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:

1. feelgoodgetaways.com
2. linkedin.com/in/rebeccathomas

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

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

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

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.com
• youtube.com/AdventureFamilyJournal
• youtube.com/JourneyIntoWild

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

How do faith, wellness, and travel intersect to create a fulfilling life? Dr. Alaine Ainsley, a Maryland-based primary care physician, joins The Random and Wonderful Podcast to share her journey of faith-driven purpose, patient-centered care, and personal growth through travel. Tune in for insights on staying spiritually, physically, and emotionally well—no matter where life takes you.

Getting to know today's guest:

Dr. Alaine Ainsley is a faith-driven primary care physician in Maryland who specializes in patient-centered healthcare for all ages. Passionate about medicine, wellness, and travel, she believes in holistic healing—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. When she’s not caring for patients, Alaine is growing in her faith, exploring new places, and embracing purpose in every season of life.

Ever thought about packing up and moving to a new country? Travel strategist and journalist Rafael Peña joins me on The Random and Wonderful Podcast to share his journey from event planning in New York to living in Thailand, Argentina, Italy, and Portugal. We dive into how travel expands your perspective, the power of representation in media, and why every Black and Brown traveler should spend at least a year abroad. Tune in for practical travel strategies, eye-opening stories, and a fresh take on global exploration!

Rafael Peña's Bio:

Rafael Peña is a travel strategist and journalist whose work has been featured in Black Enterprise, Travel Noire, Miami Herald, DetourXP, and many other publications. Having lived in Thailand, Italy, Portugal, and Argentina, Rafael is passionate about redefining the travel industry for Black and Brown travelers. He believes that everyone should experience living abroad for at least a year to gain a broader global perspective.

Resources Mentioned:

• Travel Noire – https://travelnoire.com/author/Rafael Pena

• Black Enterprise – https://www.blackenterprise.com/author/penar/

• DetourXP – https://detourxp.com/

• Ebony Expats & Black Expat Facebook Groups – Great resources for moving abroad