Lisa Niver's Blog: We Said Go Travel, page 4

The Must-See Animals at Zoo Negara: Tips, Tickets & More

A Peek into Malaysia���s Premier Wildlife Destination

Nestled just 5 km from the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Zoo Negara is one of Malaysia���s most iconic family attractions. Spanning over 110 acres, this national zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals from over 400 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Managed by the Malaysian Zoological Society, Zoo Negara has played a vital role in conservation, education, and research since its opening in 1963. It���s not just a zoo���it���s an engaging journey into the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a family with kids, Zoo Negara offers an enriching experience for all age groups.

Ticket Types and Prices

Before diving into the star attractions, it���s helpful to understand your entry options. There are several types of Zoo Negara ticket categories tailored to different visitor groups:

Standard Tickets: These are for Malaysian citizens and foreign tourists, with prices varying based on nationality and age group (adult, child, senior citizen).

Group Packages: Ideal for schools, corporate groups, or tour packages, these often come with guided tours or educational sessions.

Annual Passes: For frequent visitors or locals, annual memberships offer unlimited entry throughout the year along with special privileges.

Conservation Tickets: Some tickets contribute directly to the zoo���s ongoing conservation and animal welfare programs.

Remember to carry your identification or passport to ensure accurate pricing at the ticket counters.

Must-See Animals at Zoo Negara

With so many animals to discover, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here���s a list of must-see creatures that make the Zoo Negara ticket truly worth the visit:

1. Giant Pandas

The adorable stars of Zoo Negara, Xing Xing and Liang Liang, reside in a specially built Giant Panda Conservation Centre. Their peaceful bamboo-munching lifestyle and gentle behavior make them a favorite among visitors. The air-conditioned enclosure also offers educational exhibits about panda conservation and their natural habitat.

2. Malayan Tigers

Symbolic of Malaysia���s wildlife heritage, the Malayan Tiger is a critically endangered species. Zoo Negara provides a rare chance to observe these majestic animals up close, and the tiger enclosure is designed to simulate a natural forest environment.

3. Orangutans

Known for their intelligence and strong familial bonds, orangutans are fascinating primates to observe. Zoo Negara���s orangutan section allows visitors to witness their tree-climbing skills and interactive behavior, often drawing attention for their human-like expressions.

4. African Savannah Zone

This open-concept exhibit simulates the African grasslands and is home to giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and antelopes. It���s one of the most photogenic areas of the zoo and offers a scenic walk with plenty of educational signage.

5. Reptile House

For those interested in the cold-blooded side of nature, the Reptile House showcases snakes, lizards, turtles, and even crocodiles. It���s both educational and thrilling, particularly for kids fascinated by reptiles.

6. Birds and Aviary Section

Zoo Negara features a large aviary where birds like hornbills, flamingos, eagles, and peacocks roam freely. Their vibrant feathers and melodic calls make this section especially enjoyable for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts.

7. Aquarium and Amphibian World

An indoor highlight of the zoo, this section features a variety of freshwater and marine species. It���s a peaceful break from the outdoor exhibits and introduces you to the lesser-known, yet equally important, aquatic species.

Visiting Tips for the Best Experience

To make the most of your visit to Zoo Negara, keep these practical tips in mind:

Arrive Early: The zoo opens at 9 AM. Arriving early allows you to explore comfortably before the afternoon heat.

Wear Comfortable Attire: Lightweight clothing, walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.

Hydration is Key: Bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Check Feeding Times: Animal feeding sessions are scheduled at different times and are great opportunities to learn from zookeepers.

Follow Signage: The zoo is well-mapped with directions and educational boards. Following the route helps cover most exhibits without missing out.

Photography: While photography is allowed, avoid using flash as it can disturb the animals.

Respect the Animals: Avoid tapping on enclosures, feeding, or attempting to touch the animals.

A trip to Zoo Negara offers much more than just a day out���it���s an immersive encounter with wildlife that educates, entertains, and inspires. With your Zoo Negara ticket, you gain access to a world of animal wonders and conservation efforts, all set within a natural and welcoming environment.

Plan your visit to discover these incredible creatures and more at one of Southeast Asia���s top zoological parks.

The post The Must-See Animals at Zoo Negara: Tips, Tickets & More appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Communications Redefined: Chasing Adventure: Travel Journalist Lisa Niver���s Global Odyssey

Thank you Angela Tuell for interviewing me on Communications Redefined: “Chasing Adventure: Travel Journalist Lisa Niver���s Global Odyssey”

Angela Tuell: 0:05

Welcome to Media in Minutes. This is your host, Angela Tuell. This podcast features in-depth interviews with those who report on the world around us. They share everything from their favorite stories to what happened behind the lens and give us a glimpse into their world From our studio here at Communications Redefined. This is Media in Minutes.

On today���s episode, we are talking with award-winning travel journalist, tv host and author, Lisa Niver. Lisa is an adventurer who has explored all seven continents and over 100 countries. She is also the award-winning author of Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After 50. With a passion for pushing boundaries, she has journeyed through the desert in Mongolia, scuba dived with bull sharks in Mexico, snorkeled with whale sharks in the Philippines and swam with the humpback whales in Tonga. Her adventures include polar bear walking safaris in Canada, twice taking a polar plunge in Antarctica and experiencing thrilling safari encounters with Africa���s Big Five. Lisa is also a sought-after international speaker and the host of the podcast Make your Own Map!

Hi, Lisa.

Lisa Niver: 1:23

Hi Angela, I���m so excited to be here with you.

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Angela Tuell: 1:26

Me too, I am very much looking forward to talking with you today. In researching for this episode, I determined I must start with your fairly recent book and memoir Brave-ish, which I love. One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless after 50. Please tell us more about your story and how you became a travel journalist.

Lisa Niver: 1:50

Well, thank you so much. I���m so excited to be here with you and, yes, I have a memoir -Brave-ish. It���s kind of funny about that book is a lot about my travel journalist journey. How I got started. I was teaching and I left on an adventure and my students were really sad that I was leaving and I promised to send back a newsletter and while I was traveling for a year, mostly in Asia, it was the beginning of the blog revolution and so when I came back from that trip, I started We Said Go Travel, which is my travel site. I started that in 2010. And building that site was the beginning of becoming an actual, real travel journalist.

Angela Tuell: 2:39

So you were a teacher. Was that your first career?

Lisa Niver: 2:42

No, I tell people my career is like remember the game shoots and ladders. I grew up in California, I went to Penn, I went to med school in California. I wasn���t that happy. I took a year out. I tried to think about what made me happy and I ended up starting to teach and while I was in my sort of gap year after college –now it���s much more popular to take a gap year. At the time, I had studied in Israel for a semester abroad and anyway, I guess we can call it my gap year. I learned to scuba dive and I fell in love with scuba diving and I was teaching. I also worked for a little while at Planned Parenthood because I was like, am I going back into medicine? Am I doing education? Where am I in science? Right? So when I was teaching, I really couldn���t afford these exotic, amazing scuba trips that everyone else was going on, so I ended up.

Lisa Niver: 3:43

a friend of my sister���s had worked for Club Med and, through a series of crazy events, which is all in my book, I ended up working for Club Med skiing.

Angela Tuell: 3:54

Okay.

Lisa Niver: 3:55

Which is confusing, because I told you I wanted to go scuba diving, but that���s how it got started.

Angela Tuell: 3:59

Right, there���s quite a difference between cold weather sports and warm weather sports, although it doesn���t have to be warm to scuba dive, right, if you have the right gear. No, it doesn���t.

Lisa Niver: 4:08

After Club Med, I worked for seven years on cruise ships and at one point my dive buddy and I from the Caribbean we actually went scuba diving in Juneau in Alaska in dry suits.

Angela Tuell: 4:19

Wow, okay. So yes, that is a thing.

Lisa Niver: 4:23

Dry suits. Cold is a thing, When I was working on the memoir and going back and forth through my whole career, you can see that there were a lot of through lines. But it���s hard when you���re in your 20s or trying to figure out. During COVID or after 9-11, which were all things that shifted my career again you don���t have a lot of perspective. Sometimes, when you���re in the middle of the storm, you think– am I making good choices? Should I keep going? Do I start over? A lot of times I went back and taught. I thought I���ll just go teach again and figure out what am I going to do next?

Angela Tuell: 4:59

Yes, so how did you make it your career then? The travel writing? At what point did that happen and how���d you do it?

Lisa Niver: 5:07

I was teaching and traveling, and teaching and traveling. I had started the website and I went on another long trip. So one of the things that helped make it my career was having very low expenses and traveling in Asia on low expenses. I could run the website and hone my craft. I did not go to journalism school but I started going to different workshops and there���s so many conferences. I have a whole playlist on my YouTube channel. That���s just all the different conference videos going to travel classics, tbex, imm. I don���t think there���s a conference I���ve heard of that. I haven���t been to, although I am going to a new conference in April. I���m going for the first time to Sea-Trade, which is the cruise line industry, so I���ll be there. I���m going to be in Miami for Sea-Trade and then I���m going on the brand new MSC ship. I���d say that what made my career happen is really a lot of networking and persistence.

Angela Tuell: 6:08

Yeah, you have to be very self-motivated in that type of career.

Lisa Niver: 6:13

Yeah, people ask me — how do you get so many videos done, or how do you get so many articles published? I tell them it���s because I used to be a teacher and I basically just give myself homework.

Angela Tuell: 6:24

And deadlines right.

Lisa Niver: 6:25

And deadlines. Yes, ma���am.

Angela Tuell: 6:28

So you mentioned spending three years traveling across Asia. What was the most surprising thing you learned?

Lisa Niver: 6:36

The most surprising thing I learned is that you really don���t need a lot of stuff, and that slowing down can make travel so much better. I noticed sometimes people will be on a short trip and they���ll ask me –Can I go to these four countries in Europe on my seven day trip? and–you can, but you���re going to come home so tired. You���ll definitely get a flavor. On a cruise, going to a country every day is different because you only unpack once. I don���t really like the unpacking or wondering will we get there in time? Which room key is it? Do we have the right address? I like to slow down. One trip I went to Mongolia. We went on this 11 day van trip to the Gobi Desert and they told me that we were going to the vast expanse of nothingness and I said, how will I know when I get there? They said– Lisa, you���ll know and I knew.

Lisa Niver: 7:49

Being in Asia felt just so miraculously different. I speak decent Spanish and I could be mostly understood in French and Italian. However, being in Asia. I told someone “Frey Chan Hao” in China. I said Frey Chan Hao. And the man looked at my traveling companion and said I don���t speak English. And he looked at her and said she���s not speaking English. Sometimes it���s very hard to be understood We���re in a really different place. Also, when I was traveling in China, we literally walked up to the bus station, kind of in the middle of nowhere. The Lonely Planet had all of the information in the local dialect characters and I held open the book and some random person looked at the book and I pointed, and they pointed and I put money in my hand and they took money and they put me on the bus.

Angela Tuell: 8:43

And you were hoping you were on the right bus.

Lisa Niver: 8:46

Not only was I hoping I was on the right bus, I was hoping someone would throw me off the bus at the right stop. They could have just taken all my money and not put me on the bus. But I felt like we really trusted in the town. And we went to this little town and the man was making noodles by hand and I took a video of him making the noodles and you can imagine my surprise when he took a video of me eating the noodles.

Lisa Niver: 9:15

And then he showed me a photo of essentially the last Western tourist who���d come into his store and eat. It was a teeny little town, it was a thousand years old. It was amazing. It was in the Lonely Planet. We felt like we were on the backpacker trail sort of. But it���s very different and you just have to really trust that y���all are going to get to the next place literally.

Angela Tuell: 9:44

Right, you have so many incredible travels and you���ve been to over 100 countries. Are there any that you would say top the others? I won���t ask for a very favorite or anything, but ones that really stick out Actually right now.

Lisa Niver: 9:58

You could ask me that because I just went in January to Antarctica, and so that was my final continent and the subtitle of my book says six continents. So I was really hoping during my book tour that I���d get to my final continent, because it felt like such a part of the whole book process. Writing the book and thinking about the book and going to Antarctica. Antarctica to me was such blessing of just believing that you could make something happen, to be invited to go there and write stories.

I went with Quark Expeditions. It���s an expedition ship, so a lot of the things they���re not sure, like this is our plan but we���ll see how it goes. So every night they have recap and briefing and they talk about the day and they said, we always hope when we���re here in this part of Antarctica that we���re going to see all three species of penguins that you might see here. And you know, today we saw the third one, the Adelie penguin. You can only see them in Antarctica. Sometimes people come here and because of the weather or because of the ice, or because of X number of reasons, we don���t see them. And basically every night was like that. They���re like well, we really hope we might be able to go through the Le Maire channel, but we have to wait till we see it with our own eyes and look at the ice and see how the flow is.

Lisa Niver: 11:30

And one morning we were generally up, 7:30am. There���s so much to do with Zodiac cruising and landing, and my ship had two helicopters, which was amazing. So one morning the the speaker goes off, it was 6:20am. “Good morning, get out of your beds, we can see orcas.” Oh, wow, and it felt very magical.

Lisa Niver: 11:57

Some people want all their lives to take their kids to Disneyland. I wanted all my life to go see the ice in Antarctica and I got to do funny things. I travel with a hula hoop and asked for permission and I hula hooped on the bridge of the ship. Then I got permission, I hula hooped at the southernmost post office in the world, at Des Moines Point, and the woman at the post office told me it was the weirdest question anyone had ever asked her– “if someone could hula hoop at the post office.”

Lisa Niver: 12:44

I hula hooped on the fast ice south of the Antarctic Circle. They claim about 800,000 people in human history have been to Antarctica. And they believe just under 100,000 have been south of the Antarctic Circle. And so when we were south of the Antarctic Circle, we were able to come alongside the fast ice and they took out their drills and were checking, was it safe? I took the hula hoop with me. I couldn���t take off my jacket or my life jacket because of the conditions, but I was able to hoop on my arm and so I applied– I���ll have to keep you posted, but I applied for Guinness Book World Record.

Angela Tuell: 13:31

Oh nice, yes, Do keep us posted, and we will make sure to link to these videos in our show notes too, for anyone listening. I do have to ask, and this might go along with that. But what has been the scariest brave thing you���ve done?

Lisa Niver: 13:46

Oh, that���s such a good question, so it���s funny. I normally talk about the scariest one from the 50 that are in the book. I had a lot of eye issues growing up. We believed that I was clumsy and not athletic. It turns out there was something wrong with my eyes. So I had a lot of childhood accidents, and part of this book was, you know, reclaiming myself. I did these 50 things after my divorce to reinvent myself, and so one of the worst accidents I had was biking, and so the scariest thing I did was I went mountain biking in Lake Tahoe on North Star.

Angela Tuell: 14:25

Okay.

Lisa Niver: 14:26

That was super scary and I really was channeling how brave I was when I was on the ship in Antarctica, because I agreed to go stand up paddle boarding in Antarctica. Wow, and the whole time I was so nervous I was going to fall in, yeah, and once I did fall in, of course I had on a dry suit, but once I did fall in, of course I had on a dry suit. But once I did fall in I had a much better time because I wasn���t so worried.

Angela Tuell: 14:54

Yes, I could see that. You mentioned divorce. Was that before you started, before you went fully into travel writing? Or was that in the midst of it all?

Lisa Niver: 15:06

It was in the midst of it all because when I took the year in Asia, I was traveling with the man who I got engaged to the end of that first year and then we got married. When I was traveling again in Asia, that was with him and we had started the website together. I say– we started together. He came up with the name and I did everything else.

Angela Tuell: 15:26

I don���t really think that counts as an even partnership no, no, not at all.

Lisa Niver: 15:33

So I had built a lot of the website and starting to work as a journalist, kind of on and off while I was traveling, and married and then when I came home from Thailand by myself and got divorced, that was when I really went all in like networking with all the PR teams and going more conferences and taking it more as an actual job.

Angela Tuell: 15:58

Yes, okay, makes sense. I���m sure we can read much more about it in the book as well. How often do you travel?

Lisa Niver: 16:08

Now I travel every month. And sometimes twice a month, it depends what���s going on. The Antarctica trip with being in Argentina before and after, I was gone almost three weeks. So that was one trip. And recently I was in Washington DC filming with the Jet Set TV. I did the Ireland TV special that was on The Jet Set TV.

LINK to 2025 Telly Award winning Ireland TV special on The Jet Set TV

Angela Tuell: 16:29

Yes, that���s great. We���ll link to that also. Is there anywhere that you haven���t been? That���s on your list.

Lisa Niver: 16:37

You know it���s funny, people are surprised that there���s still so many things on my list. Okay, I would like to go to both Bhutan and Tibet. In Asia, I have not been to those. That���s top of my list. And although I���ve been almost everywhere in South America, I haven���t been to Brazil, which is the biggest country. When I was working at sea, the ship companies I worked with didn���t go there yet. And in Africa, I���ve been on safari and actually hula hooped with the Maasai warriors, but there���s 53 nations in Africa and I���ve been to four, so there���s a lot of Africa.

Angela Tuell: 17:18

Yes, yes, a lot there. Well, we���ll keep watching and see some of those adventures, right?

Lisa Niver: 17:25

I just love to learn about different people and see how they live, and I really want to go see the silverback gorillas.

Angela Tuell: 17:36

That would be amazing. What are you most proud of professionally so far in your career?

Lisa Niver: 17:43

One of the things I���m the most proud of is my book because, in fairness, it was so hard for me to write, to be so honest about how terrible the situation was in my marriage and the abuse and feeling like a failure and starting over and feeling alone. It was awful to live through, and then writing it a lot of times felt like reliving it in a terrible way. I did write the first part, the first chapter, in my therapist���s office.

Angela Tuell: 18:21

Wow.

Lisa Niver: 18:22

We kept talking about it and she said, do you think it would help you if we did some here and I said– how would we do that? And so we kind of we did a few different versions, tried to figure it out. So I had a lot of support and if I actually was at a book event last night and the woman asked me about my book when we went to dinner and I said, if I had just written the book and never published it, it still was worth it and so cathartic. But it has. The book came out September 2023 and I���m still doing events almost every month for the book. People keep inviting me, which is so I feel very grateful, and the book just won its 10th award.

Angela Tuell: 19:05

Wow, congratulations, that is fantastic, thank you. I know that you also have published it hasn���t just been the book more than 2000 articles in more than three dozen magazines and journals, including I���ll just name a few National Geographic, Wired, Teen Vogue, HuffPost, popsugar, AARP, Hemispheres Today. I could keep going.

Lisa Niver: 19:31

Yes.

Angela Tuell: 19:32

What is your current focus when it comes to articles?

Lisa Niver: 19:36

So lately I���ve been writing a lot for both Readers Digest and Booking.com. Also I have a March story in print in Pasadena Magazine about Ireland, and then in May for Pasadena Magazine I have a story about Antarctica and also I did a walking safari with the polar bears. That���s actually that���s my second Guinness book attempt. My attempt is that I did a polar plunge in the Arctic and the Antarctic within six months. It���s been an exciting, crazy, busy time.

Lisa Niver: 20:23

Yes, yes, I have written for a lot of different places and one of my focuses is to be able to share the destinations that I���m invited to as widely as possible, so including them on The Jet Set TV with an interview about Antarctica. I also spoke in LA on Spectrum News1 about Antarctica:

Angela Tuell: 20:59

So a lot of our audience are PR professionals, publicists, some other journalists. Do you have any stories about working with PR professionals that are most memorable, either in a positive or negative way that could help us learn?

Lisa Niver: 21:06

I think the relationships I���ve built with PR teams that have been the best have been the ones where it���s not just transactional about can you do something with this press release last minute? I have a few people that I���ve worked with literally since 2014 when I came back from Asia, when I first was getting divorced. At the time I was writing a lot for USA Today in the 10Best section and I met a few people in real life. I think that makes a difference to know the people, especially if they���re local, and we get together and go out for a meal and just talk.

Lisa Niver: 21:53

And over the years, with this one particular person, I remember once he called me and at the time he was working with Doubletree and they made this cookbook of cookies where each country or hotel put in their own recipe. And he called me to say–no one will write about this. I said that���s because it���s not a story. “Is there anything you could do to help me?” And at the time I wrote, for SheKnows

Lisa Niver: 22:26

I wrote for Thrive, I wrote for Huffington Post, they���ve all evolved their community open platforms. I said: I have an idea, I can do it for you for SheKnows, but here���s what I want. He said– I will do anything for you. So we���ve had that over the years where he could lean on me and I could figure something out for him and vice versa. When he did a global fam for not just Doubletree but for Hilton, I went. We did two continents and three cities and it was a crazy trip but it was so fun and he said–you���re the top of my list because you help me.

Lisa Niver: 23:11

I think that���s what people sometimes forget is we���re all here together trying to be kind and nice and answer emails and not just be snappy. It really is all about relationships. Like you said, that word is is in public relations, but that is really what helps us all do our job best.

My book came out and a couple of weeks later the massacre happened October 7th in Israel and it���s been a very hard time to be a Jewish journalist and I so appreciate when people say –how are you doing Everyone has a lot of opinions about the United States politics right now, and with good reason, and so people are impacted by that. It is important to know how that impacts someone���s situation with their home life.

Angela Tuell: 24:14

I think that���s important to treat people like actual people.

When we look at a travel journalist or talking with you, it seems like, oh, you���ve got this dream life, but we know it���s so much work as well. Do you do all of your own filming? I mean, obviously, writing, and that sort of thing but do you do everything yourself? And what are the kind of the give and take that you give up for having such a “dream life?”

Lisa Niver: 24:39

So I basically as many ways as you could imagine that it would work is how I do it. For example, in Antarctica, I filmed almost everything myself, except when I needed help and I could manage it. Someone else filmed me hula hooping on the ice or hula hooping across the circle on deck. But I���ve been doing all the editing for that.

For the Ireland TV segmen, that was a full show that we filmed in Ireland. I had a crew with me. I had three people with me, camera, sound and I was all the logistics, but that was a team and then a separate person did all the edits. So that was a big team for relative to being by myself.

Lisa Niver: 25:31

It���s a lot to manage all the emails and the edits and the schedule and running the schedule for social and the podcast and keeping up with pitching, and following up with the editor for the what feels like the 6,000th time…remember, you said you liked my idea, but in a kind of nice way. And as far as the give and take, it can be hard to be away and miss things and try to figure out — can you make it to that event for your friend, or do you have to say no to the trip. It���s definitely some juggling, but everyone that works has to juggle. How many days can they be off? You might not necessarily get to every bat mitzvah or every family holiday because traveling has gotten very expensive. Flights have gone up, a lot, hotels have gone up. I think a lot of people struggle with that from both sides for PR and the journalist side to send people. It���s very expensive.

Angela Tuell: 26:34

It is. It���s very hard and I know I���ve talked about this with others is we completely understand and know that freelance journalists cannot guarantee coverage. There���s another side to it with the clients that are investing so much money and how do we invest this and then not sure if we get. But it���s our job obviously to choose the journalists who write often and we know will do their best pitching stories. But it���s definitely a balance there.

Lisa Niver: 27:05

I think that is one of the hardest things is that, messiness. And so for myself, I am very cautious about what I agree to take, because I don���t want to be in the position where I can���t deliver, and so one of the things that I have built, we said go travel and it syndicates. I also write for the Jewish Journal –this is my 14th year.

Lisa Niver: 27:29

I can confirm coverage for you know my site, MSN, the Jewish Journal. For Antarctica, I have four episodes that I that I recorded in Antarctica — they���ll be on my podcast. In Ireland we recorded two episodes that are already live on my podcast. So I have the TV segments, plus the podcast, plus the writing, and then for Antarctica, I have a bunch of pitches out. I already confirmed the story for print for Pasadena Magazine, but I have a few other pitches out. For myself, I know you mentioned the videos, so I posted my 51st reel for Antarctica. They are my best performing videos ever. They���re doing great on TikTok.

Amazing interaction on Facebook and really good on YouTube. My YouTube���s over two and a quarter million views now. So there���s a lot happening.

Angela Tuell: 28:36

Your videos –they���re amazing. How do you keep track of it all? You mentioned the podcast that we have to talk about before we go.

Lisa Niver: 28:48

Yes. So I started my podcast: Make your Own Map -when I turned in my book. I wanted to be able to try something different. And Spotify was one of the first, I believe, with a focus on video podcasting. I wrote to a couple of my friends in the media side and I was like I don���t really understand what is this video podcast? How is it different from a movie? It seems like a movie and I���m good at that. I know how to make a video. And my one friend said I don���t see any difference. So I could just put up the video, I could interview someone on zoom and do the video, and that���s a podcast now. And she said I think so.

Lisa Niver: 29:50

That���s basically how it got started, cause I figured, well, if it���s not right, I���ll have to pivot. But I���ve started because it was just a video on Spotify for podcasting. And then YouTube made its own special YouTube for podcasting and because I���d been on YouTube already so long I automatically had the access for the YouTube podcast.

Lisa Niver: 30:45

I���m willing to try almost anything. Someone was asking me last night when we were out to dinner after the book event about TikTok. My agent had this workshop about social media and they gave a challenge to to get on TikTok Every author had an excuse –I���m too old, I���m too ugly, I don���t sound good. Anyway, the challenge was to make five TikTok reels a day for 30 days. Everybody refused to do it. I thought about it and decided to do one day. I said I���ll do one day. That���s how I do everything Small steps. I���ll do one day, I���ll make five.

Lisa Niver: 31:34

I was in Vegas for a scuba convention. I met a couple people during the day that were good at TikTok and they gave me tips after I���d done the workshop. And that night at dinner one of the ladies knew stuff about Instagram bonuses. Everybody helped me and then I had a thousand views the first day. So I said, I���ll do the second day. Anyway, I never gave up. I just kept doing it. Only one day, only one more video. At the end of 30 days I agreed to do another 30 days and at the end of 90 days, that was when I signed the contract with my publisher.

Lisa Niver: 32:09

It���s very hard to keep going sometimes, but I always recommend people start very small and If you can –start for free. People always ask me, should I pay for a logo for my website? Should I buy hosting for my podcast? Should I hire someone? I always recommend start small and for free, just try it. Maybe it���s not for you, maybe you don���t want to post every week, maybe you only want to post once a month, maybe you���re not a podcaster, you���re a TikToker. My website started in 2010. It���s been a long journey for me. I remember when there was no Twitter. And then, all of a sudden, people said–you have to join this thing. It���s called Twitter. Over the years, I���ve added each thing. Remember the cartoon- it says how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Angela Tuell: 33:11

Yes, yes, oh, that���s such great advice. So what is the best way for our listeners to connect with you online? I know there are so many ways.

Lisa Niver: 33:19

You can find me on pretty much any social media platform with my name, Lisa Niver, and I have a website that���s lisanivercom. I have wesaidgotravelcom, and both of those websites have access to my book, my podcast, and I have a class.

Angela Tuell: 33:45

We���ll include all of those links.

Lisa’s podcast: MAKE YOUR OWN MAP

Lisa’s book: Brave-ish

Lisa’s Class: Travel Writer 101

CLICK HERE for comp access to my class

Lisa Niver: 33:47

I���ll give you a code and people can have complimentary access to my class — Travel Writer 101. It���s on a platform called Udemy and people always ask me how could they get started as a travel writer? So I made this class. It���s like an appetizer. It���s just a little taster of the different areas you have to do if you want to be a travel writer, and I link in my course to people that have longer courses about specific things, like Nina from Travel and Leisure has an amazing class, but I don���t necessarily know if you���ve never written for anywhere that you want a huge class like that…my class is just a taster that���s great.

Angela Tuell: 34:34

Thank you so much, lisa. I really appreciate your time.

Lisa: Thank you, angela. This has been so much fun.

Angela: That���s all for this episode of Media in Minutes, a podcast by Communications Redefined. I���m your host, Angela Tuell. Talk to you next time.

The post Communications Redefined: Chasing Adventure: Travel Journalist Lisa Niver���s Global Odyssey appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

TV, Podcasts & Passion Projects: I���m a 5-Time Finalist!

Southern California Journalism Awards 2025: 5 Finalist Nominations. 4 Categories. 1 Storytelling Heart.

I���m honored and thrilled to be named a 5-time finalist in the 67th Southern California Journalism Awards, presented by the Los Angeles Press Club. With more than 2,500 entries submitted���breaking all previous records���this year���s awards spotlight the most impactful storytelling across media.

My work has been recognized in four categories���spanning podcasting, TV, travel, and digital journalism���and reflects my continued passion for sharing powerful, meaningful stories of place, purpose, and people making a difference. From TV segments and podcast episodes to lifestyle features, each piece honors the culture, connections, and experiences that move us.

Lifestyle Feature (Podcast)
���How Alex Jimenez Transformed Her Passion into a Thriving Travel Community���
On Make Your Own Map, Alex opens up about building Travel Fashion Girl and Women���s Travel Fest into vibrant communities for women travelers. Her entrepreneurial journey and empowering message earned recognition in this lifestyle storytelling category.

Lifestyle Feature (Podcast) & Travel Reporting (Podcast)
���Neville McConachie���s Tales of the Giant���s Causeway���
This episode, also from Make Your Own Map, was recorded as part of my Jet Set TV travel special on Ireland���recently honored with a Telly Award. Neville���s storytelling brought the magic and mystery of Northern Ireland���s Giant���s Causeway to life and earned recognition in two categories.

TV/Streaming/Radio Feature
Icon of the Seas ��� The World���s Largest Cruise Ship
Featured on The Jet Set TV, this segment explored Royal Caribbean���s record-breaking ship. It���s a story of innovation, scale, and the joy of cruising���nominated in a category alongside some of the industry���s best travel broadcasters.

Online Journalist of the Year
I’m especially proud to once again be a finalist for Online Journalist of the Year, honoring the full spectrum of my digital reporting, interviews, and multimedia storytelling. This is my 3rd finalist nomination for Online Journalist of the Year!

I’m incredibly grateful to The Jet Set TV team, my podcast guests, and the editors and collaborators who help bring these stories to life. Thank you for traveling this journey with me���can���t wait to see what���s next!

5x Finalist! Travel, TV & Tales That Made the Judges Take Note A6. ONLINE JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR, Independent/Freelance

Lisa Niver, Freelance 

Nico Lang, Queer News Daily

Lyndsey Parker, Freelance

John Regardie, Freelance

Aitana Vargas, Freelance

B4. TRAVEL REPORTING

Lisa Niver, Make Your Own Map, ���Neville McConachie���s Tales of the Giant���s Causeway��� 

Angela Boisvert, Matt Bass, Tamara Gould, Nathan Masters, Kathy Kasaba, PBS SoCal, ���Lost LA: Hiking Trailblazers���

Ruksana Hussain, Fodor’s Travel, ���How to Behave When Visiting Sites of Remembrance���

Michele Stueven, LA Weekly, ���ON THE HORIZON 100 Years of Filmmaking in Utah���

Susan Valot, KCRW, ������Just as special as Disneyland,��� backyard trains draw crowds���

Interview on Spotify

K4. LIFESTYLE FEATURE

Lisa Niver, Make Your Own Map, ���How Alex Jimenez Transformed Her Passion into a Thriving Travel Community���

Lisa Niver, Make Your Own Map, ���Ireland: Neville���s Stories at Giant���s Causeway���

Jonathan Bastian, Andrea Brody, KCRW, ���The Serviceberry���: Robin Wall Kimmerer���s guide to the gift economy���

Caroline Feraday, KCLU Radio, ���A master whiskey distiller from Scotland is putting Oxnard on the map���

Juuso M����tt��nen, Annenbergmedia, ���Eli Everfly helps up-and-coming L.A. wrestlers get ahead���

How Alex Jimenez Transformed Her Passion into a Thriving Travel Community

Interview and Transcript on We Said Go Travel: https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/alex-jimenez/ 

Interview on YouTube : https://youtu.be/MYfJ85W6058 

Interview on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0W9KbQczTmsWAHOeqmEgHq?si=6MLcVTqkQOaqSBTmCyJd4g 

L21. TV/STREAMING/RADIO FEATURE

Lisa Niver, The Jet Set TV, ���Lisa Niver Onboard Icon of the Seas���

Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, ���Hallmark Holiday Stars Won���t Be Ignored by Hollywood Anymore: ���I Treat Each Production Like a Martin Scorsese Film������

Mesfin Fekadu, The Hollywood Reporter, ������Abbott Elementary��� and The Glow Up of Janine Teagues���

James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, ���How ���The Chosen��� Creator Turned the Bible Into Binge TV���

J. Kim Murphy, Variety, ���Welcome to ‘Ren Faire’: Lance Oppenheim’s HBO Docuseries Follows a Festival Trapped in a Real-Life Game of Thrones���

The Jet Set TV: Lisa Niver takes us onboard the ICONIC Icon of the Seas

Jet Set Correspondent Lisa Niver set sail on the World���s Largest Cruise ship to give us a look inside!

Thank you The Jet Set TV, Nikki Noya & Bobby Laurie for allowing me to share about Royal Caribbean International’s brand new ship, ICON OF THE SEAS on your travel TV show.

Thank you to the INCREDIBLE & ICONIC production team — Option A Group, Lisa Williams, Sam Harris, Jason Mangini and Patrick Gruss for this amazing segment.

Thank you to TEAM Ketchum –Aaron Kokoruz Jessica Milton Spencer Bullard Amanda Gadaleta Alonso–for another amazing adventure, especially saving me a spot on Crown’s Edge

Lisa Niver won a 2025 Telly Award for her Travel TV special about Ireland which aired on The Jet Set TV!

Lisa Niver has won many awards including a TELLY! From 2017 to 2025, in the Southern California Journalism Awards and National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, she has won nine times and been a finalist forty times for a variety of broadcast, print, podcast and digital categories.

2025 Winner : Silver Telly Award for Celtic Charm travel special!2025 5x Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for Online Journalist of the Year, TV/Streaming/Radio Feature, Lifestyle Feature (Podcast) & Travel Reporting (Podcast) 2024 Winner : National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards Diversity in the Entertainment Industry 2024 4x Finalist : National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards finalist for Online Journalist of the Year, and for three of my podcast interviews with Beth Santos, Wanderful, Carolyn Ray, JourneyWoman, and Samantha Brown, Places to Love.2024 2x Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for podcast segments with Samantha Brown, Places to Love, and Tony Phelan, A Small Light 2024 6x Finalist : Southern California Journalism Awards for Online Journalist of the Year, Podcast Host and for my podcast interviews with Andrew McCarthy, Samantha Brown, Tony Phelan and Christie Tate2023 Winner: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards Diversity in Entertainment2023 3x Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards2023 2x Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for Travel Reporting and Podcast Interview 2022 Finalist : Southern California Journalism Awards for BOOK CRITICISM2021 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Commentary Diversity/Gender and Commentary Analysis/Trend ��� Film2021 Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for  TECHNOLOGY REPORTING 2021 Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for BOOK CRITICISM2020 Winner: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Book Critic. See all of Lisa���s book reviews here.2020 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Book Critic2020 Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for print magazine article: Hemispheres Magazine for United Airlines2020 Five Time Finalist: Southern California Journalism awards2019 Winner: NAEJ Award for KTLA TV segment2019 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards in three categoriesCategory H2a. Soft News: Ms. Magazine: Polar Bears Can���t Vote So You Have ToCategory F6a. Soft News Feature ��� Under 5 Minutes���Film/TV: KTLA TV Oscars Countdown to Gold with Lisa NiverCategory C1b. Business, Music/Tech/Art: My Wharton Magazine article: Four Female Founders Share Their Origin Stories2019 Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for Broadcast Television Lifestyle Segment: Ogden Ski Getaway2018 Finalist for three categories of Southern California Journalism Awards:SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY REPORTING: Smithsonian TRAVEL REPORTING: Popsugar FitnessPERSONALITY PROFILE: Saturday Evening Post2017 2nd place winner for Southern California Journalism Award Print Column ���A journey to freedom over three Passovers��� and finalist for Travel Reporting.

More about Lisa Niver: https://lisaniver.com/awards/

Have you read my memoir, BRAVE-ish? My book has won 10 awards!

2025 International Impact Book Awards���Travel

2024 Gold Medal – Inspirational ��� North American Book Awards

2024 Gold Bookfest Award ��� Nonfiction Memoir Travel

2024 Gold Nonfiction Book Award ��� Nonfiction Authors Association

2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award ��� Non-fiction

2024 Silver Bookfest Award ��� Nonfiction Self-Help Inspiration

2024 Readers’ Favorite Honorable Mention ��� Non-Fiction – Women���s Genre

2023 Hearten Book Awards First Place Winner ��� Inspiring & Uplifting Non-Fiction

2023 Zibby Awards Runner-up ��� Best Book for The Strong Woman2023 Goody Business Book Awards Winner ��� Memoir/Self-Help

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler Women Who Travel Book Club: 10 New Books We Can’t Wait to Read this Fall

As seen in Forbes Best New NonFiction

The post TV, Podcasts & Passion Projects: I���m a 5-Time Finalist! appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Finding Joy in Travel at Frequent Traveler University

Frequent Traveler University Dallas 2025: Finding Joy in Travel: Beyond Points, Toward Purpose

What does joy in travel really look like?

At Frequent Traveler University Dallas 2025, I had the honor of speaking on a topic that���s deeply personal to me: Finding Joy in Travel. While the weekend was packed with brilliant conversations about points, miles, elite status, and travel hacks, I offered something a little different���a return to why we travel in the first place.

In a room full of travelers chasing efficiency, I invited us all to slow down and remember the feeling of discovery. The courage it takes to step into the unknown. The meaning behind the miles. My talk centered on the belief that travel isn���t just about upgrades and optimized itineraries���it���s about connection, transformation, and joy.

I spoke from experience: I���ve traveled solo and with family, worn a backpack through Asia, and sailed on cruise ships across oceans. What I���ve learned along the way is that bravery isn���t measured in distance���it���s about being open. Open to new cultures, new people, new experiences, and even new versions of ourselves.

This isn���t about checking countries off a list. It���s about saying yes to places that change you. It���s about embracing discomfort, trusting detours, and finding beauty in both the chaos and calm of the journey.

I was deeply honored to be part of the FTU speaker lineup alongside travel legends like Rudy Maxa, Peter Greenberg, Tommy Danielsen, Jamie Larounis, John Ryan, and Tom Stuker���who���s flown over 24 million miles. Sharing my perspective among such seasoned travelers reminded me just how universal the search for meaning is.

WATCH MY TALK HERE which includes my expeditions to Antarctica with Quark Expeditions and walking with polar bears with Churchill Wild:

If you���re organizing a conference or event focused on travel, wellness, storytelling, or personal growth, I���d love to bring this talk to your audience. Finding Joy in Travel is ideal for anyone looking to reconnect with the emotional heartbeat of why we explore���not just where we go, but how we go.

In a world focused on speed and perks, I���m here to remind us that joy is also a worthy destination.

Here���s to miles that move us���and moments that truly change us.

Travel All-Stars at Frequent Traveler University 2025

Loved being in Dallas with all the Travel All-Stars at Frequent Traveler University 2025! What an inspiring weekend with legends like Rudy Maxa, Tommy Danielsen, Peter Greenberg, John Ryan, Jamie Larounis, and the incredible Tom Stuker���who’s flown over 24 million miles!

Truly honored to be invited as a speaker at FTU 2025. Grateful for the opportunity to share stories and connect with such a passionate travel community. Until next time!

Hula-hooping with the world���s most traveled man Tom Stucker with 24 million miles

Frequent Traveler University 2025May 3 @ 3:35 pm ��� 4:15 pm PDTFinding Joy in Travel

Lisa Niver, a world traveler and expert diver, shares her knowledge and expertise with uncovering all of the positives and joy that there is in traveling the world.

Speakers:

Lisa Niver

May 3rd, 2025 3:35pm

Since 2010, more than 20,000 people have attended Frequent Traveler University (FTU), making by far the most popular travel hacking seminar in the world. In addition, the FTU faculty contains some of the brightest minds in the industry.

Come join us at our FTU event on May 2-4, 2025, in sunny Dallas, Texas. You won���t want to miss this event, chock-full of learning and networking opportunities!

You���ll enjoy dozens of sessions for all skill levels hosted by over 35 speakers.

A new feature this year is select sessions and Fireside Chats, where you can hear from industry insiders from airlines, hotel programs, banks and other leaders.

The post Finding Joy in Travel at Frequent Traveler University appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Booking.com: How to Plan a Group Trip

Thank you��Booking.com��for publishing my article, ���How to Plan a Group Trip: Tips from Travel Experts��� One crucial factor to consider when organizing group travel is ensuring that the destination and activities meet everyone���s physical and emotional needs. Here are some tips to help you plan the best group trip:Plan early, define needs, and delegate.Balance activities for all ages and abilities.Choose accommodations that fit the group���s size.Planning a group trip checklist

One crucial factor to consider when organizing group travel is ensuring that the destination and activities meet everyone���s physical and emotional needs.

Define the group���s needsIdentify group size, interests, ages, and budget.Consider specific needs, such as mobility or dietary requirements.Plan the itineraryBalance must-see attractions with downtime and individual exploration.Schedule a variety of activities to cater to different interests.Set clear rolesAssign a trip coordinator and designate additional roles for assistance with planning and communication.Consider assigning ���theme days��� where different members can plan an activity, making each feel engaged.Prepare for physical activity levelsGauge the physical demands of each activity and communicate them to everyone in advance.Ensure everyone understands accessibility requirements, especially for destinations with challenging terrain (e.g., hills, cobblestones).Include flexible timeBuild in downtime to allow for relaxation, shopping, or revisiting favorite spots.Keep the schedule open to changes as needed for an enjoyable, low-stress experience.

From global adventures to traveling with family, friends, or even embarking on a backpacking journey across Asia, every type of group travel dynamic has its unique qualities.

Group travel offers built-in companionship and the joy of shared experiences, whether it���s for a conference, a family vacation, or an adventurous expedition. However, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip requires thoughtful planning and attention to everyone���s needs.

Accessible group travel requires thoughtful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Contact airlines and hotels ahead of time to arrange special accommodations, such as wheelchair access or ground-floor rooms. Plan alternative options for group activities that may not be accessible, helping to create an inclusive experience for all travelers.

Another aspect of trip planning is availability of activities. Discuss in advance what you are organizing, and what options your group members may prefer. For a happy group, allow everyone to participate at their own pace and abilities.

When planning a group trip, it’s essential to think about the interests of everyone in the group.

Setting clear expectations on finances is also very important. If one part of the group expects Michelin star restaurants every night but others want a picnic from the local store to keep the spending low, that can cause conflict.

Sandals Resorts��and��Beaches Resorts��are standout options for all-inclusive vacations, offering everything from dining to activities without additional charges. A unique feature is the full-sized bottles of alcohol in guest rooms, and even scuba diving is included ��� a rarity among resorts. This approach caters perfectly to multi-generational groups or those with diverse interests.

In a Caribbean port, for instance, some travelers might opt for golf, others for a beach day, onboard relaxation, or shopping in town. Having varied options ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Ultimately, creating a well-rounded itinerary with input from group members is key. Including downtime, defining travel goals, providing accessible options, and ensuring activities that cater to different tastes will make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.

How to plan a group trip: booking group flightsExplore booking options:��many airlines offer discounted rates or flexible policies for larger groups, which can be easily accessed through platforms like Booking.com.Book early:��secure better rates and preferred flight times by booking group flights well in advance.Utilize travel advisors:��consider working with a travel advisor specializing in group travel to streamline the booking process and manage changes effectively.Communicate with the group:��ensure all group members are informed about flight details and any changes in plans.

When it comes to booking group flights, starting early and communicating effectively is essential. Booking early will help ensure the best rates and preferred flight times, and she adds that clear communication within the group is key for a smooth airport experience.

Accommodation options for group tripsHotels:��look for��hotels��that offer group rates or multiple room options for larger groups.Vacation rentals:��consider renting homes or��cabins��that accommodate large groups, ensuring enough space for everyone.B&Bs:��opt for smaller, more intimate��bed-and-breakfasts��to enhance the local experience.Check facilities:��ensure the accommodation has adequate bathrooms, communal spaces, and seating arrangements for dining and socializing.Communal spaces:��choose accommodations with common areas where the group can gather for meals and activities.

Finding the right accommodation for your group can make or break the experience. The size of your group, the duration of your trip, and the type of experience you���re seeking will all affect your��accommodation choices.

Staying at��AbbeyGlen Castle��in Ireland is like stepping back in time. Rooms, like the one with a sliding glass door leading to a turret, offer an unforgettable experience steeped in history. For group travel, consider asking each participant about their travel dreams. Do they envision staying at a historic site and trying activities like falconry? Or perhaps they prefer pitching their own tent and catching their own food? Tailoring the trip to align with individual aspirations can elevate the experience for everyone.

For smaller groups, renting a house can provide more bonding time and flexibility.

6 tips for stress-free group travel

Traveling with a group requires flexibility, organization, and communication.

1. Plan early and communicate clearly

Whether it���s flights, accommodations, or activities, booking early ensures you secure availability and better rates. Communicate clearly with the group about plans and responsibilities to avoid confusion.

2. Use group travel planners

Consider using travel planning services or online resources that offer lists of companies specializing in group travel. These can help manage logistics, simplify bookings, and organize the itinerary.

3. Assign roles

Finalize trip details early and assign roles to keep the trip organized. Having a designated trip coordinator and assigning a point person for each sub-group can streamline communication and address any issues quickly during the journey.

4. Pack light and strategically

For a seamless experience,��pack light and strategically. Avoid checked luggage if possible. Speed is key, and the whole group will get in and out of the airport much faster. Pack snacks and have a ‘picnic’ with your team. Make flying your ‘me time’ to relax and catch up on TV shows before the work begins.

5. Embrace flexibility

Build in free time and offer options for group members to break away if needed this provides structured activities but leaves room for spontaneity.

6. Use helpful apps

TripIt is a fantastic app that allows the group to share their travel itineraries, including flights and car rentals. With the app, everyone can stay up-to-date on any changes or adjustments. Many travel advisors use customized apps for managing group travel. These apps help keep everyone on the same page regarding itineraries, meal plans, and transportation.

With all this expert advice and tips, your group trip is bound to be an unforgettable adventure. Careful planning and thoughtful coordination are the keys to creating meaningful travel experiences with your friends, family, or colleagues.

Disclaimer: the views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our company.

See all my articles for BOOKING.com

The post Booking.com: How to Plan a Group Trip appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

May Milestones: Awards, Adventures & Honored Moments

May News 2025��Niver’s Newsletter 185

May brought a wave of honors and meaningful moments I���m incredibly grateful to share. I���m thrilled to announce that my Ireland TV segment, “Celtic Charm,” on The Jet Set TV won a Telly Award (there were 13,000 entries), and I���m a five-time finalist for the upcoming Southern California Journalism Awards, including recognition for both my podcast, my Jet Set TV segment on Icon of the Seas and I am a finalist again for Online Journalist of the Year! Winners will be announced in June.

Print features included not one but two stories in Pasadena Magazine���one on my Antarctica adventure with Quark Expeditions and another on my Churchill Wild walking safari with polar bears. I also had the chance to speak at several events, from Frequent Traveler University in Dallas, where I met the legendary Tom Stuker (24 million miles!), to Brandeis University���s alumni spring luncheon in Marina del Rey and a Hadassah New Orleans Zoom gathering, where I had the honor of sharing the message behind BRAVE-ish.

I���m excited to share that my YouTube channel has now surpassed 2.4 million views. And I continue to be inspired by the people I meet���Hoda Kotb on the red carpet at a QVC and TikTok event said she���s going to read BRAVE-ish, and Tiffany Haddish���s Soul Train Prom benefiting the She Ready Foundation for foster youth was amazing. I also attended a powerful Gala for the Organization for Social Media Safety, supporting crucial work that protects young people online.

This month���s ���Make Your Own Map��� podcast featured Ryan from Quark Expeditions, who was expedition leader on my Antarctica journey, and author Tara Schuster, whose insights on journal writing and self-discovery are soul-shifting.

Feeling honored, humbled, and ready for what���s next.

Telly Award Winner: Celtic Charm Ireland Travel TV Special Pasadena Magazine: TWO PRINT STORIES in the May/June 2025 Travel issue

Thank you Malina Saval and Pasadena Magazine for publishing my Quark Expeditions adventure in Antarctica ��� in print! From stand-up paddleboarding with seals to helicopter landings on the ice, it was a journey of a lifetime. Grateful to share the magic of the White Continent with readers back home.

Frequent Traveler University Dallas 2025: Finding Joy in Travel

Travel All-Stars at FTU 2025 — What an inspiring weekend with legends like Rudy Maxa, Tommy Danielsen, Peter Greenberg, John Ryan, Jamie Larounis, and the incredible Tom Stuker���who’s flown over 24 million miles!

Hula Hooping with Tom Stucker -world’s most traveled man!

BRAVE-ish at Brandeis University Alumni Books and Authors Spring Event 2025 RECENT EVENTS:Tiffany Haddish���s ���Get on the Soul Train��� to Support Youth Impacted by Foster CareMaking Space for Women 50+ to Shine: QVC TikTok Super Brand Day

Thank you QVC TikTok Super Brand Day for all the inspiration!

Hoda Kotb on BRAVERY at QVC TikTok Super Brand Day

Learn more about my events: click here and my articles here

I have events nearly every month–hope to see you at a live event soon–and you can invite me to speak at your conference, library, bookstore, book club live or on ZOOM!

Want to travel more? I have a Travel Writer 101 class on Udemy. CLICK here for a coupon to take my class for FREE!

I have students in 9 countries so far:
Australia, Canada, India, Italy, New Zealand, Philippines, Portugal, Thailand, USA!
Join us on the adventure of travel writing!

THANK YOU for watching my award-winning podcast, Make Your Own Map: Are YOU ready to be BRAVE? It has now been seen and heard in 59 countries on 7 continents.

Have you heard my recent podcast episodes?BRAVE-ish speaker for Brandeis Spring Author EventTara Schuster Isn���t Afraid to Go There���And You���ll Be Glad She DidLeading the Way: An Antarctic Expedition with Ryan McDevitt on Quark Ultramarine

WATCH my podcast, “MAKE YOUR OWN MAP: ” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Podcast,  Google Podcasts, Audacy, Audible, Anchor, Pandora & iHeart Radio

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I now have over 2.4 Million views on YouTube! (now at: 2,400,200).

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 4,600 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe! For more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Find me on social media with over 150,000 followers. Please follow me on social @LisaNiver TikTok, X  Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, BlueSky and at LisaNiver.com.

Do you LOVE my book BRAVE-ish? PLEASE WRITE A REVIEW!! Click here to go directly to rate or review BRAVE-ish on Amazon (now at 61 reviews. Help me get to 75) You can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Simon & Schuster, Post Hill Press, Target, Walmart, BookShop, BAM! and wherever you get your audiobooks!

People always ask me where is it best to buy my book. I recommend you go into or call your favorite local book store and ask them to order it for you and pick it up IN THE STORE! You never know what other treasures you will find. Any bookstore can order my book because my publisher is Post Hill Press and it is distributed by Simon and Schuster. My book is now in the library on Quark Ultramarine and in the store at Dubray bookstore on Grafton in Dublin, Ireland! Brave-ish is available all over the globe!

You can also find me now on SUBSTACK!

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Authority Magazine: How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life

Thank you Authority Magazine for this interview: “How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life, Travel Journalist Lisa Niver“

Embrace Uncertainty. Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you don���t have all the answers. Early in my journey, I remember feeling like I needed to have everything figured out before I took the leap. However, I quickly learned that uncertainty is a natural part of growth. When I embarked on my travel adventures, I often found myself in unfamiliar situations with no clear plan, but those were often the most rewarding experiences. During safari in Africa with Abercrombie and Kent, the itinerary was flexible. You get up early and hope to see the animals. Whether on expedition in the Galapagos or Antarctica, you have to trust the guides and go with the flow.

Many successful people reinvented themselves in a later period in their lives. Jeff Bezos worked on Wall Street before he reinvented himself and started Amazon. Sara Blakely sold office supplies before she started Spanx. Dwayne ���The Rock��� Johnson was a WWE wrestler before he became a successful actor and filmmaker. Arnold Schwarzenegger went from a bodybuilder, to an actor to a Governor. McDonald���s founder Ray Kroc was a milkshake-device salesman before starting the McDonalds franchise in his 50s.

How does one reinvent themselves? What hurdles have to be overcome to take life in a new direction? How do you overcome those challenges? How do you ignore the naysayers? How do you push through the paralyzing fear?

In this series called ���Second Chapters; How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life ��� we are interviewing successful people who reinvented themselves in a second chapter in life, to share their story and help empower others. As a part of this interview series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lisa Niver

Lisa Niver is an award-winning author and travel journalist who has explored over 100 countries across all seven continents. From diving vibrant reefs and famous wrecks to walking along active volcanoes, her adventures span thrilling encounters with nature and diverse cultures. A passionate storyteller and author of  Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty , Lisa inspires audiences with her fearless spirit and global experiences. Whether skydiving, swimming with whales, or hula-hooping with Maasai warriors, she embodies the transformative power of exploration and reinvention.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we start, our readers would love to ���get to know you��� a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?

Thank you for including me in this series! Growing up, I loved getting lost in books, immersing myself in worlds of imagination and adventure. I wasn���t great at sports, and it took years to realize that vision issues were part of the problem. My first big trip changed everything ��� suddenly, the world wasn���t just in books or history lessons; it was alive and vibrant, waiting to be explored. That experience sparked my curiosity and opened my eyes to the endless stories, cultures, and histories out there, inspiring a lifelong passion for discovery.

Can you please give us your favorite ���Life Lesson Quote���? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is, ���Leap, and the net will appear.��� This mantra has guided me through some of the most pivotal moments in my life. While working at Club Med in Eleuthera, Bahamas, I had the chance to try the flying trapeze, an experience that taught me to embrace fear and trust myself. It mirrored the bigger leaps I���ve taken, like leaving medical school at UCSF to find a path that felt more aligned with who I am. Later, I left teaching to pursue my passion for travel and scuba diving, working on cruise ships and discovering a world of underwater wonders. Each leap into the unknown has opened doors to adventures I never could have imagined.

You have been blessed with much success. In your opinion, what are the top three qualities that you possess that have helped you accomplish so much? If you can, please share a story or example for each.

Thank you for your kind words! I believe the top three qualities that have helped me achieve my goals are curiosity, resilience, and a sense of adventure.

Curiosity: I���ve always been driven by a desire to learn and explore. When I left teaching to work on cruise ships, it was my curiosity that pushed me to dive deeper ��� literally and figuratively ��� into the underwater world. Scuba diving became not just a passion but a gateway to understanding marine ecosystems and sharing those stories with others.Resilience: Life���s challenges often require us to adapt and keep moving forward. When I left teaching, it felt like I was abandoning a secure path, but I leaned on my resilience to forge a new one. That decision led me to experiences like backpacking across Southeast Asia, where I again discovered the importance of facing fears and embracing change.A Sense of Adventure: Adventure fuels my life and choices, from traveling to see the Shwedagon Pagoda and the leg-rowers in Myanmar, to swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines. One of my most memorable adventures in the Philippines was dancing and hula-hooping with the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm���s dancing inmates ��� a surreal and joyful experience that exemplifies finding connection in the most unexpected places. Another favorite memory is taking a polar plunge in Antarctica with Quark Expeditions ��� freezing, exhilarating, and a perfect reminder to leap into the unknown with an open heart.

Each quality has guided me through different stages of my life, helping me turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into realities.

Hula Hooping in jail! https://youtu.be/jjVIlO2xugo

Let���s now shift to the main part of our discussion about ���Second Chapters���. Can you tell our readers about your career experience before your Second Chapter?

Before embarking on my ���Second Chapter,��� my life was an adventure in itself. My then-husband and I left everything behind to journey across Asia for over three years, immersing ourselves in the wonders of the world. We hiked to remote temples, explored bustling markets, and swam in turquoise seas. But even as we chased incredible experiences together, cracks began to show, and eventually, our marriage fell apart.

I found myself returning to the U.S. from Thailand alone, heartbroken, and unsure of what came next. Determined not to let that be the end of my story, I decided to reinvent myself. I launched into a project called ���50 Challenges Before 50,��� forcing myself out of my comfort zone and confronting my fears.

And how did you ���reinvent yourself��� in your Second Chapter?

In my Second Chapter, reinventing myself meant stepping into new adventures and challenging my limits in ways I never expected. After returning from Asia, navigating heartbreak, and rediscovering my purpose, I embarked on experiences like skydiving in California and mountain biking through the rugged trails of Northstar Resort in Lake Tahoe. Each challenge pushed me beyond my comfort zone, teaching me the power of resilience and self-discovery.

These moments helped me reshape my identity and embrace growth in every sense ��� physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I realized that true transformation happens when we take risks and explore the unknown. Through each adventure, I not only developed new skills but also gained a deeper understanding of myself and what it means to live fully.

This journey ultimately became the foundation of my memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty, capturing the essence of personal reinvention and the strength to keep evolving. There were so many times when I was doing the 50 challenges and when I was writing my book, that I nearly gave up and gave in. I did not think I could keep going. But somehow, with rest and encouragement from friends and family, I did. My Second Chapter is a celebration of embracing change and discovering the limitless possibilities that come with stepping into the unknown.

Sky Diving: https://youtu.be/bMz9PvKVxvc

From Terrified to Blessed: Skydiving for my Birthday: https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/terrified-blessed-skydiving-birthday/

Can you tell us about the specific trigger that made you decide that you were going to ���take the plunge��� and make your huge transition?

The specific trigger that made me decide to take the plunge and make my huge transition was the moment I returned to the U.S. from Thailand alone. After years of traveling with my former husband, facing the reality of divorce and rebuilding my life on my own was overwhelming and terrifying. The pain of heartbreak combined with the uncertainty of what came next sparked a deep desire for change ��� a need to reclaim my independence and rediscover who I truly was.

It was in that moment of vulnerability and uncertainty that I realized I couldn���t go back to the life I had before. I needed to take risks, challenge myself, and explore a new path. The decision to reinvent myself wasn���t about escaping my past; it was about embracing the opportunity to grow, heal, and thrive in a way that aligned with my authentic self. This became the driving force behind my journey into my Second Chapter.

What did you do to discover that you had a new skillset inside of you that you haven���t been maximizing? How did you find that and how did you ultimately overcome the barriers to help manifest those powers?

To uncover a new skillset within myself, I immersed myself in experiences that pushed my boundaries and deepened my storytelling for Brave-ish. After years of personal exploration, I discovered hidden strengths ��� resilience, adaptability, and the ability to connect deeply with diverse communities ��� were essential in sharing my journey.

From swimming with stingless jellyfish in Palau to scuba diving with bull sharks in Mexico, each adventure became a crucial part of my narrative. Teaching Maasai warriors to hula hoop in Kenya and walking with polar bears and wolves in Canada with Churchill Wild were transformative moments that highlighted my capacity for embracing the extraordinary. Sometimes you do not know what can happen unless you take the first step. I faced fears head-on and channeling those moments into powerful reflections within my writing.

These adventures allowed me to craft an award-winning (ten awards so far!) story that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. Each experience added depth to my journey, illustrating the beauty of stepping into the unknown and harnessing those moments to inspire growth and connection.

Churchill Wild: https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/polar-bear-safari-churchill-wild-2024/

How are things going with this new initiative? We would love to hear some specific examples or stories.

My memoir, Brave-ish, has truly been a transformative journey. Writing it would have been invaluable, even if it had never been published. The process helped me explore my own growth, face fears, and embrace vulnerability in ways I never imagined. Receiving awards has been a beautiful validation of that work, but the real reward has been connecting with readers, listeners, and individuals across the world through events, podcasts, and television appearances.

These experiences have allowed me to meet so many inspiring people, each with their own unique stories of resilience and transformation. Whether sharing my journey on stage at international events or engaging in heartfelt conversations on podcasts and TV, I���ve realized the power of storytelling to unite and inspire. The community I���ve built continues to grow, bringing people together from all walks of life, each seeking to navigate their own paths of discovery and courage.

Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?

I���m incredibly grateful for The Jet Set TV���s support throughout my journey. Their encouragement has allowed me to share my travels with a broader audience, culminating in my own recent travel TV special on Ireland. One of the most memorable experiences from the special was taking an Irish dancing lesson from two world champions. Dancing alongside Trad on the Prom, Ireland���s number one Irish Music, Song and Dance company, was a truly magical experience. The energy and passion they bring to the stage are unmatched. Learning traditional steps from such international world champions was a moment where travel, culture, and community came together in the most beautiful way.

During the special, I made chocolate with a nun at Kylemore Abbey, went on a hawk walk at Dromoland Castle, and interviewed with the founder of Wild Ireland, where I learned about the lynx, foxes, and bears that Killian McLaughlin is bringing back to their native habitats.

Not only did I have the privilege of learning about traditional Irish music from world champions at Trad on the Prom, but I also had a lesson on the bodhr��n from Malachy Kearns, a renowned craftsman of these traditional instruments. I cannot wait to share more segments on The Jet Set TV!

Ireland TV Special:��https://youtu.be/h1rIvYuti6U THIS SEGMENT is an AWARD WINNER! It won a 2025 Silver Telly Award!

The Jet Set TV segments: https://lisaniver.com/the-jet-set-tv-segments/

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started in this new direction?

Traveling to Antarctica with Quark Expeditions was a truly unforgettable experience, my 7th continent visited. One of the most memorable moments was stand up paddleboarding through the icy waters, I had an unintentional polar plunge that day but found out that my dry suit worked! Later the same day, I jumped in only in my bathing suit for a proper polar plunge and it was much colder! I loved it.

I hula-hooped on the fast ice south of the Antarctic circle. I always wanted to travel to my final continent but never imagined that I would Standup Paddleboard and Polar Plunge, Hula-hoop and see the ice from the sky in a helicopter all south of the Antarctic Circle.

The expedition was made even more special by the presence of female guides, all of whom shared their deep knowledge and passion for conservation. Their stories and expertise enhanced the journey, making it a profound exploration of both nature and human resilience in such a remote, untouched environment.

During the journey, we encountered vast colonies of Gentoo, Ad��lie and Chinstrap penguins and their chicks, as well as four different types of seals and four different types of whales. We saw so much every single day. Our zodiac cruises and landings through ice-filled bays provided a sense of tranquility and adventure, connecting us deeper to the raw, untouched beauty of the continent. I had always hoped to make it to Antarctica, but this expedition was beyond my wildest dreams. I was also so very honored to place a signed copy of BRAVE-ish in the onboard library and then to see someone reading it in the Ambassador���s Lounge!

Antarctica videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLv_jKkCiDQcTw0oS3dPpw_iX5PTVnpOG0
Spectrum TV News segment talking about Antarctica: https://youtu.be/tuaapnQ_UYM

Did you ever struggle with believing in yourself? If so, how did you overcome that limiting belief about yourself? Can you share a story or example?

Yes, there have been moments when I struggled with believing in myself. Writing my memoir, Brave-ish, was a deeply personal and vulnerable experience. Doubts would creep in ��� wondering if my stories were meaningful enough or if I had the strength to share such personal truths. There were many tears, countless therapy sessions, and moments of overwhelming self-doubt that made the process feel like a daunting climb.

However, I was fortunate to have a supportive network ��� friends, family, and an incredible developmental editor who believed in my journey. Their unwavering encouragement, coupled with insightful feedback, pushed me through the tough moments. With each revision, I began to find my voice and trust in the narrative I was creating.

A pivotal moment came when I found an agent who not only saw the potential in my manuscript but deeply understood my story. Chip MacGregor���s passion for the project was evident and Debra Englander at Post Hill Press believed in the themes of vulnerability, transformation, and resilience in my memoir. Their support and confidence in the project affirmed my decision to share my journey with the world.

Through this experience, I realized that self-belief grows when supported by those who understand and champion your vision.

Brave-ish on Post Hill Press: https://posthillpress.com/book/brave-ish-one-breakup-six-continents-and-feeling-fearless-after-fifty

In my own work I usually encourage my clients to ask for support before they embark on something new. How did you create your support system before you moved to your new chapter?

Building a support system before stepping into my new chapter was essential. I realized early on that going it alone was not sustainable, especially during such a transformative process. Here���s how I cultivated that support:

I leaned on my close friends and family who knew me best. Their unwavering belief in my potential and encouragement helped me navigate the ups and downs of writing a memoir. These relationships provided a safe space to express doubts and fears without judgment, offering insights and reassurance along the way.

I worked with a developmental editor who brought expertise and objectivity to my work. She helped shape my narrative, giving me the tools to refine my voice and craft a story that resonated deeply with readers.

I joined communities that valued storytelling and personal growth. Engaging with writers��� groups like David Hochman���s UPOD Academy, attending workshops with writers like Alka Joshi, and joining in zooms with other writers allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who were going through similar journeys. These connections provided a wealth of shared experiences, advice, and support that felt invaluable in moments of self-doubt.

Creating this network took time and intention, but it proved to be a cornerstone of my success. It reinforced the idea that no journey is truly solitary, and having a circle of supporters empowers you to take bold steps forward.

Starting a new chapter usually means getting out of your comfort zone, how did you do that? Can you share a story or example of that?

I started my career in the classroom and my science students helped me get started on YouTube and iMovie. You can now find my class, Travel Writer 101, on Udemy.

In my book, Brave-ish, I share how small steps lead to big changes, and this philosophy is central to my teaching. My course is designed to help students navigate the steps and share their travel experiences. Connecting with readers and now students again is one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

Travel Writer 101: https://www.udemy.com/course/travelwriter101/?referralCode=6F108929DCB31E524D87

What are your ���5 things I wish someone told me before I started��� and why?

Here are 5 things I wish someone told me before I started:

Embrace Uncertainty
Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you don���t have all the answers. Early in my journey, I remember feeling like I needed to have everything figured out before I took the leap. However, I quickly learned that uncertainty is a natural part of growth. When I embarked on my travel adventures, I often found myself in unfamiliar situations with no clear plan, but those were often the most rewarding experiences. During safari in Africa with Abercrombie and Kent, the itinerary was flexible. You get up early and hope to see the animals. Whether on expedition in the Galapagos or Antarctica, you have to trust the guides and go with the flow.Focus on Connection Over Perfection
I used to spend a lot of time perfecting my work before sharing it with others. What I���ve learned is that connection often outweighs perfection. While quality is important, sharing honestly often resonates more. This realization hit home when I first started a newsletter in 2008 from my backpacking trip to share with my former science students. It wasn���t perfectly polished, but the response from families was overwhelming because of the personal story it told.Celebrate Small Wins
Early in my career, I always celebrated every small win. When I started on YouTube after a trip to Taiwan in 2010, I was thrilled with every milestone ��� whether it was 100 views, 1,000 views, or eventually, reaching 1 million views. Each step, no matter how small, felt like a victory. Now, with over 2.25 million views, I���ve come to realize that every small accomplishment builds momentum and contributes to the bigger journey. Each milestone has taught me the importance of recognizing progress, no matter how incremental, and the power of celebrating those achievements along the way.Ask for Help
I was hesitant to ask for help, believing I needed to do everything alone. Over time, I realized that asking for support and collaborating with others leads to more growth and richer experiences. When I worked on my memoir, Brave-ish, I sought out the guidance of a developmental editor who helped shape my narrative. Her feedback and insights were invaluable, making my memoir better and more focused.Trust Your Instincts
There were moments when I second-guessed my decisions, worrying if they were the right path. What I���ve learned is to trust my instincts more. For instance, deciding to focus on my memoir despite initial doubts proved to be the right decision. Over time, as it gained recognition and earned TEN AWARDS, I realized that following my passion was the best choice, even when the road seemed uncertain.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?

If I could inspire a movement, it would be centered around the idea that being kind is more important than being smart. I always tell my students that knowledge is valuable, but kindness is what truly changes the world. Small acts of kindness create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see.

Right now, my heart is especially focused on the hostages still being held for nearly 500 days ��� bringing them home is a cause that transcends politics and borders. Every Shabbat since Oct 7, 2023, I have posted about this on social media. I believe that advocating for their safe return is not just a matter of justice, but of humanity.

We are very blessed that some very prominent names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them.

Reese Witherspoon. Without a doubt. She has been a game-changer in bringing women���s stories to the screen, turning powerful books into must-watch movies and TV series. My book Brave-ish is all about stepping out of your comfort zone, taking risks, and redefining courage ��� messages that resonate deeply with her work.

After creating my Ireland TV special, I realized how much I love sharing stories in a longer format. A show based on Brave-ish would inspire others to embrace adventure, push past fear, and say yes to the unknown. Reese, if you���re reading this ��� let���s make it happen!

How can our readers further follow your work online?

Thank you so much for this opportunity!
FIND MORE ABOUT ME HERE:

My book: Brave-ish

Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty

My travel site: We Said Go Travel

https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/category/we-said

My podcast: MAKE YOUR OWN MAP

Make Your Own Map

My videos on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@LisaNiver

On Social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaniver

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisaniver

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisaniver

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.niver

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/wesaidgotravel/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaellenniver/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lisaniver.bsky.social

Threads https://www.threads.net/@lisaniver

Substack https://lisaniver.substack.com/

MSN https://www.msn.com/en-us/channel/source/Lisa%20Niver/sr-cid-f791cc4863cb2175

Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!

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BRAVE-ish at Brandeis University Alumni Books and Authors Spring Event 2025

Thank you Brandeis University Alumni in Los Angeles for including me in your Spring Author Event!

Under blue skies and with sweeping views of the harbor at Whiskey Red���s in Marina del Rey, the Brandeis Alumni Spring Author Luncheon offered a memorable afternoon of conversation, community, and compelling storytelling. This spring gathering featured three celebrated authors: Antoine Wilson, Laurie Stevens, and Lisa Niver, each of whom shared their unique journeys as writers and creators.

The program was introduced and moderated by Mitchell Schwartz, a Brandeis alumnus and longtime political strategist, who warmly welcomed guests and guided the audience through each author���s segment.

Antoine Wilson, author of the bestselling novel Mouth to Mouth, spoke about the origin and evolution of his gripping literary thriller, which begins with a chance encounter in an airport lounge and unfolds into a suspenseful, philosophical exploration of truth, perception, and identity. Wilson, whose work has appeared in The Paris Review and Best American Short Stories, captivated the room with insights into his writing process and reflections on the novel���s unexpected success.

Laurie Stevens, creator of the award-winning Gabriel McRay psychological suspense series, offered a behind-the-scenes look into her intricate character development and the psychological research that grounds her work. Her thrillers���set in and around Los Angeles���blend crime, trauma, and forensic science in a narrative style that keeps readers turning the pages. Stevens spoke about the real-life cases that have inspired her fiction and her commitment to portraying mental health issues with authenticity.

Lisa Niver, an award-winning travel journalist and memoirist, shared stories from her book BRAVE-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty. With humor and honesty, Niver recounted her transformative solo journeys around the world and the courage it took to start over after heartbreak. ���I was born in Boston while my dad was in periodontal school at BU,��� she said. ���So being invited to speak at a Brandeis event in Los Angeles���where one of the board members is actually a patient of my dad and learned about my book through him���felt incredibly special. I was so grateful to be welcomed into this inspiring and thoughtful community.���

VIDEO of Lisa’s talk:

After the talks, guests mingled and enjoyed the chance to meet the authors one-on-one during the book signing. ���It was such a joy to meet everyone,��� said Niver. ���And a true honor to be invited.���

With its beautiful waterfront setting, enthusiastic attendees, and thoughtful discussion, the event was a vibrant celebration of storytelling, connection, and the literary spirit of the Brandeis community.

April 24, 2025 11am -2pm
Whiskey Reds, 13813 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 with authors: Antoine Wilson, Laurie Stevens and Lisa Niver. Moderator: Mitchell Schwartz

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Telly Award Winner: Celtic Charm Ireland Travel TV Special

Telly Award Silver Winner 2025: Ireland Travel Special by The Jet Set TV correspondent, Lisa Niver

We are proud to announce that The Jet Set TV���s “Celtic Charm” Travel Special, by Lisa Niver, has been awarded a Silver Telly Award in the Travel & Tourism category!

This honor places us alongside industry greats like Samantha Brown���s Places to Love and The Good Road. It���s a true testament to the power of storytelling and the passion behind every journey.

���This is an incredible achievement! We received over 13,000 exceptional entries this year, and the winners represent the most innovative stories being told across all screens. As a Telly Winner, you are truly a standard bearer of excellence in our industry.��� ��� The Telly Awards

In this award-winning segment, Lisa Niver takes viewers on a heartfelt journey through Ireland ��� from its historic cities and vibrant culture to its breathtaking natural beauty. Her curiosity, warmth, and adventurous spirit helped bring Ireland���s magic to life.

A huge thank you to everyone at The Jet Set TV, especially Bobby Laurie, Nikki Noya, April Carter, Brad Smith and Juan Carlos Albarran Marquez, our incredible partners in Ireland and thank you to the Telly Awards for recognizing our work. We���re honored and inspired ��� here���s to more stories that connect us all!

Learn more about the segment and where we traveled: Ireland���s Celtic Charm on The Jet Set TV

Click here to see all of my segments on The Jet Set TV.

From the surreal landscapes of the Burren to the awe-inspiring Giant���s Causeway, Ireland���s natural wonders leave a lasting impression. I loved making perfume with Sadie at Burren Perfumery and creating chocolates with Sister Genevieve at Kylemore Abbey. I had an unforgettable dance lesson with Trad on the Prom and hula hooped in the turret of the historic Abbeyglen Castle Hotel.

Ireland���s charm lies in its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and genuine hospitality, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and culture. Whether exploring the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, experiencing traditional Irish dance with Trad on the Prom, or marveling at the artistry of Malachy Kearns��� handcrafted bodhr��ns, Ireland offers a tapestry of memorable moments. Every experience feels like a story waiting to be told, and every traveler leaves with their own version of the magic that makes Ireland so special.

Enjoy more of my travels in Ireland

Pasadena Magazine in print: Stay in a Irish Castle 2025Ireland���s Celtic Charm on The Jet Set TV 2024Adventures in Ireland: Part Two ��� Immersed in History and Culture 2024Travel Classics Ireland 2023 Conference at Ashford Castle and on MSNUnforgettable Ashford Castle for the Travel Classics Ireland Conference 2023 and on MSNWild Atlantic Way Adventures: Ireland���s Coast Gem and on MSNEnchanting Escapes in Northern Ireland���s Beauty! and on MSNInterview with Nina Ruggiero, Travel and Leisure Digital Editoral Director and on MSNInterview with Ambassador Bryne Nason and on MSNTravel Classics Ireland 2017Dublin Adventures 2015VIDEOS: from 2023 Conference and tour, from 2017 Travel Classics Conference and and my St. Patrick���s Day adventures in Dublin 2015

Read more of my Adventures in Ireland in my book, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty!

The Telly Awards honors excellence in video and television across all screens and is judged by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks, production companies. This year���s winners include Pixar Animation Studios, Hearst Media, ESPN, LinkedIn, NATO, MTV Entertainment Studios, NASA, the LA Clippers (NBA), Sawhorse Productions, Telemundo and more.

���Our industry is experimenting with new technologies like never before, shaping truly compelling stories to draw attention to some of the world���s most pressing issues,��� shares Telly Awards Managing Director Amanda Needham. ���The Telly Awards is uniquely positioned to meet the industry where it���s actually making work, be that on television or TikTok.���

Committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity forward, this year���s new categories included topics within Film & Shorts, Outdoor & Adventure, and Brand Partnerships. These categories centered on stories and collaborations that are actively evolving within the video and television industry.

With over 13,000 entries from across the globe and top video and television content producers. Winner���s were chosen by The Telly Awards Judging Council which includes Ben Wackett, Marketing Director, ENSO Sports & Entertainment Agency, Brian Toombs, Head of Roku Brand Studio, Roku Brand Studio, Lucy Shen, Creator Marketing Manager, Patreon, Irantzu Diez-Gamboa, CEO North America, MediaPro, Rosalind Pressman, VP Brand Marketing, Pluto TV, Adam Faze, Executive Producer, Gymnasium, James Young, EVP, Head of Creative Innovation, BBDO New York, Sarah Minnie, Head of Artist Development and Production, Open Television, Nicole Lederman, Executive Producer, The Martin Agency, and Gregg Stouffer, Lead Editor, Pickleball TV.

The full list of the 46th Annual Telly Awards winners can be found at
www.tellyawards.com/winners/

Silver Winners: Television: Travel & Tourismwinner / clienttitlecategory 1157 Productions Joseph Rosendo’s Steppin’ Out; BoliviaGeneral-Travel & Tourism 1157 Productions Joseph Rosendo’s Steppin’ Out; A Topanga ThanksgivingGeneral-Travel & Tourism 1157 Productions Joseph Rosendo’s Steppin’ Out; Costa RicaGeneral-Travel & Tourism Allen Media Group Lifestyle Networks MyDESTINATION.TV “Zahirah’s Bucket List Adventures: Bali, Indonesia”General-Travel & Tourism Jetsetter Films Day Tripping in The Palm Beaches EP 1General-Travel & Tourism Jetsetter Films Fest Quest of The Palm BEachesGeneral-Travel & Tourism KIRO 7 Discover NorthwestGeneral-Travel & Tourism NBC 6 ‘South Florida Live’ Fun in the Sun: Exploring the Upper KeysGeneral-Travel & Tourism Samantha Brown Media Samantha Brown’s Places to Love – Darwin, AustraliaGeneral-Travel & Tourism Shanghai Media Group China’s Culture JourneyGeneral-Travel & Tourism Sky News Arabia FZ LLC Baalbek… Majestic Ruins That Amaze Visitors and ResearchersGeneral-Travel & Tourism THE GOOD ROAD THE GOOD ROADGeneral-Travel & Tourism WAVY TV Destination France 2024General-Travel & TourismLisa Niver We Said Go Travel Celtic Charm: Fill Your Heart With Ireland on The Jet Set TVGeneral-Travel & Tourism WTIU Journey Indiana – Episode 626General-Travel & TourismBronze Winnerswinner / clienttitlecategory A Taste of History, Inc. A Taste of History – Nourished by Nature | St. John���s, NewfoundlandGeneral-Travel & Tourism Mayfair Films Putting On The RitzGeneral-Travel & Tourism Mayfair Films Gulf to GulfGeneral-Travel & Tourism Motor Queen Productions Road Trip Masters Huntingdon PAGeneral-Travel & Tourism

The Telly Awards is the premier award honoring video and television across all screens. Established in 1979, The Telly Awards receives over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Entrants are judged by The Telly Awards Judging Council���an industry body of over 200 leading experts including advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks, reflective of the multi-screen industry The Telly Awards celebrates. Partners of The Telly Awards include NAB, RunwayML AIFF, ReelAbilities Film Festival, Film Fatales, FWD-Doc, Stash, Production Hub, Ghetto Film School, Future of Film, We Are Parable, Video Consortium, SeriesFest and Green The Bid.

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Savoring the French Countryside: A Journey Through Wine Country

France’s countryside offers more than just picturesque landscapes; it tells a story written in vines, limestone, lavender, and the quiet rhythm of rural life. For those who seek not only to travel but to truly experience a place, France’s wine regions offer a journey that engages all five senses. From the elegance of Bordeaux to the rustic charm of the Rh��ne Valley, touring France’s wine country reveals a side of the country that���s as soulful as it is scenic.

Why Wine Country?

While Paris captivates with its museums and monuments, the countryside is where you discover the heart of French life. Here, days begin with the clink of a coffee cup in a village square and end with a slow meal paired with the local vintage. Wine isn���t just a product���it���s a cultural ritual, an agricultural marvel, and often a family legacy passed down through generations.

Traveling through these regions invites you to participate in a rhythm that values seasonality, craftsmanship, and pleasure. It���s an antidote to the rush of modern travel. Instead of ticking off landmarks, you���re sipping wine with a fourth-generation winemaker, exploring 12th-century cellars, or wandering through markets filled with goat cheese, figs, and sunflowers.

Photo from Into the VineyardBurgundy: Legacy in a Glass

The vineyards of Burgundy stretch like green corduroy across the hills, each row carefully tended and each parcel���”climat”���mapped with reverence. This is the birthplace of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but what makes Burgundy special isn���t just the grapes; it���s the obsession with terroir.

Villages like Gevrey-Chambertin, Nuits-Saint-Georges, and Meursault whisper history from every stone and barrel. Spend your days biking through vineyard trails, stopping for wine tastings at both famous estates and humble, family-run domaines. There���s no need to rush; the wines and the stories unfold best at their own pace.

Bordeaux: Grandeur and Garonne

Bordeaux���s reputation precedes it, and rightly so. With more than 6,000 wine-producing ch��teaux, it���s a haven for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot lovers. But Bordeaux is more than its Left and Right Bank rivalry���it���s a region in transformation.

The city of Bordeaux is now a destination in itself, with a rejuvenated riverfront, contemporary art galleries, and La Cit�� du Vin���a museum and cultural center dedicated to wine. Beyond the city, take a boat ride along the Garonne, explore the rolling M��doc, and experience the contrast between opulent estates and intimate, biodynamic producers.

Provence & the Rh��ne Valley: The Taste of Sunlight

If ever a place could bottle sunshine, it would be Provence. Lavender fields, olive groves, and pale ros��s define this region, which feels suspended in time. Here, wine tasting often happens under a pergola, with cicadas singing and the scent of herbs in the air.

The southern Rh��ne, meanwhile, offers power and depth. Ch��teauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous name, but nearby villages like Gigondas and Vacqueyras offer equally stunning wines in a more laid-back setting. Whether you���re sampling Grenache blends or hiking through vineyards flanked by medieval castles, this region is all about connection���to nature, to tradition, and to each other.

Champagne, Loire & Alsace: A Taste for Every Palate

France���s wine country is delightfully diverse. Head north to Champagne for bubbly and cellar tours that descend into chalky cathedrals beneath the earth. To the west, the Loire Valley offers fairytale ch��teaux and crisp white wines that pair beautifully with local seafood.

In the east, Alsace charms with its blend of French and German culture, half-timbered villages, and aromatic whites like Riesling and Gew��rztraminer. Each of these regions brings its own accent to the language of wine.

Custom Travel: How to Make It Truly Yours

While guidebooks can offer suggestions, the best experiences in French wine country are often those tailored specifically to you. For travelers who want more than just a tasting menu of attractions, working with a travel specialist who creates��customized wine itineraries through France���s most storied regions can elevate the entire journey. From private tastings to boutique accommodations tucked among the vines, these curated trips ensure your time is spent savoring, not planning. If you���re considering this kind of immersive experience, a��service that creates custom wine itineraries through France offers an excellent place to start.

Slow Down. Sip Deeply. Travel Well.

In a world of fast-paced travel, France���s wine country invites you to do the opposite. To linger. To taste. To listen. The experience is about more than just the wine���it���s about who you meet, what you learn, and the moments of stillness that stay with you long after you���ve returned home.

So if you’re planning your next adventure and yearning for something more meaningful, consider a journey through the vineyards of France. Let the countryside speak for itself���and let your story unfold one glass at a time.

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