Powering Travel

How to Make Every Trip More Meaningful — Without Spending More

Powering Travel host Elisabeth Goodridge joined NerdWallet's Smart Travel podcast to discuss how you can make travel more meaningful without overspending or missing out on authentic experiences. Check out the highlights of the episode: How do you plan a vacation that feels “worth it” without overspending? What’s the smartest way to turn bank points into long-haul premium flights? Smart Travel hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to design trips that maximize satisfaction and meaning without paying top dollar. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the United and JetBlue’s Blue Sky partnership, Delta adding Crunchyroll to seat-back entertainment alongside free Wi-Fi, and what Travis Kelce’s investment in Six Flags could mean for affordable parks.Then, Expedia’s “Powering Travel” podcast host Elisabeth Goodridge joins Meghan to talk about how to build memorable trips. She discusses using reviews and trusted communities to find authentic experiences, considering “destination dupes” to avoid overtourism, and budgeting with hidden fees in mind. Meghan and Sally wrap up the episode by answering a listener’s question about using Capital One points on Star Alliance airlines.Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, NerdWallet's free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel. To listen to more Powerting Travel episodes, visit our website and browse all 5 seasons!

Navigating the future of travel with CEO Ariane Gorin

Travel demands resilience, and leadership in the travel industry requires even more. Ariane Gorin, Chief Executive Officer of Expedia Group, joins Elisabeth to share her personal journey, leadership philosophy, and perspectives on the future of travel.Ariane’s path was sparked by a formative childhood trip that ended with her sleeping in a car on the side of a road in Italy, an experience that inspired a career dedicated to making travel more seamless for others. Drawing on her experience, she discusses her perspective on change management and how maintaining authenticity under pressure — the kind that makes diamonds — is one of the most important things a leader can do.From navigating the upheaval that brought the world to a halt in 2020 to embracing technology and innovation, Ariane offers advice to inspire leaders and insights that will excite any travel lover.

Food, travel, and hospitality with Chef Julian Hagood

The meals we remember most aren’t just about flavor — they’re about where we are, who we’re with, and the sense of place on the plate.In this episode, Chef Julian Hagood joins Elisabeth to explore how travel and food intertwine. Julian shares his journey from New York to Seattle, where he transformed an abandoned bodega into one of the city’s most beloved restaurants. He reveals some of his favorite dishes inspired by the Pacific Northwest, rooted in seasonal and local ingredients. Julian also talks about why collaboration with local farmers, fishers, and fellow chefs is the secret sauce behind his menus. It’s the small details that contribute to top-notch hospitality.If you’ve ever dreamed of chasing the world’s best meals or wondered what it takes to create a guest experience worth traveling for, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Phil Keoghan talks travel lessons from “The Amazing Race”

Travel rewards those who remain curious and immerse themselves in the local culture. For longtime host of “The Amazing Race” Phil Keoghan, missing those opportunities means missing the entire point of the journey.In this episode, he joins Elisabeth for an inspired conversation about the lessons he’s learned from a lifetime of travel. He reflects on his earliest memories abroad and how exposure to diverse cultures shaped his worldview. Phil credits curiosity as the greatest gift he received from his parents, one that continues to fuel his approach to life.He shares personal stories from the road, along with reflections on hosting over 37 seasons of “The Amazing Race.” From inspiring viewers to explore the world to showing the best of humanity on screen, he talks about how the show has encouraged millions to step outside their comfort zone. Finally, Phil speaks to the magic that exists beyond group tours and why the moments when things go “wrong” often become the most meaningful memories. It’s these unexpected stories that leave a lasting impression, shaping not only how we travel but how we live.

Jaime Camil has family travel figured out

Traveling with family can create memories that last a lifetime. But what’s the secret to making those moments truly extraordinary?Actor and singer Jaime Camil joins host Elisabeth Goodridge to unpack what authentic travel experiences with family look and feel like.Jaime reflects on how his father sparked his love for travel, teaching him to appreciate the difference between luxurious escapes and genuine, affordable adventures. Now a father himself, he shares how he finds that magic with his own children and what hotels can do to create unique experiences that go far beyond a pool or room service. The answer is simple: the best stays are the ones that immerse families in the local culture.Ready to see what destinations await? Visit Jaime’s Travel Shop mentioned in this episode! Plus, check out more details of the interview on Expedia Group’s website.