If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing wild ponies running along the coast, this episode is for you. Today, we’re heading to Chincoteague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to talk about boat tours, beaches, wildlife, lighthouses, and of course, the world famous Chincoteague ponies that inspired Misty of Chincoteague. We share the best ways to see the ponies, family-friendly hikes in the Refuge, where to stay, what surprised us most about the beaches, and why this quiet island makes such a fun long...

If Star Wars Nite at Disneyland has been on your radar, this is the episode that will help you decide if it’s worth it… and how to make the most of it. We’re breaking down what Disney After Dark events are really like, from late-night park access and shorter ride lines to exclusive food, merch, and experiences you won’t find during the day. You’ll get our top 10 tips, including when to arrive, what to wear, how to plan your food orders, and why costumes can make or break your night. We’re als...

Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California is one of the most underrated national parks and in this episode, I’m sharing why it’s such a great destination for families. Located near Redding, this Park offers geothermal features similar to Yellowstone, but with far fewer crowds and a more manageable size for kids. I walk you through how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do, including scenic pull-offs, easy hikes like Devastation Trail, and must-see spots like Sulphu...

You’ve probably heard people say they want to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, but did you know that visiting during the National Cherry Blossom Festival doesn’t always mean you’ll actually see the blooms? In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between peak bloom and the festival so you can plan your trip at the right time. I’ll walk you through when to go, where to stay, how to get around with kids, and what a realistic day might look like. Plus, I’m sharing what to do i...

In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re heading to Sequoia National Park in California - home to some of the largest trees on Earth and one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes you can experience as a family. From how to get there and where to stay, to what you absolutely shouldn’t miss once you arrive, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan your trip with confidence. If you’re looking for a national park adventure that feels both manageable and unforgettable, Sequoia might be t...

Spring break is here, flights are expensive, and family travel can add up fast. In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I’m sharing five practical ways we save money every time we travel as a family. From hotel and airline rewards to discounted gift cards, smarter flight timing, and simple grocery strategies, these small shifts can make a big difference in your overall travel budget. I’m also talking about why adventure doesn’t have to be far from home to be meaningful. If you want to travel mor...

Planning a family trip to San Diego and feeling overwhelmed by all the options? In this episode, we break it all down by handing out gold, silver, and bronze medals to the best things to do in San Diego with kids, from museums and animals to food, outdoor spots, and day trips. We share what surprised us, what we’d skip, and what we think is truly worth a gold medal, with Trooper serving as our official judge. Whether you’re planning a spring break trip or just dreaming about sunshine, this ep...

In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re talking all about Dinosaur National Monument and why it’s such a great trip for families with kids. I’m sharing how to get there, where to stay, and what I’d actually focus on if you’re visiting with children, starting with the can’t-miss Quarry Exhibit Hall where dinosaur bones are still visible right in the rock. We also cover easy hikes, scenic drives, petroglyphs, and a few fun stops in Vernal before you even enter the Monument. Trooper joins me ...

In this episode of the Ready Set Depart Podcast, I share a family-friendly itinerary for a long weekend in Victoria, British Columbia. From whale-filled ferry rides across the Salish Sea to Afternoon Tea at the historic Empress Hotel, I walk you through exactly how to plan an easy, memorable trip just across the Canadian border. I also share practical tips on transportation, passport requirements, and traveling without a car, along with kid-approved stops like gardens, farms, and the Royal BC...

This episode takes you to Niagara Falls with me and Trooper as we share the surprising facts we learned while planning our family trip. We cover what makes the Falls so powerful (including a water-flow comparison you can actually picture), plus the history, engineering, and a few wild stories from the past. We get practical with what to do and see, including our honest take on Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Prospect Point, and tips for visiting in every season. We also share a few fun e...