Athlete

Meryl Davis – Dancing Queen

Meryl Davis is my guest on today’s podcast. Meryl skated to Olympic gold in ice dancing in 2014 and won the coveted mirrored ball on Dancing With The Stars. Since that time she has continued her education at the University of Michigan in cultural anthropology, got married in France, skated professionally around the world and she is empowering girls thru various philanthropic endeavors. I was excited to spend some time talking with Meryl about her travels around the world and her perspective of different cultures.

“You just have to buckle up and just accept what comes along with the travel lifestyle”

Meryl Davis on social media:

Meryl’s listening choice while traveling for work is:

Meryl enjoys watching movies while flying around the world for skating when not studying for schoolwork.

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

Meryl Davis Bio

When Meryl first fell in love with figure skating on a frozen lake by her childhood home outside of Detroit, Michigan, she had no idea the journey she was about to embark on. Teaming up with partner, Charlie White at the young age of nine, Meryl and Charlie began their quest together. Neither knowing much about the discipline of ice-dance, the team was driven by a passion for skating and the desire to learn, grow and see improvement from one day to the next. 20 years later, Meryl and Charlie are the reigning Olympic Champions and the first and only Americans to win the event. They’re also six-time U.S. Champions and 2-time World Champions, making them the most decorated U.S. ice dancers of all time.

Immediately following their 2014 Olympic win in Sochi, Russia, Meryl and Charlie continued to dance into the hearts of Americans on season 18 of the hit TV show, Dancing with the Stars. With pro partner, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Meryl again came away with a win and the coveted Mirrorball trophy.

Post Olympics

Continuing their post-Olympic whirlwind, Meryl and Charlie now travel the world sharing their passion for skating with some of the most loved international skating tours, including Stars on Ice. With education always having been a priority for the pair, both are currently finishing up degrees at the University of Michigan while exploring other passions and interests.

For Meryl, the journey to becoming an Olympic Champion was filled with challenges and opportunities that allowed her to find strength and confidence. As such, Meryl now seeks to empower girls and young women through her multiple philanthropic endeavors. Most prominently, Meryl is proud to be a Founding Co-Chair of Figure Skating in Detroit, a youth development organization that empowers girls to develop life skills through the sport of figure skating with a heavy emphasis on education. Meryl Davis is also on the Advisory Panel of the Women’s Sports Foundation, a UNICEF Kid Power Champion, and Classroom Champions Athlete.

When not at home with her family in Birmingham, Michigan Meryl most loves sharing her story and experiences in the hopes of inspiring others to follow their dreams.

Casey Patterson beach volleyball AVP family mormon

Casey Patterson – King Of The Beach

Casey Patterson is my guest this week. Casey is a professional beach volleyball player and family man. See below for the listing of his volleyball accomplishments…..it’s a really long list. Volleyball is only one aspect of this successful businessman and family man. We bonded over the similarities in our careers with the fact that if we don’t perform in our jobs we don’t make money for our families. Casey shares some stories of his travels, 100K miles over the summer, and how he and his wife, Lexi, raise their 4 children.

We discuss the growth of beach volleyball and what it was like for him to represent his country in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Casey goes into more detail about what is really involved in being a professional athlete and some of the money making opportunities that are available for the players.

Casey on social media:

Casey’s listening choice while traveling for work is:

He listens to podcasts and music while traveling

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

BIOGRAPHY

Casey Patterson BIO

Sport: Volleyball

Discipline(s): Beach Volleyball

Height: 6-6

Hometown: Newbury Park, Calif.

High School: Newbury Park High School

College: Brigham Young University, ’05 recreational management

Team/Club: Club Santa Barbara

Olympic Experience

2016 Olympic Games (tied for 19th with Jake Gibb)

World Championship Experience

2017 World Championships (tied for 17th with Theo Brunner)
2015 World Championships (tied for 5th with Jake Gibb)
2013 World Championships (4th place with Jake Gibb)

Other Career Highlights

MOST NOTABLE
Tied for 19th with Jake Gibb at the 2016 Rio Olympics
Finished fifth at the 2015 Beach World Championships with Jake Gibb. Duo was eliminated in the quarterfinals by Brazil
With Gibb, named USA Volleyball’s Beach Team of the Year for 2013 and AVP’s 2014 men’s Team of the Year
—
DID YOU KNOW?
Has competed in four 2019 FIVB World Tour events, three with Slick. Tied for 9th in The Hague with new partner Chase Budinger
Competed in eight 2018 FIVB World Tour events with Stafford Slick. Best finish was third at Tokyo three-star
Played in six 2018 AVP Tour events with Slick. Best finish was third in Austin
In 2017, partnered with Theo Brunner and posted a best finish of fourth on the FIVB World Tour; duo had two third-place finishes on the domestic AVP Tour
At the 2016 Olympics, Jake Gibb/Casey Patterson lost to Spain 21-19, 16-21, 15-7, making them 1-2 in pool play. The pair officially tied for 19th when they were eliminated after pool play due to point differential
During the 2016 season, finished fourth two times with Gibb for their best finishes on the FIVB World Tour
Took fifth place at the 2015 Hamburg Major, finishing Olympic qualification with best finishes of one gold (St. Petersburg) and one silver (Olsztyn)
Tied for seventh at the inaugural FIVB World Tour Finals (2015) with Jake Gibb
On the 2016 AVP Tour, won three events with Gibb, including Huntington Beach and Manhattan Beach
Partnered with Jake Gibb during the 2013 season, when both players were left without partners for the first tournament of the year. On the FIVB Tour between 2013-16, duo had two golds, silver and bronze
2013 AVP Best Offensive Player; Only team to advance to seven semifinals as the top-ranked team on the 2013 AVP Tour
While partnered with Ryan Doherty in 2012, the duo participated in two AVP events, one NVL tournament and seven Jose Cuervo events where they won twice and had three other podium finishes
Named MVP in the 2010 Puerto Rican indoor league
Competed in the indoor Swedish Elite Professional League as an outside hitter for the Falkenberg professional team, and led team to the finals where they won the gold medal
Played for Club Santa Barbara in high school

Personal: Married wife, Lexi, in 2005 and has two sons and two daughters…Graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in recreational management

Maddison McKibbin podcast business travel volleyball bearded brother riley USC beach AVP

Maddison McKibbin – The Bearded Brother

Maddison McKibbin is my guest on today’s episode. It was great speaking with one half of the “Bearded Brothers” pro beach volleyball team. Maddison shared some stories about life as a professional volleyball player, indoors and beach. He also shared his snow volleyball stories as he talked about the possibility of the sport becoming a Winter Olympic game.

We talked about life outside of volleyball and how players in professional sports need to diversify their talents and connections. The McKibbin brothers have successfully developed their audio/video company supporting the volleyball community and sharing the fun times with everyone.

You can watch the McKibbin brothers play in the AVP beach tournaments in person or streaming on Amazon Prime. The volleyball community as a whole is welcoming to new fans and truly appreciates the support they receive.

Maddison McKibbin was a three-time state champion at Punahou High in Honolulu for indoor volleyball. He was the MVP of both the 2009 Volleyball Magazine Fab 50 list as well as the Mizuno/Volleyball Magazine All-American Team. Maddison continued his indoor career as opposite/outside hitter at the University of Southern California.

Maddison on social media:

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

McKibbin Brothers BIO

The McKibbin brothers, Maddison and Riley, grew up on the island of Oahu playing volleyball in their backyard and on the sand of the Outrigger Canoe Club. They are the only brothers in the history of the sport to have played together in high school, college, professionally overseas and now professionally on the beach on the AVP tour. Born two years apart, the McKibbins attended Punahou High School. They lead the boys varsity volleyball team to a pair of state championships. In high school, they represented the United States at the FIVB Beach Volleyball Junior World Championships in China, Bermuda and The Netherlands.

After both accepting scholarships to the University of Southern California, the McKibbins led the USC men’s volleyball team to two NCAA Final Four appearances. On the professional indoor volleyball circuit, they played one year together in Greece. The brothers joined forces on the AVP tour in 2015. The McKibbins have played in 12 AVP events as partners, finishing as high as ninth place four times. An injury to Riley separated them for five tour stops last season, during which time Maddison won the 2017 San Francisco Open (and sibling bragging rights). The McKibbins have strong family ties to volleyball, specifically at USC. Their uncle, Owen, also helped the Trojans to a pair of Final Fours. Their aunt, Claudia, won a national championship there in 1980.

5 for Friday with Maddison McKibbin

Maddison McKibbin is my guest on today’s 5 for Friday. A world class athlete and professional beach volleyball player, Maddison has learned what it takes to be the best. I really enjoyed my conversation with Maddison as we discussed his life as a professional beach volleyball player and video content creator with his brother Riley. Maddison talks about the differences in traveling for the AVP tour and the FIVB tour. As their video content creating gets better they have to remember to pack all of the additional recording gear when traveling to tournaments.

Make sure to listen to the full episode on Monday.

Maddison on social media:

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

McKibbin Brothers BIO

The McKibbin brothers, Maddison and Riley, grew up on the island of Oahu playing volleyball in their backyard and on the sand of the Outrigger Canoe Club. They are the only brothers in the history of the sport to have played together in high school, college, professionally overseas. They continue to play professionally on the beach on the AVP tour. Born two years apart, the McKibbins attended Punahou High School. They lead the boys varsity volleyball team to a pair of state championships. In high school, they represented the United States at the FIVB Beach Volleyball Junior World Championships in China, Bermuda and The Netherlands.

After both accepting scholarships to the University of Southern California, the McKibbins led the USC men’s volleyball team to two NCAA Final Four appearances. On the professional indoor volleyball circuit, they played one year together in Greece. The brothers joined forces on the AVP tour in 2015. The McKibbins have played in 12 AVP events as partners, finishing as high as ninth place four times. An injury to Riley separated them for five tour stops last season, during which time Maddison won the 2017 San Francisco Open. The McKibbins have strong family ties to volleyball, specifically at USC. Their uncle, Owen, also helped the Trojans to a pair of Final Fours. Their aunt, Claudia, won a national championship there in 1980.

Ryron Gracie – Keeping It Real With Family

Ryron Gracie is my guest on today’s podcast. A 5th degree black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Ryron shares his upbringing in jiu jitsu and some of his travel stories. Ryron shares stories from his travels over the past 20 years while teaching the gentle art of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Included are stories while training and cornering for fighters like Ronda Rousey. We discuss the differences in traveling as a single person and now having a family. I found out that Ryron and I have very similar outlooks in the desire to travel and see and meet as many people and places as possible with the time that we have.

“I want to to start making a list of everywhere I’ve traveled now that I’m talking to you”

A recognizable figure within the jiu-jitsu community, Ryron Gracie became also a familiar face among mixed martial arts (MMA) fans after a series of web episodes named “The Gracie Breakdown” where Ryron and his brother Rener Gracie go over techniques utilized in UFC events. Ryron Gracie is also an instructor at the Gracie Academy.

Ryron was raised on the mats of the Torrance academy, beginning his training as a toddler. Ryron also started teaching Gracie jiu-jitsu from a very young age, and by the age of 12, he was already coaching children under his father’s guidance. At that same age, Ryron was involved in the historical first UFC event, a competition created partly by his dad. Ryron had the chore of cleaning the mats after each bout. Having a 12-year-old clean blood off the mats was not taken lightly by the crowd, thus forcing Rorion to replace him with an adult after that first event.

Ryron and his brother Rener became known among mixed martial arts (MMA) enthusiasts through a series of YouTube videos called: The Gracie Breakdown. In these videos, the Gracie brothers broke down grappling techniques used on the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Strikeforce in some of the promotions most important fights.

Ryron on social media:

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

Gracie Academy Overview

In 1925, Carlos Gracie established the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Brazil. In 1978, Rorion Gracie brought Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to the United States, and in 1989 he established the first Gracie Academy on North American soil in Torrance, California.

To accommodate the worldwide expansion of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, in 2017, Ryron and Rener moved the family business to an even larger facility and established “Gracie University” to reflect the shift from a single academy to a global organization. The Torrance location is one of the most successful martial arts schools in the world with over 1,000 students. Torrance also serves as the global headquarters for hundreds of Certified Training Centers and over 150,000 home-study students learning online in 196 countries. Whether you live in Southern California, or you’re just visiting, we invite you to join us on the green mats in “Jiu-Jitsu Heaven” to experience first-hand the beauty, simplicity and effectiveness of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

5 for Friday with Ryron Gracie

Ryron Gracie is my guest on today’s 5 for Friday. Ryron is a 5th degree black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Helio Gracie‘s grandson and the eldest son of Rorion Gracie. This is a quick and exciting episode of Ryron sharing a few travel stories from his work, sharing Gracie Jiu Jitsu around the world.

I ask Ryron a question at the end of this clip, “where has been your favorite place to teach around the world”? Try and guess Ryron’s answer to the question before the full episode is released on Monday.

“Everywhere you go there is something to see”

Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie >Ryron Gracie

Team/Association: Gracie Academy

Even though he taught classes regularly at the Torrance academy when growing up, Ryron Gracie still managed to compete often in jiu-jitsu, including against his own cousin, Crosley Gracie, in 2001 as a brown belt, a fight that lasted 90 minutes and ended with Crosley giving up due to a knee injury. Ryron Gracie earned his black belt in 2003 from the hands of his grandfather, Grand Master Helio Gracie, after his victory at the Gracie International Open.

Ryron on social media:

Gracie Academy Overview

Jethro Alcuaz – Magic Black Belt

Jethro Alcuaz is my guest on today’s The Travel Wins weekly podcast. Jethro is an illusionist, performing magic and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We talk about his efforts traveling to different states performing magic. Some of his tricks need to be seen to be believed. We also discussed some of the similarities between performing magic and training in Brazilian jiu jitsu. Needing similar attributes to be proficient at both disciplines learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu reminded Jethro of learning a magic trick for the first time.

Jethro Alcuaz on social media:

Jethro’s listening choice while traveling for work is:

Reggae music, but it really depends on my mood.

Click here to see other guests choices for listening while traveling

Jethro Alcuaz Background

Jethro is available for corporate and special events to help create a magical and entertaining evening. His magic is enjoyed by audiences of all ages and is full of comedy, audience participation, and more!

Please browse through his website to find more information. Make sure check back frequently as more updates are added with video, press, and photos!

Illusionist and Prestidigitator, JETHRO enhanced his knowledge in magic when he graduated at Chavez Studio of Magic in La Verne, California under the instruction of Dale Salwak.

Creating a different style in magic that is truly Mind-Blowing, Entertaining and lots of surprises keeps his audiences off their feet. He likes leaving them with a sense of wonder. “HOW DID HE DO THAT?” Question on their minds after watching the show.

JETHRO can entertain his audiences of all ages. The show involves lots of audience participation. Performing his pure sleight of hand manipulation act done with cards, coins, balls, sexy show girls and mind-blowing Vegas style illusions before your very eyes.

Available for Private Parties, Corporate Events, Holiday Parties, Casinos, Stage, Close-Up magic and Strolling.

5 for Friday with Jethro Alcuaz

Jethro Alcuaz is my guest on today’s “5 for Friday”. Jethro is an illusionist, performing magic thru out California, Las Vegas, New York and Hawaii. Hopefully he will get a chance to perform in the Philippines soon. Utilizing both street magic as well as production shows makes Jethro a well rounded magician. Make sure to check out his social media links below.

I talk to Jethro about how he travels with his gear and some of the fun places he has already performed in. Make sure to listen to the full episode on Monday so you can hear how he recently received his black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I asked him how learning a martial art is relative to learning illusions for his magic show.

I know 2018 was a great year for him, receiving his black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu and getting married so I hope 2019 turns out to be a great year for him as well.

Jethro Alcuaz on social media:

Jethro Alcuaz Background

Please browse through his website to find more information. Make sure check back frequently as more updates are added with video, press, and photos!

Illusionist and Prestidigitator, JETHRO enhanced his knowledge in magic when he graduated at Chavez Studio of Magic in La Verne, California under the instruction of Dale Salwak.

Available for Private Parties, Corporate Events, Holiday Parties, Casinos, Stage, Close-Up magic and Strolling.

Marcus Peterson- Prove Yourself Right

Today’s The Travel Wins podcast welcomes Marcus Peterson, MBA. Marcus is an NFL wide receiver (Los Angeles Chargers), model, business owner and entrepreneur.

His upbringing in Inglewood, California at a very small school made him realize his need to work hard and appreciate everything that happens to him is for a reason. He went on to play football in college at Seton Hill and then traveled to England where he received his MBA. While living overseas he realized how big the world is and that it doesn’t revolve around the US. We also discuss his apparel business, MP Motivational Brand, and what his future holds for him after his football career is done.

I love the fact that he is using motivational phrases for his apparel. Anyone that is sharing positive vibes to the world needs to be recognized.

Marcus Peterson Los Angeles Chargers Social Media

What The “MP” Brand Represents

“MP” Motivational Brand Apparel, represents for anyone who has ever been over looked, told they couldn’t achieve something, they aren’t good enough, or underestimated. Understanding that there are and will be times in our lives where we will be overlooked and counted out but we can never lose faith or site of our goals. No matter what industry we are in, we all have a story of challenges we endure to achieving success. This notion provides the opportunity to wear our struggles through apparel to ignite our dreams in overcoming the “No’s” in life to becoming living proof of YES!

“MP” apparel is a great concept to remind others and ourselves that when we recognize our “Why” & “Purpose” in life having control of the ending result and can NEVER give up on our dreams. Understanding, that whatever happens, a human being does not have the last word for on our destiny, God does.

Marcus’s traveling music/song/podcast choice is:

RnB, Hip Hop or soft jazz.

I’m more of a mood guy so it could be various hip hop artists or Sade.

Click here to see all of the guests listening choices when traveling.

5 for Friday with Marcus Peterson

Today’s 5 for Friday is with Marcus Peterson. Marcus is an NFL wide receiver, model and entrepreneur. Being a young man from Inglewood, California, who attended a small Christian school playing “8- man” football and was not introduced to the game of football until his 10th grade year of high school. As his passion for the game grew he continued to sharpen his craft on the field and make his dream of becoming a professional football player a reality. Without receiving any Division-1 college scholarships, it was a long shot coming from the odds of his situation. Although, his college career did not pan out as expected, he did not let that diminish his drive for making it to the big leagues staying focused on his (Plan A).

After his collegiate senior year he had the opportunity to train with elite NFL quarterback’s, receivers, and trainers. Marcus’s faith in God & himself lead to signing a contract with an NFL team. He received his MBA while studying and working in London, England. Working as a model and entrepreneur, Marcus is using his positive mindset to grow his motivational apparel company, MP Motivational Brand Apparel.

The full episode will be available on Monday so make sure to come back and be inspired. I’d like to thank Marcus for sharing his story and passion with us.

Connect with Marcus Peterson:

What The “MP” Brand Represents

Transcription

TTW: What were some of the things that stood out when you traveled overseas?

MP: Once you think I understood how small America really was when you’re living here all you think about is like how America is so huge the American impact the population the market is so huge when I was over there it was so small if you have the Chinese and the Japanese market which can double you know for triple the US market yet that UK market the French market alone Germans aspirin so it’s like the world is so cute another thing that point out to me might was time management is key there’s no such thing as enough for instance you wake up maybe eight o’clock seven o’clock and go to sleep boom about 11:00 there’s really no such thing as a point time it’s just I’ve learned that there’s 24 hours in the day yeah it sounds it doesn’t sound like a lot but that that transformation of morning and night to morning and night to 24 hours is very drastic because like you can be sleep here but you know China just waking up you know you have to get that email fill out my signal Thailand was terrible because I was doing my dissertation and trying to build a global brand I’m having to set my alarm clock at 4:00 in the morning because it was 7 p.m. here in Los Angeles so you know if I need to email or get in touch for people in the US or you know in France or in the UAE you know times were different so just understanding that we have 24 hours in a day I will take a nap at like 10 p.m. which is absurd and then going to say that Alexis thing but like everything was just different because there’s so many different time zones

TTW: yeah well yet you know it can prefer my work my day job you know we deal with factories in China Vietnam India and Mexico at the same time so no but you know you start dealing with time zones of different countries and you got to get you know you had deadlines hurt for order cuts and everything else it’s different you know and then you’re dealing with Freight issues from China or India and then you got having cot so yeah you’re right I mean it’s just it’s actually a small world now with technology

MP: yeah exactly and even with that like the dollar fluctuates so low if you know the again when we can be what 85 cent compared and then you know couple days later it could be you know 60 cent so David so you have to look at that as well so everything was just way more advanced when I was able to travel when I came to cultures religions history laws it was just international trade laws and yeah I think that’s why with what you’re trying to do after your NFL career actually getting your MBA in London probably it’s best suited because it gave you that mindset I’ve always looked at it like you know for instant I school to learn Spanish yeah someone rushing help for you yeah so on so my Spanish teacher with african-american he swore dismantle everything it’s been but I think it’s a correlation from running someone who typically is a Latin descent or Hispanic so it’s cut its have a mixed it like that so I learned international business which is called global business there so to learn international business and ordeals internationally kind of made not just more sense that I learn more authentically than I did then I would have probably followed my international affairs in just one market

Curtis Fisher – Fitness, Food, Lifestyle

Here is my podcast with personal trainer Curtis Fisher. Curtis has 20 plus years experience training himself and others to be healthier and maintain fitness levels. He shares his story of clean bodybuilding while working a day job and raising a family. He shares his time constraints and is aware of us travelers reasons/excuses we have when we travel for our work.

I particularly like his tips for exercising on the road without going to a gym. Providing simple exercises while being based in a hotel room is essential and easy.

He also shares how to eat healthier on the road which, at least for me, is often a struggle. For me when I’m home I feel like I can control my food prep and cooking. I struggle sitting in a hotel room wondering where there are good food choices around. Curtis helps by reminding us that most restaurants have better options now and many supermarkets have deli shops and ready to eat meals inside.

If you have any additional questions or want some advice or clarity on a topic discussed, Curtis is more than willing to help and guide you on your way to better health.

Connect with Curtis Fisher:

Curtis’s traveling music/song/podcast choice is:

Rage Against The Machine

Click here to see all of the guests listening choices when traveling.

5 for Friday with Curtis Fisher

Here’s my 5 for Friday with personal trainer Curtis Fisher. Curtis shares some food strategies and supplementation possibilities for us road travelers. I know for myself I’m always trying to eat better when I’m on the road. When I slip up or have to eat something that isn’t the best for me I remind myself that overall I’m still eating better than before and life is about moderation. Hearing that we should cut out processed sugars, breads and that we should plan out our meals better to stay or get healthy are great goals to shoot for and terrific words of advice. He works with all types of people who look to improve their quality of life as well as the advanced athlete.

On the full episode releasing on Monday, Curtis also shares some travel tips for exercise as well as some mindset goals on how to live healthier.

Anytime I can get advice and tips from someone with 20+ year of experience I take it. I might not always listen at the time and I usually alter the advice to my own personal goals……I always appreciate the time and knowledge shared with me and my listeners.

Connect with Curtis Fisher:

Hakeem Valles – NFL to Real Estate

The Travel Wins podcast this week is with recently retired NFL player Hakeem Valles. Hakeem decided to make the career switch from professional football player to real estate investor and public speaker. He came to the self realization that he would not be a franchise player in the NFL and wanted to spend more time pursuing his careers in real estate and speaking while having the time to be with his fiancée and new baby.

In this episode Hakeem shares his thoughts on:

Time management
Being uprooted every year while in the NFL
Balancing time with his family and new careers
The start of raising a child
Being a positive influence to children
The benefits of investing in your future
Using the leverage you have

Hakeem Valles Football to Real Estate on social media:

BIO

Hakeem Valles is a former American football player who is currently a free agent. He played college football at Monmouth and was signed by the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2016.

Early years

Valles was born in the Sicklerville section of Winslow Township, New Jersey.

He played high school football at Peddie School in Hightstown, New Jersey as a wide receiver. He garnered First Team All-New Jersey Prep accolades his junior year. He also spent some time at quarterback and defensive back while at Peddie

College Career

Valles played for the Monmouth Hawks of Monmouth University from 2012 to 2015. He was redshirted in 2011. He majored in Business Administration at Monmouth.

He was a wide receiver from 2011 to 2013. He played in four games in 2012 and 12 games in 2013.

Hakeem converted to tight end during training camp in 2014. He appeared in 11 games, starting nine, during the 2014 season. He caught 18 passes for 255 yards and three touchdowns. He played in 11 games, all starts, his senior year in 2015. He recorded 22 receptions for 236 yards. He was also a team captain as a senior.

He played in 38 games, starting 20, during his college career. He recorded career totals of 40 receptions for 491 yards and three touchdowns

Professional career

Valles was rated the 30th best tight end in the 2016 NFL Draft by NFLDraftScout.com. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com predicted that he would be selected in the seventh round or be a priority free agent. Zeriein said that Valles was an “Intriguing prospect due to combination of size and speed and an apparent willingness to scrap it out as a blocker.” He also said Valles “Has an outside shot of being drafted and might kick around on a practice squad a year or two while he hones his skill at the position

Arizona Cardinals

Hakeem signed with the Arizona Cardinals on May 2, 2016, after going undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft. He was released by the team on September 3, 2016, and was signed to the practice squad the next day. He was promoted to the active roster on October 6, 2016. He made his NFL debut, and first start in Week 5 against the San Francisco 49ers. He played in 11 games, starting 1, during the 2016 season and recorded three solo tackles.

September 2, 2017, Valles was waived by the Cardinals.

Detroit Lions

September 6, 2017, Valles was signed to the Detroit Lions’ practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster on December 26, 2017.

October 6, 2018, Valles was waived by the Lions and was re-signed to the practice squad. He was released on November 7, 2018.

New York Giants

November 27, 2018, Valles was signed to the New York Giants practice squad

His younger brother, Max, also plays in the NFL.

Hakeem’s traveling music/song/podcast choice is:

Gary Vee audio experience podcast

Click here to see all of the guests listening choices when traveling.

“5 for Friday” with Hakeem Valles

I’m excited to share this “5 for Friday” with Hakeem Valles. Hakeem is a real estate investor, public speaker, fiance, and new father, who also happen to have had a successful career in the NFL. After playing several seasons in the NFL Hakeem made the decision to move on to the next chapter in his life on his terms. I reached out to Hakeem on a social media platform after watching a video showing Hakeem speaking to others in a public speaking venue about his decisions to invest some of his football earnings instead of just spending it. I was blown away by his maturity and wisdom at such a young age. He was gracious enough to share his time and I hope we all learn something from his words.

Here is the “5 for Friday” introduction to Hakeem talking about his biggest challenges of time management with the NFL and the “why” he started investing in real estate and public speaking. The full 1 hour episode will be available on Monday at www.thetravelwins.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and share your comments.

Connect with Hakeem Valles:

Jesse Iwuji – Navy and NASCAR

My guest on today’s podcast is Jesse Iwuji. Jesse is an American professional stock car racing driver and officer in the United States Navy Reserve. He currently competes in the NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series in the No. 34 for Reaume Brothers Racing.

“toughest part with the traveling…. sometimes might be just getting enough rest”

Iwuji attended the United States Naval Academy, where he joined the school’s college football and track and field teams; on the former, he was a free safety for the Navy Midshipmen. He graduated from the academy in 2010 and entered the United States Navy as a surface warfare officer, in which he served on the Mine Countermeasures ship Exultant and USS Comstock. After seven years on active duty, Iwuji transitioned to the Navy Reserve.

As a sailor and driver, Iwuji has served as an ambassador for both the military and NASCAR communities. In addition to supporting military philanthropic groups, he is also involved in various NASCAR events supporting the armed forces and veterans.

Jesse Iwuji Navy and NASCAR on social media:

Racing Career

While attending the Naval Academy, Iwuji first expressed interest in motorsports when the Midshipmen visited the Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina before the 2006 Meineke Car Care Bowl, during which the players rode around the track. During his senior year, he started drag racing at Capitol Speedway in Crofton, Maryland, driving a Chrysler 300.

After his graduation, he raced a Dodge Challenger. Four years later, he participated in the Mojave Mile speed trial; for the event, he upgraded his Challenger’s engine to a horsepower of 1,100. With the new engine, Iwuji ran at a speed of 200.9 miles per hour (323.3 km/h), becoming the fifth modern Mopar driver to accomplish the feat at the Mojave Mile. Afterwards, he joined the Naval Postgraduate School staff in southern California, where he was involved in road racing – driving a Chevrolet Corvette – before making the transition to stock cars.

In 2014, Iwuji tested a stock car for Performance P-1 Motorsports at Irwindale Speedway. A year later, he began racing for the team after returning from deployment in the Persian Gulf. He first competed in the Whelen All-American Series, finishing 15th in his debut. He also made two K&N Pro Series West starts that year at Evergreen Speedway, but did not start the race. He later ran the race at Meridian Speedway, finishing 23rd after a crash. In the winter, he ran 34 dirt track races, one of which included a fifth-place finish in a Winged 500cc Outlaw Kart A-main.

Iwuji started competing full-time in the K&N Pro Series West in 2016, driving the No. 36 for Patriot Motorsports Group. That year, he was named to the “Mighty 25: Veterans poised for impact in 2016” list by military website We Are The Mighty. He recorded a best finish of tenth at Orange Show Speedway. At the Utah Motorsports Campus race, he earned the Move of the Race Award, which is given to the driver who gains the most positions in a race. During the year, he also competed in the NAPA Big 5 Late Model Series at Meridian Speedway. Iwuji battled with Todd Gilliland and Salvatore Iovino for the K&N Pro Series West’s 2016 Most Popular Driver Award, but lost to Iovino. He finished the season tenth in the final point standings and sixth the rookie standings.

In February 2017, Iwuji was awarded the NASCAR Diverse Driver Award, which is given to a minority/female driver who “exemplifies outstanding performance both on and off the race track in encouraging awareness and interaction with NASCAR and motorsports”.

Prior to the 2017 season, Iwuji became Patriot Motorsports Group’s primary owner, while former National Football League linebacker Shawne Merriman partnered with the team to serve as owner of the No. 36 car. The two met during a fashion show in Los Angeles promoting Merriman’s new clothing line; Merriman, a longtime motorsports fan, agreed to join PMG. Over the course of the season, Iwuji continued to race Outlaw Karts to develop his racing ability on both dirt and asphalt. In February, he ran his first K&N Pro Series East race in the season opener at New Smyrna Speedway, in which he finished 21^st.

In February 2018, Iwuji tested an ARCA Racing Series car for PMG at Daytona International Speedway in preparation for his series debut in the Lucas Oil 200. For the 2018 season, he intends to focus on competing in ARCA, particularly the larger tracks, in addition to running sporadic K&N East and West races. In August, Reaume Brothers Racing announced Iwuji would make his NASCAR Camping World Truck Series debut at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park in the team’s No. 34 Chevrolet Silverado. After starting 31st, he finished 25^th.

Iwuji returned to Reaume Brothers Racing and the Truck Series in 2019, driving the No. 34 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Jesse’s traveling music/song/podcast choice is:

Rich Dad Poor Dad audio book

Click here to see all of the guests listening choices when traveling.

Dina Parise – Fast and Fun

My podcast today is with Dina Parise. Dina is the President of Dina Parise Racing, as well as a driver, cook, PR person, social media and marketing maestro. Parise is the 2015 IHRA Pro Mod World Champion and is the first female to hold that esteemed title, yet that only scratches the surface. How many former Professional Figure Skating, World Champion Pro Mod Drivers do you know? That’s right! Only one! That is what makes Parise one of the most dynamic figures on the circuit today.

“I will normally get my workouts in at the track in the mornings, I’ll get up a little earlier as I always do a track walk”

Connect with Dina Parise:

Growing up on Long Island, she was a competitive gymnast all through school but her real passion was figure skating. Her ultimate dream was to skate professionally for the World-Renowned ‘Ice Capades’. She took that passion and made her dream a reality, although it almost did not come to fruition! She passed her audition with flying colors, but there was an issue. Parise was told she did not meet the height requirement. In the scheme of things, that did not seem to matter to the gentleman running the audition. He was so impressed with her, he had her ‘adapt’ her height (yes, she lied) on the application, and the rest is history. She then skated, touring with the ‘Ice Capades’ for four years.

Did you ever see something and just know you had to try it? Even if maybe you did not succeed, but you just had to try? Well, that’s just what Parise thought when she began Drag Racing. She had to try it. When your very first time down the ¼ mile is 9 seconds at 146 MPH you know you mean business! Not to mention, she was in her 30’s at the time. There was no looking back from there!

Now in her Pro Mod Cadillac ‘Stella’, she powers down the ¼ mile track in under 6 seconds at over 240 MPH. In her words, “I was born with glitter in my veins and a led foot!” Racing is not just a man’s game as some may think. The most engaging part about it is the fact that in racing, men and women compete equally and are not segregated by gender (unless you are affiliated with F1, but that’s another story).

Something many people do not realize is that Drag Racing circuits and touring Ice shows are quite parallel. Touring with an Ice show consists of traveling week to week from venue to venue. The ice surface changes, but the performer still has their ‘skates’ (to perform with) and ‘sequin costume’s. The fans wait (by the backstage door) for autographs and the children have positive role models to look up to. In Racing, the game is the same although the venue and the equipment may be vastly different. The racers race at a different track (venue) each week. The track surface changes, and racers have ‘Tires’ (for performance) and ‘Fire suit’ (as clothing). When coming back from a run, fans wait to have autographs signed, and meet the drivers. You see, it’s all relative!

DPR has a rich history in giving back to the community on many levels. DPR has always gone by the motto, ‘it’s an accomplishment to get to the finish line first, but the journey getting there is what is most important.’ DPR is very proud to take fan engagement to the next level in the way of programs Parise herself has developed to honor our nations Veterans and Military Members. Creating visibility honoring those who have served this great nation is paramount to DPR.

Having an eclectic background has led Parise into the realm of motivational speaking (not as cliché as it sounds) combined with elite athlete mentorship as well as keynote speaking for various companies and events. Parise has also ventured into the hosting side. Her days as a performer for the Ice Capades honed her skills for promotion, marketing and on-camera work.

“I want people, (especially females) to know they can achieve anything they set their mind to.” Said Parise. “Never let anyone tell you no.”

“Follow your dreams. If you feel the need to try it, then try it! Life is not a dress rehearsal,” Stated Parise “As I always say… In life you get one ticket, and I’m using mine until it expires!”

Dina’s traveling music/song/podcast choice is:

Podcasts – Ed Mylett, Dee Snider “I Wanna Talk”

Music – Spotify; Queen, Def Leppard, Billy Joel, Elton John, etc.

Click here to see all of the guests listening choices when traveling.

Angela Ruch – NASCAR and Adoption

My guest on today’s podcast is Angela Ruch. Angela is a NASCAR driver, wife, twin sister and soon to be Mom. Her recent success at Daytona International Speedway (Top 10) and Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Top 20) in the NASCAR Gander Outdoor Truck Series will only add to the 2019 highlights for the Ruch family. Angela speaks about her hectic work/life schedule all while getting ready for the birth of their adoptive son. I appreciate Angela giving me a little bit of her day on such an important time in her life and wish her and her family continued successes.

“I remember traveling every single weekend as a kid with my dad and Amber. It was always non-stop. We didn’t have time for school dances”

Connect with Angela Ruch:

Angela Ruch Racing Background

She and her sister, Amber Cope, made NASCAR history on October 23, 2010 by being the first twins to compete in one of its top three series. That day they made their NASCAR debut in the Camping World Truck Series in Martinsville, VA. Amber Cope, driving the No. 6 Dodge, finished 26th, while Angela Cope was involved in two incidents within 18 laps of each other early in the race and finished 30th.

The twins began racing in Go-Karts at age 9. They quickly gained attention by winning poles and races year after year. By age 15 they stepped up to late-model race cars—even before they had driver’s licenses.^[1] Angela took 1st place in 2002 at the Lucas Oil Can-Am 150 at the Sun Valley Speedway. In 1995, Angela finished 1st and Amber finished 3rd in the Tri-cities Gold Cup “Yamaha Class”. By 1998, both sisters were PSGKA Gold Cup winners in the “Junior Piston Port”. Both sisters split seat time in 2006 at the ARCA Re/Max Series at Berlin, Gateway, Chicagoland, Milwaukee Mile, and Toledo, Ohio. By 2008, the twins qualified for the ARCA Re/Max Series at Kentucky Speedway, with positions 8 and 15.

She currently competes part-time in the NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series, driving the No. 8 Chevrolet Silverado for NEMCO Motorsports.

Racing Career

Angela and Amber Cope became the third generation of Copes to enter into the world of racing, when, at the young age of nine, the girls’ parents gave them a go-kart for Christmas and thus began their road to NASCAR. Once they began competing locally, the girls made a name for themselves and became the most accomplished go-kart racers in the Greater Puget Sound region. In their seven years of driving, go-karts included 50 first place wins and setting on pole position 20 times in the Pacific Northwest. Angela also set new track records at five of six tracks in the same region.

At the young age of 15, they progressed to late model race cars even before they had their license to drive. In 2000, a very short time after their debut in late model stock cars they instantly acquired national attention when they were featured on TODAY with host Bryant Gumbel.

As Angela and Amber became more experienced and confident behind the wheel, they knew that in order to pursue a career in NASCAR they would have to leave Washington. They moved across the country to Charlotte, North Carolina to start training with their uncle Derrike. The twins put all of their focus into learning the in and outs of professional racing. They traveled with their Uncle Derrike to every Cup race that he went to and became fixtures on the track and in the pit.

In 2006, the twins split seat time at the Automobile Racing Club of America’s (ARCA) Re/Max Series at Berlin, Gateway, Chicagoland, Milwaukee and Toledo, Ohio. In 2008, they qualified for the ARCA Re/Max Series at Kentucky Speedway with positions 8 and 15. The most difficult part of the ARCA Re/Max Series was that they had to share a car. At times, there would be three weeks before one of them would get back into the seat, losing precious learning time; however, it was a great series for the twins performance-wise.

In 2011, Angela competed in four Nationwide Series races. In 2012, she shared the No. 24 SR2 Motorsports Toyota in the series with Amber Cope and Benny Gordon on a part-time schedule. Five years later, now going by Angela Ruch, she made her return to NASCAR’s Xfinity Series at Kentucky Speedway, driving the No. 78 B. J. McLeod Motorsports Chevrolet.

In 2019, Angela returned to the Gander Outdoors Truck Series with NEMCO Motorsports. She finished a NASCAR career best 8th at Daytona, her first lead lap finish and the second highest ever for a female in the Truck Series.

Valerie Thompson – Worlds Fastest Female Motorcycle Rider

My podcast guest today is Valerie Thompson, America’s Queen of Speed. Valerie is the first female rider over 300 mph, earning the title of “World’s Fastest Female Motorcycle Racer.” She posted a new top speed record of 328 mph in 2018 at the DLRA Speed Week competition in Southern Australia. Valerie talks about the difference between traveling in the States versus internationally with a team, trailers, equipment and dogs all while trying to stay focused on riding a motorcycle 300+MPH, hopefully 400+MPH next time.

“We take our Bonneville very serious…..for us it takes a whole year for all of the preparation, our team is working on the motorcycle two times a week. We’ve got a team of 18 people but not all 18 are working on the bike because everybody has a certain project that they do on the bike.”

A Quick Bio

She posted a new top speed record of 328 mph in 2018 at the DLRA Speed Week competition in Southern Australia piloting Denis Manning’s and John Jans Team “7” Racing streamliner.

Valerie is an 8-time land speed record holder with membership in seven different 200 MPH Clubs, one 300 MPH Club and lifetime membership in the famed Bonneville 200 MPH Club. Thompson was inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018. Valerie’s quest to become the world’s fastest motorcycle racer is the subject of P-51 Pictures’ and MN8 Films’ upcoming feature documentary, Rockets and Titans. Her many racing accomplishments have earned Valerie the moniker of “America’s Queen of Speed.”

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to ride a motorcycle 300+mph or want to hear about the aftermath of crashing at 300+mph you need to give this episode a listen. Valerie shares some great insights on what it takes to prepare for a long term goal that takes years to prepare for and only last minutes.

Valerie Thompson, Queen of Speed, on social media:

Pete Koch – Fitness, Acting and Football

My guest on today’s podcast is Pete Koch.

Pete was a defensive end who played five seasons in the National Football League, for the Cincinnati Bengals, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Los Angeles Raiders. After his football career ended he decided to stay in Los Angeles and started his acting and modeling career.

Always staying in shape Pete added personal trainer to his resume helping people get and stay into shape, including some celebrities. You can follow Pete on his website at www.petekoch.com.

It was great listening to Pete share some stories and he provided some key tips for us business travelers to stay in shape while we travel the roads and skies.

Connect with Pete Koch:

“Make sure you get moving, at the very least you have accomplished something”

Pete’s BIO

YouTube interview show host, actor, fitness expert and retired NFL defensive end. Creator and Host of ‘Breakin’ It Down With Pete Koch’ a YouTube based talk show designed to inform and entertain audiences by interviewing thought leaders and leading experts in sports, entertainment, fitness and popular culture.

Born on Long Island, NY Pete began playing contact football at the age of seven and didn’t stop for twenty years.

Along the way he captained his winning New Hyde Park High School team, then his University of Maryland team to the ACC Championship and appearance in the prestigious Citrus Bowl. Pete received All ACC and All-American Honorable Mention honors. Pete was a First Round selection (sixteenth overall) in the 1984 NFL Draft; selected by the Cincinnati Bengals. Pete spent four years with the Kansas City Chiefs, notably starting at right defensive end in their playoff run of 1986. Pete wrapped up his six-year NFL run with the Los Angeles Raiders teaming with future Hall of Famers Howie Long, Marcus Allen and Mike Haines.

Upon retirement from the NFL, Pete transitioned into a successful fitness modeling and acting career starring alongside Clint Eastwood in Heartbreak Ridge, Burt Reynolds in Heat and Evening Shade, Patrick Dempsey in Loverboy and others totaling more than 120 Hollywood productions.

Throughout the years, Pete has remained deeply committed to maintaining his strength, flexibility, conditioning and overall health through regular workouts. A natural curiosity and commitment to ongoing education, drives Pete’s continuous research in the field of Athlete Performance. Self preservation factors into the zeal Pete brings to his studies and training, initiated by five orthopedic surgeries (due to 20 years of contact football). Pete’s early exposure and relationships with internationally renowned strength and conditioning experts Dr. Fred Hatfield and Frank Costello motivated him to continue his exploration of cutting edge training methods and techniques. He successfully rehabilitated from two spine surgeries, which helped him to solidify his ideas on the importance of spinal stability/core conditioning.

In 2004 Pete Developed a system of training that he calls Functional Advanced Sports Training or FAST, a melding of numerous scientifically proven training methodologies to optimize neuromuscular control and maximize athletic performance. Pete was then called on to direct the training of a number of Hollywood luminaries including Tobey Maguire, Joseph Fiennes and Academy Award winner Benicio Del Toro. Pete is currently certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a Sports Fitness Specialist and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

His FAST Company trains people of all ages and levels of physical condition to help them achieve their fitness and conditioning goals. A University of Maryland graduate, Pete remains committed to ongoing education and research in a lifelong commitment to maximizing human performance and health in people of all ages.

Landon Turner – NCAA, NFL and After

My guest on today’s show is Landon Turner. Landon played for the New Orleans Saints the past two seasons and is now on the Carolina Panthers roster for 2019. He played college football at University of North Carolina where he played all 4 years. Landon’s senior year ended as the team captain, 1^st Team All-American and he won the Jim Parker Trophy as the best offensive lineman in the country. After two years in the NFL and starting his third year for the Panthers we discussed the differences between traveling as a college player and the NFL.

“The hard part of being a college athlete is not having the opportunity to take advantage of internships and getting to know people”

We also discussed the role being a full time college athlete being a hindrance against getting job or intern experiences while in college putting the players behind their classmates that don’t have to spend so much time as an athlete.

Connect with Landon Turner:

College Career

After redshirting his first year at North Carolina, Turner saw action in twelve games in 2012. He served as a backup his first eight games, before replacing an injured Brennan Williams at right guard for the final four games of the season. He would remain a starter throughout his four years. In his junior year, he was named 3rd team All-ACC by the media. As a senior, he was named consensus 1st-Team All-ACC and 1st Team All-American by the Associated Press (AP) and won the Jim Parker Trophy

Professional career

New Orleans Saints

Turner was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent following the 2016 NFL Draft.

On September 2, 2017, Turner was waived by the Saints and was signed to the practice squad the next day. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Saints on January 16, 2018.

On September 1, 2018, Turner was waived by the Saints.^[9] He was re-signed to the practice squad on October 24, 2018, but was released three days later.^[10]

Minnesota Vikings

On October 30, 2018, Turner was signed to the Minnesota Vikings practice squad. He was released on November 8, 2018.

Carolina Panthers

On December 19, 2018, Turner was signed to the Carolina Panthers practice squad. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Panthers on December 31, 2018