Episode 170: Exploring the Unique Magic of Dollywood
Me and the Magic
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Dollywood expert Katie Smith to dive into all things Dollywood and the surrounding eastern Tennessee area. They discuss the park’s rich history, seasonal festivals like the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas, must-do attractions, local food recommendations, money-saving tips, and nearby sights. Katie shares insider advice for first-timers, details about Dollywood resorts, and her favorite holiday traditions. Connect with Our Guest Connect with Katie Smith at and TikTok. Also, listen to Katie on the . ...
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Episode 169: Essential Tips for Sailing to Alaska from Seattle
Me and the Magic
Essential Tips for Sailing to Alaska from Seattle: Must-Do Adventures, Navigating Ports, and Packing Tips Host Amanda Bauner is joined by Grace Korba, Angela Batista, and Tim Bigonia to share in-depth details about their recent group cruise to Alaska aboard the Celebrity Edge. They discuss the highlights of sailing out of Seattle and then traveling through Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, B.C., diving into pre-cruise tips, unique excursions, favorite on-board experiences, and the joys of traveling with a diverse group. Connect with Our Guests Connect with Grace Korba online on ...
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Episode 168: LIve at Sea: Celebrating Our Group Alaska Cruise
Me and the Magic
In this special episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner leads a heartfelt, laughter-filled live recording aboard the Celebrity Edge on the group Alaska cruise in July 2025. Amanda and the group share highlights from their Alaska cruise, reflect on the magic of traveling with a group, and recount memorable excursions and moments at sea. The group discusses everything from scenic vistas and favorite ship features to the power of community, culminating in a celebration of the podcast’s five-year anniversary and an exciting giveaway for listeners. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join...
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Episode 167: Navigating Walt Disney World While Undergoing Cancer Treatment
Me and the Magic
In this heartfelt episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes back Dawn Niebling to share her inspiring journey through breast cancer and how it shaped her most recent Walt Disney World trip with her family. Dawn offers practical tips for vacation planning and self-care during cancer treatment, highlights the emotional and logistical challenges faced, and reflects on the healing power of laughter, positivity, and Disney magic. The episode is filled with honest stories, travel advice, and moments of gratitude, making it a valuable listen for anyone navigating illness while still...
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Episode 166: Unlocking the Power of Vacation Mindset
Me and the Magic
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes life and leadership coach Angie Robinson to discuss the importance of cultivating a vacation mindset. Together, they explore how setting intentions before, during, and after a trip can make travel more meaningful and fulfilling. The conversation covers practical strategies for overcoming travel stress, embracing spontaneity, and ensuring your time away truly recharges you. Amanda and Angie share personal stories and actionable tips to help listeners approach their next getaway with mindfulness and purpose, whether traveling solo...
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Episode 165: Essential Solo Road Trip Tips
Me and the Magic
In this episode, learn essential tips and empowering advice for planning and enjoying a solo road trip. Covering everything from creating flexible itineraries and staying safe to budgeting, healthy habits, and embracing alone time, host Amanda Bauner provides practical examples and personal insights to help listeners gain confidence and make their solo journeys both memorable and transformative. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with...
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Episode 164: How to Plan Your Perfect Summer Road Trip
Me and the Magic
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner kicks off a summer road trip series by sharing why summer is the perfect time to hit the road. She offers practical tips on budgeting, planning, and making the most of a summer road trip, including apps to use, ways to save money, and must-pack essentials. Amanda also highlights fun ideas like curating the perfect playlist, taking scenic detours, and finding local flavors, making road trips enjoyable and memorable. Resources . . of the Me and the Magic podcast highlights 9 of the best summer road trips in...
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Episode 163: What It's Like to Travel Solo on a Disney Cruise
Me and the Magic
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner shares her detailed solo adventure aboard the Disney Dream cruise. She discusses her pre-cruise stay in Fort Lauderdale, her smooth embarkation process—including a last-minute concierge upgrade—and dives into shipboard experiences, from spa relaxation to dining at Palo. Amanda reviews exclusive concierge perks, onboard activities, Castaway Cay, while offering practical tips for solo travelers. The episode wraps with her seamless BrightLine train journey home and reflections on the overall magic of solo cruising with Disney. Join the Me and the Magic...
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Episode 162: Pros and Cons of Booking a Last-Minute Disney Cruise
Me and the Magic
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner dives into the pros and cons of booking a last-minute Disney cruise. With her upcoming trip on the Disney Dream, she shares insights on flexibility, potential cost savings, and the excitement of spontaneous travel. Amanda also discusses challenges such as limited stateroom availability and sold-out onboard activities. Amanda's personal experiences and tips provide listeners with a comprehensive guide to planning a magical Disney cruise experience, whether planned in advance or booked spontaneously. Resources Check out Explore all the Disney Cruise Line has...
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Episode 161: Best Destinations and Activities for a Friends’ Weekend Getaway
Me and the Magic
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores the joy of weekend getaways with friends. The episode highlights various destinations across North America, from the charming streets of Savannah to the stunning landscapes of Sedona and Banff. Amanda also shares creative activity ideas, such as spa weekends, volunteer trips, and themed movie nights. With an emphasis on connection and creating lasting memories, the episode provides inspiration for listeners looking to plan a fun and rejuvenating escape with friends. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic to share your...
info_outlineIn this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores 2025 travel trends, highlighting solo female travel, slow travel, and conscious travel. She discusses the rising popularity of eco-friendly trips, such as visiting Japan’s Yakushima Island and staying at sustainable lodgings in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Other key trends include sleep tourism, train travel, and astro-tourism.
Resources
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Forbes article written by Michelle Gross: “25 Transformational Travel Experiences in 2025”.
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TravelPulse.com’s article “The Top Travel Trends That Will Define 2025.
Join the Me and the Magic Community
Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community!
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