WILD Mag #5 - March 2024: Antarctica!

ISSUE 05 I MARCH 2024

SIX-STAR NISEKO

ANTARCTICA! INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

SURFING BALI ASPEN CHIC M1NT DUBAI

MANDALA MEDLEY

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MUSTANG VALLEY

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THE SWAN BINGIN

VOLUME 5 / MAR 2024

UBA

Founder

Chief Marketing Officer

Rhonda Swan

Brian Swan

Editor In Chief

Administrative Director

Nigel Simmonds

Starrwyn

Creative Director

Head of Publishing

Stuart Sullivan

Amara Becirovski

Graphic Designers

Publishing Director

Dave Abejar, Adi Mika

Diandini Putri

Writers

Client Concierge

Antonia Stanton,

Marie Pacquingan

SIX-STAR NISEKO

Hanalei Swan

WILD Magazine is published by the Unstoppable Branding Agency, a forward-thinking public relations and branding company based in Bali with influence and followers internationally.

UBA utilizes storytelling, SEO, and brand messaging to grow its clients’ personal branding.

It employs experts from all over the world (from countries such as Malaysia, New Zealand, Germany, the UK, Singapore, 4

ISSUE 05 I MARCH 2024

WILD Magazine

ANTARCTICA! INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

SURFING BALI ASPEN CHIC M1NT DUBAI

MANDALA MEDLEY

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MUSTANG VALLEY

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THE SWAN BINGIN

ANTARCTICA! Image: www.katemilesphotography.com © No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

France, America, and more) in related fields such as digital marketing, graphic design, UI/UX, and content production as well as publishing. For its employees, degrees are not the prerequisite – instead, it is experience, knowledge, and skill which matter to the company.

Unstoppable Branding Agency was founded upon Rhonda Swan’s firm belief in the importance of empowering women everywhere.

As a child, Rhonda grew up in a turbulent home and struggled with her self-image and an eating disorder that lasted for almost 10 years.

When she overcame her struggles, Rhonda realized that she wanted to help other women achieve the same success. The drive behind the Unstoppable Branding Agency is to empower women by showing them that unleashing their voice is of paramount importance in order

to attain success.

This is the fifth issue of WILD Magazine, a publication which seeks to leverage the company’s faith in empowered women and their partners across all countries and nationalities.

We feel privileged that you are taking the time to read our publication, it makes what we do so worthwhile.

5

VOLUME 5 / MAR 2024

WELCOME WELCOME to WILD Magazine Issue #5! This month we are coming to you live from the Antarctic aboard the fabulous ship World Navigator courtesy of Insider Expeditions. And what a trip it’s proving to be.

We’re surrounded by the most incredible people, all leaders in their fields, many of whom we have featured in this magazine. Please take the time to check them out, I’m sure you will agree that the talent, mental resilience, determination and passion they all possess is both inspirational and educational. I know that I am looking forward to hearing what they have to say – especially around the issues of climate change, resourcefulness and the spirit of adventure, all of which are on obvious display in these incredible surroundings. What a privilege it is to be able to experience such comfort and company in what remains one of the least visited places on earth. May we all offer our gratitude to this planet, one which treats us with such vibrancy and life, and which sadly is all too often overlooked in the race for human advancement. Let’s remember that we are not owners of this place, but merely custodians of it. It’s our mission to keep it as beautiful and plentiful as possible for future generations. WILD Magazine will be relentless in its pursuit of this. Because I believe if it’s worth making a brand, it’s worth making a responsible brand – one that resonates with the vibrations and challenges of our times. Be unstoppable! – Rhonda Swan.

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would you like to be a

AUTHOR? Author applications for

2025 ARE BEING ACCEPTED NOW!

Share your story with the world & be one of the next Wild authors in 2025

LEADERSHIP EDITION w w w.w g w b o o k . c o m

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CONTENTS

80 20

BILL BENSLEY

ANTARCTICA!

Bill Bensley talks to WILD

Standout architect and designer Magazine about his vision and

It is Earth’s fifth-largest continent

design execution for the Shinta

and is covered almost completely

Mani Mustang lodge in a former

in ice. And yet it remians

forbidden kingdom in Nepal.

home to an incredible array of

88

14

HEATHER PLAMPIN

RHONDA SWAN

She nearly lost it all ... then hit

Rhonda needs very little

business that today manages a

introduction. As the publisher of

portfolio of 80 properties and turns

WILD magazine and the Women

over upwards of $16 million..

the ground running with a rental

Gone Wild book series, she remains

A Maverick Mama’s Journey from South Africa to Mauritius via Taiwan.

8

Aspen is the jewel in the crown of America’s ski world and one that comes with a glittering reputation

It’s all about community and connections at Asia’s most exciting private members clubs by the Mandala Group. Join them in Singapore, Bali or Japan.

among the rich and famous. WILD

106

84 WHAT’S YOUR EVEREST? We all have notions of what is and

MENTAL HEALTH

isn’t possible. Until the 1920s,

In the tapestry of human

insurmountable. In 1953, Edmund

relationships, we all tread the delicate path of seeking

Everest was considered Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay proved everyone wrong.

connection, writes our correspondent Kavi.

the Unstoppable force behind her

UNICORNS

ASPEN!

the slopes this season.

planets for millions of years.

102

48

MANDALA

takes a look at what’s on and around

wildlife that has roamed our

successful agency UBA.

68

110 MENTAL HEALTH Hanalei Swan shows us what lies beneath the surface with a compelling piece about the emotional tides that subsist within all of us.

82 116 CREATING CAPITAL

NAMGYAL SHERPA Climbing is in Namgyal’s blood, as he tells us here in this moving tribute to his mother and his

Kortney Murray empowers women with a resource-based initiative that helps entrepreneurs achieve their goals..

personal vision for lodges in Nepal.

Bali’s Leading Beauty Clinic Anaya Aesthetics provides high-end, world class procedures that enhance your natural assets and beauty.

Botox, Filler, Skinboosters, Exilis Ultra 360, Emsculpt, Facials

Anaya Aesthetics @anaya.aestheticsbali Jl. Raya Kerobokan No.10, Kerobokan Kelod. Bali 80361, Indonesia Contact us at +62 877-7611-1110 9

9

10

CONTENTS

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32

60

RUGBY ROYAL

THE SWAN BINGIN, BALI

Sir Graham Henry is widely

16

LIFE OF BRIAN

regarded as rugby’s most

Former robotics engineer Brian

Zealand’s All Blacks to World

Entrepreneur and DJ Spencer Tarring is

Cup victory in a tenure that

Dubai bound with his latest upcoming

is unrivalled in the sport.

venture M1NT, a superclub with a

Swan has embraced change as part of life, today mixing big

notable coach, having led New

difference – it’s owned by the people

wave surfing with his work in

FLORA FORWARD John Flora, the founder of Orvino Wines and Flora Foods, stands as a testament to entrepreneurial spirit

30 WONDER & WANDER Sarah and Steve Pirie-Nally are the visionary duo behind the socially conscious, innovation, design and travel company Wonder and Wander.

and culinary passion.

SURFING BALI The world’s best surf meets the world’s best culture on the Indonesian island of Bali.

reaches its climax with The Swan Bingin in Bali, offering 360-degree views over iconic Uluwatu waves.

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44 VALET STAYS

SEASONS NISEKO

Extreme sports atheltes Jess &

Seasons Niseko is the six-star vision

short-term rental management

of former investment banker Mike

company offering turnkey

Alexander, whose passion for the

services to airbnb owners –

finer things has spilled over into a

worldwide.

Cody Russell run Valet Stays, a

remarkable property in Japan’s best

66 54

A remarable personal journey

who frequent it.

Bali as an entrepreneur.

118

SPENCER TARRING

BAMBU FITNESS Community and fitness intertwine in paradise at Bambu Fitness where Carrie and Will Henke live the healthy life among the trend setters on Bali.

loved ski destination.

98 74 NEPAL! A bespoke adventure awaits travelers to the remote Kingdom of Mustang in Nepal.

UNCONVENTIONAL Jules Schroeder came back from the dead with a mission to live an unconventional life. Today she creates experiences around the world to teach entrepreneurs and thought leaders how to do the same.

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NETWORK NEWS

UBA Launches New Publications Division MAKE A STATEMENT THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES WITH A BESPOKE MAGAZINE FOR YOUR EVENT. THE Unstoppable Branding Agency has

than 30 years and has worked as the editorial

launched a new publications division on the

leader at Tatler Magazine, as well as creating

back of its success with WILD magazine.

publications for the likes of American Express, Visa, and Mastercard, not to mention hotel

“It just made sense,” says UBA founder Rhonda

magazines for The Regent Beverly Wilshire,

Swan. “Everywhere we went with WILD, people

InterContinental Resorts and Bali’s respected

complemented us on the magazine. So we

luxury publication The Yak. Nigel is backed by a

decided to open a new publications division so

team of experienced writers, designers and web

we can make quality magazines for our clients

developers.

as well.”

ISSUE 03 I SEPT 2023

How does it work?

UBA today specializes in the creation of one-off

- Do you have a Blue Chip client that needs a

magazines for high-level events, whether its for

magazine for their leadership event?

seminars, high-ticket coaching or Masterclass

- Do you need a magazine with Masterclass

retreats. Magazines are designed, curated and

content for your high-ticket coaching seminar?

produced for delivery anywhere in the world.

- Create a high-quality magazine for your successful company, curated at every step of the

“Our luxe publications combine high-level

way.

creative design and great photography with intelligent, focused editorial to create

Leave it to us!

compelling magazines that scream QUALITY,”

We walk you through the process, creating

says Rhonda. “We use only advanced printing

and consulting you on relevant, targeted

methods and exceptional paper stock and our

content and individual design that matches

team boasts some of the most experienced

your message. We handle all aspects of the

staffers in the business.”

publication, from design to production, printing and delivery.

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

Editor In Chief Nigel Simmonds who has been

For more details please contact us at https://

creating award-winning publications for more

unstoppablebrandingagency.com

VERA KRETSCHMAR ANGEL INVESTOR

WINE TIME IN THE TROPICS

RIDING THE RED CARPET WOMEN GONE WILD

At the helm of the new division is British

12

MENTAL HEALTH

//

LEARNING TO FLOAT

//

RESET YOUR GOALS

A WORLD OF PUBLISHING POSSIBILITIES.

FEATURE

FROM THE “WOMEN GONE WILD” BOOK SERIES TO THE UNSTOPPABLE BRANDING AGENCY, RHONDA SWAN IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH.

PHOTO BY COSTES PORTRAIT. 14

IN a world where entrepreneurship is the new

named by Forbes as being the top PR & Branding

“Intuition”, is set to launch in June 2024. This

black and women empowerment is at its peak,

firm for entrepreneurs.

eagerly anticipated book will delve into the power of intuition and its role in guiding women

Rhonda Swan stands as a beacon of inspiration for many. Not just an entrepreneur, but a

Women Gone Wild Book Series

towards their true purpose and passions. With a focus on intuitive decision-making and tapping

mother, author, speaker, and coach; Rhonda wears many hats with unmatched grace and

In addition to her work with the Unstoppable

into inner wisdom, “Intuition” promises to be

efficiency. As the founder of the Unstoppable

Branding Agency, Rhonda is also the author of

a game-changer for women seeking to achieve

Branding Agency, one of the top branding firms

the Women Gone Wild book series. This series

greatness in their personal and professional

dedicated to entrepreneurs, and the author

is a collection of real-life stories of women

lives.

of the Women Gone Wild book series, which

who broke free from the constraints of societal

includes a chapter from her daughter Hanalei

expectations and chased their dreams with

But the journey does not end there. The W.I.L.D.

Swan, Rhonda has dedicated her life to helping

unrelenting passion. It is a celebration of the

Series is slated to continue with subsequent

others find their voice, build their brand, and

wild, fearless, and unstoppable spirit of women

installments, including “Leadership” and

unleash their full potential.

all over the world.

“Diversity”. Each book will explore essential

Unstoppable Branding Agency

Rhonda’s intention with the Women Gone Wild

development, equipping women with the tools

aspects of personal and professional series is to inspire and empower women to

and insights they need to lead with confidence

The journey towards becoming ‘unstoppable’

break free from the chains of self-doubt, fear,

and embrace diversity in all aspects of life.

started when Rhonda and her family lost

and conformity, and to embrace their wild side.

everything during the 2008 economic and

It is a call to action for women to own their

The visionary authors behind the W.I.L.D.

financial crisis. Having transitioned from a

power, pursue their passions, and live life on

Series are not only passionate about

corporate role to entrepreneurship just three

their own terms.

sharing their wisdom in the pages of these transformative books but are also available

years prior, she came to the realization that the significance of establishing a personal brand is

As women discover the wisdom and experiences

for speaking engagements and interviews.

frequently underestimated by entrepreneurs.

shared within the pages of Women Gone Wild

As trailblazers in their respective fields,

This crucial insight was the catalyst for her

they’re inspired to chart their own paths

these authors are committed to inspiring and

remarkable recovery from financial ruin

towards financial freedom and success. The

empowering audiences worldwide. Whether

to reconstructing the Unstoppable Family

collective vision of these visionary authors

it’s on stages, virtual events, or through media

Empire in just a few short years. Through

frames a new era of women’s empowerment,

interviews, they are eager to share their

this experience, she not only learned but also

where financial literacy and entrepreneurial

experiences and insights to ignite positive

demonstrated that a robust personal brand is

spirit pave the way for limitless possibilities.

change and empower women to step into their greatness.

the cornerstone of any successful business.

Consequently, Rhonda made it her life’s

Together, the authors have unleashed a

mission to assist others in comprehending and

powerful resource for women seeking to

With the upcoming launch of “Intuition” and

developing their own brands, culminating

embark on their own journeys of financial

the promise of “Leadership” and “Diversity” on

in the founding of the Unstoppable Branding

empowerment. With the book available in

the horizon, the W.I.L.D. Series is set to become

Agency.

bookstores across the USA, including Barnes

a powerful resource for women seeking growth,

and Noble, Target and Wal-Mart they are

empowerment, and transformation. These

The company is not just another branding

igniting a movement of empowered women who

books will serve as guiding lights, illuminating

firm; it is a powerhouse dedicated to helping

are fearlessly pursuing their dreams, making

the path towards success, authenticity, and

entrepreneurs, especially women, build a

significant waves in the women empowerment

purpose.

strong and authentic brand. Rhonda and her

space.

team work closely with clients to understand

www.rhondaswan.com

their vision, values, and target audience, and

The current book in the series is the first

then create a customized branding strategy

installment of the W.I.L.D. (WEALTH.

that aligns with their goals. From creating

INTUITION. LEADERSHIP. DIVERSITY) series,

captivating visuals to crafting compelling

and it is already making waves in the realm of

narratives, the Unstoppable Branding Agency

women’s empowerment and financial success.

www.unstoppablebrandingagency.com

ensures that every aspect of a brand is meticulously curated and resonates with its

Following the remarkable success of the Wealth

target audience. In 2021 her company UBA was

Edition, the next book in the series, titled

15

DUBAI

powerplay FROM TECH TO MUSIC, CLUBS AND START-UPS, THIS SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR IS ON TRACK ONCE MORE WITH A NEW HIGH-END VENTURE – M1NT DUBAI.

“I THRIVE on influence,” says Spencer Tarring, whose bio thus far reads

himself to be talked into projects and sometimes because he’s

like a Ferrari on fastrack. It’s so pumped it’s almost hard to fathom.

misjudged the economic cycle. And then there was Horizen Bar.

Selling tech server company Dedipower Managed Hosting in the UK

“If you have a big ego,” he says, “there’s nothing wrong with that,

for 20 million pounds, he moved to China in 2012 where he became a

because I certainly have one. But in hindsight it’s better to be the

celebrity DJ and Musical Director at what was then probably the world’s

biggest dog at the club by being the best customer. Blow a few grand in

best nightclub – M1NT Shanghai.

one night, instead of investing half a million dollars. Believe me, it will be much less stressful and a much better use of money.”

“I think it’s fair to say I was the most famous foreigner in the city at that point,” says Spencer, who subsequently used his influence to foster a

Spencer Tarring is always striving for success and making a name for

nascent nightlife scene in China and start the music streaming service

himself on the global stage. He’s the founder and host of Lock Stock FM,

Pyromusic.cn. He moved into crypto, using his data center experience

a podcast that features no-holds-barred conversations about business,

to build huge mining facilities in the city, capitalizing on his social

life, and success. With a plethora of experience in entrepreneurship,

media profile along the way. Life was beyond good and he quite literally

encompassing tech startups, fund raising, web3.0, and the music

had it all. “I thought I was a king,” he says. “I thought I could do no

industry, Spencer has a deep understanding of business, how to get

wrong.”

things done, and most importantly executing on a strategy from inception to exit.

He moved fast – probably too fast, says Spencer. With cash to burn in the bank, he invested in Horizen Bar on The Bund in Shanghai. “I put

“Now that I look back I’ve started to realize my skill set is not in the

in around 4 million RMB, which was about $600,000 at the time, despite

actual running of a business,” says Tarring. “It’s definitely in the finding

many people telling me I was mad, including my lawyer.”

of the right person to partner with and filling in all the voids that they need to make the business a successful venture.”

It never made money. “Horizen burned through funds like it was going out of business, which it was. My investment contracts were poorly

A stint in Bali, Indonesia, offered him time to reflect on his successes –

worded and I totally overlooked the business model and plan, and

and his failures. “Bali is a great place to enjoy life, but in the end I just

didn’t do my due diligence. All because I was desperate to own a club

felt it wasn’t the place to rest on my laurels. After a couple of years I

in Shanghai. After 12 months the club closed and all I had from it was a

hungered for the challenge of doing business again on the big stage, and

few good nights out and an extremely bruised ego.”

moved to Dubai. I was surrounded once more by competition, and this drove me back to my roots.”

The Confidence Conundrum

16

Spencer Tarring freely admits that confidence and ego are at the center

The Future Is Minted

of his hits, and his misses. “I have had some big successes,” he says, “but

His confidence levels are once again on the up. “I believe I’m destined to

I’ve also had failures along the way. I think it’s important to recognise

do something bigger,” he says. “I have the confidence that something’s

those failures as they have helped me to better understand who I am.”

going to happen, and if it doesn’t, it doesn’t matter.”

There’s been some property investments that have returned

Incoming in April 2025 is M1NT Dubai. It’s another high-end club, but

handsomely, and some that haven’t, sometimes because he’s allowed

with a difference. It will be the world’s first Shareholder’s Club, says

DRIVEN: SPENCER TARRING

17

DUBAI

ALL HANDS ON DECK: DJ DAYS AND NIGHTS.

Tarring, with up to 400 backers who each get to own a piece of the business.

changes drastically when you own part of the brand, creating an electric

For a relatively small investment, shareholders get full member access and

atmosphere that’s unbeatable.”

dividends from profits.

Also incoming in the third quarter of 2024 is another venture combining It’s microfinance set to deliver an amazing venue and atmosphere, offering

Tarring’s tech skills with entertainment venues. Called Rendezverse, it’s a

exclusivity to investors for $30,000 a share. Given his experience in the

web3.0 tool that matches venues in the UAE directly with consumers. Using

nightlife world, there has been no shortage of interest. “It’s the team who

3D and VR technology, it will offer a service along the lines of Airbnb for

founded M1NT Shanghai,” he says. “We are confident that M1NT Dubai

event spaces. “We’re basically building a directory of venues in the UAE, all

will become a staple of the city’s nightlife scene. We’re offering people the

with 3D and VR solutions. We’ve already got scans of around 1,000 venues

chance to be part of it for what is ultimately a very small investment.”

and we’re hoping to launch within the next two to three months.”

He’s motivated by his past. “Being a DJ is an amazing feeling, largely

Spencer Tarring stands out as a rare individual who successfully combines

because you’re influencing so many people. The biggest thing for me as a

entrepreneurship, innovation, and magnetic charisma. His journey is

person is that I thrive on influence. I like people listening to what I say. Not

marked by tech innovation, energetic DJ performances, and strategic

that I want them to do what I say, it’s not like being a dictator, it’s the ability

investments that make an impact globally. From the lively streets of

to have something important to say and having the ability to get people to

Shanghai to the bustling skyline of Dubai, Spencer’s path reflects a

listen to you.”

steadfast commitment to entrepreneurial excellence while embracing a lifestyle that balances work and play.

M1NT Dubai is set to be an entertainment venue for discerning guests, housing a high-end restaurant and lounge as well as the club. “The

Still, ego and confidence are key to what he does. “Using ego is powerful,”

shareholder structure means it is good both professionally and socially for

says Spencer. “I don’t view it as a dirty word. If it gets off the rails then

each of the owners,” he says. “It just makes sense and offsets the marketing

I trust close friends to pull me up and stay grounded. I also play golf,

budget for their businesses.”

and that certainly keeps it real. Ego and confidence in what I do is most definitely important to me, and with experience I now know how to use and

Having so many owners also affects the atmosphere in the club, says

control it.”

Spencer. “Owning part of the club just elevates your experience of it, especially when you bring a group of contacts and friends. The vibe

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@spencertarringceo

DUBAI: M1NT INCOMING.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

WILD SPOKE TO CARL SHEPHARD, FOUNDER AND CEO OF INSIDER EXPEDITIONS, ABOUT BESPOKE TRAVEL, ANTARCTICA,

antarctica AND WHAT IT TAKES TO BUILD

THE WORLD’S MOST EPIC TRAVEL EXPERIENCE COMPANY.

TAILS OF THE DEEP.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

THIS PAGE: ALL AT SEA; LION’S SHARE. RIGHT: CARL SHEPHARD.

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CARL, can you share with us what initially

We pride ourselves that every single trip is

We are doing more with musicians and sports

inspired you to create Insider Expeditions and

different, curated especially for that community,

celebrities, offering their fans a chance to have

what your original vision was for the company?

and designed to actually be “once in a lifetime”.

a unique VIP, multi-day experience with them,

We are not a massive travel company offering the

actually traveling with them on an adventure and

After college I rode my bicycle across the

same departure to the same place every single

getting to know them as humans, rather than just

country with 30 other graduates as a fundraiser

week. From musical experiences in Antarctica to

getting good seats to a concert or golf tournament.

for Habitat for Humanity. We became such a

sports safaris in Tanzania, we offer adventures that

I think those trips are quite exciting and the

close community, raised hundreds of thousands

no other company is offering or has offered in the

celebrities have said they are some of their favorite

of dollars for affordable housing, and had the

past.

trips as well. We are also doing more and more with social-impact entrepreneurs who are keen to

adventure of our lives. I have been trying to live within that epic cross-section of community,

How does Insider Expeditions address

explore the planet but also come up with solutions

impact, and adventure ever since through group

sustainability and responsible tourism in its

to protect it.

travel experiences.

operations? What are some initiatives you are particularly proud of in this regard?

Reflecting on your journey with Insider

Since the inception of Insider Expeditions, how

Every single one of our trips has an impact

Expeditions, what has been the most rewarding

has your mission evolved? Are there specific

mission, even if our travelers do not know it. We

aspect of leading this company? Are there any

experiences or feedback that have shaped this

annually raise millions of dollars for non-profits

personal lessons or insights you’ve gained

evolution?

and community organizations in the countries

through this experience?

When we started, most of our trips were crafted

where we travel, and make sure that we leave a

Nothing is more valuable than time, and our goal

for university alumni associations, and we still

place better than we found it. We vet all of our

as a company is to have people return from our

love serving that older cohort of travelers. But we

local suppliers for their environmental policies

trips saying that their experience with us was

realize that experiences and connection with the

as well as carbon offset our trips and company

some of the very best days of their life. We are

world and each other is craved across all ages, and

operations on an annual basis. As one very proud

essentially selling joy, connection, time well spent

now we have trips that serve every age and every

example, we have raised over US$1,000,000 for

on an adventure and memories of a lifetime.

budget, from very cheap yoga retreats to high-end

conservation organizations working to protect the

What an honor it has been to have thousands of

7-star expeditions that would be impossible to do

environment, from The Ocean Conservancy to

testimonials over the years that we gave people

on your own.

Save the Manatees.

some of the most rewarding days of their lives, and it continues to make me value my own time as

What sets Insider Expeditions apart in terms of

Looking towards the future, what are your

the experiences you offer? How do you ensure

main goals for Insider Expeditions? How do you

that each expedition is unique and memorable for

envision the company growing or diversifying its

www.insiderexpeditions.com

your travelers?

offerings?

@insiderexpeditions

well.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

THIS PAGE: AMAZING ANTARCTICA. RIGHT: ARRIVING IN STYLE; EQUIPPED FOR ANYTHING.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

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ANCHORS AWAY! ON BOARD THE WORLD NAVIGATOR. AND LEFT: POLAR PLUNGE.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

THIS PAGE: MARCH OF THE PENQUINS (AND OTHER FOLK). RIGHT: ICEBERGS AHEAD.

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INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

WON

W

A

DER

N

D

E

SARAH AND STEVE PIRIE-NALLY CREATE IMPACT-DRIVEN TRAVEL EXPERIENCES THAT HELP SOLVE GLOBAL ISSUES.

ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS THREE.

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R

SARAH and Steve Pirie-Nally are the visionary duo behind the socially

“We take people through these experiences that create real ‘a-ha’ moments.

conscious, innovation, design and travel company Wonder and Wander. The

We’re not asking people to completely change their lives or give up everything

Kiwi/Australian couple have built a successful business by bringing people

they know, instead, we’re inviting them to explore and unlearn fixed ways

together through provocative and innovative immersive experiences and

of thinking and adopt a ‘dragonfly’ mindset – nimble and agile, capable of

encouraging them to think differently about the world around them. Now

changing flight mid-air.”

they have taken on the challenge of organising a stewardship expedition to Antarctica in the hopes of sharing ideas to tackle one of the biggest problems

While some might see the impact as a grandiose concept, the Pirie-Nallys

facing the world right now.

believe it can manifest in various ways, from small incremental shifts in thinking to profound transformations. Sarah says many people think of

Sarah and Steve were first introduced to each other by friends who knew they

impact as an overnight revolution when in fact most of the time change starts

would hit it off because they were both curious and loved bringing people

small and can come from something as simple as a single conversation.

together to start a conversation. After meeting, the duo knew their shared passions had the beginnings of a business, and Sarah says they wanted to

As the company, expands the couple are looking to expand their impact

create something that was impact rather than profit driven.

even further. This March, they plan to lead an extraordinary stewardship expedition to Antarctica, an opportunity for travellers to engage with the

“We started Wonder and Wander seven years ago and we kind of approached

challenges of climate change and conservation firsthand.

it with a bit of patience. We both had experience in innovation, humancentred design, travel and events and we knew we wanted a company which

“The trip to Antarctica is a unique experience to bring together thought

would bring people together to solve problems in a different way, but creating

leaders and change-makers from across Australia and New Zealand together

a company that was more about impact and purpose rather than profit, was at

with some incredible expedition leaders like Peter Hillary and Sir Graham

the time, not the norm, so we had to build things slowly.”

Henry and get all these people on a boat and facilitate some incredible conversations around climate change and allow these business leaders

The couple spent a lot of time defining the values of the business and being

to share their ideas and create a sense of connection to what is possible.

inspired by the sustainable development goals of some of the companies they

We want people to have richer conversations that ripple back into their

were working with within their current roles. It was also important for them

communities, countries, and the world.”

to focus on raising their blended family of five young children.

Sarah says issues like climate change can seem too big to tackle, but being in As the company grew so did people’s perceptions. Steve says these days

a place where you can see first hand the effects something like this is having

impact-driven businesses make a lot more sense to investors and clients alike.

can have a transformative effect on people.

“We believe that travel can be a catalyst for change. Whether it’s walking

“I think there is a lot of fear around a conversation about climate change, and

around Tasmania and gaining new perspectives or embarking on

people don’t really want to talk about what it could mean. Can I still travel?

transformative experiences, travel has the power to get you away from your

Can we ship things across the world? Can I drive to work – there are a lot of

day-to-day routine and create a new perspective, and when you bring the right

unknowns. The curious part of my mind goes to, well, what’s the problem

people together this can be really powerful.”

we’re actually trying to solve? And ultimately at the end of the day, that problem is how do we ensure the survival of our species and the survival of

The couple’s dedication to creating purpose-led experiences caught the

our planet? Those two things don’t need to be solved with a knee-jerk reaction,

attention of big corporations like Australia’s Commonwealth Bank and Energy

instead, we need a whole lot of innovative solutions, and so rather than never

companies AGL and Energy Australia and now the Kiwi arm of their business

jumping on a plane again or selling your car it’s actually about connecting

is catching on with companies here as well.

with ideas and people around the world to come up with more innovative solutions.”

Steve says the rise in interest comes mainly from the fact that Wander and Wonder doesn’t just talk about changing perceptions and thinking, it creates

www.wonderandwander.com

experiences that back that up.

31

INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

rugby royal SIR GRAHAM HENRY NEEDS LITTLE INTRODUCTION. A LEGEND IN THE WORLD OF RUGBY, HE LED NEW ZEALAND’S ALL BLACKS TO WORLD CUP VICTORY IN 2011, TOPPING OFF A STELLAR CAREER IN INTERNATIONAL SPORT.

VISIONARY

SIR Graham Henry stands as a towering figure

laid the foundation for his eventual rise to

inspiration and wisdom for aspiring coaches

in the annals of Rugby Union, his legacy

prominence on the international stage.

worldwide.

understanding of the game. Widely celebrated

Sir Graham’s foray into international coaching

His contributions to the sport were duly

as one of the most successful coaches in the

began in 1998 when he assumed the helm of

recognized in 2012 when he was knighted as a

sport’s history, Sir Graham’s journey from a

the Welsh national team. During his tenure,

Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order

schoolteacher to a rugby luminary is a testament

he orchestrated notable victories over rugby

of Merit, a fitting tribute to his enduring impact

to his unwavering commitment and unparalleled

powerhouses such as England and South Africa,

on rugby and his unwavering dedication to

strategic acumen.

earning widespread acclaim for his tactical

excellence.

etched in victories, leadership, and a profound

prowess and adept leadership.

Yet, Sir Graham’s legacy transcends the confines

His illustrious coaching career is punctuated by numerous accolades, none more prestigious than

Returning to his native New Zealand, Sir Graham

of rugby, his insights and experiences resonating

the Coach of the Year award from the International

assumed the role of defensive coordinator and

across diverse spheres of endeavor. As a sought-

Rugby Board, a title he claimed an unprecedented

technical analyst for Auckland, catalyzing an

after speaker, he delves into topics ranging from

five times. The pinnacle of his coaching prowess

immediate resurgence in the team’s fortunes. His

high-performance environments to team culture,

manifested in 2011 when he masterminded the All

transformative impact caught the attention of the

offering invaluable insights applicable to both

Blacks’ triumph in the Rugby World Cup, etching

rugby fraternity, culminating in his appointment

sports and business.

his name in the annals of rugby history.

as the head coach of the All Blacks in 2004.

In a career defined by triumphs and tribulations,

Sir Graham’s ascent to coaching greatness had

Under Sir Graham’s stewardship, the All Blacks

Sir Graham Henry stands as a paragon of

humble beginnings. Long before he adorned the

embarked on a golden era, characterized by a

resilience, leadership, and unwavering

sidelines of rugby fields, he spent his formative

relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering

commitment to excellence. His indelible imprint

years as a dedicated schoolteacher and principal,

commitment to success. His coaching tenure

on the world of rugby serves as a testament to the

seamlessly blending his passion for education

was defined by a string of triumphs, including a

transformative power of passion, perseverance,

with his burgeoning love for the game. It wasn’t

historic victory over the British and Irish Lions and

and unwavering dedication to one’s craft. As the

until 1996 that he decided to pivot fully to rugby

a dominant display in the IRB World Rankings.

sporting world continues to evolve, Sir Graham’s legacy endures as a beacon of inspiration for

coaching, marking the genesis of a storied career.

Beyond the rugby field, Sir Graham’s influence

generations to come.

His coaching journey commenced with the

extended far and wide, encompassing diverse roles

Auckland team, where he orchestrated a

and responsibilities. From advising the Auckland

Sir Graham Henry joins Insider Expeditions as a guest

remarkable streak of success, guiding them to four

Blues and Argentina’s Pumas to sharing his wealth

speaker to Antarctica.

consecutive NPC titles and clinching triumphs in

of knowledge on esteemed platforms like www.

the Super 12 competition. These early triumphs

therugbysite.com, he emerged as a beacon of

32

INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

A Transformational Mastermind Uniting Brilliant Minds and Leaders in Antarctica, featuring:.

STEVE PIRIE-NALLY

SARAH PIRIE-NALLY

HOST

HOST

A visionary entrepreneur known for his

Global Growth Partner and Founder of She

transformative work in redefining travel

Evolves Community, skilled in HCD, Innovation,

experiences and crafting memorable

Neuropsychology, and Behavioral Science. COO

events. CEO Insider Expeditions.

Insider Expeditions.

SIR GRAHAM HENRY

PETER HILLARY

Adventurer

Founder Models Method

Regarded as one of the greatest coaches

Renowned adventurer, environmentalist,

Entrepreneur, international keynote

in rugby history and knighted for his

and speaker who has scaled Everest and

speaker, and global authority on

contribution to the sport.

completed many other expeditions.

visual models.

Rugby Coach

PROFESSOR SWEE HOON

34

SIMON BOWEN

RHONDA SWAN

University of Tasmania

Business Leader, CEO & Author

Professor of Behavioral Economics, specializing in

Women’s empowerment advocate. CEO of the

cross-cultural factors in socio-economic behavior.

Unstoppable Branding Agency and recognized by

Director of the Tasmanian Behavioral Lab.

Forbes Magazine as a woman of diversity to watch.

INSIDER EXPEDITIONS

DAMON GAMEAU

JULIO DE LAFFITTE

Actor & Director

Founder & CEO, Medigrow

Award-winning actor, director, and

Entrepreneur with an infectious

writer and advocate for environmental

passion for all things wealth,

sustainability.

economics and business.

HAZEL ORTEGA

WASFIA NAZREEN

Master of Miracles & Entrepreneur

Mountaineer & Activist Pioneer. First Bengali and Bangladeshi to conquer the 7 Summits, and K2. National Geographic Explorer & Adventurer.

JULES SCHROEDER

Founder Unconventional Life

Through her counseling center, Hazel has

Ranked by Inc Magazine as one of the Top 27

assisted thousands of injured workers and

Women Entrepreneurs Changing The World.

earned the Global Social Impact Award in 2023.

Musician, author, and event designer.

HANALEI SWAN

Fashion Designer, Speaker, Author, Artist

BRIAN SWAN

Business Leader, CEO & Author

At 16 years old, Hanalei has spoken on stages in Australia,

Brian is a former robotics engineer turned entrepreneur. He is a

Hong Kong, India, London, USA, France & Indonesia –

semi-pro surfer, co-founder of the Unstoppable Branding Agency,

including a Ted Talk in Paris.

and founder of Unstoppable Beard men’s grooming line.

35

JAPAN

WILD MAGAZINE TALKS WITH MIKE ALEXANDER ABOUT HIS PASSION...

SEASONS

SPRING COLORS IN NISEKO. RIGHT: POWDER LIFE IN WINTER.

36

NIS

EKO

...TO BUILD THE WORLD’S MOST TALKED ABOUT RETREAT. WELCOME TO SEASONS NISEKO.

37

JAPAN

WHEN producers at the Netflix show The World’s

generations to enjoy their own music in a variety

hard to find hidden gems, secret locations and very

Most Amazing Vacation Rentals went looking for

of areas in the property. There’s bunk beds for

special people,” says Mike, “so you can discover

locations in Japan, they kept hearing about a

the youngsters, and arcade games in the billiards

and experience the wonder of this incredible part

certain property on the island of Hokkaido.

room. For the adults, there’s a subterranean wine

of the world.” These activities include kayaking,

cellar that stocks the world’s finest vintages, flown

paddle boarding and white water rafting; hiking,

in to match the four seasons on offer in Niseko.

trekking, zip-sliding, horse riding and biking on

Not short of choices in a country rightly famed for

stunning trails rarely trodden. There’s even night-

its gourmet cuisine, unique culture and incredible architecture, they decided to check it out. What

Gourmet food complements the ultra luxury

skiing by torchlight for the intrepid. “This area is

they found was a private 5-bedroom gated

ambiance, and Michelin star chef Sean Mell from

so stunning, not just in the winter months but in

compound nestled in a forest of stunning Japanese

California is on hand to prepare dishes from iconic

the summer too,” he adds.

pine trees, staffed by a Michelin star chef with a

Japanese cuisine to a unique Hokkaido pizza, with

full-time concierge team and a personally adjusted

signature surprises and devilishly decadent treats

If The Residence is too off the scale for your

heated swimming pool.

throughout your stay.

tastes, there is the smaller but equally luxurious

The Residence by Seasons Niseko impressed from

Banking On Winners

Retreat, which also comes with five bedrooms and an indoor Japanese style spa pool, wood log fireplace and outdoor fire pit. “We’re planning

the get go. Perched under Mt Yōtei and surrounded by outdoor decks, vast lawns and sweeping views

Mike Alexander’s journey has been one marked

another project,” adds Mike. “We’re building Asia’s

of mountain ranges and ski fields, the property

by prosperity, owing much to his adeptness in

best apartments here, all with the same sweeping

boasted a 5-zone Sound System complete with

identifying a diverse array of start-up triumphs.

snowfield and mountain views.” Prices for the

Pioneer DJ Decks, fully stocked bar with the very

Notably, he backed Block.one, the globally

apartments will range from US$1.5m for one

best liquors and tap beer. Then there was the

renowned blockchain enterprise celebrated for its

bedroom up to $15m for five bedrooms, each with

billiards table, the eight-seat cinema, authentic

world-beating initial fundraising of US$4.3 billion.

the same level of ultra luxury as the Retreat.

pizza oven and sauna – and the outdoor firepit,

His investment portfolio boasts holdings in

near to the indoor pool.

Seasons Niseko properties, the well-regarded

“I’m doing five-bedroom apartments with wine

11-venue bar and restaurant franchise, Mott 32,

cellars, movie theaters, outside onsens, and

“I prefer the pool temperature at 34.2 degrees,”

and the Mandala Group of properties nestled in

gunbarrel views,” he says. “Some will have proper

says Mike Alexander, the former investment

Bali. Alongside these ventures, he has nurtured

restaurant-style kitchens so guests can bring in

banker who built The Residence, one of two

groundbreaking initiatives such as Ordre, the

chefs to cook for them.”

properties he owns in Annupuri National Park,

world’s premier multi-brand B2B virtual showroom

Niseko. “A certain famous F1 driving champion

platform, and a slew of pioneering Web3

He’s also keen to start promoting Niseko’s non-ski

likes it a bit hotter,” he says of one of his celebrity

enterprises, including BlockTrust. This innovative

seasons. “This is Japan,” he says, “ and there are

guests. “We have quite a few celebrities staying

venture is reshaping the landscape of consumer-

four distinct seasons. As well as the world’s finest

with us. Even the rich and famous need time to get

brand interaction through inventive approaches

powder snow, Niseko offers gorgeous weather in

away from it all, and The Residence gives them the

like tokenization, micro-blogging, and live events.

the summer, with natural forests and stunning mountains. “It is absolutely superb year round,” he

privacy and exclusivity they look for.”

But Niseko is where his heart is, and what gets

says. “It truly is one of the most magical places on

You don’t need to be a celebrity to stay at The

him out of bed. “I did very well as an investment

earth.”

Residence, but the price tag might put off less

banker,” he says, “and I’m very grateful for those

discerning guests. At upwards of $27,000 a night,

years. But anyone who meets me today is surprised

www.seasons-niseko.com

the property sleeps 15 and is designed to feel like

that I spent my life in finance. I should have been

@seasons.niseko

a home. “I started out intending to build a holiday

an entrepreneur from the beginning – building,

home in Niseko,” says Mike, as the powder snow

designing and envisioning Seasons Niseko has

falls on the slopes outside. “What I actually built

been my overarching passion, and one that gives

was a haven for anyone who loves to ski, enjoys

me the greatest satisfaction.”

luxury and values their privacy. I built it originally for myself and my two boys,” adds Mike. “We all

Around Niseko

learned to ski in Niseko, and just fell in love with it.”

The area around Niseko not only overflows with great skiing and snowboarding, but offers other

Family touches abound. There’s a 42-speaker,

undiscovered treasures too, all organized for you

five zone stereo system that allows different

by your chalet concierge team. “We have worked

38

MIKE ALEXANDER: “ANYONE WHO MEETS ME TODAY IS SURPRISED THAT I WAS IN FINANCE.”

39

JAPAN

“This area is so stunning, not just in the winter months but in the summer too.”

WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER OR FALL: THE RETREAT AT SEASONS NISEKO.

40

41

JAPAN

SKI IN, CHILL OUT. RIGHT: THE INDIVIDUALLY HEATED POOL OPENS TO THE SLOPES; BAR-LOUNGE-LUXE; PERUSING THE SUBTERRANEAN CELLAR.

42

43

ALASKA

VALET STAYS EXTREME SPORTS ATHELTES JESS & CODY RUSSELL RUN VALET STAYS, A SHORT-TERM RENTAL MANAGEMENT COMPANY OFFERING TURNKEY SERVICES TO AIRBNB OWNERS – WORLDWIDE.

JESSICA, can you describe the business model of Valet Stays and the range

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in managing Airbnb

of services you offer for Airbnb property management?”

properties, and how does Valet Stays address these issues?

Sure! Valet Stays is a short-term rental (STR) management company founded

Initially, our biggest hurdle was finding reliable cleaners. However, we

in 2022 and based in Alaska, USA. Our company focuses on maximizing

quickly found a solution and teamed up with local cleaning companies that

rental revenue for STR owners without them having to lift a finger. We

specializes in short-term rentals. We also learned that to provide guests with

offer turnkey services that include but are not limited to direct booking on

detailed and accurate information about the properties they are booking, we

our website, strategic marketing, advertising, listing management, SEO

needed to physically visit properties ourselves and perform quality control

optimization, professional photography, meticulous cleaning services,

checks periodically. This lesson has led to improved relationships with our

monthly accounting, reporting, and seamless guest communication.

Clients and a level of trust that only a face-to-face encounter can offer. We have even gone so far as to stock properties for owners while they are out

Being seasoned STR owners ourselves, we know the nuances of property

of state which is something we don’t typically offer as a service. It didn’t

management success. Your property won’t just be on Airbnb, we list

take long to learn that Valet Stays’ unique value proposition was excellent

properties across multiple platforms, such as the Valet Stays website,

customer service, even if it meant going above and beyond the normal

Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Google Vacation Rentals, and

service offering to establish a great start for clients.

more, and integrate them all into one single calendar so we don’t miss a beat. Our goal is to make our clients feel like true VIPs as we handle the

How do you ensure a high-quality experience for both the property owners

intricacies of STR ownership.

and the guests who book through Airbnb?

When we say ‘turn-key’, we mean exactly that. We handle virtually

What sets Valet Stays apart from other property management companies

everything from listing creation to ongoing management and even conflict

in the Airbnb sector?

resolution. We give owners full transparency through personalized user

Valet Stays stands out in the short-term rental sector for a few compelling

accounts where they can view their listings, financials, and calendar in real-

reasons. First off, our focus on exotic travel destinations, such as Alaska

time. I’m proud to say that the biggest solution we offer is peace of mind for

and Bali, sets us apart. Alaska holds a special place in our hearts – not just

owners.

as a destination, but as Cody’s hometown, adding a personal touch to our operations.

Our guests are always happy when they arrive at a clean property stocked with everything they need to feel right at home. With immediate 24/7

What truly distinguishes us are the partnerships we’ve forged with local

support, whether it’s a simple inquiry or a more complex concern, we’re here

adventure companies. We believe in offering more than just a place to

– always.

stay; we’re here to provide unforgettable experiences. To ensure that every property aligns with our commitment to excellence, we implement

What role does technology play in your management process, and have

stringent vetting criteria. This ensures that our guests not only have a

you implemented any innovative solutions for efficiency or customer

stay but an exceptional experience that meets our high standards. We

satisfaction?

believe in personal excellence and this translates directly into our business

Our operations team leverages software that allows us to manage the day-

operations.

to-day operations all in one place. We use calendar integration software, automated messages, market data tools, and price setting tools which allow

44

JESS AND CODY – STAYING WITH THE NARRATIVE.

45

ALASKA

“Summertime is when Alaska truly shines, literally, with the solstice bringing 24 hours of daylight – an experience that can be surprising for guests.” us to scale with ease and ultimately focus on enhancing the experience

also have teamed up with the 2024 Arctic Winter Games team to provide

for clients and guests. We also keep up with the latest AI technology and

accommodations for those traveling to Alaska in March and help owners list

implement it into our systems so we can focus more on client and guest

their properties for this time as well.

satisfaction.

One of the most important things we can do is provide owners and guests

At Valet Stays, we employ price-setting strategies to ensure no money is left

with accurate information about what’s happening in the market, so we

on the table. We adjust prices according to events happening in the area.

make sure to stay on top of this at all times.

When guests book with Valet Stays, they are booking with true locals who have a physical footprint, statewide connections, and a passion for all that

How does the Airbnb market in Alaska differ from other regions, and what

Alaska has to offer. Whether it’s fishing escapades, hunting expeditions,

unique opportunities or challenges does it present?

backcountry rides, or jet skiing to a glacier, our spaces not only embody

Alaska is an incredibly seasonal travel destination full of bucket-list

the beauty of Alaska in their aesthetics but also resonate with the pulse of

activities travelers can only find here, which presents unique opportunities

the land. And a tidbit most folks miss: Valet Stays is owned by two extreme

to tourists. In the winter season, travelers can experience dog mushing, ice

sports athletes and genuine adventure enthusiasts who love curating

skating, and viewing the northern lights. Alaskans even drive their cars

thrilling experiences for others.

across frozen lakes for fun and ride snow machines to work. In the Spring, winter sports are in full swing as snowmachiners and elite snowboarders

Can you discuss how you navigate local regulations in Alaska regarding

and skiers rally through the backcountry on perfect bluebird days for

short-term rentals, and ensure compliance?

extreme adventures you can only experience in Alaska. During the Summer,

Navigating Alaska’s rental regulations at Valet Stays is straightforward.

the hiking trails take you into the sky atop peaks that feel larger than life

In many areas, it’s the Wild West – unregulated and free-spirited. Within

and right up to glaciers that have been around for over 30,000 years. You

specific city limits, where permits play a crucial role, we’ve simplified the

can even see bears and moose roaming around in some areas. In the Fall

process within defined parameters.

months, outdoor enthusiasts have a chance at epic ocean fishing among humpback whales, and hunting is a way of life for most residents.

Here’s the reality – some places might push boundaries with listings in restricted zones, but that’s simply not our style. At Valet Stays, we’re integral

Alaska is known for its distinct seasons. How do these seasonal changes

players in Alaska’s business landscape. We directly engage with city officials

impact your property management strategies?

and actively participate in discussions shaping the future of short-term

Summertime is when Alaska truly shines, literally, with the solstice

rentals in Alaska. We’re not just following; we’re influencing, ensuring that

bringing 24 hours of daylight – an experience that can be surprising for

the short-term rental scene in Alaska aligns with the kind of community

guests. To ensure they sleep properly, we’ve found blackout curtains to

we’re building.

be a game-changer. Winter, on the other hand, transforms Alaska into a wonderland which can make it difficult for guests and cleaners to access

Given Alaska’s pristine natural environment, what steps does Valet Stays

properties, especially if the main roads aren’t plowed. We have partnered

take to promote sustainability and minimize the ecological footprint of

with local plowing companies who help us tackle this as it comes up.

your managed properties?

At Valet Stays, preserving Alaska’s natural beauty is non-negotiable. We have

Owners expect their properties to be seasonal, but that doesn’t exactly mean

finely tuned guest check-out procedures, requiring that all guests make sure

less annual revenue. Alaska welcomes over 2 million travelers each year,

there is no running water, appliances turned on, doors or windows left open,

and this doesn’t include intrastate travel. To bridge the seasonal gaps, we’ve

or heat set too high before departing. We also encourage property owners to

implemented strategies like attracting travel nurses for mid-term rentals

offer a digital guidebook where guests can find important information about

and extended stays and offering corporate housing. We pay special attention

their stay.

to snowbirds as well, tailoring our approach to cater to those seeking warmer escapes during the colder months. Valet Stays doesn’t just adapt to

Being a service-based business, Valet Stays does not utilize much more than

the changing seasons, we strategically embrace every facet of short-term

the Internet to operate. That means no brick-and-mortar building, office

rental management.

supplies, paper records, electricity & other utilities. We are proud to offer services that keep Alaska pristine.

How do you leverage Alaska’s unique attractions, like the Northern Lights or wilderness adventures, in your marketing and guest services?

www.valetstays.com

We highlight unique experiences in Alaska by partnering up with local

@valetstays

adventure companies and tour guides who have become our friends. We 47

aspen

COLORADO

COLORADO’S JEWEL REIGNS SUPREME IN THE WINTER GAMES.

HIT THE SLOPES.

48

49

COLORADO

IN the realm of American skiing, Aspen, Colorado reigns supreme, its

whopping 3,332 skiable acres and 91 trails, it rightly earns the moniker

allure amplified by a steady stream of celebrities who grace its wintry

“Snowmassive”. With such expansive terrain, it caters to skiers of all

slopes. The winter of December 2023 bore witness to an avalanche

stripes, from fledgling novices to seasoned pros, making it a magnet

of stars – Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Rihanna, Kaia

for families and groups alike.

Gerber, and Mariah Carey all hit the slopes in the Rocky Mountain enclave. Amidst the snow-laden streets, a parade of luxury boutiques,

Buttermilk, on the other hand, serves as the gateway to the slopes for

from Bottega Veneta to Gucci to Ralph Lauren, stand testament to

beginners. With a preponderance of green and blue runs, it’s the ideal

Aspen’s opulence.

training ground for aspiring skiers or those seeking to refine their technique before venturing to more demanding locales. Despite its

Yet, beneath the veneer of celebrity lies Aspen’s true charm, a narrative

novice-friendly vibe, Buttermilk also plays host to the annual Winter

woven deep into its roots as a former silver mining town, tracing back

X Games, drawing thrill-seekers far and wide with its world-renowned

to the storied era of the 1880s. With the establishment of the Aspen

terrain parks.

Skiing Company in 1946, the town emerged as a pioneer in American skiing, drawing leisure seekers and athletes alike to its pristine slopes.

Accommodation in Aspen

Around this nucleus of winter sports, Aspen blossomed into a haven of

The Little Nell

art, culture, and culinary delights, weaving a tapestry of sophistication

Once a humble railroad depot, The Little Nell ascended to the

and allure.

zenith of Aspen’s opulence upon its transformation into a five-star sanctuary in 1989. Its prestige remains unshakable, especially after

As 2024 unfolds, WILD curates a compendium of Aspen’s hidden gems

a recent interior rejuvenation helmed by the renowned designer,

and bustling rendezvous, offering a winter guide to skiing, lodging,

Holly Hunt. Positioned at the very base of the Aspen Gondola, it

dining, and après-ski indulgences in the heart of Colorado’s alpine

offers skiers unparalleled convenience, a mere 30-second (perhaps

paradise.

45 in cumbersome ski boots) stroll to the lifts. Even for those inclined towards après-ski leisure, The Little Nell beckons with its new spa

Where to Ski

boasting treatments by Dr. Barbara Sturm, and the Ajax Tavern,

Aspen Mountain stands as the beating heart of Aspen itself. Back in

an idyllic spot for savoring Aperol spritzes while observing skiers

the 1940s, this resort sprouted right in town, allowing folks to amble

gracefully descend the slopes.

from Main Street’s shops to the mountain’s base in mere minutes. Fast forward 77 years, and the scene remains remarkably unchanged – each

Hotel Jerome

morning sees eager patrons queuing up for breakfast at the beloved

Established in 1899, Hotel Jerome’s interiors pay homage to its

mid-mountain spot, Bonnie’s, just as they did in the swinging ’60s.

historical role as a rugged mountain retreat. Plaid curtains, a warm candled chandelier, and plush leather couches adorn the living spaces,

Yet, amidst the nostalgia, Aspen has embraced modernity. This year

while Wild West-themed artwork and cowhide chairs grace the guest

witnessed the addition of 153 fresh acres to its skiing domain, courtesy

rooms. During winter, the Library bar metamorphoses into a chic hub

of the swift Hero’s quad. Named in homage to the visionary minds

of post-skiing and pre-dinner gatherings, exuding an atmosphere of

behind the endeavor, including the late Jim Crown, a managing

refined conviviality.

partner at Aspen Ski Company.

St. Regis Aspen

50

Aspen Highlands beckons adventurers with its legendary Highlands

Embracing a “modern mountain” aesthetic, the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis

Bowl – a sprawling 270-acre powder haven that demands a hearty

envelops guests in luxurious comfort with sumptuous materials like

45-minute hike for those up to the challenge. Recommended by the

boucle, mohair, leather, wool, and velvet. Indulge in relaxation at

Aspen-Snowmass brass to allocate a solid three hours for the feat, it’s

the RAKxa Wellness Spa, the sole U.S. outpost of the famed Bangkok

an adrenaline-seeker’s paradise. Meanwhile, Highland’s High Temerity

healing retreat, or opt for a more social experience with an après-ski

lift unlocks access to double-black diamond glades and chutes,

concert at The Snow Lodge. Conclude your evening with a delightful

reserved for those truly confident in their alpine prowess.

dinner at the lodge’s namesake restaurant, completing a day of

Enter Snowmass, the colossal titan of Aspen’s ski scene. Boasting a

indulgence and leisure.

BONNIE’S, ASPEN MOUNTAIN.

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COLORADO

TOP: THE CLIFFHOUSE ON BUTTERMILK. THIS PICTURE: THE DIAMOND DOME AT THE GANT ASPEN.

52

Mollie Aspen

Betula

Welcoming visitors this winter is Mollie, a charming boutique hotel

The deck at Betula offers more than just a view – it’s an experience.

nestled on the outskirts of town. Featuring Japandi-style interiors

With a fusion of mountain and French-island cuisine, indulge in

adorned with Noguchi lamps and accentuated by shearling chairs

their tantalizing crudos before splurging on the bison ribeye steak, a

in the lobby, Mollie offers a refreshing departure from traditional

culinary journey not to be missed.

mountain aesthetics. The hotel’s culinary offerings, curated by the esteemed team behind Death & Co., promise an unparalleled

Felix Roasting Co.

gastronomic experience, with their hot toddy standing out as a beloved

At Felix Roasting Co. nestled within Hotel Jerome, coffee is not just a

local favorite.

pick-me-up but a decadent winter treat. Try their signature hickory smoked s’mores latte, crowned with a roasted marshmallow, amidst the

Where to Savor

opulent designs of Ken Fulk.

Matsuhisa In the realm of sushi and spectacle, Matsuhisa rules, nestled within

Where to Après Ski

a centuries-old Victorian residence under Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s

The Snow Lodge, the Rocky Mountain sibling to Montauk’s famed The

watchful eye. Indulge in the black cod and rock shrimp tempura,

Surf Lodge, emerged in Aspen in 2019, initially gracing the base of

all while keeping an eye out for the elusive celebrities that grace its

Aspen Mountain before relocating to the St. Regis in 2021. Despite its

corners.

relatively short tenure, it swiftly entrenched itself as a premier hotspot, boasting a vibrant après-ski concert series headlined by the likes of

Spring Café

Diplo and Carlita. Don your winter gear (many performances unfold in

Venture into the bright, airy haven of Spring Café, where vegan

the St. Regis courtyard) and secure a table at the restaurant for a post-

comfort food takes center stage. The Superhero burrito stands tall,

concert indulgence of freshly-made pasta.

offering a healthier yet satisfying option for those gearing up for a day on the slopes.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro epitomizes the Aspen ethos of going big or going home. Nestled mid-mountain on Aspen Highlands, this cabin

Meat and Cheese

retreat is renowned for its exuberant Champagne-shower lunches,

No reservations, no problem. Dive into the culinary treasure trove

where Veuve Clicquot cascades from spray guns amidst pulsating

of Meat and Cheese, an Aspen gem celebrating locally sourced,

beats and strobe lights. (If you’re seated indoors, consider a wardrobe

sustainable meat, and cheese, ever-evolving with the seasons.

change.) And let’s not forget the fondue – an irresistible treat amidst the revelry.

Casa Tua Nestled in a chalet near Aspen Mountain lies Casa Tua’s vibrant

Ajax Tavern is the quintessential après-ski haven in Aspen,

Colorado outpost. Secure your spot well in advance and indulge in

conveniently positioned at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola. Store

their fresh pasta offerings, with cacio e pepe and pappardelle coming

your skis, gather your friends on the patio, and indulge watching the

in as crowd favorites.

(hopefully) graceful descent of skiers down the slopes.

White House Tavern

Belly Up, Aspen’s premier 450-seat music venue, has hosted illustrious

Amidst Aspen’s glitz, White House Tavern offers a laidback escape.

acts since 2005, including the likes of the Killers, John Legend, and

Renowned for their French dip and crispy chicken sandwich, a queue

Kacey Musgraves. This New Year’s, the Chainsmokers graced the stage.

is almost guaranteed, but trust us, it’s well worth the wait.

With concerts typically commencing later in the evening – doors opening for an upcoming Bob Moses performance at 8pm. – Belly Up is

Bonnie’s

the ultimate choice for an après-après-ski night out.

A pilgrimage for skiers, Bonnie’s timeless 1960s chalet beckons with its legendary pancakes and apple strudel. Bask in the sunshine on a bluebird day, relishing a stack of freshly flipped delights on the deck, generously drizzled with maple syrup.

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SURFING BALI

walking on ALTHOUGH SYNONYMOUS WITH BALI,

SURFING IS NOT NATIVE TO THE ISLAND. BOB KOKE BROUGHT IT OVER IN 1936;

BUT AT WHAT POINT DOES INDIGENOUS CULTURE BECOME SO INGRAINED THAT THEY BECOME ONE AND THE SAME?

BY ANTONIA STANTON

BRIAN SWAN SURFS ULU’S.

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water 55

SURFING BALI IT’S a story that’s been retold year after year, reimagined, warped, and

Padang. The beautiful thing about surfing in Bali is that the entire island seems

retouched in the special way that only happens to remote island communities

to be on the same wavelength, despite surfing not being a native sport; whether

in the 80’s; but the man in the middle, Bob Koke, remains in every scenario.

you’re in Sanur or Padang-Padang, the etiquette you learn out on the surf can

Two Americans had arrived by steamboat in 1936 – pre-independance, pre-

be applied everywhere, and it blends seamlessly. Balinese hospitality, famous

airport, and pre-surf – and changed the landscape so vividly and distinctly that

for being warm and welcoming, paddles the same path.

not a single force in the world would be able to deny the mark they had left on the soul of the island.

Surf Options!

Bali, Indonesia, is renowned worldwide for its stunning beaches, vibrant

At the time, Bali was completely untouched by the outside world. Paddling

culture, and, of course, its epic surf breaks. Whether you’re a beginner

back into shore only to be greeted by a short, topless Balinese woman offering

looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking the ultimate

food and drink from the large basket on her head was an experience that

challenge, Bali offers something for everyone. Here, we explore some of Bali’s

rarely existed anywhere else. Trekking down to hot spots and nearly slipping

main surf breaks and their corresponding skill levels: Here’s a brief round up of

and falling to your death had a certain charm, a je ne sais quoi that was

surf breaks on the island.

irreplaceable.

Kuta Beach: Flashing forward to now, looking upon surfers all over the island, these tales

Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

of “Old Bali” feel bittersweet and nostalgic – so much has changed, yet so

Located in the heart of Bali’s first tourism hub, Kuta Beach is famous for its

little. The community has evolved past just an appreciation for the waves, and

consistent waves and sandy bottom, making it ideal for beginners to hone their

huge island-wide campaigns like Bye-Bye Plastic Bags and Sungaiwatch have

skills. Surf schools line the beach, offering lessons and board rentals for those

percolated into the wider community to give back to the Island. The difference

eager to learn the basics of surfing.

it’s made is remarkable; both online and in real life, Bali seems to be birthing a renaissance-like movement of foreigners and locals alike who really, truly

Canggu:

appreciate the island’s lush nature and culture that seemed to be forgotten in

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

the 90’s and early noughties in the name of development and economic growth.

Canggu boasts a variety of surf breaks suitable for different skill levels. Berawa Beach offers long, peeling waves perfect for intermediates, while Batu Bolong

Foreigners who arrive in Bali are rarely told to look beyond the trendy

and Echo Beach provide more challenging waves favored by experienced

landscape of Canggu – and really, why should they? The scene is convenient

surfers. The beach town also features a vibrant surf culture with trendy cafes

and familiar, the surf and service is good and plenty of like-minded individuals

and beachfront bars.

are all congregated in the same place… but if early surfing culture has taught us anything, it’s that we as foreigners cannot remain in the comfort of the turf

Uluwatu:

for too long – those that seek truly fulfilling and new experiences must once in

Skill Level: Advanced

a while step out of that zone and explore past the shore.

Uluwatu is home to some of Bali’s most legendary waves, catering mainly to experienced surfers. The main break at Uluwatu offers powerful, barreling

There is so much rich culture in Bali that blends seamlessly with the Surf

waves over a shallow reef, demanding precise timing and advanced wave-riding

Lifestyle. At times hectic and noisy, the island seems to be alive, always, even

skills. The breathtaking cliff-top scenery adds to the allure of this iconic surf

without the hustle and bustle. Balinese Hinduism, not to be mistaken for any

spot.

other branch of the religion, is idiosyncratic in the way that it’s been valued and revered enough to be preserved by the entire world. The religion famously

Padang-Padang:

extends itself past mere spiritual belief – there is no “To believe or not to

Skill Level: Advanced

believe?” in Balinese Hinduism because at its core, it is a way of life. Really,

Located nearby Uluwatu, Padang-Padang is another world-class surf break

what other perspective could you possibly have when you’ve seen the island?

renowned for its hollow barrels and fast, challenging waves. While the lineup

To paddle in the water and look up to see an 11th-Century temple, to look out

can get crowded, scoring a clean barrel at Padang Padang is a dream for many

of your window and see nothing but paddies and trees and hills as far as the

experienced surfers willing to test their limits.

horizon stretches, to be woken up each morning by the banjar’s morning bells; experiencing that after growing up in any other place is difficult to describe.

Impossibles: Skill Level: Advanced

The community that Surf has built into the island is difficult to understand

As the name suggests, Impossibles offers some of Bali’s most challenging

and even more difficult to permeate. There is a sense of camaraderie out in

waves, reserved for expert surfers only. Situated between Padang Padang and

the water, an unspoken agreement about etiquette and local rules that is so

Bingin, this fast and powerful reef break delivers long, perfectly shaped lefts

rarely seen in other communities. There’s a hierarchy, shared terminology,

and rights, requiring exceptional wave-reading skills and fearless commitment.

and a connection to nature that seems impossible to understand (and frankly, probably slightly fanatic) from the shore. There is no rift, no barrier between

Medewi:

local and foreign surfers in the water. You have a right to be there, as long

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

as you’re willing to learn. Who cares what language you speak if you know,

Located on Bali’s west coast, Medewi is known for its long, mellow left-hand

intrinsically, what everyone’s soul is saying?

point break, providing a more laid-back experience compared to the island’s southern breaks. While suitable for intermediates, Medewi’s long rides and

Kuta Beach was built on waves. Development follows surfers around the island

forgiving waves also attract advanced surfers seeking a slightly more relaxed

like a tether, up and down the western shore, from Batu Bolong to Padang-

vibe.

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TOP: ON BOARD. ABOVE: INTO THE BREACH ONCE MORE.

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SURFING BALI

PUA JOHNSON AT PADANG PADANG. PHOTO: FEDERICO-VANNO-LIQUID-BARREL.

58

TOP TO BOTTOM: JARED MELL; BACK IN THE DAY; BIKES AND BOARDS.

59

BALI

GOOD DAY SUNSHNE. RIGHT: THE SWAN, INSIDE AND OUT.

60

THE SAGA OF THE UNSTOPPABLE FAMILY & THE SWAN BINGIN IS A CAPTIVATING NARRATIVE OF RESILIENCE, ADVENTURE, AND THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF A PLACE TO CALL HOME. AND NOW THEY HAVE ONE.

61

BALI

SUNNY DAYS;CULTURE CHIC.

AT its core, Rhonda and Brian Swan, along with their daughter Hanalei, embody the essence of living life on one’s own terms, a journey that began nearly two decades ago on the sun-kissed shores of San Diego. Here, amidst the waves, Rhonda, originally from Detroit, and Brian, from a small town outside Chicago, discovered a shared passion for surfing that quickly evolved into a deep connection. This bond, rooted in their love for adventure and each other, set the stage for a remarkable life journey.

Both Rhonda and Brian were carving out successful careers in the corporate world when the arrival of their daughter Hanalei catalyzed a dramatic shift in their life’s direction. Determined to never place Hanalei in daycare, Rhonda embarked on a venture into online entrepreneurship while still at GlaxoSmithKline, eventually launching a branding firm that would enable her to retire Brian from his robotics engineering career.

Their venture into real estate seemed like the next step towards securing their dream life. However, the 2008 market crash dealt a devastating blow, erasing their investments and forcing a radical reassessment of their future.

With a one-year-old Hanalei and their worldly possessions sold, the Swans embarked on an odyssey that redefined the concept of home. Over the next 15 years, their quest for a place to call home took them across more than 52 countries and all seven continents, each destination weaving into the rich tapestry of their family’s story. It was a journey of discovery, learning, and profound connections, driven by an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit and a desire for a life unbound by convention.

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THREE FLOORS WELCOME THE OUTSIDE IN.

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ALL MOD CONS. AND THEN SOME.

In 2015, after years of nomadic exploration, the Swans found their sanctuary in Bali, Indonesia, a place that had captured their hearts early in their journey with its world-class surf, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty.

Bali was more than just a destination; it was where they decided to lay down roots and create something lasting. Thus, the Swan Bingin was born – a fourstory testament to their journey, perched atop Bingin Beach, offering both a personal haven and a commercial hub through Salty Coffee on the ground floor.

The building also features a one-bedroom studio apartment, designed by Hanalei, reflecting the family’s commitment to sustainability and ethical living. The crown jewel of the Swan Bingin is the penthouse, boasting 360° views and serving as the family’s part-time residence and a welcoming retreat for travelers. This space encapsulates the Swans’ philosophy of sharing the beauty of Bali with the world, while also allowing them to continue their travels and exploration.

Their journey underscores the importance of family, the transformative power of travel, and the enduring quest for a place to call home – a quest that has culminated in the creation of the Swan Bingin, a beacon of resilience, community, and the endless pursuit of dreams.

The Swan Bingin can be found on Airbnb, Bookings and VRBO or http://instagram. com/the swanbingin

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FITNESS

CARRIE AND WLL HENKE. 66

BAMBU FITNESS BALI

WHERE COMMUNITY AND FITNESS INTERTWINE IN PARADISE.

IN the Heart of Bali

Evolving with Integrity

Nestled among the scenic beauty of Bali, a unique fitness haven

As trends ebb and flow in the fitness industry, Bambu Fitness Bali

thrives. This is Bambu Fitness Bali, a creation born from the

remains anchored in simplicity and transparency. Their focus on

passions and experiences of Carrie and Will Henke. It’s more than a

clear, understandable fitness philosophies ensures that members

gym; it’s a community, a lifestyle, a testament to the transformative

are not just participating but are truly connected to their fitness

power of fitness and connection.

journey. This approach forms the unchanging core of their everevolving business model.

Forging a Path Will’s journey from the discipline and rigor of the US Military to

Building a Community

the world of fitness coaching laid the foundation for Bambu Fitness

Community isn’t just a buzzword at Bambu Fitness Bali; it’s the

Bali. His military tenure, demanding peak physical condition,

essence of their existence. The gym transcends the traditional

evolved into a passion for helping others achieve their best selves.

boundaries of a fitness center, creating a space where relationships

Meanwhile, Carrie brought her insight into the integral role of

are forged, support systems are built, and fitness journeys are

community and design in health and wellness. Their combined

shared. As they look to the future, their aim is to nurture this

vision for a space where fitness and travel intersect led to the

community, staying true to their core values.

creation of WanderFit Retreats, eventually culminating in the birth of Bambu Fitness Bali.

A Vision for the Future The road ahead for Bambu Fitness Bali is paved with exciting

A Name with Meaning

expansions. Envisioning a comprehensive health destination,

‘Bambu’, taking its cue from the Indonesian spelling of bamboo,

the team plans to add recovery facilities, a healthy meal service,

reflects the essence of their fitness philosophy. Bamboo is resilient,

and even accommodations and a co-working space. This isn’t just

flexible, and grows in close-knit clusters, mirroring the traits

growth; it’s a holistic enhancement of the community experience,

Bambu Fitness Bali embodies: strength, adaptability, and a sense

driven by feedback and a deep understanding of members’ needs.

of community. It’s a name that resonates with the values they hold dear and the environment they aim to create.

Bambu Fitness Bali is more than a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of what fitness can be when it’s intertwined with community

Standing Apart

and genuine care. Under Carrie and Will Henke’s guidance, it

In a world teeming with fitness options, Bambu Fitness Bali

stands as a sanctuary where fitness goals are pursued in unison,

distinguishes itself through its exceptional coaching and an

where every individual’s journey is valued, and where the spirit of

inclusive approach to workouts. Here, coaches are more than

community flourishes amidst the serene backdrop of Bali.

trainers; they are the pillars of the community, guiding, inspiring,

www.bambufitnessbali.com

and creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed

@bambufitnessbali

and valued. This emphasis on quality coaching and community

www.wanderfitretreats.com

engagement is the heartbeat of Bambu Fitness Bali.

@wanderfit.retreats

67

ASIA

mandala ASIA’S LARGEST AND MOST DYNAMIC PRIVATE MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITY IS MAKING WAVES IN SINGAPORE, JAPAN AND BALI – AND IT’S NOT DONE YET. WILD MAG SPOKE TO GROUP CFO ADAM CLAYTON.

MANDALA CLUB, SINGAPORE.

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69

ASIA

MANDALA ON THE ROCKS, BALI, AND RIGHT: MANDALA CLUB NISEKO.

70

ADAM, can you elaborate on the core vision and

We believed there was space to operate in this

What locations does the Mandala Group currently

mission of the Mandala Group, and how you aim

segment because most luxury hotel brands are

operate in, and what influenced the decision to

to impact the communities you serve?

not focused on bringing people together, they are

choose these areas?

For sure. Our vision is to build a network of

focused on luxury over community. We believed

We are currently operating in Singapore, Indonesia

world-class member clubs in Asia with community

our product would appeal to the next generation

and Japan and we are looking at expanding into

centric real estate developments. Our mission

luxury traveler that wanted to come away from

key asian cities and holiday destinations. Our goal

is to build meaningful connections and enrich

holidays and trips with new connections. During

is to be the first Asian centric, multi-site, private

people’s lives by uniting the world’s most exciting

COVID we saw an opportunity to acquire an

membership product and we plan on building a

community of inspiring individuals.

existing private members club and we saw this

20,000 strong community by 2029.

as a great opportunity and platform to build What inspired the name ‘Mandala Group’, and

communities in cities that would eventually visit

Are there plans for expanding to new locations in

how does it reflect the ethos and philosophy of

and stay at our community centric real estate

the near future? If so, what criteria do you use to

your organization?

developments. This pivot was amazing for our

select these new areas?

Mandala is a word that has many interpretations

brand and we now have Singapore’s largest private

Outside of Singapore, we recently opened Mandala

and meanings, but our brand name drew

membership community and we are opening

Club in Niseko as a precursor to a soon to be

inspiration from its Hindu origins, which is

venues in Indonesia, Japan and Thailand with the

launched real estate development. Mandala

ultimately a circular symbol representing unity

view of becoming Asia’s largest and most dynamic

Club Bali is under construction and due to open

and harmony. Uniting communities to bring

private membership community.

in Q3 2024. We are exploring opportunities in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Jakarta, Tokyo and Dubai.

harmony to people’s lives is at the center of everything we do. Our founder Ben can also show

Who is your primary target audience, and how

Our primary driver for expansion is always what

you his Mandala tattoo!

does the Mandala Group tailor its approach to

locations will add meaningful value to our existing

meet the specific needs of this group?

community. All of the locations we are targeting

What were the initial goals when founding the

We are targeting diversity. We work very hard to

are places where our existing community travel

Mandala Group, and how have they evolved over

balance the demographics in our community in

for business and leisure. If the primary objective is

time?

terms of age, sex, occupation and race. We believe

achieved, we then do a deep dive feasibility study

We built the Mandala brand with the vision of

a diverse room is a more interesting room.

of the region and search for opportunities that

building a community centric, luxury hotel brand.

meet our financial return metrics.

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ASIA

ABOVE: THE STRAITS PARLOUR, SINGAPORE. TOP RIGHT: TASTING ROOM EVENT, AND BELOW, ANDERSON PAAK MAKES THE ROOM SPIN.

Could you share a bit about the background

has received multiple awards from leading

have joined the UN race to zero and we are

of the founders? How do their personal

publications such as Vogue, GQ and Monocle just

Singapore’s most sustainable hospitality brand.

experiences and expertise shape the direction

to name a few.

We also support local charitable organizations

of the Mandala Group?

Content. Our ultimate purpose is to get

in every market we enter by leveraging our

Ben Jones is an ex banker who used to work

like-minded people in the same room to create

powerful community for good.

in special situations debt structuring, but

meaningful connections. To facilitate this, every

Looking forward, what is the long-term vision

always had a passion for design and the arts. I

Mandala property has an extensive cultural

for the Mandala Group, and how do you

am a qualified accountant and ex investment

calendar across five programming pillars;

plan to adapt to changing environments and

banker, but spent a chunk of my career

futures, encounters, wellness, epicures and

challenges?

building structure and growth into businesses

creators.

Our long-term vision is to build a network of

backed by private equity funds. We both had

Experiences. Our events verticals are called

world-class private membership clubs and

entrepreneurial interests on the side, Ben was

Mandala Masters and Mandala Presents.

community centric real estate developments,

designing and developing luxury villas in Bali,

Mandala Masters has successfully executed

that attracts a community of inspiring

I was involved in building Singapore’s largest

some of the world’s biggest culinary pop-ups

individuals. Building communities across

independent fitness business. We met in Asia

with the world’s best restaurants. Mandala

multiple cities and cultures will always present

and came together five years ago with a vision

Presents exists to create intimatemusic

challenges, but we have built systems and

to build the Mandala business into force in the

experiences with cool artists. These events

processes that can be localized and we have an

luxury hospitality space.

facilitate brand awareness, member engagement

incredible team of people to help us execute the

and database for membership acquisition.

vision and meet these challenges head on. The

What unique strategies or methodologies

future is bright and we are just getting started!

does the Mandala Group employ to achieve its

How does the Mandala Group engage with

objectives?

local communities, and what role do these

We believe we have three main competitive

communities play in shaping your projects and

advantages:

initiatives?

Design. Our design is our edge; our unique

Purpose is one of our core brand pillars. Part

fingerprint. Bold and contemporary, leaning

of our brand ethos is being a good corporate

heavily into art. Our inhouse design studio

citizen. We are fully carbon neutral, we

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www.mandala.global

73

NEPAL

ZEN & THE ART OF

mustang valley A BESPOKE ADVENTURE AWAITS TRAVELERS TO THE REMOTE KINGDOM OF MUSTANG IN NEPAL WHERE LIFE ACCELERATORS ARE CONVENING FOR THE SPECTACULAR TRIP OF A LIFETIME.

BY NIGEL SIMMONDS

NEPAL DREAMING.

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75

NEPAL

“There are few places left in the world that have stayed as they were hundreds of years ago. This place, while raw, is such a place. Don’t hesitate. See it now.”

THREE years ago, Bill Bensely’s longtime

The 29-room Shinta Mani Mustang Resort is

paintings, which today hang in my home in

friend and associate in all projects melding

managed by its owners, Sherpa Hospitality

Bangkok.

luxury, adventure and conservation, Jason

Group, with creative design touches from

M Friedman, started working with the

Bill Bensely and his team. Warm toned

What were your first impressions arriving

Sherpa family in Nepal. The family has

fabrics and materials reflect the colors of

on site?

lodges across the Everest and Annapurna

the surrounding landscape, visible from

Well, when I did finally get there it was with

routes, which Jason helped to consolidate

every window of the property. Huge fire

the aid of an airplane, and I was deeply

into the Mountain Lodges of Nepal Group.

pits on the outdoor terrace allow guests

impressed. I kicked myself for not having

These mountains truly run in their blood

to admire the stars in warmth as the

visited with Robert in our youth. Better late

– Namgyal Sherpa’s mother was the first

temperatures dip. Inside, every area is

than never.

Nepali woman to climb Everest. Now arrives

complemented by the artwork of the late

a new offering from the group, the Shinta

artist Robert Powell, a friend of Bill’s who

What were the logistical challenges of

Mani Mustang – Bill Bensley Collection.

drew the region’s vernacular architecture

working there?

in mind-boggling detail. We caught up

The new road winds its way around some

Perched high in the mountains, it offers a

with Bill to ask him about his experience of

very steep contours and during each of the

more comfortable alternative to the usual

designing such a remote retreat.

monsoons, the rains cause landslides and block the roads. This happened just three

circuit lodges of Nepal. Here lies the most

76

luxurious lodge in the country, offering

Bill, tell us about your design journey to

days before our grand opening, but the

a base camp for three-to-seven days of

Shinta Mani Mustang.

roads team worked through the night to

exploration. Guests experience the full

My design journey to Shinta Mani Mustang

open the passage and no one suspected a

gamut of adventure: trekking, horse riding,

began in 1986 on one of my first trips to

thing!

archery, rock climbing, mountain biking,

Kathmandu. I forget exactly how but I fell

hiking and yoga.

in with the design crowd there, as one did in

How did you approach a project like this

those days. Gertz and Ludmilla Hagmuller,

in a place like Mustang, given the local

“This is perhaps one of the most exciting

Eric Theophile, G2, and Robert Powell, to

culture and environment?

projects we have ever completed,” Bill

mention just a few. Robert had just come

With every new project we do at Bensley

told WILD magazine. “I have never seen

back from Mustang. He had walked into

Design, our goal is first to understand

such wildly dramatic landscapes as the

the valley which was a month’s trek each

the neighborhood or environment – or in

mountains and valleys of Mustang, and

way for a very fit young man. He came back

Mustang’s case, the valley – in which we

am thrilled that Shinta Mani can be the

with a ton of wonderful drawings which put

are creating. The south and north of the

first to introduce this forbidden kingdom to

him on the map as one of Asia’s most skilled

Mustang valley are so different. Where our

international adventurers. This will be their

artists. We spoke for hours and as the sun

site is located in the North, it’s really like

base camp for explorations all around these

went down the slides came out and I was

going back in time a thousand years. There

phenomenal mountains for the experience

smitten. Over the next 30 years I bought

are barely any TV antennas, few cars, little

of a lifetime.”

many of Robert’s wonderful watercolor

electricity. Every day, livestock walk back

77

NEPAL

SHINTA MANI MUSTANG.

78

BEAUTY, NEPAL STYLE.

from the fields into villages, and even down

What was the inspiration behind the

prayer stones stacked one above the other

the stairs of some homes. The biggest town

interior concept; materials, finishings, and

outside atop stone walls, showing years of

has just four streets, which wrap around

furniture?

wintertime atonement. It is this unique way

the main fort.

The hotel is made from local stone and

of seeing the world which we want to carry

so appears to grow naturally out of the

throughout the experience.

My goal was to give our guests all the

landscape. The interiors follow a similar

comforts one expects at a Bensley

ethos, having been sourced locally. As

Upcycling also played an important part

Collection Hotel – electricity, internet,

a lover of the environment, I set about

as we scoured local antiques shops and

plush beds, gorgeous cocktails – but all

repurposing and upcycling existing

junk yards to turn discarded doors and all

the while keeping that intense feeling

materials and furniture in inventive ways.

kinds of materials into treasure with a bit

of authenticity and remoteness. What I

This was also a logical choice for a site

of ingenuity and TLC. A similar approach

find most interesting in this region is the

which is remote and therefore restricted in

applies to materials and finishings, which

symbolism one finds in the architecture,

terms of shipping.

were sourced locally for reasons of both sustainability and accessibility. Every area

and the way the people of Mustang use dirt. It sounds odd but bear with me.

An example is the mini bar in each suite.

is complemented by the artwork of the late

I went to see three local clay quarries,

There is locally and sustainably sourced

artist Robert Powell.

each with their own distinct colors: dove

yak fur draped over it, while the handles

gray, terracotta red and a yellowish beige.

to open the mini bar are in fact engraved

These are each bestowed with a different

Tibetan conch shells. On the wall above,

Walk us through the place…

meaning: prosperity, knowledge and

there are three big organic pieces of slate,

A long central courtyard leads to the

longevity. One can see these colors all

with Sanskrit poems engraved on them.

lobby, a warm and convivial sitting room

over the region, not just in the mountains

Traditionally in this northern region, when

that invites conversation between guests,

and cliffs and landscape, but in the

winter falls and it is bitterly cold, people

while overlooking an outdoor terrace with

architecture, so I made a deliberate effort

take refuge inside. It is a quiet time and

jaw-dropping views. Huge fire pits on the

to bring a very basic type of architecture to

so people set to carving these poems and

outdoor terrace allow guests to admire the

the fore.

prayers into slate as a form of penance.

night sky in warmth as the temperatures

Then in the summer one sees these

dip. The Lobby is flanked on either side

79

NEPAL

WILD AND WONDERFUL MUSTANG.

by the Nilgiri Restaurant, and the Aara

What’s different about a Bensley Collection

What is your one lasting impression of

bar. Behind the Restaurant one can find

hotel, and in particular this property?

Mustang?

the back-of-house, along with a handful of

I say this with all the sincerity in the world.

It was about 5pm in Lo Manthang. I was

offices. Two wings run alongside the central

The Earth, for the most part, has enough

sitting on top of a mud corral wall sketching

courtyard: one encompasses 29 suites

hotels. The world does not need to build

a 1000-year-old village. An old lady was

which run over two floors, while the other

anything else. We need to manage better

herding her sheep back from the foothills

holds a multipurpose area, the spa and

what we have. Knowing this, going forward,

to place them in a tight corral under her

gym, including a stone jacuzzi, and a steam

a Bensley Collection must make the place in

house to heat her home. There was nobody

and sauna with views of the mountains.

which it sits into a better place.

else there. She smiled and greeted me and offered water. I thought to myself that this

Some suites are also located on the first Shinta Mani Wild Bensley Collection has,

same scenario could have played out in

for example, made the Cardomon a safer

exactly the same way centuries ago. There

What do we do when we’re not luxuriating

refuge for wildlife and has slowed down

are few places left in the world that are

in sustainably sourced yak fur in the

the devastating deforestation there. Shinta

as they were hundreds of years ago. This

suites?

Mani Bensley Collection in Siem Reap has

place, while raw, is such a place. Don’t

Most of the activities are held in the

changed thousands of lives for the better by

hesitate. See it now. Like everywhere else,

mountains surrounding the actual hotel as

way of education, clean water and housing.

Burger King is on the way.

this is very much intended as a base camp

Our goal in Mustang is to revitalize a fragile

for a week of adventure. There’s trekking,

society, as the World Bank defines Mustang.

horse riding, archery, rock climbing,

The young leave the valley as soon as they

mountain biking … and then return to

can. We want to give them a reason to stay.

floor of this wing.

the hotel for rejuvenating spa treatments

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and warm, welcoming restaurants and

What defines Nepal for you?

public spaces that, through their design,

Rawness, colors, festivities, altitude, sacred

encourage guests to speak to each other and

places, and big smiles filled with white

share experiences.

teeth.

www. shintamanimustang.com

BILL BENSLEY.

81

NEPAL

M NN AA M

SHERPA BY NAME, SHERPA BY NATURE.

82

GG YY AA LL

NAMGYAL SHERPA – CEO OF SHERPA HOSPITALITY, THE OWNERS OF SHINTA MANI MUSTANG – LOST HIS MOTHER TO EVEREST WHEN HE WAS JUST 11 YEARS OLD. HE TALKS TO WILD ABOUT HIS FAMILY’S CLIMBING HERITAGE, HOW IT HELPED RECONCILE HIS FATHER TO THE TRAGEDY, AND HIS HOPES THAT NEPAL CAN BECOME CENTRAL TO WORLDWIDE ENLIGHTENMENT.

NAMGYAL, tell us about your mother, the first Nepali woman to

rich cultural landscape of Cambodia, resonated with our ethos of

climb Everest, and what it was like growing up and losing her.

authentic and transformative travel experiences. It felt like the right match to shepherd our endeavor into existence. This alignment of

My mother, Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, stands as a towering figure in

values and brand heritage is what makes our collective effort not just

my life and the history of Nepal. As the first Nepali woman to climb

a business venture, but a culturally synergistic movement poised to

Everest, she broke barriers and redefined what was possible for

redefine luxury tourism in Nepal.

women in our country. Her determination was boundless, her spirit indomitable, and her loss, when I was only eleven, left a void that

How will it change life in the Mustang Valley?

seemed insurmountable. Growing up without her was a challenge that took years to reconcile, as her aspirations and achievements cast

The Shinta Mani Mustang project aspires to bring positive change to

a long shadow. Yet, her legacy offered a path forward, one that led me

Mustang Valley by introducing it to discerning travelers. By unfolding

to embrace her dreams as my own guiding stars.”

the stories and the heritage of Mustang, we aim to inspire local communities, elevate their aspirations, and integrate the valley into

How deeply ingrained is climbing in your family, and what does it

the narrative of luxury travel, all while maintaining respect for its

represent to the Nepalese people?

natural beauty and cultural integrity.

Climbing is woven into our family’s fabric, with a personal

What other projects are your companies Sherpa Hospitality and

connection to the Sherpa community’s heart and soul. While not all

Thamserku Trekking involved with?

my family members are mountaineers, our lives are inherently linked to the mountains. My father’s trekking and expedition company,

Beyond the Shinta Mani Mustang, our group’s endeavors include

alongside his ascents, speak to a passion reignited after a period

the Mountain Lodges of Nepal, a network of boutique luxury lodges

of grief. Climbing, particularly for the Sherpa and mountainous

offering immersive experiences with comfort in Nepal’s rugged

communities, is both a livelihood and a legacy.

terrains. As the Managing Director of Thamserku Trekking, I oversee partnerships that provide comprehensive destination management

What are the central beliefs held dear by all Sherpas, and how come

services and organize expeditions, such as to Everest, for adventurers

you have the name Sherpa?

worldwide.

Sherpas, originating from Tibet centuries ago, settled in the

What does the future hold for the hospitality industry in Nepal?

Himalayas to pursue spirituality and Buddhism, which remain central to our way of life. The term ‘Sherpa’ – meaning ‘people from

I envision a bright future for Nepal’s hospitality sector, brimming with

the east’ – has evolved from denoting our community to becoming

opportunities for growth and innovation. The industry is gradually

synonymous with high-altitude porters due to historical interactions

shifting from traditional perceptions to showcasing Nepal as a

with early explorers. Despite this, it’s important to recognize Sherpa

versatile destination, capable of delivering world-class, experiential

as a distinct ethnicity with its rich cultural tapestry.

travel. As global interest grows in mindfulness and well-being, Nepal is strategically positioned to become a central hub for travelers

How did you become involved in the Shinta Mani Mustang project,

seeking adventure in a contemplative landscape.

and how long have you been working on it? www. mountainlodgesofnepal.com The Shinta Mani Mustang initiative began as a partnership formed

www.thamserkutrekking.com

in the midst of the pandemic with Jason Friedman, a connoisseur in

www. shintamanimustang.com

the luxury travel industry. Our collaboration has been a three-year

@mountainlodgesofnepal

journey of bringing to life a vision that marries cultural integrity with sustainable luxury. The Shinta Mani brand, with its roots in the

83

INSPIRATIONS

WHAT’S YOUR EVEREST? WE ALL HAVE NOTIONS OF WHAT IS AND ISN’T POSSIBLE. UNTIL THE 1920S, EVEREST WAS CONSIDERED INSURMOUNTABLE. IN 1953, EDMUND HILLARY AND SHERPA TENZING NORGAY PROVED EVERYONE WRONG.

BY ANTONIA STANTON

84

SPLITTING the atom, women in business … the entire concept

Everest should ignite your passion and raise you up, conquering

of handphones and computers … none of these ideas were

preconceived notions of yourself and the world around you. It’s

on the table when our grandmothers were born. Yet they’re

what makes us unique as humans; it’s what sets us apart from

commonplace now. What changed along the way? You did, or at

others. It’s our consensual drive to be better than we are.

least your belief system did. You recognised that the life around you was building artificial walls. You saw there was more.

The day to day

You thought to yourself: Who are we to limit our futures with

Everyday goals may seem important, but they are essentially

predetermined thinking?

futile, in a glorious way. Buddhists tell us that repetition is a mantra, that by repeating the same patterns we can get closer to

Your journey is what you make of it. Goal-setting is how you

God. This is true; it has always been true. But it’s also limiting.

get there. Recognising the self-imposed boundaries of your

We need to search for higher goals; it’s instinctive within all of us.

beliefs and intentions are what limit all of us. As Adidas says so succinctly: Impossible is Nothing. Nike says the same thing, in a

Posting your meal on Instagram may be gratifying, but when

different way: Just Do It.

you look at it an hour later, your food is already cold. Reality kicks in: maybe it’s better to let the wind fill your sails and push

Just do it

you towards weightlessness? It’s through higher achievements

Everyone has their own unique Everest, a goal that challenges us

and higher goal setting that we set the cut of our jib: reach for

to channel our higher selves. I can’t tell you exactly what yours

the stars, they say, and you too can defy gravity. You can be

is; that’s something for you to decide. Whatever it may be, your

weightless too.

AINT NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH.

85

INSPIRATIONS

EVEREST!

86

DON’T LOOK DOWN.

Weightlessness can be heavy

running through our veins like water in a spring, steady as snowfall atop a

Establishing a personal Everest requires discipline and introspection that

mountain. You’re closer than you think.

needs to be maintained. There is rarely ever one overarching goal that spans the entirety of our lives, and the beautiful human mind adapts and

What’s your oxygen?

recalibrates itself, fluidly, at every turn. To use this to your advantage is like

Altitudes are so high on Everest that the oxygen in the air is halved. The

a mountaineer strapping themselves to pitons in the rock face as an extra

higher you climb, the harder it is to breathe. The same is true in life. Figure

safety net. Remaining present and grounded in our reality allows us to strive

out what helps you breathe and keep it close. This could be your loved ones,

towards our goal steadily. Think of these pitons as checkpoints and micro-

your hobbies, or even self care; anything that keeps you calm and afloat,

achievements, checking in at every step and remaining focused in your

because neglecting yourself during the climb can only lead to burnout.

ascent towards your Everest. Every piton you pass is one step higher.

Community is a cornerstone of humanity. Never lose contact with your rescue team, as they are the ones that will catch you when you can’t catch

Different strokes for different folks

yourself.

There are 18 different routes up Mt. Everest. Each has its own set of unique benefits and drawbacks, exactly like the forks in the road you encounter

Regrouping

on your own journey. There is not one path that is right for everyone; we

Tragically, things in life often go wrong; businesses will lose money,

shouldn’t pressure ourselves into doing things the way they’re “supposed” to

pandemics will happen, and the world will stop. Things will sometimes

be done. Had Galileo succumbed to this, we would still believe the Earth to

go south, but that isn’t important. The real show of character is what you

be the center of the universe. Instead, we should compare ourselves to who

choose to do with your setbacks. If your piton falls out of the terrain, assess

we were yesterday; are you kinder, more vivacious, more intentional in your

your surroundings and calculate the best possible route for yourself. If one

actions? Do you feel more fulfilled? Go against the grain. When we do what

road to the summit doesn’t work out, consider one of the other 17. You

feels right to us, it allows our souls to run wild.

might be surprised at the life you find along the road.

You are already on the path

The path doesn’t end at the top

Mountaineers train for years to climb Everest, carrying weights in their

In the mountaineering community, many say that the descent is the most

packs while scaling smaller mountains. They build up their tolerance and

difficult part of the journey. The air grows thin, and you may find yourself

efficiency over time, just like you can in your own life. The longer you

growing restless. It sounds daunting, but consider this: you’ve worked

practice and refine your skills, the further you can go and the closer you

tirelessly to reach this part. The life that you were manifesting for so long

can get to reaching your summit. Some people call this manifestation,

is right in front of you. This is the chapter where you can pause, relish,

while others call it being prepared. Whatever you call it, visualizing the

adapt, and recalibrate. If it’s a business, how will you maintain quality after

summit and working like you’re already there will make the journey

meeting your expansion goal? If it’s health and wellness, what will you do to

smoother. Center yourself around your goal and make it a constant in your

maintain it or improve? This is an important part of your Everest; the path

life. Eventually, progress will become automatic and almost subconscious.

does not end at the top. You’ve conquered one mountain, the path long and

Advancement is natural for humans; it’s embedded in our very beings,

grueling. What’s one more?

87

USA

TWO decades ago, Florida entrepreneur Heather Plampin had a flourishing

us.” In her own state of personal despair, she found those moments brought

home renovation company. Then came the 2008 housing crisis, and almost

her great joy. “I found myself spending more and more time helping my

overnight her Sarasota business collapsed. “I found myself reeling from the

father with the business infrastructure. He had an amazing vision that I

effects of the recession on both a professional and personal level,” she says.

knew I could implement and build into existence. He wanted to not only help

“Homeowners and contractors were unable to pay the debts to me for jobs

himself, but other neighbors who also wanted to salvage their homes.”

completed. I was holding a large portfolio of homes that were intended to

Ultimately, he created the business model for The Cottages on the Key, Inc.

be ‘flipped’, but investors and homebuyers were falling off left and right. It seemed as if overnight I ran out of funds and credit to support my business

The Cottages On The Key

and my livelihood. I found myself broke, going through a divorce, and trying

“As homeowners decided to join the portfolio,” says Plampin, “I found myself

desperately to save my own home.”

moving away from my day jobs, and spending more time helping my father.

Eventually, we decided it was best I made the leap, and for me to come on

Plampin found whatever jobs she could at the time, which were menial in

board full time. Roger and I were official business partners, with a family

comparison to her earnings as a business owner. She was unable to make

owned and operated business located on Siesta Key.” Her personal life also

mortgage payments and slowly went into foreclosure. Eventually the bank

began to look up. “I had a new love interest that was getting serious, and

asked her to no longer send partial payments as they would not accept them.

my foreclosure process was taking a turn for the better with the ability to

“I had never endured such a process or the emotional turmoil that followed.

restructure my debt under Chapter 13.”

I was forced to hire an attorney and file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy and to protect my home under the Homestead Act,” she says.

Father and daughter decided to expand their portfolio of homes to the mainland, where Plampin’s personal home was located. “I wanted to put it on

At that time, the mortgage industry was completely backed up, as were

the rental program and see if it would rent. I placed it on VRBO at a very high

the courts. Delays in cases were so prevalent banks were paying owners to

rate, hoping to give me some time to find a place to live with my new beau in

stay in their homes and to maintain the grounds and pools. “Even my own

the interim. I will never forget I put my home on the market in August, and

foreclosure case was dismissed because the defense attorney for the bank that

it was immediately booked for September, a shocking rental to receive for

owned my loan went bankrupt,” says Plampin. “My foreclosure case was later

Florida’s market as a new listing! That’s when it got real.”

renewed by the bank through another attorney.”

Plampin found a beautiful three-bedroom home just down the street, and Sarasota began looking like a ghost town. Friends and colleagues were

all three moved in. “It was a crazy time – me, my boyfriend and my father,

abandoning their homes and moving up north with family. “My father, Roger

living together with all our pets. It was how we supported each other through

Van Wie – who was also in the real estate business and greatly affected by the

the rough times. We were able to save so much money in doing so. At this

housing crisis – lost everything, including his own marriage, all the while

point, my home was successfully rented as a vacation home, my Chapter 13

battling throat cancer. He began to run out of money not soon after me, and

foreclosure was approved, and I had five years to pay off all of my debts.”

desperate to find a means to afford the only asset he had left, his primary residence on Siesta Key, he began to explore the notion of vacation rentals, a

The Cottages on the Key began expanding at an extremely fast pace… now

seemingly up-and-coming lucrative rental market that allowed for outsized

guests who were coming into town were seeking investment opportunities

revenue in comparison to long-term rentals.”

in real estate, taking advantage of the low buy in entry points, and creating second and third homes under the newest vacation travel trend – a vacation

After speaking with the one and only vacation rental management company

rental home, managed by professional rental managers to generate outsized

on the Key, he found himself turned away for not having a pool. “We thought

revenue for their personal retirement plan. It was a pure success that has

how strange it was to be shunned for not having a pool!” says Plampin. “He

boasted over 25% revenue growth year over year. “And here I sit 15 years later,”

decided that if no company would be willing to take on his home for the lack

says Plampin, “with my private home completely paid off, and my company

of one amenity, then he would simply do it himself. My father is a highly

on track to do $16M in revenue this year. My father recently sold his home

analytical, research junkie who loves a good challenge.” He decided he would

on Siesta Key at the peak of the market, and has grown his private retirement

place his home on the one-and-only vacation rental listing site at the time,

portfolio of homes. He is also finally able to enjoy semi-retirement and live

VRBO, a precursor to AirBnB. “Roger hosted his first guest in 2009. The listing

healthy and happy with his beloved chihuahua, Mocha!”

was a huge success, and he began generating good income to pay the bills.”

All Points North Plampin was still working odds and ends jobs, but started helping him on

At 45 years old, Plampin has successfully transformed her initial desperation

the side. “I would clean the homes for the guest arrivals, meet the guests in

into a thriving enterprise. Add to that, she has recently embarked on what

person and show them the nuances of the home. My father and I together

she believes could become an even larger venture by expanding her model

would go over our hospitality strategy to ensure guests would rebook with

nationwide. After over a decade of cultivating her businesses organically,

88

keys to

the kingdom HEATHER PLAMPIN NEARLY LOST IT ALL … THEN HIT THE GROUND RUNNING WITH A SHORT-TERM RENTALS BUSINESS THAT TODAY MANAGES A PORTFOLIO OF 80 PROPERTIES AND TURNS OVER UPWARDS OF $16 MILLION.

HER SECRET? A BIT OF LUCK, PLENTY OF PERSISTENCE, AND A WHOLE LOT OF HOUSE CLEANING.

HEATHER PLAMPIN.

89

USA

TOP: PALACE ON CLEMATIS, SARATOSA, FL. THIS IMAGE: DREAM ISLAND, LIDO KEY, FL.

90

FORTALEZA, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS.

91

USA

POOLSIDE

92

she emphasizes that her growth mindset for both The Cottages and the new

Recently, Plampin launched The Compass Collection to manage luxury

venture, The Compass Collection, is driven not solely by revenue targets, but

vacation rentals remotely. The company utilizes The Cottages’ refined

by a sense of calling.

processes and systems, developed over 15 years, to handle everything for homeowners except on-site maintenance tasks like fixing leaky faucets

“I aim for every guest to experience complete happiness in every possible

or broken garage doors. The Compass Collection aims to collaborate with

way,” says Plampin. “One thing I was such a stickler for at the very beginning

vacation homeowners nationwide, spanning from Park City, Utah, to

is the level of cleanliness. I myself am a self-proclaimed cleaning fanatic,

Nashville, and even to the Hamptons in New York.

and when my father started renting his home, I thoroughly enjoyed being responsible for cleaning after a guest’s departure and ensuring it was

The Compass Collection differentiates itself from other vacation rental

spectacular for the next guest. I wanted everything to be in pristine condition

management companies through its attention to detail and experience. “I

and in its perfect place. Nothing was missing. I knew from listening to other

think that stems from my desire to help owners achieve their goals,” says

guest’s previous stories (there were no online reviews back then) that one of

Plampin. “The uniqueness with TCC is that while it is a new start up, it is built

the major downfalls our competitors exhibited was lack of cleanliness.”

from the ground up, through its mother company, The Cottages on the Key, with over 15 years of industry experience. As I said before, when I initially

Guests who stayed with her company shared nightmare stories about their

started in my endeavors with my father, short-term vacation rental homes

experiences. “You can imagine that staying in someone else’s personal home

were simply an avant-garde travel trend as opposed to the traditional hotel

back then was totally avant garde! So that meant that guests didn’t really

stay.

expect too much. It was commonplace for guests to bring their own cleaning supplies, sheets, and pillows. Owner’s closets were usually still full of hanging

“When I was building our business from scratch, I didn’t have a ‘manual’ or a

clothes and personal effects could be found in drawers and on shelves. I

book of SOP’s to guide me, and I certainly didn’t have access to the technology

knew how disheveled this could make a home appear, along with no real

that the industry has created today. It simply didn’t exist. But today, those

industry cleaning standards. So I set out to create those standards for our

tools and resources are prolific in our now multi-billion dollar industry,

company.” Soon, the cleaning work grew too large for Plampin to handle on

having created millions of jobs that never existed before.” Yet it comes with

a turnover day (when one guest checks out and another checks in the same

a price and mostly makes these tools cost prohibitive to smaller players with

day.) “I decided we needed to hire outside cleaning vendors but that I would

one or two homes, or perhaps a B&B or boutique hotel owner. “I think about

need to provide them a checklist to ensure they cleaned to the level that I felt

that every day and have wondered how I can pay it forward? I was, afterall, an

represented our company’s standards.”

owner in need of help myself, floundering between jobs, trying to make ends meet and going through foreclosure and bankruptcy. I was a good person, just

That simple checklist evolved into a cleaning and inspection system that is

going through a rough time with everyone else. How much better could I have

still in existence today, and which Plampin calls the “CottageClean” standard.

done with access to such great resources had they existed? So why should I

“Now hundreds of our cleaners have been trained in these best practices to

not provide that same level of service to others in need now?”

ensure we maintain our brand standard every single day. While there were no industry standards, our guests were surprised to come into our homes where

“We essentially have grown to a size where we feel that we should share

there were no personal effects, there was room for their belongings, and the

our resources, knowledge and commitment to hospitality to like minded

cleaning was verified and checked by inspectors.”

individuals… and individuals is the key word here. The sales pitch for The Compass Collection is that we provide revenue management along with

Guests were also quite surprised that they had immediate access to the

sales and marketing on behalf of the owner so that they can focus on asset

business owner, and Plampin made sure she didn’t miss a single call. “I would

preservation and the guest experience. We’ll give you a dedicated team that

straight out ask them on their first night whether they were satisfied with the

is specialized to you, and your portfolio, regardless of its size. Let us leverage

level of service or should I send the cleaner back out immediately? They were

our growth and our access to technology to help you succeed. There’s no other

simply astounded that I was even in the same town as them when I called!”

company out there that will give you access to systems and resources that will

Back then, most owner operators lived in different areas of the world, and

empower you, and allow you to control your own destiny. There’s no other

were hard to reach. It certainly was not typical to reach a manager that was

company out there that will literally build you the infrastructure you need to

merely minutes away and ready to drop everything to help guests with an

manage your assets, and give you the manual you need to play the game and

issue.

win.”

“And so, the truest form of our reputation was born. We were known for being

www.thecottagesonthekey.com

the vacation rental company that had boots on the ground, and superior

www.thecompasscollection.com

cleaning services. It later separated us heavily from other competitors, simply

@compasscollectioninc

because we hired only the best cleaners and we paid top dollar for their

@thecottagesinc

services. They were gold to us and we treated them as such. They deserved it. They were the ambassadors that held the outcome of our guest’s first impressions.”

93

SPA EXPERIENCES

THE EAST BY WEST RESORT & SPA EXPERIENCE OFFERS THE NEXT LEVEL IN LUXURY LIFESTYLE TRAVEL AND CONSCIOUS LIVING.

HORSE EMPOWERMENT MEETS EASTERN PHILOSOPHY AT EAST BY WEST SPA EPXERIENCES.

94

ADAM Burkett serves as the CEO of East by West Destination Spa Retreats where he is creating the next level in luxury lifestyle travel and spa living, developing a body, mind and soul spa driven retreat experience and community that aims to change your life for the better.

Adam started his development career building luxury lifestyle residences in the southwest where he offers wellness workshops and concierge services. This was followed by creating his first prototype farm retreat in Kentucky where he developed an equine driven luxury spa retreat that features an indoor riding arena and wellness center.

Today Adam is developing two world class destination spa retreats in New Mexico and at a Ski Resort in Colorado, building luxury residences around highly curated spa amenities that provide guests and residents with experiences to foster transformation, wellness and community, while living a luxury lifestyle.

WILD Magazine caught up with him to talk, mindfulness, Eastern spirituality and Western science ...

95

SPA EXPERIENCES

TOP: SKI COLORADO; THIS PIC: SUSTAINABLE HOMES.

96

ABOVE: EAST BY WEST CEO ADAM BURKETT. RIGHT: RETREAT ROLLOUT

Adam, what distinguishes your resorts from

life forever. The spa driven mission is to empower

What is your long-term vision?

others?

guests and residents to live well and live a life

Our vision over the next five years is to create a roll

Our first brand distinction is that we go far

that is more conscious, powerful, balanced and

out of spa retreats at the finest destinations in the

beyond most developers who just build homes

successful on the road, in the workplace and at

world – in the mountains, deserts, by the sea and

as boxes. We think outside that box and feature

home.

in the great cities.

memories, wow experiences and breakthroughs in

Can you explain the philosophy behind

Is there a selection process for potential residents

wellness and community.

integrating horses and equestrian activities

to ensure alignment with the retreat center’s

into the properties, particularly focusing on the

vision and values, and if so, what does this

How do your resorts address sustainability?

connection to the heart and personal growth?

process entail?

East by West is riding on the waves of change by

What also differentiates The East by West Resort

Easy by West has grown so quickly with the

pioneering in the next generation of Eco-friendly

& Spa Experience is that it features a body, mind

support of early investors and supporters who see

Spa Homes so as to meet today’s megatrend in the

and spirit horse empowerment program that

the opportunity to reimagine how we “live” and

hospitality industry, incorporating an eco-friendly

offer conscious riding (such as horse whispering)

the opportunity to consciously create intentional

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97

UNCONVENTIONAL LIFE

JULES, what does an unconventional life mean to you?

podcast and call it ‘Unconventional Life’, to tell the stories of people following

Living an Unconventional Life means committing to bringing your soul’s

non-traditional paths. They offered to partner with me to have it be on Forbes

greatest gifts into form. It means believing you deserve a 10/10 “HELL

30U30 and embed the episodes in my Forbes articles.

YES” life, and are capable of achieving wealth in all areas: money, career,

I still remember the day in early 2016 when I was sitting outside of the Iceland

spirituality, relationships, health. I believe your life force is your most

hot springs on a portable wifi device with my then-boyfriend, and (thank God)

precious commodity, and you have the power to be the architect of your own

copywriter, who was with me when I hit send on my first ever blog post and

world.

podcast just three weeks later.

When you embody the Unconventional Life, you dive headfirst into a path

Since then I’ve built a global community of high-performing entrepreneurs,

in alignment with your deepest desires. It’s all about growth, expanding the

creatives, and thought leaders. People who say yes to living a life outside of

realm of what is predictable to possible to releasing and re-releasing old

what is conventional or predictable. People who realize, “so I can make money

patterns, and taking big leaps for the potential of what you don’t know that

in the world, but now what?” How do you also have great relationships,

you don’t know, living in the field of miracles to make it all happen.

lifestyle, health, travel, impact, and so much more? People who crave the ‘and’ reality – a holistic perspective of success.

You accept that you are capable of creating enormous impact. You are the source of transformation for others. You deserve a life that surpasses your

People, like myself, who have felt like they have been lone wolves in the

wildest dreams. You are courageous enough to bet on yourself and allow your

world. Like they have never really fit in. Where from the outside everything

wisdom to ripple through the world.

“looks” pretty good. Yet on the inside, there is this nagging feeling telling you there is more. It may even be nagging at you right now. You may feel it when

When did you first realize that there was a life outside of the box? Did you

you wake up in the morning or in the shower or on the way to work.

have a eureka moment?

After suffering a near-death experience in 2015, everything changed for me.

For most of us, we have been conditioned to ignore that feeling or knowing.

I remember that morning like it was yesterday. It was a beautiful summer

To pretend it’s not there or to stuff it down. That you “should” be happy for

morning at Stanley Lake Reservoir in Colorado. I was out wakeboarding with

your job, or a stable income, or kids, or family, or what you have, and to not

the boys. We were all playing a game to see who could launch off the wake to

rock the boat. That is what I did for many years before I had my near-death

get the most air. As the oldest of five and a former competitive gymnast and

experience. I fixated on setting more goals, creating more companies, more

snowboarder, I became fixated on winning. Finally, after an hour of mis-

clients, and more money to avoid the inconvenience of feeling there may be

attempts, I succeeded. I hit the wake, launched higher than I ever had, and

another truth of why I am here. It took me almost dying and coming back for

immediately came down, caught an edge, and face-planted.

me to realize there is another way.

About an hour later I began to lose feeling in my arms and legs and

How many lives have you affected, unconventionally, to date?

immediately knew something wasn’t right. A few friends rushed me to

Unconventional Life has reached millions of people in over 75 different

the hospital and my next memory was coming out of the MRI and being

countries with 150+ Forbes articles and 300+ podcast episodes and has been

approached by a white figure and six black shadow council members. I

ranked the #1 event for entrepreneurs to attend by Inc Magazine. I have

remember having a conversation in this out-of-body experience where they

created sold-out retreats on six different continents, from castle towns in Italy

said, “Jules you have more work to do in the world, do you want to do it?”

to private islands in Madagascar, to a super yacht in Croatia, to tree houses in Nicaragua, Nile Cruises in Italy, private islands in Fiji, and now our Nepal

At the time the doctors thought my neck might have been broken or I might

event in December 2023. I have had the pleasure of coaching thousands

have been paralyzed, and I remember saying, “Yes, as long as I don’t come

of people through my various events, online coaching programs and

back as a vegetable”. In that next moment, I was zapped back into my body.

masterminds, and really believe in the business of transformation at scale.

I felt this energy forge my neck back together and shoot down my spine, and the moment I woke up everything shifted. It was the start of my life being

How important is the philosophy of freedom to what you do at UL?

created through me rather than being created by me.

Freedom is the core of living an Unconventional Life. I believe true freedom comes when you can master deep listening; the ability to release attachment

Weeks later I got a call from a friend who was partnering with the 17

to a specific outcome and discover the opportunities that show up in real-

Sustainable Development Goals at the United Nations who asked me if I

time. It’s so easy to get fixated on achieving a result that you don’t hear the

wanted to be a global ambassador for the People & Planet Foundation for

signs that you need to pivot. Yet when you give yourself permission to course-

education. I remember being on the phone, laughing silently to myself, still

correct you can access greater alignment with your true desires and uncover

in a neck brace, being like, “this isn’t really the best time, having just had this

possibilities far beyond what you could have imagined. I love having the

accident,” and yet I heard this voice tell me to tell her about “Create U”, an

freedom to allow life to unfold in miraculous ways and work in tandem with

initiative to reimagine higher education.

the opportunities that show up all around me.

On the way to the UN, I got invited to Forbes 30U30 (30 Under 30) in Boston,

The more you practice this relationship to deep listening, the more consistent

and then months later they asked me if I wanted to start writing for them.

and reliable your intuition becomes. Then the more free you are to grow

I heard this ‘voice’ yet again guide me to share that I wanted to launch a

into the truth of who you are and uncover the gifts your soul wants to

98

JULES SCHROEDER CAME BACK FROM THE DEAD WITH A MISSION TO LIVE AN UNCONVENTIONAL LIFE. TODAY SHE CREATES EXPERIENCES AROUND THE WORLD TO TEACH ENTREPRENEURS & THOUGHT LEADERS HOW TO DO THE SAME.

INSPIRED – AND INSPIRING. 99

UNCONVENTIONAL LIFE

THE SONG NEVER REMAINS THE SAME. 100

express in this lifetime. I believe this can only happen in community and

I took the leap and invested thousands of dollars in high-level vocal

in the reflection of others. It is why I see such success in people having big

mentorship, devoting myself to the craft.

transformational moments at our events and that being the catalyst for big shifts, especially when they continue the work through our various coaching

Life surprised me in spectacular ways. A friend put me in touch with a music

programs and masterminds we offer as support in between the events. When

producer who turned out to be the manager of an artist I deeply admire,

we are in an environment where we are with people doing the impossible we

Lauren Daigle. I had to catch my breath when this guy said “YES” to managing

get to believe in ourselves and be the match for our most resonant and wild

and mentoring me! For the past year, I’ve been working in Nashville creating

expression for why we are here.

a non-denominational worship album under the name Jules King, my mom’s maiden name. I remember a moment in a song writing session a few months

How important is travel to you in your mission to offer people freedom?

ago, glancing over a piano to see a wall with 27 Grammys, surrounded by

It’s everything! It is the ultimate pattern-interrupt. Travel connects people

pros of the caliber I only ever dreamed to work with. It was a moment of

to life’s most extraordinary experiences. Seeing the world sparks a desire to

self-reckoning, where I embodied the current of transformation I teach at my

create a life you love, and breaks you out of habitual ways of being.

events. We have written 18 songs this year with some of the best names in the industry working with a strategic partnership with a major Christian label

Why does freedom always start with finances?

out of Nashville. We are launching early next year with an album and a series

Growing up my Dad used to say, “freedom is not freedom without economic

of singles. The most beautiful thing is that as I stretch and grow, I bring new

freedom.” It’s so true. Money is optionality. And when you can master money

facets of that evolution into my leadership. It’s like a crescendo of possibility

as an energetic currency, you learn to own the value you provide to the world.

that extends far beyond what I can see. I love bringing my soul’s gifts into

The world becomes an expansive place of opportunity. I truly believe that

form, and helping others do the same.

making money is about mindset because abundance is an experience. It’s not just about material wealth; it’s about being able to wake up every day and say

What makes UL different from other similar companies out there teaching

I get to choose a life where I thrive. My mission is to create abundance in all

financial and lifestyle freedom?

areas of my life: relationships, health, spirituality, career, and of course my

The community. Every single person at our events is playing a big game in the

bank account.

world: entrepreneurs, creatives, thought leaders, influencers, and visionaries.

When you sit down for a meal, you’ll be blown away by the people around

What do you consider to be a successful UL trip?

you. And the events are designed to blaze past the superficial and create

I measure success by the f*ck yeah feeling that gets created when you are

instant, authentic connections. We believe collaboration is everything, and

truly in aligned and resonant energy. The feeling where you look back and

strategically introduce people that can co-support each other. Each applicant

you’re like, that trip, that moment, it changed my life. It is all about the deep

is carefully reviewed to maintain a highly curated environment.

connections that are forged, the breakthroughs that are created, and the way people’s futures are altered in an instant. I like to say these events create the

Also, everything we do revolves around “pattern interrupt methodology”—

field of miracles. When you have resonant heart and brain coherence you

the process of creating strategic pattern interrupts that break people out of

can shortcut the time of creation by creating from the field and bringing it

habitual ways of thinking and being so they can experience a new version

into form. There aren’t really words to describe watching someone release

of themselves. We focus on “timeline hopping”— i.e., experiencing rapid

anything in their way of the life they truly desire, and at the same time meet

breakthroughs and life-changing downloads that hop you into new domains

key collaborators that will help them fulfill that vision. It’s breathtaking to

of success, faster than you ever thought possible. We help people return to the

collectively shed the weight of the past while being in a bucket list location.

core of who they are, so they can take radical ownership of the life they are creating. Every event is a catalyst for rapid clarity, soul renewal, and vision-

Where do you source the trainers you use in UL retreats?

activation.

The selection process is driven by my profound appreciation for the art of event facilitation, as I carefully choose leaders who exemplify mastery in

Furthermore, it’s unique to host retreats in bucket list locations around the

their respective domains, whether it be in life or business. These exceptional

world. It’s like one “pinch me” moment after another when you can network

individuals embody the true principles of living an unconventional life

at an Egyptian temple, or a yacht in Croatia, or a private island in Fiji, or in

and inspire and energize our event participants. I always have a personal

the Himalayas. Lastly, I’m a total geek about designing experiences. I consider

connection to the facilitators either through relationships I’ve formed

“event planning” to be “the art of experience design.” I have even created a

throughout my career, my podcast, or referrals from close friends of mine.

program called “The Art of Experience”, where I teach others how I do what I do to create their own events and additional revenue streams into their

What’s been the most satisfying aspect personally to what you do?

business. I also produce events for some of the biggest names in the world. I

I believe that your personal story is a mirror for the transformation you create

have done events on all 7+ continents including most recently taking Jimmy

for others. Without a doubt, the values of the Unconventional Life brand

Buffet, right before he passed away, to Antarctica. Every detail is a sensory

have transformed my life. Through this work, I’ve learned to channel the

opportunity for participants. Every variable contributes to the global current

core essence of my soul’s gifts. The best example of this in action is my music

of transformation. In this way, obsessive intentionality creates magic.

career. I always knew I wanted to sing, but had to conquer a lot of imposter syndrome to believe that I could reach the same heights of success in music

www.unconventionallifeshow.com

as in business. I did a lot of work to release the limiting beliefs about what

IG @liveunconventional

I was capable of as a vocal artist. In the same way I would coach my clients,

FB @unconventionallifeshow

I got present to the fact that this area of my expression was non-negotiable.

101

UNCONVENTIONAL LIFE

UNSCHOOLING UNICORNS A MAVERICK MAMA’S JOURNEY FROM SOUTH AFRICA TO MAURITIUS VIA TAIWAN.

IN a world where conformity reigns supreme,

power of the digital realm, unlocking the secrets

party, because with Starrwyn at the helm, every

there are those who dare to dance to the beat of

to online success and paving the way for a life of

day is a magical adventure waiting to unfold.

their own drum, painting the sky with the vibrant

freedom and flexibility.

But wait, there’s more to this enchanting tale! As

colors of their unique journey. Enter Starrwyn, a sassy lifestyle maverick whose unconventional

At the heart of Starrwyn’s philosophy lies the

Starrwyn’s children have grown, they’ve blossomed

approach to education and adventure has

belief that age is nothing but a number, and that

into entrepreneurs in their own right, each adding their own splash of color to the family’s

rewritten the script of family life.

vibrant tapestry.

Originating from the kaleidoscopic landscapes of South Africa, Starrwyn

Her daughter, Asia-Faith, was adopted

embarked on a whirlwind adventure

from Taiwan during their time living

fueled by a passion for unschooling

there. Now, she’s not just a barista at

her children and a zest for cultural

Kind, her brother Willow-River’s coffee

exploration. Dissatisfied with the

shop in La Gaulette, Mauritius, but also

cookie-cutter confines of traditional

a talented singer-songwriter, enchanting

schooling, she embraced unschooling as

audiences with her soulful melodies and

a radical act of rebellion, transforming

poignant lyrics.

every moment into a canvas for Willow-River, the eldest son, is the

creativity and curiosity to flourish.

proud owner of Willow Surf Center, With a flick of her metaphorical wand,

where he and his brothers, Talis-Rain

Starrwyn whisked her brood away to

and Keanu-Storm, teach the art of wing

the bustling streets of Taiwan, where

foiling and kitesurfing. Located on the

the clash of East and West served as

pristine shores of Le Morne Beach in

a playground for their imaginations.

Mauritius, it’s a dream destination for

Amidst the neon-lit chaos and the

water sports enthusiasts from around

fragrant whispers of street food stalls,

the globe.

she nurtured her children’s sense of wonder, fostering a love for diversity

Meanwhile, Talis-Rain and Keanu-

and a hunger for adventure that knows

Storm have also carved out their own entrepreneurial niches. Talis-Rain lends

no bounds. it’s never too late to unleash your inner unicorn

his expertise to Willow Surf Center alongside

But the adventure didn’t end there. Oh no,

and chase your wildest dreams. Drawing upon

his brothers, while Keanu-Storm runs a thriving

Starrwyn had her sights set on something even

her own journey of reinvention and resilience,

scooter rental business, offering visitors to

more magical: the sun-kissed shores of Mauritius,

she encourages others to embrace their quirks

Mauritius the freedom to explore the island’s

a tropical oasis nestled in the heart of the Indian

and embrace the magic within, guiding them on

beauty at their own pace.

Ocean. Here, amidst the swaying palms and the

a whimsical journey towards a life of abundance

crystal-clear waters, she found her tribe, weaving

and joy.

Together, this family of mavericks embodies the spirit of adventure and entrepreneurship, proving

together the threads of her unconventional lifestyle amidst the island’s laid-back charm and

In a world where conformity is the norm and

that with a dash of courage and a sprinkle of

vibrant culture.

conventionality reigns supreme, Starrwyn stands

imagination, anything is possible. So here’s to

as a vibrant reminder that life is meant to be lived

Starrwyn and her band of unschooling unicorns,

Living life as a maverick mama, Starrwyn has

on your own terms. Her journey from South Africa

blazing trails and spreading magic wherever they

become a guiding light for those over 40 looking to

to Taiwan and Mauritius is not just a tale of travel

roam!

sprinkle a little fairy dust on their personal brand

and adventure, but a testament to the power of

and business ventures. With a wink and a nod,

sass and spirit in shaping a life that sparkles with

she empowers her fellow unicorns to harness the

joy and possibility. So grab your glitter and join the

ABOVE: STARR TRAVELERS. 102

www.starrwyn.com

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Dream a little. Travel a lot.

UNCONVENTIONAL LIFE

the life of ROBOTICS ENGINEER, BIG WAVE SURFER, ENTREPRENEUR BRIAN SWAN EMBODIES CHANGE . . .

AND SLAYS DRAGONS FOR FUN.

EYES FORWARD. 104

BRIAN, the first thing I noticed from your

With the ice now broken we entered a huge

impression on me. An impression that remains

resume, and having known you for a while, is

boardroom. A small group of engineers occupied

deep in my psyche today. That period in my life

that you used to be a robotics engineer. Tell us

four of the 50 chairs as we sat across from each

taught me to open my mind to a plethora of

about that …

other with their backs to the ship. During our

possibilities: from a Midwestern boy with limited

When I was a senior in high school I had a

conversation I couldn’t help but gaze past them

understanding of what the world had on offer,

10-minute meeting with my guidance counselor

through a huge window staring out at the soon-to-

to a world we have created years later, that quite

and he asked me what I was good at … and I said

be interstellar craft.

frankly knows no boundaries.

was one of the top professions post university, so

Handing them our proposal for Thrust Actuators,

When did you meet Rhonda?

I made a decision there and then to become an

I went through the details over the next 30

Around the same time I was at university I went

engineer. That dictated the next 14 years of my

minutes before shaking hands and heading out

to Australia in my third year for a study program,

life. What followed was four years of university

the door. I hadn’t even left the parking lot when

which is where I learned to surf. Later I only

and a decade in the corporate world working for

my boss called and said, “Nice $60K order Brian.”

accepted jobs if there was surf, which landed me

Parker Hannifin as a robotics engineer living in

I was like, I’m just leaving the facility ... I don’t

in California. That’s where I met my wife Rhonda,

San Diego.

know who these people are, but they have a

and then in 2006 she literally retired me and I

freaking 100m rocket on their manufacturing

entered the world of digital marketing.

math and science. He told me that engineering

I remember you once telling me a story about

floor. What an incredible experience that was.

meeting Elon Musk at one of your places of

This was the real deal and my new friend, Elon

In the years that followed we went from affiliate

work…

Musk, and I had been sitting in SpaceX.

marketing in the personal development industry to creating “Freedom-Preneur” programs that

As a surfer living in San Diego covering the Western USA, I learned to schedule my sales calls

What do you still carry with you from that time?

helped people make the jump from regular jobs

for Southern California around the surf reports.

What’s interesting is that even though it took

to running a laptop lifestyle anywhere around the

If I could get on the water either before or after

place two decades ago, I still don’t relate much to

world. We were out traveling since 2008, working

my sales calls when I traveled it was a good day. I

my time as a robotics engineer.

online as one of the first digital nomad families.

swell was on the way for Wednesday, so I asked

You’ve transformed yourself a few times over,

I also see you at your home sometimes near the

for an 11am meet, giving me the opportunity to

then another thing I wondered about reading

big waves in Bali … Surfing is such a deep and

surf “Trestles” in San Clemente beforehand.

your CV … how has change been a part of your

difficult thing to do, how does it relate to your

life so much?

life’s thinking?

Passing by LAX I made my way to El Segundo.

Change has been my whole existence, and it

I remember stepping off the plane in Australia

Usually my mind would be on the impending

all started from when my father died of Aids

and I went to the beach and saw a girl in a bikini

sales call but since I was deep in the projects,

when I was 16 years old. My world was turned

and a guy catching a head-high barrel. At that

carjacking was more top of mind as I pulled into a

upside down when he broke the news that he

moment I made the decision to be a surfer. Fast

very unassuming facility. “Really,” I thought. “You

was unwell, terminal in fact. At the age of 11

forward 29 years and I’m still as excited by surfing

build rockets here?”

years old, coming to terms with the knowledge

as I was on that day.

looked on Surfline and saw that a strong southerly

that my Dad wouldn’t be around forever was The receptionist ushered me into a room

unfathomable. The thought had never entered my

Today I’m 49, and at this age what I have learned

where a waiting rocket man greeted me with

mind.

is that I have to keep my body in peak physical condition in order to deal with the life or death

an outstretched hand. He walked me down a long corridor before turning the corner where

What he did next is the stuff of movies. In fact,

situations that big waves can bring. This relates

I couldn’t believe what I saw. I gazed out onto

years after his passing, Morgan Freeman and

to my life thinking in all areas. I’ve taken this on

a 100m-long rocket sitting on the hangar floor.

Jack Nicholson brought a similar tale to the big

with my body, my relationship with my wife and

Choosing my words more carefully, I said, “That’s

screen in the movie The Bucket List. But my Dad

my daughter, my spirituality, and all my business

a real rocket,” and he replied with, “Of course. I’m

was different, he did it with his family in tow

ventures.

a rocket scientist…” and we both chuckled.

and we began a journey of search and discovery

@unstoppablesurfer

during his final years, one that has left a lasting

www.unstoppablebrandingagency.com

105

MENTAL HEALTH

A SPOKEN WORD POEM

BY HANALEI SWAN

FIND YOUR FLOOR. 106

SOMETIMES, I forget how it all began. I

Will I ever be enough? Do enough? Feel enough?

think back to the moment when I could feel

Enough, enough, enough. Shame settled all

I’d tell her to release the pressure. You place

the wind flowing through my hair, and all

over me like the dust from a construction site,

bricks of worry on top of your body, building

I could hear was laughter in the air. Beams

making its home in the cracks and creases

your towers taller and taller, crushing you

of sun danced on my skin as I danced with

of my skin as these skyscrapers of worry

smaller and smaller until you feel like nobody.

my feet in the sea, completely carefree. Sand

continued to rise from my mind. Each floor

scattered across my face like a painting from

built with self-doubt and missed opportunities,

I’d reassure her that you are somebody. And

the ocean. I found my heart buried in the sand;

overshadowing the vibrant landscape of my

no matter the pressure you may feel from

on the beach, I was fully me, like raw light,

younger self, turning my aspirations into mere

the world around you, you still matter.

undisturbed by the pressures of life. I never

foundations for what could have been. I could

You are here not to die, not to just stay alive, but

thought anything would change, this infinite

no longer stand the person I was within.

to truly live. Promise me that you will truly live.

love for the world around me and for myself.

I need a disclaimer plastered on my body

If I could see my younger self again, I would sit

Now, I often forget that little

for anyone who may dare talk to me, telling

her down and tell her I’m sorry. I’m sorry for all

kid is still inside of me.

them not to worry because I hated myself

the time I spent thinking I wasn’t good enough.

as much as they probably hated me. I’ll tell As you grow up, you realize the world is growing

them all the lies they thought about me are

I’m sorry for all the hopeless nights dwelling

faster than you. Things that once seemed

probably true, and I’ll wear their lies with

over the things I could never do right.

small when you were young suddenly become

pride because I have begun to believe they are

skyscrapers looming over you. The pressure

real. You don’t know how desperately I want to

I am sorry for pushing you to the side and

from the sky pushes down on you like bricks,

change the person I am within and swap into

leaving you to dry, like a flower starved of light.

becoming heavier and heavier the longer time

someone else’s skin. It’s easy to fall into this

I watched you slowly begin to wilt away, and

ticks. When I finally opened my eyes and looked

trap of losing yourself when you believe the

I never did anything about it because I found

up to the sky, I realized how small I actually was.

whole world wants you to be someone else.

comfort in the falling of your petals and my

One of the first times I felt small was under stage

I forget that little kid who found light in the

your petals still did not bloom, and I realized

lights. The moment my breath became short, and

darkest of places and painted with the ever-

how empty I was without you. Because you were

my voice became grand, bouncing off the walls

changing hues of the sunset is still within me,

the light in my eyes that always managed to find

and into the crowd of hundreds of people all

buried underneath towers and the concrete

the simple beauties held within life. Watching

waiting to hear what I had planned. Illuminated

rubble of lies I told myself, saying I would

the delicate beams of sunlight filtering through

underneath a microscope, the pressure set in. I

never be enough, like a bird in a cage trapped

tree leaves. The feeling of sand slipping through

could only wonder if I was doing enough for these

without a key, waiting to be let free. She is still

your hands. The ways the dust dances under the

people to be proud of me. I could only imagine

there, but over time her voice has become bare

light, like glitter thrown into the sky. No matter

what they thought of me. Who is this girl barely

as I have learned to ignore the tendency to

how faint, I can still see through your eyes. I

thirteen, telling me what to think? Look at the

listen, to put my ear up to the door of the cage.

would remind you that the stars in the sky are

way she walks, look at the way she talks. I bet

I had begun to silence the want to be free.

not as far as they seem, these buildings around

newfound solitude. But as the seasons changed,

you are so much smaller than you believe them

she can’t even come up with a coherent thought.

Like a solitary star fading into twilight,

to be. You are so much bigger than you know.

sometimes I wish I could go back in time to

Let your roots grow through the concrete, in

As my years passed, these towns populated by

grasp that fading light before it slipped beyond

between the little cracks of the streets, and deep

the problems within my mind grew into cities.

the horizon, where memories and possibilities

into the soil beneath you. Watch as those cities

If you ever want to feel small, go to a city. While

intertwine like constellations in the night sky.

begin to dissipate as your roots spread, and

I could only imagine what they thought of me.

the love for yourself begins to regrow again.

you’re there, walking down the neverending streets, you’ll wonder if you really matter in

If I could, I would look that little girl in the eye

the grand scheme of things. If you were to

and show her all the things she could never see,

Those buildings with bricks made of the worries

leave this place would that change a thing, or

help her remember all the lessons she lost, lift

you gave yourself and the problems you’ve

would life continue on never to remember your

her up, and show her that the sky isn’t so scary.

collected that you’ve held on to so dearly are not structurally sound, remember who you

name? It probably would never remember my name. These thoughts corrupted my brain.

I’d tell her to never be afraid to cry. Let the tears

really are and knock those buildings down.

that pour from your eyes soak into your skin and release the emotions you’ve held within.

www.hanaleiswan.com

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MENTAL HEALTH

bridging the gap IN THE TAPESTRY OF HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS, WE ALL TREAD THE DELICATE PATH OF SEEKING CONNECTION, WRITES KAVI WEBER.

HAVE you ever felt alone among friends? As if

connection is not reciprocated, but you’ll never

them feel guilty, but rather inspired to support

you were having a conversation, but nobody was

know if nobody addresses it. It’s about taking

you.

really listening to you. In this difficult situation,

responsibility for your role in the relationship by

when you reached out for support, they didn’t

expressing your desires. That is the only thing

They also have the right to say no to you. It would

show up. It seemed like your friends were

you have control over. When you communicate

be easy to take that personally. But in reality?

uncomfortable with moving beyond the surface

maturely and effectively, the way the other

There could be any reason they did not want to

level.

person responds will teach you exactly what you

be relied upon. If someone is not willing to fill

need to know.

that place in your life, you need to know. Some friends may have different desires and intentions

Maybe, in those moments, you asked yourself: “What would happen if I really needed support?

In order to do that, you first have to ask yourself

than you. And that’s okay, as long as it’s known

Will I feel comfortable the next time I ask for

what, exactly, you want? Do you want to feel

and communicated.

support from the people I trust?”

heard? Do you want people to respect your time?

It’s a scary feeling, and, unfortunately, a very

By making your desires specific, they become

This last part might bother a few people, but

achievable for the other person.

it’s important. On top of your responsibility to communicate, comes your responsibility to make

common one. This negative experience is necessary for your growth and evolution as a

Next, you want to ask the person if they’re open

the people who support you feel appreciated,

person, moving us away from unfulfilling or even

to having the conversation, rather than springing

and your responsibility to offer what you wish

toxic relationships.

it on the other person randomly – it’s all about

to receive. These tenets of reciprocity help the

timing. This will make them more likely to

people around you to feel good about being in

We all need support in different forms: some

hear you out, because it doesn’t feel like you are

your life. I think that’s what we all want. So if you

people lean on their families, while others

suddenly attacking them.

notice someone’s been showing up for you a lot, ask how you can show up for them and watch the

find friendships, mentorships and other

bond grow tighter.

affirmative relationships. Support is one of

Lastly, you want to own all your emotions. This

the fundamental aspects of human relation:

means that you speak in a way that does not

providing someone else with help, understanding

blame the other person. This means using the

In the tapestry of human relationships, we all

and empathy. Closeness in a relationship implies

phrase: “when you do X, I feel Y.” This keeps the

tread the delicate path of seeking understanding,

mutual support: being unsupported in a close

situation objective and focused on the topic at

connection, and support. The beauty of the

relationship is unbalanced.

hand.

human experience lies in the ability to bridge gaps, to mend what’s frayed, and to weave

Does this mean your relationship with this

For more insight, I recommend the book

stronger bonds of connection. Each vulnerable

person is toxic, and you should cut them off? Not

Authentic Relating by Ryel Kestano.

conversation becomes a step towards true

just yet! There is likely a gap in communication,

Now, if the other person is receptive and

authenticity. I hope that everyone can find

meaning they might not have any idea how

committed to meeting your requests, you work it

the people who treat them with honesty and

you feel. You could think that your desire for

out with them. Remember, the key is not to make

compassion.

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MENTAL HEALTH

L E A R N I N G HOW T O

HANALEI SWAN DIVES INTO THE ART OF NAVIGATING THE ROUGH TIMES AND RISING ABOVE LIFE’S CHALLENGES.

WEIGHTLESS. 110

EVERYONE experiences moments of

underwater. Instinctively, you might want to

internal struggle – be it anxiety, self-doubt,

struggle against it, but you soon realize that

depression, excess stress, or other mental

resisting and trying to swim frantically only makes

health challenges. When going through these

you sink faster. In such a high-stress situation,

rough patches it can feel like sinking beneath

the best approach is to calm your mind and let

the surface or struggling to stay afloat.

the wave carry you, before going to take a breath again. This applies to managing your emotions

I often find myself submerging under the rough

too. Imagine stress as a wave crashing over you;

waters of my problems, and letting myself get

the more you fight it, the deeper you’ll sink.

pulled into a whirlpool of internal chaos. It is effortless to allow myself to sink into anxiety and

Even when you have found ways to float better,

become submerged by the stress. Since becoming

life can still get pretty rough. These could be

more aware of myself I’ve realized that when

brought on by major life changes, unexpected

life presents these challenges we get to make a

events, or relapses in mental health. It’s important

decision whether we want to sink, fight, or float.

to recognize that floating doesn’t mean avoiding challenges, but rather facing them with resilience

It’s easy to stay afloat when the water is calm but

and adaptability. Even when these challenges

the real challenge comes from learning to keep

may arise you can adapt to the waves by relying

tranquil when life puts new waves in the way.

on your life vest. These problems will just

Floating in the situations of rough water is about

become another wave that will pass you by.

finding balance within your mind and allowing yourself to rise above struggles, while still

The journey of learning to float is ongoing and

acknowledging their presence. Instead of ignoring

takes time to integrate into your life. However,

the things in your life that cause worry or distress,

your personal growth journey and the lessons

just like the feeling of sinking in rough water,

you learn about yourself are far more important

you can learn to manage these emotions more

than any final destination. Consider what in your

effectively, like calming yourself and your breath so

life causes stress and ask yourself: Is this where

you can begin to float above the surface once again.

I want to invest my energy? Does this weigh me down or lift me up? Is it worth the struggle? With

When learning how to float you can adopt different

simple questions like these, it becomes easier

techniques and tools to flow with life’s challenges.

to identify what you need to release or how you

Think of these techniques like your life vests and

may need to adjust in your response to the stress.

practices you can implement into your day to find

Decide whether you’d rather channel your energy

calm in the sea. This could include mindfulness

into fighting the current or riding the wave.

practices, self-care, creating art, journaling your thoughts, setting boundaries, and practicing

In the unpredictable seas of life, we all face

positive self-talk. Though they may sound simple,

moments of turmoil and turbulence. These

implementing small things like this can move your

challenges, like the crashing waves, can seem

energy into a better and less draining direction.

overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel like we’re sinking. However, our response to these challenges

When I begin to feel these waves and relapses of

is a choice we can all make. Learning to float

anxiety I find myself needing time alone and use

amidst the rough waters of our problems is a skill

this time to refocus my energy on creativity, giving

that requires practice, but it’s a skill that can be

me space to find calm when I would usually dwell

honed. By adopting mindfulness tools and practices

on my thoughts. Maintaining these practices and

as our life vests, we can navigate these challenges

tools of mindfulness when encountering a new

with greater resilience and clarity. Embracing

wave may initially feel challenging. However,

the current rather than battling it allows us to

when confronted with the choice of sinking,

conserve our energy and stay afloat. Remember,

struggling, or staying afloat, remembering to

even when the waves are relentless, the journey of

refocus your energy and anchor yourself to your

personal growth is the true destination. So, the next

life vest becomes crucial to float past the wave.

time you feel the undertow of stress, ask yourself where you want to invest your energy and whether

Embracing the current rather than battling it

it’s worth the struggle. Choose to float, adapt,

can save you from sinking. As a surfer, one of

and grow, for in doing so, you’ll find the strength

the first things you learn is how to stay calm

to weather any storm that life may bring.

when getting hit by a wave. While surfing, you’re bound to fall off your board and be tossed around

www.hanaleiswan.com 111

NETWORK NEWS

FEARLESS. 112

WILD WHEN POWERHOUSE RHONDA SWAN PLANS AN EVENT, SHE DOES NOT DO SO LIGHTLY. THE BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, CEO AND ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT RECENTLY PUT TOGETHER THE WILDEST BOOK LAUNCH OF THE YEAR BACKED

BY A RED CARPET EXTRAVAGANZA.

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NETWORK NEWS

WOMEN Gone Wild: The Feminine Guide To

Read your way to success

Justine Siegal, an American baseball coach, sports educator and the founder of Baseball For

Fearless Living launched to acclaim at Barnes and Noble in Huntington Beach, California,

Women Gone Wild: Feminine Guide to Fearless

All offered her experience and knowledge from

with a gathering of authors and supporters

Living Wealth Edition is about redefining wealth

the stage. In 2009, Siegal became the first female

attending the book signing event and later a red

and encouraging women to build their own

coach of a professional men’s baseball team

carpet extravaganza in their honor.

financial success, says Swan. The book offers

when she worked for the Brockton Rox, in the

insights and strategies for wealth creation and

independent Canadian American Association of

The book is the first edition in a four-part series

management, with a focus on the meaning of

Professional Baseball.

covering Wealth, Intuition, Leadership and

W.I.L.D – Wealth, Intuition, Leadership and

Diversity (W.I.L.D) published by Rhonda Swan

Diversity.

Jen Welter, an American football coach who is currently linebackers coach for the Vegas

of the Unstoppable Branding Agency.

“This powerful book involves 25 female authors

Vipers of the XFL, brought more sporting tales

Said Rhonda, a five-times best selling author,

from all walks of life, and their stories reflect a

of triumph. She was a defensive coaching intern

CEO and advocate for female empowerment:

wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and

for the National Football League’s Arizona

“Anyone reading this book will be moved by the

challenges,” she said. “Together, they create a

Cardinals during their training camp and the

transparency of the shared experiences and

strong message of resilience, empowerment,

2015 preseason, making her the first female

inspired by the vulnerability of the writers. I

and hope, providing a much-needed boost of

coaching intern in the NFL.

like to describe this edition as a Chicken Soup

inspiration and motivation.”

Swan says: ‘Each of these powerful voices as

For The Soul-type book focussed on female The 25 authors in the book include Rhonda

well as our other incredible speakers ensured

Swan, Diana Wentworth, Jamie Anderson,

our message to uplift women everywhere came

The Wealth Edition is about redefining

Danette May, Danelle Delgado, Adriana Alvarez,

through loud and clear.‘’

wealth in every area of life, says Swan, and

Hanalei Swan, Camberly Gilmartin, April Ryan,

showing women the power of connection and

Michelle Beltran, Kortney Murray, Stefanie

Kamin Samuel, First female African-American

collaboration by sharing stories designed to

Bruns, Blair Kaplan Venables, Ania Halama,

Helicopter pilot for the Navy, also starred at

support each other.

Karen Whelan, Tarryn Reeves, Dana Kay, Ebony

the event. She began her professional career in

Swank, Barbie Layton, Genevieve Searle, Shar

the U.S. Navy as first female African-American

Moore, Michale Gabriel, and Robin Mullin.

helicopter pilot and holds a PhD in Positive

empowerment.

“Women Gone Wild is a safe space for women to

Neuropsychology, a Masters of Science in

share their WILD stories and what they have been through to get to where they are today,”

Swan explained why Women Gone Wild

Information Systems, a Masters of Arts in

she added. “These are stories of triumph, failure

partnered with She Talks for the launch: “It’s

Spiritual Psychology, and a Masters of Science

and ultimately inspiration.”

an important collaboration and partnership for

in Spiritual Science.

us. In the end, we both want the same thing: to Swan and her authors partnered with the

offer a platform for women to share their stories

Kamin’s unique background combines both

founder of She Talks, Julie Ducharme and

and knowledge. We want to break down gender

technical and soft skills, allowing her to assist

Combat Boots To High Heels [501c charity]

barriers and promote and empower women.’’

individuals in taking practical action in the real world that gets dramatic results.

supporting female veterans, for their official book launch and red carpet event, which

Speakers at the event included experienced

featured a host of high-profile female figures,

voices including Sharon Lechter, author, and

Said Swan: “We’re grateful to all our authors,

celebrities, renowned authors and inspirational

businesswoman. Lechter has worked on the

attendees and speakers and we look forward to

speakers.

President’s Advisory Council on Financial

our next edition of Women Gone Wild which we

Literacy.

know will add to the significant body of work we’re putting together to enhance and empower

The events included book signings and entertainment from American Idol’s

Also offering her experience and insight was

Jessica Meuse.

Diana Wentworth, author of seven best-selling and award-winning books and the co-author of two Chicken Soup for the Soul titles. Film rights to her romantic memoir, Send Me Someone, were purchased recently by the Lifetime Network.

114

the lives of women around the world.” www.wildmag.com

GROWTH FACTORS BREAKING into male-dominated industries can be challenging yet

Resource Strategies

rewarding for women, and despite the hurdles in the financial sector, there are successful women entrepreneurs who serve as inspiration.

Expanding a business can be a challenging and overwhelming task for any entrepreneur, especially for women who may be working in male-

One founder created a company to empower women in business

dominated industries. However, there are resources available to help

by providing resources for public speaking, securing grants, and

women in business overcome these challenges and achieve their goals.

coaching. Her company helps women achieve their career goals by providing them with essential tools regardless of their industry.

One valuable resource is public speaking in the business industry and women in business. Attending events and conferences where

Helping Lead Women To Success

successful women entrepreneurs share their experiences and insights can be inspiring and empowering. These events provide opportunities

CEO and founder of Coastal Kapital, a prominent women-owned

to network and connect with like-minded individuals who can offer

financial service provider in Florida, believes that she has a voice

support, advice, and potential partnerships.

that can be shared with the world. According to Kortney Murray, empowering women in business and guiding them to build their own

Murray explains: “Expanding a business is a challenging but rewarding

empires is crucial.

journey, and there are resources and strategies available to help women entrepreneurs succeed.”

With the limitless opportunities provided by the internet and available tools, women are no longer confined by previously established borders

Always Trust In Your Intuition

in male-dominated fields. Her mission is to help others navigate the challenging process of finding the right funding and expansion tools.

Trusting one's intuition and staying true to personal goals is also key.

It's important to establish clear goals and listen to what one's intuition

"Public speaking is a powerful tool that can help women in business

or gut is saying. This can help entrepreneurs make better decisions

communicate their vision and values to a wider audience. Intuition

and stay aligned with their values and vision.

plays a vital role in building a successful company and leveraging available resources to expand it. Seeking out guidance and help is

“Trusting intuition, establishing clear goals is essential for any

essential for any entrepreneur looking to achieve their goals."

businesswoman, “Murray continues, but finding the right help and support, and bringing positive energy to the workspace and culture

Guiding Them Through Their Own Process

can all contribute to building a successful business.”

Trusting your intuition and staying true to your personal goals can

The Sky Is the Limit

be the key to building a successful business. By taking the time to establish your goals and listening to what your intuition or gut says,

Public speaking can be challenging for most of us. As a high achiever,

you can create a business that is aligned with your values and vision.

how has Murray set her sights on a new goal: public speaking while also achieving financial success? Murray explains: “Unwavering

It is also crucial to find a team that is willing to work with and support

commitment to my community and the financial empowerment

you as you grow. A team that shares your values and is committed

of women has earned me a reputation as a leader in the field. She

to your vision can help you navigate challenges and make better

explains: “With over three successful entrepreneurial ventures under

decisions for the long-term success of your business.

my belt, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.”

Finally, bringing positive energy into your workspace and culture can

Her forthcoming book, “Women Gone Wild: Intuition Edition,” set to

create a strong foundation for future growth. When positivity and

be released this year, and a movie slated for 2024, will provide readers

a can-do attitude are present, teams are motivated to work harder,

and viewers with insight into her tried-and-true methods for success.

innovate, and support each other. This sets the tone for a successful business that can thrive in the long run.

Murray continues: “I firmly believe that women supporting women is the key to success. My personal mission is to help guide others

Remember, building a successful business is a journey, and trusting

through the complexities of business financing, creating successful

your intuition and staying true to your goals can help you achieve

partnerships, and advocating for the challenges faced by business

success on your terms.

owners,” says Kortney. Her unwavering passion for helping women succeed and her dedication to the cause make her a formidable force

"I believe that by helping women trust their intuition and stay true

in the business world.

to their personal goals, we can empower them to build successful businesses on their own terms,” says Murray. “By providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, we can help them achieve their dreams and lead them to success through their own unique process."

116 84

www. coastalkapital.com

creating

kapital KORTNEY MURRAY EMPOWERS WOMEN WITH A RESOURCEBASED INITIATIVE THAT HELPS ENTREPRENEURS ACHIEVE HIGHER GOALS.

BEST FOOT FORWARD. 117

PROFILE

J

O

H

N

F L O R A

ITALIAN FOOD AND WINE ENTREPRENEUR JOHN FLORA THRIVES ... EVEN IN TUMULTUOUS TIMES.

ORVINO WINS FOUNDER JOHN FLORA.

JOHN Flora, the founder of Orvino Wines and Flora Foods, stands as a

“Sometimes this means carrying larger stocks or providing manufacturers

testament to entrepreneurial spirit and culinary passion. With his roots

with sales guarantees to mitigate disruptions.”

firmly planted in Bari, Italy, John’s journey to America was marked by humble beginnings.

Rising costs of raw materials and production are universal hurdles, yet John emphasizes the importance of inventory management and process

Settling in Brooklyn’s Bensonhurst in 1962, he swiftly embedded himself in

optimization. “We’re constantly aligning our salesforce with our inventory,

the food industry, starting at Villa Cucci Italian Bakery. His quest for authentic

focusing on specific items, and diversifying our product range,” he notes.

Italian cuisine led him to establish Flora’s Drive-In pizza parlor in Miami

Collaborations within the industry also play a crucial role, sharing resources

Beach, and subsequently, Flora’s Italian Restaurant in Hollywood, Florida.

and marketing efforts to curtail costs and broaden customer reach.

Recognizing a gap in the market, John transitioned into supplying Italian ingredients to restaurants, a venture that evolved into Flora Fine Foods.

As the economic landscape tightens, Orvino Wines has pivoted to employ targeted digital marketing, e-commerce, and personalized recommendations

Today, it’s celebrated as a premier source for genuine Italian products,

to stay connected with consumers.

esteemed by national grocers and specialty markets alike. In an industry facing the winds of economic change, John Flora sees resilience as the key

Technology, John mentions, has been leveraged to enhance efficiency across

ingredient.

the board, from quality control to distribution, optimizing the supply chain to avoid stock issues and align with customer satisfaction.

“The current climate has prompted a dip in the wine sector, but our familyowned operation thrives by staying dynamic,” he shares. Unlike larger

Looking to the future, John Flora is optimistic, predicting that the demand

conglomerates, Flora’s nimbleness has been a boon, leading to consistent

for high-quality products will only increase. “Being family-owned means we

growth even in tumultuous times.

can make swift decisions, keeping us at the forefront as we adapt to consumer preferences,” he asserts. With a clear focus on premiumization and innovation

Innovation is at the forefront of Orvino Wines’ strategy, as changing consumer

in both product and packaging, John is confident that Orvino Wines is well-

behaviors demand a fresh approach to product offerings and marketing.

positioned for sustained growth.

“We’ve embraced the digital wave, driving our marketing towards sustainable and responsible consumption,” John explains.

In the narrative of John Flora and his ventures, it’s evident that the food and wine import industry is not just surviving but thriving, driven by an

His company’s dedication to data-driven strategies has allowed them to tailor

indomitable spirit of innovation and an unyielding commitment to quality

their wines to suit evolving preferences in both retail and on-premise settings.

amidst the ebb and flow of economic tides.

The volatility of the supply chain is a well-known challenge in today’s market,

www. orvinowine.com

yet John and his team have crafted a resilient network. “It’s about building robustness into our logistics,” he says.

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CHANGING THE LENDING EQUATION

It starts with your business

Contact us at: sales@coastalkapital.com 65