Marrying Your Passions: The DINK Travel and Adventure Podcast

Nathan and Alicia

Welcome to Marrying Your Passions: The DINK Travel and Adventure Podcast! We're Nathan and Alicia, a childfree couple proving you don't have to wait for "someday" to live your best life. Join us as we share travel adventures, marathon stories, foodie discoveries, and honest advice for DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids), empty nesters, and anyone prioritizing adventure NOW. We've explored 47 states, camped across 11,775 miles in our teardrop trailer, visited National Parks from coast to coast, traveled internationally to places like England and Kenya, and Nathan's run marathons in 40 states (and counting). From hunting down the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago to testing moonshine across multiple states to SCUBA diving in the Caribbean, we've learned that the freedom to travel - and eat well - comes from making it a priority, not waiting for the perfect time. Whether we're reviewing adults-only cruises, sharing destination marathon experiences, discovering hidden gem restaurants, exploring breweries and distilleries, or explaining how we turned Alicia's work conferences into cross-country road trips, we're here to inspire you to make adventure part of your everyday life. Plus, you'll meet Peppermint Patty, our dog who predicts college football games (she's 13-3 this season, just saying). We believe life gets richer when you marry your passions with meaningful connections and the freedom to pursue them. Whether you're DINKs like us, empty nesters with newfound freedom, or couples figuring out how to travel more - this podcast is for you. New episodes every other week. Let's make it happen!

  1. FEB 6

    Travel & Leisure's 50 Best Places to Travel for 2026: We Pick Our Dream Destinations

    Travel & Leisure's Top 50 for 2026: We Pick Our Dream Destinations Ever wondered where you'd go if you could travel ANYWHERE in 2026? We're tackling Travel & Leisure's The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026 list by sharing the 11 destinations we've already visited, then each picking our TOP 3 dream destinations from the remaining 39. Where We've Been (11 of 50 and some highlights): Carlsbad, California - Four Seasons luxury post-marathonPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania - Cheesesteaks, Rocky stairs at the Philadelphia Museum of ArtMiami & Miami Beach, Florida - Our former home base! Wynwood art, Versailles, Ms. CheeziousNaples, Florida - Gulf Coast beaches, Alamo DrafthouseWilliamsburg, Virginia - Silver Hand Meadery, Colonial Williamsburg living history museumWashington, D.C. - Founding Farmers, Smithsonian museumsAsheville, North Carolina - Blue Ridge Mountains, brewery sceneDallas/Fort Worth, Texas - Where Nathan WON a marathon at the Texas Quad (plus a Chihuahua finished too!), JFK Sixth Floor MuseumSeattle, Washington - Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Seattle Underground tourSalt Lake City, Utah - (full episode on all things SLC in Episode 5!)BONUS: Masai Mara, Kenya - Safari, Great Migration, Mara Serena Safari Lodge Nathan's Top 3 Dream Destinations: Umbria, Italy - Truffle festivals, 7 UNESCO sites, vegetarian paradiseMagdalena River Cruise, Colombia - Luxury cruise through colonial townsMongolia - Gobi Desert, wild horses, nomadic lifestyle Alicia's Top 3 Dream Destinations: Peru - Amazon Rainforest access, world's #1 restaurantCyprus - Mediterranean beaches, mountains, scuba divingMadhya Pradesh, India - Bengal tiger safaris, wildlife paradise YOUR CHALLENGE: Read the article, pick YOUR top 3, and share with us @MarryingYourPassions on Facebook and Instagram. Visit us on our website: marryingyourpassions.com Resources mentioned: Travel & Leisure's 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026 Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor Next Episode: One City Marathon in Newport News, Virginia, diving deeper into Williamsburg, and exploring this part of Virginia! #DINKTravel #TravelBucketList #Travel2026 #KenyaSafari #AdventureTravel

    1h 32m
  2. JAN 20

    Virgin Voyages Review Part 3: Excursions Guide - Roatan Diving, Costa Maya & Bimini Beach Club

    Our Virgin Voyages series continues! Join us as we share honest reviews of our favorite shore excursions across the Western Caribbean and Bahamas. We dive into scuba experiences with Roatan Dive Center (Leda's Hole and Shark Bait Date) and Neil Watson's Bimini Scuba Center, plus Virgin's healing spa ritual in Costa Maya and relaxing at Bimini Beach Club. Discover our Key West walkthrough: Harry S. Truman Little White House tour, Hemingway Distillery rum tastings, and why Celtic Conch Public House surprised us. We also share our Bimini cultural tour highlights including the conch demonstration and incredible Shell House. Learn the pros and cons of booking shore things through Virgin versus local operators, what to expect at each port, and why mixing up your excursion strategy can save money while supporting local businesses. As always, we end with life takeaways on trying new experiences and marrying your passions to everyday life. Places mentioned in this episode that we recommend: Dive Shops: Roatan Dive Center - Roatan, HondurasNeil Watson's Bimini Scuba Center - Bimini, Bahamas Restaurants/Distilleries: Celtic Conch Public House - Key West, FLHemingway Distillery (Papa's Pilar Rum) - Key West, FLKey West Legal Run - Key West, FL Port Information from Virgin: Costa Maya, MexicoRoatan, HondurasKey West, FL, USA Bimini, Bahamas Other helpful links: Harry S. Truman Little White House - Key West, FLThe Dolphin House - Bimini, BahamasBimini Beach Club Perfect for first-time Virgin Voyages sailors or anyone planning Caribbean travel! Connect: marrinyourpassions.com, @MarryingYourPassions on social media, Blog: https://marryingyourpassions.blogspot.com Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor

    1h 32m
  3. JAN 5

    Virgin Voyages Review Part 2: Activities, Entertainment & Scarlet Night Party Guide

    Welcome back to Part 2 of our Virgin Voyages deep dive! In Episode 11, we covered all the amazing dining options. Now we're exploring everything else you can do on these adult-only ships. In this episode, we cover: Fitness & Wellness: Free fitness classes (yoga, cycling, themed 80s aerobics!)The outdoor running track with ocean viewsWhy Alicia’s Strava thought she ran a 5K in 5 minutes (spoiler: the boat was moving)Our honest spa experience - the good massage and the uncomfortable sales pitch Entertainment: "It's a Ship Show" dinner theater with acrobats performing on a moving boatLive performers: The Magnets (acapella) and Mandible (beatboxer)Trivia nights where Nathan embarrassingly lost music trivia as a music teacherCasino experiences (Nathan's roulette wins and losses) Scarlet Night: - Virgin's Signature Party: The origin story show you shouldn't Google beforehandFree face bedazzling with jewels and glitterWhy everyone dresses up (ball gowns to our 50s flapper look)How this party brings thousands of strangers together Halloween Cruise Special Events: Our Carmen Sandiego & Waldo costumes that stopped strangers for photosPJ party in glow-in-the-dark skeleton onesiesHalloween soiree with costume contest and live 80s bandSpecialty cocktails throughout the ship Virgin vs. Royal Caribbean Comparison: The all-inclusive advantage (no surprise cash tip envelopes!)Dining flexibility differencesWhy Royal Caribbean wins for shopping and art galleriesAlicia's love of cruise art auctions and her Wynwood artist discovery Our Takeaways: Nathan: Use the cruise to be present - put your phone down and embrace the limited WiFiAlicia: Try something new! You've already paid for everything, so go do the things What's Actually Included: We break down exactly what's free (spoiler: almost everything) vs. what costs extra, plus booking tips and what to pack for themed parties. Next Episode Preview: Join us for Episode 13 where we share our port excursions in Roatan, Honduras, Mexico, Bimini (Bahamas), and Key West - including underwater adventures! Episode Length: 56 minutes Hosts: Nathan & Alicia - A Florida-based couple sharing DINKs (Dual Income No Kids) travel experiences, marathon adventures, and tips for making passion projects part of everyday life. Perfect for: Couples researching Virgin Voyages, anyone considering an adult-only cruise, travelers comparing cruise lines, or DINKs looking for vacation inspiration Connect with us: Website: marryingourpassions.comBlog: marryingourpassions.blogspot.comSocial: @marryingourpassionsJoin our Facebook community of nearly 1,700 DINKS travelers!Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google MapsCheck Out Nathan's Reviews on TripadvisorRelated Episodes: Episode 11: Virgin Voyages Dining & OverviewEpisode 5: Park City, Utah Travel Guide Marrying Your Passions is a DINKs travel and adventure podcast helping couples make adventure part of everyday life - whether you're empty nesters, recently retired, or just taking a kid-free trip.

    57 min
  4. 12/22/2025

    Virgin Voyages Review Part 1: Adults-Only Cruise Overview & Dining Experience for DINKs

    BIG NEWS: We're officially Marrying Your Passions: The DINK Travel and Adventure Podcast! After 10 episodes chronicling our epic cross-country road trips, we're getting crystal clear about who we are and who we serve. We're Nathan and Alicia - a childfree couple proving you don't have to wait for "someday" to live your best life. Whether you're DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids) like us, empty nesters with newfound freedom, recently retired, or couples taking kid-free trips, we're here to help you make adventure part of your everyday life. And what better way to kick off our DINK focus than talking about Virgin Voyages - the adults-only cruise line where everyone must be 18 or older? IN THIS EPISODE (PART 1 OF 3): We cover everything you need to know about Virgin Voyages: What makes Virgin Voyages different from traditional cruises Why adults-only matters (and why we don't hate kids despite working with them!) Our Sea Terrace cabin experience - including the famous Virgin hammock The revolutionary dining system - 20+ restaurants, ALL INCLUDED Complete restaurant reviews: Extra Virgin, Pink Agave, Gunbae, Razzle Dazzle, The Test Kitchen, and more Alicia's hilarious drinking game story at Gunbae (spoiler: if you WIN, you DRINK) Why The Test Kitchen's molecular gastronomy is worth trying even if you're nervous The Galley, pizza place, ice cream parlor, and all the casual dining options What you pay for vs. what's free (hint: almost everything is free)Pricing reality and why the mid-tier cost is actually worth it RESTAURANT HIGHLIGHTS: Extra Virgin (Italian) - handmade pasta, fills up fast Pink Agave (Modern Mexican) - GET THE ESQUITES Gunbae (Korean BBQ) - free soju shots and drinking games Razzle Dazzle (Vegetarian-forward) - vegan Nashville hot chicken The Test Kitchen (Molecular Gastronomy) - 6 courses, mind-blowing drink pairings Pizza Place - brick oven, open until 2am Lick Me Till Ice Cream - unlimited free ice cream WHY VIRGIN VOYAGES FOR DINKS: Complete dining freedom - eat when you want, where you want No kids (18+ only) Smaller ships (~2,700 passengers) All-inclusive dining (20+ restaurants) No tipping required Michelin-star chefs Excellent for dietary restrictions (we're vegetarians) FUTURE EPISODES: Part 2: Onboard activities, parties, entertainment, and life lessons Part 3: Excursions, port stops, and SCUBA diving adventures WHO WE ARE: Nathan teaches elementary music to 900 students and has run marathons in 40 states. Alicia works for a nonprofit focused on children. We've explored 47 states, camped 11,775 miles in our teardrop trailer, traveled internationally to places like England and Kenya, and we're SCUBA divers. We love kids - we just chose not to have our own. RESOURCES: Virgin Voyages: virginvoyages.com Our Website: marryingyourpassions.com Our blog: marryingyourpassions.blogspot.com Follow us: @marryingyourpassions on Facebook and Instagram Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor New episodes every other week! #DINKTravel #VirginVoyages #AdultsOnlyCruise #ChildfreeTravel #CruiseReview

    57 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    The Last Leg: Chicago, Nashville & Why We Don't Wait

    Join Nathan and Alicia as they wrap up their epic 11,775-mile summer camping adventure! When Alicia had a Chicago conference on the calendar, instead of just flying in for work, they turned it into the anchor point for a two-month cross-country journey. This episode covers their last week on the road - proving that work and travel can mix perfectly when you get creative. While Alicia worked, Nathan explored solo: running the Lakefront Trail, catching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, and hunting down One Chicago filming locations. Evenings at the peaceful campground brought couple time, plus adventures to Lottie's Pub and romantic dinners. In Nashville, they camped at Two Rivers Campground before hitting Tootsies on Lower Broadway and discovering Ole Smoky Moonshine's incredible flagship location. Learn how they navigated two months on the road while balancing work responsibilities - no kids, just their cat Gremlin and the freedom to explore. Key takeaway: Don't wait for retirement. Take calculated risks and get creative with work-travel balance. PLACES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: LINCOLN, NEBRASKA:  Food & Drink: HopCat, Lincoln CHICAGO AREA: Camping:  Chicago Northwest KOA Holiday - Union Attractions:  Wrigley Field Lakefront Trail Navy Pier One Chicago Filming Locations Food & Drink:  Lincoln House & Co Coffee and Wine Bar - Huntley Lou Malnati's Pizzeria - Elk Grove Moore Brewing Company - Huntley Sew Hop’d Brewery - Huntley Lottie's Pub - Chicago Abbondanza Cucina - Marengo Garrett Popcorn O'Hare Airport and OnlineJeni’s Ice Creams - WrigleyvilleAlamo Drafthouse - Wrigleyville NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Camping Two Rivers Campground Food & Drink The Butter Milk RanchSmith Creek Moonshine Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tootsie's Orchid Lounge CORDELE, GEORGIA:  Camping: Love's RV Stop CONNECT WITH US:  Website: marryingyourpassions.comBlog (with exclusive photos): marryingyourpassions.blogspot.com Social Media: @MarryingYourPassions (all platforms) Follow Peppermint Patty's college football picks on Facebook (12-1 record!)Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google MapsCheck Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor UP NEXT:  Join us next time as we set sail with Virgin Voyages! Discover why we've become fans of this adults-only cruise line, our favorite excursions, and why cruising might be the perfect getaway for couples who want adventure without the planning. Episode 11 coming soon!

    1h 29m
  6. 11/12/2025

    Denver Insider Tips with Crazy Love Africa

    In this follow-up to our previous Denver episode where we shared our own favorite places and experiences from living in the Mile High City, we're excited to bring you an interview with Ben and Jess Wiederholt, owners of two unique African-themed Airbnbs in Denver, Colorado - the Matooke House and the African Loft. Our stop in Denver was a highlight of our cross country 2024 summer road trip that we've been chronicling throughout recent episodes, and it was made even more special by staying at the Wiederholt's beautiful Matooke House.  Discover how their journey of adopting children from Ethiopia and Uganda led to founding the nonprofit Crazy Love Africa, which empowers women living with HIV through micro-business grants and education programs. Ben and Jess share their "life unscripted" philosophy and how they've woven their passion for Africa, entrepreneurship, and hospitality into both their Airbnb business and nonprofit work. As Denver locals, they offer additional insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and explore in the city - from hidden gem breweries and Ethiopian restaurants to mountain town getaways and scenic running trails. Whether you listened to our previous Denver episode, call Denver home, or you're just discovering the city, this conversation adds even more must-visit spots to your list. We also discuss their upcoming Homecoming Gala fundraiser, international travel tips (including a memorable story about a lime and customs), and advice for anyone wanting to turn their passion into a family mission and business venture. Featured in this episode: The connection between Airbnb hospitality and nonprofit mission workDenver restaurant recommendations such as: Sojourners Coffee, Beau Jo’s Pizza, Cherry Cricket, Konjo Ethiopian, African Bar and GrillWeekend getaway suggestions including: Red Rocks, Boulder's Chautauqua Park, hot springs, and Estes ParkCraft brewery favorites and the Great American Beer FestivalPractical travel tips for large families and international tripsHow to support Crazy Love Africa Connect with Crazy Love Africa: crazyloveafrica.com| @crazyloveafrica on Facebook and Instagram Connect with us:  marrinyourpassions.com | @MarryingYourPassions on social media Rate, review, and share if this episode inspires your next adventure! Visit us on our website:  https://marryingyourpassions.com Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor Coming Up Next: Join us in our next episode as we wrap up our reflection on our epic 2024 summer road trip with stops in Chicago, Nashville, and more!

    56 min
  7. 10/29/2025

    Wamego, KS (Land of Oz), Denver, CO (our former home), and Quick Colorado Day Trips

    Join us as we continue our epic 2024 summer road trip, heading west from Branson to the quirky Wizard of Oz-themed town of Wamego, Kansas, and then on to our former home of Denver, Colorado! Hear about our first camper mishap and our SUV's "turtle mode" incident in 100+ degree heat—and why staying adaptable is key to any adventure! Connect with us:  marrinyourpassions.com, @MarryingYourPassions on social media, Blog: https://marryingyourpassions.blogspot.com Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor Places mentioned in this episode that we recommend! Wamego, Kansas Wamego Historical MuseumOz WineryParamour CoffeeCalvin’s RV CampingKreem Kup Diner Denver, Colorado - Five Years of Favorites AirBnb House: Matooke House on West Side of DenverMust-Eat Spots: The Pig and SproutWatercourse Foods Esther'sBirdcallSyrup Breweries & Distilleries:  Woods BossLowry Beer GardenDenver Beer CompanyStranahan's (Nathan's favorite whiskey)Top Attractions: Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge (see bison from your car!)Red Rocks AmphitheaterDenver's incredible park and trail systemGaylord Rockies Resort sports barDay Trips:  Rocky Mountain National ParkGarden of the Gods (park)Pikes Peak (famous high-altitude donuts and purple mountain majesty)Mount Blue Sky (highest city park in the United States)Georgetown Loop RailroadBreckenridge (ski, shop, dine, and more) Join us next episode for an interview with Matooke House Airbnb owners sharing their inspiration and passion behind owning AirBnb's and running a nonprofit. Plus they share Denver insider tips! Rate, review, and share if this episode inspires your next adventure!

    1h 17m
  8. 10/13/2025

    Gliding Light Paddle Co a Branson Insider Interview

    We're so excited to share this special milestone episode with you—our very first guest on Marrying Your Passions! We sat down with Danielle, owner of Gliding Light Paddle Company, for an insider's guide to one of our favorite destinations: Branson, Missouri. Danielle shares her inspiring journey from healthcare worker to paddle board business owner and how she's built a thriving community on Table Rock Lake that welcomes both locals and tourists alike. In This Episode, You'll Discover: How to turn your passion into a business while building authentic communityInsider tips for visiting Branson, including hidden gems like Dogwood Canyon, Clevenger Cove, and Eureka SpringsWhy different seasons offer unique experiences in the Branson areaLocal favorites like Andy's Frozen Custard, Buzzard Bar, and Lakeside Forest Wilderness AreaThe therapeutic power of paddle boarding and outdoor adventuresDanielle's exciting international paddle boarding plans Whether you're planning your first trip to Branson or you're a seasoned visitor looking for new experiences, this episode is packed with authentic recommendations and heartfelt stories about finding peace on the water. We've already added several of Danielle's suggestions to our list for our next visit! Connect with Gliding Light Paddle Co: Facebook & Instagram: @glidinglightpaddlecoWebsite: glidinglightpaddle.com (relaunching Spring 2026)Upcoming Fall Foliage Paddles: October 25 & November 1, 2025 Special thanks to our amazing Marrying Your Passions community for helping us reach nearly 1,000 followers on Facebook! Connect with us:  marrinyourpassions.com | @MarryingYourPassions on social media Rate, review, and share if this episode inspires your next adventure! Visit us on our website:  https://marryingyourpassions.com Check out Alicia's Reviews on Google Maps Check Out Nathan's Reviews on Tripadvisor Dive deeper by checking out our blog at marryingyourpassions.blogspot.com Next Episode: We'll continue our 2024 summer road trip, visiting an unexpected favorite place and a location we once called home.

    40 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Marrying Your Passions: The DINK Travel and Adventure Podcast! We're Nathan and Alicia, a childfree couple proving you don't have to wait for "someday" to live your best life. Join us as we share travel adventures, marathon stories, foodie discoveries, and honest advice for DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids), empty nesters, and anyone prioritizing adventure NOW. We've explored 47 states, camped across 11,775 miles in our teardrop trailer, visited National Parks from coast to coast, traveled internationally to places like England and Kenya, and Nathan's run marathons in 40 states (and counting). From hunting down the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago to testing moonshine across multiple states to SCUBA diving in the Caribbean, we've learned that the freedom to travel - and eat well - comes from making it a priority, not waiting for the perfect time. Whether we're reviewing adults-only cruises, sharing destination marathon experiences, discovering hidden gem restaurants, exploring breweries and distilleries, or explaining how we turned Alicia's work conferences into cross-country road trips, we're here to inspire you to make adventure part of your everyday life. Plus, you'll meet Peppermint Patty, our dog who predicts college football games (she's 13-3 this season, just saying). We believe life gets richer when you marry your passions with meaningful connections and the freedom to pursue them. Whether you're DINKs like us, empty nesters with newfound freedom, or couples figuring out how to travel more - this podcast is for you. New episodes every other week. Let's make it happen!