Amanda Ervin and Jimmy Lierow are on a mission to represent the marginalized plus-size community in the travel industry. They’re also passionate about encouraging these individuals that they, too, can travel — regardless of their physical size.  

The charismatic couple met in 2014 and quickly discovered a shared passion for travel. (They even embarked on an international cruise together after dating for just three months). While still working full-jobs outside of the travel industry, they launched YouTube channel Chubby and Away, which chronicles their extensive trips around the world. One such trip is a yearlong, adventure-packed stint in Asia — a place they have lovingly nicknamed “The Land of Tiny People.” 

The duo also hosts a podcast called The PudgeCast, which offers travel tips and interviews with other travelers, all with an emphasis on plus-size travel. Last but not least, they recently opened their own travel agency, The Chubby & Away Travel Agency, in December 2019. 

In this Humans of Travel episode, Ervin and Lierow explain that they prioritize inclusivity as well as good health — and want people to feel comfortable in their own skin. The two also offer tips on how the industry can do better in serving the plus-size travel segment, and share examples of a few notable suppliers that are already demonstrating great service.   

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE  

Chubby and Away: www.chubbyandaway.com 

Chubby and Away YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/chubbyandaway

The PudgeCast: www.chubbyandaway.com/podcast 

Chubby & Away Travel Agency: www.chubbyandaway.com/travelagency 

Chubby and Away Facebook: www.facebook.com/chubbyandaway 

Chubby and Away Instagram: www.instagram.com/chubbyandaway

ABOUT YOUR HOST 

Valerie Chen is the Deputy Digital Editor of TravelAge West, a print and online magazine for travel advisors based in the Western U.S.   

TravelAge West also produces national trade publications Explorer and Family Getaways, as well as events including Future Leaders in Travel Retreat, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala and the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. 

ABOUT THE SHOW 

TravelAge West’s new podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the experiences — the highs and the lows — that make them human. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.