One More Thing Before You Go

Michael R Herst

A cinematic interview podcast exploring culture, identity, creativity, and the human stories that shape who we become. Hosted by Michael Herst, the show features long‑form, intimate conversations with chefs, writers, artists, travelers, and cultural storytellers who explore heritage, belonging, reinvention, and the way food, travel, and shared experiences connect us. Each episode unfolds like a shared Mediterranean table — warm, intentional, unhurried — inviting guests to slow down, go deeper, and reveal the stories behind their work, their roots, and their evolution… and you’re invited to take a seat at the table. Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

  1. 18H AGO

    The Transformative Power of Travel with Douglas Brouwer -Encore

    What is it about travel that truly transforms us? Does stepping into a new place make us wiser and more connected, or is travel sometimes just an escape from the everyday? In this powerful encore conversation, I sit down with Douglas Brouwer, seasoned traveler and author of The Traveler’s Path: Finding Spiritual Growth and Inspiration Through Travel. Douglas has spent a lifetime exploring the world — not just for the sights, but for the deeper lessons found along the way. From childhood road trips across North America to living abroad, leading pilgrimages, study tours, mission trips, and even visiting prisons around the world, Douglas has experienced travel in all its forms. His work invites us to rethink not where we go, but how we go — and how to turn every journey into a “worthy adventure.” We explore spiritual restlessness, the myths of bucket lists, and the ways travel shapes who we become. Whether you’re planning your next trip or reflecting on the journeys that changed you, this episode offers insight, meaning, and a fresh way to see the world. (Encore: The Transformative Power of Travel with Douglas Brouwer from July 2025) Key Takeaways: • Travel can be a catalyst for wisdom, compassion, and personal transformation • Meaningful travel deepens our connection to people and cultures • Not all travel is transformative — sometimes it’s simply escape • Intentional travel invites reflection, perspective, and growth • Experiencing history firsthand reshapes our understanding of humanity • Travel‑born empathy strengthens how we show up in the world Listen on Apple podcast, Spotify, your favorite platform, catches on YouTube Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    43 min
  2. 4D AGO

    Reinventing the Creative Life with Aaron Ryan: Resilience, and life unfiltered

    Bestselling author Aaron Ryan has written 41 books and reinvented himself more times than most creatives attempt in a lifetime. In this conversation, we explore how he found his voice, rebuilt after toxic environments, and continues to thrive in a world reshaped by AI. This episode is a powerful look at resilience, storytelling, and the courage to evolve as a creator. Creativity isn’t a straight line — it’s a lifelong act of reinvention. In this episode, Michael sits down with bestselling and award‑winning author Aaron Ryan, a storyteller whose career embodies resilience, transformation, and the courage to evolve. With 41 published books, multiple screen adaptations, and a creative journey that spans writing, voice acting, music, and more, Aaron brings a rare depth to the conversation. Together, they explore: How to find (and protect) your authentic creative voiceThe intersection of storytelling and lived experienceReinventing yourself after leaving toxic spacesNavigating the shifting landscape of AI and the voiceover industryThe realities of self‑publishing and creative marketingWhy adversity often becomes the fuel for our best work This is a powerful, honest conversation about what it means to be a creator today — the reinvention, the risk, the resilience, and the unshakable drive to keep telling stories that matter. If you’re a writer, artist, or anyone standing at the edge of your next chapter, this episode will meet you right where you are. Find us on Apple, Spotify or your favorite listening platform; visit us on our YouTube channel Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast Want to be a guest on One More Thing Before You Go? Send Michael Herst a message on PodMatch, here: PODMATCH Proud member of the Podmatch Network of Top Rated- Podcasts This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    49 min
  3. APR 8

    Hiking for Healing: A Veteran's Journey on the Appalachian Trail

    At 72 years old, Marine combat veteran Rand R. Timmerman did something most people half his age will never attempt: he hiked the entire 2,100‑mile Appalachian Trail. But this wasn’t just an adventure — it was a mission. Rand set out to help his brother Ron, a 71‑year‑old Army veteran and commercial pilot, who was drowning in grief after losing his wife. Rand himself was in recovery from alcoholism. What began as a physical challenge became a spiritual passage — one that transformed both brothers in ways they never expected. In this deeply moving conversation, Rand shares the humor, danger, heartbreak, and healing that unfolded mile after mile. From critters and storms to moments of grace and unexpected human kindness, this is a story about resilience, brotherhood, and the power of nature to restore the soul. His book, A Spiritual Passage, captures their journey with 500 stunning photographs and raw, honest journal entries. Today, Rand brings that story to us — and it’s one you won’t forget. In this episode, we explore: Why two Vietnam veterans chose to hike the Appalachian Trail in their 70sHow grief, addiction, and trauma shaped their journeyThe spiritual moments that changed everythingThe dangers, humor, and unexpected encounters along the trailWhat 2,100 miles taught Rand about healing, purpose, and brotherhood This is a story about pain, perseverance, and the extraordinary things that happen when you put one foot in front of the other — even when the mountain feels too steep. Find us on Apple, Spotify or your favorite listening platform; visit us on our YouTube channel Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast Want to be a guest on One More Thing Before You Go? Send Michael Herst a message on PodMatch, here: PODMATCH Proud member of the Podmatch Network of Top Rated- Podcasts This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    1h 4m
  4. MAR 25

    Food, Travel & the Stories That Shape Us with Karl Wilder

    In this episode, Michael sits down with chef, storyteller, and world traveler Karl Wilder for a conversation that feels like sharing a great meal with an old friend. Together, they explore how food connects us — not just to flavors, but to memories, people, and the moments that shape who we are. Karl opens up about the dishes he’ll never forget, the places that changed him, and the unexpected path that led him from the kitchen to writing and voice acting. This is a warm, sensory, down‑to‑earth conversation about travel, culture, and the stories behind the meals we love. If you enjoy good food, good company, and a good story, you’ll feel right at home here. Takeaways: Food serves as a profound reflection of our identities, chronicling our histories and experiences.Traveling enriches our understanding of diverse cultures, fostering connections through shared culinary experiences.The act of storytelling can be intricately woven into the culinary arts, enhancing our appreciation of flavor and place.Emotional connections to food can evoke powerful memories, revealing the significance of meals in our lives.Engaging with local artisans and traditional cooks provides invaluable insights into the cultural narratives behind cuisine.Curiosity is a vital driving force in the exploration of food, travel, and human connection, prompting us to seek deeper understanding. Find us on Apple, Spotify or your favorite listening platform; visit us on our YouTube channel Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast Want to be a guest on One More Thing Before You Go? Send Michael Herst a message on PodMatch, here: PODMATCH Proud member of the Podmatch Network of Top Rated- Podcasts This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    1h 8m
  5. MAR 18

    Transformative Travel: How Study Abroad, & Group Travel Shape Identity and Purpose

    Travel can be more than a trip—it can be a turning point. In this episode, Michael Herst sits down with Dr. Joy Owens, CEO of Butler Travel, to explore how travel becomes a catalyst for transformation in students, families, and leaders alike. From study abroad experiences to humanitarian missions, Joy shares how stepping into unfamiliar places can reshape identity, deepen connection, and awaken purpose. Born from missionary roots in Tanzania, Butler Travel continues to create meaningful, accessible journeys that go far beyond sightseeing. If you’ve ever wondered how travel can truly change a life—this conversation will show you how. Takeaways: Travel serves as a powerful catalyst for transformation, reshaping identity and purpose across diverse demographics.Engaging with different cultures fosters humility and curiosity, enriching our understanding of humanity.Dr. Joy Owens emphasizes the importance of experiential learning through travel, which profoundly impacts students and adults alike.Humanitarian missions provide unique opportunities to witness resilience and generosity in the face of adversity, altering participants' worldviews.A well-planned trip enhances educational outcomes, as traveling activates learning in ways textbooks cannot embody.The journey of travel encourages individuals to connect deeply with their surroundings and the people they encounter. Find us on Apple, Spotify or your favorite listening platform; visit us on our YouTube channel Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast Want to be a guest on One More Thing Before You Go? Send Michael Herst a message on PodMatch, here: PODMATCH Proud member of the Podmatch Network of Top Rated- Podcasts PSA: apologies for the episode, posting late we had an Internet outage overnight. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    51 min
5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

A cinematic interview podcast exploring culture, identity, creativity, and the human stories that shape who we become. Hosted by Michael Herst, the show features long‑form, intimate conversations with chefs, writers, artists, travelers, and cultural storytellers who explore heritage, belonging, reinvention, and the way food, travel, and shared experiences connect us. Each episode unfolds like a shared Mediterranean table — warm, intentional, unhurried — inviting guests to slow down, go deeper, and reveal the stories behind their work, their roots, and their evolution… and you’re invited to take a seat at the table. Find everything "One More Thing" here: https://taplink.cc/beforeyougopodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

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