Meet Pete Kotzbach | Podcast Host and Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Pete Kotzbach and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pete, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“Better is better”—this simple yet profound statement has echoed through many episodes of my business travel podcast, resonating deeply with both my guests and myself. Originating from discussions about continuous improvement and the relentless pursuit of excellence, this quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of progress in any aspect of life, especially in a context as challenging as business travel.
What stands out about this affirmation is its directness and universality. It suggests that any improvement, no matter how small, moves us forward and is preferable to stagnation. In the dynamic environments that my guests often navigate—whether they’re adapting to different cultures, managing time zones, or balancing work and personal life—this idea of striving for ‘better’ becomes a guiding principle. It encourages a focus on incremental gains, which are more achievable and less daunting than seeking perfection all at once.
For travelers and professionals, “better is better” underscores the philosophy that every step taken to improve, whether in efficiency, understanding, or performance, contributes to greater success and satisfaction. It champions the idea of valuing and recognizing even small “WINS” as victories, which is especially crucial in high-pressure situations where major leaps might be rare.
In essence, this quote shapes the mindset of my podcast and the stories shared, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and the celebration of small “WINS”. It’s a call to action that resonates not just in the realm of business travel, but in every aspect of life, urging us all to keep pushing boundaries, to keep evolving, and to appreciate every bit of progress along the way.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art, in the form of my business travel podcast named The Travel Wins, is a tapestry woven from the myriad experiences of those who navigate the complexities of travel as a fundamental aspect of their careers. What sets this podcast apart is its focus on the personal stories behind the professional journeys. It delves into the nuances of managing work-life balance on the road, the emotional and psychological challenges of frequent travel, and the inventive ways my guests maintain connections with loved ones from afar.
I am most proud of creating a platform that resonates with a diverse audience—whether they’re frequent travelers themselves or simply intrigued by the lifestyles of those who are. My podcast shines a light on untold stories of burgeoning artists, athletes on the way up and the way down as well start up entrepreneurs and nine figure business people, offering both inspiration and practical advice to its listeners.
Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. The podcasting journey began with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity about the world of business travel. The challenges were numerous, from technical hurdles in producing high-quality audio content to the logistical difficulties of coordinating with guests across various time zones. Overcoming these obstacles required persistence, a willingness to learn, and adaptability—a reflection of the very themes discussed in the podcast.
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that this podcast is more than just a collection of travel tales—it’s a source of connection and understanding. It stands as a testament to the human spirit’s adaptability and the profound impact of sharing our experiences. Through this platform, I aim to continue exploring the rich, complex narratives of business travelers, offering listeners both solace and inspiration in their own journeys.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week-long exploration of Los Angeles with a best friend, you’d want a blend of iconic sights, hidden gems, culinary delights, and relaxation. Here’s how I would craft the ultimate L.A. experience:
Day 1: Hollywood and Highland
Morning: Start with a classic Hollywood breakfast at Musso & Frank Grill.
Afternoon: Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see the TCL Chinese Theatre handprints, and hike up to the Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Evening: Dinner on The Sunset Strip, followed by a show at the Hollywood Bowl or a movie at the El Capitan Theatre.
Day 2: Downtown L.A.
Morning: Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe, then head to The Broad Museum and explore contemporary art.
Afternoon: Lunch at Grand Central Market. Spend the afternoon in the Arts District, checking out galleries and street murals.
Evening: Check to see if the Dodgers are playing and catch a game.
Day 3: Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Morning: Grab bikes or roller skates and cruise from Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach.
Afternoon: Hang out at Venice Beach Boardwalk, checkout Muscle Beach, explore the canals, and shop on Abbot Kinney.
Evening: Dinner at The Rose Venice.
Day 4: Beverly Hills and West Hollywood
Morning: Window shopping on Rodeo Drive, breakfast at The Beverly Hills Hotel.
Afternoon: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and/or Petersen Auto Museum.
Evening: Dinner in West Hollywood, then drinks and comedy at The Comedy Store.
Day 5: Day Trip to Malibu
Morning: Drive up the coast to Malibu. Breakfast at Malibu Farm on the pier.
Afternoon: Relax on Zuma Beach or hike in the Santa Monica Mountains.
Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner by the ocean in Malibu.
Day 6: Echo Park and Silver Lake
Morning: Breakfast.
Afternoon: Explore the indie shops, then relax with a paddle boat on Echo Park Lake.
Evening: Catch a live band at The Echo and dine at Night + Market Song for some local street food vendors.
Day 7: Leisure and Departure
Morning: Brunch at The Griddle Cafe in West Hollywood.
Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at The Grove or explore any missed spots.
Evening: A casual farewell dinner at Canter’s Deli, a classic L.A. experience.
Throughout the week, weave in coffee stops at local favorites and if time allows, catch an impromptu film or celebrity sighting, which are always on the cards in L.A.
This itinerary packs in a bit of everything that makes Los Angeles unique—from its beach culture and iconic landmarks to its vibrant food scene and arts. It’s sure to give a comprehensive taste of the city’s dynamic and diverse offerings.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In the unfolding story of my podcast, while I may be at the helm, there are numerous key figures whose support and contributions have been invaluable. Foremost, my wife and daughters deserve immense credit for their unwavering support and understanding, providing the foundation that enables me to pursue this endeavor. Their patience and encouragement are cornerstones of my ability to continue this journey.
My friends also play a critical role; their persistent encouragement to keep going has often been the push I need to overcome challenges and continue producing meaningful content. Their belief in the value of what I do fuels my motivation.
Musically, Steve Stevens deserves a special shout-out for composing the captivating theme song that sets the tone for each episode. His talent significantly enhances the podcast’s auditory experience, making every episode opening memorable.
In the realm of inspiration, figures like Gary Vaynerchuk, Lewis Howes, and Sean Evans have been instrumental. Their insights and successes in the digital content and podcasting world offer a blueprint and inspiration that guide my strategies and aspirations.
Lastly, a heartfelt thanks goes to each and every guest who has agreed to be on the show. Their willingness to share their time and stories is what truly brings the podcast to life. Every episode is a testament to their experiences and insights, and without their participation, the podcast wouldn’t have the rich diversity of perspectives that it does today.
Each of these individuals and groups has left an indelible mark on the podcast, contributing in unique and essential ways to its ongoing success.

Website: https://thetravelwins.com/

Instagram: the_travel_wins

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-kotzbach-99300516

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelwins