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Most memorable journeys

Most memorable journeys

Written by: Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis
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About this listen

Most Memorable Journeys” is a travel and life journey focused podcast hosted by Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis. Drawing on her extensive background—11 years as a tour guide and 15 years as a conference interpreter—the show brings guests from around the globe to share their most unforgettable travel experiences but also their life experience and wisdom. Each episode dives into fascinating stories and personal reflections—from cultural heritage campaigns and aviation entrepreneurship to cosmic storytelling and life-changing journeys—aimed at entertaining, inspiring wanderlust, and reminding listeners that “life is too short to stay in the same place” In short: it’s a weekly series of in-depth conversations with individuals whose travel experiences left a lasting impact, hosted by a multilingual globetrotter who’s visited over 100 countries and now lives in Cyprus.Copyright 2026 Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis Self-Help Social Sciences Success Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • #241 - Stephanie Molina y Vedia - The Fearless Football Agent
    Apr 21 2026

    In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, I sit down with my dear friend Stephanie Molina y Vedia, a woman whose life story is nothing short of extraordinary.

    A mother of four, a global citizen, and the only female football agent in Switzerland, Stephanie’s journey is one of courage, reinvention, and unwavering determination.

    From dominating the male-driven world of commodities trading as the “Cobalt Queen” to disrupting the football industry with her own agency, Stephanie has continuously redefined what is possible, both personally and professionally.

    But behind her success lies a moment that changed everything.

    The moment that changed her life:

    At the birth of her fourth child, Stephanie heard the words no mother ever wants to hear:

    “You have eight minutes… the mother and the child have eight minutes.”

    Her daughter Abigail was born prematurely at 27 weeks, and what followed were months of uncertainty, fear, and resilience. Against all odds, both survived, but the experience left a permanent imprint.

    Those eight minutes became a turning point.

    A moment that brought absolute clarity about what truly matters: connection, love, time, and the courage to live fully.

    Before this life-changing event, Stephanie built an impressive career in the commodities world, working with Glencore International AG, managing high-level deals and projects exceeding 50 million USD. Known as the “Queen of Cobalt”, she thrived in a highly competitive, male-dominated environment.

    But after her daughter’s birth, everything shifted.

    She stepped away, reassessed her life, and chose a completely new path, one that would offer freedom, purpose, and deeper human connection.

    Reinventing herself in the world of Football

    Stephanie entered yet another male-dominated industry: professional football.

    With courage and vision, she founded Asmantra Sports, a boutique, female-led football agency that brings a human, relationship-driven approach to sports management.

    Today, she stands as the only female football agent in Switzerland and a true industry disruptor, working across Europe and South America.

    Her work, however, goes beyond representing players. Stephanie is now also developing a course designed specifically for parents of young football talents, guiding them on how to support, nurture, and navigate their children’s potential in a demanding and often complex industry.

    Her success is not built on following the rules, but on redefining them.

    In our conversation, Stephanie shares:

    • How adversity can become your greatest turning point
    • What it takes to succeed in male-dominated industries
    • The power of emotional intelligence in business
    • Why connection is the true currency of success
    • How motherhood shaped her leadership and purpose
    • The courage it takes to reinvent yourself, again and again

    Her story is a masterclass in resilience, self-leadership, and fearless decision-making.

    Born in Houston to Argentine and American parents, Stephanie grew up in an international environment and has lived and worked across the world, including Russia, Hungary, Spain, and Switzerland.

    Fluent in five languages, she has a natural ability to connect across cultures, a skill that has been instrumental in her success.

    Her life has been shaped by travel, diversity, and a deep understanding of people.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Stephanie is a devoted mother of four and a passionate advocate for female entrepreneurship.

    She is a woman who lives with intensity, authenticity, and purpose, whether she is negotiating deals, supporting athletes, or hiking in the mountains.

    Her philosophy is simple yet powerful:

    Be fearless. Be honest. And never forget who you are.

    Stephanie’s journey reminds us that life does not always go according to plan but sometimes, the most difficult moments lead us exactly where we are meant to be.

    That reinvention is always possible.

    And that true success is not just about what we achieve but. about how deeply we live, love, and connect.

    If you have ever felt the need to start again, to pivot, or to step into a new version of yourself, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

    Because sometimes… it only takes one moment to change everything.

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    49 mins
  • #240 - Marcia Martin - She helped create the human potential movement
    Apr 14 2026

    In this powerful episode, I sit down with Marcia Martin, a true pioneer in the world of personal transformation.

    For over five decades, Marcia has been at the forefront of leadership, communication, and human potential, helping shape an entire industry. This conversation is not just about success, it is about truth, authenticity, and what it really means to step into your power.

    Marcia Martin is not just part of the human potential movement, she helped create it.

    She played a key role in transforming a small seminar into the globally recognised Erhard Seminars Training, later known as Landmark Forum. Its founder, Werner Erhard, described her as “the woman who put est on the map.”

    Her influence extends to major transformational platforms and leaders, including programs like Lifespring, The Hoffman Process, and the early emergence of Tony Robbins.

    What we explore:

    In our conversation, Marcia shares her profound perspective on transformation, not as something we fix, but something we unlock.

    We talk about:

    1. Authentic power and true leadership
    2. The role of communication in creating impact
    3. How to build cultures that inspire change
    4. Why transformation begins within

    Her work blends strategic clarity with deep emotional and spiritual insight, creating lasting and meaningful change.

    As CEO of Marcia Martin Productions, Marcia has trained over 350,000 people worldwide and coached leaders across four continents.

    Her clients include global brands such as Warner Bros., Capital One, Hard Rock International, Chase Bank, InterContinental Hotels Group, Danone and Evian.

    She is widely recognised as one of the most effective leadership and communication trainers in the world.

    Marcia’s journey is deeply personal. Her bestselling memoir, Sex, Power, and Transformation, reflects her path of reclaiming her voice and redefining power on her own terms.

    Her teaching is not about surface-level motivation, it is about presence, truth, and real transformation.

    This episode is a reminder that leadership is not about authority, it is about authenticity.

    When we access our inner power, we don’t just change ourselves, we influence everything around us.


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    44 mins
  • #239 - Jill Douka - Leading with Purpose, Power and Heart
    Apr 7 2026

    In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode, I sit down with Jill Douka, a woman who truly embodies leadership, transformation, and global impact.

    Ranked among the top 4% of coaches worldwide as a Master Certified Coach (MCC) by the International Coaching Federation, Jill is not only a coach, but a force of change. Through her work, she has empowered thousands of individuals across Europe, the USA, and Asia to step into their full potential.


    This conversation goes beyond titles and achievements. It is about purpose, resilience, and what it really means to lead, both in life and in business.


    Jill is the Academic Director and founder of the Global Academy of Coaching, where she has trained leaders in more than 30 countries.


    An International Bestselling Author, her book Create Love has touched lives worldwide, alongside her other impactful works including How to Create Your Life, Suddenly Now, Woman Now, and The 10X Plan.


    Her journey is as dynamic as it is inspiring. With Greek-Canadian roots and a truly global presence, Jill has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most celebrated coaches. She was among the first Europeans to speak at TEDx events in both Asia and Europe within the same year, a testament to her international influence.


    In our conversation, Jill shares her unique perspective on transformation, leadership, and navigating change in a fast-moving world.


    We dive into:


    What it takes to become a top 4% coach globally


    How to lead with clarity, confidence and compassion


    The power of unlocking your inner energy and strengths


    Why personal transformation is the foundation of professional success


    The evolving role of women in leadership and entrepreneurship


    How coaching can truly change lives


    Jill’s approach blends strategic thinking with deep emotional intelligence, making her work both powerful and deeply human.


    Jill’s academic and professional journey reflects her commitment to growth and excellence.


    She holds an MBA from ALBA and is a graduate of the International Coach Academy. Her studies also include Human Resources at Cornell University and a Master’s Degree in Cultural Management and Political Science from Université Paris Dauphine.


    Adding another dimension to her profile, Jill also explored her artistic side through Contemporary Dance and Choreography at the Merce Cunningham Foundation in New York, a beautiful reflection of her creativity and multidimensional personality.


    Jill is not only a leader in her field, but also a passionate mentor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.


    She is a contributor to the Forbes Coaches Council, a frequent guest on television and radio, and has been featured in international publications such as The Times of India and Madame Figaro.


    She is also actively involved in leading coaching and mentoring organisations across Europe, continuously shaping the future of the industry.


    Beyond her impressive career, Jill is a proud mother to her daughter Joy, who plays a central role in her life. She is also a passionate athlete, training daily through swimming, cycling, and running, embodying the values of discipline, resilience, and balance that she teaches.


    Jill truly lives what she speaks.


    This episode is a reminder that leadership is not about titles, it is about impact.


    It is about showing up with authenticity, courage, and a willingness to grow.


    Jill Douka’s journey is proof that when you combine purpose with action, and vision with heart, you can create a life and a legacy, that inspires others across the world.


    To learn more about Jill’s work, speaking engagements, and coaching programs, explore her Global Academy of Coaching and discover her bestselling books.


    If you are ready to step into your next level, in life, business, or leadership, this conversation will leave you inspired, energised, and ready to take action.



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    43 mins
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