The Travel Hour

This conversation goes deep. Joc sits down with Eileen Ivette, a Houston-raised, Colombia-born video producer, journalist, and the creative force behind Black Latin History.They get into everything: travel experiences across Brazil, Cuba, and Colombia, what it means to navigate the world as an Afro-Latina and how Eileen turned her passion for storytelling into a full-blown platform that's educating millions.She breaks down her journey from building a portfolio on social media to securing grants for independent documentary work, all while challenging misconceptions about race and identity in Latin America. From travel mishaps with Spirit Airlines to packing strategies that actually work, and from exploring Afro-Medellin culture to creating immersive travel experiences that center Black and Afro-Colombian heritage, this episode is packed with game.If you've ever wondered how to bet on yourself, build a brand from scratch, or use travel as a tool for cultural storytelling and community impact, this one's for you. Press play.Connect with Eileen Ivette:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eileen_ivette/TikTok (Black Latin History): https://www.tiktok.com/@blacklatinhistoryWebsite: https://eileenivette.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/eileenivetteAfro-Medellin Trip Details: https://linktr.ee/eileen_ivetteResources Mentioned:Black Travel Summit: https://blacktravelsummit.comWITS Women in Travel Summit: https://womenintravel.com/wits/Keywords: Travel, Black Latin Culture, Cuba, Houston, Brazil, Medellín, Colombia, Travel Tips, Cultural Identity, Black Latin history, Afro-Columbian culture, travel influencer, documentary, social media, Afro-Medellin, cultural storytelling, community impact, grant funding, solo travel, creator economyChapters:00:00 Introduction to Eileen Ivette and Black Travel Summit02:54 Cultural Connections: Black Latin Identity05:29 Exploring Houston's Diversity and Food Culture08:08 The Evolution of Houston: A Growing City11:09 Travel Experiences and Airport Insights24:32 Traveling with Spirit Airlines: Pros and Cons31:53 Packing Strategies for Travelers37:41 Exploring Black Latin History52:21 The Journey of Creating Black Latin History52:51 Creative Beginnings and Portfolio Building55:28 Betting on Yourself: The Journey to Success57:33 Faith and Preparation for Opportunities01:00:47 Decolonization and Challenging Racial Narratives01:12:41 Afro-Medellin: Immersing in Afro-Colombian Culture

Joc sits down with Dr. Marsha, who went from forensic psychology to building a wellness retreat empire that's changing lives for Black women everywhere. She breaks down her journey from Jamaica to navigating corporate America across Connecticut, Florida, Texas, and California, and how COVID-19 became the catalyst that pushed her to bet on herself. Dr. Marsha gets real about the mental health toll of unfulfilling work, why community and sisterhood aren't optional for Black women climbing the corporate ladder, and how manifestation became her secret weapon for personal growth. From winning awards at the Black Travel Summit in Brazil to creating safe spaces through her retreats, she's proof that life is too short to play small. If you've ever felt stuck in a job that's draining your soul, or wondered what it takes to actually trust your intuition and leap, this conversation is for you. Press play.Connect with Dr. Marsha:Website: https://www.drmarshaevans.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarshaevans/Keywords: Dr. Marsha, travel, wellness retreats, Black women, corporate America, manifestation, self-discovery, mental health, cultural experiences, COVID-19, Women's History Month, Black women entrepreneurs, wellness travel, BrazilKey Takeaways:Self-discovery and healing are essential for personal growth.Life is too short to stay in an unfulfilling job.Community and sisterhood are vital for Black women in corporate America.Manifestation can be a powerful tool for transformation.COVID-19 forced many to reevaluate their careers and mental health.Trusting your intuition and taking risks leads to breakthroughs.Gratitude is a daily practice that shifts perspective.Wellness retreats create safe spaces for Black women to heal and connect.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Marsha's Journey02:28 Transitioning from Connecticut to Florida05:05 Cultural Differences and Experiences in Miami08:04 Exploring Life in Texas and California10:42 The Impact of COVID-19 on Dr. Marsha's Career13:21 A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery16:17 Manifestation and New Beginnings18:48 Building a Wellness Retreat Business21:44 Challenges Faced by Black Women in Corporate America24:34 The Importance of Community and Sisterhood26:58 Dr. Marsha's Award at the Black Travel Summit29:51 Experiences in Brazil and Cultural Insights32:27 Future Plans and Upcoming Retreats

This conversation goes deep. Joc sits down with Kam an African diaspora traveler + storyteller. They get into African traditional religions, how Black history shapes who we become, and what it means to grow up in the church while staying curious about the world beyond it. Kam breaks down her journey from questioning different religious beliefs to finding herself fully at Howard University, where being at an HBCU gave her the freedom to just be. They talk about the power of HBCU connections that literally change your life trajectory, and how those relationships led Kam to make a bold move to Ghana right after graduation. From navigating life in Ghana to surviving and thriving through the pandemic abroad, this episode is packed with real talk about growth, exploration, and what happens when you stop playing it safe. If you've ever felt caught between tradition and curiosity, or wondered what life looks like when you actually take that leap internationally, this one's for you. Press play.Follow Kam's adventures:Instagram: @adventurousKamTikTok: @adventurousKamChapters00:00 Introduction to Black History Month08:13 Understanding Watch Night Service13:18 Curiosity about Other Religions22:24 Conversations about Different Religions28:58 Transition to Howard University35:01 Freedom to Be Black42:42 Life in Ghana: A Bold Move After Graduation59:53 Pandemic Experiences and Traveling Again

The Black in CDMX series continues, and this one’s for the families. Joc sits down with Deryle and Desiree from @gotoutgotin, and they get real about what it actually takes when a family decides to pack up and build a new life outside the U.S. This isn’t just about visas and logistics, it’s about navigating cultural differences, language barriers, parenting in a completely new environment, and making sure your kids see themselves represented in their new world. They get into the real challenges: how relationships get tested and strengthened when you’re far from home, what intentional community building actually looks like when you’re starting from scratch, and the unique experience of raising a family in Mexico City. From the residency process and its benefits to their e-book that breaks down everything you need to consider before moving abroad (no matter where you’re going), this episode is packed with valuable game for anyone considering taking their family international. If you’ve been wondering whether you can actually do this with kids in tow, or if you’re already abroad and need to know you’re not alone, press play.Follow Deryle & Desiree: https://www.instagram.com/gotoutgotin/Check out their resources:        ∙       DollarsAndStories.com        ∙       ICanYouCanVegan.com        ∙       Grab their e-book on moving abroad with location-independent insights you can apply anywhereKeywords:Mexico City, family travel, moving abroad with kids, expat families, parenting abroad, CDMX, residency process, international living, cultural immersion, community building, Black families abroad, Mexico relocation, gotoutgotin, moving abroad guide, Black in CDMX

If you've been thinking about Mexico City, this is the episode you need. Joc sits down with Mark, Founder and CEO of VisaMapAI and a key member of the Move CDMX team, and they get into everything: what it's really like being Black in CDMX, the comedy scene Mark is literally building from the ground up, Art Week, the Kanye concert that had the city buzzing, and even watching the Super Bowl halftime show from Mexico. Mark shares how he turned a potluck in his home into Comedy Kickback and eventually booked KevinOnStage, a comedian from the U.S., to perform in CDMX. He breaks down how VisaMapAI helps you find better visa options beyond the H-1B with personalized recommendations in minutes. They talk about navigating life abroad, building real community in one of the hottest expat destinations right now, and why CDMX has become a hub for Black travelers and digital nomads looking to live their best lives. Whether you're stuck in visa limbo, planning your move, or just CDMX curious, this conversation will give you the real talk and the tools you need to make your next move. Stop dreaming and start planning because the community is already there waiting for you.Check out VisaMapAI: https://visamapai.com/Next time you're in Mexico City, tap in with @themovecdmx for events of the week and to connect with community: https://www.instagram.com/themovecdmx/

For Black History Month this year, Joc sits down with Joseph Landon, founder of JoJo's Ventures, and they get straight into it: Black history IS American history, and if you don't know that by now, this conversation will set you straight. They talk about the Great Migration and how it shaped New York City, the reality of gentrification pushing out the very communities that built the culture, and how JoJo's Trip Advisor award-winning tours are reclaiming the narrative. With NYC's 200th anniversary on the horizon, they break down what it means to preserve history, honor legacy, and use tourism as a tool for cultural upliftment. From the streets of Harlem to the stories that don't make it into textbooks, this episode is a masterclass in why knowing where we came from matters.Website: www.travelhour.orgFollow us on IG:Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @chasing_zigMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries:[email protected]

Y'all, this one gets heavy and real. Joc kicks things off talking about the ghettoness happening in the States right now: the wild weather, travel bans, and the situation in Minnesota that got everybody on edge. But then he switches it up and takes us to Guatemala for the first time. He breaks down his experience in Antigua, the vibes there, and gets into what it was like hiking Volcano Acatenango. From the chaos back home to finding peace and perspective abroad, this episode is about why we travel, especially when things at home feel impossible. If you needed a reminder that the world is bigger than what's happening in your backyard, press play.Website: www.travelhour.orgFollow us on IG:Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @chasing_zigMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries:[email protected]

We're chopping it up with Daryl (@takeoffwithdaryl) about Brazil, and man, this trip was different! We're breaking down why Brazil hit the way it did, the moments that really stuck with us, and why we're already locking in the next trip to Brazil. If you've been or you're thinking about making the move, you gotta tune in. The world is yours!Website: www.travelhour.orgFollow us on IG:Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @chasing_zigMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries:[email protected]

Joc and Reese get into everything: navigating time zones while living that nomadic life, the cultural diversity they've experienced across the U.S., and their experience at the Black Travel Summit. They break down what it's been like leaving the Bay for Mexico City and dive deep into what responsible travel really means. They talk about documenting stories through photography, making sure their dollars go directly into local communities, why controlling their own narrative as Black travelers is everything, and how food and drink become their gateway to understanding culture on a deeper level. At the end of the day, this episode is about creating a platform where their stories, and yours, get told the right way.Key Takeaways:Cultural ImmersionCommunity BuildingResponsible TravelCultural ConsciousnessChapters:00:00 Leaving the Bay and Exploring Mexico City42:22 Responsible Travel and Bartering47:28 Intentional Spending in Local Communities55:46 Narrative Control and Representation01:09:20 Adapting to Different Travel Experiences01:14:26 Cultural Exploration Through Food and Drink01:20:20 Platform for Sharing Stories

After a 2-year layover, The Travel Hour is cleared for takeoff! Join us for Season 2.0 as we share where we've been, reveal our 2026 Passport Promises, and chart the course for our biggest year yet. Buckle up! We're taking you with us. ✈️Website: www.travelhour.orgFollow us on IG:Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @chasing_zigMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries:[email protected]

In this episode we explore the heart of the city’s old town, Casco Viejo, hop on a cataraman to Taboga Island, and visit the Panama Canal. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibes of PTY and learn the magic that makes this country truly unique.Follow us on IG: Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What's good, Travel Hour Fam! You heard us mention our trip to Egypt in 2021 when most of the world was still on lockdown. So, we finally decided to sit down and give a recap of the trip and what to expect when visiting Egypt.  Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

Justin Orgias, the Husband and father of O Family Adventures shares with TTH their captivating journey living as a black nomadic family. Find out what inspired them to embark on this journey, the challenges they faced, and the joys they found along the way. Follow The O Family IG: @O.Family.AdventuresWandering Tip of the Week: Earn Wyndham elite status for staying just one night Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

Join us as Natalie engages in a dope conversation about Navigating cultural differences, Building community and Practical tips and resources while living in Poland. Whether you're considering a move abroad, already living as an expat, or simply interested in diverse perspectives definitely tap in!  Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

Are you planning your next trip and not sure where to start? Tap in as we explore the world of solo & digital nomad travel with the homie, TheBrandon! In this episode, we’ll learn how he grew into the avid solo traveler he is now, and how to properly plan and budget for your next solo trip. Be sure to check this episode out if you’re looking to take that next leap - THE WORLD IS YOURS! Follow TheBrandonIG: @TheBrandon510 YouTube: @AwkwardFreeSpiritWebsite: thebrandon.co Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

Troy and Tasha Thomas shares with TTH all that went into planning their destination wedding in Tulum, MX.  Turn in to learn the Dos and don'ts of planning a wedding aboard.Follow our Guest: Troy: Personal: @directedbytroyBusiness: @thomasphotographyllc_Natasha: Personal: @dst_forteenBusiness: @spunkyvigorletics_llcWedding video: https://youtu.be/avrgYJZlh-c Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What's good, Travel Hour Fam! Welcome to Season 2 of Thee Travel Hour! We are excited about this season and wanted to tell you what to expect and what travel looks like for us in 2023.  Tap in, and as always - USE THAT PTO AND BOOK THAT TRIP!   Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world!In Episode 10, Joc and Matt discuss  making time for the things we love. Both Co-Host keepIt real on how they attack the  day to day pressures of life and how they find balance in travel. Thank you for all of the support during the first season of Thee Travel Hour, without your support none of this would be possible. We hope y’all have enjoyed the ride. Be on the lookout for Season 2 in 2023 and make sure to tap in!  Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world!In this week's episode we talk with Hercules Conway, CEO and Founder of Nxlevel Entertainment & Lifestyle Group. Herc drops some knowledge on how he and his team got into the travel industry, curated trips for large groups and insight on how they have been able continue to develop dope international experiences.  Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest:Hercules Conway: @herc3k | @nxlevel NxLevel Travel: https://nxleveltravel.com/Business Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world!In this week's episode, Leah Sealy will be giving us tips and tricks on how to effective document your travels for your various social media platforms. Leah also issues a challenge to Thee Travel Hour Fam. Tune in to see what the challenge is!   Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest:Leah Sealy: @sapphirehilldesignsBusiness Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world!Tune in as Kim & Tia share their stories of working abroad in Tanzania  and Egypt , stepping out of their comfort zones and learning the culture.  Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest:Tia Johnson: @free2beteeKimberly Martin: @kimkimmy_kim / @parttime_foragerBusiness Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world! Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompEbony Magazine Feature:https://www.ebony.com/life/travel/summer-getaway-black-travel-podcast/?fbclid=IwAR2TNOZOnyyMoPnp7GLJ5adFJz4jIOEL9YzQE0nHgUML7-MJGE0dism_k90Business Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world!For this episode, we have Daryl joining us as we discuss travel and the importance of more black men getting out to see the world. Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest:Daryl Harris: @takeoffwithdaryl Business Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world! Join Joc, Matt, Buck, and CJ as they give you a recap of their recent trip to Santorini, Greece, while making stops in Amsterdam and Milan along the way!Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest:Big Buck: @bayouqueCJ: @don_quixote.__Amsterdam Canal Tour: Flagship AmsterdamNxLevel Travel Website: https://nxleveltravel.com/ IG: @nxlevelBusiness Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge to encourage fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world! For Episode 3, we have LaSara, a fellow HBCU Graduate and the Founder and CEO of Grants for Stamps, Inc. LaSara has traveled extensively and will share her tips and tricks for traveling on a budget. Follow us on IG!Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompFeatured Guest: LaSara: @lasaradestinyGrans for Stamps, Inc.: @grantsforstamps | www.grantsforstamps.org Business Inquiries: [email protected] Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge in hopes of encouraging fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world! Follow us on IG! Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host: Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]

What’s good, everyone! Welcome to Thee Travel Hour Podcast. Co-Host Joc and Matt P. are two young black professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge in hopes of encouraging fellow professionals to use that PTO and explore the world! In today’s episode, Joc and Matt will be discussing how Thee Travel Hour came to be and what you can look forward to during season 1. Follow us on IG! Podcast: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host: Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]: @Thee Travel HourCo-Host:Joc: @the_ziggsterMatt P.: @accordingtompBusiness Inquiries: [email protected]