Want to know more? Let's Chat!

🎙️ In this episode

Bee sits down with Paul Gowder—a man who's been to Disney World 42 times, co-founded PowWows.com, and is basically the King of Culture Meets Theme Park. From live-streaming Native American powwows to sailing on 24 Disney cruises, Paul shares how intentional travel (and a deep appreciation for both tradition and imagination) can shape your life, your family, and even your business.

You’ll hear about:

• The origin story of PowWows.com and how it's changing cultural access for everyone
• Tips for attending your first powwow with respect and confidence
• The best ways to experience Disney (and why it’s not just for kids anymore)
• The truth about Disney cruises vs other cruise lines
• How online communities (like cruise Facebook groups!) can deepen your trip connections
• What paradise means when you build your business around family and travel

🧭 Mentioned in This Episode:

• PowWows.com
• What to Expect at Your First PowWow
• Find a PowWow Near You
• Kelly Gowder's Disney Travel Page
• Gowders Are On The Go

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Episode Summary:

This week’s guest is Dan Clouser — a full-time RVer, author, and golden retriever enthusiast who ditched the 9-to-5 to chase sunsets and stories from behind the wheel. Dan opens up about what inspired him and his wife to hit the road, how a 15-year-old golden named Euclid changed his life, and why freedom is the real definition of paradise. We dive into the power of reinvention, the beauty of unexpected detours, and how the road can lead you right back to yourself.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why Dan and his wife chose to live full-time in an RV (and how it all started right before COVID)
• The real story behind Dan’s beloved golden retriever, Euclid, and how he inspired a bestselling children’s book
• How Dan finds peace, creativity, and community in the nomadic life
• Travel hacks for future RVers — including the best (and wildest) places to camp
• Advice for anyone looking to shake things up and find freedom on their own terms

Beach Town Spotlight:

🏖️ Galveston, Texas — Dan shares why this laid-back coastal town was the perfect month-long stop.

Mentioned In This Episode:

• Dan Clouser’s Website
• The Journey of My Mother’s Son (memoir)
• The Beauty of a Diamond Through the Eyes of a Coach
• Pawprints On The Road (children’s book “co-authored” by Euclid the Golden)
• His upcoming fifth book, also written with Euclid

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Beachside Banter with Bee, Leighton Campbell drops by to talk about happiness, world travel, family dynamics, and how to pack smarter (hint: it involves letting go of more than just old clothes). As a devoted father, husband, entrepreneur, and author of Your Happiness Equation, Leighton shares wisdom from his adventures across the globe — including all Seven Wonders of the World — and opens up about how travel and intentional living can shift your mindset and help you build a more joyful life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• What inspired Leighton to visit all Seven Wonders of the World
• How travel shaped his personal and emotional growth post-divorce
• Practical travel hacks for real humans (including the “throw it away as you go” method)
• Why creating travel goals makes the journey more meaningful
• A sneak peek into Your Happiness Equation and the seven-question framework that could change your life
• Why some people bounce back faster from emotional setbacks — and how to give yourself grace if you don’t

About Our Guest:
Leighton Campbell is a world traveler, happiness researcher, entrepreneur, and author of the newly released Your Happiness Equation. He’s on a mission to help people measure, understand, and increase their happiness in simple, practical ways. When he's not writing or adventuring with his four kids and wife, you can find him leading workshops, sharing stories, or plotting his next Spanish-speaking country to visit.

Connect with Leighton:
• Website: https://yourhappinesseq.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourhappinesseq
• Take the free quiz: https://yourhappinesseq.com
• Buy the book: Available now on Amazon (Your Happiness Equation) 

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

In this episode of Beachside Banter with Bee, we mentally hop over to the Greek island of Crete with Rallou and Yiannis, the dynamic duo behind Porto Planet — a boutique travel agency curating immersive, locally-rooted experiences across Greece. From traditional wedding risotto to secret beaches you won’t find on Google Maps, they share how they’re redefining Greek hospitality for travelers craving more than just a vacation.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• Why Crete is an underrated gem that deserves at least 10 days to explore
• The difference between Greek islands like Santorini, Milos, and Zakynthos
• How Porto Planet creates intimate, custom cultural experiences with a family-first feel
• Traditional Greek dishes like dakos, antikristo, gamopilafo, and more
• Where to find the best beaches (hint: they’re not where Instagram says)
• What to expect when traveling through Greece — and why staying longer is better

Locations + Foods Highlighted:
• Crete – Largest island in Greece with major cultural, food, and beach diversity
• Santorini – Known for its iconic blue domes
• Milos & Zakynthos – Standout beaches: Kleftiko (Milos) and Navagio/Shipwreck Beach (Zakynthos)
• Chania, Elafonissi, Preveli Beach, Vai Beach, Balos, Agios Nikolaos – Beach hotspots in Crete
• Peloponnese – For wine, food, and history beyond Athens
• Athens – A must for the Acropolis and ancient culture
• Traditional Dishes – Dakos, antikristo (spit-roasted lamb), gamopilafo (wedding rice), fresh olive oil, local cheeses

Timestamps:
00:00 – Meet Rallou & Yiannis
The couple introduces Porto Planet and shares how their agency was inspired by Yiannis’ late father, a pioneer in Greece’s food and wine tours.

07:30 – Mamma Mia & Culinary Adventures
Their most popular tours include a Mamma Mia-inspired island hop and culinary experiences featuring olive oil, wine tastings, and farm-to-table dining.

12:00 – Greece’s Traditional Foods & Festivities
From wedding lamb cooked antikristo-style to gamopilafo and dakos, Bee learns about Crete’s most iconic dishes and when they’re served.

19:15 – How to Travel Greece the Right Way
Tips for flying into Greece, whether to ferry or fly to Crete, and why Athens should be a short stop — but Crete deserves the spotlight.

27:00 – The Real Greek Island Rundown
Yiannis breaks down the true scale of Crete and explains why one week won’t cut it. They also talk about underrated beaches like Elafonissi, Preveli, and Vai.

36:00 – Cultural Hospitality & Why Every Guest Becomes Family
Yiannis and Rallou share stories from past guests, including a card game showdown, Easter celebrations, and how Porto Planet makes every travel

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Episode Summary:
This week on Beachside Banter with Bee, we sit down with Pete A. Turner — an ex-Army spy turned veteran podcaster with over 2,000 episodes under his belt. Pete shares how his background in intelligence operations shaped his approach to storytelling, podcasting, and finding truth in conversations. From the dangerous streets of war zones to the chill vibes of palapa beach bars, Pete drops gems on how to show up, how to connect, and why Florida's beaches and food still win his heart.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• What it’s really like to go from spy work to storytelling
• Why Florida wins the beach wars — and the food wars too
• How to book high-profile podcast guests with confidence
• Why in-person podcasting builds deeper connections
• How to find magic in unscripted conversations
• What paradise means when life slows down

Locations + Food Mentioned:
• California Beaches – San Diego’s Dog Beach, Portuguese Beach
• Florida Beaches – Anna Maria Island (AMI), Fort Lauderdale (Las Olas area), Florida Keys
• Other Mentions – Cabo San Lucas (West Side), Leadville CO
• Food Spots & Styles – Florida palapa-style beach bars, shrimp, rum runners, local no-sign food joints

Timestamps:
00:00 – Meet Pete Turner
From spy life to podcasting legend, Pete shares his unconventional journey, including 10+ years of podcasting and how it all began.

09:00 – East Coast vs West Coast Beaches
Bee and Pete dive into the great beach debate: California or Florida? They share personal picks like Portuguese Beach and Las Olas.

14:00 – Beach Bars, Shrimp Plates & No-Sign Restaurants
Pete shares why he prefers small, local beach bars in Florida over polished resort experiences — and where to find the best (and cheapest) eats.

22:00 – Pete’s Spy Past & Dangerous Missions
He opens up about intense moments in Iraq, from bullets hitting walls to conversations mid-firefight, and why fear isn’t part of his everyday mindset.

30:00 – Podcasting on the Road
How Pete sets up in people’s homes, including a memorable trip to Leadville, CO with Tour de France rider Floyd Landis and a visit to a dispensary.

39:00 – Booking Big Guests & Staying Curious
Pete explains how he lands high-profile interviews and why he seeks out challenging conversations that push both host and listener to grow.

52:00 – What Does Paradise Mean to Pete?
Spoiler: naps, beaches, and curiosity. Pete shares what a perfect day looks like for him — and why it's all about ease, not flash.

About Our Guest:
Pete A. Turner is a former Army spy and the host of The Break It Down Show, a podcast with over 2,000 episodes that blends deep-dive storytelling, culture, and intelli

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Beachside Banter with Bee, we set sail (metaphorically, but with major wanderlust energy) with Bert terHart—a modern-day explorer, scientist, entrepreneur, and all-around adventurer. Bert has done the kind of things most people only dream about: he solo-sailed around the world non-stop, paddled 7,800 km across Canada from the Pacific to the Atlantic, and has spent over 50,000 miles on blue water adventures. Oh, and he also created software used by healthcare professionals across the globe. Casual.

We talk about what drives him to take on such extreme challenges, how his deep passion for oceanography and science has shaped his life, and how he bridges the gap between academic research and public understanding. Whether you're a traveler, dreamer, science nerd, or just someone in need of a little push to go after the "impossible," this episode is packed with inspiration.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why solo adventure can teach you more about yourself than a thousand textbooks.
• How Bert transitioned from oceanography to entrepreneurship.
• What citizen science is and why you should care.
• The emotional and mental toolkit needed for extreme expeditions.
• How to stay curious, creative, and committed to living a meaningful life.

About Our Guest:
Bert terHart is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, Explorer in Residence for the BC Historical Society, CEO of LeadBrain.ai, and founder of the Canadian Interactive Waterways Initiative. He’s also the author of Sir Salty Goes to Sea and a passionate advocate for environmental responsibility and ocean conservation. With advanced degrees in math, physics, and oceanography, Bert lives at the intersection of science, storytelling, and soul-expanding adventure.

His solo sailing and paddling adventures have earned national and international recognition, and his public speaking engagements inspire audiences of all ages to push past limits and explore boldly.

Timestamps:

00:20: Introducing Bert TerHart

06:03: Which Was Bert’s Favorite Place to Sail Through

06:10: How Amazing Alaska Is

09:30: Northern Lights and How Extraordinary They Are While Sailing

12:13: Does It Get Lonely In Deep Waters?

18:25: How Bert’s Experience in Science and Tech Helped Achieve His Sailing Dreams

26:20: What Makes a Journey Transformative?

29:40: What Has Been the Most Surprising Thing You Learned About Yourself During this Journey?

38:50: Does Being Alone Help with Building Connections?

44:12: Scorpios and Other Signs

45:30: Advice for Solo Travelers

49:10: Where Can Everyone Find Bert

51:23: What Does “Paradise” Mean to You?

Connect with Bert:

·         Website: htt

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Beachside Banter with Bee, we dive into the transformative power of "Showing Up" with bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and management consultant Marcy Axelrod. Marcy’s book, How We Choose to Show Up, has helped thousands of people deepen their connections, enhance their experiences, and bring more meaning into their lives. Drawing from over 20 years of research and experience in Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and the corporate world, Marcy shares powerful insights on how neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral economics can shape our daily choices and long-term success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What it really means to "Show Up" and why it’s a game-changer for your life and career.
• How Marcy’s research has transformed personal and professional growth for thousands.
• The science behind our decision-making and how we can harness it to live more fulfilling lives.
• The role of curiosity, intention, and self-connection in thriving.
• Why major corporations like HP, SAP, and Cisco have embraced Marcy’s insights for innovation and leadership.
• Practical steps to start Showing Up today!

About Our Guest:
Marcy Axelrod is a bestselling and award-winning author, a 2X TEDx speaker, and a recognized expert in human performance and business strategy. Her book, How We Choose to Show Up, is a #1 Bestseller and recipient of the prestigious Hayakawa book prize. With a background at Lehman Brothers and experience working with global tech giants, Marcy integrates cutting-edge research with real-world application to drive personal and organizational growth.

Her work has been featured in Forbes, Psychology Today, and The Marketing Journal, and has earned praise from professors at Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Columbia, and Cornell.

Timestamps:

00:20: Introducing Marcy Axelrod

02:51: What “How We Choose to Show Up” is Really About

14:40: How Do I Show Up Better for Myself & for Everyone Else?

25:20 What Inspired Marcy to Go Down this Route

34:20 Why We Have 2 Attention Systems and Why It’s a Big Deal

38:40 How We Can Find Marcy’s Book

41:35 What Does ‘Paradise’ Mean to Marcy

Connect with Marcy:

• Website: https://choosetoshowup.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name
• Book: How We Choose to Show Up 

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Matt Chambers never planned to fall in love with Latin America. As a self-described "typical American" from small-town West Virginia, he reluctantly took Spanish in college simply to graduate on time. But when his professor from Madrid pointed out his natural aptitude for the language, everything changed. After befriending Venezuelan students and making an impulsive decision "after about a half bottle of Johnny Walker," Matt found himself on a plane to Caracas in 2006—the first step in what would become an 18-year relationship with the continent.

What stands out most in Matt's story is how his connection to Latin America transformed his professional life. Despite initially having limited Spanish skills, he leveraged his cultural interest to build nearly $1 million in Latin American sales for his furniture business. This success wasn't just about speaking the language but understanding the people and cultures—a reminder that authentic connection and cultural immersion can open unexpected doors professionally.

After visiting dozens of countries across the region, Matt declares Brazil his absolute favorite. Unlike Colombia (which he also loves but notes has become increasingly dangerous), Brazil offers what he calls the perfect blend of "third-world fun and first-world hustle." For Americans considering international living, Matt shares extraordinary insights about how such a move can revolutionize retirement finances. He tells of a friend who moved to Medellín and now lives in a penthouse apartment while watching his investment accounts grow—something impossible had he remained in the United States. However, Matt cautions that Latin America isn't for everyone: "If you're a hustler, Latin America is not for you." The relaxed pace that many find appealing can feel stifling to naturally busy personalities.

Whether you're dreaming of international adventure, seeking financial strategies for retirement, or simply curious about life beyond U.S. borders, Matt's journey offers valuable wisdom earned through years of real experience. Follow his podcast on YouTube or Instagram at Matt Chambers Official to learn more about traveling, living, and doing business internationally.

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

The unexpected happened - Beachside Banter not only survived but thrived through Season One, and now we're back with even bigger plans for our beach-loving community! 

After relocating from St. Louis to Atlanta, I'm settling into temporary digs surrounded by construction (apologies for the occasional background noise in our episodes). This strategic move puts us closer to countless coastal destinations while we explore Georgia before choosing our permanent home. The upheaval has been worth it as we prepare to deliver more authentic beach content than ever before.

Season Two brings several exciting developments. We're launching a dedicated Patreon community where we'll share exclusive content, host live Q&A sessions, and dive deeper into the beach lifestyle you love. The Jetsetter's Closet boutique continues to grow, offering stylish travel attire for women heading to coastal destinations. Remember to use code BEACHSIDEBANTER for 20% off your first purchase! We're also designing custom merchandise specifically for our podcast listeners, expected to launch within a couple of months.

Our travel calendar is filling up quickly with confirmed trips to the Bahamas and Miches, Dominican Republic, where we'll explore the brand new Hilton property. For my birthday celebration, we're eyeing either Tortola or Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Additionally, I'll be embarking on solo adventures to discover hidden beach gems and bring back fresh perspectives to share with you all.

Have suggestions for topics you'd like us to cover or beaches you want us to explore? Drop into my DMs with your ideas - this community thrives on your input! Together, let's make Season Two an unforgettable journey of coastal discoveries and beachside wisdom. Stay engaged, stay curious, and above all, stay beachy!

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis

Want to know more? Let's Chat!

Have you ever wondered how the mystical energy of Hawaii could transform your life? Join us as we chat with Rachel Pomke, the inspiring director of the Kahuna Falls Retreat Center. Rachel shares her compelling shift from a life of activism to one of creating solutions through coaching and retreats. Her journey highlights the power of empowerment and transformation, not just for herself but for the facilitators, residents, and guests at her center. Dive into her narrative of nurturing positive change and learn about a client's remarkable path to self-confidence and fulfilling work.

Picture yourself surrounded by the enchanting landscapes of Hawaii — this is where Rachel's retreats find their home. Discover how the blend of mountains, oceans, and rainforests on the Big Island provides a unique grounding and clarity, believed by some to echo the ancient civilization of Lumeria. Rachel and I discuss how this setting is a catalyst for personal transformation and deeper connections with nature. Hear insights into the transformative power of coaching, helping prevent burnout and offering clarity on life's path amidst Hawaii's captivating aura.

Craving a taste of Hawaii beyond its scenery? Our conversation takes a flavorful turn as we explore the exquisite local cuisine that retreat guests indulge in. From savoring the freshest pineapples to embracing structured activities and relaxation, retreats offer a culturally rich alternative to traditional vacations. For those interested in leading such experiences, Rachel offers guidance through her Sacred Retreat Success program, ensuring impactful and respectful retreats. Embark on a journey toward inner peace and personal growth, with Rachel as your guide, providing mentorship in tuning into intuition amidst life's noise. Connect with her and explore the transformative possibilities awaiting you.

ABOUT MY GUEST:
Rachael Popky is a Sacred Empowerment Coach, Global Guide, and Director of The Center at Kahuna Falls Retreat Center in Hawai’i. Her work in empowerment and the healing arts is deeply rooted in her degree in Activism and Social Change. She believes that when we heal ourselves, we heal the world.

As we navigate these times of rapid transformation, she is committed to helping others birth new paradigms, do the inner work, and embrace the abundance that surrounds us. Her mission is to revolutionize the way we do business by fostering soul-driven, purpose-led, and ethically grounded practices that empower the collective. Rachael is dedicated to reminding us of the unity that connects us all and inspiring everyone to walk in beauty.

FIND Rachael here: FACEBOOK | SUBSTACK

Support the show

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

• Patreon: Life, Love & Travel
• Facebook: Life, Love & Travel
• Instagram: Life, Love & Travel
• TikTok: Life, Love & Travel
• Pinterest: Life, Love & Travel
• YouTube: Beachside Banter w/Bee
• LinkedIn: Bee Davis