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

April 19, 2025 52 mins
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...
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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...
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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, ...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Imagine an Italy where every moment is meant to be truly lived and where you can cycle or hike through golden vineyards, linger over a farm-fresh meal, and connect deeply with the land and its people. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s a way of life. Joining us is Heather Dowd, co-founder of Tourissimo, a company celebrating 10 years of crafting immersive cycling and hiking tours across Italy. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a...
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Ready to travel smarter and leave a positive impact? The Speaking of Travel and Leave No Trace series continues with Richard Crawford, host of the exceptionally popular Leave No Trace TV, and the filmmaker and director of the show, Ben Alcott. They are in Australia wrapping up Season Two! We dive into why curiosity, adaptability, and sustainability are shaping the future of travel and why sustainable travel matters now more than ev...
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Ever wondered about the invisible forces shaping your travel adventures? Microbes, the tiny companions of every journey, are everywhere, transforming the air we breathe, the food we savor, and even how we experience the world. These remarkable organisms adapt to new environments, boost our immunity, and weave us into the ecosystems and cultures we explore. Joining us is Dr. Melissa Booth, a microbiologist, sustainability scientist,...
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Get ready to embark on an inspiring, magical journey of music, culture, and connection and travel back to 1995 to explore the remarkable story of LEAF Global Arts, a trailblazing organization whose mission is to connect cultures, preserve traditions, and cultivate global understanding through music, arts education, and immersive experiences. Jennifer Pickering and Leigh Maher share how their passion has co-created over 50 unforgett...
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Lew Bleiweis is President and CEO of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, and is a true trailblazer at the helm of one of the most dynamic airports in the region. From overseeing record-breaking passenger growth to navigating the unprecedented challenges of natural disasters like Helene, Lew has seen it all, and then some. He shares the highs and lows of 2024, including exciting new air service routes, cutting-edge inf...
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Did you know the Great Smoky Mountains are within a day's drive of half the U.S. population? While these misty peaks and ancient forests are a national treasure, they are also fragile. Smoky Mountain Host of NC (Visit Smokies) helps protect this region's natural beauty, with its Visitor Center serving as a welcoming gateway. It connects travelers with historic downtowns, snd vibrant arts, fostering connections to preserve the Smoki...
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Award-winning filmmakers, storytellers, and fearless globe-trotters John Alexander and JC Guest bring their passion, creativity, and adventurous spirit to Speaking of Travel. Known for powerful, heartwarming films like “Little Satchmo,” a PBS sensation that touched audiences worldwide, and “This Is Love,” John and JC have redefined family life, like packing strollers, diapers, and cameras while exploring the world. From visiting ei...
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Join Speaking of Travel for this classic 2024 rerun show with Liz Galloway. Liz is a dynamic force of nature, an adventurer, storyteller, and passionate creator of meaningful experiences through transformation. With over 20 years of expertise spanning international travel, wellness, spa, and business development, Liz has carved a unique path that blends adventure, purpose, and human connection. From scaling rugged peaks to immersin...
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Travel is more than an adventure. It’s a commitment to leaving a positive mark on the world. Richard Crawford, the charismatic host of Amazon Prime’s “Leave No Trace TV,” returns with stories that blend wanderlust with purpose. Dive into sneak peeks of Season Two’s breathtaking locations, hear about the communities shaping sustainable tourism, and gather practical tips to travel responsibly. Richard’s heartfelt tales remind us that...
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Meet James Hammond, world explorer, podcast host, and the ultimate storyteller behind the “Winging It” travel podcast. James blends his storytelling talents with his passion for connecting with people and sharing their stories. He is living the dream, turning his love for adventure into a globe-trotting odyssey that’s taken him across 70 countries and counting. From interrailing through Europe to hiking Nepal’s breathtaking trails,...
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