The Travel People Podcast

In Season 1, Episode 6 of The Travel People, we're taking a trip back in time with what can only be described as The Lost Episode.Somewhere between packing for cruises, recording podcasts, and chasing the next adventure, this episode mysteriously disappeared... only to be discovered buried deep in the archives of our old YouTube channel. After a successful recovery mission, we figured it was finally time to give it a proper home on Spotify.This special feature takes you inside the Cruise Planners Convention, where we sat down with some of the incredible advisors who make this company unlike any other. From unforgettable travel stories to the friendships and support that define the CP Family, this episode is a celebration of the people who make Cruise Planners such an amazing place to belong.To everyone who shared a few minutes with us at the convention, thank you. We couldn't fit every conversation into one episode, but we hope this captures the energy, passion, and love for the travel industry that brings us all together.Sometimes the best adventures are the ones you almost forgot about. Welcome to The Lost Episode.

In Season 3 Episode 5, Aisha Dwyer joins The Travel People Podcast to talk about purpose, adventure, resilience, and why making memories matters just as much as saving lives. So, hit play, laugh with us, and maybe start planning that bucket-list trip you've been putting off.Powered by Cruise Planners and sponsored by Confined Space Coffee, where we believe life's best stories start with a passport and a little courage.

In Season 3, Episode 4 of The Travel People, a new chapter officially begins as Juan welcomes Cruise Planners travel advisor Toni Chavis as the podcast's new co-host.Together, they tackle some of the biggest conversations happening in the travel industry, from the headlines surrounding Spirit Airlines' bankruptcy to the future of airport security and what changing TSA procedures could mean for travelers. They also dive into a topic close to home for every modern travel advisor: why creating authentic content and building relationships online has become just as important as planning the perfect vacation.More than a news roundup, this episode is a look at where the travel industry is headed and how trusted advisors continue to help clients navigate a rapidly changing world.With a fresh voice, a new partnership, and a shared passion for travel, Juan and Toni kick off the next era of The Travel People by doing what they love most—keeping travelers informed, inspired, and ready for their next adventure.

n Season 3, Episode 3 of The Travel People, Juan returns to York County and takes the show back on the road for a special visit to Illumination Wines.In this intimate conversation, Juan sits down with co-owners Amanda Teller and Linda Shadday to explore the story behind one of the area's most unique destinations. From building a business rooted in hospitality to creating a space where friends and families can slow down and connect, they share the passion and purpose that have made Illumination Wines a local favorite.Surrounded by beautiful outdoor spaces and winery-inspired charm, the discussion turns to entrepreneurship, community, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the door.This episode also marks a new chapter for The Travel People. It's Juan's first fully independent production—hosting, filming, producing, editing, and telling local stories his own way. As one era comes to a close, we also look ahead and share an exciting announcement: Cruise Planners travel advisor Toni Chavis will soon be joining the show as the newest co-host.It's a celebration of local business, fresh beginnings, and the adventures still waiting to be uncorked.

In Season 3, Episode 2 of The Travel People, Juan sits down with fellow Cruise Planners travel advisors Toni Chavis and Jay & Dawn Drucker for a conversation about what makes this industry—and this company—so special.Together, they share the moments that inspired them to become travel advisors, the friendships they've built along the way, and the satisfaction of helping clients create unforgettable memories. More than selling vacations, they discuss the value of building relationships and why having a trusted travel advisor in your corner can make all the difference.The episode also offers an inside look at what it's really like to start a travel business with Cruise Planners, from the support and community to the opportunities that come from being part of a network built on collaboration and shared success.Whether you're dreaming about your next getaway, curious about a career in travel, or wondering why more travelers are choosing to work with an advisor, this episode celebrates the people and the passion that make the Cruise Planners family one of the best in the business.

For the Season 3 Premiere of The Travel People, we're kicking off a new chapter with a conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the power of community.Juan sits down with Matt Gleaves, founder of Confined Space Coffee and co-leader of Mission Uprising, to explore a journey that's anything but ordinary. From working remote pipelines in Alaska to building a mission-driven coffee company in the Carolinas, Matt shares how faith, discipline, and meaningful connections have shaped his path.The conversation goes beyond coffee, diving into the idea that the strongest communities are built around shared experiences and a willingness to serve others. Matt also reflects on a life-changing moment in Alaska when he helped rescue passengers from a plane crash—an experience that reinforced his commitment to living with purpose.From the mission behind Confined Space Coffee and The Outpost to the belief that growth comes from doing hard things, this episode is a reminder that the greatest adventures often begin with a simple conversation.

For the Season 2 Finale, The Travel People joins forces with Barrett Gruber and The All About Nothing Podcast for a special crossover episode exploring the future of travel.Juan Velazquez shares practical insights for travelers in 2025, from the growing role of AI in trip planning to why working with a trusted travel advisor still matters. The conversation also tackles the importance of travel insurance, cultural respect, and the growing demand for authentic, meaningful experiences.It's a candid discussion about where travel is headed and how smart planning can turn a good vacation into an unforgettable one.Whether you're planning your next adventure or just love talking travel, this season finale is one you won't want to miss.

In Season 2, Episode 4 of The Travel People, we're back on the road and making a stop at the unforgettable Replay Brewing in Fort Mill for the next installment of our Flights on Flights series.Juan sits down with co-owner JT and assistant brewer Jason to talk about the passion, creativity, and nostalgia that have made Replay Brewing one of the area's most unique destinations. From crafting exceptional beer to building an experience that transports guests back to the golden days of the 80s and 90s, this is a brewery where every pint comes with a story.Arcade games, vintage collectibles, classic pop culture, and a love for all things retro helped shape Replay's identity. JT and Jason share how those childhood memories became the foundation for a community gathering place where great beer and great conversations go hand in hand.Whether you grew up with cassette tapes, video game consoles, Saturday morning cartoons, or you're simply looking for your next favorite local brewery, this episode is a celebration of nostalgia, entrepreneurship, and the people who turn passion into something unforgettable.

In Season 2, Episode 3 of The Travel People, we're back on the road and broadcasting from the incredible Monday Night Brewing in Charlotte for a conversation that reminds us that community is built through both compassion and connection.We sit down with Eric and Cynthia, the inspiring founders of Santiago Strong, to hear the story of their son Santiago and the mission that grew from his legacy. Through love, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, they've created a foundation that continues to bring hope and support to families facing unimaginable challenges.We're also joined by Amanda from Monday Night Brewing, who shares the story behind one of Charlotte's favorite gathering places. From the brewery's roots to its dedication to hospitality and giving back, we explore how great spaces—and great communities—are built one relationship at a time.This episode is about more than craft beer and local business. It's about family, purpose, and the people who turn life's greatest challenges into opportunities to make a lasting difference.To learn more about the incredible work being done by Santiago Strong and how you can help, visit SantiagoStrong.org.

In Season 2, Episode 2 of The Travel People, we're back on the road and broadcasting live from Lake Wylie Brewing Company for a conversation that's all about local legends, big ideas, and the hustle behind the dream.Join us as we sit down with Ernesto Hernandez of Hernandez Hospitality and Carolina Outdoor Clothing, alongside Jeff Coogler, the Brewmaster, helping put Lake Wylie Brewing on the map. From entrepreneurship and community building to craft beer and local culture, this episode celebrates the people who are creating something special right here in York County.Jeff also takes us behind the scenes for an exclusive look at the brewing process, sharing the passion, creativity, and craftsmanship that go into every pint.If you love local business, great stories, and discovering the people who make a community thrive, pull up a chair and join us for Season 2, Episode 2.

Season 2 of The Travel People starts with a brand-new adventure as we take the show on the road and shine a spotlight on the incredible people and local businesses that make York County, South Carolina, such a special place to call home.Broadcasting from Untamed Waters Brewing, we're introducing our new co-host, Dominik Livinsky, and debuting our brand-new theme song created by the talented Midas, who joins us to share the story and inspiration behind the music that will define this next chapter of the podcast.Then we sit down with Jordan and Alison Hernandez, the owners of Untamed Waters Brewing, to talk about building a business, creating community, and the passion it takes to turn a dream into reality.Season 2 is about more than travel—it's about discovering the stories, people, and places that inspire us to explore. Join us as The Travel People hits the road and begins a new journey, one local story at a time.

For the Season 1 Finale of The Travel People, we're changing course and turning the microphone around.After a season spent sharing the stories of incredible travelers, advisors, and friends, Juan Velazquez steps out from behind the host's chair to tell his own story. From his earliest memories of travel and the life experiences that shaped him, to finding purpose in helping others explore the world, this episode is a personal look at the journey that started it all.More than a conversation about vacations, this is a story about resilience, family, friendship, and the belief that travel has the power to change lives. Juan opens up about the road that led him to become a travel advisor, a podcast host, and an advocate for creating meaningful connections through shared experiences.As we close out Season 1, this episode is a thank you to everyone who has been part of the adventure and a reminder that sometimes the most important journey is the one that brings you back to yourself.This is the story behind The Travel People. This is Juan's journey.

In Season 1, Episode 5 of The Travel People, we're cranking up the fun with Douglas and Shannon Giertz—a couple who turned a chance meeting on a Virgin Voyage into a friendship that was meant to be.From unforgettable cruise moments to Douglas's legendary Hulk Hogan impressions, this episode is packed with laughs, stories from the high seas, and a fresh look at cruising through the eyes of passionate travelers. It's real talk, real friendships, and proof that some of the best adventures begin with saying yes to the journey.If you've ever wondered what makes the cruise community so special, this episode will have you laughing along and ready to book your next sailing.Because sometimes what happens at sea doesn't stay at sea... it becomes a story worth sharing.

In Season 1, Episode 4 of The Travel People, we're adding a little magic to the journey with travel advisor Julie D'Orso. A true theme park enthusiast, Julie turned her love for unforgettable vacations into a career helping families create memories that last a lifetime.We dive into what inspired her passion, how she helps travelers unlock the best theme park experiences, and why following what you love can become something much bigger than a hobby.If you've ever dreamed of planning the perfect getaway or turning your passion into a profession, this episode is for you.And when you're done, be sure to catch more of Julie's adventures on the Wanderlust & Wishes Podcast, available on all major podcast platforms.

In Season 1, Episode 3 of The Travel People, we're turning up the volume with Orben Torres, a cruise planner who traded the bright lights of the New York music scene for a career creating unforgettable vacations.From rocking stages in the 80s to mastering the art of travel, Orben shares why today's travel planners are so much more than booking agents. It's a conversation about passion, reinvention, and the power of having an expert in your corner when it's time to see the world.If you think travel planning is just clicking a button online, this episode might just change your tune.

In Season 1, Episode 2 of The Travel People, we set sail with Anthony of the Seas—a cruise planner and photographer who knows that the best adventures deserve to be lived and captured.From his favorite Royal Caribbean experiences to the stories behind the lens, Anthony shares what fuels his passion for travel and why cruising is more than just a vacation—it's a lifestyle.If you're dreaming about your next getaway, this is one episode you don't want to miss.

In the pilot episode of The Travel People, we're climbing aboard with Tracy Aldridge from Virgin Voyages to find out why so many Sailors never want to cruise any other way.We're talking Lady Ships, Sea Terraces, Scarlet Nights, and why having a First Mate in your corner can mean more Sailor Loot, less stress, and a much smoother voyage.If you've been curious about what all the Virgin buzz is about, this episode is your boarding pass. Get your Sea Legs, leave the buffet behind, and discover why Virgin Voyages is rewriting the rules of cruising.