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From international fashion runways to New Zealand racecourses, Kylie Bax has experienced an extraordinary journey. In this special audio-only episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with the New Zealand-born former international model and actress to talk about traveling the world during her fashion career, returning home to New Zealand and building an entirely different chapter around her lifelong love of horses. Kylie rose from her beginnings in New Zealand to an international modeling career that put her on major magazine covers and took her to fashion capitals around the world. She also expanded into acting before eventually returning home to New Zealand. Today, Kylie is deeply involved in the country's thoroughbred racing industry through B.A.X – Bloodstock Achieving Xcellence, her boutique racehorse syndication business. We talk about the incredible contrast between those worlds—and the experiences that connect them. In this audio-only episode: 🐎 Growing up around horses in New Zealand ✈️ Leaving home to pursue an international modeling career 📸 Traveling the world for fashion 🎬 Moving from modeling into acting 🌎 What years of international travel taught Kylie 🇳🇿 Returning home to New Zealand 🐎 Rediscovering her lifelong connection to horses 🏇 Building B.A.X – Bloodstock Achieving Xcellence 🤝 Introducing people to racehorse ownership through syndication 🏆 Experiencing the excitement of racing success ❤️ Kylie's connection with her horses 🐴 The importance of racehorse care, rehoming and retraining 👨‍👩‍👧 Family and the next generation 🔄 Reinventing yourself after a successful first career This isn't simply a conversation about modeling. And it isn't simply about horse racing. It's about travel, reinvention and coming home. Kylie spent years traveling the world pursuing extraordinary opportunities before eventually returning to the country—and the animals—that helped shape her from the beginning. 🎧 This is an AUDIO-ONLY episode, so put on your headphones and enjoy the conversation. 👍 Follow and subscribe to The Travel Wins Podcast for more conversations with entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers, musicians and business professionals whose careers have taken them around the world. 📤 SHARE this episode with someone who loves horse racing, fashion, travel or stories about people creating incredible second chapters. 💬 And I'd love to know: Have you ever traveled somewhere only to realize how much you appreciated home? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

What does it take to build a career in combat sports while traveling the world and raising a family? On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with Greg Bloom, CEO of Red Owl Boxing, for a conversation about boxing, business, law, international travel, leadership and the family support required to make an unconventional career work. Greg's journey through combat sports began while he was still in law school. After helping a professional fighter navigate a contractual dispute, Greg began managing fighters and eventually built a sports agency representing athletes across boxing and MMA. More than two decades later, he has experienced the fight business from almost every angle—as an attorney, manager, adviser, and executive. Today, he's bringing that experience to Red Owl Boxing, where he's helping expand a growing boxing brand focused on developing the sport's next generation of fighters. We discuss Red Owl's philosophy of building reputations instead of simply protecting undefeated records, expanding boxing into new markets, creating better opportunities for developing fighters and the company's ambitious plans for the future. But this conversation goes beyond boxing. Greg has spent years traveling throughout the United States and internationally for fights and business while also raising a family. We talk about the reality of leaving home for another event, another meeting or another country—and how important it has been to have an understanding and supportive wife helping make that career possible. In this episode: 🥊 Greg Bloom's lifelong connection to boxing ⚖️ Becoming a lawyer and representing professional fighters 🥊 Managing athletes across boxing and MMA 🌎 Traveling internationally through combat sports 📺 Growing fight promotions and media relationships 🦉 Becoming CEO of Red Owl Boxing 🥊 The philosophy behind “building reputations, not records” 📈 Expanding the Red Owl Boxing brand 🏟️ The future of The Owl's Nest in Houston 📺 Boxing as a modern media business ✈️ Managing an intense business-travel schedule 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Raising a family while traveling the world ❤️ The importance of having an understanding spouse ⚖️ Finding balance between ambition, career and family Whether you're a boxing fan, entrepreneur, attorney, sports executive or business traveler, Greg's story offers an interesting look at what happens outside the ring while building a career inside the fight business. 🎧 Watch or listen to my full conversation with Greg Bloom on The Travel Wins Podcast. 👍 LIKE the episode if you enjoyed our conversation. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more interviews with entrepreneurs, CEOs, athletes, entertainers, musicians and business professionals whose careers keep them on the road. 💬 COMMENT: If your career requires frequent travel, what's the most important thing you've learned about balancing work and family? 📤 SHARE this episode with a boxing fan, business traveler or someone whose spouse spends a lot of time on the road. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

John Allen | From Oklahoma State to Chasing a Country Music Dream | The Travel Wins Podcast What does the beginning of a country music career actually look like? On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with emerging Oklahoma country singer and songwriter John Allen, who's experiencing that journey right now. John recently graduated from Oklahoma State University, where he earned his master's degree in accounting, before deciding to pursue music full-time. In 2026, he began releasing his first original music, starting with “Regret” and following it with “Dying Days.” Now he's performing throughout Oklahoma, playing intimate clubs and local events, traveling to Nashville to record and learning what it takes to turn his passion for country music into a career. But John already has one BIG dream: 🎤 Someday he wants to perform at Boone Pickens Stadium at his alma mater, Oklahoma State. We're talking with John long before that dream has been realized—and that's what makes this conversation so interesting. We're getting to watch the journey from the beginning. In this episode: 🎓 Graduating from Oklahoma State University 🎸 Deciding to pursue country music full-time 🎶 Writing and releasing his first original songs ❤️ The heartbreak that inspired “Regret” 🎧 Releasing “Dying Days” 🎙️ Experiencing a professional recording studio for the first time ✈️ Traveling to Nashville to record 🤠 His Oklahoma and Red Dirt country influences 🍻 Playing smaller clubs and intimate venues 👥 Learning how to win over new audiences 📈 Building a following as an independent artist 💼 Bringing an accounting education into the business of music 🏟️ Dreaming of someday performing at Boone Pickens Stadium There's something special about discovering an artist when the story is still being written. The clubs may be small today. The audiences may be growing one person at a time. But every artist who eventually plays a stadium started somewhere. 🎧 Watch or listen to my full conversation with John Allen on The Travel Wins Podcast. 👍 LIKE this episode and help more people discover John's music. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Travel Wins for more conversations with musicians, entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers and business professionals. 💬 COMMENT: What artist did you discover before they became well known? 📤 SHARE this episode with an Oklahoma State fan, country music fan or someone chasing a dream of their own. And remember John's goal: Boone Pickens Stadium. Maybe we'll come back to this episode someday and say this is where we first heard him talk about it. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

What does it take to turn a passion for country music into a professional career? On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with country singer, songwriter, guitarist and PRCA cowboy Brian Gaylord to talk about his rapidly growing music career, performing throughout California, recording in Nashville and taking the next step onto stages in Las Vegas. What impressed me about Brian isn't simply his voice or guitar playing. It's his professional approach to the music business. Brian is applying the same discipline, work ethic and attention to detail that have helped him throughout his life to the challenge of building a career as an independent country artist. And he's putting in the miles. From wineries, rodeos and country venues throughout California to upcoming performances at Ole Red Las Vegas and Category 10, Brian is building his audience the old-fashioned way: One show. One song. One fan at a time. We also talk about his PRCA rodeo background, traveling to Nashville to record original music, building a professional band, developing relationships with venues and understanding that today's independent musician also needs to think like an entrepreneur. In this episode: • Brian Gaylord's journey into country music • Bringing a professional mindset to the music business • Performing throughout Southern California • Taking his music from California to Las Vegas • Performing at Ole Red Las Vegas • Singing and playing guitar professionally • His background as a PRCA cowboy • Recording original music in Nashville • Building a catalog as an independent artist • The business behind live music • Building relationships with venues and audiences • Balancing travel, performances and recording • Why professionalism creates opportunities • What's next for Brian Gaylord Brian's story is especially interesting because we're watching his career develop right now. The shows are getting bigger. The travel is expanding. The music is growing. And the opportunities are following. Whether you're a musician, entrepreneur, salesperson or someone trying to turn a passion into a profession, there is a valuable lesson in Brian's approach: Don't wait until you're successful to act like a professional. 🎧 Watch or listen to my full conversation with Brian Gaylord on The Travel Wins Podcast. 👍 LIKE the episode if you enjoyed our conversation. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more interviews with musicians, entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers and business professionals whose careers keep them on the road. 💬 COMMENT: What's more important when building a career—talent, hard work, professionalism or relationships? 📤 SHARE this episode with an independent artist or someone working toward turning their passion into a career. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Is longevity becoming one of the next major growth industries in health and wellness? On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with Scott Crosbie of Next Health Nashville to discuss his journey into the longevity business, what he has learned so far, the rapid growth surrounding health optimization, and why more people are becoming interested in taking a proactive approach to their health. Scott's journey into longevity became deeply personal after his mother's experience with dementia led him to explore health optimization and the possibilities surrounding living healthier for longer. We talk about the evolution of the longevity industry, the growing consumer interest in preventative health and healthspan, and what Scott has learned as an entrepreneur building Next Health's presence in Nashville. Our conversation comes at the perfect time. On Saturday, September 12, 2026, Scott and Kim Crosbie are helping host the Next Health Longevity Summit at the Conrad Nashville, bringing together leading voices in longevity, preventative medicine, performance and wellness. In this episode: • Scott Crosbie's journey into the longevity business • How a personal family experience changed his perspective on health • Why longevity and healthspan are attracting so much attention • The rapid growth of the longevity industry • Building Next Health in Nashville • Health optimization and preventative wellness • The business opportunities emerging around longevity • Why personal health data is becoming increasingly important • The future of longevity and personalized healthcare • The Next Health Longevity Summit in Nashville • Why business travelers should think differently about their long-term health Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, frequent business traveler or simply interested in living a healthier life, this conversation offers an interesting look inside one of today's fastest-evolving areas of health and wellness. 👍 LIKE this episode if you enjoyed our conversation. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Travel Wins Podcast for more conversations with entrepreneurs, CEOs, athletes, entertainers, musicians and business leaders. 💬 COMMENT: If you could improve one thing about your long-term health today—sleep, nutrition, fitness, recovery or stress—which would you choose? 📤 SHARE this conversation with someone interested in longevity, wellness, entrepreneurship or taking greater ownership of their health. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

How do you keep creating great rock ’n’ roll when music isn't your only responsibility? On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, I sit down with Tommy London and Britt Lightning of The Jetsetters to talk about making new music, creating music videos and finding the time to keep The Jetsetters moving forward while juggling their other careers, travel and responsibilities. Tommy London brings years of experience as a singer, songwriter, musician and radio personality, while Britt Lightning brings her incredible guitar talent and experience as a professional touring musician. Together, they're The Jetsetters—and they're proving there's still plenty of room for energetic, guitar-driven rock ’n’ roll. We get into the part of making music that fans don't always see: coordinating schedules, balancing different commitments, finding time to create and then doing everything required to turn a song into a finished release and music video. In this episode: • Tommy London and Britt Lightning discuss The Jetsetters • Balancing music with other careers and responsibilities • Writing and recording new rock ’n’ roll • Creating music videos • Finding time for creative projects • Life as working professional musicians • Collaboration when schedules are already packed • Why making music is still worth the effort • Keeping rock ’n’ roll alive with new songs The Jetsetters' story isn't only for musicians. It's for anyone who has ever said, "I'd love to do that, but I don't have the time." Sometimes you don't find the time. You make it. If you enjoy the conversation, LIKE the episode, SUBSCRIBE to The Travel Wins Podcast, and SHARE it with a rock ’n’ roll fan. And most importantly, check out The Jetsetters' songs and music videos and support artists who are still creating new rock ’n’ roll. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

What is it really like to move to Nashville and try to build a career in the music business? In this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, Pete Kotzbach sits down with Nashville-based singer-songwriter Erica Whitney to talk about leaving South Dakota, relocating to Music City, and discovering firsthand what it takes to pursue a career as a professional artist.Erica shares her experiences in Nashville so far, what she's learning about the music industry, the challenges facing emerging artists, and why chasing a dream sometimes means leaving the familiar behind and betting on yourself. We also talk about songwriting, performing, networking, developing as an artist, and adjusting to life in a city filled with musicians and songwriters chasing their own opportunities.In this episode: • Why Erica Whitney moved from South Dakota to Nashville • Her first impressions of the Nashville music scene • The realities of pursuing a career in music • Developing as a singer and songwriter • Building relationships in Music City • What she's learned about the business side of music • Taking risks and leaving your comfort zone • What's next for Erica Whitney Whether you're an aspiring singer-songwriter, an independent musician, a Nashville music fan, or someone considering making a major move to pursue your own dream, Erica's journey offers an inspiring look at what happens after you decide to take the chance. 👍 LIKE the episode if you enjoyed our conversation. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Travel Wins Podcast for more conversations with musicians, entertainers, athletes, entrepreneurs and business professionals. 💬 COMMENT: Would you move across the country for the opportunity to pursue your dream? 📤 SHARE this interview with an independent artist or someone who needs a little encouragement to take their next big step. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Campbell McLaren Is Still Breaking the Rules Some people build a legacy and spend the rest of their careers talking about it. Campbell McLaren isn't one of those people. While many fans know him as one of the visionaries who helped launch the UFC and introduce mixed martial arts to the mainstream, Campbell's focus today is firmly on the future. As the founder and CEO of Combate Global, he continues to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and find new ways to connect sports and entertainment with audiences around the world. That same mindset is what inspired his newest venture: the launch of his podcast, There Are No Rules with Campbell McLaren, which debuts this week. Campbell joined me on The Travel Wins podcast to discuss the new show, his entrepreneurial journey, and why some of the biggest opportunities in life come from refusing to accept the limitations others place on you. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

What happens after the spotlight fades? In this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, Pete Kotzbach sits down with former NFL offensive lineman, entrepreneur, photographer, and author Tony Mandarich for a powerful conversation about football, overcoming adversity, addiction recovery, personal growth, and building a meaningful life after professional sports. Tony shares honest reflections on the pressures of playing in the NFL, the challenges he faced off the field, and how resilience, accountability, and purpose helped him create a remarkable second chapter.In this episode you'll discover: Tony's NFL journeyLife after professional footballOvercoming adversity and rebuildingEntrepreneurship and creative pursuitsLessons in resilience and personal growthFinding purpose beyond sportsIf you enjoyed this interview: 👍 Like this video 🔔 Subscribe to The Travel Wins Podcast 💬 Leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway from Tony's incredible journey. 📤 Share this episode with football fans, athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone inspired by stories of perseverance and redemption. The Travel Wins Podcast features conversations with athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs, musicians, and business leaders who share the travel experiences and life lessons that have shaped their success. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

On this episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, host Pete Kotzbach sits down with rising Texas-based country rock band Dear Iris for an honest conversation about music, travel, sacrifice, and chasing a dream while managing real-life responsibilities. Forged in the heart of East Texas, Dear Iris delivers a powerful blend of Texas country music and alternative rock grit. From the driving energy of “Kylie’s Song” to the emotional depth of “Restless On You,” the band’s sound is rooted in authentic storytelling and shaped by the miles they’ve logged on the road. Their music reflects both where they come from and where they’re headed — grounded in Texas soil but reaching for something much bigger. What makes this episode especially compelling is the band’s transparency about the reality of being an independent touring band. Dear Iris doesn’t tour full-time — they tour around day jobs, family commitments, and real-world responsibilities. During the week, they’re clocking in at work and showing up for their families. When time allows, they load up the gear, hit the highways, and bring their music to audiences across Texas and beyond. In this conversation, the band opens up about: ·         Balancing music careers with full-time jobs ·         Touring while prioritizing family and personal relationships ·         The mental and physical challenges of life on the road ·         Staying creative and motivated in today’s competitive country music industry ·         Building momentum without losing authenticity For business travelers, creatives, musicians, and anyone chasing a passion while juggling everyday responsibilities, this episode offers real insight and inspiration. Dear Iris represents the modern grind — proving that success doesn’t always come from shortcuts, but from consistency, sacrifice, and belief in the journey. 🎧 Listen now to hear how Dear Iris is building a future in Texas country rock, one song, one show, and one mile at a time — only on The Travel Wins Podcast. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Country singer-songwriter Mark Mackay joins The Travel Wins Podcast to share his journey through thousands of shows, iconic venues, and endless miles on the road. In this episode, Mark talks about: ·         How travel influences his songwriting ·         Staying authentic in today’s music industry ·         The stories behind songs like “Old Songs and Old Trucks” ·         Balancing creative growth with staying true to your roots If you love American roots music, country-rock, and real conversations about life on the road, this episode delivers. 🎸🎧 Subscribe for more conversations with musicians, entrepreneurs, and high performers who travel for a living. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

Shepherding a Healthier Future for Pets — A Conversation with Shepherd Boy Farms CEO Ashton Hood When passion for animals meets generations of farm-bred expertise, something remarkable happens. That’s exactly the story behind Shepherd Boy Farms — and in my latest episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with the company’s CEO, Ashton Hood, to explore how a Midwest family farm transformed itself into one of the most trusted names in premium pet nutrition. What started as a leading American meat supplier has evolved into a mission-driven brand redefining how we nourish our four-legged family members. Ashton shares how Shepherd Boy Farms recognized a massive gap in the global pet-food industry and stepped in with a simple, powerful promise: whole ingredients, honest processing, and farm-to-bowl integrity. Their Indiana farm now processes and packages top-quality pet products made with real beef, garden-fresh veggies, and natural fruits, offering dogs and cats around the world the kind of nutrition you'd expect from a company that has been doing things the right way for decades. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

In this episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Gale Bird, one of Charleston, South Carolina’s most compelling rising bands—known for their harmony-rich intimacy, electrifying stage energy, and storytelling rooted in Lowcountry life. If you’re a fan of southern Americana, indie rock warmth, and authentic artistry, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Gale Bird is a trio with a rare balance: powerful enough to lift a roof with full-band rock-and-roll, yet intentional enough to quiet a packed room with soft, layered harmonies. Their performances feel big and cinematic one moment, and then suddenly personal—like you’re hearing a song in your living room with old friends. Their sound was shaped by longtime friends Joshua Gale and Sean Monahan, who began writing songs together in their early twenties while attending college in Charleston. After years of life, travel, and creative growth, they reunited with a mission to finish what they started. The missing piece arrived right at home: Joshua’s wife, Melissa, whose vocals and presence added the dimension they didn't even know they needed. Together, the three created Gale Bird's signature warmth, chemistry, and character. Signed to Charleston’s own Holy City Music, the band writes with honesty, soul, and a clear-eyed look at love—its commitment, flaws, and the conversations between the two. Their songs feel lived-in, weathered, coastal, and heartfelt, shaped by the Carolina coastline they call home. 🎙️ What We Discuss in This Episode In our conversation, we dive deep into: Gale Bird’s roots in Charleston and how the Lowcountry shaped their soundThe creative chemistry between longtime friends and a married coupleFinding the balance between big-stage rock moments and harmony-driven quiet sectionsHow Holy City Music influenced their growth and directionLife as a rising Southern band navigating travel, creativity, and connectionTheir songwriting approach—celebrating devotion, confessing flaws, and telling honest love storiesHow life on the Carolina coast continues to inspire their art This is a rich, thoughtful, entertaining conversation perfect for music lovers, creatives, business travelers, and anyone who appreciates authentic artistry built from real life. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

🎧 The Travel Wins Podcast – Episode with Presley Aronson 🎧 In this episode, California country singer/songwriter Presley Aronson joins me to talk about his life on the road, his creative process, and his vision for the future of country music. 🌎 Highlights: • Recent tour experiences and fan connections • Sneak peek into his new music (including “Broke Heart” ft. Russell Hitchcock!) • His business insights as an independent artist • What “Cali Country” really means to him Presley’s blend of artistry, independence, and entrepreneurial drive makes this a can’t-miss episode for anyone chasing their creative dream. 👉 Don’t forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring interviews from The Travel Wins. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.

In this inspiring episode of The Travel Wins Podcast, host Pete Kotzbach sits down with Luke Schneider, CEO and co-founder of Fire Department Coffee, to explore how a mission-driven company grew from the firehouse to Walmart shelves across America. A U.S. Navy veteran and firefighter, Luke’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and leadership. What began as a small-batch coffee roasting operation has become a nationally recognized brand — one that not only delivers great coffee but also gives back through the Fire Dept. Coffee Foundation, supporting injured and ill first responders. ☕ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: ·Luke’s journey from firefighter to successful CEO ·The story behind Fire Department Coffee’s Walmart expansion · How business travel drives growth and brand partnerships · Balancing leadership, travel, and family life · The company’s mission to serve those who serve us Whether you’re a business traveler, entrepreneur, or coffee lover, this conversation will fuel your motivation to build with purpose and lead with integrity. 🔥 About Fire Department Coffee Fire Department Coffee (FDC) is a veteran-owned, firefighter-run coffee company dedicated to crafting delicious, small-batch roasts while giving back to first responders. Every cup supports the Fire Dept. Coffee Foundation, which helps firefighters and first responders who are injured or facing illness. Shop now ➡️ https://www.firedeptcoffee.com ✈️ About The Travel Wins The Travel Wins is a business travel podcast hosted by Pete Kotzbach, featuring world-class guests — from athletes and entrepreneurs to entertainers and executives — who share how they balance success, travel, and life on the road. 🎧 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-travel-wins--3480301/support.