Best Clara Francken Podcasts (2025)

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31- Why American Trains Are Worth Your Time w/ Simply Railway 1:12:03

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5d ago1:12:03

1:12:03

Thibault Constant, the creator behind the YouTube channel Simply Railway, talks about the reality of traveling by train across the U.S. In this episode of Travel Devil, host Clara Francken sits down with Thibault to talk about Amtrak, the national railway company in the United States. Thibault has crisscrossed North America by rail, documenting nig…

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Skiplagging: Not Worth the Risk - Travel Tip Tuesday 5:24

8d ago5:24

5:24

Skiplagging is a growing trend where people are booking flights and skipping one leg in order to stay in the layover city. But, there are risks involved, and we're not a fan! Tune in to learn why. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch…

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Visit Florence, Italy with Martina from SunFlorence Tours 41:06

14d ago41:06

41:06

We are so excited to chat with Martina about Florence, Italy! She talks about the rigorous process of becoming a tour guide, the tours she offers, and why tours are important! Trust us, you'll be ready to book your trip to Florence at the end of the episode! Episode Resources: SunFlorence Tours website SunFlorence Tours Instagram Harald Baldr video…

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Importance of Moving On Flights - Travel Tip Tuesday 6:24

22d ago6:24

6:24

Long flights are not a lot of fun, and many of us are tempted to sit in our seats until they are over, but we talk about the importance of getting up and moving around, especially when it comes to preventing blood clots. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extr…

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Pros and Cons of Being a Solo Digital Nomad with Anna 48:46

28d ago48:46

48:46

Your Travel Friend Anna joins us to chat about the pros and cons of being a solo travelling digital nomad, including how she manages her budget, how she balances work and travelling, and how she plans her adventures! If you're curious about solo travelling, meeting friends while exploring, or working from anywhere, this episode is for you! Episode …

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What is a Travel Deal? - Travel Tip Tuesday 6:22

1M ago6:22

6:22

Jenn gives an update on her quest for the elusive travel deal! So, how do we recognize a deal? Tune in and see! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav items here: Our Favourite Trave…

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30- Sustainable Travel in Greece: How to Make Local Impact w/ Joanna Kalafatis 50:59

1M ago50:59

50:59

When we talk about sustainable travel, we often focus on carbon footprints and eco-hotels. But what about the local people? In this episode of Travel Devil, your host Clara Francken talks to Joanna Kalafatis. Joanna is a travel writer, photographer, and author of the Best of Greece Moon Guide. Today we talk about what it really means to travel resp…

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Plane Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts at 30,000 Feet 32:58

1M ago32:58

32:58

Even the most seasoned traveler makes a mistake once in a while! Here are some reminders for dos and don'ts of plane travel, from the airport to the plane, and the baggage claim! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel …

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Finding Comfort Food While Traveling Abroad - Travel Tip Tuesday 6:06

2M ago6:06

6:06

We're all for new experiences while traveling, and that includes food, but sometimes you need to find some comfort food or grab something to eat that is quick and easy, which is why many of us head to chain restaurants like Subway and McDonalds! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stu…

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Traveling by Train & Sustainable Travel Tips with Clara Francken 36:50

2M ago36:50

36:50

Have you considered traveling by train instead of flying? While it's not usually our first thought in North America, Clara Francken, host of the Travel Devil Podcast shares her insights on traveling sustainably, and tips for planning your train journeys! Episode Resources: Clara's Instagram @clarafracken Travel Devil Podcast Clara's Youtube channel…

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Unlock Travel Discounts with Perkopolis - Travel Tip Tuesday 4:05

2M ago4:05

4:05

We all want to save a little money, so take advantage of all the programs available to you! Sometimes your employer or credit card offers exclusive discounts for hotels, car rentals, tickets and more. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have M…

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29- Vanlife in Canada is fun, but can it be sustainable? w/ Alise from Outdoor Nerds 1:12:16

2M ago1:12:16

1:12:16

Vanlife offers freedom, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, but what about its environmental impact? In this episode, your host Clara Francken sits down with Alise from Outdoor Nerds to dive into the reality of vanlife in Canada. Beyond the Instagram-worthy views, we explore what it takes to live on the road while keeping sustainability in mind…

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Beginner's Guide to Dublin, Ireland 26:40

2M ago26:40

26:40

Planning a trip to Dublin, Ireland? We kick off your trip planning with information on how to get around Dublin, what areas to stay in, what to do, and even what to eat! Episode Resources: Guinness Storehouse website Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra co…

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Consider Safety When Planning Travel - Travel Tip Tuesday 7:34

3M ago7:34

7:34

Meggan is planning her next travel destination, and she wants to know if it is safe. Luckily, Travel Pulse has a list for that! Episode Resources: Travel Pulse The Safest Places to Travel in 2025 Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch!…

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Discover Canada: Top Tourist Attractions by Province & Territory 38:40

3M ago38:40

38:40

We dive into each province and territory's top tourist attractions, according to TripAdvisor! Discover what makes each Canadian Province and Territory unique, and why you should visit. Episode Resources: Nova Scotia Episodes Canadian Episodes Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff …

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Book Classes While Traveling - Travel Tip Tuesday 5:02

3M ago5:02

5:02

Have you considered booking a class when traveling? It's an amazing way to engage with local culture and traditions, plus it's always fun to learn something new! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store…

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28- From Pro Cyclist to Bicycle Touring Mom w/ Fatima Berton 1:11:17

3M ago1:11:17

1:11:17

Can you be a cyclist, a mother, and a content creator—all at once? Fatima Berton (@bertoniiii) proves that you can. In this episode of Travel Devil, we dive into bike touring as a family, the realities of women in professional cycling, and how Fatima balances life on two wheels with motherhood. From competing at a pro level while working full-time …

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The Joys of Jet Lag: How to Live a Daring Life with Kat Medina 37:12

3M ago37:12

37:12

So many of us feel like our best selves when we travel, but what about when we're home? We chat with Kat Medina, author of The Joys of Jet Lag to discover how we can bring the traveler's mindset home with us. Episode resources: Kat's website Kat's Instagram Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get acces…

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27- Safety for Girls on Trains: We Need to Talk About This 26:31

3M ago26:31

26:31

When we talk about sustainable travel, we often focus on the environment, but what about personal safety? In this episode of Travel Devil, we explore the challenges women face when using public transport, particularly trains. With real-life experiences and eye-opening statistics - like the fact that 93% of s3xual violence victims on Parisian public…

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How Meggan is Using AI to Trip Plan - Travel Tip Tuesday 7:02

4M ago7:02

7:02

Meggan is planning her 50th birthday trip to Italy, and enlisting help from AI! We also chat about what to consider before using AI in general. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav…

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What to Do in Orlando (Besides Theme Parks) with Stevie 40:18

4M ago40:18

40:18

Stevie from Destinations Beyond Expectations joins us to talk about his hometown of Orlando! Learn about what to do around Orlando besides the theme parks! We discuss: Why visit Orlando What areas to stay in Family-friendly things to do in Orlando Adults-only things to do in Orlando Stevie's favourite Orlando restaurants Best day trips from Orlando…

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How to Have an International Date Night - Travel Tip Tuesday 6:44

4M ago6:44

6:44

Jenn and Meggan discuss creative ways to incorporate travel into everyday life through 'International Date Night.' Jenn shares how she and her husband started this tradition by cooking dishes from different countries. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra c…

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26- Cycling to the Climate Conference: A Ride for Change 1:07:58

4M ago1:07:58

1:07:58

Would you cycle 6,500 km to highlight climate change? For Guillaume Otrage, the answer was yes. Instead of hopping on a plane to attend the COP29 Climate Conference, he went on a six-month bicycle journey from Paris to Baku. Together with a team of volunteers and participants, the aim was to deliver 10 proposals to leverage cycling for climate prot…

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Secrets Playa Mujeres: A Comprehensive Resort Review 36:12

4M ago36:12

36:12

Meggan shares her recent travel experience to Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf and Spa Resort in Cancun, Mexico. Listen as she details everything from resort amenities, dining options, and the check-in/out process, to the new requirements for travelers to Mexico. Meggan provides an in-depth review of the resort's rooms, food, beach, and the variety of ac…

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Unlocking Travel Deals in 2025 - Travel Tip Tuesday 6:16

4M ago6:16

6:16

Are you on the hunt for travel deals in 2025? While rock-bottom prices are hard to find, there are strategies you can use to find cheap(er) flights. Highlighted strategies include being flexible with travel dates, setting alerts on sites like Skyscanner and Google Flights, booking in advance, seeking packages on Travelzoo and Redtag, and following …

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25- Beyond Cleanups: Creative Action to Save our Oceans 52:38

5M ago52:38

52:38

They picked up 650,000 cigarette butts and piled them in the city center. Why? To take a striking stand against trash & pollution. In this episode, I chat with Andreas Noe, aka The Trash Traveler, who’s changing beach cleanups into powerful awareness campaigns. From creating trash art to organizing massive cleanups, Andreas is on a mission to show …

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Coolcations: 10 Fun Winter Travel Destinations 31:16

5M ago31:16

31:16

Looking for amazing skiing vacations, northern lights or unique Winter experiences? We outline 10 winter coolcation destinations suggested by Flight Centre Canada. Episode Resources: What To Do In Nova Scotia In The Winter Magical Places To Spend Christmas Around The World Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & …

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Air Canada Carry-on Changes in 2025 - Travel Tip Tuesday 7:00

5M ago7:00

7:00

Air Canada has made changes to their carry-on policy in 2025 - but what does that mean for you? Episode Resources: Air Canada Website Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav items her…

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2024 End of Year Thank You! 7:22

5M ago7:22

7:22

It's the end of 2024 - our 4th year together! Wondering what's next in 2025? We discuss our travel plans and hopes for the podcast! Thanks for being with us - we appreciate you! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel M…

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24- What High School in Turkey is Really Like as an Exchange Student - Christmas Edition 56:19

5M ago56:19

56:19

Attending Turkish high school as foreigners? This is our personal experience during the winter time in Turkey. This episode is my Christmas gift to all the international students abroad. Host Clara Francken and her best friend Debbie talk about attending high school in Turkey as an exchange student. We reflect on our year living and studying in Izm…

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It's Time To Plan For 2025 Travels - Travel Tip Tuesday 8:26

5M ago8:26

8:26

Have you booked any trips for 2025? Meggan shares what you should consider before booking your next trip. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav items here: Our Favourite Travel Prod…

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Jenn's Atlanta Trip Recap - What To Do, Eat & See 32:10

6M ago32:10

32:10

Traveling to Atlanta, Georgia? Jenn shares what to do, where to eat and how to get around Atlanta. Atlanta is an amazing city, full of history and delicious food. Use this episode to get an idea of planning your Atlanta adventure. Episode Resources: Tiny Doors ATL Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll ge…

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Tips for Traveling Over the Holidays 6:10

6M ago6:10

6:10

If you're headed to the airport or on a road trip this holiday season, make sure you're prepared! Jenn shares some quick tips to navigate the airport during this busy time. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Po…

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23- Walking 1,000 km: Eco-Mobility & Climate Action in Botswana 39:47

6M ago39:47

39:47

How far would you go to raise awareness about climate change? Reuben Ntuluki walked 1000 km through Botswana to prove that sustainable travel is possible and necessary. In this episode of Travel Devil, your host Clara Francken uncovers the challenges, triumphs, and lessons from Reuben’s inspiring journey. Topics covered: Reuben's untold story of wa…

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Beginner's Guide To Innsbruck, Austria 25:18

6M ago25:18

25:18

This week, we dive into Innsbruck, Austria, including what to do, how to get around and where to stay! Meggan shares her experiences in this city in the Alps. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Ch…

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22- Portugal to Germany by Train: The Truth About Sustainable Travel 33:58

6M ago33:58

33:58

In this solo episode, your host Clara Francken shares her firsthand experience traveling from Portugal to Germany by train - an epic 4-day journey filled with highs, lows, and important lessons. From breathtaking views in southern France to logistical nightmares at border crossings, Clara unpacks the realities of choosing sustainable travel over ch…

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Importance of Weekend Getaways - Travel Tip Tuesday 4:50

6M ago4:50

4:50

This week, we discuss the benefits of incorporating weekend getaways into your annual plans. Despite limited vacation time, we think short trips can provide a much-needed mental reset and break from routine errands. Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra con…

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21- Crossing borders by train, EU politics & upcoming changes w/ Jon Worth 1:10:07

6M ago1:10:07

1:10:07

From funny and awkward border-crossing moments to the occasional frustrating delays, this episode is packed with relatable and entertaining train tales. Host Clara Francken welcomes Jon Worth, an independent EU policy commentator and expert on sustainable transport, for an engaging discussion on European train travel. It's not just about stories, t…

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Exploring Amsterdam: Tips, Tastes, and Travel Tales from Meggan 40:10

7M ago40:10

40:10

This week Meggan shares all about her week-long trip to Amsterdam! She recounts her favourite food, where she stayed, what they did, how they got around, and shares tips for those planning their first trip to Amsterdam! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra…

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20- Can we Feed Monkeys and Why Not? This is Primate Tourism w/ Connie Needham 1:02:46

7M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

Can we take selfies with monkeys? Can I feed apes? Why are macaques aggressive towards humans? Can I eat primates? In this episode of Travel Devil, we're exposing the wildlife exploitation in southeast Asia's tourism culture - with Connie Needham. While Vietnam and Southeast Asia is a backpacker’s paradise, it’s also home to more and more wildlife …

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Tips for Traveling with Your Glasses or Contacts - Travel Tip Tuesday 5:36

7M ago5:36

5:36

This week Jenn shares her tips for traveling with contacts and glasses, including bringing back-ups! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav items here: Our Favourite Travel Products …

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19- 50,000km by Train! Spies, Border Control & more w/ Victor Figèra, La Route Du Soja 1:07:33

7M ago1:07:33

1:07:33

In this episode of Travel Devil, I sit down with Victor Figèra from La Route du Soja to discuss his incredible long-distance train journey from Paris to Taiwan with his partner Léa. Victor shares how his childhood shaped his passion for sustainable travel and how they navigated a route that emits five times less CO2 than flying. We dive into their …

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The Benefits of Small Group Travel with Origin Travels 31:14

7M ago31:14

31:14

This week Sandra joins us to chat about Origin Travels. Focusing on small group travel for busy professionals, Sandra discusses the challenges and rewards of running the company, the unique travel experiences they offer, and tips for those considering a group trip. Learn about the benefits of immersive local experiences, and get insights into popul…

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Don't Always Follow the Influencers - Travel Tip Tuesday 9:24

7M ago9:24

9:24

So many places go viral these days for a variety of reasons - whether it is a restaurant or a store, or a cafe, it seems like some influencer somewhere is always telling you “you have to try this place”, but should you!? Meggan shares her experience in Amsterdam! Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get…

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Navigating Credit Card Travel Insurance: Lessons Learned 19:44

7M ago19:44

19:44

This week Meggan shares the conclusion of her credit card insurance claim for a broken windshield in Iceland! Did she get her money back?! Listen and find out! Jenn also shares how she decided on a travel credit card, and what to take into consideration before you pick one. Listen to Meggan's Iceland trip report here: Iceland Road Trip: Staying on …

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What Does SSSS On Your Boarding Pass Mean? Travel Tip Tuesday 6:32

8M ago6:32

6:32

This week we chat about SSSS on your boarding pass, what it means and how it affects your travel! Episode Resources: DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You’ll make our day & you’ll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content. We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast St…

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Beginner's Guide to Frankfurt, Germany 29:46

8M ago29:46

29:46

This week we share what to do, eat and see in Frankfurt, including where to stay and how to get around! We want to thank SafetyWing for partnering with us on this episode! SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance specifically designed for the needs of freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads. We love that you can be covered all over the wo…

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Could You Be a Digital Nomad? Travel Tip Tuesday 8:16

8M ago8:16

8:16

This week we chat about what a digital nomad is, and how to decide if long-term travel while working remotely is right for you. We want to thank SafetyWing for partnering with us on this episode! SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance specifically designed for the needs of freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads. We love that you can be…

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18- From Refugee Shipwreck to Ocean Cleanup w/ Daniel Angelis 59:32

8M ago59:32

59:32

Today's episode is all about beach cleanups, sharing the story of the coastal and marine management expert and founder Daniel Angelis, who got started during the refugee crisis. Daniel shares his journey of how the refugee boats impacted his home island Lesbos in Greece, and how they dealt with the trash. He's opening up about leading ocean cleanup…

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Balancing Personal Finance and Travel with Danielle Desir from The Thought Card 45:06

8M ago45:06

45:06

In this episode of the Travel Mug Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Danielle Desir, a seasoned traveler and finance expert. Danielle shares her journey from starting the Thought Card podcast in 2018 to becoming a podcast marketing coach and advocate for balancing financial responsibilities with travel aspirations. She discusses her beginnings, in…