I’m writing this with chili simmering on the stove and rain at the window, the kind of weather that makes you pause and think about what’s next. So here it is: I've just become a travel advisor with Fora Travel, and somehow, it feels like everything I’ve been doing has led me right here.

🌧️ Chili, Rain, and What’s Ahead

Right now, it’s Halloween, and for the first time ever, it’s raining.

Growing up in Alaska, I was used to snow (and freezing temperatures!) on Halloween, and honestly, snow is much easier to handle than rain. So wish me luck as I juggle candy bags, a stroller, and try to stay dry!

(Debra from the future here: We did survive Halloween. Lucky for us it only rained during the first part of trick-or-treating and then stopped for the much longer 2nd half. We were able to come home, throw the wet clothes and costumes into the dryer, and eat some nice warm chili! And the boys still scored enough candy 🍬)

And while the rain falls outside, I’ve been thinking a lot about the things starting to take shape. After giving myself permission to rest, to just be fallow for a bit, I feel ready to start creating again.

It’s funny that this is all happening as we head into winter, but the timing feels right. The ideas are sprouting.🌱

✈️ Part One: Becoming a Travel Advisor

I’m officially a travel advisor with Fora Travel, a new kind of travel agency that has been incredible to work with.

And yes, I can already hear the question: You just finished a doctorate, and now you’re a travel advisor?

It makes perfect sense, I promise.

My doctoral research explored transformational learning through travel, the kind that changes how we see ourselves and the world. Now, I get to help others experience that same sense of discovery.

So whether you’re dreaming about Italy, planning a family getaway, or mapping out an adventure somewhere new, I’d love to help. Fora has an amazing network and a huge resource library, and if I don’t know something yet, I’ll find out.

If you’re planning a trip, big or small,

👉 Plan your trip with me through Fora Travel

Let’s make your next trip unforgettable…meaningful, seamless, and designed around you.

🌍 Part Two: Bringing Back the Virtual Tours

This part feels especially close to my heart.

For my doctoral research, I created an online virtual tour of Benin to see whether transformational learning could happen in a digital space. And it did, beautifully. Through storytelling, shared reflection, and real cultural moments, people walked away changed.

Now, I’m bringing those tours back for:

✨ Travelers preparing to visit West Africa

✨ People who are curious about Benin and what life is like there

✨ Anyone who wants to explore culture and connection from home

The Virtual Tour of Benin will relaunch in December, and I’ll be sharing details soon.

If that sounds like something you’d love to experience,

👉 Join the Virtual Tour of Benin Waitlist

Be the first to experience Benin through story, culture, and reflection…all from home!

🌿 Part Three: Building Hello West Africa

And finally, the big one: Hello West Africa, the tourism business I’ve dreamed of building for years.

It’s happening. Slowly, carefully, but it’s happening.

The plan is to create a 12-day tour of Benin, starting in Cotonou and ending near our home in Dassa. Guests will experience a taste of city life, explore cultural and historical sites, and then settle into the rhythm of daily village life, sharing meals, stories, and connections.

Our home in Benin will be the heart of it all. It needs a few renovations and additions to welcome guests, and we’re currently looking to raise about $300,000 in initial capital for construction, solar power, and hospitality spaces.

I’m working with the Small Business Administration in Bellingham, as well as some amazing mentors that I’ve gained throughout the years. Honestly, if you are ever starting up a new business, I would highly recommend looking up your local SBA. The support is fantastic!

💫 How It All Connects

Becoming a travel advisor helps me understand what travelers are looking for.

The virtual tours incorporate storytelling and reflection, giving people the opportunity to discover West Africa without leaving home.

And Hello West Africa ties everything together, creating in-person transformational travel that builds understanding and connection across cultures.

A couple of newsletters ago, I was uncertain.

Now, I feel grounded and excited.

There’s still a lot to figure out, but this is the space where I thrive…forward is a pace, as they say in the running world. I’m so happy to be back in my element!

☕ Until Next Time

Thanks for reading and being here with me as I share this new season with all of you!

If you enjoyed this, consider sharing it with a friend who loves travel or transformation. That’s how this little community grows.

Until next time,

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