Rupak Ginn is an acclaimed actor and host of the TV Show “Spice Road.” Rupak tells Brent about the amazing South Asian cuisine in Chicago and Detroit. There’s a Sri Lankan Cafe, a 6th generation Indian sweets and pastry shop, Plus, Rupak’s favorite dish his mom used to make for him. [Ep 412]
Show N…Rupak Ginn is an acclaimed actor and host of the TV Show “Spice Road.” Rupak tells Brent about the amazing South Asian cuisine in Chicago and Detroit. There’s a Sri Lankan Cafe, a 6th generation Indian sweets and pastry shop, Plus, Rupak’s favorite dish his mom used to make for him. [Ep 412]
Chicago is one of the world’s great foodie cities! Former Chicago Cubs manager Dusty Baker talks about the city’s steakhouses. Then, Radio Hall of Famer Lin Brehmer tells the story of inappropriate singing in a Michelin 3 star restaurant. Finally, award winning writer Rick Kaempfer shares his favori…Chicago is one of the world’s great foodie cities! Former Chicago Cubs manager Dusty Baker talks about the city’s steakhouses. Then, Radio Hall of Famer Lin Brehmer tells the story of inappropriate singing in a Michelin 3 star restaurant. Finally, award winning writer Rick Kaempfer shares his favorite German restaurants in Chicago including one where you can drink beer from a boot! [Ep 409]
This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan and his family head to Chicago to explore playgrounds, kid-friendly museums, hot dogs, and Presidential Centers (okay, just one Presidential Center.) Plus, Pope Leo is a looker!
Things We Talked About:
First Trip to Chicago Episode
https://p…This week on "Out of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan and his family head to Chicago to explore playgrounds, kid-friendly museums, hot dogs, and Presidential Centers (okay, just one Presidential Center.) Plus, Pope Leo is a looker!
Route 66 is America’s legendary “Mother Road,” stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles through quirky roadside attractions, neon signs, classic diners, and nearly a century of road-trip history.
Hosted by: Brooks Smothers of the RV Out West Podcast
Produced by: Jason and Abby Epperson for Lotus Media…Route 66 is America’s legendary “Mother Road,” stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles through quirky roadside attractions, neon signs, classic diners, and nearly a century of road-trip history.
Hosted by: Brooks Smothers of the RV Out West Podcast
Produced by: Jason and Abby Epperson for Lotus Media, LLC and the RV Miles Network.
Connect with See America on social media:
Instagram: @SeeAmericaPodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeeAmericaPodcast
See America Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SeeAmericamore
Pizza is one of the most popular dishes in the world! We sample the pizza from Naples and find out why pizza had to get popular in the United States before it could take over Italy. Then, we try the real Chicago-style pizza (hint: it’s not deep dish!) and take the pizza bus all over New York. And, t…Pizza is one of the most popular dishes in the world! We sample the pizza from Naples and find out why pizza had to get popular in the United States before it could take over Italy. Then, we try the real Chicago-style pizza (hint: it’s not deep dish!) and take the pizza bus all over New York. And, there’s a famous pizza maker in Campania making a unique style of pizza Margarita. [Ep 383]
This week on Drop A Pin we are recapping our trip featured in our new series Daytripping. We break down our trip to the American Southwest and then talk about what Chap's learned about the Grand Canyon during his time in seminary and how prostitution helped shape the American West!
Find out why Nut…This week on Drop A Pin we are recapping our trip featured in our new series Daytripping. We break down our trip to the American Southwest and then talk about what Chap's learned about the Grand Canyon during his time in seminary and how prostitution helped shape the American West!
Find out why Nutrafol is the best-selling hair growth supplement brand at https://Nutrafol.com promo code PIN.
Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold with code DROP https://BlueChew.com
Timestamps:
00:00:51 -Recapping Daytripping
01:02:29 - A Word From Our Sponsors
01:05:03 - More Grand Canyon Talk
📍 Listen Now:
Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drop-a-pin/id1773703211
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What does queer travel in the US look like beyond the big cities? And what can all travelers learn from the LGBTQ+ travel experience?
Chase Vondran is a full-time travel creator and writer based in Chicago who helps transgender and gender-diverse travelers explore safely while advocating for great…What does queer travel in the US look like beyond the big cities? And what can all travelers learn from the LGBTQ+ travel experience?
Chase Vondran is a full-time travel creator and writer based in Chicago who helps transgender and gender-diverse travelers explore safely while advocating for greater inclusion in the travel industry. After an eight-year nomadic journey spanning 20+ countries, they now focus their work on queer travel, small queer towns, and inclusive travel guides.
In this episode, co-host Dianni Hall sits down with Chase to talk about queer travel in the U.S., exploring small queer towns and gayberhoods, and understanding the realities and joys of traveling as a trans person.
This episode offers a rare glimpse into queer communities thriving outside of major cities and highlights unexpected destinations where queer people not only exist but also flourish. Chase shares personal stories from their travels as a trans person, the differences in how the world treats them before and after transition, and what travelers should consider when seeking inclusive spaces. You’ll discover resources, tips for finding queer communities, and the emotional power of feeling seen. Whether you’re a queer traveler, an ally, or curious about inclusive travel, this conversation expands how we think about travel, identity, and belonging.
How has travel helped you better understand experiences different from your own? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
Zero To Travel co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, and host of the While She’s Away podcast. Learn more about her work here.
Tune In To Learn:
How travel gave Chase space to explore queerness and identity away from home
What it feels like to find queer community for the first time while traveling
Why places like Puerto Vallarta have become historic hubs for queer travelers
How the absence of visible queer community can change a travel experience
How queer history, artist communities, and other factors have helped shape small inclusive towns across the U.S.
Why destinations like Saugatuck, Michigan and Eureka Springs, Arkansas defy expectations
How Chase’s travel experiences shifted after coming out as trans and
What safety, visibility, and respect look like when traveling as a trans person and how it differs from traveling as a woman
Why small, community-driven queer spaces matter just as much as big cities
How to find queer community anywhere using apps, events, and local businesses
And so much more
Resources:
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Dianni on Instagram
Chase on Instagram
Everywhere Is Queer
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Want More?
Choosing a One-Way Ticket Over a Master’s Degree + Lessons From 6 Years of Evolving Travel with Dianni Hall
Top 7 Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers and Finding Your People Around the World with LGBTQ+ Travel Expert Alicia Valenski
LGBTQ+ Travel and Making A Difference with Ravi Roth
Thanks To Our Sponsors
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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
We’re toasting 2026 with whiskeys and liqueurs around the world. There’s a new favorite Irish whiskey, a liqueur that causes you to make a sour face, a drink made from cacti, and the signature drink of Estonia. [Ep 370]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides
Destination Eat Drink …We’re toasting 2026 with whiskeys and liqueurs around the world. There’s a new favorite Irish whiskey, a liqueur that causes you to make a sour face, a drink made from cacti, and the signature drink of Estonia. [Ep 370]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides
Destination Eat Drink blog
Rick’s publishing company Eckhartz Press
David Hammond and Monica Eng’s book Made in Chicago
Simon Bajada’s website
Simon’s book Malta: Mediterranean Recipes from the Islands
Chicago is one of the most festive cities in the USA to visit at Christmas time with kids, so in today's episode I'm sharing all of the fun things to do with kids in Chicago at Christmas.
I'll share the hotel we stayed at, top things to do from the Christmas Markets to epic ice skating spots, where…Chicago is one of the most festive cities in the USA to visit at Christmas time with kids, so in today's episode I'm sharing all of the fun things to do with kids in Chicago at Christmas.
I'll share the hotel we stayed at, top things to do from the Christmas Markets to epic ice skating spots, where to get hot chocolate, and more!
In our final installment of our series on the best destinations for 2026, Pauline Frommer, Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson discussed Palawan in the Philippines, Portugal's Algarve region, Chicago, Adelaide in Australia and Vienna, Austria.
To see our B…In our final installment of our series on the best destinations for 2026, Pauline Frommer, Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson discussed Palawan in the Philippines, Portugal's Algarve region, Chicago, Adelaide in Australia and Vienna, Austria.
To see our Best Places to Go in 2026 photo-rich article, go to Frommers.com/BestPlaces2026.
Takeaways:
• In 2026, Chicago will be a prominent travel destination due to the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, which is expected to significantly reshape the community.
• Vienna is poised to attract visitors with a plethora of cultural events, including the 250th anniversary of the Burgtheater and the reopening of the Museum of Folk Life and Folk Art.
• Palawan in the Philippines is becoming increasingly popular, particularly due to its stunning natural beauty and the upcoming film set to draw attention to the region.
• The Algarve region of Portugal will feature direct transatlantic flights in 2026, making its beautiful beaches and rich history more accessible to American tourists.
• Adelaide, Australia, is experiencing a renaissance with new direct flights, making it easier for travelers to explore its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty.
• The year 2026 promises to be exceptional for travel as various destinations celebrate significant anniversaries and cultural events that will enhance the visitor experience.more
In Episode 146, Angie Sparks and Joe Petrovic recap their weekend at Chicago Seminars, highlight a timely AT201 post about preparing for phone theft while traveling, and cover key news including IHG’s 100% points bonus, an elevated United Club Card offer, and early hints of a new Hyatt credit card. …In Episode 146, Angie Sparks and Joe Petrovic recap their weekend at Chicago Seminars, highlight a timely AT201 post about preparing for phone theft while traveling, and cover key news including IHG’s 100% points bonus, an elevated United Club Card offer, and early hints of a new Hyatt credit card. They also touch on current transfer bonuses, mileage sales, status matches, and the launch of Bilt earnings through Rakuten. The main discussion focuses on Chicago Seminars itself—a volunteer-run, ...more
Why settle for one vacation story when you can get a whole passport's worth in a single episode? Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy are joined by fellow wanderlusters from the Stacking Adventures community to swap tales that stretch from Main Street U.S.A. to the shores of Zakynthos. Think budget-fri…Why settle for one vacation story when you can get a whole passport's worth in a single episode? Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy are joined by fellow wanderlusters from the Stacking Adventures community to swap tales that stretch from Main Street U.S.A. to the shores of Zakynthos. Think budget-friendly Disney hacks, Parisian magic, Chicago deep-dish memories, and the kind of Greek beach you only find when you take a wrong turn and just keep driving.
In true Adventurer fashion, these stories aren't just about where we went—they're about what we learned along the way. Whether it's how to make the most of Disney Vacation Club points, why rope drop might be your best friend, or which off-the-beaten-path spots will earn a permanent place on your bucket list, this episode is packed with practical tips wrapped in wanderlust. You'll hear about unexpected gems, clever ways to stretch your travel budget, and the gear that makes every trip smoother.
If your suitcase is already half-packed (mentally, at least), get ready for new ideas to add to your itinerary and a few "I need to try that!" moments. Consider this your boarding call for a whirlwind tour of travel tales you'll want to steal for your own adventures.
What You'll Explore in This Episode:
• Hidden gems in Disney, Chicago, Paris, and Greece that deserve a spot on your map
• Disney park strategies—from rope drop at Epcot to navigating Hollywood Studios like a pro
• How to make the most of Disney Vacation Club points and other timeshare perks
• A little-known Greek beach that might just ruin you for all other shorelines
• Travel gear picks that earn their place in your carry-on every time
• Community stories packed with tips, laughs, and new travel inspiration
Questions for the Adventurers' Clubhouse:
• What's the best hidden gem you've ever stumbled upon while traveling?
• If you had to pick only one—Disney, a European city, or a tropical island—which gets your suitcase?
• What's your go-to piece of travel gear you'd never leave home without?
For our gear of the day head to StackingAdventures.com/GOTD
AND to be on our NEXT Adventurer's Tales episode, record your up-to-five minute story here: StackingAdventures.com/MyStorymore
If food is your favorite travel companion, Chicago may be your ultimate destination in the U.S. Beyond its iconic hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, the Windy City is bursting with flavors that tell stories of immigrant traditions, culinary innovation, and neighborhood pride. Every corner offers somethin…If food is your favorite travel companion, Chicago may be your ultimate destination in the U.S. Beyond its iconic hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, the Windy City is bursting with flavors that tell stories of immigrant traditions, culinary innovation, and neighborhood pride. Every corner offers something delicious, whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred tasting menu, lining up for a beloved Italian beef sandwich, or uncovering lesser-known haunts.
Today, host Angie Orth is back with Chicago insider and veteran travel journalist Kit Bernardi on the rooftop of the Virgin Hotel. She shares her top must-try food and drink experiences, from classic dishes that built Chicago’s reputation to unexpected neighborhood treasures. Kit maps out a flavorful itinerary across the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
You’ll hear about iconic bites like Italian beef, deep-dish pizza, and the famed Vienna hot dog. You’ll learn where to book for an elevated night out at award-winning spots, including a Michelin-starred brewery. You’ll also hear how to “set-jet” with a food tour that hits filming locations and beloved bakeries featured in the hit show The Bear.
What You’ll Learn:
01:13 The Chicago staples you have to try first
02:45 Michelin-starred spots and hidden cocktail bars
04:10 Where to “set-jet” The Bear
06:05 The neighborhoods that give Chicago its flavor
08:12 Blending tradition with constant reinvention
Connect with Kit Bernardi:
Website: https://kittravels.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitbernardi/
CTA: What’s your favorite Chicago foodie find? Tell us about it in the comments!
Food doesn’t recognize borders, so Brent explores some of the best Transplanted Cuisine from around the world. There’s a famous dish from Sicily that got its start in northern Africa, a dish that came to Chicago via Hawaii, and so much great food from Indonesia in Malaysia. [Ep 353]
Show Notes:
De…Food doesn’t recognize borders, so Brent explores some of the best Transplanted Cuisine from around the world. There’s a famous dish from Sicily that got its start in northern Africa, a dish that came to Chicago via Hawaii, and so much great food from Indonesia in Malaysia. [Ep 353]
Dreaming of a city escape that blends world-famous architecture, lakefront beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture? Chicago has it all. From iconic skyscrapers to hidden neighborhood gems, this episode will change the way you see the Windy City.
Today host Angie Orth welcomes Kit Bernardi, a Chic…Dreaming of a city escape that blends world-famous architecture, lakefront beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture? Chicago has it all. From iconic skyscrapers to hidden neighborhood gems, this episode will change the way you see the Windy City.
Today host Angie Orth welcomes Kit Bernardi, a Chicago native and travel journalist, on the rooftop of the Virgin Hotel in Chicago. She’ll reveal the stories and experiences that make her hometown shine, from the Great Fire that reshaped the city to the immigrant roots that continue to define it. Kit shares insider insights that go far beyond the guidebooks.
You’ll hear about the best ways to see Chicago’s legendary skyline, when to hit the lakefront for outdoor adventures, where to explore can’t-miss museums and theaters, and how to begin a Route 66 journey. Whether you’re planning your first trip or a repeat visit, this episode is packed with tips that will help you experience Chicago like a local.
What You’ll Learn:
05:32 How the Great Chicago Fire reshaped the city
12:27 Must-see museums and surprising niche gems
15:49 Chicago’s thriving theater scene
17:53 Sports culture and the “no ketchup” hot dog rule
19:23 Starting Route 66 the classic way
Connect with Kit Bernardi:
Website: https://kittravels.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitbernardi/
More of Kit’s Chicago Recommendations:
Neighborhoods to Visit: Hyde Park, Oak Park, Pilsen
Attractions: Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago Sports Museum, National Museum of Mexican Art, DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, The American Writers Museum, Chicago History Museum, Jane Addams Hull House Museum
CTA: What’s your favorite must-see in Chicago? Tell us about it in the comments!
Planning your first visit to Chicago? Don't just snap a selfie at The Bean and call it a day—let Stacking Adventures hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy be your insider guides to one of America's most vibrant, layered, and delicious cities.
In this jam-packed episode, Crystal and Joe serve up t…Planning your first visit to Chicago? Don't just snap a selfie at The Bean and call it a day—let Stacking Adventures hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy be your insider guides to one of America's most vibrant, layered, and delicious cities.
In this jam-packed episode, Crystal and Joe serve up their personal Top 5 experiences every first-time visitor to the Windy City has to try—plus a few lesser-known gems that even longtime locals might have missed. Think towering views from the not-Sears-anymore Tower, eye-opening museum visits, and—of course—deep-dish pizza debates that could make or break a friendship.
What You'll Discover on This Chicago Adventure:
• 🎷 How to jazz up your nights: Chicago's music scene is more than history—it's still swinging.
• 🏛️ Museums worth the trip (and the ticket price): From science to surrealism, Crystal and Joe spotlight their go-to cultural stops.
• 🚢 Architecture on the water: Why skipping the Chicago River architectural tour is basically a rookie mistake.
• 🍕 The great pizza throwdown: Who serves the best deep-dish in town? Expect strong opinions.
• 🛍️ Mag Mile magic: Exploring iconic shopping, dining, and photo ops without blowing your budget.
• ✍️ Gear of the Day: The one travel item that helps you remember the trip (and not just through receipts in your coat pocket).
Plus, they share some of Chicago's lesser-hyped treasures—from relaxing beaches to hidden eats and moments of Midwestern charm you won't find in a guidebook.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or mapping out a longer adventure, this episode will leave you with a full Chicago to-do list, a hunger for hot dogs (with everything on it), and maybe even a new jazz playlist.
Looking for our cool, tested travel gear (including our NEW gear of the day pick)? Head to StackingAdventures.com/GoTDmore
Joe Cunniff, DePaul University instructor and tour guide extraordinaire, led us on a virtual tour of Chicago and its world class art museum. Then former NTSB inspector and aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti gave some straight talk about what passengers need to research, and do, before and duri…Joe Cunniff, DePaul University instructor and tour guide extraordinaire, led us on a virtual tour of Chicago and its world class art museum. Then former NTSB inspector and aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti gave some straight talk about what passengers need to research, and do, before and during a flight.more
Send us Fan Mail We spent 5 fantastic days in Chicago last week attending the US Travel Association and Brand USA's annual IPW travel conference. While there I met up with Lisa Nucci, Chief Marketing Officer with Choose Chicago to discuss the sites we experienced and some of the other things Chicago…Send us Fan Mail We spent 5 fantastic days in Chicago last week attending the US Travel Association and Brand USA's annual IPW travel conference. While there I met up with Lisa Nucci, Chief Marketing Officer with Choose Chicago to discuss the sites we experienced and some of the other things Chicago has to offer. I also had a quick chat with Kate Demonte, Director of Sales for the Navy Pier to learn what to experience when visiting the Navy Pier. Support the showmore
In Episode 121 of the Award Travel 101 podcast, Angie Sparks and Mike Zaccheo recap a packed week of travel news, personal updates, and a deep dive into the recent "Magnificent Miles Meetup" in Chicago. They highlight a popular Facebook post comparing Andaz Maui and HR Maui, with opinions divided ba…In Episode 121 of the Award Travel 101 podcast, Angie Sparks and Mike Zaccheo recap a packed week of travel news, personal updates, and a deep dive into the recent "Magnificent Miles Meetup" in Chicago. They highlight a popular Facebook post comparing Andaz Maui and HR Maui, with opinions divided based on points cost and who’s traveling with you. News-wise, they cover Hawaiian Airlines parting ways with Amex, a Citi to Wyndham 25% transfer bonus, Flying Blue dropping Delta award prices for 20...more
Darley Newman joins Brent to talk about the new season (her 12th!) of Travels with Darley and all the great things she ate & drank along the way. From mole and cocktails infused with local honey in Santa Fe to pizza made in car parts trays in Detroit and more pizza in Chicago, Darley’s tried it all.…Darley Newman joins Brent to talk about the new season (her 12th!) of Travels with Darley and all the great things she ate & drank along the way. From mole and cocktails infused with local honey in Santa Fe to pizza made in car parts trays in Detroit and more pizza in Chicago, Darley’s tried it all. Plus, visits to cool places like the Indian Market and Motown Musuem. [Ep 319]
