In this episode, we explore the fascinating life of Lauren Hitchen, a travel agent, entrepreneur, and mother. Lauren shares stories of growing up in England, her family’s move to the U.S., and the unexpected twists and turns that led her to a career in travel. Her journey reflects the adaptability and resilience required to thrive in both business and life. From managing an assisted living facility to establishing a successful travel agency, Lauren discusses the importance of family, her love for travel, and how she helps others explore the world.

What You'll Hear:

1. Family Roots and Early Influences:
   • Lauren recounts her upbringing in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a historic town between England and Scotland.
   • Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs who owned and managed various businesses, including a local store and a pub.
2. Immigration and Adjustment in the U.S.:
   • The challenges of moving to America as a teenager, navigating the immigration system, and finding her place in a new country.
   • Her family’s transition into the healthcare sector, managing an assisted living facility, and later expanding into other ventures.
3. Journey into Travel and Adventure:
   • The pivotal moment when a career counselor suggested she pursue travel—a passion that she didn’t initially see as a career.
   • Lauren’s path from helping with family businesses to building her own career as a travel agent, specializing in luxury and family travel.
4. The Role of Travel in Personal Growth:
   • How travel and cultural experiences shaped her perspective and enhanced her adaptability in business.
   • Stories of memorable trips, including a recent cruise on Disney’s private island during a hurricane.
5. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Travelers:
   • Tips on pivoting in business, creating a niche in the travel industry, and finding fulfillment in entrepreneurship.
   • Insights into the importance of connecting with clients and offering unique, personalized travel experiences.

Insights:

• “You’ve just got to do what you’ve got to do to make it work.” – Lauren Hitchen
• “Freedom is being able to go where you want and explore the world on your terms.” – Lauren Hitchen
• “Every experience, good or bad, prepares you for the next chapter.” – Lauren Hitchen

Connect with Lauren:

• @thejetsetgetaway
• @slaytheusa
• @lauren.hitch
• Jaime Marco website
• Jaime on Instagram
• Jaime on LinkedIn
• Jaime on Facebook

If Lauren’s story resonated with you, subscribe to our podcast for more real-life stories of resilience and adventure. Share this episode with friends interested in entrepreneurship, travel, or who simply love a good story.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this inspiring conversation with Lauren Hitchen. Remember, life is an adventure waiting to be embraced. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this powerful Legacy Series episode, we sit down with Carolyn Kaplan, a remarkable woman celebrating her 100th year. Carolyn recounts her extraordinary journey from her childhood in Nazi Germany to building a life of resilience, love, and giving back. Through candid conversations, she shares harrowing stories of escaping persecution, her family’s immigration to the U.S., and the importance of faith, education, and community. With humor and wisdom, Carolyn inspires us to face adversity with courage and grace.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Life in Nazi Germany:
   
   • Carolyn reflects on her early life in a small German village, where Jews and Gentiles lived side by side until the rise of Hitler in 1933.
   • How her family narrowly escaped persecution and emigrated to the U.S., thanks to her parents’ foresight and determination.
2. The Challenges of Escape:
   
   • The family’s dangerous journey out of Germany, including a harrowing train ride where Carolyn’s life was threatened by a Nazi soldier.
   • How her father’s bravery and quick thinking ensured their survival.
3. Building a New Life in America:
   
   • Adjusting to life in Chicago as a young immigrant and navigating the challenges of learning a new language and culture.
   • Carolyn’s passion for education and how she became fluent in English, Hebrew, and German by her teenage years.
4. Community and Resilience:
   
   • How Carolyn found strength through faith and the Jewish community in Chicago.
   • Stories of volunteering, teaching Hebrew school, and creating a legacy of kindness through service.
5. Reflections on History and Hate:
   
   • Carolyn’s insights on the cyclical nature of hate and the importance of teaching future generations about love, tolerance, and resilience.
   • Her work with Holocaust education and sharing her story with schools to inspire empathy and understanding.
6. Celebrating 100 Years:
   
   • Carolyn’s reflections on reaching this incredible milestone, the family she’s built, and the lessons she wants to pass on.
   • Her advice for living a meaningful life: “Give freely, love deeply, and never let the bastards get you down.”

Memorable Quotes:

• “The worst times in life are often the waiting periods—but they pass, and we survive.” – Carolyn Kaplan
• “Love and education are the best weapons against hate.” – Carolyn Kaplan
• “Every act of kindness, no matter how small, creates ripples that last for generations.” – Carolyn Kaplan

If Carolyn’s incredible story moved you, subscribe to our podcast and share this episode with friends, family, and anyone who needs a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.

We’d love to hear from you! Send feedback, questions, or guest suggestions to connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning in to this unforgettable conversation with Carolyn Kaplan. Her story reminds us that even in the darkest times, courage, love, and resilience can light the way forward. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this lighthearted and entertaining episode, we chat with Norm Ross, a retired professional with a colorful history in broadcasting, sales, and HR. Norm shares humorous and insightful stories from his experiences working as a sports announcer, his adventures in the dating world, and his life across multiple cities. From growing up in New York to surviving earthquakes in California, Norm’s journey is filled with laughs, lessons, and a touch of nostalgia. This episode is perfect for listeners who enjoy real-life stories, witty humor, and reflections on life’s unpredictable twists.

What You'll Hear:

1. Norm’s Early Career in Broadcasting:
   • Norm recalls his time as a sports announcer for the Denver Bears, a AAA baseball team affiliated with the White Sox.
   • His memorable (and humorous) moments working late-night radio and the challenges of live broadcasting.
2. Life in California and Surviving Earthquakes:
   • Norm reflects on his years living in California, including his experience during the Northridge earthquake.
   • He shares stories about his family’s encounters with earthquakes and other unpredictable moments.
3. Navigating the Dating World in His 70s:
   • Norm offers an honest and humorous look at dating later in life, from using dating apps like Match.com and Bumble to finding companionship for his “back nine.”
   • He shares his criteria for an ideal partner and the realities of online dating in his 70s.
4. Insights into Family and Relationships:
   • Norm discusses the importance of family, lessons learned from his parents, and the complexities of marriage and relationships.
   • The conversation touches on generational perspectives on marriage and the value of companionship.
5. Reflections on Career and Life Lessons:
   • With a career spanning broadcasting, HR, and insurance, Norm emphasizes the importance of adaptability and humor in life.
   • He shares his philosophy on taking things as they come, learning from each stage of life, and making the most of each experience.

Insights:

• “You don’t know everything, and sometimes life just throws you a curveball.” – Norm Ross
• “At this age, dating is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get.” – Norm Ross
• “If you have your hair, your teeth, and can drive at night, what more do you need?” – Norm Ross

Resources:

• Denver Bears Baseball History
• Learn More about Northridge Earthquake

If Norm’s stories made you smile, please subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring and entertaining conversations. Share this episode with friends and family who might enjoy Norm’s humor and perspective on life.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining us for this delightful conversation with Norm Ross. Remember to embrace the unexpected, find humor in life’s challenges, and keep your curiosity alive. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!