<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms">Send us a text</a>Ever wonder what mistakes pilgrims make on the Camino de Santiago? In this episode, Dan Jarvis shares his biggest lessons, surprises, and why he keeps returning to walk the Camino again and again.Join host Leigh Brennan of The Camino Cafe Podcast for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Dan Jarvis, creator of Camino Hacks and Tips. Together, they explore what the Camino teaches us when things don’t go as planned — from packing regrets and planning missteps to the deeper emotional lessons of walking The Way.Dan opens up about what led to his first Camino de Santiago journey in 2016, as well as stories from the numerous other Caminos he has walked since then. He shares vulnerable moments of struggle and self-discovery, and how walking continues to heal his anxiety and shape his purpose. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or a seasoned walker, this episode offers a mix of inspiration, laughter, and honest reflections from the trail and life back home. 🎧 In This Episode:<ul><li>Common Camino de Santiago mistakes (and how to avoid them)</li><li>What keeps Dan coming back to the Camino Frances</li><li>How the Camino helps Dan with anxiety and restores clarity</li><li>The power of solo travel and pilgrimage</li><li>Lessons learned from years of walking The Way</li></ul>🛤️ About Dan Jarvis: Dan is a UK-based Camino pilgrim who has been walking Caminos since 2016. He is the content creator of Camino Hacks and Tips, a YouTube Channel, where he shares his passion for the Camino along with practical advice and heartfelt stories to help others prepare for their own Camino de Santiago journeys. Camino Hacks and Tips has over 3 million views! Visit the links below to connect more with Dan! 🔴 ▶️Camino Hacks and Tips YouTube Channel <a href='https://www.youtube.com/@Caminohacks'>https://www.youtube.com/@Caminohacks</a>Episodes mentioned in the interview:🔴 ▶️Camino Primitivo <a href='https://youtu.be/CHoj97X2vR8?si=IeffATBD83hTTuD5'>https://youtu.be/CHoj97X2vR8?si=IeffATBD83hTTuD5</a>🔴 ▶️The Truth About Walking the Camino de Santiago - 6 Things You NEED to Know Before You Start<a href='https://youtu.be/Pea_0sV4Uvg?si=_yfoH0Q8ddUky48h'>https://youtu.be/Pea_0sV4Uvg?si=_yfoH0Q8ddUky48h</a>📸 Camino Hacks and Tips Instagram <a href='https://www.instagram.com/caminohacksandtips/'>https://www.instagram.com/caminohacksandtips/</a><a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support">Support the show</a>Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast: 🎙️💖 <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'>https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support</a> Buy Me a Coffee: ☕️💛 <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: 🔴 ▶️<a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'>https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw</a> Follow us on Instagram: 📸 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'>https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/</a> 🎵 The Camino Cafe&apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &quot;Finnis Terre&quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms"&gt;Send us a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Ever wonder what mistakes pilgrims make on the Camino de Santiago?&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; In this episode, Dan Jarvis shares his biggest lessons, surprises, and why he keeps returning to walk the Camino again and again.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join host &lt;b&gt;Leigh Brennan&lt;/b&gt; of &lt;em&gt;The Camino Cafe Podcast&lt;/em&gt; for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with &lt;b&gt;Dan Jarvis&lt;/b&gt;, creator of &lt;em&gt;Camino Hacks and Tips.&lt;/em&gt; Together, they explore what the Camino teaches us when things don’t go as planned — from packing regrets and planning missteps to the deeper emotional lessons of walking The Way.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Dan opens up about what led to his first Camino de Santiago journey in 2016, as well as stories from the numerous other Caminos he has walked since then. He shares vulnerable moments of struggle and self-discovery, and how walking continues to heal his anxiety and shape his purpose. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or a seasoned walker, this episode offers a mix of inspiration, laughter, and honest reflections from the trail and life back home. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎧 &lt;b&gt;In This Episode:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Common &lt;em&gt;Camino de Santiago mistakes&lt;/em&gt; (and how to avoid them)&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;What keeps Dan coming back to the &lt;em&gt;Camino Frances&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;How the &lt;em&gt;Camino helps Dan with anxiety and restores clarity&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The power of &lt;em&gt;solo travel and pilgrimage&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Lessons learned from years of walking The Way&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;🛤️ &lt;b&gt;About Dan Jarvis:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; Dan is a UK-based Camino pilgrim who has been walking Caminos since 2016. He is the content creator of &lt;em&gt;Camino Hacks and Tips, a YouTube Channel, &lt;/em&gt;where he shares his passion for the Camino along with practical advice and heartfelt stories to help others prepare for their own Camino de Santiago journeys. Camino Hacks and Tips has over 3 million views! Visit the links below to connect more with Dan! &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔴 ▶️&lt;b&gt;Camino Hacks and Tips YouTube Channel &lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/@Caminohacks'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@Caminohacks&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Episodes mentioned in the interview:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔴 ▶️&lt;b&gt;Camino Primitivo &lt;/b&gt;&lt;a href='https://youtu.be/CHoj97X2vR8?si=IeffATBD83hTTuD5'&gt;https://youtu.be/CHoj97X2vR8?si=IeffATBD83hTTuD5&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔴 ▶️&lt;b&gt;The Truth About Walking the Camino de Santiago - 6 Things You NEED to Know Before You Start&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://youtu.be/Pea_0sV4Uvg?si=_yfoH0Q8ddUky48h'&gt;https://youtu.be/Pea_0sV4Uvg?si=_yfoH0Q8ddUky48h&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📸 &lt;b&gt;Camino Hacks and Tips Instagram &lt;/b&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/caminohacksandtips/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/caminohacksandtips/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;🎙️💖 &lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'&gt;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Buy Me a Coffee:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;☕️💛 &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:&lt;br/&gt; 🔴 ▶️&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Follow us on Instagram: &lt;br/&gt;📸 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🎵 The Camino Cafe&amp;apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &amp;quot;Finnis Terre&amp;quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us a text Ever wonder what mistakes pilgrims make on the Camino de Santiago?  In this episode, Dan Jarvis shares his biggest lessons, surprises, and why he keeps returning to walk the Camino again and again. Join host Leigh Brennan of The Camino Cafe Podcast for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Dan Jarvis, creator of Camino Hacks and Tips. Together, they explore what the Camino teaches us when things don’t go as planned — from packing regrets and planning missteps to the deep...

127 - Dan Jarvis: Camino de Santiago Mistakes I Made — and Why I Keep Going Back

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms">Send us a text</a>What if a walk changed the entire trajectory of your life? For Judy of Spanish Steps, a spontaneous decision to walk the Camino de Santiago in 1994 sparked a journey that would transform everything.<a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8'>00:00</a> Preview <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=53s'>00:53</a> How a gift started it all <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=180s'>03:00</a> Meeting her Camino Family <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=906s'>15:06</a> How the Camino Tour Company, Spanish Steps, Started <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=1474s'>24:34</a> How the Camino de Santiago has changed <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=1747s'>29:07</a> Splitting time between the US and Spain <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=1997s'>33:17</a> Tips for moving to Spain <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;t=2739s'>45:39</a> Falling in Love on the Camino When Judy first set foot on the Camino, she walked alone through dusty wheat fields, not encountering a single pilgrim for days. The pilgrim experience was vastly different then—no smartphones, no apps, just a guidebook and the occasional payphone for making expensive international calls. At an albergue in Puente la Reina, everything changed when she met a group of international pilgrims—including a handsome Spanish man named Juan Carlos who would later become her husband. This captivating conversation reveals how their Camino romance blossomed into a 30-year partnership that includes running Spanish Steps, a company that has guided countless groups across various Camino routes. Judy shares the remarkable story of how she asked Santiago for a sign about whether to start guiding pilgrims, only to have her press release published in the LA Times a month later—launching her unexpected career. Beyond the business side, Judy offers intimate insights into the challenges and rewards of expat life in rural Spain. Having renovated an old farmhouse in Asturias into a boutique hotel, she speaks candidly about language barriers, integration challenges, and why maintaining connections to your home country might be the wisest approach for Camino-inspired dreamers. Whether you&apos;re contemplating your first Camino or fantasizing about opening an albergue someday, Judy&apos;s three decades of wisdom provide both inspiration and practical guidance. Her story reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful journeys don&apos;t end in Santiago—they&apos;re just beginning there.Connect with Judy and Spanish Steps: Spanish Steps Website<a href='https://spanishsteps.com/'>https://spanishsteps.com/</a> Hotel Rural Fuentes de Lucía<a href='https://spanishsteps.com/our-hotel/'></a><a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support">Support the show</a>Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast: 🎙️💖 <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'>https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support</a> Buy Me a Coffee: ☕️💛 <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: 🔴 ▶️<a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'>https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw</a> Follow us on Instagram: 📸 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'>https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/</a> 🎵 The Camino Cafe&apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &quot;Finnis Terre&quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms"&gt;Send us a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if a walk changed the entire trajectory of your life? For Judy of Spanish Steps, a spontaneous decision to walk the Camino de Santiago in 1994 sparked a journey that would transform everything.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8'&gt;00:00&lt;/a&gt; Preview&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=53s'&gt;00:53&lt;/a&gt; How a gift started it all&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=180s'&gt;03:00&lt;/a&gt; Meeting her Camino Family&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=906s'&gt;15:06&lt;/a&gt; How the Camino Tour Company, Spanish Steps, Started&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=1474s'&gt;24:34&lt;/a&gt; How the Camino de Santiago has changed &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=1747s'&gt;29:07&lt;/a&gt; Splitting time between the US and Spain&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=1997s'&gt;33:17&lt;/a&gt; Tips for moving to Spain&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p22Vo-z20h8&amp;amp;t=2739s'&gt;45:39&lt;/a&gt; Falling in Love on the Camino&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;When Judy first set foot on the Camino, she walked alone through dusty wheat fields, not encountering a single pilgrim for days. The pilgrim experience was vastly different then—no smartphones, no apps, just a guidebook and the occasional payphone for making expensive international calls. At an albergue in Puente la Reina, everything changed when she met a group of international pilgrims—including a handsome Spanish man named Juan Carlos who would later become her husband.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;This captivating conversation reveals how their Camino romance blossomed into a 30-year partnership that includes running Spanish Steps, a company that has guided countless groups across various Camino routes. Judy shares the remarkable story of how she asked Santiago for a sign about whether to start guiding pilgrims, only to have her press release published in the LA Times a month later—launching her unexpected career.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Beyond the business side, Judy offers intimate insights into the challenges and rewards of expat life in rural Spain. Having renovated an old farmhouse in Asturias into a boutique hotel, she speaks candidly about language barriers, integration challenges, and why maintaining connections to your home country might be the wisest approach for Camino-inspired dreamers.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Whether you&amp;apos;re contemplating your first Camino or fantasizing about opening an albergue someday, Judy&amp;apos;s three decades of wisdom provide both inspiration and practical guidance. Her story reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful journeys don&amp;apos;t end in Santiago—they&amp;apos;re just beginning there.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Connect with Judy and Spanish Steps:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Spanish Steps Website&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://spanishsteps.com/'&gt;https://spanishsteps.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Hotel Rural Fuentes de Lucía&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://spanishsteps.com/our-hotel/'&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;🎙️💖 &lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'&gt;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Buy Me a Coffee:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;☕️💛 &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:&lt;br/&gt; 🔴 ▶️&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Follow us on Instagram: &lt;br/&gt;📸 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🎵 The Camino Cafe&amp;apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &amp;quot;Finnis Terre&amp;quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us a text What if a walk changed the entire trajectory of your life? For Judy of Spanish Steps, a spontaneous decision to walk the Camino de Santiago in 1994 sparked a journey that would transform everything. 00:00 Preview 00:53 How a gift started it all 03:00 Meeting her Camino Family 15:06 How the Camino Tour Company, Spanish Steps, Started 24:34 How the Camino de Santiago has changed  29:07 Splitting time between the US and Spain 33:17 Tips for moving to Spain 45:39 Falling in Love on...

126 - Judy Colaneri: The Camino Changed Everything 

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms">Send us a text</a>The rain beats down on Santiago de Compostela&apos;s ancient stones as Johnny Walker connects from the Parador&apos;s Royal Dining Room, overlooking sodden pilgrims braving hailstones and downpours during the spiritually significant Holy Week. Despite the weather, pilgrimage numbers continue to swell as travelers arrive hoping to experience Easter in this sacred city. Fresh from a whirlwind North American tour promoting &quot;The Way, My Way,&quot; Johnny shares heartwarming stories of packed theaters and pilgrim connections across major cities. What began as film screenings transformed into impromptu pilgrim gatherings, complete with blessing ceremonies using scallop shells from Santiago&apos;s cathedral. Most moving was a 16-year-old viewer who, inspired by the film, publicly committed to walking the Camino—receiving her own blessed shell amidst thunderous cries of &quot;Buen Camino&quot; from fellow audience members. Santiago&apos;s Holy Week traditions take center stage in our conversation, from Palm Sunday&apos;s blessed branches to Easter Sunday celebrations, with thirteen traditional processions threading through the city&apos;s narrow streets. Johnny provides fascinating historical context about the distinctive medieval penitent costumes worn during these processions, clearing up common misconceptions about their origins. We also discuss the Pilgrim Office&apos;s revised Compostela requirements, which now recognize journeys of at least 70 kilometers within Spain, and hear from veteran pilgrim Rocco Rossi, who perfectly articulates why so many of us return to the Camino time and again: &quot;If you find something in your life that brings you joy, clarity, and energy, the real question is why aren&apos;t you doing it more than once?&quot; Whether you&apos;re planning your first Camino or your twenty-first, this perspective reminds us of the path&apos;s enduring power to transform lives with each journey.<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support">Support the show</a>Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast: 🎙️💖 <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'>https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support</a> Buy Me a Coffee: ☕️💛 <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: 🔴 ▶️<a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'>https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw</a> Follow us on Instagram: 📸 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'>https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/</a> 🎵 The Camino Cafe&apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &quot;Finnis Terre&quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms"&gt;Send us a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The rain beats down on Santiago de Compostela&amp;apos;s ancient stones as Johnny Walker connects from the Parador&amp;apos;s Royal Dining Room, overlooking sodden pilgrims braving hailstones and downpours during the spiritually significant Holy Week. Despite the weather, pilgrimage numbers continue to swell as travelers arrive hoping to experience Easter in this sacred city.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Fresh from a whirlwind North American tour promoting &amp;quot;The Way, My Way,&amp;quot; Johnny shares heartwarming stories of packed theaters and pilgrim connections across major cities. What began as film screenings transformed into impromptu pilgrim gatherings, complete with blessing ceremonies using scallop shells from Santiago&amp;apos;s cathedral. Most moving was a 16-year-old viewer who, inspired by the film, publicly committed to walking the Camino—receiving her own blessed shell amidst thunderous cries of &amp;quot;Buen Camino&amp;quot; from fellow audience members.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Santiago&amp;apos;s Holy Week traditions take center stage in our conversation, from Palm Sunday&amp;apos;s blessed branches to Easter Sunday celebrations, with thirteen traditional processions threading through the city&amp;apos;s narrow streets. Johnny provides fascinating historical context about the distinctive medieval penitent costumes worn during these processions, clearing up common misconceptions about their origins. We also discuss the Pilgrim Office&amp;apos;s revised Compostela requirements, which now recognize journeys of at least 70 kilometers within Spain, and hear from veteran pilgrim Rocco Rossi, who perfectly articulates why so many of us return to the Camino time and again: &amp;quot;If you find something in your life that brings you joy, clarity, and energy, the real question is why aren&amp;apos;t you doing it more than once?&amp;quot; Whether you&amp;apos;re planning your first Camino or your twenty-first, this perspective reminds us of the path&amp;apos;s enduring power to transform lives with each journey.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;🎙️💖 &lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'&gt;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Buy Me a Coffee:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;☕️💛 &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:&lt;br/&gt; 🔴 ▶️&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Follow us on Instagram: &lt;br/&gt;📸 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🎵 The Camino Cafe&amp;apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &amp;quot;Finnis Terre&amp;quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us a text The rain beats down on Santiago de Compostela's ancient stones as Johnny Walker connects from the Parador's Royal Dining Room, overlooking sodden pilgrims braving hailstones and downpours during the spiritually significant Holy Week. Despite the weather, pilgrimage numbers continue to swell as travelers arrive hoping to experience Easter in this sacred city.  Fresh from a whirlwind North American tour promoting "The Way, My Way," Johnny shares heartwarming stories of packed the...

125 - Camino News Update is back - April 2025 - Walking Season is Kicking into Full Gear with Johnnie Walker Santiago and Rocco Rossi

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms">Send us a text</a>2026 Camino Walks with the Camino Cafe Podcast -  with Leigh and Rocco: Email <a href='mailto:leighbrennan+caminocafe@gmail.com'>mailto:leighbrennan+caminocafe@gmail.com</a> This week&apos;s show is sponsored by Airas Nunes:<a href='https://maps.app.goo.gl/bWr3YE8AveXj47zt6'>https://maps.app.goo.gl/bWr3YE8AveXj47zt6</a> If you like the work that&apos;s being done on The Camino Cafe Podcast, I&apos;d be honored if you supported me through &quot;Buy Me a Coffee&quot; :<a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> The Camino Cafe podcast makes an exciting return as host Leigh Brennan welcomes listeners back from a hiatus caused by her move to the United States. Though she misses the immediacy of Santiago and stepping directly onto Camino paths, Leigh shares her renewed commitment to promoting pilgrim journeys as pathways toward healing. Joining the conversation is veteran pilgrim Rocco Rossi, speaking directly from Santiago de Compostela after completing what he considers his 21st Camino since 2002. Rocco offers fascinating real-time insights about current conditions on various routes, noting dramatic differences in pilgrim traffic. While he walked the Camino Madrid completely alone, Santiago now welcomes over 2,000 pilgrims daily during Holy Week, with the vast majority arriving via the Frances or Portuguese routes. Rocco&apos;s wisdom shines through as he explains why he keeps returning to the Camino: &quot;If you find something in your life that brings you joy, clarity, and energy, the real question is why aren&apos;t you doing it more than once?&quot; He likens the Camino to an oxygen mask that centers and revitalizes him annually, enabling him to better navigate life&apos;s challenges. Despite walking solo at times, Rocco emphasizes that the heart of every Camino lies in the connections formed with locals and fellow pilgrims who enrich the journey immeasurably. The episode concludes with an exciting announcement about Leigh and Rocco potentially co-leading a group Camino in 2026, inviting listeners to share input about their ideal pilgrim experience. Whether you&apos;re planning your first Camino or your tenth, this episode rekindles the special magic that draws us to these ancient paths time and again. Email the address in the show notes to join the waitlist and help shape this future journey!<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support">Support the show</a>Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast: 🎙️💖 <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'>https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support</a> Buy Me a Coffee: ☕️💛 <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: 🔴 ▶️<a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'>https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw</a> Follow us on Instagram: 📸 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'>https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/</a> 🎵 The Camino Cafe&apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &quot;Finnis Terre&quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms"&gt;Send us a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;2026 Camino Walks with the Camino Cafe Podcast -  with Leigh and Rocco: &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Email &lt;a href='mailto:leighbrennan+caminocafe@gmail.com'&gt;mailto:leighbrennan+caminocafe@gmail.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This week&amp;apos;s show is sponsored by Airas Nunes:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://maps.app.goo.gl/bWr3YE8AveXj47zt6'&gt;https://maps.app.goo.gl/bWr3YE8AveXj47zt6&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you like the work that&amp;apos;s being done on The Camino Cafe Podcast, I&amp;apos;d be honored if you supported me through &amp;quot;Buy Me a Coffee&amp;quot; :&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The Camino Cafe podcast makes an exciting return as host Leigh Brennan welcomes listeners back from a hiatus caused by her move to the United States. Though she misses the immediacy of Santiago and stepping directly onto Camino paths, Leigh shares her renewed commitment to promoting pilgrim journeys as pathways toward healing.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Joining the conversation is veteran pilgrim Rocco Rossi, speaking directly from Santiago de Compostela after completing what he considers his 21st Camino since 2002. Rocco offers fascinating real-time insights about current conditions on various routes, noting dramatic differences in pilgrim traffic. While he walked the Camino Madrid completely alone, Santiago now welcomes over 2,000 pilgrims daily during Holy Week, with the vast majority arriving via the Frances or Portuguese routes.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Rocco&amp;apos;s wisdom shines through as he explains why he keeps returning to the Camino: &amp;quot;If you find something in your life that brings you joy, clarity, and energy, the real question is why aren&amp;apos;t you doing it more than once?&amp;quot; He likens the Camino to an oxygen mask that centers and revitalizes him annually, enabling him to better navigate life&amp;apos;s challenges. Despite walking solo at times, Rocco emphasizes that the heart of every Camino lies in the connections formed with locals and fellow pilgrims who enrich the journey immeasurably.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;The episode concludes with an exciting announcement about Leigh and Rocco potentially co-leading a group Camino in 2026, inviting listeners to share input about their ideal pilgrim experience. Whether you&amp;apos;re planning your first Camino or your tenth, this episode rekindles the special magic that draws us to these ancient paths time and again. Email the address in the show notes to join the waitlist and help shape this future journey!&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;🎙️💖 &lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'&gt;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Buy Me a Coffee:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;☕️💛 &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:&lt;br/&gt; 🔴 ▶️&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Follow us on Instagram: &lt;br/&gt;📸 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🎵 The Camino Cafe&amp;apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &amp;quot;Finnis Terre&amp;quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us a text 2026 Camino Walks with the Camino Cafe Podcast -  with Leigh and Rocco:  Email mailto:leighbrennan+caminocafe@gmail.com   This week's show is sponsored by Airas Nunes: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bWr3YE8AveXj47zt6   If you like the work that's being done on The Camino Cafe Podcast, I'd be honored if you supported me through "Buy Me a Coffee" : https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast   The Camino Cafe podcast makes an exciting return as host Leigh Brennan welcomes liste...

124  - The Camino Calls Us Back, No Matter How Far We Wander with Rocco Rossi

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms">Send us a text</a>What if embarking on a pilgrimage could transform your entire life? On this episode of Camino Cafe, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary Johnnie Walker, a revered figure in the Camino de Santiago community. Johnnie shares his profound connection to the Camino, recounting countless pilgrimages and extensive volunteer work that led him to settle in Santiago de Compostela. Discover how the tradition of Sunday lunches fills his life with joy, laughter, and captivating stories from friends old and new. We also explore Johnnie&apos;s life in Santiago and Malaga, balancing relaxation with his ongoing work, like penning guidebooks and leading groups such as the organization Age in Spain and the largest Camino Facebook group, Camino de Santiago All Routes, with a half million members and counting. Learn about his experiences walking the Camino Portuguese by the coast and the Camino Inglés, and his pivotal role in creating the first guidebook for the latter. Johnnie discusses the challenges of preserving the Camino’s heritage and ensuring accessibility, yet his unwavering love for the Camino and its vibrant community radiates through every word. In an emotionally charged segment, we delve into the transformative power of the Camino through heartfelt stories and film projects inspired by the pilgrimage. Johnnie shares a poignant personal story about overcoming childhood trauma, emphasizing the importance of self-forgiveness and communal healing. John Rafferty, who transitioned from a political career to a fulfilling life in Spain, recounts his journey of grace, forgiveness, and ultimate transformation into Johnnie Walker. From life lessons learned on the Camino to the impact of personal stories, this episode celebrates the enduring spirit of the pilgrimage, its transformative power,  and the profound connections it fosters. Join the Camino de Santiago All Routes Facebook Group: <a href='https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hiXBvrqqqPkzpuB5/ '>https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hiXBvrqqqPkzpuB5/ </a>Johnnie Walker&apos;s Books: <a href='https://www.amazon.com/stores/Johnnie-Walker/author/B06XT5CRHV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1725790010&amp;sr=8-1&amp;isDramIntegrated=true&amp;shoppingPortalEnabled=true'>https://www.amazon.com/stores/Johnnie-Walker/author/B06XT5CRHV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1725790010&amp;sr=8-1&amp;isDramIntegrated=true&amp;shoppingPortalEnabled=true</a> Age in Spain: <a href='https://www.ageinspain.org/'>https://www.ageinspain.org/</a> Academia Xacobea: <a href='http://academiaxacobea.gal/'>http://academiaxacobea.gal/</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support">Support the show</a>Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast: 🎙️💖 <a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'>https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support</a> Buy Me a Coffee: ☕️💛 <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'>https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast</a> Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: 🔴 ▶️<a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'>https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw</a> Follow us on Instagram: 📸 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'>https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/</a> 🎵 The Camino Cafe&apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &quot;Finnis Terre&quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1751717/open_sms"&gt;Send us a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if embarking on a pilgrimage could transform your entire life? On this episode of Camino Cafe, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary Johnnie Walker, a revered figure in the Camino de Santiago community. Johnnie shares his profound connection to the Camino, recounting countless pilgrimages and extensive volunteer work that led him to settle in Santiago de Compostela. Discover how the tradition of Sunday lunches fills his life with joy, laughter, and captivating stories from friends old and new.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We also explore Johnnie&amp;apos;s life in Santiago and Malaga, balancing relaxation with his ongoing work, like penning guidebooks and leading groups such as the organization Age in Spain and the largest Camino Facebook group, Camino de Santiago All Routes, with a half million members and counting. Learn about his experiences walking the Camino Portuguese by the coast and the Camino Inglés, and his pivotal role in creating the first guidebook for the latter. Johnnie discusses the challenges of preserving the Camino’s heritage and ensuring accessibility, yet his unwavering love for the Camino and its vibrant community radiates through every word.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;In an emotionally charged segment, we delve into the transformative power of the Camino through heartfelt stories and film projects inspired by the pilgrimage. Johnnie shares a poignant personal story about overcoming childhood trauma, emphasizing the importance of self-forgiveness and communal healing. John Rafferty, who transitioned from a political career to a fulfilling life in Spain, recounts his journey of grace, forgiveness, and ultimate transformation into Johnnie Walker. From life lessons learned on the Camino to the impact of personal stories, this episode celebrates the enduring spirit of the pilgrimage, its transformative power,  and the profound connections it fosters.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Join the Camino de Santiago All Routes Facebook Group:&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hiXBvrqqqPkzpuB5/ '&gt;https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hiXBvrqqqPkzpuB5/&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/a&gt;Johnnie Walker&amp;apos;s Books:&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.amazon.com/stores/Johnnie-Walker/author/B06XT5CRHV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;amp;qid=1725790010&amp;amp;sr=8-1&amp;amp;isDramIntegrated=true&amp;amp;shoppingPortalEnabled=true'&gt;https://www.amazon.com/stores/Johnnie-Walker/author/B06XT5CRHV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;amp;qid=1725790010&amp;amp;sr=8-1&amp;amp;isDramIntegrated=true&amp;amp;shoppingPortalEnabled=true&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Age in Spain: &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.ageinspain.org/'&gt;https://www.ageinspain.org/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Academia Xacobea:&lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='http://academiaxacobea.gal/'&gt;http://academiaxacobea.gal/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Become a supporter of The Camino Cafe Podcast:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;🎙️💖 &lt;a href='https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support'&gt;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1751717/support&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Buy Me a Coffee:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;☕️💛 &lt;a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast'&gt;https://buymeacoffee.com/caminocafepodcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:&lt;br/&gt; 🔴 ▶️&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Follow us on Instagram: &lt;br/&gt;📸 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/'&gt;https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🎵 The Camino Cafe&amp;apos;s intro and outro song is in thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - &amp;quot;Finnis Terre&amp;quot; - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send us a text What if embarking on a pilgrimage could transform your entire life? On this episode of Camino Cafe, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary Johnnie Walker, a revered figure in the Camino de Santiago community. Johnnie shares his profound connection to the Camino, recounting countless pilgrimages and extensive volunteer work that led him to settle in Santiago de Compostela. Discover how the tradition of Sunday lunches fills his life with joy, laughter, and captivating stories fr...

123 - Johnnie Walker: How Walking the Camino can Transform a Life

<div>The Camino is all about connection. Reconnecting to your soul and connecting with the people you meet while walking. Pour a glass of Vino Tinto at The Camino Cafe as we feature the stories of Pilgrims. We hope to inspire those that want to walk the Camino someday and to nurture the Camino essence for those that have already walked through telling the stories of our pilgrimages. Join Host, Leigh Brennan, as she discusses all things Camino with fellow Pilgrims. Interviews are also available on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw and at our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/thecaminocafehttps://linktr.ee/leighbrennan</div>

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