Across New Skies

Amerie Goes to Spain

In this episode of Across New Skies, Jessica sits down with her cousin Amerie to revisit her very first experience abroad. At just 14 years old, Amerie left for a study program in Seville, Spain—an adventure that came with challenges no one could have predicted. Her story weaves together the excitement of independence, the struggles of being far from home, and the resilience it takes to adapt when nothing goes as planned. Now in her 20s, Amerie looks back with fresh perspective on a journey that shaped who she is today. It’s a conversation about courage, change, and what it means to keep moving forward when the path looks nothing like what you expected. Follow Amerie on Instagram @amerie_alyce [https://www.instagram.com/amerie_alyce/] Got thoughts or want to share your own story? Reach out! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays.

Jessica Goes To Iceland

In this episode of Across New Skies, things get a little personal—host Jessica steps into the guest chair to share the story of her first international trip abroad: Iceland, December 2017. Interviewed by returning guest Juan Ysaguirre, Jessica opens up about what led her to this impulsive winter adventure, the unexpected (but somehow fitting) travel companion she brought along, and how the experience cracked open a sense of freedom she didn’t realize she needed. From soaking in the Blue Lagoon to navigating Iceland’s rugged landscape in a camper van, this trip had it all—waterfalls, frozen craters, deep personal reflection... and maybe even a few ghosts of relationships past. This episode explores what happens when travel becomes both a literal and emotional journey, and how sometimes you just have to say yes to the moment—even if it’s kind of a wild idea. Got thoughts or want to share your own story? Reach out! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays.

Marissa Goes To Japan

In this episode of Across New Skies, Marissa takes us to Japan for her first international adventure… a trip that started with nerves, parental worry, and a few tech hiccups… but turned into a journey of confidence, exploration, and repeat visits. She shares what it was like navigating Tokyo, adjusting to culture shock, and finding joy in unexpected places. From international driving permits to pocket Wi-Fi, Marissa’s story is both practical and inspiring. Marissa now returns to Japan often, this time guiding others through their first trips abroad. Her confidence has grown, and her travel list keeps expanding—next up, she hopes to visit London and China! You can follow more of Marissa’s travel and lifestyle content here:  📸 Instagram: @hiosik [https://www.instagram.com/hiosik/] 📺 YouTube: @hiosik [https://www.youtube.com/@hiosik/videos] Got thoughts or want to share your own story? Reach out! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays.

Layover Lounge One (1)

In this special episode of Across New Skies, we take a quick detour from our usual guest stories and head to the Layover Lounge—a place to pause, reflect, and dive into some of the technical and logistical parts of international travel. Host Jessica covers topics that came up in the first four episodes, including the passport process, travel documents, carry-on vs. checked baggage, customs, and more. Whether you're planning your first trip abroad or just want a refresher, this episode breaks it all down in a friendly, no-stress way. As always, Jess is learning right alongside you.... everyone to do your own research to feel more confident before takeoff. Have travel questions or episode ideas? Let us know! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays. Safe travels, and we’ll catch you in the skies. General Passport Information:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html] Travel State [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Apply for a Passport (First-Time Applicants):  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html] Renew Your Passport:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html] Renew Your Passport Online:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html] Passport Fees:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html] Travel State [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Processing Times:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html] Passport Application Forms:  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html] Got thoughts or want to share your own story? Reach out! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays.

Sharon Goes To Israel

In this episode of Across New Skies, Sharon shares her joyful, unpredictable, and sometimes nerve-wracking first trip overseas to Israel. From airport surprises to unexpected challenges on the ground, her story is filled with warmth, humor, and that unstoppable love for new experiences. She talks about what it felt like to face her fear of heights on a mountain lift, and the moments that reminded her why she loves saying yes to the journey, even when it doesn’t go according to plan. Sharon invited Jessica into her home for this conversation, arriving with pages of thoughtful notes and a huge heart. It’s the kind of episode that leaves you smiling. Got thoughts or want to share your own story? Reach out! acrossnewskiespodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Bluesky: @acrossnewskiespod Episodes drop on Thursdays.