Have you ever wondered what life would be like if you left the comfort of home and lived out of a suitcase… for 300 days a year? Does the thought of exploring hidden corners of the world inspire you, or maybe just make you a little nervous?
In this episode of Inspiring Possible, host Christy Pennison sits down with world traveler, storyteller, and photographer Ian Poh Jin Tze, whose life reads like an adventure novel. From swapping suitcases in airports at dawn to rising before the sun for an uncertain flight in Burma, Ian Poh Jin Tze brings the world’s people and landscapes to our ears through his lens and his words.
The conversation takes us from the chaos of pandemic-era Malaysia and the global “toilet paper crisis,” through the laughter shared with strangers over what truly counts as essentials, to the heartfelt gifts of documenting lives that might otherwise go unseen. Ian Poh Jin Tze reveals how travel has shown him the deep value of genuine human connection, beyond scripts and formalities, and how slowing down to inhabit a moment can lead to profound stories—whether among ancient ruins or during acts of service in Sri Lanka.
Through stories of both breathtaking beauty and hair-raising misadventures (including 14-hour donkey rides on mountain edges!), Ian Poh Jin Tze shares the gifts of immersing yourself in the world: experiencing simplicity, discovering what it means to truly be present, and giving back through creative work that makes others feel seen.
As Christy and Ian reflect on following creative passions—and why you should pick up the camera or chase that dream—they invite listeners to consider the power of allowing yourself to come alive, wherever in the world you find yourself.
In this episode we explore:
- How living on the road reshapes your perspective on life and people
- The magic of authentic human connections made in unexpected moments
- The realities, mishaps, and wild adventures of a life devoted to travel and storytelling
- Using photography to shine light on unsung heroes and cultures around the world
- The importance of capturing the present and pursuing your creative passions—starting now
I’d say the biggest gift would be to understand the culture and sort of immerse yourself in that.
– Ian Poh Jin Tze
Don’t miss this inspiring episode that will challenge you to get out of your comfort zone (or maybe just pick up your camera) and see what’s possible outside the walls of “home.” Tune in to Inspiring Possible for an invitation to be present, connect, and embrace what makes you come alive.
About Ian Poh Jin Tze
Ian Poh Jin Tze is a globe-trotting writer, photographer, videographer, and journalist whose passion lies in telling untold stories from evry corner of the world. His evocative coffee table books and visual storytelling put a spotlight on lives rarely seen, from pandemic first responders to the farmers behind your favorite dishes. His work can be found on Instagram at @throughmyl3ica and @monk3yseendo, and on YouTube at Monk3yseendo©. To learn more or to purchase his books, visit his website here.
Ready to see the world through new eyes? Listen now and get inspired to create your own adventure!
