Growing Careers & Companies Episode 7 | The Gifts of Travel
7th Episode of Growing Careers & Companies Podcast
The Gifts of Travel, with Dana Lewis
Our guest today is Dana Lewis, a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and travel-planning expert. In our wide-ranging conversation, we talk about her entrepreneurial journey built around her passion for travel. We also discuss what you should know if you are traveling with kids, and great destinations to include in your next vacation.
If you’re ready to go on a vacation after this pandemic, then this episode is for you!
Learn more about Dana and her story at: www.growingcareersandcompanies.com.
“It's all about creating experiences and designing these bucket list trips.”
02:25
Dana started her travel design company 6 years ago. She helps people plan out their trips all around the world, and started her business in response to her love for travel, and the many friends who asked her for advice in travel planning. Today, Dana curates very specific experiences for her clients and helps them to create life-long memories.
Dana shares some common mistakes that people make when they’re traveling:
1. Not buying travel protection insurance or travel health insurance - this can safeguard against unexpected events like illness, trip cancellation and more.
2. Not looking at entry requirements for countries, especially now during COVID.
“Through traveling, I have a deeper understanding of people...deep down we’re all the same...”
11:26
Dana has three-year-old twin toddlers and shares her experience about traveling with young kids.
Be prepared for their inevitable meltdowns
Snacks and mess-free magic marker coloring sets are great for keeping kids occupied
Make sure you maintain your routine/schedule as much as possible - including nap time!
According to Dana, traveling has had a positive impact on her children, and they are more open and friendly with people due to their experiences. Dana also became more accepting and more confident in herself after seeing so many different places and cultures.
“The trade-off is that you cut out things, and trade them for these memories that last forever.”
24:35
Dana hadn't traveled until she was an adult. She recommends creating a travel budget. There are many ways to travel on a budget.
Many people think that traveling is “not worth it” because you don’t get a physical thing for your money. But the memories you make will stay with you for years and years to come.
The Final 3 Questions
1. What is the lesson that has taken you the longest to learn?
Her worth as a business owner. At the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey, she worked non-stop because she was very dedicated to helping everyone that wanted to travel. This caused a lot of burnout. In the last year, she learned to set boundaries and know her true worth.
2. What are the 2 principles from the Growing Careers & Companies Framework that resonate the most with you?
Purpose and Legacy. Dana found her purpose in travel. Her legacy is the memories she helps create for her clients and their families.
3. What do you hope others take away from your story?
That travel is obtainable and life-changing. Your priorities shift, your views of the world shift, and you’ll feel more connected to the world and other people.
About Our Guest, Dana Lewis
“You could say I live and breathe travel. Since starting DWD in 2015, I’ve been able to help over 350 couples and families plan their weddings, honeymoons, and experiences to over 20 different countries. I’m committed to creating unforgettable memories and experiences for my clients all over the world without the stress and overwhelm that can come with planning a trip. I have big goals for DWD, and can't wait to watch them unfold. When I’m not traveling around scoping out the latest destinations and helping my clients plan their dream trip, I can be found in Waco, Texas with my husband and boy/girl twins.”
A warm thanks to Dana Lewis for taking the time to share her unique insights and experiences with us.
Resources from the show:
https://www.growingcareersandcompanies.com/
https://www.crerecruiting.com/
The Growing Careers and Companies Framework
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