Speaking of Travel

Speaking of Travel

Each week, Speaking of Travel host Marilyn Ball shares her guests’ unique travel experiences that are inspiring, uplifting, enriching and informative. Sit back and be carried away to places from around the world and right here in our own backyard.

Episodes

June 29, 2025 44 mins
In this vibrant and heart-centered episode, we sit down with Vanessa K. Harper, co-founder of Travel Cuba With Us, Support the Cuban People, and Cuba Yoga Retreats, to explore the powerful intersection of ethical tourism, yoga, and humanitarian support in Cuba today. Vanessa leads with purpose, offering deeply immersive cultural experiences that directly benefit Cuban communities. Through her travel company, she curates legal, peop...
Mark as Played
What if planning your next adventure felt more like a conversation with a trusted friend than a checklist? In this episode of Speaking of Travel, I’m joined by Anna Jaffe and Harriet Brown of Mobi.AI, a powerful new platform reimagining travel planning through the lens of empathy, technology, and storytelling. Together we explore how AI is helping travelers find what really speaks to them beyond the filters and booking engines and ...
Mark as Played
On this special episode on Speaking of Travel, we're joined by an editorial icon and storytelling powerhouse, Pilar Guzmán, Editorial Director of Oprah Daily. Pilar’s work is a beacon for those seeking purpose, presence, and deeper connection with themselves and the world. Under Pilar’s creative leadership, Oprah Daily has become a refuge for intentional living, infused with Oprah’s own ethos of transformation and balance. It’s a p...
Mark as Played
On this special episode on Speaking of Travel, we're joined by an editorial icon and storytelling powerhouse, Pilar Guzmán, Editorial Director of Oprah Daily. Pilar’s work is a beacon for those seeking purpose, presence, and deeper connection with themselves and the world. Under Pilar’s creative leadership, Oprah Daily has become a refuge for intentional living, infused with Oprah’s own ethos of transformation and balance. It’s a p...
Mark as Played
In this electrifying episode of Speaking of Travel, meet Alexandra Kinias, a trailblazer who’s shattering boundaries and redefining what it means to live boldly and age without limits. From breaking barriers as a mechanical engineer to making waves as a celebrated screenwriter and fearless women’s rights advocate, Alex’s journey is a masterclass in courage, creativity, and unshakable purpose. And she is igniting a movement. She’s a...
Mark as Played
Today’s episode is a story of courage, healing, and choosing joy after heartbreak. Abigail Carter, a writer and artist, lost her husband in the 9/11 attacks and spent years navigating grief. But when the noise of life grew too loud, she listened to a quiet voice inside that said: Go. Abby left behind the familiar and moved to a small château in the peaceful countryside of southwest France. There, surrounded by sunflowers and slow, ...
Mark as Played
Travel is for every family and this powerful new series proves it. On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we dive into Traveling the Spectrum, a groundbreaking new series that’s opening the world for families with loved ones on the autism spectrum. For far too long, travel felt impossible for these families. But now? The doors are wide open. Join us as we chat with Tommy Caamano and Peter Prokop, visionary producers and co-director...
Mark as Played
In this deeply nourishing episode, we welcome Angela Lightsey, the vibrant soul behind Tybee Wellness Retreats, where transformation and tranquility beautifully intertwine. Angela has created more than just a getaway. She’s built a sanctuary where women come to heal, grow, and reconnect with their truest selves amid the natural beauty of Tybee Island and beyond. Together, we dive into what really happens during a wellness retreat a...
Mark as Played
There’s something in the water in Brevard and we’re not just talking about the waterfalls (though there are plenty of those!). Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this sweet town sparkles with big charm, quirky wildlife (hello, white squirrels!), and the kind of hospitality that stays with you long after you leave. On this uplifting episode of Speaking of Travel, local legend Clark Lovelace, Executive Director of the ...
Mark as Played
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, award-winning filmmaker Brady Skye joins us to share the powerful story behind his new documentary, Beyond The Ruins, a film that doesn’t just challenge the way we travel, but invites us to reconsider whose stories we center and how we show up in the world. This is not a film about the past. It’s about the present. About connection. About listening. Through immersive storytelling, Brady brings...
Mark as Played
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we dive deep into the story of Asheville, NC, a community that met disaster with determination and came back stronger than ever. From the immediate aftermath of the hurricane to the long, resilient road to recovery, we celebrate the creativity, grit, and soul of the people who make this mountain town truly magical. As a proud Asheville local, I’ve seen how neighbors lift each other up, how s...
Mark as Played
Travel has a way of turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories and Brevard, North Carolina, is the kind of place where that magic happens every day. Tucked in the heart of the Land of Waterfalls, Brevard offers something for every curious traveler: lush forests to explore, world-class biking trails, charming shops and cafés, and an irresistible small-town vibe. Whether you’re chasing cascading waterfalls, wandering downto...
Mark as Played
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re diving into Panama, a destination that blends adventure, opportunity, and pure paradise. And who better to guide us than Melissa Darnay, an American entrepreneur who turned her dream of living abroad into reality. Melissa made the bold move to Panama and she hasn’t looked back since. Now, as the CEO of Choose Panama, she helps others do the same whether they’re looking to visit, invest, ...
Mark as Played
For Todd Lester, travel isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing the unexpected, and saying yes to adventure. A lifelong explorer at heart, Todd thrives on the thrill of stepping outside his comfort zone, meeting new people, and diving into experiences that challenge and inspire. His latest journey took him to Spain, where he joined Pueblo Inglés, an immersive volunteer program that connects nati...
Mark as Played
Guess who’s back? Richard "Ricky" Crawford, the inspiring host of Amazon Prime’s Leave No Trace TV! If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling with purpose, making a positive impact, and immersing yourself in cultures while preserving them, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Ricky is a powerhouse advocate for sustainable travel, conservation, and the power of community. He’s all about showing us how to see the world while protectin...
Mark as Played
On this episode of Speaking of Travel, we’re joined by Lara Downes, a true visionary in the world of music. More than a pianist, Lara is a cultural storyteller, an advocate for change, and a bridge between past and present. With a fearless approach to classical music, she breathes new life into forgotten voices, challenges conventions, and inspires a new generation of listeners. Lara’s work isn’t just about music. it’s about connec...
Mark as Played
Some dream of adventure. Others chase it one pedal stroke at a time. Meet Jacob Lemanski, the fearless explorer behind “How To Move The Stars,” a video podcast chronicling his extraordinary 38,000-mile ride across six continents. Facing grueling conditions, towering mountains, and moments of sheer exhaustion, Jacob kept going, fueled by curiosity, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit. His journey wasn’t just about the miles. Along...
Mark as Played
Some dream of adventure. Others chase it one pedal stroke at a time. Meet Jacob Lemanski, the fearless explorer behind “How To Move The Stars,” a video podcast chronicling his extraordinary 38,000-mile ride across six continents. Facing grueling conditions, towering mountains, and moments of sheer exhaustion, Jacob kept going, fueled by curiosity, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit. His journey wasn’t just about the miles. Along...
Mark as Played
Think about it. Where would we be without music? Without the arts? Music fuels our imagination, sparks emotions, and connects us across generations and cultures. Chamber music, in particular, is storytelling at its finest and creates an intimate conversation between instruments that speaks directly to the soul. And thanks to the Cleveland Chamber Music Society, we don’t have to travel to the great concert halls of Europe to experie...
Mark as Played
For many families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, travel has long felt out of reach. But that’s changing. Traveling the Spectrum is a groundbreaking new series proving that inclusive, autism-friendly travel isn’t just possible—it’s transformative. Destinations like Myrtle Beach, SC, are leading the way with sensory-friendly programs, specially trained businesses, and inclusive experiences, ensuring that every family has the...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    United States of Kennedy is a podcast about our cultural fascination with the Kennedy dynasty. Every week, hosts Lyra Smith and George Civeris go into one aspect of the Kennedy story.

    Stuff You Should Know

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

    Crime Junkie

    Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.