Memento Mori for Travelers | Author, Jodi Wellman: Letting the Reality of Time Change How You Explore

Memento Mori for Travelers | Author, Jodi Wellman: Letting the Reality of Time Change How You Explore

Author: Sarah Groen March 11, 2026 Duration: 1:01:16

Today's episode is perfect for you if you need a little kick in the pants to make space for your life's experiences. 

So many of us intuitively feel that travel changes us - that it makes us more alive, more curious, more connected and our guest today will help illuminate some of that for us. Jodi Wellman is a speaker, author of the book, You Only Die Once, fellow Penn graduate, and founder of Four Thousand Mondays. Jodi's work centers on a powerful idea: that our time on this earth is limited and precious. And when we really let that sink in, it changes how we choose to live.

In this conversation, we unpack the psychology behind the Latin phrase memento mori, and how this awareness of our fragility can actually increase vitality and meaning. Then we bring it into travel. How does knowing our time is limited shift the trips we take, the experiences we prioritize, and the way we show up? How do we return home not just rested, but more alive?

So, if you've ever told yourself, "We'll take that trip someday," this episode might gently challenge that.

Let's dive in.

 

Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels

If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/

 

Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com

 

Connect with me on Social:

Instagram

LinkedIn


Sarah Groen hosts Luxury Travel Insider, a podcast that moves beyond glossy brochures to explore the intricate world of high-end journeys through the people who craft them. Each episode is a conversation with a pivotal figure, from a veteran like Ashford Castle's Robert Bowe, with over three decades dedicated to guest experience, to conservation leaders at remote safari lodges and the proprietors of legendary hotels. These discussions reveal the unseen effort, deep cultural knowledge, and thoughtful philosophy that define true luxury on the road. Rather than just listing destinations, the podcast uncovers the stories behind impeccable service, sustainable practices, and those perfectly curated moments that transform a simple trip into a lasting memory. Tuning in feels like gaining access to a private club where the talk is always about the art of travel itself. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of what it takes to create exceptional experiences, the balance between opulence and authenticity, and the evolving definition of luxury in different corners of the globe. It’s for those who see travel as a deeper pursuit, interested in the craftsmanship behind the curtain as much as the destination on the itinerary.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Luxury Travel Insider
Podcast Episodes
Turks & Caicos | Grace Bay Resorts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:16
Today we're visiting my personal favorite destination in the Caribbean. The beaches beckon with white powdery sand, crystalline turquoise waters, and the easiest drinking rum punch in the islands. Add in some amazing res…
Big Sky, Montana | One & Only Moonlight Basin [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:14
Today we're enjoying wide open skies, magical rivers, and the jagged peaks of the Madison mountain range. Sprinkle in a little cowboy culture, love for the land, and a much needed break from the hustle and bustle.. And w…
Venice | Expert Panel [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:38
Today, we're heading to one of the world's most magical cities—Venice. Imagine wandering through winding canals, admiring centuries-old architecture, and indulging in traditional ciccheti and a select spritz. Whether you…
Madrid | Rosewood Villa Magna [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:51
Today we're heading to the capital of Spain, a city in Europe that is certainly having a moment. To sum it up, a quote from Lope de Vega says, "When you are in Madrid, you are among friends." So, joining me today to expl…
Oman | Six Senses Zighy Bay [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:20
Today we are headed to a magical slice of Oman called the Musandam Peninsula. This part of the country is completely isolated from the rest of the mainland and so has maintained its wild natural beauty and authentic cult…
European Ski Trips | Expert Panel [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:44
Today… we're going skiing! And we're doing it in style in France, Switzerland, Italy, and other European destinations. I wanted to pull together this episode not only because skiing in Europe is an amazing cultural exper…
Kauai | 1Hotel Hanalei Bay [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:36
Today, we're escaping to the breathtaking Garden Isle of Kauai. With its emerald valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches, Kauai offers a serene escape like no other. We're checking into the stunning 1Hotel Ha…
Faroe islands | Expert Panel: Peace & Quiet (and Puffins!) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:43
Today we're headed well off the beaten path, to the area nestled between the North Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea. The secluded Faroe Islands boast rugged cliffs, emerald green landscapes, puffins galore, and a vibrant l…
The Dominican Republic | Eden Roc Cap Cana [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:41
I'm excited for you to join me today to head to the gorgeous island of the Dominican Republic. There's something about the turquoise water fringed with the most amazing palm trees you've ever seen - that gives you a sens…