Talking Travel with Angie Orth

Travel expert Angie Orth was on my radar for a long time. Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing her for Talking Travel on Global Traveler.

Orth has done a lot in the travel industry. She has a very informative site, along with videos, podcasts, social media posts and more. She also published a book, Flirting with Disaster.

Her project with her sister is on hiatus, although she hopes to restart it. It was a fun series in which they split destination activities for luxury travelers and budgeted folks.

During our interview, I initiated a friendly debate about her Chicago list. I questioned her about the appeal of Cloudgate (aka the Bean). She had solid reasons and i respect her stance, although I still hate the Bean.

Next I asked if she had tried Chicago's thin crust pizza. Deep dish gets all the love, but I prefer thin crust (even from the legendary Lou Malnati's). Once again, Orth backed up her opinion. We did both agree though that all pizza is good.

For more info on Orth, go to angieaway.com. Check our interview at Talking Travel with Angie Orth on GT. Also, please subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Talking Travel with David McGuffin

David McGuffin's Exploring Europe has educated folks about the joys of Europe. From out of the way spots to main cities, McGuffin covers all of Europe.

I had the pleasure of chatting with McGuffin to learn about his career and Europe. McGuffin's passion is evident and his knowledge runs deep.

Our interview is at Talking Travel with David McGuffin. While you are there, please subscribe to the Global Traveler YouTube page.

Talking Travel with Alyssa Carson

Of all the folks I have interviewed on Talking Travel for Global Traveler, none has bigger travel plans than Alyssa Carson. In fact, there might not be anyone alive with bigger plans.

Carson wants to go to Mars, a goal she has had since she was a mere toddler. Currently an astrobiologist, Carson has taken many steps towards her goal and continues focused on a trip to Mars. In our interview, Carson discussed all of this and her other travels on this planet.

The interview ca be found at Talking Travel with Alyssa Carson on Global Traveler. While you're there, please hit the subscribe button to help my numbers.

Talking Travel with Chris Palmer

My latest Talking Travel interview guest on Global Traveler is hospitality photographer Chris Palmer. That interview is at Talking Travel with Chris Palmer.

Chris brought a new perspective on travel photography from his work with some of the most luxurious and well-known brand. His photography work extends beyond his profession, too. His passion is ocean photography. His work on both is amazing.

Check out this interview and other travel content on the GT YouTube channel. Please subscribe to it if you like it (or even if you don't).

Talking Travel with Samantha Dion Baker

Author, illustrator and designer Samantha Dion Baker is my latest Talking Travel interview guest on Global Traveler. Baker's recently released book, Draw Your Adventures, is the main focus, but we also covered her career, travel likes and more.

Draw Your Adventures really caught my attention when I first heard of it. In the technology age, drawing things from your travel is a unique way to capture memories. I found it to be a fascinating concept.

It is actually the fourth book in Baker's Draw series. Draw Your Day, Draw Your Day for Kids and Draw Your World are her previous three. They all follow the basic concept of Baker helping the reader to start drawing. That is what Baker [reaches. Just start. You don't have to be an artist. It's personal art and perceptions.

Watch the interview at Talking Travel with Samantha Dion Baker on GT. While you're there, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Talking Travel with Suzi Quatro Again

About two years ago, musician Suzi Quatro was my first interview guest on Talking Travel, my new interview series on Global Traveler.

While I was fairly certain Talking Travel would get enough results to become a regular feature, I wanted the first one to be big. I swung for the fences and landed Quatro, one of my favorites from way back.

As a working musician for more than 50 years, Quatro certainly had experience traveling. I also figured if the series bombed, at least it would give me the chance to interview Quatro.

Much to my slight surprise, Quatro granted the interview. Although I was a bit starstruck at first, I calmed myself and I think we had an interesting chat.

As I write this, the interview is nearing 10K YouTube views, which puts it in the top 5% of all YT videos. The positive response solidified Talking Travel as a viable feature.

When I saw Quatro came out with a new book, I reached out again and landed my second interview (and 58th in the series) with Quatro.

Her book Grave Undertakings is a fascinating read. What started as a collection of epitaphs, became a full fictional novel with a bit of introspection. Grave Undertakings works on three levels. I was quickly drawn into the book as soon as I started reading it.

Just turned 75, Quatro discussed her recent travels, her abilities to read people, her book and more. She also humored me with a few random thoughts at the end.

Quatro is a true music pioneer, who doesn't get enough credit for all she has done. She remains humble and positive. It has been such a unique experience interviewing her. It goes well beyond me being excited about meeting one of my longtime favorite musicians. I'm legitimately intrigued by all I have learned about and from her.

The full interview is at Talking Travel with Suzi Quatro on GT. Also, please subscribe to the GT YT channel. (It's free, easy and will help me a lot).

Talking Travel with Tony Weaver, Jr.

Tony Weaver, Jr. is a self-admitted weirdo and I believe him. Us weirdos have to stick together.

Weaver is also an author and educator. His book, Weirdo, is a big graphic novel about being different. It's got a lot of Weaver in it, including his (thankfully) failed suicide attempt years ago. Weirdo isn't an easy quick read, but it is a great and important one. While on the surface, it is aimed at young black males, it is loaded with life lessons for all. Being different or an outcast doesn't end at adulthood.

When I first heard about Weaver's book, the first thought I had was how feeling like this impacted one's travel. I really wanted to get Weaver's thoughts on that and he obliged.

Of course, we also discussed his career, the process of writing Weirdo and more. I'm sure after you watch our interview, you will think of being weird as a term of endearment. Tony is just that engaging and warm.

My interview with Tony is at Talking Travel with Tony Weaver, Jr. on Global Traveler. Also, please subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Talking Travel with Barbara Booth

Barbara Booth is my latest Talking Travel interview guest of Global Traveler. Booth is a CNBC contributor and the CEO-cofounder of Go-Be Airplane Seat Trays.

Looking into the cleanliness of airplanes for a friend, Booth saw a need and she worked on a solution. The result is a sleeve that covers seatback trays, one of the most germ-filled spots on planes.

After seeing one on a plane and realizing what they were, I contacted Booth who graciously gave me an interview. Booth discussed the whole process, airplane hygiene, future possible products and more.

The full interview is at Talking Travel with Barbara Booth on GT. Also, please subscribe to the GT YT channel. (It's free, easy and will help me a lot).

Talking Travel with Abby Trott

Actress and voice-over talent Abby Trott has an extensive résumé, including roles in movie franchises including Animaniacs and Transformers and video games such as Transformers. A native of Massachusetts, Trott lived in Japan, New York and Los Angeles while building her career. As her résumé grew, so did her interest in travel.

Because of the various roles, she has a large and varied fanbase, which makes her in high demand at celebrity conventions. Passionate about travel, Trott uses her convention appearances as reasons to travel. One of those such conventions happened in Chicago, but I was out of town. I plan on seeing her at Anime 414 in Milwaukee later this year.

Trott discussed the challenges and benefits of voiceover work. She also explained her process in learning voices. Of course, as a well-traveled person, she had plenty of thoughts on travel, too.

The full recap is at Talking Travel with Abby Trott on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.

Talking Travel with Danny Sheaffer

Danny Sheaffer played parts of seven seasons in Major League Baseball. Mostly a catcher, Danny found his best success with the St. Louis Cardinals, for whom he played three seasons.

Always on the lookout for a good interview for here or Global Traveler, I saw he had a book coming out and I contacted him. He graciously granted me time.

Danny's book, Keep Digging: Discovering the Greatest Story Ever Told, Through the Greatest Game Ever Played, will be released soon. It is the story of a man who worked hard at staying in the majors, learning other positions to make himself more valuable. It's a story of faith, determination an success in life and sports.

Danny discussed all of this in our interview. He also answered a few travel questions to appeal to my Global Traveler readers. Keep Digging is available now for pre-order on Amazon.

I really enjoyed talking to Danny. I love the Talking Travel series on GT, because I get to talk to so many folks about so many things, beyond my usual Johngy's Beat stuff.

To watch the interview, go to Talking Travel with Danny Sheaffer. As always, I hope you'll also subscribe to the GT YT channel. It is free and you will not be bothered by emails. Plus, it will really help me.

Talking Travel with Justin Spencer

Founder of the music group Recycled Percussion and creator of the Chaos and Kindness brand, Justin Spencer is living temporarily in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta. He is doing this to highlight Mental Health Awareness Month, while he finishes his book, Terminal Anxiety.

I interviewed Spencer live from the airport during his stay (which is still happening). Spencer discussed his career, life in the airport and his book. Spencer has led an interesting life, including running seven Marathons in seven days. Amazingly, he just added his eighth in the airport.

It was a fun interview and I was happy to have it in time for Mental Health Awareness Month. As Spencer says, where there is chaos, bring kindness.

Find the interview and recap at Talking Travel with Justin Spencer. Also, please subscribe to the Global Traveler YouTube channel. It's free, easy, doesn't require anything more than one click and you won't be bothered by emails.

Talking Travel with Pauline Frommer

My latest interview guest on Talking Travel is Pauline Frommer. Who better to interview about travel than the President of the Frommer Travel Guides.

The daughter of Frommer guides founder Arthur, Pauline took over as President after her father's death late last year. Prior to that, Pauline had an impressive resume in the travel writing field. A writer, reporter, editor, podcaster and more, Pauline did it all. In our interview, she shares her incredible story, as well as her opinions on current travel topics.

Find the interview and recap at Talking Travel with Pauline Frommer. Also, please subscribe to the Global Traveler YouTube channel. It's free, easy, doesn't require anything more than one click and you won't be bothered by emails.

 

Talking Travel with Jim Lampley

My latest Talking Travel interview guest was legendary broadcaster Jim Lampley. His book, It Happened!: A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television, is released today, but he gave me a preview a couple weeks ago.

The first part of the title comes from his famous call of George Foreman's big win. The second part comes from his feeling he was lucky to be picked out of several hundred people in a talent hunt to start his career. I would argue the producers saw something in him and his 50+ years in broadcasting show they were right.

In his career, Lampley covered 14 Olympics, along with hundreds of other events. Because of all of his work, he logged in thousands of miles and visited dozens of cities, making him an ideal interview guest for Global Traveler. It also makes for a fascinating book, which you can purchase at any book seller. I will be adding :mpley's book to my collection ASAP.

Go to Talking Travel with Jim Lampley on Global Traveler to hear the interview. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel. I need more subscribers there. All it takes is a Gmail account. It's free and you won't be bothered with emails etc.

Talking Travel with Theresa Goodrich

My latest Talking Travel interview guest is a fellow Chicagoan. Despite that, I have yet to meet her, even missing an opportunity at the Travel & Adventure Show here.

I did see Theresa at the show and I chatted with her husband. That was enough to set up this interview.

Go to Talking Travel with Theresa Goodrich on Global Traveler to hear the interview. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel. I need more subscribers there. All it takes is a Gmail account. It's free and you won't be bothered with emails etc.

Talking Travel with Elaine Lee

One of the best parts of doing the Talking Travel interviews on Global Traveler is I get to virtually meet and talk to people I never would have otherwise. Such was the case with travel journalist and black travel pioneer Elaine Lee. Coming off of Black History Month and being in Women's History Month, it was the perfect time to do this, since Lee has done a lot for women, particularly black women.

Lee has written a lot about black travel. She also produced two books containing stories from prominent women of color. When Lee started, she very well might have been the first to cover that topic so extensively. She is recognized as a true pioneer.

Despite her focus or target audience, people of all color and genders can learn plenty. Much of her travel tips and info can be applied to anyone. Lee came from the era when it was more difficult for black folks, especially black women, to travel. Some of those hurdles still exist. By reading and learning, we all come closer and travel is easier for all.

Lee was a real delight. As she gracefully moves into her golden years, she still has passion and excitement in her work. She is planning to add working with senior citizens to her resume. I have no doubt she will do for seniors what she has done for people of color.

Find the interview at Talking Travel with Elaine Lee. Then, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Women's History Month and Talking Travel

March is Women's History Month. Today, I celebrate Women's History Month while promoting my Talking Travel interviews for Global Traveler.

Over the last 16 months, I have conducted about 50 Talking Travel interviews and half have been with women.

My first Talking Travel interview was with musician Suzi Quatro, a music pioneer and one of my favorites. While a bit self-serving as Quatro has been in my music rotation for 50 years, she is a true legend in the music industry.

Since then, I have interviewed women reporters, athletes, actresses, writers and more. Each brought a unique story and fun interview. Looking back at all of the women I interviewed, I am proud and happy to have such a famous, diverse and informative group.

Of course, I have to end with a plea for subscriptions to the GT YouTube channel. It's free, easy and you won't be bothered by emails. Plus, it helps keep food on my table and I like to eat.

Talking Travel with Monica Abbott

Monica Abbott is one of the best softball pitchers of all time. A multi-time Olympian and other world competitions and a longtime pro here and abroad, Abbott's records and accolades run many lines deep.

When I heard Monica was publishing a coloring book, I used it as the opportunity to ask for a Talking Travel interview. Monica graciously accepted.

Monica's coloring book doubles as an activities book. The story within is about a young softball player learning the game and teamwork. Having been just released, I have not seen it yet, but if Monica is involved, I have no doubt it is great. Monica would demand nothing les.

You might ask what a kids' coloring book has to do with world travel. The fact is I would have done the interview either way. Monica's world travels more than make her a solid travel interview guest. Promoting the book was just more incentive for her to do the interview.

Beyond all that though, coloring books are making a comeback. In this age of technology, many folks are using coloring books to entertain and engage their kids on flights. Many parents use them as relaxation methods, although those would be different types of coloring books (a bit more challenging).

The interview could not have gone better. Monica gave a fascinating look into life in Japan, where she lived for 14 seasons of playing there.

Go to Talking Travel with Monica Abbott on Global Traveler to hear the interview. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel. I need more subscribers there. All it takes is a Gmail account. It's free and you won't be bothered with emails etc.

Talking Travel with Dan McNeil

I am about the same age as Chicago-area broadcaster Dan McNeil. I have listened to him for most of his radio career, which started with the Chicago Bears fantastic 1985 season.

When I met McNeil at Moretti's for his book signing, I planned on asking him for an interview for my Talking Travel series on Global Traveler. As we talked, McNeil started mentioning cities he visited while covering sports. Now that is the perfect intro to my question! I took that opening and asked. He said he'd get back to me and he did within a couple days.

McNeil could be called a polarizing figure. He has gotten his share of criticism and some of it was earned. McNeil is human. McNeil also has grown a lot, admitted his mistakes and has been open about a lot of his life. While that was not part of our interview, I wanted to explain my respect for McNeil.

In our interview, McNeil discussed his career and his travels. It was an easy, flowing interview. That's not a surprise, considering McNeil has been behind a mic for 40+ years. I really enjoyed this interview and I hope you do. I also hope you see McNeil in the same light as I do.

Watch the video at Talking Travel with Dan McNeil. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Talking Travel with Frankie Torres

If you watched The Voice this season, you saw Frankie Torres. While she didn't win, she did well and is one to watch in the future.

A native of Minnesota, Torres is the official national anthem singer for  the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Sceptres (of the Professional Women's Hockey League). As a youngster, she joined The School of Rock. Currently, she is in the band Midnight Rambler, but also sings on her own.

Frankie talked about her journey with The Voice, singing in large stadiums in front of huge crowds of sports fans, traveling for shows and much more. She decided to use work as a reason to travel. That's a great goal.

It was a real pleasure interviewing Frankie. I hope she performs in Chicago sometime. I would love to see her in person.

Watch the interview at Talking Travel with Frankie Torres. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.

Talking Travel with Kellie McIntyre

When I researched "family travel," Kellie McIntyre came up first. Author and family travel expert McIntyre became a Talking Travel interview guest on Global Traveler.

McIntyre got a bit of a late start in travel, as did her husband, but within weeks of meeting, they traveled the world and haven't stopped since. Even two young daughters didn't slow their travel. Many years later, they now plan on traveling with their daughter and their growing families.

One of the great things about McIntyre's 4wornpassports.com website is her FAQ. I hear so many folks talk of traveling the world, but few tell how to do it with a limited budget, young kids, school etc. McIntyre is happy to share all of her info/ She hopes everyone has worn passports (like her website title).

Of course, she discussed all of her travels, future goals and much more in our interview. You can clearly feel her passion for travel as she talks.

Watch our interview at Talking Travel with Kellie McIntyre. Also, subscribe to the GT YouTube channel.