Get ready for an unforgettable journey through history, mystery, and stunning landscapes. Join filmmaker and author Paul Bonesteel, founder of Bonesteel Films, as he unravels the story of George Masa, a Japanese photographer who arrived in Asheville, NC, in 1915 and became an unexpected hero for conservation in the Appalachian Mountains.

Masa’s breathtaking photos helped inspire the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, leaving a legacy that still resonates today.

Paul first brought Masa’s story to light in his 2002 documentary, The Mystery of George Masa, and now, with co-author Janet McCue, he’s written a powerful new biography, George Masa: A Life Reimagined. But he didn’t stop there. With fresh insights from a recent trip to Japan, Paul’s upcoming documentary will reveal even more layers to Masa’s life and impact.

Tune into Speaking of Travel as Paul shares what drives his passion for uncovering Masa’s story, the incredible impact Masa had on conservation, and why these untold stories matter.

This is history, adventure, and inspiration all rolled into one compelling tale. Don't miss it. Only on Speaking of Travel.

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Join Speaking of Travel’s Leave No Trace TV series as it continues to inspire with candid, uplifting conversations about sustainable travel and resilience. Hosted by the adventurous Richard Crawford of Amazon Prime’s Leave No Trace TV, each episode dives into eco-tourism’s power to make travel a force for good.

Ricky brings real, hopeful stories from around the world from people who are making a difference.

With practical advice for facing today’s climate challenges, this episode provides meaningful guidance for travelers seeking ways to help protect our planet. Learn sustainable strategies, and find out how each journey can uplift communities and safeguard nature.

Tune in to get motivated to travel thoughtfully and make a positive impact—one adventure at a time.

Only on Speaking of Travel.

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Communities hit by natural disasters face not only monumental recovery challenges but also show us what’s possible when people unite with resilience and determination.

These communities remind us of the strength that lies in solidarity and the importance of sustainable practices to protect against future crises. As we witness the power of rebuilding together, we must pay attention to what they’re teaching us: the urgent need to prioritize sustainable solutions, support one another, and prepare for a changing world.

That’s where visionaries like Larry Kopald come in. With over 25 years in branding, Larry has shifted his focus to something even more impactful: healing our planet. As Co-Founder and President of The Carbon Underground, Larry is leading a transformative mission to combat climate change through regenerative practices that restore the Earth’s natural balance.

Join us as we dive into Larry’s journey, uncovering how each of us can take small steps toward a healthier, more sustainable world. Let’s listen, learn, and take action. Together, we can protect our communities and create a future we can all thrive in. 🌍

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Join the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace Series with Richard Crawford, host of the popular TV show Leave No Trace, and special guest Andre Conradie, Head of Cargo & Logistics from White Desert, for an epic Antarctic adventure.

Together, they'll reveal the secrets of an unforgettable, zero-footprint luxury experience on the seventh continent. Along the way, they’ll also explore the vital role education plays in sustainable travel, teaching how balancing luxury with eco-conscious practices protects the planet while creating enriching journeys.

Exploring sustainable logistics in travel opens up a world where adventure meets responsibility, transforming the way we think about travel on a deeper level. Imagine experiencing the breathtaking beauty of a place like Antarctica, all while knowing that every detail, from transportation to accommodation, is designed to protect the pristine environment.

Sustainable logistics is more than a travel trend—it’s essential for the future of our planet. By learning about the behind-the-scenes innovations that reduce environmental impact, travelers become part of a movement towards eco-conscious exploration.

From low-impact practices to supporting local ecosystems, this approach encourages a mindful way of adventuring, where each journey not only enriches your life but also supports global conservation efforts.

Dive into the future of sustainable logistics and eco-friendly exploration, only on Speaking of Travel.

Tune in!

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Natural disasters often disrupt lives, but they also reveal the strength of community. After a crisis, neighbors unite, volunteers step up, and collective resilience shines through.

Lew Bleiweis, Executive Director of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, explains how the airport's swift crisis response depended on coordination, communication, and leadership. His team’s preparedness and collaboration with local authorities ensured safety while teaching valuable lessons for future emergencies.

Also, Mark Collins, Partnerships Manager for RomanticAsheville.com, emphasizes that these challenging times are an opportunity to strengthen strategic partnerships with a focus on responsibility, sustainability, and safety.

Mark highlights how working together, these efforts create a more resilient and unified community, ready for any future trials and how through collaboration they're building a brighter, stronger future for Western North Carolina.

A must listen only on Speaking of Travel.

photo--Mark Collins/L, Lew Bleiweis/R

Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.

The San Diego Zoo is a sprawling 100-acre wonderland, offering more than just your average zoo visit. Rick Schwartz, Wildlife Ambassador for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, shares why the zoo is a world-class wildlife haven.

Known for its lush, naturalistic habitats, this iconic zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals, representing about 660 species. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to conservation and creating unique animal encounters that immerse visitors in nature.

And of course, who could forget the beloved giant pandas? Their presence at the zoo makes your experience even more special, giving you a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

While the pandas symbolize international efforts to protect endangered species, the zoo also boasts an incredible botanical collection with over 700,000 plants, further highlighting its commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Visiting the San Diego Zoo isn't just about seeing animals—it's about stepping into a living, breathing ecosystem where every plant and animal plays a role in telling the story of our planet’s delicate balance.

Whether you're walking through the lush landscapes or meeting an endangered species, every experience here is a celebration of wildlife and a reminder of the importance of conservation.

The San Diego Zoo, with its dedication to protecting animals and ecosystems, reminds us that every visit can make a difference. So next time you're planning an adventure, remember the zoo!

A must listen!

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Imagine a person so entwined with the rhythm of words that each breath brings forth a poem. That’s James Nave, a traveler of stories, master of memory, and a guide through the Imaginative Storm.

With over 600 poems committed to heart, Nave doesn’t just recite; he conjures magic with each syllable. Whether it’s spinning tales in the streets of New York or teaching the boundless possibilities of creativity, his journey is a never-ending dance of language and life.

Nave shares his journey through the Imaginative Storm Writing Project, alongside Allegra Huston, and invites writers into a world where the unexpected blooms, helping them discover the thrill of expression.

His wisdom flows from decades of teaching, from co-founding The Artist’s Way Creativity Camp with Julia Cameron to speaking on global platforms. He’s a weaver of worlds, and each thread he pulls opens your heart to the sheer wonder of creativity.

And be sure to visit Theleaf.org for more information about the LEAF Global Arts Festival and all their programs.

A must listen! Only on Speaking of Travel!

Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.

Get ready to embark on an eco-conscious adventure like no other! This episode of the Speaking of Travel + Leave No Trace TV series takes you to the icy wonderland of Antarctica with none other than Richard Crawford, the popular host of the hit TV show Leave No Trace.

But that's not all—we're also joined by Louis, the maestro of Food and Beverage at White Desert, the ultra-luxury experience that promises zero impact on the pristine Antarctic environment. Imagine balancing world-class service with sustainability on the 7th Continent, where every detail is designed to protect this fragile ecosystem.

In this episode, we dive deep into the thrilling world of sustainable logistics, a challenge that blends cutting-edge innovation with a deep commitment to the planet.

From the behind-the-scenes magic that makes White Desert a top-tier experience to the creative solutions that ensure customer satisfaction while safeguarding the Earth, this journey is all about pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in sustainable travel.

So, join us on this incredible adventure where luxury meets responsibility, and discover how you too can leave no trace while exploring the wonders of the world!

Only on Speaking of Travel. A must listen!

Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.