What happens when life takes an unexpected detour?

In this episode of Detours, Erik James sits down with Hazel Aguisanda, founder of Happy Tails Philippines, to talk about her remarkable journey from corporate trainer to animal welfare advocate.

Hazel shares the triumphs and heartbreaks of rescuing hundreds of stray dogs and cats, the mission behind Happy Tails, and why compassion, community, and sustainability are key to creating lasting change.

From life-changing rescues to lessons on resilience, purpose, and embracing the unexpected, this conversation is a reminder that our greatest detours often lead us exactly where we're meant to be.

Whether you're an animal lover, a changemaker, or simply searching for inspiration, this episode will leave you believing that every act of kindness can change a life - one paw at a time.

Detours: Rearview Mirror | Episode 1

Some conversations continue long after the cameras stop rolling.

In the very first episode of Detours: Rearview Mirror, Erik James revisits Episode 1 with Nik to unpack the stories that never made it into the podcast due to technical glitches and audio issues.

From the commercialization of some of the Philippines' most iconic destinations and the importance of responsible travel, to why a simple bus ride can mean something completely different to every traveler, this episode explores the conversations that deserved a little more road time.

Erik also reflects on the life-changing detours that led both him and Nik to embrace solo travel, sharing the spontaneous decision that took him to Boracay and unknowingly set him on the path toward a life of travel, storytelling, and ultimately, Detours.

Because sometimes, the biggest lessons aren't found in the destination, they're found in the roads we almost didn't take.

Reflect. Unpack. Find the meaning behind the detour.

The best stories happen off the itinerary. This week, we sit down with travel blogger Nik to unpack the unexpected detours, hidden challenges, and surprising rewards of living life as a full-time travel nomad.