During my epic four journeys, I engaged in vibrant conversations with nearly a thousand individuals and delivered 19 impassioned speeches—primarily to Rotary Clubs. I crossed the vast landscapes of the United States and Canada, touching down in 53 cities across 39 states and eight provinces, covering an astonishing 26,403 miles.
Though I set out to interview people in those 53 cities, my adventures led me to 64 unique locations, as some arduous drives demanded overnight stops along the way. My diverse lodgings included:
- 56 Airbnb homes (some were solo retreats, others shared with the host)
- One tiny Airbnb treehouse (for real!)
- Four homes of family
- Two homes of friends
- One hotel
Of all these travel experiences, my visit to Richmond, Virginia, stood out as particularly pivotal. As any aspiring author knows, the struggle for credibility is relentless. Yet, when an idea possesses merit, it can find its way to the light. I owe a debt of gratitude to Bill Lohmann, a reporter at The Richmond-Times Dispatch, for believing in my vision. On February 17, 2023, his article graced the front page of that daily newspaper, marking a significant moment in my journey.