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In this heartfelt episode, host Amanda Bauner candidly shares her personal struggles amid political turmoil in the U.S. She discusses the impact of current events on her travel plans and explores why finding joy is especially important during challenging times. Amanda offers practical tips for cultivating joy in daily life and travel, emphasizing the value of community, resilience, and meaningful connections.  Resources from This Episode February 2025 Psychology Today article: "The Importance of Joy in the Darkest of Times" authored by F. Diane Barth, LCSW. HelpGuide.org's article: "Finding Joy During Difficult Times" authored by Stephanie Mihalas, PhD, and ABPP. Me and the Magic Episode 124: Microadventures for the Solo Traveler. Me and the Magic Episode 159: Why Your Travel Plans and Goals May Change. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, cruises, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Amanda Bauner is joined by MEI-Travel's Grace Korba to unveil the details of the Me and the Magic 2027 group trip, a 7-night cruise from New York City to Bermuda aboard the Norwegian Luna. This promises to be a great cruise filled with fun and friends. Learn more about this exciting trip and booking details here.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Host Amanda Bauner reunites with guests to recap their festive weekend at Dollywood during the Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration. They share stories about travel to Eastern Tennessee, their different accommodations, favorite Dollywood rides, top-notch holiday shows, shopping finds, local activities, and, of course, the famous cinnamon bread. The group also reflects on building friendships through travel in this heartwarming celebration of connection, adventure, and holiday magic. Join us for our Seine River Cruise in September 2026! Join Amanda Bauner and the Me and the Magic community on a 7-night Seine River cruise with AMA Waterways, round-trip from Paris, France, September 10-17, 2026! Find the itinerary, ship and stateroom details here.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop! 

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Disney expert Tim Foster to share and discuss their top 10 Walt Disney World attractions. Together, they explore what keeps them returning to favorites like Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion, Spaceship Earth, and more, including personal stories, repeatability, and the magic behind the details. Their conversation blends nostalgia, Disney history, and insider tips, while celebrating the joy and wonder of solo and group travel.  Connect with Our Guest Connect with Tim Foster at Celebrations Press. Follow these links to purchase Tim Foster's books: "It's a small world": The Definitive Edition Spaceship Earth: The Definitive Edition Join us for our Seine River Cruise in September 2026! Join Amanda Bauner and the Me and the Magic community on a 7-night Seine River cruise with AMA Waterways, round-trip from Paris, France, September 10-17, 2026! Find the itinerary, ship and stateroom details here.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop! 

In this episode, host Amanda Bauner shares her ultimate road trip planning checklist, drawn from years of travel experience. She walks listeners through every stage of preparation for a road trip, including booking accommodations, vehicle maintenance, packing tips, and budgeting. This practical, detailed episode is perfect for anyone wanting to be "road trip ready." Download the Road Trip Ready Checklist here.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, cruises, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop! 

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores famous filming locations around the world, from Hollywood and New York to London, Paris, and New Zealand. She shares her personal experiences visiting iconic sites and discusses how movies and TV shows like Stranger Things, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and Ted Lasso have made these destinations special for fans.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, cruises, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores five common travel blind spots, especially for solo travelers. Amanda shares personal experiences and actionable strategies to transform these blind spots into opportunities for more ease, freedom, and joy. Amanda also shares an upcoming meet-up at Walt Disney World and upcoming group trips to Dollywood in November 2025 and a Seine river cruise in France in September 2026, and a special save the date for the first Me and the Magic group trip in 2027.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, cruises, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Dollywood expert Katie Smith to dive into all things Dollywood and the surrounding eastern Tennessee area. They discuss the park's rich history, seasonal festivals like the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas, must-do attractions, local food recommendations, money-saving tips, and nearby sights. Katie shares insider advice for first-timers, details about Dollywood resorts, and her favorite holiday traditions.  Connect with Our Guest Connect with Katie Smith at FairyGodKatie on Instagram and TikTok. Also, listen to Katie on the Popcorn Bucket Gossip podcast.  RSVP for our Dollywood Weekend Getaway! Join us at Dollywood in eastern Tennessee for a magical holiday weekend getaway, November 7-9, 2025, during Dollywood's 40th anniversary celebration and the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival! RSVP here, or contact me to be invited to our private Facebook group as we plan the trip! Find all the trip details here.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Essential Tips for Sailing to Alaska from Seattle: Must-Do Adventures, Navigating Ports, and Packing Tips Host Amanda Bauner is joined by Grace Korba, Angela Batista, and Tim Bigonia to share in-depth details about their recent group cruise to Alaska aboard the Celebrity Edge. They discuss the highlights of sailing out of Seattle and then traveling through Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, B.C., diving into pre-cruise tips, unique excursions, favorite on-board experiences, and the joys of traveling with a diverse group.  Connect with Our Guests Connect with Grace Korba online on Facebook and Instagram, or email Grace at [email protected] . Also, you may contact Grace through MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. Connect with Angela Batista at AdventuresByAngela.com, on Facebook and on Instagram. Connect with Tim Bigonia online at Shoot the Moon Photography. RSVP for our Dollywood Weekend Getaway! Join us at Dollywood in eastern Tennessee for a magical holiday weekend getaway, November 7-9, 2025, during Dollywood's 40th anniversary celebration and the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival! RSVP here, or contact me to be invited to our private Facebook group as we plan the trip! Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!  

In this special episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner leads a heartfelt, laughter-filled live recording aboard the Celebrity Edge on the group Alaska cruise in July 2025. Amanda and the group share highlights from their Alaska cruise, reflect on the magic of traveling with a group, and recount memorable excursions and moments at sea. The group discusses everything from scenic vistas and favorite ship features to the power of community, culminating in a celebration of the podcast's five-year anniversary and an exciting giveaway for listeners. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this heartfelt episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes back Dawn Niebling to share her inspiring journey through breast cancer and how it shaped her most recent Walt Disney World trip with her family. Dawn offers practical tips for vacation planning and self-care during cancer treatment, highlights the emotional and logistical challenges faced, and reflects on the healing power of laughter, positivity, and Disney magic. The episode is filled with honest stories, travel advice, and moments of gratitude, making it a valuable listen for anyone navigating illness while still seeking joy and adventure. Connect with Dawn at [email protected], online on Facebook, or in the Me and the Magic community.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!   

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes life and leadership coach Angie Robinson to discuss the importance of cultivating a vacation mindset. Together, they explore how setting intentions before, during, and after a trip can make travel more meaningful and fulfilling. The conversation covers practical strategies for overcoming travel stress, embracing spontaneity, and ensuring your time away truly recharges you. Amanda and Angie share personal stories and actionable tips to help listeners approach their next getaway with mindfulness and purpose, whether traveling solo or with loved ones.  Connect with Our Guest Connect with Angie Robinson on Facebook or Instagram, and check out Angie's website to see what Angie offers as a leadership development coach. Also, listen to Angie's podcast, Leadership Magic. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop! 

In this episode, learn essential tips and empowering advice for planning and enjoying a solo road trip. Covering everything from creating flexible itineraries and staying safe to budgeting, healthy habits, and embracing alone time, host Amanda Bauner provides practical examples and personal insights to help listeners gain confidence and make their solo journeys both memorable and transformative. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner kicks off a summer road trip series by sharing why summer is the perfect time to hit the road. She offers practical tips on budgeting, planning, and making the most of a summer road trip, including apps to use, ways to save money, and must-pack essentials. Amanda also highlights fun ideas like curating the perfect playlist, taking scenic detours, and finding local flavors, making road trips enjoyable and memorable.   Resources "Summer Travel 2025: Road Trips Dominate as Americans Seek Cheaper, Flexible Getaways", May 15, 2025. Author: Mia Taylor. TravelPulse.com.  "Summer Travel Trends to Know for 2025", May 27, 2025. Author: Kelly Rosenfeld. TravelAgeWest.com.  Episode 140 of the Me and the Magic podcast highlights 9 of the best summer road trips in the USA and Canada. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode, host Amanda Bauner shares her detailed solo adventure aboard the Disney Dream cruise. She discusses her pre-cruise stay in Fort Lauderdale, her smooth embarkation process—including a last-minute concierge upgrade—and dives into shipboard experiences, from spa relaxation to dining at Palo. Amanda reviews exclusive concierge perks, onboard activities, Castaway Cay, while offering practical tips for solo travelers. The episode wraps with her seamless BrightLine train journey home and reflections on the overall magic of solo cruising with Disney. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!