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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
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Content provided by Joe Saul-Sehy & Crystal Hammond, Joe Saul-Sehy, and Crystal Hammond. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Joe Saul-Sehy & Crystal Hammond, Joe Saul-Sehy, and Crystal Hammond or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Ready to dive into your next adventure? Begin your next travel adventure with us so you're inspired and prepared to do more, see more, and enjoy your trip. Hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond walk you through not only their stories, but also those of fellow adventurers. They talk to experts in travel, accommodations, booking flights, and more.
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115 episodes
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Content provided by Joe Saul-Sehy & Crystal Hammond, Joe Saul-Sehy, and Crystal Hammond. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Joe Saul-Sehy & Crystal Hammond, Joe Saul-Sehy, and Crystal Hammond or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Ready to dive into your next adventure? Begin your next travel adventure with us so you're inspired and prepared to do more, see more, and enjoy your trip. Hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond walk you through not only their stories, but also those of fellow adventurers. They talk to experts in travel, accommodations, booking flights, and more.
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115 episodes
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 David's Adventures Around Mont Blanc: Hiking, Gear, and Trail Tales 52:45
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhat do you get when you mix alpine grandeur, French wine, and a few awkward encounters with public transportation? The trek of a lifetime. Joe and Crystal sit down with globe-trotting guest David to relive his incredible Tour du Mont Blanc—an iconic hike that crosses France, Italy, and Switzerland. From cultural quirks to culinary delights (hello, croissants and polenta!), David shares what it’s really like to hike Europe’s most scenic loop. You’ll hear trail-tested tips on how to train, what to pack, and how to avoid blowing your budget—or your knees—on the way. Whether you’re planning your own hiking getaway or just dreaming from the couch, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and a few “you won’t believe this” moments from the trail. Here’s what’s packed in our metaphorical backpack today: 🎬 The Sound of Music made us do it: What movie scenes and mountain views have in common 🥾 Crossing borders on foot: Why the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate passport stamp 🎒 What NOT to forget in your pack (and what David says you absolutely don’t need) 💡 Accommodations, luggage hacks, and trail shortcuts for the savvy traveler 🍷 Why hiking is better with wine and what David learned about blending adventure and indulgence 🧀 Croissants in France, coffee in Italy, fondue in Switzerland… need we say more? 🗣️ Struggling with French? We’ve got stories—and survival phrases 🚶♂️ What to know about rest days, restrooms, and rustic beds Whether you're dreaming of alpine treks or just here for the croissant jokes, this episode is your trailhead to adventure. 🧭 Thinking about planning your own trip? David now runs Blaze Adventure Tours—hear how he custom-builds trips for hikers and cyclists who want the thrill without the stress. David's company link: Home - Blaze Adventure Tours- Bicycle Tours and Backpacking…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Donna's Pre-Cruise Puerto Rico Pit Stop Adventure 47:26
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIs it Caribbean or Caribbe-an ? We kick off this episode of Stacking Adventures with the great pronunciation debate—then head straight into a destination you can explore without needing a passport: Puerto Rico. Hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond welcome travel advisor Donna Pelletier from Vacations by Donna, who shares highlights from her recent pre-cruise mini-adventure in Puerto Rico. While it wasn’t a deep-dive vacation, Donna packed in just enough to give us a taste of what’s possible in a short visit—and how to make the most of your own. In this episode: Where to stay when time is limited (Donna’s take on the Hilton Garden Inn) Smart ways to squeeze in dining, cocktails, and local flavor without overcommitting Kayaking, ATVs, casinos, and other mini excursions worth considering A few surprising insights—like how a quick stop at Walmart can save your trip How to lower stress and costs when adding Puerto Rico to your cruise itinerary Plus, don’t miss our Gear of the Day pick that can save your soles when you’re pounding pavement between piña coladas. Whether Puerto Rico is your main event or just a quick stop, this episode is full of practical, doable adventure hacks for travelers on the go.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Heather's Adventure Bartering Her Way Across the USA 30:51
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedTrading skills, transporting pigs, and building a life of freedom on the open road. What if instead of budgeting your way around the world, you bartered your way through it? In this episode of Stacking Adventures , hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond sit down with travel writer and full-time nomad Heather Jacks, who has turned bartering into an art form while living in her beloved bus, Bubba. From growing up on Indian land to crossing the Australian outback, from working at Starbucks to navigating the uncertainty of the COVID era on the road, Heather shares how she’s learned to trade what she has—her words, her work ethic, even her typing skills—for what she needs. You’ll hear: How she bartered her way across the country, including one story that involves a pig and a gas tank Clever ways to swap your skills for essentials while traveling The emotional and logistical ups and downs of life on the move How she handled moments of risk, including a brush with robbery in Nashville What she’s learned about resilience, reinvention, and staying curious in a world that doesn’t always go to plan Whether you’re dreaming of life on the road or just want a few creative ideas for living well on less, Heather’s story is full of resourceful inspiration and unforgettable moments. Because sometimes the best currency isn’t cash—it’s creativity.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Kate and Kimberly's Slow Travel Adventure: Europe, Central & South America 1:08:22
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhat happens when you ditch the itinerary, close the spreadsheet, and simply wander? In this episode, we meet Kate and Kimberly, two adventurous travelers who swapped rushed vacations for a months-long slow travel journey across Europe and Latin America. And trust us—it’s not just about beautiful views (though there are plenty of those). They share with Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy what it’s really like to: Roam the winding streets of Venice, Florence, and Cinque Terre without a rigid plan Embrace the unexpected—from Christmas markets in Austria to Carnival in Brazil Discover the rhythm of life in places like Guatemala, Argentina, and Portugal Balance remote work and travel without losing the magic (or the Wi-Fi) Say no to travel perfectionism and yes to getting gloriously lost Along the way, they reflect on the challenges of long-term travel, the joy of lingering in one place, and why slowing down can lead to deeper cultural experiences—and better stories. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to take your time, immerse yourself in a new place, and make the world feel just a little smaller… this episode is your passport. Pack light, take your time, and come wander with us.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
We're BACK in Thailand with YOU, and the stories are (as expected) all over the map, and incredible. From backpacking to ending up in the ER, you've had some southeast Asian adventures. So...what happens when your perfect travel plans meet reality? In this episode, we dive into real-life stories from travelers who found magic in the mayhem—and lessons in the chaos. You’ll hear: Jesse Cramer’s wild honeymoon tale from the Phi Phi Islands (spoiler: scuba diving doesn’t always go to plan) A heartwarming and eye-opening moment from listener Denise at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai Crystal Hammond’s savvy, budget-smart tips from her trip to Thailand Unexpected twists and local discoveries from travelers like Laurel, Katie, and Chris, who embraced the highs and lows of travel with curiosity and courage These stories aren’t just entertaining—they’re full of reminders that the best parts of an adventure often happen when things go off the itinerary. And before we wrap, don’t miss our Gear of the Day—a small but mighty item that might just save your next trip from turning into a logistical nightmare. So pack light, stay curious, and get ready for tales that might just inspire your next journey.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Adventure Hacks and Travel Tales from TravelCon 2025 46:06
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhat happens when you take a bus to Travel Con, pack a Pilates bar, and chase the best local experiences? Crystal finds out. Crystal Hammond returns from Travel Con with her backpack full of insider tips, unexpected laughs, and some seriously useful travel hacks. From the moment she stepped on a shuttle in Tucson, this adventure was all about curiosity, connection, and clever ways to travel smarter. 🧭 In this episode: A behind-the-scenes look at Travel Con—including the quirky bus ride that kicked it all off Must-know gear tips, like collapsible water bottles and a surprisingly travel-friendly Pilates bar Why Airbnb Experiences are the secret to unlocking a destination’s real culture Smart ways to save money using airport shuttles, public transport, and Costco car rentals Sustainable travel practices and how to stay grounded (even when jet-lagged) Credit card strategies and road trip snack wisdom that might just change how you pack Plus, Crystal shares tips from fellow adventurers she met along the way—like Dominic’s genius hack, new tricks for navigating unfamiliar cities, and how to keep a routine while still saying yes to spontaneity. 🌍 Bottom line: If you want your next trip to be more intentional, more fun, and way less expensive, this episode is your passport to better adventures. Looking for our gear-of-the-day? Head to https://stackingadventures.com/gotd Hoping to contribute to a future show? Tell your story at https://stackingadventures.com/mystory…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Is stacking just a fun pastime… or is there real science behind the obsession? Today, we go deep— clinically deep —into the phenomenon of stacking with Dr. Nicole Meli from Moreland Hills University, the leading researcher on the psychology and history behind our favorite pastime. Joining the conversation is Crystal Hammond, world record holder in Lego stacking (yes, really), and Joe Saul-Sehy, who may not hold any records but definitely has opinions. From the dopamine hit of a perfect stack to the dark side of stacking gone too far, this episode is filled with enlightening research, relatable stories, and a few jaw-dropping confessions. In this episode: The fascinating psychology of stacking—why we do it, what it triggers, and how it started Crystal Hammond’s journey to stacking greatness (with a few literal and figurative collapses) Dr. Meli explains when stacking becomes too much—and how to spot the warning signs Listener stories of stacking triumphs and near-disasters A special edition Gear of the Day reveal that might just change your stacking game A totally professional commercial break that definitely didn’t go off the rails Whether you’re a casual stacker, an adventure addict, or someone trying to understand a loved one’s growing collection of “just one more stackable thing,” this episode brings science, insight, and plenty of laughter. 🎧 Tune in and discover the science behind your next great adventure—one stack at a time.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Do you dream of embarking on a legendary pilgrimage filled with breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable encounters, and just enough unexpected twists to keep things interesting? This episode, we lace up our boots and dive into the adventure of a lifetime: hiking the Camino de Santiago with special guest Tom Schwab (founder: Interview Valet). Tom trekked 500 miles in 26 days alongside his wife, Karen, and he’s here to spill the details—from the magic of the journey to the blisters that tried to ruin it. We cover everything from essential packing tips to the cultural moments that made the Camino unforgettable. Plus, Tom reveals one hiking item he swears by: Salty Britches (trust us, you’ll want to hear this one). In this episode: Crystal’s Hiking Adventure in Tucson – A warm-up before the main event! Camino 101: What You Need to Know – Planning, packing, and why this pilgrimage is unlike any other hike. Daily Life on the Trail – Walking, eating, meeting fellow adventurers, and dodging blisters. Travel Logistics & Points Hacks – How to fly into France, traverse Spain, and make the most of your journey. Reaching the Cathedral – What it feels like to finally step into Santiago after weeks on foot. Language Barriers & Cultural Moments – Spoiler: Smiling and hand gestures go a long way. Gear of the Day: The One Item That Saves Hikers Everywhere – Hint: It’s not what you think. Whether you’re planning your own Camino adventure or just love hearing about epic travel stories, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a few surprises along the way. 🎧 Tune in and take the first step toward your next great adventure! Looking for our gear of the week? Head to https://stackingadventures.com/gotd…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Ever dreamed of jetting off to Thailand for a mix of adventure, culture, and surprisingly affordable luxury? Crystal takes center stage in this episode, sharing her 2019 journey across three stunning islands, giving us an inside look at Thailand’s vibrant food scene, picturesque beaches, and budget-friendly splurges. Flights with Qatar Airlines – Was the experience worth it, and what should you know before booking? Bangkok like a pro – From street markets to tuk-tuk rides, what’s worth your time (and what’s just a tourist trap)? Wedding in Thailand? – A unique celebration in an unexpected location. Island hopping & hidden gems – Diving, speedboat rides, and the luxurious Jamahkiri Resort & Spa experience. The best travel gear to make your trips "betterer." Because the right gear can turn a good trip into a great one. If you’ve ever wanted to explore Thailand on a reasonable budget without sacrificing amazing experiences, Crystal’s got the tips and insights to make it happen. Plus, there’s a wild snack discovery that might just surprise you. Find our Gear of the Day pick and ALL of our cool adventuring gear at https://stackingadventures.com/gotd…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Strap on your hiking boots (or just grab a comfy chair) as Crystal, Joe, and a crew of adventure enthusiasts take you on a journey through the wild wonders of Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Muir Woods. Expect epic tales, unexpected detours, and a few moments of sheer survival mode—because what’s a national park trip without a little chaos? In this episode: Amanda’s Grand Canyon Trek – She and her friends tackled the canyon, but did they make it out in one piece? (Spoiler: Yes, but not without stories to tell.) Joe vs. Two-Year-Olds at the Grand Canyon – Ever tried hiking with toddlers? Joe has, and let’s just say gravity was not on his side. Karen’s Husband, the Yellowstone Trickster – Nothing stops traffic like a bear sighting… or at least the illusion of one. Karen’s husband puts this theory to the test, sending eager tourists into full camera-clicking mode—for absolutely nothing. Avoiding the Crowds Like a Pro – Discover secret pockets of peace in America's most popular parks (yes, even Yellowstone). West Virginia Wonders – Amanda swaps canyons for the serene beauty of New River Gorge—a hidden gem for adventurers. The ‘Gear of the Day’ Mystery – Can you guess what travel essential keeps adventurers cozy in all conditions? We reveal a Smart Wool secret that’ll change your packing game. Coming Soon: Thailand Teasers – Get a sneak peek at our next journey—think elephants, street food, and maybe a tuk-tuk race or two. Whether you’re a national park newbie or a seasoned trailblazer, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical tips, and a little friendly chaos to fuel your next outdoor adventure. 🎧 Tune in and let’s hit the trail!…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Today we talk to not one but TWO guests who BOTH know how to save TONS of money on travel. First, Chris Hutchens from All The Hacks podcast LOVES to find ways to travel the world for nothing (or next to nothing). Second, George Igoe has a top series on the Million Stories YouTube page about seeing different cities for $100 or less. He shares some of his favorites on today's show! These interviews are from 2022, so if there's any mention of prizes, giveaways, or current events, realize this is a Greatest Hits episode from Stacking Benjamins. Our Stacking Adventures show returns with NEW shows next week (but we HAD to play this one today because it's so, so, so good).…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
Remember when Libby Gifford raved about Olympic National Park being her all-time favorite? Well, we took that as a challenge and just wrapped up an epic two-day adventure through its jaw-dropping landscapes. Spoiler alert: Libby was absolutely right. From the snow-capped peaks of Hurricane Ridge to the rugged coastline of Rialto and Ruby Beach, we packed in as much as possible—including hidden gems like Crescent Lake, unforgettable hikes, and some close encounters with wildlife (hello, bald eagles and sea lions!). If you’re planning your own Olympic National Park getaway, we’ve got you covered with insider tips on accommodations, must-see spots, and the things we wish we knew before we went. And yes, we’ll get into tide pooling, because if you’re not checking out sea stars and anemones, are you even doing this trip right? Oh, and stick around for our "Gear of the Day" pick—a must-have for your next outdoor adventure. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: Libby’s Favorite Park: Why Olympic National Park tops her list. Getting There: The journey to the park and what to expect. Crescent Lake: The perfect mix of serenity and scenery. Cape Flattery Adventure: Standing at the northwesternmost point of the U.S. mainland. Tide Pooling at Rialto Beach: Why you need to bring waterproof shoes (trust us). Staying at Kalaloch Lodge: A scenic spot with interesting pricing. The Iconic Tree of Life: The gravity-defying tree you need to see. Ruby Beach & Other Coastal Stops: Unbeatable views and moody PNW vibes. Lake Alt & Historical Hikes: Trails, history, and why you should bring extra snacks. Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, sea lions, and more surprises. Olympia Side Trip: Pizza wins and losses, parking struggles. Travel Tips & Lessons Learned: What to know before you go. Gear of the Day: Our top pick for making your next adventure even better. Key Takeaways from the Episode: ✔️ Olympic National Park is ridiculously diverse. Snowy mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches—all in one trip. ✔️ Plan your accommodations wisely. Some spots are worth the price, others… not so much. ✔️ Tide pooling is a must. Just don’t forget waterproof shoes unless you enjoy ice-cold toes. ✔️ Wildlife sightings are next-level. Bring binoculars—you never know what you’ll see. ✔️ Olympia has meh pizza. Parking, however, is another story altogether. Tune in now for the ultimate guide to exploring Olympic National Park and making the most of your adventure!…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Our Top 5 Most Romantic Destinations (SA024) 59:08
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedToday Joe and Crystal embark on a journey to the world’s most romantic destinations. From the sun-kissed beaches of Indonesia to the charming gondolas of Venice, they reveal their top five picks for couples seeking unforgettable getaways. Along the way, they explore breathtaking hotels, intimate dining spots, and hidden gems in Greece, France, Italy, and beyond. Even if you're not romantically involved, you'll find yourself falling in love with ALL of these places. Not just about faraway escapes, Joe and Crystal also highlight romantic locales closer to home—perfect for a spontaneous weekend retreat. And for those who love to stay active while traveling, don’t miss their Gear of the Day pick: a fitness tracker that keeps you on time and in shape wherever love takes you. Highlights from this episode: 🌍 Enchanting romantic destinations across the globe 🏝️ Exotic beach escapes and historic European cities ❤️ Hidden gems and personal travel love stories 🏨 Luxurious stays and dreamy dining experiences 🎒 Gear of the Day : A must-have fitness tracker Whether you're planning your next big trip or just dreaming about future adventures, tune in for inspiring stories, expert recommendations, and the ultimate romantic travel guide! Stacking Adventures: Where wanderlust meets love.…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 An 8-Year-Old's Pigeon-Powered Italian Adventure (SA023) 52:01
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedCan a pigeon lead to an Italian adventure? Turns out, yes! 🐦 Join Crystal and Joe as they chat with Adventure Annette about a spontaneous, bird-inspired journey through Rome, Venice, and Pompeii—all thanks to her son's unexpected obsession with pigeons. What’s Inside This Episode? 🏛 Rome: The Eternal City – Walking is the best way to explore (and dodge tourist traps). Annette shares insider tips on hidden gems, cheap eats, and why Rome’s fountains aren’t just for decoration. 🎭 The Colosseum Experience – Gladiators, history, and why booking ahead can save you hours. 🎒 The Gear of the Day – Travel smarter with one essential item that keeps you prepared for any travel weather. 🏺 Pompeii: A Journey Through Time – What it’s really like to walk through the ruins of an ancient city frozen in time. 🛶 Venice: Beyond the Crowds – First impressions, best ways to explore, and why the colorful islands of Murano and Burano should be on your itinerary. 💰 How to Save on Flights, Hotels & More – Annette’s spontaneous travel hacks that can save you big bucks on your next European getaway. ✨ Final Thoughts & Souvenirs – What’s worth bringing home from Italy (besides incredible memories)? Takeaways for Travel-Loving Stackers: ✅ Spontaneity = Magic. Planning is great, but leaving room for surprises leads to the best adventures. ✅ Walking beats waiting. Exploring Rome on foot saves money and reveals hidden treasures most tourists miss. ✅ Book smart. Annette shares how to score last-minute hotel deals and avoid overpaying. ✅ Escape the crowds. Venice has secrets beyond St. Mark’s Square—Annette shares where to go for the real magic. 🎧 Hit play now and join us for a whirlwind Italian adventure! 🇮🇹✈️✨…
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Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story
1 Exploring National Parks with Libby Gifford (SA022) 1:10:19
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedEver wonder which U.S. national parks are truly breathtaking—and which ones might not live up to the hype? Today, Joe and Crystal sit down with Libby Gifford, a seasoned park explorer and co-organizer of TravelCon, to swap stories about awe-inspiring landscapes, unexpected surprises, and the parks that didn’t quite make their bucket list. Along the way, you’ll hear: 🏕️ Crystal’s shocking confession—why she hasn’t set foot in a national park (yet). 🌄 Hidden gems & overrated spots—Libby and Joe break down the best (and meh-est) parks they’ve visited. 🏜️ Wild landscapes—from the surreal dunes of White Sands to the rugged beauty of Big Bend and the extremes of Death Valley. 🏔️ Trail talk—debating whether Glacier National Park is truly the crown jewel of the system. 🚶♂️ Epic hikes & must-do adventures—Zion’s The Narrows and Angel’s Landing, the wonders of Olympic National Park, and the best of Southern Utah. 🌲 Acadia: Overrated or underrated? The debate rages on. 🏕️ Camping tips & park hacks—how to plan your adventure like a pro (and avoid rookie mistakes). 🎤 TravelCon scoop—why travel lovers, bloggers, and content creators need to check it out. Whether you’re a seasoned park explorer or planning your first visit, this episode is packed with inspiration, expert tips, and a few laughs along the way. Resources & Links Learn more about TravelCon → https://travelcon.org Join our Stacking Adventures Community on Facebook for more travel stories & tips…
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