travel
In Traveling Through, David Prior—travel writer and founder of experiential travel company Prior—sits down with friends and culture-makers like Jenna Lyons, David Remnick, Deborah Needleman, Athena Calderone, and more to trace the trips, objects, and encounters that shaped who they are. Because the most interesting stories aren't about where you went. They're about what stayed with you. New episodes every other Thursday. Find it on Youtube, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Traveling Through is proudly presented by Capital One. Eligible cardholders can book unforgettable experiences at entertainment.capitalone.com. Traveling Through is hosted by David Prior. It is produced by Clare Slaughter along with Kristin Mendez and Drew Morris of Born Ready Films. Associate Producer is Alex Greiner. The Pushkin team includes Gretta Cohn, Jacob Weisberg, Eric Sandler, Grace Ross, Justin Richmond, Morgan Rater, Leah Rose, Sarah Bruguiere, Jake Gorksi, Jake Flanagin. Theme music com
Interior designer Nate Berkus shared the deep emotional and empathetic impact of experiencing the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami in Sri Lanka, where he lost his partner Fernando. He recounted how, despite the immense grief, the experience fostered a profound sense of empathy that reshaped his perspective on people and places.
Nate Berkus discussed his philosophy on interior design, emphasizing how objects tell stories and reflect the lives of the people who inhabit a space. He believes that the best interiors represent not only who people are currently but also their past experiences, losses, and aspirations.
Nate Berkus shared his formative experiences in Paris at age seventeen, where he was fascinated by the blend of modern life within an ancient setting. He found inspiration in the city's architectural history and the contrast between different design movements.
Nate Berkus shared a humorous anecdote about being denied entry to The Ritz in Paris due to his attire after a trip, contrasting it with the immediate and welcoming reception he received at Claridge's in London following the tsunami, which solidified his loyalty to the latter.
Nate Berkus detailed Oprah Winfrey's significant role in raising funds for Sri Lanka after the 2004 tsunami, which led to the construction of a vocational school named after his late partner, Fernando. Berkus initially hesitated but eventually returned to Sri Lanka a year later for the school's opening, describing it as a deeply restorative experience.
Nate Berkus discussed the concept of 'traveling through grief,' acknowledging the challenge of returning to places associated with loss. He shared how his experience in Laos, which stemmed from a decision to avoid the coast of Thailand after the tsunami, became a significant and cherished trip, highlighting the importance of embracing new experiences even amidst personal pain.
Nate Berkus described Luang Prabang, Laos, as one of his favorite places, praising the Aman resort's architecture, which is a former French colonial hospital. He highlighted the town's tranquil atmosphere, the saffron-robed monks, the night market, and the immersive cultural experiences, including a boat trip on the Mekong River.
Nate Berkus expressed a deep appreciation for handmade crafts from Mexico, noting their integral role in his home decor. He also shared his unexpected connection to Portugal, where he and his partner Jeremiah purchased a farm, finding charm in its slower pace of life, natural beauty, and the strong sense of community.
Nate Berkus discussed the unexpected charm of Portugal, noting its slower pace of life, emphasis on family and nature, and high-quality craftsmanship, particularly in textiles and footwear. He highlighted the family's farm and their integration into the local village community, experiencing genuine warmth and acceptance.
Nate Berkus shared insights into his current life phase, encompassing the joys of fatherhood, a strategic reboot of his brand with new licensing deals, and the emotional journey of caring for his mother who has dementia. He emphasized a thoughtful approach to future television projects, prioritizing meaningful opportunities over mere visibility.
Chef Andy Baraghani shared insights into his formative years at the renowned restaurant Chez Panisse, where he began working at sixteen. He emphasized the importance of continuous curiosity, practice, and especially tasting throughout the cooking process, lessons learned from his time there and from the restaurant's founder, Alice Waters.
Andy Baraghani draws a parallel between the abundant use of herbs in Persian cuisine and Vietnamese food, noting Vietnam as a place where he experienced a similar cultural embrace of fresh herbs. He highlights the country's diverse range of herbs and their integral role in dishes like 'Bún riêu' and 'Chả lá lốt'.
Andy Baraghani discovered a Vietnamese dish called 'Chả lá lốt' (fried fish with turmeric and dill) that reminded him strongly of Persian cuisine. He noted the use of dill, a significant herb in Persian cooking, and the dish's flavor profile, which shared similarities with Persian herb rice dishes, particularly 'Sabzi polo'.
Andy Baraghani discusses his trip to Beirut and meeting Kamal Mouzawak, founder of 'Souk el Tayeb,' a farmer's market aimed at cataloging Lebanese agricultural and food culture. Baraghani notes the market's location on the former Green Line as a symbol of reconciliation, bringing together women from diverse religious communities.
During his visit to Beirut, Andy Baraghani explored the Armenian neighborhood of Bourj Hammoud and was struck by the similarities between Armenian and Persian cuisines. He noted the delicate flavors, mildness, and use of sweet elements in both, contrasting them with the typical heat found in some other cuisines.
Andy Baraghani identifies Vietnam, Lebanon, and Turkey as three solo travel experiences that profoundly shaped his palate and cooking style. He particularly notes the influence of Turkish spices, like Urfa Biber, and the overall culinary discoveries made during these trips.
Andy Baraghani expresses his deep-seated yearning to visit Iran, a place he considers a missing piece due to his heritage. He describes the confusion of deeply engaging with Persian culture through food and language while being unable to visit, and his efforts to spread awareness of this culture, often misunderstood in the U.S., through his work.
Andy Baraghani and David Prior express a shared passion for Sicilian granita, with Baraghani highlighting its unique texture and Prior championing mulberry granita as his favorite. They discuss the fragility of mulberries and how they translate into this distinctively creamy, non-dairy frozen dessert.
Andy Baraghani shares his experiences in Japan, recommending it as a must-visit for food and design lovers. He suggests ending a trip in Tokyo for shopping and advises against over-planning, emphasizing a more relaxed approach to fully appreciate the country's quality and experiences.