Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio: Paige Watts, Atlanta Author and ‘What’s With Atlanta?’

Rick talks with Atlanta author and author of the new book: What’s With Atlanta?

Paige Watts

Why is every street in Atlanta named “Peachtree”? What do Atlantans mean when they say “Inside the Perimeter” or “Outside the Perimeter”? Why can’t Atlanta handle a little snow? Why do locals hate it when you call it “Hotlanta”? These and many of your other burning questions about life in Atlanta make up What’s With Atlanta?, a guide to some of the most unique aspects of Georgia’s capital city.

Author Paige Watts dives deep into the history and culture of Atlanta, from its beginnings as a railroad hub to its status as “Hollywood of the South.” Atlanta is full of one-of-a-kind attractions, unique festivals and traditions, architectural marvels, and a mix of Southern comfort food and international cuisines that make it a city unlike any other.

Want to know how Atlanta became the home of the Braves or what part fried chicken played in the Civil Rights Movement? This book will satisfy your curiosity about all the little things that make Atlanta tick and all the big events that shaped the city’s history. Whether you’re a local or are just passing through, a tourist or a life-long resident, this entertaining guide will answer all these questions and more.

Seasoned travel writer and Atlanta local Paige Watts has spent a decade writing about all things travel. She chronicles her journeys on her blog, PaigeMindsTheGap.com, where she highlights the joys of visiting Southern destinations. In addition to her blog, Paige has written for a number of online and print publications, including the Culture Trip, Matador Network, Epicure & Culture, MSN, and Travel the South. She received a double Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Evansville in Creative Writing and Literature, with a minor in International Studies.

Here’s some talking points from the book:

Atlanta has over 70 streets with “Peachtree” in the name.

Atlanta was founded as the end of a train line, which is where it got its original name Terminus.

Atlanta is a haven of street art with over 200 murals.

Atlanta Pride started as a 100-person rally and has grown to a massive month-long celebration in October.

The Fox Theatre was originally built in the 1920s as the headquarters for Atlanta’s Shriners organization.

Atlanta is at the center of Georgia’s film industry, earning it the nickname “Hollywood of the South” – In 2016, there were more major films made in Georgia than in California.

Buford Highway has more than 1,000 immigrant-owned businesses, more than 100 of which are restaurants.

The Big Chicken, Marietta’s beloved landmark, is so distinct that pilots use the building as a reference point when landing.

The Braves are the oldest continuously operating professional sports franchise in the country.

Atlanta has the largest concentration of colleges and universities in the South.

Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio 9/18/23 - Eric Napoli, VP of Legal and Leader of the Tech & Innovation team at AirHelp

Rick and Eric Napoli of AirHelp talk travel this week.

The more we fly, the more we might need AirHelp.

AirHelp makes claiming compensation for delayed or canceled flights straightforward for all airline passengers who are unsure of their rights, or who lack the time or expertise to embark on the claims process themselves. AirHelp stands up to airlines in court, and campaigns for national governments to introduce fair air travel rights. AirHelp has helped countless passengers through its fight for compensation and justice from airlines.

Rick is joined by Eric Napoli of AirHelp.

Napoli is VP of Legal and Leader of the Tech & Innovation team at AirHelp, the world’s largest organization specializing in air passenger rights. Eric is also a professor at IE Business School, as well as Headspring, a joint venture between the Financial Times & IE University’s Business School. Prior to joining AirHelp, Eric worked at Amadeus IT group as their Senior Counsel, where he led a  global team of lawyers supporting Amadeus’ worldwide Airport IT, Rail, Innovation and Advertising business units. Eric lives in Madrid, Spain, where he has been based for over 20 years. Eric earned his J.D. from American University and his MBA from IE Business School.

Eric helps us learn our rights when flying.

Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio 5/15/23 - Terry Dale, President and CEO of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) on Summer Travel

Rick is joined by Terry Dale of the USTOA this week.

According to the Summer Travel Survey & Trends 2023 report by The Vacationer, a whopping 85% of Americans plan to travel this summer and 42% of Americans are planning to travel more this summer compared to last. With a vast array of destinations and styles of vacations available, how can travelers save much-valued time and money in navigating the where, how, when and even why of planning a vacation? In this interview, Terry Dale, president & CEO of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) will discuss the uptick in summer travel and current travel trends. He can also share the benefits of booking a guided tour as well as offer up some ‘off the beaten path’ destinations to plan your next adventure!

TERRY’S TRAVEL TRENDS INCLUDE:

OFF THE BEATEN PATH ITINERARIES – Unique destinations like Türkiye are growing in popularity. Türkiye welcomed 51.4 million visitors in 2022, making it one of the world’s most prominent travel destinations. Apart from its successful figures, Türkiye is also a pioneer country in sustainable tourism and started a nationwide sustainable tourism program in 2022. Tour operators like Collette bring guests off the beaten path to secret hideaways like Dalyan, a relaxing riverbank town connected to the Mediterranean Sea and filled with local charm.

CULTURE IS IN – Countries such as Malta offer thousands of years of intriguing history. Malta, a Mediterranean Archipelago with three sister islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state. Club Adventures’ Malta tour offers exceptional culinary experiences, and visits to local craft villages so that you’re fully immersed in the culture.

SIMPLE SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL – Zagreb is a Croatian city of delightful contrasts – it is both young and old, cosmopolitan, and alternative, a mix of Austro-Hungarian and modern architecture, bursting with over 30 museums, 30 theaters, and many galleries and festivals. Tour operators like Intrepid Travel work with locally owned and operated accommodations in Zagreb, which helps support the local economy and provides authentic experiences for travelers. Itineraries often include visits to local artisans, like Radiceva and Tkalciceva Street, and Ilica, where travelers can learn about traditional crafts like embroidery, pottery and woodworking while also supporting small, local businesses.

For more information please visit: www.ustoa.com/tournow

Taaluma Totes with Founders Ethan and Jordan

Taaluma Totes, a backpack that has a mission to give back to the world and support entrepreneurs and small businesses through microloans. A company embracing a diverse culture, helping you carry your memories while you explore the world.

Have a listen:

Hand make right in California.

Here are just some reasons that make it a great backpack for travelers:

Fun fabrics from around the world - Show off a country’s culture through traditional fabrics.
Room for your cargo - Light excursions or heavy explorations, fit everything you need in one place.
Durable beyond belief - From travel to work or school, we’ve got your back.
A purchase that gives back - Each tote funds a microloan, supporting the country the fabric comes from.

Bios:

Ethan

A lover of travel, ecommerce, and helping those in need, Taaluma is the perfect fit for Ethan’s personal and professional background. Most of Ethan’s career is focused on helping improve and grow online businesses in a variety of industries. Now Ethan gets to do that while giving back to the global community through Taaluma’s mission. Outside of work, you’ll probably find Ethan in a Taaluma Tote hiking up a random mountain or exploring a new area.

Jordan

Jordan is a Florida native living in Southern California with a passion for healthy living, giving back, authenticity, and making connections through culture and travel. After working in digital marketing, social media, and ecommerce for 10 years, Jordan saw Taaluma as the ideal place to begin her entrepreneurial journey. As co-owner and operator, Jordan is able to put all of her energy and creativity into more than just a business. She gets to work with an amazing team to create one of a kind products with a mission that helps other people around the world also begin their entrepreneurial journeys. She believes in doing good, eating your veggies, and playing outside as much as possible. Her happy place is the beach while watching the sunset with her shoes in hand and her Taaluma Tote on her back.

Limpert Tech "SullyCast" on ALT 105.7 and iHeartRadio 11/13/21 - Jay Leonard, Complex General Manager at Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs

Rick talks to Jay Leonard this week. Jay is the Complex General Manager at the Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort. A unique and fantastic property.

Have a listen:

Jay is a great guest, has done it all in the hospitality industry, a big sports fan and "gets it" when it comes to what guests want when they travel.

Immerse yourself in fantasy, fun, and family-friendly adventure at our Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs™ Resort Area hotel. With amenities that include extensive leisure facilities, several restaurants, and conference rooms, everything you need for an amazing vacation is readily available, while our modern, spacious guest rooms offer a great place to rest after a day of magical exploration. This is the closest resort to Disney Springs and you'll have a great stay!

Rick and Jay have a lot to discuss and a fun interview!