Episodios

  • An Irish Farewell - Barbara Johnson

    An Irish Farewell - Barbara Johnson
    Jun 4 2025

    Barbara Johnson is an acclaimed author who shares a personal journey back to Ireland that was sparked by the tragedy of her partner’s sudden death. Kathleen’s Irish ancestry led her to discover her own heritage, and many cousins who live still in the northwest of Ireland. Barbara recounts her experiences growing up in a military family, which fostered a love for travel and her emotional journey as she buried Kathleen's ashes in Ireland with her family. The episode dives into themes of loss, travel and the challenges and healing involved in relocations and transitions late in life, touching upon Barbara's thoughts about moving to Ireland and her reflections on writing. Barbara says, "Kathleen used to say her heart was in New York, her body in Maryland, but her soul was in Ireland."

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Audio editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    Transcription and show notes edited by Anna Cerami.

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    40 m
  • Ex-Pat in Ecuador Anna Bernstein

    Ex-Pat in Ecuador Anna Bernstein
    May 25 2025
    Episode Highlights00:00:03: Introduction to Christi Cassidy and Moving Along podcast, which focuses on travel, relocation and life transitions.00:00:35: Christi welcomes Anna Bernstein, discussing her past with Mantra Public Relations and moving to Ecuador.00:02:14: Anna thanks Christi for the introduction and mentions their use of audio for the podcast despite having a video connection. 00:02:17: Anna talks about her upbringing in Norman, Oklahoma, and the influence her parents' New York roots had on her. 00:03:19: She describes her early travels to New York and experiences while in college. 00:04:17: Discussion on how she ended up choosing the University of Kansas over schools in New York. 00:06:26: Anna shares her career shift from being a stockbroker in Kansas City to pursuing her passion for performing in New York. 00:07:44: Her journey to New York involved a detour to Italy, fulfilling her dream to be there. 00:08:22: Transitioning from a stockbroker to becoming a voice coach and founding Voice Success. 00:09:45: The birth of her teaching career in singing and exploration of brain function in voice. 00:14:04: Her success in accent reduction and subsequent focus on corporate training. 00:14:56: Discusses her career establishing a business in Seattle and working with major companies like Microsoft. 00:17:45: Details about her work and life in Seattle before moving to Mexico. 00:19:39: Decision to move to Mexico and experiences that followed. 00:22:24: Logistics of moving to Mexico discussed, including traveling with the car and a cat. 00:24:38: Learning Spanish and living in a small Mexican town. Experience in Mexican culture and affordability. 00:30:34: Her choice of exploring North Carolina when unsure about staying in Mexico. 00:32:59: Selling her house in Seattle facilitating further travels and transitions. 00:34:07: Addresses a lack of fear in moving and taking big life changes, viewing them as non-threatening endeavors. 00:41:15: Explores moving to Cuenca, Ecuador, due to financial concerns and safety considerations with the political climate in the USA. 00:49:41: Living comfortably on Social Security in Ecuador and the liberties afforded by financial stability abroad. 00:51:47: Recommends Ecuador as a favorable destination for retirees. 00:54:08: Closing remarks and encouragement to listen to Moving Along for more stories.Key TakeawaysFearlessness in moving and adapting to new cultures can lead to rich and fulfilling experiences.Focusing on professional skills that are transferable can aid in maintaining financial security while living abroad.Understanding the importance of financial planning, especially regarding Social Security and investments. Considering alternative living locations for better quality of life and affordability in countries like Ecuador.Tweetable Quotes "It just never occurred to me to be afraid." — Anna Bernstein "Just don't be afraid. Just try things." — Anna Bernstein "Any excuse for a party, that's Latin America or South America." — Anna Bernstein "I know where I don't want to be, and right now it’s in the States." — Anna Bernstein "You can always buy furniture. You know, who cares?" — Anna BernsteinResource for Those Wanting to Move AbroadElite Documents Apostille CREDITSHost and creator: Christi CassidyContact: christi@movingalongpodcast.comArtwork by Phyllis BusellMusic by Eve’s Blue. Editing by Bare Value. Post-production help from Auphonic.com.Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com LINKS:More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.comPast episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    55 m
  • Walking Journeys with Storyteller Diane Wyzga

    Walking Journeys with Storyteller Diane Wyzga
    May 5 2025

    Growing up off Exit 109 of the Garden State Parkway in New Jersey, Diane Wyzga remembers family vacations as setting the stage for a lifetime of wanderlust. Growing up as the eldest of seven, Diane’s early adventures in state and national parks sparked a passion for exploration that never faded. Join me as I chat with Diane, founder of Quarter Moon Story Arts, and we navigate her multifaceted journey from Navy nurse to lawyer, and now a storyteller on Whidbey Island and host of the daily podcast "Stories from Women Who Walk."

    The episode unfolds with tales of youthful independence and the courage to chart one's path. Childhood memories of collecting S&H Green Stamps for camping gear with Diane’s family are the precursor to a love for hiking and a life marked by exploration. Diane's story of trekking the Camino de Santiago as a transformative milestone resonates as Diane reminisces about her backpacking adventures across Europe. With a trusty travel guide and a heart full of optimism, Diane’s early journeys reveal an enduring spirit of adventure.

    --------- HIGHLIGHTS ---------

    0:02:33 - Childhood Travel Memories and Green Stamps

    0:06:23 - Life-Changing Outdoor Adventures

    0:11:19 - Life Divided

    0:16:57 - Backpacking Across Europe Without Set Plans

    0:23:02 - From Backpacking Europe to Navy Service

    0:30:35 - Trips to New York City

    0:39:59 - Last Hope Island and Diane's Polish Heritage

    0:46:26 - Camino del Santiago: Encouraging Note From a Friend

    0:55:48 - Granny D's Inspiring Journey Across America

    Contact Info & Links

    Quarter Moon Story Arts: https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net

    E-mail: info@quartermoonstoryarts.net

    Stories From Women Who Walk with daily 60 Seconds podcast:

    https://stories-from-women-who-walk.simplecast.com/

    Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack:

    https://dianewyzga.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search

    Diane on LinkedIn:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-f-wyzga-QMSA

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    58 m
  • A Happy Move with Devra Jacobs

    A Happy Move with Devra Jacobs
    Feb 17 2025

    Travel enthusiasts and those facing the prospect of relocation, gather around for a rich tapestry of stories and insights with me, Christi Cassidy, and our special guest, Devra Jacobs, author of A Happy Move. Discover how Devra's adventurous spirit, cultivated during her formative years in the Bay Area and later in New Jersey, has led her through an enriching journey of frequent moves within the U.S. and across the globe. Her story offers a refreshing perspective on embracing change, moving with loved ones and pets, and the intricate dance between staying connected to family while exploring new horizons.

    Thinking about what to pack and what to leave behind? We unravel the complexities of downsizing, balancing sentimental treasures with practical decisions, and weighing the cost of shipping versus replacing items.

    Now approaching her 30th move (from Flagstaff to Arkansas), Devra shares strategies for researching your new home’s weather, language and culture, and the importance of being prepared for the challenges of moving. These handy tips are not just for those crossing oceans but also for anyone tackling the logistics of a local move.

    For those yearning to understand the nuances of adapting to new environments, Devra’s anecdotes from moving to Korea in the late 70s as a young military wife and new mother—complete with unexpected cultural surprises—serve as a guide. From understanding pet regulations to harnessing the power of community, each tale is a stepping stone toward finding your own sense of home. Packed with personal stories interwoven with practical advice, this episode is your gateway to making any move a seamless and rewarding adventure.

    A Happy Move: Everything You Need to Know Before and After the Boxes Are Packed by Devra Jacobs and Brit Elders (Beyond Words Publishing, 2024, distributed by Simon & Schuster)

    Contact Devra, read her blog and watch practical videos on packing and moving: https://ahappymove.com

    Chapters

    (00:03) - Personal Stories of Travel and Relocation

    (12:07) - Moving and Downsizing

    (17:32) - Moving Tips and Cultural Insights

    (25:35) - Moving Stories and Reflections

    (30:40) - Moving Strategies and Tips

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    46 m
  • Empowering Advocacy: The Inspiring Journey of Ariana Johnson, Ms. Black Ohio USA

    Empowering Advocacy: The Inspiring Journey of Ariana Johnson, Ms. Black Ohio USA
    Jan 5 2025

    Podcast Summary

    Ariana Johnson, the newly crowned Ms. Black Ohio USA 2025 (and Ms. Black Ohio USA 2024), joins us on a riveting journey through her life of advocacy and ambition. Raised with an appreciation for diverse cultures, Ariana brings rich insights into how travel and education shaped her values. Our conversation reveals her gratitude for her strong women role models around her, her passion for the arts and her love of childhood icons like Beverly Cleary and the American Girl series, which fueled her imagination and inspired her advocacy work.

    Ariana's experience in pageantry, a world she once hesitated to enter, transformed her path and empowered her mission. Through pageants like the American Royal Beauties, she found a supportive community that celebrated her dedication to social equity and mental health advocacy. Her commitment shines as she shares the influence of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority in her journey, where mentorship and positive role models have played a crucial role.

    We tackle pertinent issues like hair discrimination, which affects Black women in professional settings, and discuss Ariana's impactful work with the FAMICOS Foundation. With aspirations in the family court system, modeling, and maybe even moving to New York City or Miami to pursue her dreams, Ariana's story is one of determination and purpose. Her pride in representing Ohio and commitment to maternal health in the Black community make this episode a compelling testament to her journey and advocacy. Join us for an inspiring narrative of empowerment and ambition that promises to engage and uplift.

    Reach Ariana on Instagram or Ariana on LinkedIn

    CHAPTERS

    (00:03) Journey of Advocacy and Ambition

    Miss Black Ohio USA 2024 discusses her childhood love for diverse cultures, pageantry as a platform for advocacy, and the impact of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.

    (14:14) Empowering Black Women Through Pageantry

    Personal journey in music and pageantry, choir and flute experiences, introduction to pageantry at 19, crowned print model title in American Royal Beauties.

    (28:01) Navigating Advocacy and Empowerment

    Journey into social work through family mediation, mentorship, and hair discrimination in professional settings.

    (38:05) Career Dreams and Aspirations

    Hair discrimination in the Black community, community development work, aspirations in family court and modeling industry.

    (45:16) Miss Black Ohio's Platform and Pride

    Miss Black Ohio shares her dedication to her platform and commitment to maternal health in the Black community, representing Ohio with pride.

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
    Más Menos
    47 m
  • Robert Lunday on Moving from Houston to the Japanese Countryside, Global Disappearances, the Borderlands and Belonging, Japanese Culture

    Robert Lunday on Moving from Houston to the Japanese Countryside, Global Disappearances, the Borderlands and Belonging, Japanese Culture
    Oct 27 2024

    What if the tapestry of your life was woven through constant change and cultural encounters? Join us for an insightful conversation with writer and poet Robert Lunday, who shares his journey of growing up as a military dependent and his impending move from Houston to the serene landscapes of Kyushu, Japan. Robert opens up about how his early experiences of frequent relocations fostered a deep curiosity and understanding of diverse cultures—skills that will surely aid him as he embraces a new beginning in Japan.

    Together, we navigate the sensitive subject of global disappearances, focusing on countries like Mexico, Japan, and the United States and the disappearance in 1982 of Robert’s stepfather. Our discussion highlights the courage of grassroots efforts, often led by families, to find missing loved ones when official avenues fall short. From poignant artistic memorials by a Mexican shoemaker to the haunting tales of Indigenous communities, these stories underline the power of collective action and the profound impact of “missingness” on identity and community.

    As Robert prepares for his new, expat life in Japan, the conversation shifts to themes of cultural integration and adaptation. We explore the intriguing opportunities presented by Japan's abandoned homes and the unique challenges faced by expatriates in preserving these relics of rural history. Through the story of Robert’s wife, Yukiko, and her equestrian pursuits, Robert reflects on the blend of tradition and innovation that defines life in rural Japan. Whether discussing societal norms or language barriers, Robert's insights promise to enrich your understanding of what it means to truly belong in a new place.

    Robert Lunday: https://robertlunday.com/

    Disequilibria: Meditations on Missingness by Robert Lunday
    University of New Mexico Press, 2023

    You can order Robert’s latest book directly from his website: https://robertlunday.com/books/

    Chapters

    (00:03) Moving Along With Robert Lunday
    Robert Lunday's childhood as a military dependent shaped his worldview, finding solace in libraries and adapting to new environments.

    (15:19) Studying Global Disappearances and Responses
    Exploring disappearances in Mexico, Canada, Japan and the U.S., including law enforcement's role, grassroots efforts and the impact on Indigenous and Black communities.

    (22:07) Global Disappearances and Collective Action
    Indigenous experiences, personal journeys, and collective support in navigating the complexities of missing loved ones.

    (27:46) Navigating Missing Persons Cases and Support
    Social media's impact on missing persons, personal experiences, verification, global research, and ambiguous loss.

    (42:19) Cultural Integration and New Beginnings
    Adapting to new environments, diversity in Houston classrooms, challenges of immigration, and the role of writing in processing experiences.

    (48:07) Exploring Japanese Culture and Language
    Exploring Japanese culture and language, adapting as a foreigner, and considering societal norms and demographics with Robert's Japanese wife, Yukiko.

    (55:43) Japanese Abandoned Homes and Expatriate Life
    Abandoned homes in rural Japan are being purchased by non-Japanese for vacation purposes, while cultural practices like horse sashimi and waste disposal are also discussed.

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    1 h y 4 m
  • Behind the Scenes at Lonely Planet: A Chat with Alex Howard

    Behind the Scenes at Lonely Planet: A Chat with Alex Howard
    Jun 28 2024

    Alex Howard, editorial director of Lonely Planet, discusses his journey from Central Florida to leading the world's top travel guidebook publisher. Discover Alex's recommendations for hidden gems like Isle Royale National Park in Michigan, Haida Gwaii in British Columbia, and the Puye Cliff Dwellings at Santa Clara Pueblo in New Mexico. Alex shares personal stories, from childhood trips to Disney World, the Redwoods and Hong Kong, to backpacking in China (where he met his wife) and India, to adventuring in an Alaskan glacier bay, dressed in an Arctic dry suit and paddling around icebergs.

    Beginning as a backpacker reliant on Lonely Planet's guidebooks, "the blue spines," Alex transformed into a guidebook creator himself, driving Lonely Planet's vision for over a decade.

    Passionate about authenticity in travel journalism, Alex offers editorial tips for aspiring Lonely Planet writers, talks about Lonely Planet's Offbeat Destinations guides and discusses sustainability in travel. Plus, Alex muses on Lonely Planet's distinction among travel guidebooks for its focus on locals and experiences. Here he also reveals what destination proposals he'd like to see cross his desk.

    This episode is perfect for travel writers and avid adventurers alike, seeking to explore the world’s offbeat paths and create their own transformative journeys.

    00:38 Alex Howard's Early Travel Memories

    03:56 Backpacking and Teaching in China

    07:02 Lonely Planet's Evolution and Challenges

    11:03 Memorable Travel Experiences

    20:12 Travel Writing Insights and Advice

    27:44 Offbeat Destinations and Future Plans

    Contact info

    You can find Alex Howard, editorial director of Lonely Planet, at LinkedIn, Instagram or Twitter/X.

    Check out Lonely Planet's website.

    Follow Lonely Planet's Webby Award-winning Instagram.

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
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    40 m
  • Traveling with Disabilities - Danny Health Hats Speaks Up

    Traveling with Disabilities - Danny Health Hats Speaks Up
    Jun 5 2024

    Danny van Leeuwen, the host of Health Hats, tells good stories. About his incredible experience on a swaying walkway 20 stories above the jungle canopy in Costa Rica. About the time he fell on the Camino de Santiago in Spain. About the first time he fell. About trying to climb 11th century castle steps in Spain. A nurse and healthcare advocate, he shares his experiences of living with multiple sclerosis and being an advocate for health equity.

    Danny also discusses his background, including his career in healthcare and membership in several important health organizations. He remembers what travel meant to him as a child and recounts his various adventures traveling with disabilities, including trips from Chicago and Detroit to New York, to the Camino in Spain, to the Portugal Camino and to Costa Rica.

    Danny provides practical advice on dealing with the challenges of traveling with a disability, emphasizing the importance of support systems and leveraging available resources. He also touches on his work with underrepresented communities and his interest in long COVID research. Danny's philosophy of taking calculated risks and remaining adaptable despite physical limitations resonates throughout the conversation.

    Danny van Leeuwen Info

    Contact Danny: https://health-hats.com/#contact

    Health Hats Website: https://health-hats.com/

    Danny Health Hats Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/dvanleeu

    Danny crossing the suspension bridge in Costa Rica with Juve Acuna, the grandfather of disability travel guides, on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1zokW8rnNk

    Places mentioned:

    Boston

    Chicago

    Detroit

    New York

    Spain Camino de Santiago

    Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

    Portugal Camino

    Costa Rica

    Cloudland State Park, Georgia

    CREDITS

    Host and creator: Christi Cassidy

    Contact: christi@movingalongpodcast.com

    Artwork by Phyllis Busell

    Music by Eve’s Blue.

    Editing by Bare Value.

    Post-production help from Auphonic.com.

    Show notes written with assistance from https://barevalue.com

    LINKS:

    More information and to listen to past episodes: https://movingalongpodcast.com

    Past episodes are here too: https://moving-along.simplecast.com/

    Tag and like Moving Along episodes on Facebook and Instagram!
    Más Menos
    40 m
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