For 20 years, Samantha Brown has traversed continents, experienced culture, and tasted adventure applying her…
My First Day Hosting a Travel Show
For me, hosting a travel show is the best job in the world.
It’s hard to believe that I’ve been doing this for over 16 years. I’ve learned a lot since it all began, which became apparent to me after revisiting this video from my first day on the job.
It was the year 2000, and Travel Channel hired me for a show called Great Vacation Homes. I was so nervous. There were all these lights and producers and directors… and I had no idea what to do.
I couldn’t think of what to say. My inner voice kept shouting, “You’re doing it wrong!” Television host? Ha– what is a television host supposed to say or do?! And then there was the whole about about owning a vacation home. I didn’t know anything about that. I felt like an imposter, and it was just a matter of time before everyone else figured it out.
At one point, I thought I’d for sure get fired.
Ultimately, I decided to just be myself. I made it a point to connect with people in a real way. I didn’t try to be “on” or pretend to be someone I’m not. Instead, I talked to people as I would in real life, and tried not to take everything so seriously. I wasn’t an “expert,” I was just a normal, everyday person who happened to have a really cool job.
It might sound silly, but when I stopped trying to be a television host, I actually became one. I love what I do, and it’s been a fun and wild ride.
What’s your dream job? Share in the comments!
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You are great! Now, get cack on television!!!
Actually, you are doing my dream job. Hosting a travel channel show. When I experimented with hosting a small travel segment it confirmed my desire. Congrats on your 16 years fellow brooklynite!
You have to ask? Being a Samantha Brown (or a reasonably close facsimile) is our dream job! Thanks for all of the fun and inspiration!
Oddly enough, I’m trying to do my own personal take on traveling by staying with a “co-host” for a week and sharing a bunch of things (including food!). And all the while being myself. Thank you for being YOU.
First and foremost thank you for confirming that you aren’t in fact as real and wonderful as the shows have conveyed. I grew up watching you travel the world and the connection with people always stuck with me. As for my own dream job it’s to own farms and retreats all over the world that host fabulous events and provides people the chance to reconnect with others in a way that calls for genuine hospitality. Plus it gives me the excuse to travel the world, meet new people and create places that help to connect, inspire and uplift people. But first I plan to use stand up comedy to bridge the gap between people and remind us that laughter and love is all we need. Once again thank you and may you continue to live the life of your dreams and inspire others to do the same. Warmest Regards, Chanel.
You are exactly as I remember when you visited our mutual Ohio friends over a decade ago. Love seeing you over and over again!
I work for a large travel company and get to go to some great places. I mostly like helping others plan their dream trips!
Samantha, your job is my dream job! ???? I have loved watching your show, and hearing the story of how you got to where you are today – well you deserve your hard earned success. While I am now in the second half of life(55) I still dream of having a job like yours…maybe I should do more than just dream….
You have always inspired me! I want to see more of the world because of your authenticity. I do have my dream job. I own a culinary tour, which allows me to meet hundreds of people from all over the world, and to share my city with them.
I’ve been watching the whole time Sami.
Loved all your shows, and Great Vacation Homes was my introduction to the Travel Channel. So, so disappointed in what the channel has become. I’d love to see you on another show.
[…] this year, I was privileged to hear Samantha Brown deliver an upbeat and entertaining KEYNOTE SPEACH, in Huntsville Alabama during TBEX Travel Blogger […]
i really love your job. though i know it’s tiring to travel from one place to another for a short period but the fact that you’re able to connect with these people from the other side of the world sure is very exciting and mind blowing! from the first day i saw your show at travel channel – i fall in love! i remember waiting for the time slot whenever your show will be aired. so what’s my dream job?!? defintely like yours samantha!
I love traveling. Have been to 450/1000 things to do before you die. Your one of my favorite hosts because you are not fake. You tell it like it is. Your an inspiration to watch and I’m glad you didn’t listen to that inner voice.
I have been watching you for years and always loved your travel shows. By the way, I have 2 sets of your luggage and love it.