Travel Wins

Jim “The Rookie” Morris is no longer a rookieIn this captivating episode of The Travel Wins, I had the honor of sitting down with Jim "The Rookie" Morris, whose extraordinary life story transcends the baseball diamond to inspire millions worldwide. A man who defied the odds, Jim's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.Jim's passion for baseball began at just five years old, setting his sights on a dream of pitching in the major leagues. But life had other plans. Injuries and setbacks dashed his hopes by the age of twenty-five, with doctors delivering the crushing news that he would never play again. Yet, life has a way of writing unexpected chapters. Against all odds, at the age of thirty-five—when most athletes are stepping away from the game—Jim found himself pitching for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His remarkable comeback was so incredible that Disney immortalized it in the beloved film *The Rookie*, starring Dennis Quaid.

In this episode of *The Travel Wins*, we dive deep with Jason Greenwood, founder of Greenwood Consulting, a visionary in the eCommerce world who's on a mission to rewrite the rules for B2B brands. With over two decades of experience, Jason realized early on that most eCommerce agencies and consultants focus their energy on trendy, high-profile retail brands, leaving behind manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors eager to make their mark in the digital marketplace. This gap inspired him to create Greenwood Consulting, a service precisely tailored to meet the needs of B2B brands yearning to harness the explosive growth potential of eCommerce.Jason's journey began with his own frustrations as a merchant. He often felt that he needed a trusted partner to guide him, someone who understood the unique challenges B2B brands face when stepping into digital transformation. So, he built Greenwood Consulting to be *that* partner—a one-stop advisory service designed to simplify and supercharge the eCommerce journey f

Jamie Mittelman voice for women athletesIn this captivating episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Jamie Mittelman, the dynamic founder and host of Flame Bearers, fresh from her travels to Paris for the latest Olympic and Paralympic Games. As someone dedicated to bringing the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians and Paralympians to the forefront, Jamie’s time in Paris wasn’t just about witnessing incredible athletic feats—it was about furthering her mission to amplify the voices of women who inspire change through their perseverance and achievements on and off the world stage.Jamie’s passion for storytelling runs deep. Flame Bearers is the world’s first storytelling platform specifically designed to illuminate the lives and struggles of women athletes whose journeys often remain in the shadows. With an impressive background, including a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard and seven years of communications experience across corporate and nonprofit sectors, Jamie is uniquely equipped to d

Timeless Inspirations: Jeri Mae JamesIn this episode of The Travel Wins, Pete Kotzbach chats with Jeri Mae James, a model and actress driven by her love for classic films and her "can-do" attitude. Growing up in a small California town, Jeri Mae fell in love with Old Hollywood through vintage shows like I Love Lucy and The Andy Griffith Show. Inspired by the magic of the classics, she pursued acting and modeling, navigating the competitive world of LA while staying true to her nostalgic roots.From local theater to self-made modeling gigs, Jeri Mae found creative ways to share her unique vision, leveraging social media as a digital stage to reach a growing audience. Her dream is to bring back the elegance of Technicolor films while connecting with fellow artists who share her passion for the Golden Age of Hollywood. She also shares tips for experiencing LA’s history, from vintage theaters to iconic hotels.Listen in as Jeri Mae discusses embracing creativity, overcoming setbacks, and keeping the spirit of Old H

Viridiana Álvarez: Climbing Her WayIn the latest episode of The Travel Wins, we sit down with the incredible Viridiana Álvarez, a world-renowned alpinist from Mexico who’s redefining the limits of human endurance and ambition. A driven athlete and Electrolit ambassador, Álvarez is on the verge of completing an unprecedented climbing feat: becoming the first woman to conquer both the "Seven Summits" challenge and all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters.What makes Álvarez’s story even more compelling is her late start in the sport. Growing up in Aguascalientes, Mexico, far from the high mountains she now calls home, she never envisioned a future in mountaineering. It wasn’t until the age of 30 that she discovered her passion for climbing—a revelation that would lead her to some of the world’s most formidable peaks. Since then, her ascent has been nothing short of meteoric.In 2019, Álvarez set the Guinness World Record for the fastest ascent by a woman of the three highest mountains—Everest, K2, and Kangchenjunga—using s

The Artistic Legacy: JD Shultz’s Colorful World Beyond CanvasOn this captivating episode of The Travel Wins, we dive into the vibrant world of JD (Joshua Dimitri) Shultz, an artist whose creative path was no surprise given his family’s rich artistic heritage. With both parents, Carole Shultz (a renowned sculptor and painter) and Jack Shultz (a pioneering multi-media painter), making waves in Southern California’s art scene during the '70s and '80s, JD and his siblings grew up immersed in an atmosphere where art wasn’t just a profession but a way of life.From a young age, JD and his siblings, Adam and Rachel, channeled their creativity, shaping what would become a family legacy cherished worldwide. Today, the works of all five family members adorn homes and offices across the globe, bringing a touch of their artistic spirit to life. JD’s unique style stands out through his playful yet intense compositions—what he describes as "complexity at its most whimsical." His innovative approach includes painting on the

Cultivating Connections in Agriculture: A Conversation with Jessie JarvisIn this episode of The Travel Wins, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jessie Jarvis, a woman who wears many hats — wife, mother, third-generation rancher, podcast host, and the Founder and CEO of Of The West. Jessie’s roots run deep in the American West, having grown up on her family’s cattle ranch in Southern Idaho. From an early age, she developed a profound appreciation for the land and the legacy of ranching, a passion that now drives her mission to connect others in the agricultural and western industries.Jessie’s superpower? Connecting people. And it’s this remarkable gift that led her to create Of The West, a job platform tailored specifically to the agriculture and western sectors. Since its inception in 2021, Of The West has helped hundreds of companies find their next perfect hire. Recognized as the "Official Job Platform" of prestigious organizations like the American Quarter Horse Association, the National Cutting Horse Ass

Pursuit of Perfection: A Conversation with Steve Rice and Gavin Maloof of Tequila ComisarioIn this captivating episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Steve Rice and Gavin Maloof, the visionary forces behind California’s very own Tequila Comisario. With a relentless drive to perfect the art of tequila-making, Steve and Gavin have worked tirelessly alongside master distillers to craft something truly extraordinary. From their deep-rooted passion for agave to their patented Tequila Comisario expressions, they’re setting a new standard for what tequila can be.Tequila Comisario isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience that elevates the spirit and redefines connoisseurship. After just one sip, you’ll find yourself seeking out perfection in every aspect of life. In this episode, we dive into the brand's creation, its commitment to quality, and the essence that makes Tequila Comisario stand out in a crowded market. With small-batch, handcrafted tequilas made from 100% all-natural, estate-grown agave, every bottle

Malachi Gagnon: Rising Star in MusicIn this exciting episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with emerging pop-country artist Malachi Gagnon. With a deep passion for music, Malachi opens up about his journey from discovering his talent to navigating the challenges of the music industry. He shares the thrill of live performances, discussing the emotional connection he builds with his audience and how authenticity drives his artistry.Malachi also talks about the ups and downs of pursuing a music career at a young age, stressing the importance of staying positive and resilient. He provides insight into his songwriting process, including a tribute piece that holds personal significance, and reflects on his transition from pop beginnings to a more mature singer-songwriter style. For aspiring musicians, Malachi offers valuable advice: embrace risks and build a supportive community. Beyond music, he shares how he balances his personal life with his rising career and hints at exciting touring plans.Join us for an insp

In this captivating episode of The Travel Wins, we dive deep into the exhilarating world of live entertainment with Erik Himel, founder of Himel Entertainment Group. From Los Angeles to Paris, London to Moscow, Erik's company provides unmatched solutions for live events, offering services that range from consulting and musical direction to staffing and creating tailored programming for luxury parties, weddings, corporate events, and more. Each event is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience that stands apart from the rest. With everything managed in-house, Himel Entertainment delivers excellence at every stage, from concept to execution, making them the go-to choice for elite events worldwide.Erik Himel's journey is as impressive as his company's success. Originally from Pennsylvania, Erik developed a passion for business and entrepreneurship early on, earning a degree in business management from Robert Morris University. After relocating to Los Angeles, he quick

Building Empires: The Inspiring Journey of Bobby Mesmer, CEO of RMG Erectors & Constructors, LLCIn this riveting episode of The Travel Wins, we delve into the remarkable story of Bobby Mesmer, a titan of industry who has redefined the limits of entrepreneurial success. As the CEO of RMG Erectors & Constructors, LLC—the world's largest Pre-Engineered Metal Building Erector Company—Bobby's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. But his achievements don’t stop there; he is also the visionary behind RMG Luxury Services, LLC, a disruptive startup offering Black car SUV and luxury jet services nationwide.In this episode, Bobby Mesmer opens up about his journey, sharing the critical role that travel and personal connections play in his business philosophy. He discusses the lessons learned from overcoming adversity, the importance of a hands-on leadership approach, and how his strategic investments—like the private jet—have been pivotal in expanding his business on a global scale. Tune in to The Travel Wi

Q and Beyond: John de LancieIn this episode of The Travel Wins podcast, I interview the legendary John de Lancie, famed for his role as Q in the Star Trek franchise. We explore the vibrant 1980s sci-fi era, the evolution of movie props, and the enduring significance of memorabilia. De Lancie shares fascinating stories about his global fanbase, the emotional connections fans have with iconic items, and his experiences with auctioning memorabilia. Whether you're a business traveler, sci-fi enthusiast, or collector, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the legacy of Star Trek.

In this riveting episode of The Travel Wins, host Pete Kotzbach is joined by the dynamic Tulsi Gabbard, renowned author of "For Love of Country." Dive deep into Tulsi's captivating life story and the lifestyle she leads while traveling across the globe. As a former U.S. Congresswoman and military veteran, Tulsi shares her unique perspectives on balancing a demanding career with her passion for exploration. Discover the challenges she faces, the cultures she embraces, and the personal insights she gains from her journeys. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the intersection of leadership, travel, and personal growth.

Illuminating the Path: A Conversation with Tisha Vaculin on The Travel Wins PodcastIn the world of entertainment, a few stars shine so brightly that they leave an indelible mark on our hearts and screens. One such luminary is Tisha Vaculin, an actress celebrated for her captivating performances in both film and television. Her career has spanned over two decades, and is looking brighter than ever.From Modelling to the Big Screen: The Early DaysVaculin’s journey to stardom began long before she became a fixture in our living rooms and cinemas. In 1993, she captured the nation’s attention by winning the Seventeen Magazine model contest, a victory that showcased her undeniable beauty and charisma. This early triumph was but the first step in what would become a remarkable and enduring career.Balancing Stardom and Family LifeAs a dedicated actress and mother, Vaculin has mastered the art of balancing a demanding career with her family responsibilities. Her meticulous scheduling ensures she excels in her professio

Jason Sinay, a Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter and guitarist, has a storied career performing with legends like Keith Richards, Neil Young, and Mike Campbell's Dirty Knobs. Now, he's venturing into his solo career with the release of "The Mountain," a double album produced and co-written with Martin Pradler.In our latest episode of The Travel Wins, Jason shares insights on his musical journey, the challenges of leaving the Dirty Knobs, and the making of "The Mountain." He reflects on the resilience required to perfect the album, highlighting songs like "It Was You" and "History," which span decades, and more contemporary tracks like "Every Day Every Night" that delve into his personal life.Starting his guitar journey at nine after a life-changing Led Zeppelin concert, Jason's path was shaped by influences from Queen to Neil Young and mentorship from jazz guitarist Buddy Matlock. His early career included a significant record deal with Five Easy Pieces and extensive touring, which honed his craft and led t

Emerging country singer Presley Tennant graces this week's episode of The Travel Wins podcast, bringing her unequivocal talent and vibrant California spirit to the forefront. With an inspiring story and a dynamic career, Presley shares her musical journey and upcoming touring schedule thru California, Utah, Arizona and visiting Nashville on the regular.Hailing from Norco, CA—affectionately known as Horsetown, USA—Presley has been immersed in the world of Country Music from a young age. Her national debut on The Voice at just 16 marked the beginning of her determined quest to carve out a unique space in the industry. Presley has since collaborated with top creatives to craft her distinctive California-Country sound, a harmonious blend of western lifestyle, powerhouse vocals, traditional roots, and modern energy.Join us on The Travel Wins as we dive into Presley Tennant's inspiring journey, exploring the lives of those who travel for their work. Uncover the stories behind their success and their impact on the w

On this episode of The Travel Wins, I talk to Eric Christenson, CEO and co-founder of Nutrient Survival. Nutrient provides "freedom food" to fuel success on the road or at home.As a former army guy and marketing exec, Eric knows the challenges of life on the go. He estimates over 120 travel days a year now running Nutrient. We discuss some of the places he's called home over the years, from military posts to various companies. His favorite remains the Eastern Shore of Maryland, where he appreciates the local culture and proximity to major East Coast cities.Nutrient makes specialty emergency rations designed with the same standards as military special forces packets. By partnering with influencers in tactical communities, they spread the word on reliable fuel for any scenario.Starting a food biz comes with its own challenges. Eric shares how direct-to-consumer marketing helped bypass traditional retail hurdles in product development.We get real about the modern processed food system and lack of nutrients in ma

Bob Eubanks: lifetime in entertainmentFrom Rock 'n Roll to Country MusicBob Eubanks began his illustrious career as a top rock ‘n roll dee-jay at KRLA in Los Angeles, dominating the airwaves for seven years. In 1972, he transitioned to country music, becoming the exclusive promoter for Merle Haggard and managing stars like Dolly Parton and Barbara Mandrell.The Beatles and BeyondBob Eubanks is the only living person to have produced Beatles concerts during all three of their American tours. His show, "Backstage with the Beatles," captivates audiences with unique behind-the-scenes stories. After the Beatles, Bob promoted concerts for The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, becoming one of America’s most successful concert promoters.Television IconOn television, Bob hosted and produced hit game shows like "The Newlywed Game" and "Card Sharks." With nine Emmy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his contributions to TV are legendary.Producer and Keynote SpeakerBob’s production credits include "The Toni Tenn

"On the Road with Brandon Hartt: The Making of a Country Music Maverick"Join us on "The Travel Wins" podcast as we dive into the vibrant world of Brandon Hartt, a trailblazing country music artist whose songs paint vivid stories with a blend of traditional and outlaw country vibes. Known for his raw, emotional performances and a rebellious streak, Brandon captures the hearts of country music enthusiasts everywhere. From his early days singing in church to becoming a celebrated multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, Brandon’s musical journey is as captivating as his tracks. His debut EP 'Gas' not only highlights his rich musical talents but also cements his status as a rising star in the country scene. Tune in as we explore how Brandon Hartt continues to charm audiences with his authentic storytelling and powerful music, solidifying his place as a must-watch artist in today’s country music panorama.EVENT ALERT: Patriots Fest is an independent music festival that boasts a lineup of seasoned musicians including 3

Dive into the inspiring story of Creed Fisher on The Travel Wins podcast, where music meets the essence of America! Starting his music career after turning 35, Creed left behind his oil field career to chase his true passion in the world of country music. His songs are infused with fierce patriotism and resonate deeply with the American spirit. Celebrating liberty, resilience, and indomitable courage, Fisher's music captures the heart of the nation. His powerful tribute to the red, white, and blue has made him a cherished icon among patriots and music enthusiasts alike. With a gritty, authentic sound that embodies the soul of country music, Creed Fisher is not just a musician—he's a storyteller whose tales echo the American dream. Tune in to hear how Creed Fisher became the voice of America, inspiring listeners with every note.EVENT ALERT: Patriots Fest is an independent music festival that boasts a lineup of seasoned musicians including 3 Doors Down, Ted Nugent, Big & Rich, Cowboy Troy, Demun Jones, Cree