guide adults toward authentic living and fulfilling journeys.Understanding the world through travel is about embracing different perspectives and being open to unexpected experiences. Miguel Yga is a wandering writer and adventure traveler who has spent the past eight years living on the road — exploring forgotten corners of the world and the people who call them home. From sitting with Mayan shamans to narrowly escaping a shark encounter, Miguel has a knack for finding himself in the kinds of stories most people only dream about. At the heart of his journey is a deep curiosity about indigenous cultures and the full spectrum of the human experience. He captures these adventures through his writing and, more recently, through his YouTube channel, where he brings his vivid storytelling to life in visual form. But ask Miguel what he really does, and he'll tell you simply: he's a storyteller. One on a mission to collect beautiful, wild, and deeply human moments — and share them with anyone willing to listen. You can follow his adventures at ramblingandroving.com and on Instagram at @ramblingandroving. Links mentioned in the episode: Website: ramblingandroving.com Instagram: instagram.com/ramblingandroving/ ...

    42 min
  2. Bookstores and Black Stories: Lori Tharp's Journey as a Storytelling Evangelist

    MAR 18

    Bookstores and Black Stories: Lori Tharp's Journey as a Storytelling Evangelist

    Lori Tharps is all about shaking up the storytelling scene and spreading the good word about BIPOC voices. In our chat today, we dive into the transformative power of travel and how it can reshape our perspectives on identity and culture. Lori shares her journey from a storytelling-loving kid with a typewriter to becoming an award-winning author and educator living in sunny Spain. We also get into the nitty-gritty of her creative writing community for BIPOC women, and how helping others tell their stories is way more fulfilling than endless diversity training. So, buckle up for some witty banter and insightful tales that’ll inspire you to pack your bags and seek out your own stories! Takeaways: Lori's journey into storytelling began with an antique typewriter at age eight, igniting her passion for writing.The move to Spain allowed Lori to reconnect with her dreams of being a global storyteller, showcasing BIPOC narratives.Understanding race and identity has shaped Lori's work, making her a powerful voice in storytelling and activism.Traveling has transformed Lori's perspective, revealing the importance of cultural immersion beyond American experiences.Researching destinations is vital; Lori emphasizes choosing places that resonate with personal interests and values.Creating a travel journal helps Lori capture memories, ensuring she reflects on her experiences long after her trips. Lori Tharps Bio: Lori L. Tharps is an award-winning author, journalist and educator. A self-described storytelling evangelist, Tharps is a recognized voice in the areas of race, identity politics and African-American culture. She is the author of three critically acclaimed nonfiction books including, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America (St. Martin’s Press) and Kinky Gazpacho: Life, Love & Spain (Atria). Lori She has also written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Glamour and Essence magazines. In 2021, Lori moved with her family to the south of Spain, where she launched Reed, Write & Create, a podcast and platform that celebrates and supports BIPoC stories and storytellers. The Reed, Write, & Create podcast was named Best Literary Podcast by the Black Podcasting Awards in 2023. Links referenced in this episode: readwriteandcreate.comloriltharps.com

    32 min
  3. Travel Tales & Life Lessons: Bex's Epic Journey from UK to Oz

    12/30/2025

    Travel Tales & Life Lessons: Bex's Epic Journey from UK to Oz

    Sabbaticals can be life-altering, and in today’s episode, we dive deep into just how transformative taking a break can be. Our guest Bex, a career transition coach, shares her own journey from the corporate grind to a refreshing eight-month sabbatical that reshaped her life. We chat about the importance of stepping away to reevaluate what truly matters, like freedom, sunshine, and surrounding ourselves with cherished people. Bex dishes out some juicy insights—like how talking to strangers can lead to unexpected adventures and connections. So if you’ve ever felt stuck in the 9-to-5 hamster wheel, tune in for some inspiration on how to break free and discover your own path! Links referenced in this episode: feelgoodgetaways.comlinkedin.com/in/rebeccathomas

    29 min
  4. Exploring Life After Heartbreak with Emmi Fortin

    10/01/2025

    Exploring Life After Heartbreak with Emmi Fortin

    Emmi Fortin joins me today to dive into the fascinating world of self-discovery through travel and the unique role of a breakup coach. We kick things off chatting about her journey to becoming a life guide, where she reveals that it’s not just about teaching people how to break up, but empowering them to find clarity and confidence during life’s transitions. Emmi shares her own transformative experiences in Spain, where she learned to embrace independence and push her boundaries - like, who knew navigating a foreign subway could be a metaphor for life, am I right? We also dish out some tips on how to travel with intention and make the most out of your adventures. Plus, don’t forget to check the show notes for a free giveaway that Emmi’s offering, because who doesn’t love a good cheat sheet for relationships? Tune in for some wisdom and a sprinkle of humor that’ll inspire your next wanderlust! Learn about more about Emmi Fortin: Emmi Fortin is a 2x International Best Selling and Award Winning author. She is the creator of her pioneering Story Book Life Intensive, a fusion of memoir-style writing and innovative coaching to help visionaries, business execs and CEOs, conscious thought leaders, and people from all walks of life break through their limitations and create the Story Book Life of their own design. Emmi is on a mission to help 20,000 individuals tap into their personal story and use it to create the relationships, team, community, life, and/or business of their dreams. As a Self-Leadership Coach, Emmi also helps women and men rebuild themselves after a breakup, divorce, or damaging relationship so they can feel confident, stress-free, and enjoy life as they move forward. Her clients express feeling a renewed sense of self, direction, and independence during and after their work with her in her Wake Up from Your Breakup coaching program. To be considered for a coaching opportunity, simply email info@emmifortin.com to schedule your free Discovery Call. Check out Emmi's work at www.emmifortin.com

    31 min
  5. Living La Vida Local: Sam's San Miguel Adventure

    09/16/2025

    Living La Vida Local: Sam's San Miguel Adventure

    Sam Brose takes us on a captivating journey from the bustling streets of Minneapolis to the colorful charm of San Miguel de Allende, sharing how food and history flavor his life in this vibrant city. You know those food tours that make your mouth water? Yeah, Sam’s got stories that’ll have you drooling and dreaming about your next getaway. He spills the beans on the challenges of uprooting his life and how a tight-knit community back home made leaving a bittersweet adventure. We dive into the cultural quirks of life in San Miguel, where fireworks aren’t just for celebrations, but part of everyday life (just be ready for some late-night surprises!). So grab your snacks and settle in, because this episode is all about embracing the unknown and finding joy in every bite of life! Takeaways: Sam's journey from Minneapolis to San Miguel de Allende is a testament to embracing change and new adventures, proving that our comfort zones can be expanded beyond familiar borders if we dare to take the leap. Living in San Miguel means immersing yourself in history where every corner store has a story that spans centuries, reminding us to appreciate the beauty of longevity and the lives once lived there. The vibrant culture of San Miguel is a whirlwind of celebrations and fireworks, creating an environment where community ties are strengthened across generations, making every day feel festive and alive. Sam highlights the importance of mastering the local language before moving abroad, as it not only enhances communication but also deepens cultural connections and enriches the overall experience of living in a new country. A significant life lesson for Sam has been redefining values post-move, learning that a simple, walkable lifestyle filled with good food and community is far more fulfilling than material possessions and a fast-paced life. Food is more than sustenance for Sam; it’s a celebration of culture and community, deeply rooted in his upbringing, showcasing how culinary traditions can foster connections and joy among diverse groups. Sam Brose's Bio: Sam Brose is a third-generation former Minneapolitan who transformed a background in pastry and nutrition-focused cooking into a life of cross-cultural storytelling. For years, he served as a chef and kitchen manager for nonprofits supporting adults and children with chronic illnesses. Today, he calls San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato home, where he works as a food tour guide with Taste of San Miguel, sharing his love of Mexican cuisine, culture, and history with travelers from around the world. Selling nearly everything and moving to Mexico with a small savings and a big leap of faith, Sam discovered new confidence in navigating cross-cultural communication, leading tours, and embracing life’s surprises. His journey reflects a passion for food, community, and the transformative power of travel. Connect with Sam Brose: IG- @sbrose987

    24 min
  6. Burnout to Breakthrough: The Journey of a Solo Traveler

    07/22/2025

    Burnout to Breakthrough: The Journey of a Solo Traveler

    Traveling solo can feel like a wild ride on a rollercoaster, and today's guest, Amanda, is here to share her epic adventure on the Camino. She took a leap from her engineering life into the unknown, embarking on a month-long trek that turned out to be way tougher than she ever imagined. But fear not, because in the midst of blisters and unexpected challenges, she found not just the beauty of the trail but also the kindness of strangers and a deeper connection with herself. We dive into her journey of self-discovery, the importance of taking a breather from the daily grind, and how a little bit of faith can go a long way when you're feeling lost—both on the trail and in life. So, grab your headphones and let’s wander together into the Random and Wonderful world of travel, transformation, and maybe even a few toe tales! Takeaways: Travel often leads to personal transformation, as shared through Amanda's inspiring journey on the Camino. Finding the courage to step away from burnout can open doors to new adventures and self-discovery. The Camino teaches that nature can be both beautiful and brutal, reminding us of life's unpredictability. Engaging with locals and experiencing their kindness can deeply enhance your travel experience, creating unforgettable memories. Amanda Malm Bio: Amanda Malm is a former systems engineer and program manager who spent 21 years at Lockheed Martin before making a bold pivot into wellness coaching. After experiencing deep burnout from nonstop work and travel, Amanda took a year-long sabbatical that completely reshaped her life. She now supports other professionals through burnout recovery and sabbatical planning, helping them heal and reset—whether they can step away from work or must recover while staying in it. Based in Oklahoma, Amanda is a proud pet mom, water aerobics enthusiast, and passionate advocate for intentional rest. Connect with Amanda:  LinkedIn and IG: @sabbaticalshaman Traveler's Mindset Course: https://www.amethystpalaverhut.com/podcast

    33 min
  7. World Schooling: Redefining Education Through Global Experiences

    06/24/2025

    World Schooling: Redefining Education Through Global Experiences

    Ready to dive into a world of adventure and education? This episode features the incredible Janelle Schroy, a full-time world-schooling mom who has taken her four daughters to a staggering 47 countries over the past five and a half years! We explore how she turned the traditional idea of education on its head, making the entire globe their classroom. From road trips to immersive experiences, Janelle shares how her family has embraced a lifestyle filled with learning through travel, proving that education can be as exciting as a zipline through the Amazon. Plus, we chat about the unique challenges and joys of traveling as a family, and how they manage to balance schooling with exploring the wonders of the world. Buckle up, because this episode is packed with inspiration, practical tips, and a whole lot of heart! Takeaways: Traveling with kids can be a wild ride, but it’s totally worth it for the memories and learning experiences. World schooling turns the globe into your classroom, proving that education can happen anywhere—yes, even on a beach! Planning a family trip? Forget the stress! Embrace spontaneity and let adventure lead the way! Connecting with local cultures while traveling enriches education beyond textbooks—your kids will learn lessons they’ll never forget! Creating impactful experiences for your children through travel can spark their passions and shape their futures in ways you can’t imagine! Don’t just travel for fun; travel with purpose! Mix education with adventure and watch your kids thrive! Need a little with your travel planning? Sign up for the Traveler's Mindset Course . Links referenced in this episode: bravelytravel.comyoutube.com/AdventureFamilyJournalyoutube.com/JourneyIntoWild

    33 min
  8. Embracing Transformation: Julie Ulstrup's Journey on El Camino de Santiago

    04/16/2025

    Embracing Transformation: Julie Ulstrup's Journey on El Camino de Santiago

    Julie Ulstrup's journey along the Camino de Santiago serves as a profound testament to the transformative power of travel. Her experience on this ancient pilgrimage not only facilitated a deeper understanding of her own purpose but also culminated in a significant spiritual encounter that catalyzed her alignment with her true mission. Throughout our conversation, we explore the rich tapestry of her adventures, the sense of community she encountered, and the invaluable lessons gleaned from both the journey and the people she met along the way. Julie’s reflections illuminate the intricate relationship between passion and purpose, encouraging us to embrace our own paths of discovery. Join us as we delve into her inspiring narrative, which stands as a reminder of the profound impact that travel can have on our lives. Guest's Bio: Julie Ulstrup is a business strategist and coach who works with educators, medical professionals and other leaders in mission driven businesses who want to start or grow a profitable business so they can have more time and money freedom. Connect with Julie Ulstrup Website: julieulstrup.com/masterclass Instagram: @julieulstrupco Facebook: Julie Ulstrup LinkedIn: Julie Ulstrup YouTube: Julie Ulstrup Traveler’s Mindset Course This course is a beautiful companion for those facing fear, travel anxiety, or seeking clarity through travel. Learn how to use the 8 dimensions of wellness to plan intentional, confidence-building trips. 🔗 Join the course

    33 min
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About

Travel isn’t just about new places—it’s about personal growth, mindset shifts, and embracing the unknown. Hosted by Grace Simmons, a confidence coach and travel enthusiast, this podcast is your go-to guide for overcoming travel anxiety, building confidence, and discovering the wellness practices that make travel transformative. Each episode blends inspiring travel stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you step out of your comfort zone and travel with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time traveler feeling hesitant or an experienced explorer seeking deeper self-discovery through adventure, you’ll find encouragement, motivation, and real-world advice here. Expect engaging interviews with travelers, mindset and wellness experts, and personal stories about navigating fear, finding freedom, and embracing joy on the road. Grace’s down-to-earth approach makes travel feel accessible, empowering you to explore the world without self-doubt holding you back. New episodes every other Tuesday! Hit subscribe to join the journey, and don’t forget to share your own random and wonderful travel moments on IG @random.wonderful.

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