Shows
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis #55 - What Makes Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada an Ideal Summer Getaway DestinationIn this episode of “Thunder Bay — On Land, On Water, and On Your Plate,” we sat down with Paul Pepe from Tourism Thunder Bay to explore everything that makes this Northern Ontario gem a must-visit summer destination. From scenic hikes and paddling adventures on Lake Superior to vibrant cultural festivals and a dynamic food scene blending tradition with trend, Paul gave us the inside scoop on how to make the most of your time in Thunder Bay. We also dug into some classic local eats, new restaurant buzz, and even his dream “eat your way through the city” food day. Wheth...2025-05-1530 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #54 | Paul Pepe, Manager @ Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada TourismIt's a pleasure to present Episode #54 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Paul Pepe, Manager of Thunder Bay Tourism in northwest Ontario, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
What makes Thunder Bay an ideal 4-season destination.
Why Thunder Bay should be on your Travel Radar.
Thunder Bay's endless outdoor adventures, culinary offerings, and cultural richness.
Finnish Pancakes @ the Sauna??
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company that aims to...2024-10-1022 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #53 | Isabel Hilgendag, Scientist, Explorer & CEO @ Pursuit of ExplorationI'm delighted to present Episode #53 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Isabel Hilgendag, Scientist, Explorer & CEO @ Pursuit of Exploration. In this episode, we talk about:
Completing the Pacific Crest Trail, solo.
Rewards & challenges traveling the world, solo.
Passion for the land, and a nomadic-inspired lifestyle.
Traveling while looking at the world with scientific eyes, as much as adventurous ones.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company that aims to uni...2024-02-2830 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #52 | Amra Durakovic, Head of Communications @ Flight Centre CanadaI'm delighted to present Episode #52 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Amra Durakovic, Head of Communications @ Flight Centre Canada, one of the country's premier travel agencies dating back 30 years. In this episode, we talk about:
The importance of booking a trip well in advance.
Whether last-minute deals are actually good deals.
Flight Centre Canada's human touch.
Getting more value for your travel buck with off-season travel.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a...2024-01-2330 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #51 | Andrew McDonald, Director of Marketing & Communications @ Wanuskewin Heritage ParkI'm delighted to present Episode #51 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Andrew McDonald, Director of Marketing and Communications @ Wanuskewin Heritage Park, a future UNESCO World Heritage Site, located just north of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
Wanuskewin itself, and its cultural, social, and geographic importance in the span of human history.
Experiences visitors can expect to have at Wanuskewin.
Its journey to becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What past visitors have taken away after visiting.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with ind...2023-09-0532 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #50 | Adina Bercowicz, Founder & Executive Director @ LymeTVEpisode #50 of the Fact Up Podcast features Adina Bercowicz, Founder & Executive Director @ LymeTV.org. In this episode, we talk about:
What is Lyme Disease, and efforts being made to teach kids prevention methods in school.
Detecting, diagnosing, and treating Lyme Disease.
Steps you can take to protect yourself and your pets from Lyme Disease.
Does celebrity raise further awareness about Lyme Disease?
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company t...2023-03-1134 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #49 | Tracy Ford @ Chelsea Hotel, TorontoEpisode #49 of the Fact Up Podcast features Tracy Ford, Director of Public Relations at the Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
How Canada's largest hotel managed to persevere through the pandemic.
What it takes to manage and operate a hotel of that size.
Experiences Guests can expect to have, and renovations underway that will make it better.
Activities in-house, including the unforgettable 130 ft Corkscrew Waterslide.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture ind...2023-03-0925 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #48 | Alex Pope @ Canadian GeographicEpisode #48 of the Fact Up Podcast features Alex Pope, Editor-in-Chief @ Canadian Geographic, based in Ottawa, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
Destroying comfort zones, professionally and personally.
Why Canadian Geographic continues to be a media standout after nearly 100 years.
The culture of smart content creation, and shifts in the media landscape.
Why People play an important, central role in published content.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company tha...2023-01-1329 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #47 | Neil Hodge @ Tourism New Brunswick, CanadaEpisode #47 of the Fact Up Podcast features Neil Hodge, Travel Media Rep from New Brunswick Tourism in Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
Why New Brunswick is a must see destination.
Culinary experiences to be had, including Ballet on the Ocean.
Experiencing the largest tides on Earth, and the warmest ocean waters north of the Carolinas.
Cultural experiences, including immersive Acadian, and Indigenous gems.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a me...2022-08-1329 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #46 | Merren McArthur @ Lynx AirEpisode #46 of the Fact Up Podcast features Merren McArthur, President and CEO of Lynx Air, one of Canada's newest airlines. In this episode, we talk about:
What Lynx Air is all about and why travellers should be paying attention.
Voids Lynx Air fills that other airlines lack.
Establishing trust with travellers, and the challenges of being at the helm of a new airline, especially post-covid.
Amount travellers can expect to save flying Lynx Air
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the...2022-03-1818 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #45 | Rachel Ferguson @ Visit PhillyEpisode #45 of the Fact Up Podcast features Rachel Ferguson - Chief Innovation and Global Diversity Officer @ Visit Philadelphia - THE source for everything City of Brotherly Love + Sisterly Affection! In this episode, we talk about:
Experiences to be had in Philly, including the World Premiere of the Harry Potter Exhibit.
The Heartbeat of Philly.
The city's Cultural Soul.
Philly's history of celebrating diversity and inclusivity!
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a...2022-03-0729 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #44 | Daniel Hayter @ CheapOairEpisode #44 of the Fact Up Podcast features Daniel Hayter, Senior Product Manager at CheapOair - a travel organization that prides itself on exceptional customer service, dedicated to making the travel experience seamless! In this episode, we talk about:
A recent survey conducted by CheapOair about the new Ontario Staycation Tax Credit.
The surprising results from that survey.
Whether Ontario Residents, for whom the Staycation Tax Credit is intended for, would take advantage of it.
Travel trends, especially post-Covid.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders...2022-02-2425 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #43 | Ashley Serrate @ Florida Keys + Key West TourismEpisode #43 of the Fact Up Podcast features Ashley Serrate, Media Relations Manager at Florida Keys + Key West Tourism - a piece of paradise filled with beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, exceptional cuisine and a rich history. In this episode, we talk about:
Dispelling travel myths for those eager to travel to the Florida Keys + Key West.
What measures are in place to ensure visitor safety.
The importance of getting to know the locals and exploring everything on offer.
Why the Florida Keys + Key West is an ideal destination, including and especially post-Covid.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim...2021-12-0728 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #42 | Tracie Bertrand @ Tourism Peterborough and the KawarthasEpisode #42 of the Fact Up Podcast features Tracie Bertrand, Director of Tourism at Peterborough and the Kawarthas Tourism in Southern Ontario, Canada - an exceptional area rich in nature, culture, and tradition. In this episode, we talk about:
The brand new tourism campaign that features the inclusive and poignant O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge - and where you can sign up -> thekawarthas.ca/pledge
Why Respect plays a central role when it comes to travel and tourism.
Why Peterborough and the Kawarthas is a must-visit when in Ontario.
The enduring lessons covid and 2020 as a whole have taught us...2021-08-0829 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #41 | Heather Greenwood Davis, Globetrottingmama.comEpisode #41 of the Fact Up Podcast features Heather Greenwood Davis, award-winning and internationally renowned freelance travel writer, on-air personality and the woman behind GlobeTrottingMama.com. A lawyer in her previous life, Heather's work can been seen in various publications including, National Geographic and The Globe and Mail, a national Canadian daily. In this epic episode, we talk about:
How her kids inspired her career as a travel writer, and why raising Global Citizens is important to her.
Her round the world trip with family in tow, and the impact it continues to have today.
What her kids have...2021-07-2634 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #40 | Chris Nowrouzi, CEO - FlyGTA, Visit Canada, VidaJetEpisode #40 of the Fact Up Podcast features Chris Nowrouzi, CEO of FlyGTA, Visit Canada and VidaJet. Chris started having an interest in everything flight at age 5. He knew what he wanted, worked hard, and earned his wings, in a matter of speaking. In this episode we chat about:
Where his passion for flight started.
What steps he took to realize his dream of flying.
How he started FlyGTA and what impact its made in the airline industry in Canada.
What travel will look like going forward.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations...2021-07-1325 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #39 | Jenn Smith Nelson @ Travel + HappinessEpisode #39 of the Fact Up Podcast features Jenn Smith Nelson, Travel Writer, Photographer, Author and the woman behind Travel + Happiness, a site dedicated to experiences that promote gratitude, the beauty of wildlife and the importance of conservation. In this episode we chat about:
Why her book, '110 Nature Hot Spots in Manitoba + Saskatchewan' is a must-read.
The appeal of the Canadian Prairies and Prairie life.
Where she's been finding her zen during the times of Covid.
Missing the 'newness' of travel.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day...2021-05-2828 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #22 | Stephanie Reid @ Thunder Bay Ontario TourismEpisode #22 of the Fact Up Podcast features Stephanie Reid, Digital superstar @ Tourism Thunder Bay, Ontario, a widely underrated and energetically emerging city in Northern Ontario. In this episode, we discuss:
Why Thunder Bay's is an ideal vacation spot, especially post Covid.
The dynamic and exciting food scene making the rounds across the country.
Local delights, including 'The Persian'.
The region's incredible attractions and outdoor adventures.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a...2021-05-0528 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #38 | Kevin Wagar @ The Wandering WagarsEpisode #38 of the Fact Up Podcast features Kevin Wagar, Family Travel Writer and Photographer @ The Wandering Wagars, the travel site dedicated to sharing family travel tips and inspiring parents to travel with kids and exploring the benefits of family travel. In this episode we chat about:
Challenges parents face when traveling with kids.
Enriching experiences that come from traveling as a family.
What lessons kids learn from traveling as a family.
Ways to prioritize family travel.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers i...2021-03-2730 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #37 | Tamara Soroka @ Travel ManitobaEpisode #37 of the Fact Up Podcast features Tamara Soroka, Media Content Specialist @ Travel Manitoba, the site to visit when planning a trip to Manitoba. In this episode we chat about:
Why Manitoba is an overlooked and underrated place to visit, even amongst Canadians.
Winnipeg's emerging food scene.
Why Manitoba is Canada's Cultural Cradle and Winnipeg's cultural experiences.
Manitoba as a truly 4-season province.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media c...2021-03-2438 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #24 | Yashy Murphy @ Parenting To GoEpisode #24 of the Fact Up Podcast features Yashy Murphy, Founder and Editor @ Parenting To Go, a website that explores how to do family travel the smart way. In this episode we chat about:
How Yashy and her hubby Chris planned and executed a months-long trip with 2 kids.
Maintaining a fun pre-baby lifestyle, post baby.
The importance of communication when planning a trip.
Planning a trip but leaving room for spontaneity.
How early travel shaped her rich travel writing career.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry...2021-03-1326 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #30 | Agatha Podgorski @ Culinary Tourism AllianceEpisode #30 of the Fact Up Podcast features Agatha Podgorski, Director, Community Engagement at Culinary Tourism Alliance, a national Canadian organization dedicated to supporting the food and restaurant industry. Passionate about travel, food, local and sustainability, we talk about:
What her personal travel experiences have taught her about food and sustainability.
How delicious Canada is.
How the pandemic has changed food, restaurant and palette trends and habits.
Why the annual 'Feast On' event is so important for restaurants and food related biz across the country.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics...2021-03-0925 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #36 | Maryam Siddiqi @ The Globe & Mail NewspaperEpisode #36 of the Fact Up Podcast features Maryam Siddiqi, Lifestyle Editor at The Globe & Mail, a national Canadian daily newspaper. A natural storyteller, we discussed various topics, including:
What Book perfectly reflects what's happening the world.
Professional challenges as a Lifestyle Editor in the age of Covid.
The benefits and pitfalls of solo travel.
What she learned traveling the world for 6 months.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company th...2021-02-2123 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #35 | Johnny Jet @ JohnnyJet.comEpisode #35 of the Fact Up Podcast features Johnny Jet. Considered to be the first 'travel influencer', Johnny is a Travel Publisher and Founder of JohnnyJet.com. In this podcast, we talk:
The importance of travel insurance fine print.
The state of travel post covid.
Using your saved up travel points for something BIG!
His own tricks of the travel trade.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company that aims t...2021-02-1220 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #34 | Jami Savage @ AdventureAwaits.caEpisode #34 of the Fact Up Podcast features Jami Savage, Founder @ AdventureAwaits.ca. In this podcast, we talk:
Why eco-tourism is so important to her and her family.
The motto she lives by.
Travel pet peeves.
Her 'Empty Cup' and inspiration to travel.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company that aims to unite the global community through travel, food and cultural experiences worldwide.
2021-02-0329 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #12 | Jodi Holliday @ Tourism SaskatchewanEpisode #12 of the Fact Up Podcast features Jodi Holliday, Travel Influencer + Brand Advocate Specialist @ Tourism Saskatchewan. In this podcast, we talk:
Why Saskatchewan MUST be on your travel radar.
Inspirational places to visit while visiting.
Why Saskatchewan is truly Canada's heartland in more ways than one.
How communities across the Province continue to support each other.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a media company that aims to unite the global co...2021-01-2621 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #10 | Helen Hatzis, Travel Writer @ Trip Jaunt + Chief Community Officer @ Genius 100 VisionsEpisode #10 of the Fact Up Podcast features accomplished Travel Writer @ Trip Jaunt and Chief Community Officer at Genius 100 Visions. In this podcast, we talk about these topics and many others:
Her involvement in creating the world's first 3D book.
Inspirational people and places along the way.
Her ability to help and give back to a community in need.
What the future of travel looks like.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
TravelMammal is a...2021-01-2231 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #33 | Shanny Hill, Marketing Manager @ TDA Global CyclingEpisode #33 of the Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features Shanny Hill, Marketing Manager at TDA Global Cycling.
An internationally recognized and awarded cycling tour company, TDA Global Cycling offers spectacular cycling experiences worldwide, including the 5-month long Tour d'Afrique. In this episode, we discuss everything cycling, including:
The 7 Epics that TDA Global Cycling offers.
5-week Cycling Tours that TDA Global Cycling offers.
Is cycling a more preferred travel style in future.
The growth of bike sharing programs worldwide.
Cycling as a global unifier.
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations...2021-01-1826 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #16 | Jantine Van Kregten, Director of Communications @ Ottawa TourismFact Up Podcast, episode #16 features Jantine Van Kregten, Director of Communications @ Ottawa Tourism.
In this episode, we talk everything tourism in Ottawa, including:
Exceptional Ottawa experiences every visitor should enjoy.
Health and safety protocols and keeping everyone safe.
What Ottawa Tourism is doing to promote the city post Covid.
Virtual experiences from Canada's Capital.
About the Fact Up Podcast: The Fact Up Podcast features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
2021-01-1432 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #32 | Brad Long, Owner/Chef @ Cafe Belong and CateringFact Up Podcast, episode #32 features Brad Long, Chef and Owner of Cafe Belong and Belong Catering in Toronto.
In this episode, we talk everything restaurants, including:
Why restaurants seem to have been targeted by government regulations.
Whether Brad's menu has changed because of Covid.
Brad's thoughts on food delivery companies.
The restaurant experience going forward.
About the Fact Up Podcast: The Fact Up Podcast features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
2021-01-1030 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #25 | Jerry Grymek, VP Client Relations @ LMA CommunicationsEpisode #25 features Guest Jerry Grymek, VP of Client Relations at LMA Communications.
In his role, Jerry works with both travel brands and influencers worldwide. In this episode, we discuss many topics, including:
How to immerse yourself in a trip.
Challenges Jerry's faced during Covid-19 as it relates to his work in the travel industry.
The importance of perspective when abroad.
Whether the USA tourism industry has taken a hit, and many more topics.
2021-01-0743 minFact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #31 | Kathryn Munro, Director of International Sales + Marketing @ CanaDreamFact Up Podcast - Episode #31 features Kathryn Munro, the Director of International Sales + Marketing at CanaDream.
In this episode, we talk everything RV's and CanaDream including:
Why RV'ing has become so popular during the Covid era.
Why RV'ing is so popular with the younger generations.
What people must consider before investing in an RV.
RV'ing as the ideal vacation?
Unifying power of the RV and bringing families closer.
Winter RV experience.
2021-01-0437 min
Fact Up Podcast with Jim BamboulisFact Up Podcast | Episode #20 | Tom Hall, VP Experiences @ Lonely PlanetTom Hall is the VP of Experience at Lonely Planet. We discuss various topics including:
Whether the feeling of gratitude will make a return to travel.
How the pandemic has affected Tom on a professional and personal level.
Whether Lonely Planet has been ahead of the game when it comes to responsible travel.
Whether content and type of content changes post Coronavirus.
Effects Coronavirus has had on over tourism.
2020-12-1730 min