The Radio Vagabond

In this final episode from Elk Horn, Iowa – the most Danish town in America – I visit the local cemetery, where history is literally carved in stone. Warren Whatson, the caretaker and local historian, shares stories about the early Danish settlers and how names and traditions changed over time. Then I meet Stan Jens, the big-bearded mayor of Elk Horn, who invites me for a beer in his Harley garage. Between motorcycles and laughter, we talk about preserving Danish culture, small-town pride, and community spirit. It's a perfect ending to my time in "Dane Country." See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/339-elk-horn-iowa/

Welcome back to Elk Horn, Iowa – a small Midwestern town that became the heart of Danish America. In this episode, we hear a remarkable coincidence about the first Danes to arrive here, visit the historic Danish Windmill with manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore The Museum of Danish America. I also get a personal tour of "Bedstemor's Hus," built in 1908 by the colorful local legend known as Prince Otto. From documentaries that made locals famous in Denmark to preserved heritage homes and cultural festivals, Elk Horn continues to celebrate its Danish roots with pride. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/338-elk-horn-iowa/

In this episode, my travel partner Cynthia and I explore Al Ula in northwestern Saudi Arabia – where ancient culture meets cutting-edge architecture. We stroll through Old Town's 1,300 mudbrick houses, chat with a modern young Saudi woman named Dalal, and marvel at Maraya, the world's largest mirrored building shimmering in the desert. We also test our luck (and our rental car) in the sand again – with a dramatic sunset rescue by friendly locals. As Saudi Arabia opens up to visitors, this mix of hospitality, history, and high-tech design feels like a glimpse into the country's future. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/254-saudi-arabia/

Join me on an unforgettable journey across Saudi Arabia – from the futuristic capital Riyadh to the dramatic Red Sand Dunes where my travel partner Cynthia and I got repeatedly stuck. Along the way, we discover a country transforming itself through Vision 2030, meet warm and curious locals, and experience the blend of old traditions and bold modernization that defines the new KSA. We explore everything from a stressful airport check-in and a not-yet-running metro to quad biking in the desert and sunset reflections in Riyadh's Nabd Al Riyadh. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/248-saudi-arabia/

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I return to New York City – a place I've visited many times before. But this time, something felt different. From the moment I stepped back into the chaos, culture, and charisma of "The Big Apple," I was reminded of just how alive this city is. They say it's the greatest city in the world – and in this episode, I set out to rediscover exactly why. Join me for a fresh take on a familiar place, where even for a seasoned traveler like me, New York still knows how to surprise. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/100-new-york/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on February 27, 2020.

In this emotional Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel to Bessemer, Alabama to experience Gip's Place – a legendary juke joint founded in the backyard of Henry "Gip" Gipson. At the time, Gip was an astonishing 97 years old, still hosting Saturday night blues sessions in his tin-roofed music shed alongside family, locals, and wandering musicians. His motto, "No black, no white, just blues," resonated through every note. Update: Sadly, Henry "Gip" Gipson passed away on October 8, 2019, at the age of 99, closing a chapter on one of America's last authentic juke joints. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/066-alabama/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on March 15, 2019.

In this offbeat episode of The Radio Vagabond, I find myself in beautiful Bali, sipping on what might be the strangest – and most expensive – cup of coffee I've ever had. It's called Luwak coffee, made from beans that have been eaten, digested, and yes, pooped out by a civet cat. Then it's cleaned, roasted, and brewed into a surprisingly smooth cup of coffee. Whether it's a gimmick or a gourmet experience, I had to try it for myself. Come with me to a Balinese coffee plantation where I sample this legendary brew, chat with locals, and question my own life choices – one sip at a time. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/212-bali/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 25, 2021.

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, we head to Pattaya, Thailand – a place with two drastically different faces. First, I take you down one of the wildest party streets on the planet: Walking Street. It's loud, it's chaotic, and it's absolutely unforgettable. From neon lights and booming music to all kinds of nightlife, it's a full-on sensory overload. But just beyond the party scene, I discover another side of Pattaya. I visit a local orphanage and meet some remarkable kids and caretakers who bring a human, heartwarming contrast to the city's infamous reputation. This episode is a rollercoaster – from outrageous to uplifting – all in one city. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/026-pattaya/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on May 3, 2018.

In this powerful episode of The Radio Vagabond, we explore one of Cape Town's most poignant landmarks: District Six. I begin by chatting with Uber drivers – immigrants from Rwanda, Congo and Malawi – who share what life is really like in the city today. Their stories highlight Cape Town's beauty and its socio-economic challenges, setting a compelling backdrop for what follows. Then we step into the District Six Museum, where history comes alive through photos, maps and personal testimonies. Once a lively, multi‑ethnic neighbourhood of tens of thousands, it was declared a whites‑only area in February 1966. Forced removals displaced over 60,000 residents over the next decade – families torn apart and community destroyed. Today, most of the land remains vacant – a stark reminder of apartheid's legacy. We hear from former inhabitants who recount heartbreaking stories of resistance, loss and survival. This episode is a journey through memory, resilience and the enduring spirit of community amid injustice. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/151-the-dark-history-of-district-six/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on March 9, 2020.

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel from the urban buzz of Toronto to the laid-back charm of Québec City – and suddenly feel like I've landed in Europe. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and a French-speaking population give this Canadian gem an old-world feel unlike anywhere else in North America. I soak in the local culture, cuisine, and character while reflecting on how different this part of Canada feels from the rest. If you've never been to Québec, this might just put it at the top of your bucket list. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/052-quebec/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 1, 2018.

In this immersive episode of The Radio Vagabond, we journey to Hungary's dynamic capital – Budapest. I explore both sides of the Danube: Buda, with its regal history and panoramic views, and Pest, buzzing with cafés, culture, and a nightlife scene that doesn't sleep. I sample exquisite dishes at Michelin-rated restaurants, take a deep dive into local traditions, and end up in the iconic Szimpla Ruin Bar – a place that's equal parts bizarre and brilliant. Join me as I wander through thermal baths, meet fascinating locals and tourists, and capture the energy of a city that truly blends old-world charm with new-world excitement. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/005-hungary/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on June 15, 2017.

In this explosive episode of The Radio Vagabond, I share the jaw-dropping story of how my Instagram account was hacked and how Meta's broken support system turned a bad situation into a digital nightmare. From being locked out of my own account to being sent in endless loops of canned replies and case closures, this is the frustrating tale of trying to get real help from a platform that promises support to its verified users – but delivers anything but. Spoiler: it includes 20+ agents, false promises of phone calls, and a hacked account that vanished into thin air. It's funny, it's maddening, and it's a cautionary tale for anyone who relies on Meta's platforms. You don't want to miss this one. You can follow The Radio Vagabond on https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond https://twitter.com/radiovagabond https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Read the full story in the blog post here: https://theradiovagabond.com/366-meta

What do a sneaker-shaped coffin, a suspicious cocktail, and a spontaneous live performance have in common? They all happened to me in just two unforgettable days in Accra, Ghana. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we continue our journey through the vibrant capital. I take you to the famous Paa Joe Coffin Works to explore Ghana's incredible tradition of fantasy coffins, and you'll hear how I ended up singing "Danish Man in Accra" in a lively bar after Cynthia ordered a drink with a name that raised more than a few eyebrows. We also dig deeper into Ghanaian society – from the many government ministries to the challenges of living costs for everyday Ghanaians. Plus, I'll share conversations with locals and some funny moments you won't want to miss. Key Takeaways: Explore the colorful and creative world of fantasy coffins at Paa Joe Coffin Works Hear how I got pulled into an impromptu live performance at a bar in Accra Discover how locals feel about Ghana's many government ministries Understand the reality of living costs and income gaps in modern Ghana Learn why Accra is a city that buzzes with energy, culture, and stories around every corner Relevant Links: Visit Paa Joe Coffin Works and learn more about their fantasy coffins tradition: https://www.paa-joe-art.com/ Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Follow on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/radiovagabond Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Visit the blog post for more details and photos: https://theradiovagabond.com/364-ghana