Work + Wander

Episode 21: Happy Is the Strategy with Liz Johnson on Location

Elizabeth Johnson has spent 20 years with Travel + Leisure Co. — and somewhere along the way, a podcast in a school pickup line changed everything. In this episode, Liz joins Jess and Jay to talk about her journey from Fairfield Resorts to frontline sales, and the passion project nobody asked for but everyone keeps signing up for: "The Happy Class". Plus, Park City ski runs, a $249 trip to St. Martin, and why "calm" is her one word for the perfect getaway.

Episode 20: From Needing a Chance to Changing Lives with Aaron Evans on Location

For the first full Work + Wander episode on location, Jess and Jay head to Myrtle Beach to sit down with Aaron Evans, Director of Sales & Marketing. Aaron shares the story of how a $50 interview outfit turned into a life-changing career — and how he now helps others do the same. From leadership to mindset to unforgettable travel moments, this episode is all about what’s possible when you bet on yourself.

Episode 19: On Location in Myrtle Beach with Angela Small

We took Work + Wander on the road. Recorded on location in Myrtle Beach, this episode marks the start of our new “On Location” series. Jay and Jessica are joined by Angela Small for a quick, unscripted conversation covering travel, career, and a fast-paced Suitcase Sprint — all recorded just feet apart for the first time. A short episode, and a preview of what’s to come.

Episode 18: Events, Experiences, and Everything In Between with Louis Acosta

In this episode of Work + Wander, hosts Jessica Badlam and Jay Cocorullo sit down with Louis Acosta, Senior Vice President of Sports, Entertainment, Event Marketing and Sales at Travel + Leisure Co. From launching his career on the beaches of Cozumel to leading large-scale, best-in-class events across the industry, Louis shares how a passion for hospitality turned into a career built on creating unforgettable experiences. The conversation explores what it really takes to design moments that go beyond the expected — from bucket-list events and exclusive partnerships to the idea that “better is better.” Louis also reflects on how travel shapes perspective, why experiences matter more than ever, and how meaningful moments can leave a lasting impact long after the trip ends. Plus, stay tuned until the end for an exciting announcement you won’t want to miss — and hear why the best trip is always the next one. Hot Jobs from your hosts: Jessica: https://c.flockity.com/c/TNLJessica [https://c.flockity.com/c/TNLJessica] Jay: https://c.flockity.com/c/TNLJay [https://c.flockity.com/c/TNLJay]

Episode 17: Referrals, Results, and Gorilla Treks with Faizzan Sadruddin

Sales manager Faizzan Sadruddin joins Work + Wander to share how he went from a new sales agent to a team leader at Travel + Leisure Co. and why referrals, mentorship, and a positive culture make all the difference. Faizzan also shares stories from his honeymoon adventure across Africa, including gorilla trekking in Uganda, a safari in Kenya, and time in Zanzibar. It is a conversation about career growth, building strong teams, and the unforgettable travel experiences that make it all worthwhile.