United Planet Radio

Global Nomad on Getting the Travel Bug - Francis Tapon - United Planet Radio Ep. 30

To say Francis Tapon is a traveler is an under-statment. He’s more of a guru whose committed his life to seeing every little corner of the world. Mostly by foot. He’s walked the two major trails in North America, one of which took him 5,000 miles south into Mexico, and he spent five years walking through Africa, stopping along the way in various areas in an attempt to gain a better understanding of the human condition that exists elsewhere than from where he was born. While on his journey he met his wife and realized that he had found his calling. Now, Francis has dedicated himself to traveling the world, writing and hosting a podcast on which he discusses his exploits and provides advice for those looking to embark on trans-continental journeys.

Man of Many Talents - Arnaud Collery - United Planet Radio Ep. 29

In Arnaud’s vision of the world, a few things are required. First, travel. Find a way. Any way. Work the bag checkout at the grocery store. Deliver newspapers in the early mornings (Yes, newspapers are still in circulation). Whatever you have to do to make it work, do that. Second, learn a language, or two. Arnaud is a passionate spokesperson and storyteller. He has been traveling the world since his teenage years and hasn’t stopped for a moment. Keep in mind our conversation was done over the phone as Arnaud was in California at the time of our call so our audio is a bit spotty.

Life of a Diligent Journalist - Laura Kasinof - United Planet Radio Ep. 28

We spoke with renowned journalist Laura Kasinof. She provided great insight into the challenges and necessities of working as a foreign correspondent. Her work has appeared in many newspapers, magazines and journals including The New York Times, The Atlantic, Vice, The Guardian and more. Her work spans a wide range of subjects including but not limited to US foreign policy, migration and religion. Laura reported for The New York Times during the height of the Arab Spring in Yemen. Her story which followed a Syrian Refugee family in Berlin received a citation by the Overseas Press Club. She is also the author of Don't Be Afraid of the Bullets: An Accidental War Correspondent in Yemen. Currently, Laura resides in Tbilisi, Georgia. She has taken a more long-form approach to journalism and continues to advocate for strident reporting. In addition to English, she speaks both Yemeni and Egyptian Arabic.

Fighting for Democracy - Dalia Zaida - United Planet Radio Ep. 27

Dalia is a human rights activist from Egypt. She spends her days writing and looking for areas to increase democratic values in her native Egypt. She is currently operating as the Director of Liberal Democracy of Egypt, a Cairo based think tank dedicated to promoting and advising policy makers on the advancements of human rights.

Re-Introducing United Planet in Japan - Naoko Jin And Husband - United Planet Radio Ep. 26

Naoko Jin, who co-operates a Cafe in Okazaki City with her husband Kuniomi Asai, sat down to chat with us about our newly developed program in Japan. Her love for Okazaki city is entrenched in the cities reminiscent nature. Built during Japan’s Edo period, Okazaki city is often described in folkloric fashion. Naoko and her husband Kuniomi, who has had a long career as a war correspondent, are excited to bring volunteers into the city they love.