In this engaging conversation, Kara Ricciardi shares her journey from Brooklyn to San Francisco, detailing her love for travel and food. She discusses how her experiences in over 80 countries have shaped her culinary perspective and inspired her to create Stretchy Pants Food Tours. Kara emphasizes the importance of local connections and unique experiences in food tourism, highlighting various tours offered in San Francisco. She also shares memorable culinary adventures and her plans for future tours, including a sports-themed food tour.

Chapters

00:00 Kara's Journey from Brooklyn to San Francisco

02:56 The Impact of Travel on Food and Culture

06:01 Memorable Culinary Experiences Around the World

09:07 The Birth of Stretchy Pants Food Tours

12:12 Creating Unique Food Tour Experiences

15:00 Exploring San Francisco's Culinary Landscape

17:55 Diverse Tour Offerings and Customization

20:55 Future Plans for Stretchy Pants Food Tours

In this engaging conversation, Natalie Compagno shares her insights on Seattle, a city she has come to love after moving from California. She describes the city's diverse cultural heritage, the impact of its famous landmarks, and the vibrant local scene, including music, sports, and food. Natalie highlights hidden gems, the best times to visit, and the unique neighborhoods that contribute to Seattle's character. The discussion also touches on the thriving drink culture and outdoor activities that make Seattle a remarkable place to live and visit.

Chapters

00:00 The Soul of Seattle

02:58 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

06:08 Best Times to Visit Seattle

08:57 Cultural Influences and Music Scene

11:57 Sports and Community Pride

14:47 Neighborhood Vibes and Unique Experiences

17:54 Culinary Delights and Food Culture

20:41 Drinks and Nightlife in Seattle

23:52 Outdoor Adventures and Nature

26:50 Moments that Define Home

 In this engaging conversation, Paula Tejeda shares her unique perspective on Chile, exploring its geography, culture, and cuisine. She discusses the deep-rooted family values, the significance of tea time, and the importance of community in Chilean society. The conversation also delves into the rich culinary traditions of Chile, highlighting the national dish of empanadas and the diverse flavors of Chilean cuisine. Paula emphasizes the connection between Chilean music and poetry, showcasing influential artists and genres. As they discuss travel, Paula provides insights into must-see destinations in Chile, including ecotourism opportunities. Finally, she reflects on her efforts to keep Chilean culture alive in San Francisco through her business, Chile Lindo, and her commitment to cultural representation.

Chapters

 00:00 Exploring Chile: A Unique Geography and Culture

04:02 Personal Connections: Growing Up Between Two Worlds

09:57 Cultural Values: Family, Community, and Traditions

13:43 Chilean Cuisine: Beyond Empanadas

20:49 The Role of Music in Chilean Culture

29:46 Traveling to Chile: Must-See Destinations

50:29 Keeping Chilean Culture Alive in San Francisco

 In this engaging conversation, Shannon Gomes interviews Kyle Durnan-Kerns, the creator of The Conscientious Traveler on Substack. K yle has spent years leading sustainable travel initiatives and writing about how to explore the world responsibly. But her passion project, Travel by Music, might be her most creative (and addictive) endeavor yet. Each week, she curates a 30-song playlist from a different country, using music as a gateway into culture. 

They explore the intersection of music and travel, discussing how music influences cultural understanding and the creative process behind curating playlists that represent different countries. Kyle shares insights into the challenges of researching music, the importance of authenticity in playlist creation, and the joy of discovering new sounds. The discussion also touches on the accessibility of music as a cultural medium and the personal experiences that shape their travel journeys.

Listen to Kyle's playlists on Spotify here. 

 Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to The Concientious Traveler

02:42 The Birth of Travel by Music

05:32 Guidelines for Playlists and Cultural Representation

07:40 Falling in Love with Music and Places

08:17 The Power of Music in Understanding Culture

11:05 Discovering New Music: The Research Process

16:11 Exploring Music from Different Countries

19:10 The Importance of Indigenous Music

20:04 Experiencing Live Music While Traveling

24:52 Travel Tips and Scams to Avoid

25:41 The Journey of a Tour Guide

28:17 Challenges in Curating Playlists

29:23 The Impact of Sharing Music

32:32 Looking Forward to Future Travels

In this episode of Mixtape Travels, host Shannon Gomes interviews Carolyn Schimick, an avid traveler and park ranger, about her recent two-month journey through Patagonia, Chile, and Argentina. Carolyn shares insights on planning the trip, the logistics of overlanding, and the contrasting experiences between the two countries. She also discusses her adventures in Chiloé Island, Tierra del Fuego, and the Atacama Desert, highlighting memorable moments and lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the beauty of travel, the importance of flexibility, and the joy of cultural exchanges.

In this engaging Mixtape Travels conversation, Bob Holmes, a world-renowned photographer, shares his journey from climbing enthusiast to professional photographer. He discusses the importance of storytelling in photography, the challenges of scouting locations, and the significance of building relationships with subjects. Bob reflects on the evolution of travel photography in the digital age and emphasizes the need for authenticity in capturing moments. He also highlights the impact of mass tourism and social media on travel destinations, offering valuable insights for aspiring photographers.

Chapters

 00:00 The Journey of a Photographer

07:07 Scouting and Capturing Moments

15:05 The Ethics of Travel Photography

23:28 The Art of Storytelling Through Photography

26:12 The Importance of Human Connections in Photography

28:38 Upcoming Travels and Responsible Tourism

31:30 The Journey Behind 'Passages' Book

33:49 Advice for Aspiring Travel Photographers

In this engaging conversation, Shannon and Renee explore the enchanting city of Rome, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about its rich history, hidden gems, and vibrant culture. They discuss the best ways to experience the city, from exploring lesser-known neighborhoods to indulging in authentic Italian cuisine. Renee emphasizes the importance of community and the unique lifestyle in Italy, contrasting it with the fast-paced life in the U.S. They also touch on responsible travel practices and the magic of visiting Rome during the off-peak season, making it a truly memorable experience.

Chapters

 00:00 First Impressions of Rome

03:00 Exploring Lesser-Known Spots

05:45 The Catacombs and Off the Beaten Path

08:58 Ideal Duration for a Roman Visit

11:54 Neighborhoods and Hidden Gems

14:54 Culinary Delights in Rome

17:37 Best Times to Visit Rome

19:00 Experiencing the Magic of Rome

20:19 Exploring Rome Responsibly

24:00 Cultural Awareness and Respect

26:00 Shopping and Fashion in Italy

27:21 Traveling Beyond Rome

28:58 The Allure of Italian Life

32:45 Community and Connection in Italy

33:53 The Soundtrack of Rome

In this episode of Mixtape Travels, Shannon chats with longtime Bay Area radio personality and Half Moon Bay local Marcus D. about what it’s really like to live in one of California’s most picturesque—and popular—coastal towns. From his ocean-view backyard in El Granada to his pro tips for surviving weekend traffic and dodging tourists, Marcus gives us the insider scoop on the magic (and the madness) of Half Moon Bay.

What We Cover

• How Marcus found himself living his dream life by the Pacific
• The joys and quirks of small-town coastal living
• Pro tips for visiting Half Moon Bay without getting stuck in traffic
• Can’t-miss local festivals like the Pumpkin Festival and Night of Lights
• His go-to Half Moon Bay eats, from killer barbecue to Middle Eastern lamb shanks
• What it’s like to sing karaoke at a British pub with an RV park out back (hint: very local, very fun)
• Favorite beaches, bike trails, and where to see sea lions
• The local surf culture—even if you’re not surfing
• How to visit responsibly and respectfully

Local Foodie Hot Spots Mentioned

• Dad’s Luncheonette
• Breakwater BBQ
• The Press, Pasta Moon, and San Benito House
• Jedi Wave Distillery (don’t miss the food!)
• CIAKAYA (Turkish comfort food heaven)
• Jupiter & Main (for the man who didn’t know he needed whiskey toothpicks)
• Fish Wife Sweets (cookies so good there’s a boat named after the baker)

Bonus Moments

• Marcus’ pro tip: Always travel perpendicular to Highway 1
• Why he compares Half Moon Bay to the Shire
• His karaoke playlist, including “Piano Man” and a surprise Antonio Banderas number
• Why living in Half Moon Bay is like Tahoe… but on the ocean

🧭 Planning a Visit?
Listen for Marcus’ tips on the best time to go, what days to avoid, and how to experience HMB like a local. Spoiler: come early, bring your patience, and respect the ocean.

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In this engaging conversation, Jen Belcher shares her deep love for Scotland, recounting her multiple trips and the profound connections she has made with the country. From the enchanting landscapes of the Highlands to the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, Jen discusses her experiences as a solo traveler, the cultural nuances she has encountered, and the friendships formed along the way. She offers valuable insights into planning itineraries, navigating challenges, and embracing the local culture, all while emphasizing the importance of safety and comfort for women traveling alone. Jen's passion for Scotland shines through as she reflects on the magic of her journeys and her aspirations for future travels.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Scotland: A Love Affair

02:44 The First Trip: Discovering Edinburgh and the Highlands

05:21 The Second Trip: Exploring Glasgow and Living Like a Local

08:07 The Third Trip: Adventures in Bruges and York

10:28 Travel Challenges and Lessons Learned

14:46 Exploring Scotland: A Solo Traveler's Journey

17:11 Finding Connection: Scotland and West Virginia

20:05 The Magic of Moments: A Memorable Experience

21:05 Safety in Solo Travel: A Woman's Perspective

22:17 Scenic Highlights: The Best of Scotland

24:58 Dining Alone: Embracing Solo Meals

26:19 Connecting with Fellow Travelers

28:09 Advice for Aspiring Solo Travelers

30:06 Packing Tips for Scotland

32:48 Future Travels: Exploring More of Scotland

In this episode of Mixtape Travels, host Shannon Gomes speaks with Janice Koh, a pharmacist and travel enthusiast from Australia. Janice shares her insights on travel, emphasizing the importance of personal growth through exploration. They discuss various destinations in Australia, including underrated spots, the Great Barrier Reef, and the best times to visit. Janice also highlights the unique Australian food culture, wildlife encounters, and common misconceptions about Australia. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on the Australian travel culture and the encouragement of travel among young Australians.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Travel and Personal Growth

01:30 Exploring Australia: A Traveler's Perspective

08:07 Underrated Destinations in Australia

10:40 Experiencing the Great Barrier Reef

12:33 Best Times to Visit Australia

16:10 Unexpected Travel Experiences

18:33 The Diversity of Australian Landscapes

19:54 Culinary Delights: Australian Food Culture

25:47 Wildlife Encounters in Australia

28:11 Common Misconceptions About Australia

30:01 The Australian Travel Culture

34:53 Encouraging Travel Among Young Americans