Full Circle with Ruthie: Packing Memories, Planning Futures
- S1E182
- 26:46
- June 19th 2025
Episode 182 – Ruthie Takes Over: Growing Up Traveling with Rob & Tracy
Show Notes:
In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, Rob and Traci hand the mic to their oldest daughter, Ruthie, for a personal reflection on growing up in a traveling family. From being the only child on her parents' Disney honeymoon to becoming the big sister and now a newlywed traveler herself, Ruthie shares her unique perspective on how travel has shaped her outlook and her future plans.
What You’ll Hear:
- Ruthie’s earliest travel memories (hint: lots of princess dresses!)
- The shift in family dynamics when her younger brothers arrived
- A near-death lazy river experience that still gets laughs
- How childhood travel routines have influenced her adult travel style
- Her most cherished family trips—and why she’d relive them in a heartbeat
- Ruthie’s vision for traveling with her husband and future family
Whether you’re a parent, a kid reflecting on your travel roots, or a newlywed figuring out your own journey, this episode is filled with relatable laughs, heartfelt stories, and some solid travel wisdom.
Don't Miss:
- Tips on making travel meaningful even when finances are tight
- The two hotel items you should always sanitize
- Why planning doesn’t kill spontaneity—it empowers it
Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on Instagram @TheFamilyVacationer for behind-the-scenes fun. And don’t forget to check out our Substack for bonus content and travel tips.
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
Support Us
If you like the Family Vacationer content and would like to give us a little pat on the back. How about buying us a soda? We'd love that! Rob loves Diet Dr Pepper Strawberry and Blackberry and Traci loved Cherry Coke!