The Travel Wins

Ed Soares is my guest today. Ed is the CEO of LFA (Legacy Fighting Alliance). LFA is a fast growing Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotion based in Southern California. He also a manager of MMA fighters and started the Blackhouse MMA gym operations. As a husband and father of two daughters, Ed has to balance home life and business while traveling approximately 120 days a year.
Ed and I chatted about the current lockdown situation we all facing and how it has affected his scheduled MMA events. We also discussed how travel has gotten better with the usage of technology and some of the airport programs available now.

ABOUT
LFA gives rising stars and top contenders the opportunity to prove their talent to fans and leaders in the industry. Soares has been involved in the mixed martial arts industry since 1998, with the apparel line called Sinister Brand. Sinister became a sponsor of MMA fighters. Later, Soares co-founded his management company Tough Media Corp and his MMA gym Black House MMA, which have guided and facilitated the careers of some of the most legendary fighters in the sport. In 2017, Soares led the merger of RFA and Legacy FC that created LFA.

CAREER
He is the former owner of the clothing company Sinister Brand, and is a business manager for approximately 20 MMA fighters, including former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Lyoto Machida, former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva, former UFC Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo, former WEC Middleweight Champion Paulo Filho, former UFC Heavyweight title-contender Pedro Rizzo, former UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira, his twin brother UFC Light-Heavyweight Antônio Rogério Nogueira, former StrikeForce Light-Heavyweight Champion Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante, He also often serves as a translator for his fighters in post-fight interviews.
Additionally, Soares is co-founder of the Black House MMA fighting team, where many of his fighters train. As he is the manager for several of the highest profile fighters in mixed martial arts, he is currently considered one of the most influential managers in the sport.

Corinne Quiggle is a true connoisseur of both sandy shores and exhilarating beach volleyball matches as a professional beach volleyball player. As a highly accomplished professional beach volleyball player, Corinne has traversed countless miles, leaving her footprints on the sands of both domestic and international destinations.

“I ended up going camel riding in China one time because we finished the tournament earlier than expected”


Our conversation delves into the very heartbeat of the upcoming volleyball season, examining its current state amidst the ever-evolving circumstances shaped by the relentless Covid-19 lockdown. Corinne, drawing from her vast experiences, imparts her invaluable insights on the subject. Through her words, we gain a deeper understanding of the potential implications the pandemic may have on the highly anticipated season.
However, our dialogue extends far beyond the confines of sports, exploring the profound passion that fuels Corinne's love for travel. She beautifully articulates how her career as a professional volleyball player acts as an extraordinary blessing, granting her the privilege to immerse herself in the rich tapestry of diverse countries and their captivating cultures. With each journey, Corinne's horizons expand, allowing her to forge indelible connections with the people she encounters along the way.
So sit back, relax, and prepare to embark on an awe-inspiring voyage of words and experiences, guided by the remarkable Corinne Quiggle.

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Corinne Quiggle is my guest today. A professional beach volleyball player, Corinne has already traveled extensively around the states and internationally. We talk about the current status of the upcoming volleyball season and how the Covid19 lockdown could potentially affect the season.
She talks about her love of travel and how playing professional volleyball is a blessing to see so many countries and their cultures.

“I ended up going camel riding in China one time because we finished the tournament earlier than expected”

Available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Castbox, Overcast, Breaker, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and Spotify.

Intro song “Road Trip” by Robin Tricker

"Navigating the World in Darkness and Light: A Conversation with Paralympic Champion Lex Gillette"
In a captivating episode of our business travel podcast, I had the incredible honor of interviewing Elexis "Lex" Gillette, a beacon of determination and inspiration in the world of Paralympic sports. Hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, and now pursuing his dreams in Chula Vista, California, Lex's journey transcends borders and challenges.
Diving into the conversation, we explored the remarkable life of Lex, a Paralympic athlete who competes fearlessly in T11 (track) and F11 (field) events, proudly representing the United States on the global stage. But Lex's travels aren't confined to the realm of sports; he also embarks on journeys that fulfill his role as a motivational speaker, captivating audiences with his compelling story.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of airports, Lex shared his unique perspective on traversing the world as a visually impaired traveler. We delved into his strategies for maneuvering through the intricate labyrinth of terminals and navigating the often bewildering landscape of services. From navigating security checkpoints with precision to finding solace in the little pockets of comfort, Lex's insights shed light on a side of travel seldom explored.
As the world grappled with the upheavals brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we couldn't help but discuss the potential impact on Lex's unwavering quest for a Paralympic gold medal. The pandemic's shadow cast uncertainty on even the most steadfast of dreams, and we pondered the ways in which Lex's resilience would shine through these trying times.
With the spotlight firmly fixed on the horizon, Lex shared his anticipation for the Japan 2021 Paralympics, a stage where his determination and skill would undoubtedly dazzle. And if you're seeking a speaker who can ignite motivation and inspire change, Lex's website stands as a testament to his transformative ability to connect with audiences.
In this episode, we traversed the world through Lex's eyes, discovering the courage that propels him forward and the challenges that shape his remarkable journey. So, join us as we uncover the depths of Lex Gillette's travels, finding light in the midst of darkness and inspiration in every step he takes.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Lex Gillette is my guest today. Elexis "Lex" Gillette is a blind Paralympic athlete originally from Raleigh, North Carolina and now training in Chula Vista, California. Lex competes in T11 (track) and F11 (field) events for the United States.
I was excited to speak with Lex about his travels around the world for track and field as well as his travels for his speaking engagements. Obviously he has a different perspective from most business travelers. We discussed how he gets around the airports and what he likes and dislikes about the service at airports.
We also discussed the possibilities the COVID 19 lockdown could have on him achieving his Paralympic gold medal quest. Make sure to look for him in the Japan 2021 Paralympics and if you need a motivational speaker for an event visit his website for more information.

Available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Castbox, Overcast, Breaker, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and Spotify.

Intro song “Road Trip” by Robin Tricker

"Skating Through Time Zones: A Candid Chat with Todd Eldredge on Navigating World Championships and Jet Lag"

In an episode that's as thrilling as a perfectly executed triple axel, I had the honor of conversing with Todd Eldredge—world-renowned figure skater, three-time Olympian, and Hall of Fame inductee. Todd's dazzling career on ice is akin to a tale scripted by the gods of sport: a chronicle of perseverance, talent, and, of course, extensive travel.

This wasn't merely a chat about what it's like to be a supernova in the constellation of figure skating; it was a deep-dive into the complexities of life on the move. From transcontinental flights to make-or-break competitions, to relocating across state lines just to keep the alchemy with his coach alive, Todd shared stories that were as compelling as his performances.

One of the episode's high points was when Todd unveiled his battle strategies against the ever-daunting jet lag. Imagine arriving in a time zone diametrically opposite to your internal body clock and then executing a sequence of flawlessly intricate moves—no room for mistakes. Sounds mind-bending, doesn't it? Todd spoke candidly about the tactical adaptations he had to make in order to perform at the pinnacle of this scintillating sport, all while wrestling with the travel-induced disorientations.

Times have changed, and Todd now imparts his wisdom to the next generation as a coach. He offered fascinating insights into how the skating landscape has evolved, including the technological advancements in skating equipment. What once was leather and laces has now metamorphosed into scientifically engineered apparatuses that promise higher torque and safer landings.

If there's a silver lining to be found during the Covid-19 pandemic, it's the golden opportunity to have such a far-reaching dialogue with Todd Eldredge. Both of us found ourselves momentarily grounded from our usual schedules, making this rendezvous possible.

Should your wanderlust lead you to the sun-kissed locales of Irvine, California, do yourself a favor and drop by the Great Park Ice Rink. Who knows? You might just find yourself entranced by the artistry on ice, perhaps even lucky enough to snag a lesson from this luminary of figure skating.

Prepare to be enchanted, enthralled, and inspired as you listen to this episode, a masterclass in defying odds, both on the ice and in the skies.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Todd Eldredge is my guest today. Todd’s career as a figure skater is storied and decorated as a world champion, 3 time Olympian and Hall of Fame inductee. He has traveled the world for ice skating, including moving several times to different states to work with his coach. We have a great chat about his travels in his competitive days and how much different the times are now for the kids he coaches today. We even talk about some of the differences in current ice skating equipment.
I really enjoyed his discussion about jet lag and trying to get ready to prepare at the highest level of figure skating while adjusting his body clock.
I am thankful for the time he shared with me while we are both out of work during the Covid-19 lockdown. If you get a chance to visit Irvine, California make sure to stop by the Great Park Ice Rink and say hi to him…..or even take a lesson from a world champion.

Available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Castbox, Overcast, Breaker, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and Spotify.

Intro song “Road Trip” by Robin Tricker

Michelle Floyd is my guest today. Michelle has a storied career as a softball pitcher in high school, college and professionally. She played professionally in Italy after her career at the University of Arizona as well as playing for the Venezuela national team. She is now transitioning to her career after softball by working for the Atlanta Braves. Michelle was great in sharing her travel stories and her outlook on the future.

“It really took, like I enjoyed college and I enjoyed travel ball, it took me moving to Italy to really find how much fun softball could be again”

Available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Castbox, Overcast, Breaker, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and Spotify.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Michelle Floyd is my guest today. Michelle has a storied career as a softball pitcher in high school, college and professionally. She played professionally in Italy after her career at the University of Arizona as well as playing for the Venezuela national team. She is now transitioning to her career after softball by working for the Atlanta Braves. Michelle was great in sharing her travel stories and her outlook on the future.

“It really took, like I enjoyed college and I enjoyed travel ball, it took me moving to Italy to really find how much fun softball could be again”

Available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Castbox, Overcast, Breaker, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and Spotify.

Josie Stevens is the wife, manager and traveling partner of her GRAMMY award winning husband guitarist Steve Stevens. After having Steve on the podcast I thought it would be great to speak with the other half of the team.

“I just love people in general. I love just chatting and hearing what people have to say. I feel that’s my favorite thing about travel”

I hadn’t spoken with the spouse of a business traveler yet and Josie was great. We spoke about her love of travel, her favorite places and why and other random topics including the newly in place shelter at home order we are all dealing with now. Make sure to listen about “squeaky” boobs when she travels to higher altitudes.

ABOUT
Josie Stevens is a model, stylist, reality TV personality, host & fashion designer married to rock guitarist Steve Stevens. She starred in the 2010 reality TV show Married to Rock alongside her husband and others.
Chicago-born Josie has been on numerous magazine covers, and has posed for Playboy, sat for a variety of "stylist-up" artists and modeled for video game characters.
She has a successful career as a celebrity fashion stylist and hair and make-up artist, working on Cinemax film projects, commercials, TV shows & album covers. Some of her current & previous clients include:
•Steve Stevens
•Deadland Ritual
•Duff Mckagen's Loaded
•In this Moment
•Opiate for the Masses
•Blessed by a Broken Heart
•photographer Hristo Shindov
•Playboy Playmates
•Showtime/Cinemax.
Josie married famed guitarist Steve Stevens in December 2008, after six years of dating, and manages Steve's career, as well as doing hair, make-up & wardrobe for all of his tours and appearances. She also designs his line of merchandise.
Josie has a popular line of clothing, costumes, lingerie & rave wear, "Josie Loves J Valentine". The line has proved to be a celeb favorite worn by stars like Nicki Minaj, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Paris Hilton, Bella Thorn, Alessandra Ambrosia, Gwen Stefani, Miley Cyrus, Fergie, Raja Gemini, Laura Croft, Jenna Jameson & Bridget Marquardt.
Her line called Josie Loves J Valentine was released in 2011. A launch party was held on September 7 where an all-star band performed (including her husband Steve Stevens & Billy Idol). A variety of Reality Stars, Musicians & Playmates walked in her fashion show.
In 2012, she expanded her brand with a line of sleepwear with the world’s most popular footed pajama company, Jumpin Jammerz.
In 2016, Josie expanded her design portfolio to include interior design. Most notably, she designed the West Hollywood offices of celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Dean Manus. LA Weekly Magazine declared the interior design to be "the hippest doctors office" in their "Best of LA Culture: Services with Something Special" Top 10 list on March 26th, 2019.

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