Discover how travel, volunteerism, and coaching can ignite purpose, expand self-awareness, and transform your life. In this episode of Inspirational Leadership, I speak with Jill Valentine, a transformative travel coach, about her journey and how she helps people step into deeper meaning, create impact, and grow as leaders.
🎧 Listen to the full podcast here:
📺 Watch the conversation on YouTube here:
Why Travel Sparks Purpose and Leadership
Jill shares her story of leaving a traditional 9-to-5 and embracing volunteer work abroad, from Uganda to the Philippines. She explains how coaching combined with immersive travel experiences can create profound personal and professional growth. Stepping out of your daily routine and experiencing new environments expands perspective, uncovers limiting beliefs, and opens the door to meaningful change.
Transformational Travel Programs That Change Lives
Jill’s Travel for Change programs blend coaching with service-based travel. Participants receive pre-trip coaching, immersive volunteer experiences abroad, and post-trip integration support — all designed to foster deep self-discovery and meaningful contribution.
Program highlights include:
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Tanzania: Climbing Kilimanjaro while supporting local women’s initiatives
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Nepal: Trekking in remote Everest regions and volunteering with local communities
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Peru, Ecuador, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica: Cultural immersion and community projects
These programs help participants gain clarity, align their lives with their values, and create lasting shifts in careers, relationships, and personal fulfillment.
The Power of Self-Discovery Through Travel
Jill emphasizes that true transformation starts from within. While external success and achievements are important, lasting change comes when we deeply know ourselves — our values, strengths, habits, and desires.
Travel and volunteering create a powerful backdrop for this discovery, offering space, perspective, and new ways to experience life. Many participants return home with:
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Renewed clarity on career and purpose
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Stronger relationships and healthier boundaries
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Greater alignment with personal values
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A refreshed perspective on life and priorities
Key Takeaways for Leaders and Explorers
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Step outside your comfort zone: New experiences challenge assumptions and expand perspective.
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Combine travel with reflection and coaching: Integration is where insights become lasting change.
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Invest in purpose-driven experiences: Growth is accelerated when you align experiences with values and impact.
🎯 Ready to take your next step in personal growth and leadership?
Whether you’re exploring transformational travel or seeking deeper self-discovery at home, start by asking: Where could I create more meaning, joy, and contribution in my life today?
Learn more about Jill Valentine and her programs here: UGO Impact
Let’s Connect:
If this episode spoke to you, I’d love to hear from you!
And if you’re interested in exploring ways we can work together—through leadership coaching, team workshops, or speaking at your next event—please reach out. You can reach me at kristen@kristenharcourt.com
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