''The true essence of travel and life is found in the authentic, the raw, and the real experiences that challenge us to grow''
Theodora is the Founder of TravelOut -Â Blending The Magic Of AI With The Transformative Power Of Travel, Aiming To tackle Loneliness & Environmental Challenges. She has taken the challenge to answer our 20 Truth Questions, For us to gain some insight, And learn the Truth about the person behind the venture.
My TRUTH Story:
1. INTRODUCE YOURSELF IN THE THIRD PERSON TO A CROWD OF 10,000+ PEOPLE?
Allow me to introduce an individual whose life is a vivid tapestry of adventure, innovation, and unwavering optimism - Theodora.
Born under the star-spangled banner of the United States, raised amidst the historic beauty of Germany, and imbued with the spirited heritage of Greece, Theodora is truly a citizen of the world. With passports from three nations, she embodies the rich tapestry of cultures that define her.
From an early age, Theodora realized that travel was not just a passion but a profound teacher. Having explored over 10% of the globe, her journeys have been more than just treks; they've been transformative experiences, each new country a chapter in her book of self-discovery.
Theodora's academic journey is equally impressive, culminating in top honors in International Finance and Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management. Yet, it's her relentless pursuit of knowledge that led her to the lecture halls of Nuertingen, where she enlightens minds on Corporate Finance and Project Innovation. Amidst this, Theodora embarked on a solo voyage across Europe during the height of a global pandemic, a testament to her daring spirit and quest for growth.
But perhaps her most daring venture is TravelOut, a startup born from her vision to blend the magic of AI with the transformative power of travel, aiming to tackle loneliness and environmental challenges. Beyond her entrepreneurial spirit, she's a guiding force of hope as a social entrepreneurship coach, empowering young minds to make a positive impact. Through her daily rituals of meditation, journaling, and relentless self-improvement, Theodora embodies the philosophy that life is an endless journey of learning and gratitude.
To meet Theodora is to see the world through eyes filled with wonder, resilience, and the belief that kindness is the universal language that can unite us all.
2. WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF A TRUTH FOUNDER? Being a Truth Founder is about embodying the courage to bring your authentic self to the forefront of your endeavours. It's about forging a path not just for yourself but for those who will follow, grounding every decision in the truth of your vision and the impact you aim to create.
As a young female entrepreneur with a soul ignited by wanderlust, I see being a Truth Founder as a commitment to innovation, integrity, and inclusivity. It means being relentless in the pursuit of solutions that not only drive success but foster community, understanding, and connection.
My journey with travelout embodies this spirit—combining the magic of AI with the joy of travel to create meaningful, lasting connections.
A Truth Founder is someone who dares to dream, dares to do, and dares to be different, all while holding fast to the truth that we are all interconnected, and our actions can, indeed, make the world a better, kinder place.
In this ever-changing world, standing firm in our truths and values, embracing uncertainty as a catalyst for growth, and leading with empathy and kindness are the hallmarks of not just a Truth Founder, but a true leader.
3. WHAT EVENT OR EVENTS HAPPENED TO YOU THAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A FOUNDER?
The spark that ignited my path to becoming a founder wasn't a singular event, but a series of revelations and encounters that shaped my understanding of impact and purpose.
From a young age, I harbored a deep-seated desire to make a significant difference on this planet, to touch lives in a meaningful way. This desire was not just a fleeting wish but a calling that guided my decisions and experiences.
Throughout my academic journey and my internships, I was constantly searching for ways to contribute positively to the world. However, it was during my travels, witnessing firsthand the stark contrasts in living conditions, cultures, and opportunities, that I truly understood the magnitude of change I wanted to initiate. Seeing people in dire situations, living lives far removed from the opportunities I had, deepened my resolve. It became clear that while individual actions have power, the capacity to effect widespread change is exponentially greater when leading an organization or startup. In this realm, decisions can be swift, impact can be direct, and visions can be realized on a larger scale.
My travels not only expanded my horizons but also crystallized my understanding that to enact the change I envisioned, founding a startup was the most potent and direct avenue. This realization propelled me into the entrepreneurial world, where the dream of 'travelout' took root—an app embodying my commitment to making a tangible difference, connecting people across the globe, and addressing the loneliness and environmental challenges that are so prevalent in our society today.
4. WHAT IS YOUR MORNING ROUTINE & RITUAL? My morning begins with the dawn, embracing the silence and promise of a new day. This sacred time is reserved for a ritual that grounds me and sets the tone for the day ahead.
The ritual commences with ten minutes of meditation, a practice that centers my thoughts and cultivates a sense of peace and readiness for whatever the day may hold.
Following this, I engage in journaling, a practice where I pen down my positive affirmations and gratitude. This moment of reflection is not just about acknowledging what I am thankful for but also setting my intentions and focusing my energy on the positive aspects of life.
After journaling, I immerse myself in the world of ideas and inspiration, often through TED Talks or motivational videos. This is a time for fueling my mind, opening it up to new perspectives, and harnessing inspiration from the stories of others.
The ritual then transitions to more physical preparation—washing my face, a symbol of washing away any remnants of sleep or lethargy, preparing me to face the day with freshness and vigor. Before I step into the rush of the day, I dedicate thirty minutes to reading. This isn't just reading for knowledge but also for inspiration, connecting with thoughts and insights from around the world. Thus begins my day, grounded in mindfulness, fueled by inspiration, and ready for action.
This routine is more than just a series of tasks; it's a ritual that cultivates resilience, gratitude, and a mindset geared towards continuous growth and learning. It’s a foundation that supports me in my endeavors as a founder, educator, and changemaker, ensuring that every day is met with purpose and passion.
5. WHAT MANTRA,QUOTE,LINE OR PHRASE DO YOU SAY OFTEN TO INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE YOURSELF? The mantra that guides me through both the calm and stormy seas of life is simple yet profoundly impactful: 'Everything happens for a reason.' This line is my anchor in tumultuous times and my sail when the winds are favorable. It instills in me a sense of calm, allowing me to face situations with a poised heart and a focused mind. This belief nurtures my resilience, making me more mindful of the present and open to the lessons each moment offers. It's a source of happiness, a reminder to cherish the journey and trust the path I'm on, even when the destination isn't clear.
This mantra diminishes my worries, replacing them with a trust in the unfolding of life. It's a testament to the belief that every experience, every challenge, and every triumph is tailored for me, teaching me, shaping me, and leading me exactly where I'm meant to be. It's not just a phrase; it's a lens through which I view life, empowering me to navigate my journey with grace and gratitude.
6. WHY DO YOU THINK PEOPLE SHOULD CARE ABOUT YOUR VENTURE? People should care about TravelOut because at its core our venture is about more than just travel; it's about connection, understanding, and the transformative power of shared experiences.
In a world where loneliness is an ever-increasing issue, and environmental concerns are reaching critical levels, We offer a solution that bridges gaps, fosters friendships, and encourages sustainable travel practices.
Our app is built on the belief that travel should be accessible, meaningful, and a force for good. By leveraging AI, we're not just simplifying the process of finding a travel buddy; we're creating a global community of like-minded individuals who believe in travel as a tool for personal growth and social impact.
7. WHY DO YOU THINK YOU ARE THE ONE TO MAKE YOUR VENTURE A SUCCESS?
I believe I am the one to lead my venture to success because my life's journey has been a living blueprint for what my venture aims to achieve.
My unique blend of experiences navigating different cultures, languages, and challenges—has equipped me with a deep understanding of what it means to connect across boundaries.
My academic background in finance and entrepreneurship has provided me with the skills to navigate the complexities of building a startup, while my personal travels have instilled in me the empathy, resilience, and vision required to create an app that resonates on a global scale.
Moreover, my commitment to personal growth, mindfulness, and making a positive impact aligns perfectly with the ethos of my venture.
8. WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE FOR YOUR VENTURE? ( START WTIH: IMAGINE A WORLD... WHAT IF...WE WILL BE... )
Imagine a world where every journey enriches the soul, bridges cultures, and fosters understanding.
What if travel was not just about visiting a place, but about connecting deeply with it and its people, reducing loneliness and creating a global community united by shared experiences?
We will be the architects of this world. Success for us looks like an app that transforms travel from a mere activity into a powerful tool for personal growth and social impact. It's a world where our AI-driven app has made it effortless for individuals to find travel buddies who are not just companions, but catalysts for change, understanding, and lifelong friendships.
Success means creating sustainable travel ecosystems that benefit local communities, preserve natural beauty, and promote cultural exchange.
9. ANSWER THESE AS MANY TIMES AS YOU LIKE - I BELIEVE... I DON'T BELIEVE... I Believe in the power of travel to transform lives. Not just in the geographical sense, but in the journey within, discovering untapped potentials and new perspectives.
I Don't Believe that we are meant to stay in one place, physically or metaphorically. Growth comes from movement, from challenging ourselves, and from stepping beyond our comfort zones.
I Believe in the strength of connections. In a world where digital encounters often replace genuine connections, the human touch, the shared laughs, and the collective memories made during travels are irreplaceable treasures.
I Don't Believe in barriers neither in the maps drawn by human nor in the invisible walls we build around ourselves. Every barrier is a challenge waiting to be overcome, a lesson waiting to be learned.
I Believe in sustainability, in traveling responsibly, and in leaving places better than we found them. Our planet's beauty is a legacy, not just a backdrop for our adventures.
I Don't Believe in sacrificing authenticity for comfort. The true essence of travel, and life, is found in the authentic, the raw, and the real experiences that challenge us and make us grow.
I Believe in the resilience of the human spirit. Like a traveler navigating unknown paths, we have the ability to face challenges with grace and emerge stronger on the other side.
I Don't Believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to life or to travel. Diversity in experiences, in destinations, and in travel companions enriches our journey, making each story unique and each lesson valuable.
10. WHAT'S ONE DECISION YOU MADE AS A FOUNDER THAT COMPLETELY CHANGED THE COURSE OF YOUR JOURNEY? The decision that fundamentally altered the trajectory of my journey as a founder came at the nascent stages of my entrepreneurial path. After attending an entrepreneurship course, a spark was ignited within me a realisation that the path to making a substantial impact on the world was through creating and nurturing my own startup.
The pivotal moment wasn't marked by grandeur but by a quiet resolution to begin, to move beyond the paralysis of overthinking and to embrace the risks and uncertainties that lay ahead.
This decision to just start was both liberating and daunting. It required a leap of faith, a belief in the unseen and untested. This resolve to forge ahead, coupled with a willingness to face the unknown, set the foundation for everything that my venture has become today.
11. WHAT DO YOU REGARD AS YOUR GREATEST SUCCESS PERSONALLY & AS A FOUNDER? Personally, my greatest success lies in the journey of self-discovery and personal growth that has unfolded alongside my entrepreneurial path. Finding my true self, understanding the depth of my resilience, and learning to navigate the complexities of human emotions and relationships represent my most cherished achievements.
As a Founder, my greatest success is witnessing the birth and growth of a community that embodies the values and vision of my venture.
Building this community from the ground up, sharing my story with the world, and seeing the resonance it has found among so many individuals is profoundly rewarding.
12. WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY? What I cherish most about myself is my unwavering optimism and my ability to see potential where others see obstacles. This characteristic is not merely about maintaining a positive outlook but about deeply believing in the possibilities that lie ahead, even in the face of uncertainty. This optimism has been my compass, guiding me through challenges and enabling me to inspire those around me.
This trait is at the core of who I am and is reflected in everything I do, from the way I lead my startup to how I interact with every person I meet. It's the source of my resilience, my drive, and, ultimately, my happiness.
13. WHAT'S ONE THING YOU CAN IMPROVE ABOUT YOURSELF, AND WHY DO YOU THINK YOU HAVE NOT DONE IT BY NOW?
One area I continually strive to improve is the delicate balance between my ambition and my capacity to pause and reflect. it's what propels me forward but also what sometimes prevents me from appreciating the moment, from fully absorbing the lessons along the way.
Recognizing the need for balance is one thing; achieving it is another. I believe the reason I haven't fully mastered this yet is that it requires a fundamental shift in how I perceive success and productivity. It's about redefining what it means to be productive, to include not just achievements and output but also growth, rest, and reflection. This realisation is a work in progress, a journey towards understanding that true growth.
14. WHAT'S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED OR GIVEN, OR BOTH?
The best piece of advice I've ever received, and one that I now often give to others is encapsulated in the simple yet profound words: 'Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.' This advice was important, especially during the early days of my entrepreneurial journey, reminding me that the path to achieving our dreams doesn't begin with waiting for the perfect moment or having all the resources. It begins with the courage to take the first step, with whatever is at your disposal, and the resilience to keep moving forward, one step at a time. It's a mantra that champions progress over perfection and action over hesitation.
15. ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO 10 - 10 BEING THE BEST. HOW WELL DO YOU THINK YOU AND YOUR TRUTH STORY IS CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD BY YOUR COMMUNITY? ( WHY NOT 10? ) I would rate the understanding of me and my truth story by our community as an 8.
The reason it's not a perfect 10 is not a reflection of the community's lack of interest or engagement but rather an acknowledgment of the ongoing journey of communication and connection. While I strive to be as transparent and authentic as possible, there are always deeper layers to explore, new experiences to share, and more nuanced insights to uncover.
The '8' signifies that while we've come a long way in building a strong, understanding, and supportive community there's always room for deeper connections, more shared experiences, and greater mutual understanding. It's a journey I'm committed to, knowing that with each step, we get closer to that perfect '10,' where my truth story is not just understood but deeply resonated with by every member of our community.
16. WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY? The person I most admire is Malala Yousafzai, for her unwavering courage, resilience, and dedication to education and women's rights despite facing extreme adversity. Malala's story is not just one of survival but of immense strength and the power of a voice that refuses to be silenced. At a young age, she stood up for the right to education in the face of threats and violence, demonstrating an incredible depth of character and commitment to her beliefs. What I admire most about Malala is her ability to turn a personal tragedy into a global movement for change, inspiring millions around the world with her advocacy and passion.
Her grace, dignity, and relentless pursuit of justice inspire me to believe in the power of conviction and the impact of standing firm in one's beliefs, no matter the challenges.
17. DESCRIBE YOUR VENTURE - ELEVATOR PITCH STYLE?
Just Imagine if every journey you embarked on could also be a journey towards deeper connection, not just with the places you visit but with people who share your spirit of adventure and curiosity.
TravelOut is here to make that happen. Leveraging cutting-edge AI, we match travelers based on their personalities and travel preferences, transforming the way we experience new cultures, places, and friendships.
Our platform is more than just a travel app; it's a solution to the global loneliness crisis, encouraging real, meaningful interactions in an increasingly digital world. By prioritizing sustainable travel options, we ensure that our adventures also honor the planet.
18. WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT MISSION STATEMENT OR MESSAGE + MARKET FIT FOR YOUR VENTURE?
Our mission at TravelOut is to combat the rising tide of loneliness and disconnection in our society by harnessing the transformative power of travel.
We believe that by bringing people together through shared journeys, we can foster understanding, empathy, and genuine human connections in a world that's becoming increasingly isolated.
Our market fit targets the growing demographic of individuals seeking more meaningful experiences and connections in their travels, as well as those concerned with sustainable tourism.
TravelOut is where your journey to finding your tribe begins, creating memories that are not only about the places you see but the people you meet and the bonds you form.
19. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TO UNWIND AFTER A LONG WORK DAY?
After a long day's work, my favorite way to unwind is by hitting the gym late at night. This is my time to disconnect from the day's stresses and recenter. The physical exertion helps clear my mind, serving both my mental health and physical well-being.
Following my workout, I embrace the calming effect of a hot shower, accompanied by meditational music, allowing the soothing sounds to wash away any remaining tension.
This nightly routine is capped off with a few minutes of journaling, reflecting on the day, and expressing gratitude. This practice not only helps me unwind but also prepares me for restful sleep, ensuring I'm rejuvenated for the challenges of the next day.
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU TREATED YOURSELF TO AND WHAT DID YOU CELEBRATE? The last thing I treated myself to was a short snowboarding trip with my parents. This getaway was more than just a break from work; it was a celebration of life and the journey so far.
Amidst the relentless pursuit of my goals and the fast-paced nature of startup life, it's rare for me to find moments of rest. This weekend was an opportunity to slow down, cherish time with my aging parents, and reflect on my personal and professional growth.
BONUS QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SAY TO ALL THE PEOPLE THAT ARE SUPPORTING YOU ON YOUR AMBITIOUS JOURNEY?
To all the incredible individuals who have supported me on this ambitious journey, from the depths of my heart, thank you.
This journey is as much yours as it is mine. Together, we are creating something beautiful and meaningful, impacting lives and forging connections that transcend boundaries.
Let's continue to dream big, push limits, and create a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Here's to the road ahead and the endless possibilities that await us.
Become Our Next Truth Founder Today: - FREE To Submit & Be Published
Audience and Reach:
Reach: 15,000+ Subscribers & growing.
Co-Found Events: 250 - 300 People.
Audience: Entrepreneurs, Creators, Early Adopters.
Job Titles: Founder, CEO, and Business Owner.
Average e-mail open rate: 55%
We are in search of passionate Founders like You to share their truth stories in exchange for FREE Marketing in our newsletters and on our platform, To be introduced to our Co-Found Community of over 15,000+ Subscribers.
GREAT NEWS: You Don't Have To Do It Alone. - This Is Your invitation for us to answer your Truth Questions Together.
Request Your Invitation: HERE
Get The Latest Founder Interviews Direct To Your Inbox!
Join Over 15,000+ Subscribers To Our Newsletter, Where we send you Founder interviews & Truth Tips; For you to get insight, And learn the Truth about the person behind the venture from 20 Truth Questions Founders answer, For the chance to have their profiles and stories published on our site & newsletter.
MY CONTENT:
