In this powerful episode of the Travel Chicks Podcast, host Melissa Mackey sits down with award-winning filmmaker, author, and adventurer Dianne Whan, the visionary behind the documentary 500 Days in the Wild. What started as a 500-day solo trek across Canada turned into a transformative 6-year odyssey of over 1,800 days—by foot, canoe, and snowshoe—on the world’s longest trail.

Dianne shares what inspired her to burn the schedule and embrace surrender, how Indigenous wisdom shaped her journey, and why connection—to nature, to others, and to self—is the ultimate medicine for healing and hope. From near-hypothermic storms to heartfelt teachings from First Nations elders, this conversation is raw, rich, and deeply relevant for anyone navigating grief, reinvention, or a yearning to reconnect with what really matters.

You’ll hear about:

• The real reason Dianne left everything behind after a divorce and the death of her dog

• How the kindness of strangers and Indigenous teachings shaped her path

• Her lessons on fear, trust, and feminine resilience in the wild

• Why 500 Days in the Wild is more than a film—it’s a movement for reconnection

• What “travel with” vs “travel on” the land truly means

📺 500 Days in the Wild is now streaming in Canada on Paramount Plus and other platforms. International viewers can visit https://500daysinthewild.com/ https://www.diannewhelan.com/

What if stepping outside your comfort zone could completely change your life? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Kellie Paxian, a world traveler, safari specialist, and adventure creator who went from a PR office job in Vancouver to building a dream life in Cape Town, South Africa.

Kellie shares how travel has the power to transform you from the inside out, why solo trips can be life-changing (and confidence-boosting!), and her best tips for female travelers seeking safe, empowering adventures, especially safaris.

We dive into: ✅ Why travel is the ultimate “therapy” for heartbreak, loss, or major life transitions ✅ Overcoming fear and finding courage as a solo female traveler ✅ Kelly’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters (including the viral moose moment!) ✅ Bucket list African safaris—where to go, what to see, and how long to stay ✅ Why Cape Town is one of the most breathtaking cities in the world

Whether you’re dreaming of a Rocky Mountain road trip, an African safari, or your first solo adventure, this episode will leave you inspired to pack your bags and embrace the unknown.

✨ Watch Kellie’s viral moose video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLNmqiEp-NK/ ✨ Follow Kelly on Instagram: @kelliepaxian ✨ Learn more about safaris & group trips: adventureless.travel

🎧 Tune in now for your weekly dose of travel inspiration!

As always, if you have a burning desire to head out on an adventure be sure to reach out or visit our website: www.Travelchicks.ca

What is the top travel app of the 21st century hitting North America by storm?

Tune in to listen to our travel talk discussing a way for you to travel more and spend less.

In this episode, we’ll unpack super cool opportunities, awesome travel savings, and little-known secrets that can turn your dream trips into reality — without draining your bank account.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone craving their first big adventure, this is your go-to resource for stretching your travel dollars further than you ever thought possible.

We’re bringing you interviews with fellow savvy travelers, app success stories, and actionable advice to help you unlock experiences you never imagined you could afford.

WANT YOUR OWN FREE GUEST PASS?

Click here: https://free.traveladvantage.com/TRAVELCHICKMELISSA

Grab your coffee (or cocktail!) and let’s explore the world together — one deal, one destination, and one memory at a time.

Subscribe now and get ready to travel smarter. Your passport to affordable adventures starts here!