Dreaming of your next big hiking challenge? In this episode, Crystal and Joe welcome Darrow Kirkpatrick — retired financial writer, seasoned adventurer, and author of Two Sticks, One Path. Darrow takes us along his trek across the Colorado Trail, sharing lessons that will inspire your own outdoor adventures, whether you’re planning a weekend hike or a multi-week expedition.

From practical packing strategies to mindset shifts that keep you moving when the trail gets tough, you’ll walk away with tools to make your next hike safer, lighter, and more rewarding. We’ll explore how to prepare your body for long-distance trekking, choose gear that works for you (not against you), and stay safe when wildlife or weather take an unexpected turn.

You’ll also hear the story behind a near-moose encounter, what the Colorado Trail taught Darrow about resilience, and how his “Gear of the Day” pick could change the way you pack forever.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to choose lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort or safety
• Training strategies that prepare you for elevation, distance, and endurance challenges
• Smart ways to handle unpredictable weather in the mountains
• Essential gear for water purification on the trail
• How to navigate wildlife encounters with confidence and caution
• Packing tips that help you avoid overloading while still being ready for anything
• Why mental preparation is just as important as physical conditioning for long hikes
• An “adventure-approved” Gear of the Day you might not see coming

You'll find Darrow's photos and more at TrailMemoir.com (specifically THIS LINK)

You'll find Darrow's new Gear of the Day picks at StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay

Ready to tell YOUR hiking story? You'll have five minutes AND appear in a future episode at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

Join our growing Facebook community of nearly FIFTY adventurers! We're sharing tips, photos, and more! Here's the link.

What do you get when you mix Vatican politics, mafia secrets, fine art forgery, and a dash of gelato? Award-winning mystery author Michael Balter joins us to share the real-life adventures that inspired his novel The Vatican Deal—a fast-paced thriller set against the backdrop of Rome, Florence, Naples, and Capri.

But this episode isn’t just about fiction. Michael brings stories from his own globetrotting life: negotiating with the Vatican, almost buying a centuries-old foundry, and getting swept up in the magic (and madness) of Italy’s cities. From sipping espresso in ancient coffee shops to exploring iconic landmarks like the Coliseum and Vatican, he gives us both the postcard highlights and the behind-the-scenes grit that most tourists miss.

Also in this episode:

• Why renting a boat in Capri should absolutely be on your bucket list

• The secret to tackling Italy’s world-famous museums without hitting a wall of overwhelm

• What to expect on Italy’s blazing-fast bullet trains

• Tech tips for navigating Italian culture (and why your smartphone might betray you)

• Gear of the Day: a must-have for your next trip through Italy’s cobblestone streets

Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just love a good mystery set in a killer location, this episode delivers wanderlust with a side of whodunit.

What happens when you mix millennia-old ruins, sun-drenched islands, and gourmet Greek cuisine? You get an unforgettable adventure—plus a podcast episode to match.

In this wanderlust-packed episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond are joined by a very special guest: Joe’s wife, Cheryl Saul-Sehy, a seasoned traveler with a keen eye for luxury, efficiency, and surprise gems you won't find on most itineraries. Together, they unpack their latest trip to Greece, spanning the historic streets of Athens, the Instagram-ready cliffs of Santorini, and the charming hospitality of Crete and Naxos.

• The Ancient Meets the Modern in Athens: From the Acropolis to upscale walking food tours, Joe, Crystal, and Cheryl break down why the cradle of Western civilization should still be on your bucket list (and your stomach’s).

• Santorini’s Stunning... and Packed: Is the sunset as romantic as it looks in the brochures? Yes. But also: elbows. Lots of elbows. Get tips on dodging crowds and soaking in the caldera views like a pro.

• Crete’s Hidden Depths: Explore more than beaches—like the poignant beauty of a preserved leper colony and the stunning Palace of Knossos. Plus, Cheryl’s unexpected emotional moment at a nearly forgotten site.

• Naxos, the Culinary Underdog: Spoiler alert—this island may have stolen the show. Learn why renting a car here is a must, how to find secret beaches, and where to eat your weight in feta.

• Logistical Gold: From scoring flights with credit card points to the perks (and limitations) of Disney-guided tours, this episode dishes out real traveler talk for making your next trip smoother—and more rewarding.

• Gear of the Day: Cheryl reveals the MVP of the trip, a simple travel essential that made all the difference in staying organized and secure abroad. You’ll want to add this to your packing list, stat.

This isn’t your average travel chat. It’s a blend of heartfelt storytelling, practical wisdom, and enough dreamy island imagery to get your suitcase halfway packed. Whether you're planning your first Greek adventure or reliving your last one, you’ll walk away with ideas, laughs, and a serious craving for baklava.

Have a favorite Greek island, hidden taverna, or ferry tip? Share it with the Stacking Adventures community—we’re always hungry for more (especially if it involves olives or octopus). 

Ready to take the scenic route? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond fire up the engine of nostalgia and hit the metaphorical road to celebrate America’s quirkiest, kitschiest, and most unforgettable roadside attractions.

Whether it's a giant ball of twine, a hidden sea beneath Tennessee, or that magical place you stumbled upon because someone in the car had to stop for a soda, this episode is a love letter to those wonderfully weird detours that turn a road trip into a full-blown adventure.

• Crystal’s Childhood Throwbacks: Hear about Robot World, water parks, and the family fun that turned Wisconsin Dells into the Disney World of the Midwest.

• Joe’s Deep Dive into the Earth: He recounts his visit to The Lost Sea, a wild underground lake you can boat across—because Tennessee doesn’t do boring.

• Listener Favorites: From Arkansas’ Monster Mart to Michigan’s Mystery Spot, Adventurers share their own must-see roadside wonders. Big shoutout to the community for their top-tier taste in roadside oddities!

• Is Buc-ee’s a National Treasure?: We make the case for the beaver-branded stop that’s part rest area, part theme park, and 100% essential for any road trip snack run.

• Gear of the Day: Travel might get weird, but today's gear of the day shouldn't. What is it? Crystal will guess...and so will you!

• Frugal Fun Along the Way: Budget-friendly stops, photo-worthy moments, and creative roadside memories that cost next to nothing but feel like a million bucks.

Whether you're planning your next great escape or just need a reason to crack open your dusty atlas, this episode reminds us that the journey is the destination. It’s a celebration of campy, curious, unforgettable Americana—from googly-eyed statues to underground boat rides and roadside beef jerky you maybe shouldn’t trust (but do anyway).

So buckle up, Adventurer. It’s time to rediscover the joy of pulling over on purpose.

Planning your first visit to Chicago? Don’t just snap a selfie at The Bean and call it a day—let Stacking Adventures hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy be your insider guides to one of America's most vibrant, layered, and delicious cities.

In this jam-packed episode, Crystal and Joe serve up their personal Top 5 experiences every first-time visitor to the Windy City has to try—plus a few lesser-known gems that even longtime locals might have missed. Think towering views from the not-Sears-anymore Tower, eye-opening museum visits, and—of course—deep-dish pizza debates that could make or break a friendship.

• 🎷 How to jazz up your nights: Chicago’s music scene is more than history—it’s still swinging.

• 🏛️ Museums worth the trip (and the ticket price): From science to surrealism, Crystal and Joe spotlight their go-to cultural stops.

• 🚢 Architecture on the water: Why skipping the Chicago River architectural tour is basically a rookie mistake.

• 🍕 The great pizza throwdown: Who serves the best deep-dish in town? Expect strong opinions.

• 🛍️ Mag Mile magic: Exploring iconic shopping, dining, and photo ops without blowing your budget.

• ✍️ Gear of the Day: The one travel item that helps you remember the trip (and not just through receipts in your coat pocket).

Plus, they share some of Chicago’s lesser-hyped treasures—from relaxing beaches to hidden eats and moments of Midwestern charm you won’t find in a guidebook.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or mapping out a longer adventure, this episode will leave you with a full Chicago to-do list, a hunger for hot dogs (with everything on it), and maybe even a new jazz playlist.

Looking for our cool, tested travel gear (including our NEW gear of the day pick)? Head to StackingAdventures.com/GoTD

Dreaming of the ultimate Disney World vacation—but not the sky-high price tag? This week on Stacking Adventures, we sit down with Kevin Payne from Family Money Adventure to help you create maximum magic without maxing out your wallet.

Kevin brings the goods:

• How to make the most of Genie+ without losing your mind (or your place in line)
•  
• The best ways to dodge long waits and still hit all your must-do rides
•  
• Pro tips for navigating the parks with kids and keeping your budget intact

From culinary gems hidden across all four parks to smart strategies for picking your Disney digs, Kevin shows you how to plan a stress-free, crowd-savvy, wallet-respecting trip. You'll also get the scoop on using apps to time your day right, gear that makes schlepping through the parks a little less sweaty, and why certain festivals or attractions might be worth planning your trip around.

We also explore:

• The ride strategy you didn’t know you needed
•  
• Where to find some of Disney’s best food (hint: it’s not always where the lines are)
•  
• Whether staying off-property is a budget win or a logistical headache
•  
• Tips for handling Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and the Magic Kingdom like a pro

Whether you’re a first-timer or practically have Mickey on speed dial, this episode is your ticket to fewer lines, better meals, and way more magic per dollar.

You'll find Kevin's awesome gear of the day (wait until you hear what it is!) at StackingAdventures.com/GOTD

Send us YOUR Walt Disney World story at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

Ever wonder how to mix castles, kilts, and a couple of sheep with your golf game? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, Doug takes us along for his journey through Scotland—complete with scenic views, unpredictable weather, questionable driving skills, and plenty of old-world charm.

From teeing off next to livestock to dodging crowds at iconic tourist spots, Doug shares how to blend thoughtful planning with room for spontaneity. You’ll hear about his golf adventures on windswept courses, discover why the sheep in Scotland may be tougher than some caddies, and get tips for navigating rental cars that assume you already know how to drive stick on the wrong side of the road.

We also cover:

• Why Google Flights paired with a good ol’ notebook might be your best travel-planning combo.

• When to trust the guidebook… and when to trust your gut.

• What tourist attractions are worth your time—and which ones might leave you saying, “That’s it?”

• A behind-the-scenes look at lodging, road-tripping, and eating your way through the Highlands.

• A father-son bonding moment you’ll want to bottle.

• How to find Scotch that’s smoother than your backswing.

Whether you’re planning your own Scottish getaway or just here for the ride, this episode is packed with real travel insights, a few cautionary tales, and inspiration for your next adventure.

Ready to time-travel without the flux capacitor? In this nostalgia-packed episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond hit the open road—metaphorically speaking—to explore some of America’s most iconic roadside landmarks, unforgettable signage, and quirky attractions that make every road trip an adventure worth taking.

Joining them is Americana enthusiast and Instagram-fueled author Rolando Pujol, who’s turned his childhood fascination with vintage neon and roadside kitsch into a full-fledged love letter to U.S. travel history. From giant peaches to lobsters as big as your car, from architectural oddities to places that scream "you can’t get this experience on Zoom," this episode is a celebration of the beautifully weird, wildly nostalgic, and unmistakably American.

• Road Signs that Raised Us: From Chicago’s White Sox signage to the Breezewood rest stop, Joe and Crystal reminisce about the places burned into our memory through pure roadside repetition.

• Rolando’s Retro Obsession: Discover how childhood drives through Sleepy Hollow turned into an Instagram account, which turned into a book deal. If you've ever pulled over to snap a photo of a fiberglass dinosaur, you'll feel seen.

• Where Quirky Meets Culinary: McDonald’s golden arches take a starring role—not just for fries but for its ever-evolving architecture. Plus, hear about Wild Blueberry Land in Maine, an oversized burrito haven in Arizona, and the cult-worthy Boll Weevil eatery.

• Signs of the Times: Learn why neon signs, repurposed buildings, and goofy roadside sculptures tell us more about a town than any chamber of commerce brochure ever could.

• The Enchanted Highway and Route 66: What happens when you mix art, open roads, and a passion for preservation? You get destinations that belong on every Adventurer's bucket list.

Beyond the entertainment value (and serious Instagram inspo), this episode celebrates how road trips connect us to history, creativity, and identity—one vintage sign or giant lobster at a time. You’ll laugh, you’ll map your next trip, and you might even dig out that old road atlas.

Got your own favorite roadside gem? Share it with the Adventurer community! Your quirky dive bar, haunting ghost town, or 20-foot gnome might just make someone else’s travel dreams come true.

Here's how to tell your story: StackingAdventures.com/MyStory. You'll have five whole minutes to share YOUR roadside attraction adventure!

Think theme parks are just for kids? Think again. We heard people who are VERY MUCH adults sharing their stories today...as we asked YOU for your theme park tales. On this episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond head to the gates of Cedar Point, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Holiday World, and beyond to relive the thrills, spills, and surprisingly refined etiquette of amusement park life. From world-class coasters to pro tips on navigating crowds (and even riding solo!), this one’s your summer soundtrack for theme park success.

Adventurers Randy and Nikki call in with nostalgic favorites—including Indiana’s under-the-radar Holiday World, home of the holy grail: free parking, drinks, sunscreen, and splashy water coasters. You’ll hear why this park might just beat the big boys on value and fun.

Joe and Crystal also debate which parks cater more to grown-up thrill seekers, unpack listener horror stories and etiquette fails, and reveal a travel MVP: a humble sweat towel that moonlights as a scarf, napkin, and workout essential.

Plus, are solo trips to Disneyland underrated? Spoiler: Yes. You’ll hear why going it alone can be a magic trick for skipping lines, recharging your social battery, and doing the park your way.

• The adult-friendly charm of Cedar Point vs. Busch Gardens

• Hidden gems like Holiday World (hello, free sunscreen!)

• Theme park etiquette that keeps the magic alive

• The thrill—and peace—of a solo Disneyland day

• Memories of the Gatekeeper, Magnum, and the dearly departed Witch’s Wheel

• Versatile travel gear you didn’t know you needed

• A call for your best stories from Belize and cruise adventures

Whether you’re a coaster connoisseur or just plotting your next getaway, this episode is packed with travel tales, practical tips, and all the community spirit Adventurers love.

Think cruises are just buffets and bingo? Think again. In this episode, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond hoist the anchor on all your cruising questions with travel agent Donna Pelletier (we call her the cruise director!)—who's seen it all from the Lido Deck to the lifeboats. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or still Googling “Do cruise ships have brakes?”, we’ve got you covered.

🛳️ Donna walks us through choosing the right cruise line and ship size (spoiler: not all floating cities are created equal). 🎟️ Learn the tricks to booking like a pro, from early bird perks to when upgrades are actually worth it. 🍹 We talk gratuities, drink packages, and what “all-inclusive” really means once you’re onboard. 🧳 Never lose your luggage again—thanks to packing strategies and must-have travel tech like AirTags. 🚢 Plus, tips on motion sickness, trip insurance, and excursions that don’t feel like cattle drives.

From insider tips to hilarious missteps (ours, mostly), this episode is your passport to smarter, smoother cruising.