The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel

The RISE Travel Institute
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The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel

Gathering scholars, activists and tourism professionals with expertise in intersectional social justice, DEI, sustainability, and decolonial theory for conversations surrounding the ethics of travel, we’re here to move a step beyond the “Instagram ready” world of travel and to think critically and deeply about how travel can uplift global communities, protect natural ecosystems, and be a source of growth for travelers.Here at RISE Travel Institute we are committed to empowering travelers and travel professionals through education. Our programs, research, Experiential Journeys, scholarships, and free resources are all aimed at bringing you closer to a more responsible and ethical travel experience. Learn more by visiting RISETravelInstitute.org

  1. 5H AGO

    From Camper Vans to Conscious Travel with Cathy Ji

    In this episode, host Amy chats with Cathy Ji, a longtime RISE volunteer and Senior Manager of Finance and Fundraising. Cathy shares her journey into sustainable travel—from a spontaneous campervan trip during the pandemic to a life-changing solo adventure in Vietnam. She opens up about the ethical wake-up call that led her to veganism, reflects on the hidden impacts of Airbnb, and champions the value of slow, intentional travel. Tune in for thoughtful stories, practical tips, and a reminder that every step we take as travelers matters. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    23 min

  2. MAY 16

    How experiential travel can create positive impact with Jodi Suckle

    In this episode, Amy sits down with Jodi Suckle, Experiential Travel Manager at RISE Travel Institute, live from Guatemala. They explore what it means to plan ethical, intentional journeys that benefit both travelers and host communities. Jodi shares her path into sustainable travel, the power of homestays, and how conscious travel can shape future global citizens—especially students. If you're curious about how to travel with purpose, this episode is for you. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    17 min

  3. MAY 9

    Kara King on Conscious Travel, Refugee Work, and Rewriting the Travel Narrative

    In this powerful and inspiring conversation, host Amy Hagar reconnects with longtime RISE volunteer and content creator Kara King. From writing blog posts and editing podcasts to working with refugees in Greece, Kara shares how her experiences have shaped her commitment to ethical storytelling and conscious travel. A few key takeaways in the episode:  Why Kara joined RISE during a pandemic-era virtual summit How volunteering at RISE sparked personal and professional growth Lessons from her time volunteering in a refugee camp in Greece The importance of amplifying local voices in travel content How the future of travel media is shifting toward more meaningful narratives Practical advice for content creators who want to make a positive impactWebsite: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    22 min

  4. MAY 2

    A Journey of Connection with Kristin Barron

    In this episode, host Amy Hager talks with Kristen Barron, grant manager at RISE Travel Institute, about her journey from corporate life to sustainable travel advocacy. Kristen shares how her 18-month career break transformed her approach to travel, the deeper lessons she learned from experiences like walking the Camino de Santiago, and how RISE’s mission aligns with her personal values. Together, they explore the importance of critical thinking, intentional travel, and cultivating deeper connections with people, places, and purpose. Plus, Kristen offers insight into the challenges of securing grants for systemic, educational work at RISE. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    27 min

  5. APR 4

    Embracing the unknown: A conversation with Barbara Zerbe on Travel and Growth

    The episode features a conversation with Barbara Zerbe (she/her), a volunteer who heads up our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion policy and implementation. Barbara is the founder and CEO of BZ Strategies, LLC, where she helps businesses navigate chaos and achieve growth through strategic project management, streamlined operations, targeted marketing, and impactful coaching. A firm believer in authentic leadership, Barbara is dedicated to building systems and processes that drive success while fostering a culture of health, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. She shares insights into travel, adventure, and personal growth. The discussion covers Barbara’s experiences exploring different cultures, embracing uncertainty, and learning from travel challenges. This episode emphasizes the importance of travel as a means of personal development and broadening one’s worldview. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    22 min

  6. MAR 26 · BONUS

    Mini-episode! A focus on Travel Education with Steve Hesse

    The RISE Travel podcast is packed with valuable insights, so we’ve pulled out some key highlights for our listeners. Alongside our full-length episodes, we’ll also release shorter ones to make it easier for everyone to find the information they need.  This mini-episode is from Season 1, Episode  5 (link for full episode).  In this episode Steve Hesse, RISE Institute Board member, highlights the importance of  integrating with local communities during student travel, avoiding corporate entities to support the local economy. He describes cultural exchange activities with local schools, highlighting the joy and intensity of cross-cultural connections, even with language barriers.  Steve also shares personal anecdotes, such as a transformative experience at the Taj Mahal and a chance encounter in Japan that led to meeting his partner. He also discusses the challenges of cultural misunderstandings, using an example from India to illustrate the need for awareness and respect for local customs and social norms. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    15 min

  7. MAR 7

    Focus on tourism and forced migration with Dr. Gada Mahrouse

    In this episode of the Rise Traveler podcast, Vincie Ho interviews Dr. Gada Mahrouse, an Associate Professor at Concordia University's Simone de Beauvoir Institute, about the intersection of tourism and forced migration. Dr. Mahrouse discusses her research on the representation of refugees in media and the challenges of solidarity across racialized power relations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context of colonization and the need for decolonizing travel. Dr. Mahrouse also shares her teaching approach, which encourages critical thinking about tourism's impact on power dynamics and advocates for open borders. The conversation highlights the complexities of tourism's role in social justice and the need for mindful travel practices. Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    57 min

  8. JAN 21

    Sustainability and Accessibility of Tourism: what are the hidden costs with Dr. Freya Higgins-Desbiolles

    In this episode of The RISE Traveler Podcast, Dr. Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, an Adjunct Associate Professor with Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Canada, Adjunct Professor with the Centre for Research and Innovation in Tourism, Taylor’s University of Malaysia and an Adjunct Senior Lecturer with the Business Unit, University of South Australia shares her insights around the impacts of tourism on local communities, with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, and justice.  She has worked with industry, community and non-profits on projects that have worked at the cutting edge of just and sustainable tourism. One highlight of her work has been working with the Palestinian Initiative on Responsible Tourism to develop the Code of Conduct for Tourism in the Holy Land. Host: Dr. Vincie Ho - Founder and Executive Director of The RISE Travel Institute Video and Audio Editing: Megan Orvis - Video and Podcast Producer at The RISE Travel Institute Graphic Design: Shirley Wong - Freelance Art Director Music: "On My Way" Kevin MacLeod (License)  Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

    1h 7m
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About

Gathering scholars, activists and tourism professionals with expertise in intersectional social justice, DEI, sustainability, and decolonial theory for conversations surrounding the ethics of travel, we’re here to move a step beyond the “Instagram ready” world of travel and to think critically and deeply about how travel can uplift global communities, protect natural ecosystems, and be a source of growth for travelers.Here at RISE Travel Institute we are committed to empowering travelers and travel professionals through education. Our programs, research, Experiential Journeys, scholarships, and free resources are all aimed at bringing you closer to a more responsible and ethical travel experience. Learn more by visiting RISETravelInstitute.org

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