Travel Wins

From The Gridiron to Visionary Photographer: Tony Mandarich reinvents greatnessSome careers define chapters. Others rewrite entire stories.In this episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Tony Mandarich — known first to the world as a powerhouse offensive lineman, and now celebrated as a bold, imaginative photographer based in Arizona. His journey from the roar of football stadiums to the quiet precision of the studio is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless curiosity.Tony has always believed that true greatness lies beyond the comfort zone — that exceptional accomplishments demand the courage to explore uncharted territory. That belief took root early. During the mid-1980s at Michigan State University, he became a dominant force on the field, earning All-American honors twice and being named Big Ten Lineman of the Year in both 1987 and 1988. His team claimed the Big Ten Championship and the 1988 Rose Bowl title, cementing his place in college football history.Drafted second overall in the 1989 NF

On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, host Pete Kotzbach sits down with rising Texas-based country rock band Dear Iris for an honest conversation about music, travel, sacrifice, and chasing a dream while managing real-life responsibilities.Forged in the heart of East Texas, Dear Iris delivers a powerful blend of Texas country music and alternative rock grit. From the driving energy of “Kylie’s Song” to the emotional depth of “Restless On You,” the band’s sound is rooted in authentic storytelling and shaped by the miles they’ve logged on the road. Their music reflects both where they come from and where they’re headed — grounded in Texas soil but reaching for something much bigger.What makes this episode especially compelling is the band’s transparency about the reality of being an independent touring band. Dear Iris doesn’t tour full-time — they tour around day jobs, family commitments, and real-world responsibilities. During the week, they’re clocking in at work and showing up for their families. When

Country singer-songwriter Mark Mackay joins The Travel Wins Podcast to share his journey through thousands of shows, iconic venues, and endless miles on the road.In this episode, Mark talks about:·         How travel influences his songwriting·         Staying authentic in today’s music industry·         The stories behind songs like “Old Songs and Old Trucks”·         Balancing creative growth with staying true to your rootsIf you love American roots music, country-rock, and real conversations about life on the road, this episode delivers.

Shepherding a Healthier Future for Pets — A Conversation with Shepherd Boy Farms CEO Ashton HoodWhen passion for animals meets generations of farm-bred expertise, something remarkable happens. That’s exactly the story behind Shepherd Boy Farms — and in my latest episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with the company’s CEO, Ashton Hood, to explore how a Midwest family farm transformed itself into one of the most trusted names in premium pet nutrition.What started as a leading American meat supplier has evolved into a mission-driven brand redefining how we nourish our four-legged family members. Ashton shares how Shepherd Boy Farms recognized a massive gap in the global pet-food industry and stepped in with a simple, powerful promise: whole ingredients, honest processing, and farm-to-bowl integrity.Their Indiana farm now processes and packages top-quality pet products made with real beef, garden-fresh veggies, and natural fruits, offering dogs and cats around the world the kind of nutrition you'd expect from a

In this episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Gale Bird, one of Charleston, South Carolina’s most compelling rising bands—known for their harmony-rich intimacy, electrifying stage energy, and storytelling rooted in Lowcountry life. If you’re a fan of southern Americana, indie rock warmth, and authentic artistry, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Gale Bird is a trio with a rare balance: powerful enough to lift a roof with full-band rock-and-roll, yet intentional enough to quiet a packed room with soft, layered harmonies. Their performances feel big and cinematic one moment, and then suddenly personal—like you’re hearing a song in your living room with old friends.Their sound was shaped by longtime friends Joshua Gale and Sean Monahan, who began writing songs together in their early twenties while attending college in Charleston. After years of life, travel, and creative growth, they reunited with a mission to finish what they started. The missing piece arrived right at home: Joshua’s wife, Meliss

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, host Pete Kotzbach sits down with Luke Schneider, CEO and co-founder of Fire Department Coffee, to explore how a mission-driven company grew from the firehouse to Walmart shelves across America.A U.S. Navy veteran and firefighter, Luke’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and leadership. What began as a small-batch coffee roasting operation has become a nationally recognized brand — one that not only delivers great coffee but also gives back through the Fire Dept. Coffee Foundation, supporting injured and ill first responders.☕ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:·Luke’s journey from firefighter to successful CEO·The story behind Fire Department Coffee’s Walmart expansion· How business travel drives growth and brand partnerships· Balancing leadership, travel, and family life· The company’s mission to serve those who serve usWhether you’re a business traveler, entrepreneur, or coffee lover, this conversation will fuel your motivation to build with purpose

In this inspiring new episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with the incredible Autumn Adele, who recently took a bold leap and relocated to France!We dive deep into her journey of embracing change — from the challenges of adapting to a brand-new culture and lifestyle, to the exciting opportunities that come with career flexibility. Autumn opens up about the highs and lows of expat life, offering honest reflections and valuable takeaways for anyone curious about starting a new chapter abroad.Whether you're dreaming of moving overseas or simply love hearing real stories of reinvention, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and heart.

Meet Michael J. Wistock: The Executive by Day, Rockstar by NightWhat does it take to thrive in two drastically different worlds—corporate boardrooms and rock stages—while still managing to keep your feet on the ground (and your heart full)? My guest, Michael J. Wistock, is the definition of a modern renaissance man who proves that passion and professionalism don’t have to live in separate lanes.By title, Michael holds a high-powered position in the corporate world as Senior Vice President of Global Sales in the telecom space. His work takes him around the globe, navigating strategic partnerships, closing multimillion-dollar deals, and leading teams in high-stakes environments. But what truly sets Michael apart is that once the blazer comes off, the mic comes on.That’s right—Michael is also the frontman and creative heartbeat behind The Sunset Riot, a rock band that blends gritty soul, explosive guitar riffs, and raw emotion into a sound that stays with you long after the lights go down. Whether it’s writing l

Between the Waves of Family, Work & Travel | Mike Love Jr. on The Travel WinsThis week’s episode of The Travel Wins brings a powerful and heartfelt conversation with Mike Love Jr., whose life story is beautifully captured in his newly authored book, Between The Waves.More than just a memoir, Between The Waves dives deep into Mike’s personal journey—his relationship with his mom and his famous father, and the lessons learned in the spaces between family, work, and the open road. It’s a story of love, resilience, and self-discovery that resonates far beyond the spotlight.

Get ready for a wild ride

Meet the “Worm Queen” – Kim RogersThis week on The Travel Wins, I’m thrilled to welcome Kim Rogers — a seasoned wellness professional turned holistic health pioneer with over two decades of experience in Western medicine.After facing her own health challenges in 2019, Kim shifted her focus from conventional medicine to natural healing. Her personal journey led her to found RogersHood Apothecary in December 2021, and to create the globally recognized

Unlocking Holistic Health on the Road | Dr. Chris Motley on The Travel Wins PodcastIn this powerful episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Dr. Chris Motley, a globally respected alternative health practitioner and host of the hit Ancient Health Podcast. Known for his expertise in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), frequency medicine, and applied kinesiology, Dr. Motley shares his insights on staying healthy and energized—especially for professionals who live life on the go.With over 120,000 downloads, the Ancient Health Podcast is a top destination for listeners seeking natural health solutions. Dr. Motley has interviewed leading experts like Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Josh Axe, and Dr. Mindy Pelz, combining ancient healing techniques with the latest in functional medicine.During our conversation, we explore how frequent flyers, business travelers, and remote professionals can protect their immune systems, manage stress, recover from jet lag, and maintain mental clarity—even in high-pressure, fast-paced envir