In this powerful conversation, Amy Hager sits down with journalist and academic Michael Luongo to explore how tourism can become a tool for recovery, peace, and rebuilding after war and conflict. From Ground Zero to Gaza, Iraq, Rwanda, and Ukraine, Michael shares firsthand stories of resilience, research, and the human capacity to heal through travel.

If you care about ethical travel, social justice, and the transformative power of tourism, this episode will challenge and inspire you. It’s a deep dive into how the travel industry can help rebuild—not exploit—communities emerging from conflict.

https://institutetourism.com/recovering-tourism-after-war/

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this episode of The RISE Traveler, we sit down with Montreal-based entrepreneur Laëtitia Damonsing to explore how her global experiences shaped her identity, worldview, and business. From volunteering in Brazilian communities during the World Cup to working in international diplomacy in Paris and Australia, Laëtitia shares how travel transformed her perspective on privilege, resilience, and representation as a woman of color.

Her journey led her to launch DoDo Bazaar, a circular fashion brand redefining waste and sustainability. We also dive into her reflections on immigration, diversity in study abroad, and the urgent need for human-centered policies in today’s divided world.

This is a conversation about courage, creativity, and carving new paths—proof that travel can spark both personal transformation and social change.

https://www.instagram.com/dodobazaar/?hl=en

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this episode of RISE Traveler, host Amy Hager sits down with Janna “Jaz” Zinzi founder of WanderWomxn Travels, to explore how travel can go beyond sightseeing to support local communities, small businesses, and marginalized groups. Jaz shares her journey from New York to New Orleans, her passion for community-based tourism, and how today’s U.S. policies—from immigration to DEI rollbacks—are reshaping how people experience travel. Together, they discuss the power of local action, cultural preservation, and face-to-face connection in building a more inclusive and resilient travel industry.

https://wanderwomxntravels.com/

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this powerful Season 6 premiere, host Amy Hager sits down with Roni Weiss, Executive Director of Travel Unity, to explore the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and global travel. From his personal journey as a neurodivergent traveler to addressing how political climates impact tourism, Roni brings insight, honesty, and heart to the conversation.

Highlights from this great conversation:

• How Roni’s early experiences with ADD shaped his career and travel mindset
  
  
• The founding of Travel Unity and the need for systemic change in the travel industry
  
  
• Why privilege and identity matter when discussing travel access and safety
  
  
• The real-world effects of U.S. political policies on international tourism
  
  
• How DEI language is being quietly erased from some organizations
  
  
• Why knowing your organization’s “why” is essential in times of uncertainty
  
  
• What grassroots advocacy can look like in the tourism space
  
  
• Tips for travel professionals and students to promote inclusive travel experiences

Travel Unity Website: https://travelunity.org/

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this special 5th anniversary episode of the RISE Traveler Podcast, we reflect on five powerful years of growth, learning, and impact at RISE Travel Institute. Host Amy Hager is joined by founder Vincie Ho and Board Vice President Amanda Kendle to explore the origin story of RISE, the evolution of its mission, and how a grassroots idea blossomed into a global movement for ethical and justice-focused travel.

We discuss:

• How a graduate school capstone became a nonprofit with international reach
• What responsible, impactful, sustainable, and ethical travel really looks like
• The shift from focusing on traveler experiences to prioritizing host communities
• The power of diverse, passionate volunteers in shaping RISE’s voice and impact
• Highlights from our programs, experiential journeys, and educational resources
• How universities and tourism professionals are using RISE’s free tools, including the popular Decolonial Guide to Travel

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this inspiring episode of the RISE Podcast, host Amy Hager sits down with longtime RISE volunteer and educator Natalie Amezcua to explore the deep questions that travel can spark. From her beginnings with RISE during the pandemic to her work as a systems thinker and educator, Natalie shares how travel, when done mindfully, can help bridge cultural gaps, promote sustainability, and reconnect us to our shared humanity.

Whether you're a curious globetrotter or an industry professional, this episode offers heartfelt insights and practical frameworks to help you travel with intention.

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this episode, host Amy chats with Cathy Ji, a longtime RISE volunteer and Senior Manager of Finance and Fundraising. Cathy shares her journey into sustainable travel—from a spontaneous campervan trip during the pandemic to a life-changing solo adventure in Vietnam. She opens up about the ethical wake-up call that led her to veganism, reflects on the hidden impacts of Airbnb, and champions the value of slow, intentional travel. Tune in for thoughtful stories, practical tips, and a reminder that every step we take as travelers matters.

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this episode, Amy sits down with Jodi Suckle, Experiential Travel Manager at RISE Travel Institute, live from Guatemala. They explore what it means to plan ethical, intentional journeys that benefit both travelers and host communities. Jodi shares her path into sustainable travel, the power of homestays, and how conscious travel can shape future global citizens—especially students. If you're curious about how to travel with purpose, this episode is for you.

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute