In this episode, Dr. Courtney Downes speaks with Dr. Robbie Harriford, founder of Modern Traditions Travel, about the importance of cultural awareness in healthcare. They discuss how understanding diverse backgrounds can improve patient care and the unique travel experiences offered to healthcare professionals to immerse themselves in different cultures. The conversation highlights the need for empathy and trust in patient-provider relationships and outlines future plans for expanding travel opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

- Cultural awareness is crucial for effective patient care.

- Diversity in healthcare settings can enhance understanding and treatment.

- Experiential learning through travel can improve cultural competence.

- Building trust with patients leads to better health outcomes.

- Healthcare providers need to listen to their patients' experiences.

- Travel experiences can foster empathy among healthcare professionals.

- Modern Traditions Travel aims to connect healthcare providers with diverse cultures.

- Cultural immersion can help providers understand social determinants of health.

- The importance of community and collaboration in healthcare.

- Future trips will expand to various global locations.

Timestamps:

02:51 The Importance of Cultural Competence

05:51 Modern Traditions Travel: A New Approach

09:03 Experiential Learning Through Travel

12:02 Building Trust and Empathy in Patient Care

14:54 Future Plans for Modern Traditions Travel

Follow Dr. Robbie Harriford here:

⁠https://www.instagram.com/modern_traditions_travel⁠

⁠https://www.moderntraditionstravel.com/⁠

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Prescription to Travel MD- Doctor’s Lounge⁠⁠⁠⁠

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In this episode of the Prescription to Travel MD podcast, Dr. Courtney Downes shares insights on how to enjoy affordable luxury travel without the need for multiple credit cards. She discusses the importance of maximizing existing points, leveraging travel resources, and being flexible with travel plans. The episode emphasizes that travel can be a way to reset and recharge, and offers practical tips for making the most of travel experiences while staying within budget.

Key Takeaways:

- Travel hacking can significantly reduce travel costs.

- Doctors can earn points through regular expenses.

- Consolidating points with partners can maximize value.

- Transferring points to airlines can unlock better deals.

- Utilizing annual credits on existing cards is essential.

- Mistake fares and flash sales can lead to huge savings.

- Flexibility in travel dates can enhance affordability.

- Exploring lesser-known destinations can provide luxury for less.

- Vacation rentals can offer unique and spacious accommodations.

- Travel is a way to reset and recharge, not just a luxury.

Timestamps:

(01:48) Empowering Travel: The Journey Begins

(05:25) Leveraging Existing Resources: Making Points Work

(10:42 Finding Deals: Mistake Fares and Flash Sales

(20:15) Reset and Recharge: The Importance of Travel

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

⁠⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD⁠⁠

⁠⁠Prescription to Travel MD- Doctor’s Lounge⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/3717624291786190⁠

Sign up for the Newsletter:

⁠⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/contact

In this episode of the Prescription to Travel MD podcast, Dr. Courtney Downes and Dr. Stephanie Jones discuss essential travel tips, particularly for families planning trips during the holiday season. They emphasize the importance of planning ahead, being flexible with travel arrangements, and maximizing points for bookings.

Dr. Stephanie shares her experiences booking a trip to Japan, including accommodations and travel strategies for families. They also touch on the challenges of traveling with kids and provide recommendations for affordable, family-friendly accommodations, especially in Japan. The conversation concludes with insights on making travel enjoyable for families and the benefits of being open to spontaneous travel opportunities!

Key Takeaways:

- Holiday travel planning should start early, especially for peak times.

- Using points and miles can significantly reduce travel costs.

- Traveling with kids requires careful planning and organization.

- Experiences in different cultures can teach valuable lessons to children.

 - Balancing work and family life is an ongoing challenge for many parents.

- Traveling during the holidays can be a unique and festive experience.

- Cultural experiences can help children develop empathy and understanding.

- Language barriers can be navigated with kindness and gestures.

- Traveling can create lasting memories and core experiences for children.

- Planning ahead can alleviate stress during family trips. Planning ahead is crucial for holiday travel.

- Flexibility with location and departure is key.

- Booking backup accommodations can save your trip.

- Maximizing points can lead to significant savings.

- Traveling with kids requires careful planning.

- Affordable family accommodations are available in Japan.

- Consider local food options when traveling with children.

- Travel roulette can lead to unexpected adventures.

- Engaging tour guides can enhance family travel experiences.

- Traveling to nearby countries can minimize jet lag.

Timestamps:

03:09 The Journey of a Travel Agent

06:01 Balancing Work and Family Travel

09:01Experiences from Southeast Asia

12:01 Navigating Travel Challenges with Kids

15:05 Cultural Experiences and Language Barriers

18:11 Traveling During the Holidays

20:57 Using Points for Travel Savings

22:19 Travel Planning Tips for the Holidays

30:03 Maximizing Points for Family Travel

35:57 Affordable Family Accommodations in Japan

42:09 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Recommendations

Find Dr. Stephanie Jones here:

https://www.instagram.com/joyisnotacrumb?igsh=aDNzNjZjdDlxeWlh

https://www.foratravel.com/advisor/stephanie-jones-1

Email: [email protected]

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

⁠⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD⁠⁠

⁠⁠Prescription to Travel MD- Doctor’s Lounge⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/3717624291786190⁠

Sign up for the Newsletter:

⁠⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/contact

In this episode of Prescription to Travel MD, Dr. Courtney Downes dives into the common pitfalls of travel hacking and shares practical, no-nonsense tips to help you make the most of your travel rewards. From managing credit cards like a pro to maximizing points, miles, and travel perks, Dr. Downes breaks it all down in an easy, actionable way. Discover how a little planning and organization can turn your travel game from overwhelming to effortless—without losing the fun along the way. Tune in and start hacking your way to your next dream destination!

Key Takeaways:

- Travel hacking can feel overwhelming but is manageable.

- Opening too many credit cards can lead to financial issues.

- Focus on one to two credit cards that align with travel goals.

- Pay off credit card balances in full to avoid high interest.

- Points and miles can devalue over time; use them wisely.

- Plan ahead for award flights and hotels to ensure availability.

- Transfer points only when you are ready to book.

- Track travel credits to maximize benefits and avoid waste.

- Check for automatic elite status perks with credit cards.

- Travel hacking should enhance your travel experience, not complicate it.

Timestamps:

01:05 Introduction to Travel Hacking Pitfalls

02:53 Managing Credit Cards Wisely

06:13 Understanding Points and Miles Value

08:53 Maximizing Travel Credit Card Benefits

12:07 Enjoying the Travel Hacking Journey

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/⁠

⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD⁠

⁠Prescription to Travel MD- Doctor’s Lounge⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/3717624291786190

Sign up for the Newsletter:

⁠https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/contact

In this episode of the Prescription to Travel MD podcast, Dr. Naomi Lawrence-Reid shares her transformative journey from a pediatrician to an entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of financial freedom and creating a fulfilling life outside of traditional medicine. She discusses the challenges faced by physicians in the healthcare system, her transition to per diem and locum work, and the various opportunities available for doctors to explore different career paths. Dr. Naomi also highlights her passion for travel and how she has managed to incorporate it into her life while building a successful career. In this conversation. She emphasizes the importance of negotiating compensation, exploring diverse opportunities beyond clinical medicine, and understanding the financial realities of medical training.

Dr. Lawrence-Reid encourages physicians to seek permission to explore new paths and highlights the potential for financial independence through expert witness work and smart travel strategies.

Key Takeaways:

- Dr. Naomi Lawrence-Reid transitioned from a pediatrician to an entrepreneur.

- Physicians often feel stuck in traditional roles due to lack of information.

- There are many alternative career paths for physicians beyond clinical medicine.

- Traveling can be integrated into a physician's lifestyle with the right planning.

- Understanding financial aspects like health insurance and retirement is crucial for physicians.

- Doctors can explore non-clinical roles such as medical writing and expert witness work.

- Creating a life outside of traditional medicine is possible and rewarding.

- Knowing what you don't want is as important as knowing what you do want.

- The healthcare system often undervalues the contributions of physicians. Traveling has enriched my life and connections.

- Expert witness work can be lucrative while traveling.

- Physicians often undervalue their expertise and worth.

- Transparency about compensation is crucial in medicine.

- Financial realities of medical training can be daunting.

- You have the power to create your own opportunities.

Timestamps:

01:25 Introduction to Travel and Financial Freedom

05:05 The Broken Chair: A Symbol of Physician Struggles

13:04 Doctoring Differently: Exploring New Opportunities

18:31 Creating a Flexible and Lucrative Career

24:06 Favorite Travel Destinations and Experiences

29:39 The Joy of Travel and Connection

35:34 Understanding the Value of Your Expertise

41:06 Permission to Explore New Paths

47:48 Building Your Financial Future

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/

https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/

https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD

Prescription to Travel MD- Doctor’s Lounge

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3717624291786190

Follow Dr. Naomi Lawrence-Reid here:

https://www.instagram.com/naomilawrencereid/

https://www.instagram.com/doctoringdifferently/

https://www.doctoringdifferently.com/

In this episode of the Prescription to Travel MD podcast, Dr. Courtney Downes reflects on the past year of her podcast journey and shares her excitement for the upcoming year in travel. She discusses anticipated changes in the points and miles community, including new credit card options and the ability to pay mortgages with credit cards.

Dr. Courtney Downes also highlights upcoming conferences and retreats, the growing trend of wellness and slow travel, and the impact of technology on travel planning. She encourages listeners to stay connected for updates and tips for maximizing their travel experiences in 2025.

Key Takeaways:

- This podcast has been a labor of love for me.

- I'm looking forward to changes in the points and miles community.

- Chase is rumored to release a premium business credit card.

- Wellness and slow travel are becoming more popular.

- The newsletter will help keep listeners updated on events.

- Travel planning is becoming easier with technology.

- Exploring new places abroad is a priority for me.

- Upcoming conferences offer great opportunities for professionals.

- The travel world is evolving with new trends.

- 2025 promises to be filled with travel opportunities.

Timestamps:

00:45 Introduction and Reflection on the Past Year

02:30 Exciting Developments in Points and Miles

05:58 Upcoming Conferences and Retreats in 2025

10:06 Focus on Wellness and Slow Travel

12:10 Anticipated Changes in the Travel World

Sign up for the Newsletter:

https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/contact

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/

https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/

https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD

In this episode of the Prescription of Travel MD podcast, Dr. Courtney Downes speaks with Dr. Kelly Wright about sustainable travel and the importance of being eco-conscious while exploring the world. They discuss Kelly's journey into medicine, her passion for travel, and how she balances her demanding career with her love for adventure. Kelly shares her expertise in points and miles, explaining how to maximize travel benefits while being mindful of environmental impact. The conversation highlights the significance of supporting local communities and choosing sustainable travel experiences. In this conversation, Kelly and Dr. Courtney Downes discuss sustainable travel practices, the importance of reducing waste, and how consumer behavior can influence change. They share their travel experiences, including bucket list adventures and luxury travel options like business and first-class flights. The discussion also covers how to maximize points and miles for travel, making travel accessible for all income levels, and the significance of taking small steps towards sustainable travel.

Key Takeaways:

- Sustainable travel is about being eco-conscious and intentional.

- Balancing work and personal life is crucial for well-being.

- Points and miles can significantly enhance travel experiences.

- Flexibility in travel planning is essential for busy professionals.

- Sustainability in travel includes supporting local communities.

- Travel can be a luxury that doesn't have to break the bank.

- Using points can offset the costs of luxury travel experiences.

- Being mindful of environmental impact is important in healthcare and travel.

- Choosing sustainable experiences can help preserve biodiversity.

- Traveling sustainably can be both rewarding and enjoyable. 

- The most sustainable thing when traveling is cutting down on waste.

- Consumer behavior can drive change more slowly than regulations.

- Starting small, like bringing a reusable water bottle, can make a big difference.

- Luxury travel can be accessible through points and miles.

- Travel experiences can be both luxurious and budget-friendly.

- Sustainable travel is about making meaningful changes over time.

There are many tools available to help maximize points and miles.

- Travel can be accessible to everyone, regardless of income level.

- It's important to support local businesses and eco-friendly accommodations.

- Sustainable travel is not about perfection, but about progress.

Timestamps:

(01:09) Kelly's Journey into Medicine and Surgery

(07:11) Balancing Work and Travel

(12:14) The World of Points and Miles

(18:51) Sustainable Travel Practices and Experiences

(25:40) Sustainable Travel Practices

(31:04) Travel Experiences and Bucket List Adventures

(33:10) Luxury Travel: Business and First Class Flights

(40:31) Maximizing Points and Miles for Travel

(43:56) Accessible Travel for All Income Levels

Follow Dr. Kelly Wright here:

https://www.instagram.com/pointsandmilesdoc/

https://www.pointsandmilesdoc.com

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

https://prescriptiontotravelmd.com/

https://www.instagram.com/prescriptiontotravelmd/

https://www.youtube.com/@PrescriptiontoTravelMD

In this episode of the Prescription of Travel MD podcast, Dr. Courtney Downes discusses the American Express Platinum card, exploring its pros and cons, and why it may not be the best fit for everyone. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the card's benefits, the high annual fee, and the strategic use of credit cards to maximize travel rewards.

The episode provides insights into how to effectively utilize the Amex Platinum card alongside other cards to enhance travel experiences and achieve financial goals.
Key Takeaways:
- The Amex Platinum card has a high annual fee of $695.
- It's not the best card for everyday spending due to low points earning.
- Maximizing benefits requires strategic use of multiple cards.
- The Centurion Lounge is often crowded, limiting its appeal.
- Using the card's perks effectively can lead to significant savings.
- The Business Platinum card may offer better value for some users.
- Understanding your spending habits is crucial for card selection.
- The real value lies in the ability to earn points strategically.
- Travel benefits include airline fee credits and lounge access.
- The Amex Platinum can be beneficial for frequent travelers who can utilize its perks.

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

In this episode, Dr. Courtney interviews Dr. Michelle Walther, an emergency medicine doctor and travel enthusiast, who shares her journey into emergency medicine, her love for travel, and the unique perks available to military families. They discuss the importance of travel in family life, the differences between domestic and international travel with kids, and the various military discounts available for travel.

Dr. Michelle also shares her favorite credit cards for accumulating points, strategies for maximizing travel opportunities, and her upcoming travel plans. The conversation emphasizes how points and miles can make travel more accessible and enjoyable for families.

Key Takeaways:

- Emergency medicine offers a diverse range of experiences.

- Travel is essential for family bonding and exploration.

- Military families have unique travel perks and discounts.

- Using points and miles can significantly reduce travel costs.

- Disney and Universal offer military discounts that are substantial.

- Retired military personnel still enjoy many travel benefits.

- Researching military discounts can lead to significant savings.

- Credit card strategies are crucial for maximizing travel rewards.

- The Companion Pass from Southwest Airlines is a valuable asset.

- Traveling with kids can create lasting memories and experiences.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Travel and Emergency Medicine

01:05 Journey into Emergency Medicine

02:19 Living in Nashville and Travel Accessibility

03:35 The Importance of Travel in Family Life

05:04 Domestic vs. International Travel with Kids

05:56 Military Travel Perks and Benefits

09:25 Disney and Universal Military Discounts

11:11 Retired Military Benefits

12:34 Maximizing Travel Opportunities for Military Families

13:58 Credit Card Strategies for Travel

16:25 Favorite Travel Cards and Points Accumulation

19:44 Companion Pass and Southwest Airlines

22:08 Exploring Alaska Miles and Travel Deals

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here:

Find Dr. Michelle Walther here:

https://www.instagram.com/doctorpointsandpassports/

https://doctorpointsandpassports.com

In this episode, Dr. Courtney Downes interviews Dr. Bonnie Koo, a retired dermatologist and founder of Wealthy Mom MD. They discuss Bonnie's unique journey from medicine to financial education, the inception of her business, and her upcoming conference focused on money and wellness for women physicians. Bonnie shares insights on building a business, the importance of financial literacy, and practical travel tips for maximizing points and managing expenses responsibly. In this conversation, Dr. Bonnie Koo and Dr. Courtney discuss the importance of understanding cash flow and budgeting, especially during high-spending times like Black Friday. They emphasize the need for intentional spending and how to align financial habits with personal goals. 

The discussion also covers smart travel strategies, including maximizing travel rewards and achieving globalist status with hotel loyalty programs. Finally, they highlight the value of investing in oneself through retreats and conferences, fostering connections and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

- Dr. Bonnie's journey into medicine was influenced by her early interest in science.

- She emphasizes the importance of not tying one's identity solely to academic success.

- Wealthy Mom MD started as a personal learning journey about finance.

- Dr. Bonnie's tech background helped her easily create a blog for sharing financial knowledge.

- She learned business skills through various courses and conferences after starting her blog.

- The upcoming conference focuses on money and wellness for women in healthcare.

- Dr. Bonnie highlights the importance of understanding women's health issues, especially around menopause.

- She encourages using credit cards wisely to earn points without incurring debt.

- Dr. Bonnie suggests using sales events like Black Friday to stock up on necessary items.

- She believes in the value of community and collaboration among women physicians. - Monitoring cash flow is crucial for financial health.

- Creating a budget for impulse spending can prevent regret.

- A spending plan should align with personal goals and values.

- Traveling smartly can enhance life experiences without breaking the bank.

- Using travel rewards can significantly reduce travel costs.

- Investing in conferences can lead to personal and professional growth.

- Building connections at retreats can alleviate feelings of isolation.

- Understanding hotel loyalty programs can maximize travel benefits.

- Intentional spending allows for enjoyment without guilt.

- Investing in oneself is a valuable and rewarding experience.

Timestamps:

00:50 Introduction to Wealthy Mom MD

06:05 The Birth of Wealthy Mom MD

11:57 Upcoming Conference: Money and Wellness for Women

19:35 Understanding Cash Flow and Budgeting for Black Friday

24:40 Intentional Spending and Financial Goals

30:01 Maximizing Travel Rewards and Globalist Status

35:05 Investing in Yourself: The Value of Retreats and Conferences

Find Dr. Bonnie Koo here:

Find Dr. Courtney Downes here: