Rhythm & Roam with Benef, Paul, & Trecia

What started as a birthday getaway for Trecia became an unforgettable journey through Minnesota filled with surprise, culture, and music. From first impressions of Minneapolis to connecting with the spirit of Prince at Paisley Park, every moment revealed something new and unexpected. The trip blended travel, history, and creativity into an experience that deepened her connection to both place and...

If you’ve ever wondered whether to sip whiskey before beer, or if Ireland is more than shamrocks and stereotypes, this episode has your answer. Benef and Paul touched down in Dublin expecting rolling green hills, endless pints, and postcard-perfect pubs. What do they have? A crash course in Irish culture that challenged every travel cliché. From the Jameson vs. Guinness showdown to discovering wha...

What does it mean to come home after decades away? In this episode, Paul takes us to Negril, Jamaica, where the air is rich with jerk seasoning, reggae drifts across the breeze, and every laugh carries echoes of childhood. It’s been more than 30 years since he last touched the soil his parents once called home. Now, after building a life in Paris, he returns to reconnect with the sounds, flavors,...

This Rhythm & Roam episode is based on our personal experiences of the cleanest and dirtiest cities we've visited. We spill the tea (and maybe a little sanitizer) on the cities that wowed us with their gleaming charm and the ones that left us clutching our Lysol wipes. It’s not just about grime and glamour, though—we dig into how culture, history, and even climate play a role in a city’s “clea...

Grab your earbuds and your Eurail pass—we’re going global with class credit. In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, we chat with our friend and her teenage son, Patrick, who recently jetted off on a high school trip abroad. But this isn’t just another "student tour with matching T-shirts" story. Patrick, who is deaf and uses a cochlear implant to hear, shares what it was like to explore centuries-o...

We catch up with Anjie, whose passport has been on beast mode lately—Paris, Dubai, and a trek up to Mount Everest Base Camp. But this isn’t just a highlight reel of globe-trotting glam. We dive into why she took on Everest, how it stretched her physically, mentally, and spiritually, and what it really means to evolve through travel. From sipping espresso near the Eiffel Tower to gasping for air in...

In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, we sit down with travel-savvy real estate pro Kimberly Plourde of EXIT Realty Central in Norfolk, Virginia, as she shares her epic mission: to explore all 50 U.S. states and 7 continents before hitting 50. From balancing closings to catching flights, Kimberly breaks down how she turns bucket list dreams into booked itineraries—with tips on travel hacking, time...

We break down what sustainable travel actually is (and what it’s not). We get into the three pillars — environmental, cultural, and economic — and how true sustainability means supporting local communities, respecting ecosystems, and understanding your impact beyond Instagram likes. It’s more than carbon offsets and tote bags — it’s about shifting how we think, spend, and move in the places we vis...

A Passport Knuckle Ride isn’t your typical travel guide—it’s a mindset shift for the modern traveler. Packed with real talk, cultural gems, and unfiltered lessons, this book goes beyond flights and hotel bookings. It dives into the why of travel: growing through discomfort, embracing cultural clashes, and navigating those "uh-oh" moments with humor and grace. Perfect for both meticulous planners a...

In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, we sit down with #ChrishanWright—creator of #BlaxitGlobal—to talk about what it means to seek joy, freedom, and identity abroad as a Black woman. From her reflections on the Harlem Renaissance to unpacking the emotional shifts of leaving the U.S., Chrishan shares her journey of healing, growth, and redefinition. We explore freedom outside U.S. borders, how Ame...

The Rhythm & Roam Team dives headfirst into the unspoken (and often broken) rules of flying. Flying dos and don’ts take center stage in this hilarious and painfully relatable episode. We’re calling out everything from seat recline showdowns to unsolicited foot freedom at 30,000 feet. Whether you're a frequent flyer, occasional adventurer, or planning that next big trip—this episode unpacks the...

Is American friendliness just... extra? In this episode, we unpack the cultural clash between U.S. social vibes and friendship norms around the world. From fake smiles to big energy, we’re asking: Are Americans doing too much? Is that friendliness real—or just rehearsed? Too loud, too proud, or just misunderstood? Is the U.S. personality more reality TV than real life? Join us as we get real about...

Traveling with pets is a different adventure filled with cuddles, chaos, and unexpected challenges. In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, we explore the joys and challenges of traveling with pets, the cultural attitudes towards animals across different countries, and why some demographics are likelier to bring pets along than others. Plus, we’re spilling travel hacks for pet parents who want to ro...

In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, hosts Benef, Paul, and Trecia explore the origins and meaning of Spring Break. Comparing cultural practices and perceptions in the U.S. versus Europe. While Americans often embrace energetic parties and beach destinations, Europeans typically favor quieter, culturally rich experiences tied to historical or religious events. Through personal stories and thought...

Ever thought about packing a bag, booking a ticket, and heading off alone? Scary? Exciting? Maybe a little of both? In this episode of Rhythm & Roam, Benef, Paul, and Trecia dive into solo travel—the joys, the challenges, and those unforgettable “I-can’t-believe-I-did-this” moments. Whether you’re dreaming of your first solo adventure or a seasoned solo traveler, we’ve got stories, tips, and r...

If you have recently purchased a plane ticket and looked closely at the receipt, you may have noticed that most of the fare is fees and surcharges. From sneaky hotel fees, airport departure charges, and international surcharges, tourist taxes can quickly increase. In this episode, Benef, Paul, and Trecia discuss these charges and why they exist. Dig into how these fees fund everything from better...

Why does medical care cost less abroad? Did you know medical care abroad sometimes costs a fraction of what you'd pay at home? Whether traveling for a vacation, working abroad, or exploring healthcare tourism, understanding how to access quality care is crucial. In this episode, we’re navigating foreign healthcare. We’ll explore treatment, discuss what seems daunting, and share some stories

Are you tired of feeling exhausted and uninspired by travel? Do you find yourself stuck in a rut, visiting the same old tourist traps and feeling like you're just going through the motions? You're not alone! In this episode, Benef, Paul, and Trecia talk about travel burnout - what it is, how to recognize the signs, and most importantly, how to overcome it. We're sharing our top tips to help you fa...

Join Benef, Paul, and Trecia as they kick off the New Year with exciting adventures in culture and travel. In this engaging episode, they chat with Heather Courtney, an inspiring American expat and founder of "Black In Portugal." Heather reveals the vision behind her organization and how it creates a vibrant community, fosters meaningful connections, and promotes a true sense of belonging for Blac...

We discover the surprising history behind Dutch Blackface at Christmas, a tradition that has sparked controversy and debate. Each year, the arrival of Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas) brings out Zwarte Piet, often portrayed with blackface makeup, bright costumes, and exaggerated features. From its origins to its modern-day implications, we delve into the cultural significance and criticisms surrounding...

We reminisce on past family road trip adventures and discuss why road tripping can be a great way to explore the best a country has to offer. From making lasting memories to discovering hidden gems, road trips offer the perfect opportunity to connect deeper with family and friends. And don’t forget to check out our other episodes for more travel inspiration, tips, and cultural exchanges – because...

Benef, Paul, and Trecia talk with Dr. Angela Kingdon (Autistic Culture Podcast) about how to travel with autism or with someone who is autistic. Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or car, understanding how to prioritize emotional regulation and create a sensory-friendly environment is key. The trio discuss communication strategies for better understanding autistic people and learn about “th...

Benef, Paul, and Trecia host special guest Roya Fox, IG, Tikok, and YouTube digital creator, who describes the life-changing cultural exchanges that inspired her love of travel. The trio explore personal travel stories, share what fuels the obsession with adventure, and discuss how connecting with locals makes each trip more meaningful. Tune in, and let’s break down the thrill, frustrations, and j...

We dive into the vibrant and often misunderstood Romani culture with an interview with two Romani women. They explore the rich history of the Roma and dismantle the stereotypes associated with this group of people. This episode inspires a deeper understanding of the cultural appropriation, systemic racism, and persecution of the Roma, as well as their perseverance and resilience. Romanistan Podcas...

Benef, Paul, and Trecia dive into the heart of Africa through the experiences of Apostle Willie. Born and raised in Africa, he breaks down common myths about the continent, giving a fresh perspective on daily life, culture, and the challenges faced by many Africans. This episode is more than just an interview; it’s a journey into the heart, beauty, and complexities of African communities told firs...