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Have you ever looked at your relentless daily grind and wondered if there is a better, more authentic way to live?In this episode of Living The Good Life, host Kimberly Henrie sits down with lifestyle enthusiast, architect, and luxury real estate broker Greg Gunter. Greg shares his fascinating journey of trying to recreate the slow, romantic Italian lifestyle stateside in Colorado, before ultimately taking a massive leap of faith to move to Mexico at age 50.Now a 17-year resident of the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage city of San Miguel de Allende, Greg is the ultimate example of someone who didn't just dream of the good life—he's actively living it every single day. Tune in to discover how stepping outside your comfort zone can completely erase your stress, activate your passions, and introduce you to a vibrant global community.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The State-Side Experiment: How Greg spent his 40s building an award-winning Umbrian fattoria (farmhouse) in Grand Junction, Colorado, using authentic Italian antiques—and why beautiful architecture wasn't enough to fix a high-stress lifestyle.Leap and the Net Will Appear: Greg's inspiring story of moving to Mexico on the heels of the Great Recession without knowing a soul, speaking the language, or having a fallback plan—and how he went on to build a booming real estate brokerage for Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand.The Magic of San Miguel de Allende: Why this 500-year-old high-desert oasis has been named the #1 Small City in the World six different times by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.The "Four Cs" of Relocation: A breakdown of why expats flock to this cultural hub: Culture, Climate, Community, and Cost of Living.Ditching the Car for a Walkable Life: What it's like to live in a highly social, dense European-style village where your daily commute involves running into neighbors and pausing for impromptu Aztec street dances.Purpose Over Retirement: Why "living the good life" doesn't mean doing nothing. Greg explores the town's 120+ active non-profits, world-class bilingual writers' conferences, international film festivals, and thriving local wine district.Debunking the Safety Myth: The reality of safety and security within this protected cultural bubble.In Greg's Words:"I always tell people, 'You know, I'm not really selling real estate here, I'm selling a lifestyle. I don't sell sticks and bricks, it's the lifestyle that I'm selling here.'""We joke—people move to Miami to die, they move to San Miguel de Allende to live, 'cause it's such an active community."Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Greg's Personal & Resource Website: dreamprohomesluxury.comEmail Greg Directly: greg@gregorygunter.comCall Greg (Toll-Free from the US/Canada): 877-878-4141Pop Culture Mentions:Movie Recommendation: Once Upon a Time in Mexico (Filmed 99% on-location in San Miguel de Allende!)Disney's Coco (A beautiful representation of the Día de los Muertos traditions celebrated vividly in town)Join the conversation: Come hang out with us in the Living the Good Life Facebook community for:Episode previewsBonus contentGuest Q&A opportunitiesA community of people choosing to live with more intention and joyJoin the Living the Good Life FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LTGLCommunityEvery episode proudly sponsored by http://SwitchtoUSAMade.comContact Kimberly Henrie at https://livingthegoodlife.us/If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might need a little nudge toward their own version of the good life.
Welcome back to the Dr. Mary Travelbest Guide podcast. The FAQ: While planning a trip to Taiwan and South Korea, someone I was guiding asked, "Is 911 a universal emergency code worldwide?" I looked into this and found a helpful answer. Here's the answer: 911 is not universal. Abroad, the number differs, and sometimes each service has its own. Commonly: 112 in the EU, 112/999 in the UK and Ireland, 000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand, 110/119 in Japan, and 112/119 in South Korea. For Europe, 112 is the key number to remember. It works everywhere in the EU, is free, and will connect you to emergency services from any phone. In the UK, both 999 and 112 work. A few country-specific examples matter because they can trip up travelers. Australia's main emergency number is 000; the government says 112 can also be connected from mobile phones there, but 000 is the primary number. New Zealand uses 111 for police, fire, and ambulance services, and 105 for police non-emergencies. Japan uses 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance. In South Korea, 112 is for police, and 119 for fire/ambulance/medical emergencies. Tourism guidance says you can ask for an interpreter by saying "English please" or "Interpreter please." What else should travelers know beyond the number? Don't assume 911 works overseas. In some places, it may redirect, but don't rely on it. Know the local emergency number before you travel. Always know your location—hotel, street, intersection, train station, or landmark—for fast communication with emergency operators. When calling, clearly state which service you need: police, ambulance, or fire. Save your embassy or consulate number, but call local emergency services first. If you are in the EU, official guidance notes that 112 is free and available on public and mobile phones. One more thing to consider in my response to the question is that emergency numbers are for urgent danger only. Some countries also have non-emergency numbers. For example, New Zealand uses 105 for non-emergency police matters, while the UK uses 101. Knowing that helps you avoid tying up emergency lines. In summary, solo travelers should memorize 112 for Europe, and always look up the emergency number for each country before traveling. This ensures you are prepared for emergencies wherever you go. 60-second confidence challenge Your challenge today, Confidence Challenge, is to be ready for an emergency: A few smart habits help a lot. Before each trip, put the following items in your phone notes and in your bag: local emergency number, hotel address, embassy/consulate contact, travel insurance emergency line, and one family contact. If your phone is locked, add your emergency contacts and any major medical facts to the lock screen or Medical ID. And know the emergency code in that country. If you like today's Confidence Challenge, my book series delves into safety and security, while moving through the 5 steps to solo travel, from easy to more challenging, with foreign language communication tips. You can find the series at the link in the description. See Book A for addressing this concern. Find it on the website at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. I will be doing pre-orders soon for Book C in the series, so please look out for that. Today's destination is Naxos, Greece. The Greek island of Naxos is one of those places that quietly steals your heart. https://www.visitgreece.gr/islands/cyclades/naxos/ If you're a woman over 50 thinking about taking a slightly more adventurous step in your solo travel journey, this is your place. Not too crowded, not too complicated, but just enough unknown to stretch you in the best way. Let's start with the journey. I took the Blue Star ferry from Athens around noon, passing through Paros on the way. Round-trip from Athens port was about $85 with a Eurail discount of 30% The ferry ride is part of the experience. It's calm. It's scenic. It gives you time to sit, read, think, or do nothing at all. And for many of us, doing nothing is the hardest and most valuable skill to relearn. The hotel where I stayed was called the Galina, a short 300-meter walk from the water and beach. It was run by two brothers whose parents founded it over 40 years ago. The room was delightful, and the location was excellent. The breakfast I had the morning before leaving was perfect, featuring all the delicious Greek foods I wanted to try, and I ate my fill. It was included in the room price, which was about $85 US, and it was definitely worth it because I completely relaxed and enjoyed my stay. During my time on Naxos, I went swimming twice and enjoyed walking around the island. I loved getting lost while exploring the shops selling a variety of merchandise like T-shirts and knick-knacks. it was a treat! I didn't buy anything, but just looking around made me feel great. I also had a nice dinner at a restaurant called Taverna, which cost $21. I ordered shrimp served on a plate with rice and salad, along with skewers of meat (souvlaki). Naxos is not a rush through destination. I swam twice at St. George Beach. I wandered the old town and got completely lost in the castle area, the Venetian Astro district. And here's something worth questioning: When was the last time you allowed yourself to get lost on purpose? No Google Maps. No urgency. Just curiosity. Because that's where confidence grows, not in perfect plans, but in small uncertainties. I'll talk more about getting lost in my mistakes later on. "On an island, it's usually easy to find your way back" was one of my thoughts while exploring. One of my favorite moments was hiking up St. George Hill, past an abandoned restaurant, to catch the sunset. The place was run down, with graffiti and weeds that made it look cluttered. But the views were magnificent. No crowds. No ticket. Just a view that reminded me why I travel. And then there's the Portara, the Temple of Apollo. Just a 10–15 minute walk from town, sitting dramatically at the edge of the sea. It's iconic—but still peaceful if you time it right. https://explore-naxosisland.com/places/baco https://www.xwhos.com/record_labels/1/naxos.html One day, something unexpected: a conversation at the beach with an Aussie man who was on the construction project for a bar on the seafront called Baco Seaside, 4.4 stars. You never know who you may run into at the beach. For details, James was 32, bald, and a good storyteller. He has no idea I travel the world and write about it for women like you. We watched each other's belongings when we wanted to go swimming. Never leave your items on the beach unattended. .https://explore-naxosisland.com/places/baco Travel introduces you to people you were never supposed to meet, and yet somehow you do. If I had more time, and you should plan for it, I would visit: More beaches beyond St. George and The museums in the Venetian castle. Here is more of the history you will learn while in the area. Naxos is a Greek island in the South Aegean, the largest of the Cyclades (sic la deeze), spelled Cyclades, a group of islands. Its fertile landscape spans mountain villages, ancient ruins, and long stretches of beach. The namesake capital (also called Hora or Chora) is a port town filled with whitewashed, cube-shaped houses and medieval Venetian mansions. Kastro, a hilltop castle dating to the 13th century, houses an archaeological museum. https://www.xwhos.com/record_labels/1/naxos.html Let's talk about Greek, yes, the language. I tried. I really did for fifteen days on Duolingo. However, I still struggled.And here's the truth: you don't need to be fluent. But you do need to be willing to try—and to feel a little uncomfortable. That's part of Step 5 travel. Greek is harder to learn than I thought. I've been using Greek Duolingo for the past 15 days, but it hasn't helped me as much as I hoped. It has been an experience nonetheless; I've learned a few Greek letters, but I still struggle to pronounce any words. Here are three I practiced. Gia sas Yah sahs is hello Parakalo is "pah rah kah Lott" is pleased Efharisto is ef hah ree stoh is thank you Don't underestimate Naxos. Give it at least 2–3 nights. Because when a place makes you feel relaxed that quickly, that's rare. If you're building your confidence as a solo traveler in Greece as a Step 5 newbie, Start with a place like Naxos. Easy ferry access Walkable town Safe, welcoming vibe Plenty to do—but no pressure to do it all Are you traveling to check off places on a list… or actually to feel something? Here is why many travelers end up loving Naxos: It gives you sand, swimming, and a real town. It has more of a lived-in, less staged feeling than some headline islands. You can combine beach time, sunset views, old alleys, and inland villages without needing a huge travel plan. Or expense. It works well for people who want Greece to feel pleasant and manageable. When Naxos is not the best pick: Pick Crete if you want the deepest mix of archaeology, cities, dramatic nature, and a longer, road-trip-style island trip. Pick Sardinia if your main goal is exceptional Italian beaches and a larger standalone Mediterranean holiday. Pick Santorini if the caldera views are the whole point. Pick Mykonos if nightlife and scene matter a lot. Naxos is often the better island for people who actually want to relax and feel Greece, not just check off the most famous name. My missteps: Getting lost in Athens The hostel manager pointed outside. "Don't go that way when you leave," and I did not ask for details, assuming it was a bad area with a high crime rate. I did get lost a few times nearby, though, finding my way back. I may have walked that way by accident. Here's my detailed story: I found the metro station from the airport, which served the modern, faster blue line. I changed lines at Monastiraki and arrived at Omonia Square, but I got a bit lost. The neighborhood was quite confusing and not very safe, with only small markets around. I felt scared at times. One night after returning from Naxos, it was 9:15 PM and dark when I finally reached the hostel, safe and ready for another day. AI was used to select some of the suggestions for this episode. Connect with Dr. Travelbest 5 Steps to Solo Travel website Dr. Mary Travelbest X Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast Dr. Travelbest on TikTok Dr.Travelbest on YouTube In the news
Paul Stout — urbanist creator and landscape designer — is back in good traffic this week for a conversation about making urbanism foundational, why the most successful design work often goes unnoticed, and what it takes to translate complex spatial ideas into social media messages that resonate. After a content hiatus and returning with videos that've caught fire, Paul reflects on how the standardized suburban American experience creates a massively untapped audience waiting to discover their daily frustrations have names — and sometimes solutions.Timeline:00:00 Paul Stout returns to the show.02:47 Back making videos on Instagram after time away.03:35 Making urbanism accessible.04:21 The suburban teen Bloomberg CityLab article.05:12 Why the standardized US experience creates relatability.06:36 Building a precedent library for video content.08:23 Reading and being interested for years.09:14 Reverse engineering for people with no education on the topic.10:16 The Central Park "they just left it as is" misconception.11:33 Every square inch of Central Park is planned and maintained.12:43 You don't know what you don't know.13:39 Why landscape architecture is ripe for storytelling.16:54 The best work goes unnoticed when it feels natural.21:10 Showcasing expensive neighborhoods.25:31 Learning to see the world differently.28:27 Parks that receive less funding than Central Park.31:15 People still love their local park despite underfunding.34:12 The sleeper pick: Inwood Hill Park.37:00 Topography making you forget you're in a city.40:15 The commute question returns.43:03 Best commute ever: biking to University of Salzburg.46:33 Fully separated bike infrastructure next to a river with Alps backdrop.49:21 Why Salzburg might not be on your TripAdvisor list.52:24 No map shows architecturally interesting spaces within cities.55:12 Ryan Johnson's advice: go to the oldest part of town.56:01 The tightest streets and most walkable areas.58:04 Urban renewal contrast near historic districts.59:35 Wrapping up and following Paul's work.Links:Follow Paul, on Instagram.Follow Paul, on TikTok.Follow Paul, on YouTube.
Suzanne Howard was playing around with Google Maps one day and zoomed in on Concord, in the east bay. She noticed a large open space near Concord High School that wasn't labeled, but had some mysterious looking mounds in a grid pattern. What are those things, she wondered? And, what's being done with this space? Could housing be built there? In fact, a massive redevelopment project is in the works in Concord, but it could take decades to materialize. Additional Resources: Why It's Taken Concord 40 Years to Turn a Bomb Site into a Neighborhood Read the transcript for this episode Why Are There So Many Abandoned Military Bases in the Bay Area? Surprising Ways Former Bay Area Military Bases Are Transforming (And Why It Takes So Long) Sign up for our newsletter Got a question you want answered? Ask! Your support makes KQED podcasts possible. You can show your love by going to https://kqed.org/donate/podcastsThis story was reported by Pauline Bartolone. Bay Curious is made by Katrina Schwartz, Christopher Beale and Olivia Allen-Price. Additional support from Jen Chien, Katie Sprenger, Maha Sanad, Ethan Toven-Lindsey and everyone on Team KQED. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sometimes the best Disney trips aren't the ones where you do the most… They're the ones where you finally slow down enough to feel it. This week on the podcast, I sat down with my longtime buddy Bubba—a true Geekin' family member—who came back to Walt Disney World after stepping away for a while… and had a trip that completely changed his perspective. And honestly… this one stuck with me. Planning a Trip? If you're thinking about planning your next Disney vacation and some Epic Universe… My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin' Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners. Whether you're booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond… They'll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish. Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still get expert tips, strategy, and support — and it's a great way to support the show. TravelinTiaras@gmail.comOr reach out on Facebook Messenger. And right now… there are great opportunities for upcoming travel, so it's a perfect time to start planning. Featuring Bubba Bubba has been part of this community for years—but this trip? This one was different. After going to Disney constantly for a stretch, he stepped away for a bit. And when he came back… everything felt new again. Not because the parks changed— But because he did. A Different Kind of Disney Trip This wasn't about rope dropping rides or stacking Lightning Lanes. This was about: Resort hopping at a relaxed pace Sitting in Adirondack chairs for 45 minutes doing absolutely nothing Trying new experiences like boating on Seven Seas Lagoon Enjoying quiet moments at places like Port Orleans French Quarter And that's where things started to shift. French Quarter—something he never expected to love—ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip. Small. Peaceful. Walkable. Sometimes… that's all you need. Doing Less… and Getting More Here's the wild part: Bubba didn't even ride Guardians. Didn't ride Tron. Didn't chase every big attraction. And you know what? He didn't miss it. Instead, he leaned into: After Hours events to ride what mattered Unique experiences like Keys to the Kingdom Incredible food moments (yes… including that legendary cookie dough ice cream sandwich) And simply being present The Moment That Changed Everything But like always… the heart of the trip wasn't the rides. It was something deeper. During the trip, Bubba shared the story of losing his brother—the person who first introduced him to Disney through Beauty and the Beast. And then… one night… On a quiet carriage ride… They crested a hill just as Beauty and the Beast was ending across the water. Perfect timing. No planning. Just one of those moments. The kind that makes you stop and feel like… Maybe there's something more going on here. Why This Trip Meant More That moment set the tone for everything that followed. This trip became about: Connection Reflection Slowing down And appreciating where your Disney story began Because sometimes… Disney isn't about what you do. It's about what you feel while you're there. Final Thoughts This episode is a reminder that there's no “right way” to do Disney. You can go hard… Or you can slow it down… But if you're open to it— The magic will meet you where you are. Patreon Love To our Patreon family—thank you for being such an incredible part of this community. Your support keeps this show going and helps us continue sharing these stories. Listen Now You can find this episode wherever you listen to podcasts: Apple Podcasts Spotify And all major platforms The post 17 Resorts, No Rush, and One Magical Moment We'll Never Forget With Bubba Mack – Ep 665 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
Can you walk to the grocery store or commute to work on foot? For many Philadelphians, this isn't possible. But the city keeps receiving high ranks from publications for being pedestrian-friendly, and is often referred to as a walkable city. So host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón discuss what makes a city walkable – and better yet, what could make our city more accessible by foot. For a list of walking groups in Philly, check out today's newsletter. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting
How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC | Ultimate Walkable Travel GuideIn this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through a full 4-night-3-day, no-car travel guide to Victoria, BC—perfect for a long weekend on Vancouver Island. From ferry mishaps and transport hacks to standout brunch spots, coffee culture, and celiac-friendly eats, this is a practical, real-world itinerary you can actually follow.You'll hear exactly how we navigated the city on foot and public transport, including costs, timing, and what's truly worth your time. We explore cultural highlights like the Royal BC Museum, wander through Chinatown Victoria—the oldest in Canada—and walk the iconic Fan Tan Alley. Expect plenty of coffee stops, coastal walks, and honest takes on popular spots.This guide is ideal for budget travellers, backpackers, and anyone visiting Victoria without a car, with loads of tips to help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your time.Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
Alex Montero is a Local Conversation lead at Strong Towns Chicago, a local chapter of Strong Towns, an organization that seeks to replace America's postwar pattern of development, the Suburban Experiment, with a pattern of development that is financially strong and resilient. He is an urbanist nerd who loves walkable neighborhoods and public transit.
A plan to end pedestrian deaths worked in Europe – why has it failed here? Rachel Weiner, local transportation reporter for The Washington Post, joins host Krys Boyd to discuss why foot traffic on American streets is dangerous and why – despite an effort to curb that called Vision Zero – it's gotten worse. Her article is “America's plan to protect pedestrians failed. A young woman's death reveals why.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Walkable neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, the sheer bounty of it all. City living isn't for everyone, but it's amazing for the people who want it. Unless, that is, they also want a family.Today's cities are designed for demographic churn — as a rest stop en route to the suburbs, rather than a place you can live a full life. That's bad for families and for America. Bobby Fijan is one of the people trying to fix that. He is the co-founder of The American Housing Corporation, a real estate development company building affordable, family-sized rowhomes in cities across America.Fijan joins host Megan McArdle to explain how urban housing pushed families out of cities and how his company plans to bring them back.Subscribe to The Washington Post here.
Jan Goetgeluk, founder and CEO of Virtuix (VTIX), discusses the company's IPO and its “omnidirectional” treadmills and VR products. He explains why it was time to IPO, including giving it access to public capital to help scale their products. Virtuix's system enables physical movement in AI-generated environments, allowing users to walk through video games. Their segments include video gaming along with military and enterprise applications. “Photorealistic” worlds are one of their “breakthrough developments” using AI. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
As much of the northern U.S. shivers through subzero wind chills, this episode argues that waiting for ideal conditions is exactly what keeps most people from ever establishing durable mobility habits at all.We touch on the psychology of habit formation, explaining why starting a walking routine during perfect weather in May or September sets you up for abandonment when conditions change. If you can walk in January, February becomes manageable. March feels like a gift. By the time summer arrives, the habit is unshakeable. We draw parallels to gym routines built during breaks that collapse when real schedules resume, and make the pitch that the key to year-round walking isn't willpower — it's starting when it's hard and letting everything else feel easy by comparison.We also touch on: Why the most walkable cities are often in harsh climates. The social layer of walking with friends in cold weather. How small tasks become accomplishments when the weather is terrible. And, what to expect from the show in 2026.*Obviously, use good judgement when walking in extreme cold. Be safe out there, and layer up. Timeline:00:00 Into 2026.01:03 What to expect from the show this year.02:34 Short-form video returns in 2026.04:00 New Year's resolution: asking for reviews.06:27 Negative five-degree wind chill in Columbus.07:22 How we move around our spaces.08:26 The winter walking habit.10:44 Why walking in the cold is worth it.12:53 Building habits under difficult conditions.14:38 The mistake of waiting for ideal weather.18:12 The pitch: start walking this winter.19:42 Cold weather doesn't have to be perilous.20:31 The social layer of walking long distances.21:23 Walkable cities in harsh climates.22:20 Winter is not a barrier to multimodal culture.22:56 Wrapping up.
In this talk, I share why walkable cities are overrated. In my opinion, when the going gets tough, you want a car. CONQUER SHYNESS
Why do modern neighborhoods feel disconnected, car-dependent, and soulless?In this episode of Commercially Speaking, we sit down with Austin Tunnell, founder of Building Culture, to talk about real estate development, walkable communities, architecture, and how the built environment shapes human behavior.Austin shares his journey from Big 4 accounting at KPMG to quitting everything, traveling Europe, joining the Peace Corps, learning traditional building by hand, and becoming a developer focused on creating beautiful, human-scale neighborhoods.This episode covers:Walkable neighborhood design vs suburban sprawlWhy modern architecture lost beauty and durabilityMixed-use development, community-centered design, and urban planningHow zoning laws and incentives shaped American suburbsReal estate development with values-aligned investorsWhy efficiency alone is hurting cities and communitiesHow buildings influence culture, behavior, and belongingIf you're interested in real estate investing, urban planning, architecture, community development, or building better neighborhoods, this conversation will change how you see cities forever.
A Year of Adventure: Why 2025 Set the Bar High2025 was stacked. International trips, deep dives into U.S. cities, mountain towns, beach escapes, national parks, and friendships that only happen when you travel together. From Europe to the Caribbean to coast-to-coast U.S. adventures, this year reminded us why we started The Travel Brats in the first place:Travel opens doors—to places, people, and moments you never forget.
Communities that endure rarely happen by accident. They are shaped by intentional design and a deep understanding of place. Lew Oliver, founder and principal of Lew Oliver, Inc., joins Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to share his perspective on traditional neighborhood development and the long-term value of thoughtful planning. What does “timeless” really mean in today's housing market? For Oliver, timeless design is not rooted in architectural trends or short-term market appeal. Instead, it is a disciplined approach that places the town — not the individual building — at the center of every decision. A truly timeless place accommodates a wide range of people, lifestyles and life stages while maintaining coherence and character over generations. Oliver often looks to older, storied cities around the world for inspiration. Oliver said, “The things that made these iconic towns were that the buildings were absolutely stunning and well designed and executed, and they shaped the entire community in ways that just single houses could never do.” That philosophy extends beyond massing and layout to the finer points of design. Oliver emphasizes the importance of architectural detailing that feels generous and intentional, with buildings that contribute to the public realm rather than retreat from it. In well-designed towns, staircases, porches and facades extend into streets and plazas, reinforcing a sense of shared space and civic life. Materials also play a critical role in achieving longevity. Local materials are often preferred because they weather gracefully over time, gaining character rather than appearing dated as styles change. Timeless places resist easy categorization because they are grounded in enduring principles rather than fleeting tastes. What is traditional neighborhood development? At the heart of Oliver's work is traditional neighborhood development (TND), a planning approach that prioritizes people, relationships and daily experience over traffic counts and lot yield. “Traditional neighborhood development means that the placement and the detailing of the buildings support creating great places and great streets that prioritize the pedestrian over the car.” That shift in priority has cascading effects on how communities are planned and built. Elements such as rear-loaded alleys, narrower streets, front-facing porches and carefully proportioned setbacks serve as essential tools for creating social streetscapes, allowing homes and buildings to engage the sidewalk directly. In contrast, auto-centric environments often place buildings behind parking lots and wide roadways, making meaningful interaction nearly impossible. In those settings, scale is dictated by speed and vehicle movement rather than human perception, frequently resulting in isolation despite physical proximity. Walkable streets and well-defined public spaces naturally encourage casual encounters — neighbors meeting on a porch, residents stopping to talk on a sidewalk or people lingering in shared green spaces. Oliver describes these everyday interactions as foundational to building trust, belonging and community resilience. Tune into the full episode for deeper insight into timeless placemaking, traditional neighborhood development and why human-scale design continues to resonate. Learn more about Lew Oliver and his work at www.lewoliverinc.com. About Lew Oliver, Inc. Lew Oliver, Inc. is an Atlanta-area design and master planning firm that creates thoughtful, human-centered communities and building plans rooted in principles of New Urbanism. The company specializes in whole town solutions, architectural products and developer services that integrate walkability, contextual design and environmental responsiveness. Its work emphasizes authentic design and harmonious proportions that enhance quality of life. Podcast Thanks Thank you to Denim Marketing for sponsoring Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio. Known as a trendsetter, Denim Marketing has been blogging since 2006 and podcasting since 2011. Contact them when you need quality, original content for social media, public relations, blogging, email marketing and promotions. A comfortable fit for companies of all shapes and sizes, Denim Marketing understands marketing strategies are not one-size-fits-all. The agency works with your company to create a perfectly tailored marketing strategy that will suit your needs and niche. Try Denim Marketing on for size by calling 770-383-3360 or by visiting www.DenimMarketing.com. About Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, presented by Denim Marketing, highlights the movers and shakers in the Atlanta real estate industry – the home builders, developers, Realtors and suppliers working to provide the American dream for Atlantans. For more information on how you can be featured as a guest, contact Denim Marketing at 770-383-3360 or fill out the Atlanta Real Estate Forum contact form. Subscribe to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast on iTunes, and if you like this week's show, be sure to rate it. Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio was recently honored on FeedSpot's Top 100 Atlanta Podcasts, ranking 16th overall and number one out of all ranked real estate podcasts. The post Lew Oliver: How Traditional Neighborhood Development & Walkability Intersect appeared first on Atlanta Real Estate Forum.
In this episode, we dive deep into family-friendly travel in southern Spain with Addie from @InPursuitofPoints who is sharing exactly what it's like to visit magical and idyllic Granada with kids while maximizing points and minimizing stress. We cover everything from navigating the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens with young children, including stroller logistics and timed entry tips, to getting around town affordably by taxi, bus, or on foot. You'll hear what to expect from Granada's food scene, including tapas culture, budget-friendly dining, and how an unforgettable Airbnb with a private terrace and Alhambra views became a highlight of the trip. We also talk weather considerations, siesta culture, walkability, must-see sights like the Granada Cathedral, and how much time you really need to experience the city. To wrap things up, we dig into Addie's recent credit card strategy. If you're considering Spain with kids or want inspiration for building incredible trips around points and miles, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world experience.Episode SponsorCardPointersFind Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogMentioned in this Episode:Addie's AirbnbAlhambra Official Website for booking ticketsAffiliate Links:Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!
Megan Ramey has advocated for kid-friendly transportation for over a decade, culminating in her role as the Safe Routes to School Manager for Hood River County, Oregon. Megan and Tiffany discuss the importance of walkability and bikeability for children, and Megan shares lessons she's learned from advocating in cities as big as Boston and towns as small as Hood River. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Local Recommendations: Historic Columbia River Highway Ten Speed Coffee Shop Love and Hominy Walk And Roll Hood River County Schools (site) Bikeabout (site) Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram) Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here! This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.
In the first half  Nedra speaks with Pascal Picard who is cycling from Alaska to Patagonia and making a film about individuals and projects that use outdoor activities to create a more just and sustainable world. In the second half our guest is Portlander Robert Ping who has been a tireless bicycle advocate for over 25 years. Among the groups he has worked with are the Walkable and Livable Communities Institute and the Safe Routes to School National Partnership. Robert is also a home builder and a musician with the band Mellow Rebels.
In this episode, Carter interviews Casey Roloff, CEO, and Jeff Gundersen, CFO, of Seabrook Land Company to explore their journey in building thriving, walkable, new urbanist communities in the Pacific Northwest. In This Episode You'll Learn: How Seabrook's team incrementally develops and finances walkable, connected, and enduring communities by leveraging pre-sales and creative capital strategies. The unique amenity approach of making the town itself the main amenity, including retail incubation techniques and fostering vibrant town centers. Strategies for integrating "missing middle" housing typologies to support affordability and socioeconomic diversity within a planned neighborhood. The critical role of on-site hospitality, community governance, and long-term investment in delivering a cohesive homeowner and guest experience. Key lessons learned from decades of development, including Seabrook's biggest surprises, planning and entitlement challenges, and the value of building communities for all generations. Show Notes E – casey@seabrookwa.com E – jeff@seabrookwa.com W – www.seabrookwa.com Plus: Whenever you're ready here are 4 ways Launch can help you with your project: Prepare a Special Tax District Bond Analysis for your Project – If you have a projects in AZ, CA, CO, ID, NC, NM, SC, TN, TX, UT, WA contact Carter Froelich (ADD MY EMAIL LINK) and have Launch prepare an initial bond analysis for your project. Add Favorable Financing Language to Annexation and/or Development Agreements – Create certainty and flexibility related to your project's infrastructure financing by having Launch professionals prepare handcrafted favorable financing language for inclusion in your Annexation and/or Development Agreement. Perform The RED Analysis™ on your Project – We have developed a unique process at Launch called The RED Analysis™ in which we perform a diagnostic review of your project to determine possible ways to Reduce, Eliminate and Defer infrastructure construction costs in order to enhance project returns. Track Your Reimbursable Costs Utilizing The Launch Reimbursement System™ ("LRS") – Never lose track of your district eligible reimbursable costs and have Launch manage your district's costs reimbursement tracking, preparation of electronic reimbursement submittal packages and processing of your reimbursement requests with the district, jurisdiction and/or agency. Complimentary Offers for Land to Lots™ ListenersComplimentary Land to Lots book: https://www.launch-mpc.com/offer Complimentary Bond Sizing Analysis: https://form.jotform.com/231376408765160 Carter Froelich hosts the Land to Lots™ podcast powered by Launch Development Finance Advisors. Carter shares how he and his team help their clients finance infrastructure, reduce costs, and mitigate risks all with the goal of enhancing project profitability Land to Lots™ is a registered trademark of Launch Development Finance Advisors
The Plaza's new owner, Gillon Property Group, recently submitted plans to Kansas City outlining its vision for the future of the district. The group wants to make the area more friendly to pedestrians and increase the allowable height of buildings, in a process that will take several years.
Ryan Short — author of the new book The Civic Brand, and founder of place-branding firm Civic Brand — joins the show this week for a discussion on how cities can more meaningfully define their brand. The term has been used and overused in almost every industry imaginable, and yet, Ryan argues the importance of the idea at its root. Particularly, for places.Through this, we spend time on the lifecycle of a cliché, and how cities of various sizes can and should) go about avoiding becoming one.The new book zooms in, and surveys places that have done the work around brand intentionally, across the states. It's a great starting spot for folks in and around local government, and citizens alike. Timeline:00:00 Ryan Short is in good traffic.03:14 Cities at the tipping point with brand.04:55 Why Ryan wrote The Civic Brand.07:31 An Alaska project and triple bottom line.09:37 Tourism vs. place management.10:25 Listening to locals, not just departments.12:00 Branding as a tool for equity and alignment.13:18 Urbanism and marketing.15:06 Walkable cities vs. livable cities.17:15 Who the book is for — civic leaders to citizens.19:17 Libraries, Dewey Decimal, and early feedback.21:13 Marketing professionals and the shift toward destination management.23:20 How local culture actually drives big decisions.27:54 Power, culture, and the street-level brand.29:18 Balancing capitalism, people, and place.32:08 Density as environmentalism.33:53 Realism over idealism.34:38 When words lose meaning — “brand” and “place.”38:06 “Keep Austin Weird” and what it really means.39:09 Religion, symbols, and the depth of meaning.41:35 Making “welcoming” real in the built environment.43:28 Incongruities between vision and reality.44:10 Brand as civic north star.46:39 Why alignment matters.47:32 How to start civic alignment locally.49:18 Housing, universities, and shared goals.52:16 “Civic alignment” as the real message.52:54 The thesis chapter — start with Chapter 1.53:36 Commute — living and walking in Salida, CO.55:48 Wrapping up.For context:Buy the book.Ryan's firm: Civic Brand.
Story Rolling: Outdoor Wheelchair Access Guest Tina Guenette, Founder, President and CEO of RAMP ( Real Access Motivates Progress) An astonishing number of people rely on wheelchairs and mobility aids... veterans disabled in war... young victims of driving accidents... patients harmed by failed medical procedures... people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases... elderly moving from a cane to a walker and on to a wheel chair, as their bodies age and weaken... and pediatric brain cancer patients being wheeled around in strollers. We all know someone, and yet we are unlikely to see many of these people out and about, because so much of the environment is ill designed for those with restricted mobility. Guest Tina Guenette explains the massive scope of such limited accessibility and brings the bigger story out into the light. Tina is the founder of RAMP, which stands for Real Access Motivates Progress. RAMP is a national non-profit dedicated to smashing barriers for people with disabilities. The organization champions accessibility and promotes equal opportunities through innovation, advocacy and education, fostering a more equitable future for citizens with mobility disabilities. Tina is both a motivational speaker and a living testament to the power of perseverance. After surviving four battles with cancer, multiple strokes and heart attacks, Tina faced her greatest challenge in 2014, when a spinal stroke during routine surgery left her paralyzed from the waist down. Her firsthand experience, navigating a world not built for her, ignited a fire to educate, empower and create systemic change. Refusing to let her wheelchair define her limits, Tina channeled her journey into action and founded RAMP in 2019. As its President and CEO, she fights tirelessly to transform inaccessible spaces and mindsets, proving that true progress begins with inclusion. She shows how we can all make a difference for those less mobile than us, and her impact has earned nationwide acclaim. INFORMATION RESOURCES Visit the RAMP website - https://www.rampisinclusion.org/ Download the AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit - https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/getting-around/aarp-walk-audit-tool-kit.html Learn how to assess and report on the safety, walkability and wheelability of a street, intersection or neighborhood — and inspire needed change. Download an AARP Street Use Worksheet https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/livable-communities/getting-around/2022/walk-audit-worksheets-english/2%20Who%E2%80%99s%20Using%20the%20Street%20%E2%80%94%20and%20Why-fillable.pdf Download an AARP Walk Audit Worksheet https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/getting-around/aarp-walk-audit-worksheets-english/ Find other worksheets - https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/getting-around/aarp-walk-audit-worksheets-english/ These worksheets help guide real world infrastructure assessments. Learn more about Walktober - https://states.aarp.org/rhode-island/stepping-up-for-safety-access-in-providence Visit the Providence Streets Coalition website - https://pvdstreets.org/ RELATED EPISODES Walk & Roll to School: The Positive Environmental and Health Impacts https://dreamvisions7radio.com/walk-roll-to-school/ Great Streets: Safe, Walkable, Bikable, Equitable and Sociable https://dreamvisions7radio.com/great-streets/ Purchase Wendy's book, The Angel Heart - https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Wendy-Nadherny-Fachon/dp/1967270279/ref=sr_1_1 Read about DIPG: Eternal Hope Versus Terminal Corruption by Dean Fachon begin to uncover the truth about cancer - https://dipgbook.com/ Learn more at https://netwalkri.com email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or call 401 529-6830. Connect with Wendy to order copies of Fiddlesticks, The Angel Heart or Storywalker Wild Plant Magic Cards. Subscribe to Wendy's blog Writing with Wendy at www.wendyfachon.blog. Join Wendy on facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/StoryWalkingRadio
This week on Power House, Zeb Lowe sits down with Amy Stockberger, the broker, owner, and team leader of Amy Stockberger Real Estate. Amy has built a powerhouse operation that dominates 10% of her local market share in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, earning RealTrends' #33 national ranking by sides. Her secret weapon? A revolutionary "lifetime home support model" that transforms clients into walking, talking billboards through authentic human-to-human connection. Amy shares how she identified a critical gap in her business: clients weren't returning for repeat business or referrals despite excellent transaction service. This led her to develop a comprehensive support system that extends far beyond the closing table, creating genuine lifetime value for clients while helping her agents build referable, scalable, and sellable businesses. She also dives into the massive opportunity ahead with the "silver tsunami" and how smart agents can capitalize on mini mergers and acquisitions to acquire profitable market share through relationship-based leads. Here's what you'll learn: How Amy's lifetime home support model helped her team achieve 10% market share and 7+ year agent tenure Why the future belongs to agents who embrace "H2H" (human-to-human) connection over pure tech solutions The four pillars of future-proofing your business: systemized, automated, delegated, or deleted How to turn exiting agents' books of business into profitable market share with 80-90% capture rates The strategic framework for evaluating lender partnerships in an advisory-focused market How relational tech and AI can unlock hidden monetization opportunities in existing databases Related to this episode: The Amy Stockberger Team | RealTrends Verified Amy Stockberger Real Estate Amy Stockberger Real Estate | LinkedIn HousingWire | YouTube Enjoy the episode! The Power House podcast brings the biggest names in housing to answer hard-hitting questions about industry trends, operational and growth strategy, and leadership. Join HousingWire president Diego Sanchez every Thursday morning for candid conversations with industry leaders to learn how they're differentiating themselves from the competition. Hosted and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Looking for brand-new construction in the East Bay with modern design, flexible layouts, and access to top-rated schools? City Village by SummerHill Homes in San Ramon offers a rare opportunity to enjoy new homes in one of the Bay Area's most desirable and family-friendly cities.
How walkable is your neighborhood?When it comes to walkability, locals have shared a range of experiences depending where they live. But what does it mean to live in a truly walkable city?Tuesday on Midday Edition, we dig into what walkability looks like in San Diego and what is being done from a policy and community standpoint to address it.Guests:Bruce Appleyard, associate professor of City Planning and Urban Design, SDSUCarlisle Dockery, director of planning and community engagement, Circulate San DiegoIsrael Hernandez, associate director for advocacy and engagement, AARP San Diego
A majority of new housing across the San Diego County is being planned within the city's urban core, which is walkable. Also, we have advice from an infectious disease doctor on COVID vaccinations. Then, a gap between girls and boys in math test scores. Finally, we take you to the ribbon cutting of the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center.
This week, we spend time on the hype (and the pitfalls) of those endless “top ten cities for ...” lists. They're catchy, shareable, and often the first thing people see when they think about moving or traveling. But do they actually tell us much about what it's like to live car-lite or car-free in American cities?So, instead of telling you our top ten cities to move to, we came up with a different list: five practical protocols to quickly gauge walkability when visiting a new city.Timeline:00:00 Why “walkable city” lists are everywhere.02:00 Columbus named #4 most walkable to visit?!04:00 Why lists are misleading for people considering a move.05:00 How I travel: living like a local for 24–48 hours.06:00 The walk-everywhere test.06:30 Ads and billboards as local cultural signals.09:00 Game-day infrastructure and movement patterns.12:30 Stadium design.13:00 Travel in both the best and worst seasons.15:40 Hotel districts vs. neighborhoods.19:00 The mid-block crosswalk litmus test.22:00 Culture of drivers in Portland, Minneapolis, Vancouver.24:00 Why a higher-floor matters.25:00 Bonus: the airport-to-city connection.26:30 Wrapping up.
Walk & Roll to School: The Positive Environmental and Health Impacts Guests: Stephen Heiny, research associate, Highway Safety Research Center, University of North Carolina (UNC), and Ishaa Gadkari, State Physical Activity Coordinator, RI Department of Health - Healthy Eating and Active Living Program (HEAL). In 1969, 48 percent of students in grades K-8 walked or rode a bike to school. In 2017, only 11 percent of students in grades K-8 eight walked or rode bikes to school. Research studies identify safety concerns as the primary reason for the decrease. Safety considerations include traffic volume and speed, sidewalk and crosswalk infrastructure, incidents of crime and levels of policing. In this episode, we talk about how to redesign community environments in ways that support safe routes to school and events like the National Walk & Roll to School Day, an annual October event. We also discuss the environmental and health benefits of walking to school. Stephen Heiny joins us from the Highway Safety Research Center. He focuses on youth active travel safety, Vision Zero and the Safe System approach, supporting safety efforts in North Carolina and across the United States. He evaluates speed reduction countermeasures, provides technical assistance for Safe Routes to School programs and supports the annual Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day events. Ishaa Gadkari joins us from the RI Department of Health. As the State Physical Activity Coordinator, she directs the Healthy Eating and Active Living Program (HEAL). Ishaa specializes in projects related to the built environment, active transportation and physical activity. She is passionate about walkable cities and environments, public transportation and health policy. She supports city and town fun runs and walks, Safe Routes to School, Walking School Bus and Safe Routes to Parks. INFORMATION RESOURCES Register Your School for Walk & Roll Day - https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/ This website provides resources for planning and publicizing your event. Download STEM lessons on Pedestrian Safety from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) website: https://highways.dot.gov/safety/pedestrian-bicyclist/step/step-stem-lessons Lessons include real-world examples of the key concepts, hands-on activities including building mock streetscapes and calculations for older students. Learn more about Safe Routes to School - https://www.saferoutespartnership.org/safe-routes-school/101/6-Es Read about Bike Buses: Let's Bike to School Together -https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/SRTS_BikeBusGuide_2025.pdf Visit RI's Healthy Eating and Active Living (HEAL) Website - https://health.ri.gov/chronic-conditions/healthy-eating-and-active-living-heal Review HEAL's Strategic Plan - https://health.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur1006/files/publications/strategicplans/2023-2028HealthyEatingAndActiveLiving.pdf Read the article “Walking to Improve Mental Health” - https://tinyurl.com/Walking4MentalHealth Gamify the activity of walking. Read this blog for a few ideas... https://netwalkri.com/walking-journal/f/ecopirate-on-the-cove RELATED EPISODES Great Streets: Safe, Walkable, Bikable, Equitable and Sociable https://dreamvisions7radio.com/great-streets/ Offsetting Schools' Paper Usage, One Tree At a Time https://dreamvisions7radio.com/offsetting-schools-paper-usage/ Purchase Wendy's book, The Angel Heart - https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Wendy-Nadherny-Fachon/dp/1967270279/ref=sr_1_1 Read about DIPG: Eternal Hope Versus Terminal Corruption by Dean Fachon begin to uncover the truth about cancer - https://dipgbook.com/ Learn more at https://netwalkri.com email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or call 401 529-6830. Connect with Wendy to order copies of Fiddlesticks, The Angel Heart or Storywalker Wild Plant Magic Cards. Subscribe to Wendy's blog Writing with Wendy at www.wendyfachon.blog. Join Wendy on facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/StoryWalkingRadio
If you had to dash out for a bottle of milk, could you just stroll to the supermarket? If the answer's yes, you might be living in a 15-minute city. What are these neighbourhoods, exactly, and why do conspiracy theorists hate them?
Canadian travellers face chaos as the country's largest carrier makes moves to suspend operations. A strike and lockout notice have the airline cancelling some flights for tomorrow and warning of much more to come.And: It sounds like a no-brainer — where you live influences how much you move. But a new study shows just how much and why it matters. Researchers tracked thousands of people who moved between cities and found their walking habits shifted with their surroundings. They say it's a powerful case for considering public health in urban design.Also: From How to Train Your Dragon, to Freakier Friday, Happy Gilmore and The Naked Gun — this summer Hollywood is all about rebooting and recycling.Plus: Zelenskyy and European leaders talk with Trump about his upcoming meeting with Russia, eastern Canada on high alert for wildfires, and more.
KVJ throws in their own nominations!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Over the past few years, we've had the privilege of sitting down with visionaries, scientists, designers, farmers, poets, and policymakers. Each conversation has expanded our perspective, encouraging us to see the world through a broader, greener lens.For our 100th episode, we're hitting pause to reflect on this amazing journey so far. We've sifted through the highlights to spotlight the themes and ideas that continue to rise to the surface – insights that feel less like podcast takeaways and more like a blueprint for a saner, more biophilic future.Tune in to learn more and hear from some familiar voices along the way.Show NotesSister Seasons | Regenerate Yourself and the Planet at the Same TimePlanetary Health: Protecting Nature to Protect Ourselves edited by Samuel Myers and Howard FrumkinLocal FuturesPositive Tipping Points (University of Exeter)The Climate Optimist Handbook: How to Shift the Narrative on Climate Change and Find the Courage to Change by Anne Therese Gennari Prioritizing Human Wellness in Architectural Design (Living Architecture Monitor)Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America One Step at a Time by Jeff SpeckNina-Marie ListerTeam Human by Douglas RushkoffThe Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative by Florence WilliamsKeywords: nature, nature based solutions, biophilia, biophilic design, seasons, seasonality, natural cycles, wellness, climate, climate change, climate solutions, architecture, built environment, habitat, human habitat, walkability, walkable, biodiversity, pollinator, pollinator garden, community Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers
Where in the world am I? Brazil planning Hi there. I'm Dr. Mary Travelbest, returning from a recent trip to Asia. I'm in San Diego now, sharing my best travel ideas and working on another book for you to enjoy: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part C. I'm about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world. Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Juliana who is from Brazil. She was a student of mine and now she works with me. She gave me a list of all the places in Brazil that I should be going to.She and I have known each other for 3 years. She's so beautiful and full of life. I'm so grateful for. Quick fire FAQ: The FAQ for today is: Should I carry books with me to read on the trip? I recommend you download them from your local or cloud library. Then you read on the go. Don't carry more than you need. 3 things: neighborhood selection, daylight itineraries, scam avoidance Select neighborhoods that are walkable and have public transportation nearby if you don't drive. Read reviews on the AirBNB website before you select. When booking a flight or train, be sure it arrives at a daylight time, which can differ in winter months. If it comes after dark, it will be more of a challenge for you. To avoid scams, be cautious when choosing passwords, logging out of websites, and making online purchases. These are very typical scams. If you are suspicious, you may be right to avoid that vendor and choose another. Don't look like a target, either Today's destination is: Brazil. Optimized for a budget‑minded solo woman in her 60s who loves beaches, nature, and a relaxed—but organized—pace. Date Overnight Key plans How to get around Budget tips & cautions Rio de Janeiro (Leme / Copacabana) • Easy sunset stroll along Copacabana & watch locals at Arpoador point. • For a light dinner, try a fresh‑juice “sucos” bar and a tapioca crêpe. Take a taxi or Uber from GIG airport (≈ R$75). Choose a sea‑view “quarto feminine” at Selina Copacabana (~US $45 priv.). Keep valuables hidden on the beach. Wed 4 Jun Rio • Christ the Redeemer early (08:00 train from Cosme Velho). • Ride the Santa Teresa Tram then lunch in a colonial café. • Late afternoon cable car up Sugarloaf for golden‑hour photos. Day‑pass on RioCard metro + tram; cable/Uber for Sugarloaf. Buy Sugarloaf ticket online to skip queue; take a light jacket—windy on top. Rio Choose your mini‑escape ① Nature: half‑day to Prainha & Grumari wild beaches (shared van tour). ② Culture: ferry to Niterói for Niemeyer‑designed MAC museum & quiet Itacoatiara beach. ③ History: cool mountain air in imperial Petrópolis (bus 2 h). Tours or local buses; all safe in daylight. Pack reef‑safe sunscreen—Rio's winter sun still strong. Foz do Iguaçu Morning flight RIO → IGU (1 h 45 m; promo fares from US $68 one‑way) Drop bags, then spend the afternoon on the Brazilian side catwalks for sweeping views of Iguazu Falls (entry R$199 ≈ US $39) iguazufalls.com End day at Parque das Aves bird sanctuary (1 hr) iguazufalls.com Bus 120 links airport ↔ falls ↔ downtown. Taxi to hotel after dark. Stay at Tarobá Express (single en‑suite ~US $40, rooftop pool). Foz do Iguaçu Full‑day hop into Argentina's Iguazú National Park for the Devil's Throat boardwalk & eco‑train (passport needed, no visa/fee for US). Evening option: Itaipu Dam illumination tour. Shared shuttle (~US $25 rt) handles border formalities. Bring ARS pesos or pay by card for Arg. park ticket (US $45) iguazufalls.com .São Paulo Morning nonstop IGU → GRU (1 h 35 m; fares from US $56) KAYAK . Walk tree‑lined Paulista Avenue, pop into MASP art museum (free Sun mornings), coffee in Vila Madalena murals. Airport bus to Paulista (R$55) or Uber. Metro is clean & safe in daytime. Base yourself in Ibis Paulista or female pod at Selina Aurora (~US $50). São Paulo • Morning in Ibirapuera Park—rent a bike or visit Afro‑Brasil Museum (opens 10 am) Tripadvisor . • Afternoon at Municipal Market (pastel de bacalhau!) & nearby Pinacoteca gallery. Metro Brigadeiro ↔ Luz. Watch bags on busy Linha 3 Red line; pickpockets work in crowds. São Paulo Relaxed day‑trip choices: ① Santos coast: historic coffee port + beach promenade (1 h 30 m bus). ② Embu das Artes craft town (45 min EMTU bus). Buy a round‑trip bus ticket; depart before dusk. Wed 11 Jun — Free morning for souvenir shopping on Paulista, then head to GRU airport for onward flight. Allow 3 hours pre‑international departure. Essential Practicalities E‑visa now required for U.S. visitors entering Brazil from 10 Apr 2025; online application fee US $80.90 and proof of ≈ US $2 000 funds (3 bank statements) are needed. Apply at least 3 weeks ahead. VFSE Visa New York Post Weather: Early June is Brazil's mild winter—pleasant 72 °F / 22 °C in Rio & São Paulo, warmer at Iguazu (upper 70s °F) with possible mist; pack a light rain shell for the falls. Money: ATMs are plentiful. Withdraw in R$ and use cards where possible. Carry small notes for kiosks, buses, and street food. Health & safety: No yellow fever shot is demanded for the coast, but it is recommended for the Iguazu region. Wear non‑slip shoes on Iguazu catwalks (spray makes surfaces slick). Use registered taxis or ride‑share at night; avoid deserted beach stretches after dark. Language: Basic Portuguese greetings go a long way; Spanish is understood in Iguazu. Learn “Obrigado” (thank you from a woman). Hand‑Picked Stays (private room prices, low‑season) City Comfortable & friendly Approx. US $ Why you'll like it Rio Selina Copacabana (female dorm or priv.), Ibis Budget Botafogo 35–60 24 h desk, beach steps away, rooftop bar. Foz Tarobá Express, Che Lagarto Hostel 35–45 Central, free shuttle to falls stop, tour desk. SP Ibis Paulista, Soul Hostel (single) $45–60. It is Walkable to the metro and lively but safe at night. Quick Activity Bucket‑List Region Must‑do Nice extra Rio Watch sunrise from Leme end of Copacabana; Sugarloaf cable car; caipirinha & bossa‑nova in Lapa. Short jungle hike to Mirante Dois Irmãos for postcard view. Iguazu “Devil's Throat” platform roar; boat‑ride under the falls (waterproof bag!). Evening jungle moon‑bow walk (full‑moon nights only). São Paulo MASP's suspended concrete gallery; bike Ibirapuera lagoon; coffee tasting at Octavio Café. Live samba at Bar Brahma or vinyl jazz in Vila Madalena. Approximate Trip Budget (USD) Category Rio (3 nts) Iguazu (2 nts) São Paulo (3 nts) Total Lodging $150 $80 $150 $380 Flights (internal) — RIO→IGU $68 IGU→GRU $64 $132 Inter‑city buses / ferries $20 $25 (Arg. shuttle) $25 (Santos) $70 Sight tickets & tours $65 $110 $40 $215 Meals & local transit $30/day × 8 $240 Grand estimate ≈ $1 040 (Budget assumes dorm‑style breakfast included and a few splurges; private rooms or extra tours will raise totals.) Enjoy Brazil's unbeatable mix of beach life, rainforest thundering waterfalls, and South America's most cosmopolitan metropolis—at a tempo that feels adventurous yet comfortable. Boa viagem! Smart Move and Slip up pairings Brazil slip ups, are that there's no way I can see all of the country in a week. So I have to be very picky about only going to the Rio and Sao Paolo regions, and possibly Iguazu Falls, if that works out and I am able physically and mentally. Can you figure out A RAH LO Local, regional, and global esims Local towers and networks in that country. Anticipate which eSim you need. Whole wide world 90 days $59 for me. My first time in India, I thought it was part of Asia. I found out that I missed out the night before I was leaving. Supported countries. Read that carefully. It helps you make a decision. My code to get $3.00 off is MARY2856. You get the discount, and I get the credit. Timer won't start counting down until you get to the country you are traveling to, and once it connects, the plan will start—for example, 30 days and 5 Gig. Validity starts when you get there. Refill as needed. 5G devices Watch this video for instructions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi1Cb1tEeSI Resources Roundup How do you travel if you don't know anyone who can go with you, and maybe you want to see some unique places that no one you know cares about? Maybe you want to travel because you never saw these places while you raised your children and supported the family. You may want to visit where you were born and want to do it on your own. You may want to lie on a beach in Tahiti and have a long nap. How does one get to do this? We will help you with instruction, guidance, and good stories. This book must be published now because 14.8% of women are over 65, and most outlive their spouses. Another large chunk of women are in their 50s and early 60s and have years of activity to go. Plus, there are 38 million members of AARP, many looking for active choices on how they live and travel. Gone are the days of your travel agent booking your paper airline ticket. You will not likely contact a travel agent for your trip. The more we understand others and their cultures, the more we can get along with them. Dr. Mary Travelbest is like Rick Steves for Women adventure travelers who are seasoned in years but have yet to gain travel experience. My daughter, my co-author, Tina, and I have been traveling since she was born 22 years ago. She's also made many solo trips, including visiting her sister in China for a month this year. She's completed her degree in Business, working on a Master's degree, and living/working in the San Francisco area. This book needs to be published so the Golden Years can be just that for those who like active travel. The take away mantra is to go and find peace where you rest and bring good to others You can travel solo and never be alone. Dr. Travelbest.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas reports.
Looking for walkable charm, great schools, and Silicon Valley convenience — all in one neighborhood?Welcome to Sunnyvale's Heritage District — a rare blend of historic character, downtown energy, and family-friendly living, right in the heart of the Bay Area.In this series, we spotlight the best neighborhoods across the Bay — so you can explore what it's really like to live like a local. Whether you're relocating, investing, or just dreaming about your next move, this is the place to start.
Fairport has been growing — welcoming new businesses that mix with a range of housing designed for all ages. We talk about the vision of making a truly walkable, bikeable village with a diverse range of options for people who live nearby. Our guests: Julie Domaratz, mayor of the village of Fairport Bryan White, manager of the village of Fairport and general manager of electric operations for Fairport Municipal Commission
Montrose has so much to offer from restaurants and bars to museums and local shops. But it's actually hard to walk around what should be one of Houston's most walkable neighborhoods. A project to overhaul Montrose Boulevard was supposed to help fix that — until Mayor John Whitmire stepped in. Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Houston Public Media's Dominic Anthony Walsh about why the project got political and what it means for folks in Montrose and other Houston neighborhoods. Stories we talked about on today's show: Mayor Whitmire completes overhaul of Montrose TIRZ board after disagreement on redesign Contentious Montrose Boulevard project in Houston draws protest ahead of construction Rebuilding Montrose isn't about trees. It's about time. (Opinion) Protesters outnumber contractors as Montrose Boulevard overhaul gets underway Learn more about the sponsors of this June 10th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Brooke Lewis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What's it like to live in one of the calmest, friendliest, and most community-oriented neighborhoods in all of San Jose?In this series, we take you through the best Bay Area neighborhoods — so you can experience what it's really like to live like a local. Whether you're relocating, investing, or just exploring new areas, this is the BEST vlog series to help you find the right community for your lifestyle!
Куди далі буде розвиватися monobank і чому спроби вийти на інші ринки були невдалими? Як змінилася розробка продукту і чи інтегрують туди Expirenza? Як на компанію вплинуло підвищення податків? Про це співзасновники mono Олег Гороховський та Михайло Рогальський розповіли на головній сцені DOU Day 2025. Інтерв'юер — програмний директор УТ-2 Юра Федоренко. — Книга, яку радить Олег Гороховський: «Усі брешуть, але інтернет знає твої думки» Сета Стівенса-Давідовіца — Книга, яку радить Михайло Рогальський: Вілл Ґідара, «Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect» ⏩ Навігація 00:00 Інтро 00:35 Який план розвитку у mono? 05:59 Чому апка Walkable робиться не в рамках monobank? 07:22 Є «монобаза», яку можна було б вбудувати всередину monobank і підвищити screen time в самому застосунку: чому цього не зробили? 08:52 Expirenza буде інтегрована в monobank? 10:00 Чи вдалось компанії трансформуватися та створити багато кросфункціональних команд? 14:44 Поділивши команди, ви помітили цікаві причинно-наслідкові зв'язки? Наприклад, що iOS-розробники завжди роблять більше багів абощо. 17:12 В mono використовують AI? 20:57 У фінансовій звітності є кости за штучний інтелект чи поки що ні? 21:33 Про створення бізнес-планів 22:34 Чи вивчають в mono, яка дохідність у тій чи іншій ніші, перш ніж заходити туди? 25:09 Mono залежить від регулятора, навідміну від інших ІТ-компаній: як з цим справлятись? 26:56 Нарахування додаткових податків на надприбутки: як це було для mono? 34:14 Робота з регулятором через публічність — першопочатковий задум? 37:13 Чому mono не вдалось запуститись у Польщі, це може бути через зв'язок з «Приватом»?
Kevin Klinkenberg is an urban designer, planner, and architect from Kansas City with over two decades of experience in creating walkable, human-centered communities. He's the mind behind The Messy City, a blog and podcast where he explores the complexities of urban development, advocating for adaptability, local initiative, and practical solutions over rigid, top-down planning. He previously served as Executive Director of the Savannah Development and Renewal Authority, where he contributed to a downtown master plan for Savannah, Georgia. A long-time advocate for New Urbanism, and writer of the book ‘Why I Walk', he has worked across the U.S. blending idealism with pragmatism.Subscribe to Kevin's substack: https://kevinklinkenberg.substack.com Follow Kevin on X: https://x.com/kevinklink======== For more information on The Aesthetic City, find our website on https://theaestheticcity.com/Love what we do? Become a patron! With your help we can grow this platform even further, make more content and hopefully achieve real, lasting impact for more beautiful cities worldwide. Visit our Patreon page here: https://www.patreon.com/the_aesthetic_city?fan_landing=trueWe are making an online course about urban planning! Join the waitlist here: https://www.aesthetic.city/the-academy Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@the_aesthetic_city Follow us on X: https://x.com/_Aesthetic_City Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.aesthetic.city/ Substack: https://theaestheticcity.substack.com/
Daniel Herriges is the Policy Director at the Parking Reform Network, an organization that educates the public about the impact of parking policy on climate change, equity, housing, and traffic. He is a lifelong urbanist and advocate for people-centered places. Daniel lives in his hometown of St. Paul, Minnesota, with his wife and two young children.
In this episode, Chuck explains why our current situation, though tense, actually presents a great opportunity for advocates of street safety, walkability, and bikeability. He then lays out a number of common misconceptions and errors that advocates will have to avoid if they want to take advantage of this opportunity. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Chuck Marohn (Substack)
On this week's program, we bring you highlights from a public meeting and open house that took place at the Main Public Library on March 18th about the Downtown & NuLu Street Network Plan. Louisville Metro Government is leading a plan to advance quick-term action projects for streets in Downtown and NuLu, intended to promote walkability and safety for pedestrians and to serve as a blueprint for capital improvement projects over the next several years. The public was invited to come be a part of this planning effort by joining this open house and kickoff of the plan activities - featuring a presentation from Jeff Speck from Metro's planning consultant team! So listen in as renowned urban planner and author Jeff Speck shared his insights on reimagining downtown Louisville through the lens of walkability and why fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment is imperative for a flourishing city. The evening kicked off with Joel from Stantech. Jeff Speck is a city planner and author who advocates internationally for more walkable cities. As Director of Design at the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 through 2007, he presided over the Mayors' Institute on City Design and created the Governors' Institute on Community Design. Prior to his federal appointment, Mr. Speck spent ten years as Director of Town Planning at DPZ & Co., the principal firm behind the New Urbanism movement. Since 2007, he has led Speck & Associates — now Speck Dempsey —an award-winning urban planning firm serving public and private clients around the world. With Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, Mr. Speck is the co-author of Suburban Nation, which the Wall Street Journal calls "the urbanist's bible.” His 2012 book Walkable City was the best selling city planning title of the past decade and has been translated into eight languages. He is also the principal author of The Smart Growth Manual and Walkable City Rules. Jeff Speck has been named a fellow of both the American Institute of Certified Planners and the Congress for New Urbanism. In a recent Planetizen poll, he was voted one of the ten “most influential urbanists of all time.” Mr. Speck was the 2022 recipient of the Seaside Prize, whose former awardees include Jane Jacobs and Christopher Alexander. His TED talks and YouTube videos have been viewed more than six million times. Truth to Power airs every Friday at 9pm, Saturday at 11am, and Sunday at 7pm on Louisville's grassroots, community radio station, Forward Radio 106.5fm WFMP and live streams at https://forwardradio.org
We're catching up after a week off! Sarah has been at Disney World and is sharing all about the trip, Kelly discovered a walkable coffee shop, and we're having a good time sharing life updates and chatting it up!SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL!LINKS AND CODES:Shop 360cookware today and use our code HONESTYCLUB25 to get 25% off!Get our favorite adrenal cocktail mix here!Sweatshirts, hats, tees, and coffee mugs from The Honesty Club here!Enroll in Sarah's Attainable Aesthetic course and learn how to style your home!To submit a topic for us to cover in the future, click here.To share a story for an upcoming episode, click here.Follow The Honesty ClubInstagramTikTokFollow Kelly and Sarah Joy!Kelly's IGSarah's IG Sarah's TikTokSarah's BlogSarah's YouTubeCopyright ©The Honesty Club Podcast 2025 | All rights reserved
Mariana Lima has been in the real estate game for years and knows her stuff. So when she tells you that this city is something special - for residents, for buyers, for renters, and for investors - you gotta listen! Mariana brings her incredible eye for design and fashion into her real estate work, finding the most beautiful and aesthetic places. She will make you fall in love with a place you've never been to. Check it out!
cut short my flower green maxi dress to make it walkable
With the rise of suburban sprawl and city planning that has prioritized car travel above all else, modern American cities seriously lack comfortable walking and biking infrastructure. It's a massive issue - but solutions do exist and importantly, those solutions are decidedly doable. Today we are so thrilled to be speaking with Jeff Speck, a city planner, who is widely known for his work advocating for and creating more walkable cities. His book, Walkable City, first published in 2012, has been translated into seven languages and is the best selling city planning book of the 21st century. Walkable City is also a winner of the Green Prize for Sustainable Literature.Jeff believes that a thriving city is a walkable city, where cars are instruments for freedom but aren't necessary for the day-to-day basics of living. We would also add that walkable cities are fundamentally biophilic because livability and wellness are at the core of biophilia. In this episode, we chat with Jeff about making cities more walkable, the economic benefits of walkable cities, and demanding more of our environments. Shownotes Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time 10th Anniversary Edition by Jeff SpeckThe Smart Growth Manual by Jeff SpeckWalkable City Rules by Jeff SpeckSuburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Dream by Jeff Speck The walkable city (TED Talk)4 ways to make a city more walkable (TED Talk)Street Fight: Handbook for an Urban Revolution by Janette Sadik-Khan and Seth SolomonowConfessions of a Recovering Engineer by Charles L. MarohnKilled by a Traffic Engineer by Wes Marshall Andres Duany: Principles of New Urbanism (YouTube)Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers
We know walking is good for our bodies, our communities, and our planet. But our car-centric cities and screen-filled lives keep us sitting. Can we change? This hour, ideas to get us moving. Guests include author Vybarr Cregan-Reid, computer historian Laine Nooney, exercise physiologist Keith Diaz, urban planner Jeff Speck, activists John Francis and Vanessa Garrison. TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at: plus.npr.org/tedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Hear what it's like to live on one of the windswept Orkney Islands off the northern tip of Scotland, where people have lived since before recorded history. Then learn how redesigned traffic patterns in Europe have had a positive impact on quality of life — and get ideas for making your own city a more enjoyable place to be outdoors. Plus, a historian examines the underappreciated role of nomadic societies and their struggles in the modern world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.