What if embarking on a pilgrimage could transform your entire life? On this episode of Camino Cafe, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary Johnnie Walker, a revered figure in the Camino de Santiago community. Johnnie shares his profound connection to the Camino, recounting countless pilgrimages and extensive volunteer work that led him to settle in Santiago de Compostela. Discover how the tradition of Sunday lunches fills his life with joy, laughter, and captivating stories from friends old and new.

We also explore Johnnie's life in Santiago and Malaga, balancing relaxation with his ongoing work, like penning guidebooks and leading groups such as the organization Age in Spain and the largest Camino Facebook group, Camino de Santiago All Routes, with a half million members and counting. Learn about his experiences walking the Camino Portuguese by the coast and the Camino Inglés, and his pivotal role in creating the first guidebook for the latter. Johnnie discusses the challenges of preserving the Camino’s heritage and ensuring accessibility, yet his unwavering love for the Camino and its vibrant community radiates through every word.

In an emotionally charged segment, we delve into the transformative power of the Camino through heartfelt stories and film projects inspired by the pilgrimage. Johnnie shares a poignant personal story about overcoming childhood trauma, emphasizing the importance of self-forgiveness and communal healing. John Rafferty, who transitioned from a political career to a fulfilling life in Spain, recounts his journey of grace, forgiveness, and ultimate transformation into Johnnie Walker. From life lessons learned on the Camino to the impact of personal stories, this episode celebrates the enduring spirit of the pilgrimage, its transformative power, and the profound connections it fosters.

Join the Camino de Santiago All Routes Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hiXBvrqqqPkzpuB5/

Johnnie Walker's Books:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Johnnie-Walker/author/B06XT5CRHV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1725790010&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Age in Spain:
https://www.ageinspain.org/

Academia Xacobea:
http://academiaxacobea.gal/

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Join us at the Camino Cafe as the talented LA-based singer-songwriter Harold Payne takes us on his transformative journey along the Camino Portuguese. Harold opens up about the deeply personal motivations behind his walk, from his academic background in Spanish to the profound need for healing following his wife's passing. Along the way, he shares the exhilaration of completing the journey and the empowering sense of accomplishment it brings, interwoven with stories from his impressive music career, including collaborations with legends like Bobby Womack, Rod Stewart, and Snoop Dogg.

Ever gotten a black eye from a guidebook? Harold has, and he's here to tell the tale. We explore the balance between the physical challenges of the Camino, like heel pain and blisters, and the mystical, meaningful encounters that can happen on such a journey. Drawing parallels to his experience on an international peace walk in India, Harold reminisces about the spontaneous connections made along the way. To top it off, he treats us to a heartfelt performance of his original song "One Step," which captures the essence of taking small, meaningful actions.

Finally, we reflect on the lasting impact of the Camino de Santiago on Harold's life. Harold chats about his own love for travel and adventure, sharing insights on the importance of spontaneity and the value of accommodations that balance comfort and proximity to the action. With memorable advice for future travelers and an impromptu song aptly titled "The Camino Saved Me," Harold's reflections offer a heartfelt guide for anyone looking to embark on their own Camino journey.

Connect with Harold:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/haroldpaynemusic909
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HaroldPayneMusic

All songs are original songs written and performed by Harold Payne

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Global Camino
https://www.waytostjames.com.au/
https://www.facebook.com/waytostjamescygnet/

Tasmanian Camino and Global Camion Website:
https://www.waytostjames.com.au/

Camino Cafe Podcast Interview with Ella, Denise, and Denis
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/119-the-neal-family-walking-the-camino-a/id1562037974?i=1000666935472

Follow the Neal Family on IG for their upcoming Camino walk starting September 1st
https://www.instagram.com/neals4fibro/

Video about their upcoming walk:
https://youtu.be/CtVm6sh3QVo?si=AjbyE3Yb4_6Pc0BB

Neal Family's Blog
https://thewaytoacure.wordpress.com/

To Support Fibro Fighters in finding a cure:
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/fibrofighters-foundation-inc/neals4fibro?ref=1c062159-e55f-4a1c-87cd-e570d2bfa17a


Cruisin’ with the Colemans
https://www.youtube.com/@CruisinwiththeColemans


Living to Be with Reino Gevers - Interview with Johnnie Walker and Leigh Brennan
Video - https://youtu.be/zt6c4fq-gfQ?si=ENFvACo6aW5QRA5o
Audio - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-future-of-the-camino-overrated-and-overcrowded/id1555111254?i=1000666226176

Hotel Booking Service with PIlgrim Kiley Brennan
kiley.brennan@fora.travel.com

https://www.foratravel.com

Thanks to our CNU Team this week, especially Patricia Rose for recording our show and Sven Kaven for special photography.

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Global Camino

Registration for Global Camino - FREE
https://facebook.com/events/s/way-to-st-james-global-camino-/1232047184820117/

Global and Tassie Camino Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/waytostjamescygnet/

Tasmanian Camino and Global Camion Website:
https://www.waytostjames.com.au/


What if you could walk the Camino from the comfort of your home? Join us on the Camino Cafe podcast as we welcome Leanne Prichard, the visionary behind the Tassie and Global Caminos. Leanne takes us through the genesis of the virtual Camino, born out of the necessity during the COVID pandemic, and how it has since evolved into a beacon of hope and connection for pilgrims worldwide. She shares her own transformative journey on the Camino Frances in 2018 and her heartfelt mission to give back to the global Camino community through these innovative events.

Explore the unique blend of local and global experiences that the Tasmanian Camino offers. With stories of pilgrims from diverse climates like Canada and Central Australia, the event showcases remarkable inclusivity. Hear about the extensive support provided to local participants, from accommodation and food to the transportation of camping gear. We also share touching anecdotes of emotional connections formed during the walks, including a 95-year-old participant who embodies the spirit of the Camino. The episode underscores the importance of fostering a sense of global community, peace, and solidarity through the shared experience of walking.

Finally, dive into the logistics and enriching experiences of the Tasmanian Camino, enhanced by live-streamed events that connect global participants. Enjoy musical performances, communal singing, and the symbolic carrying of an icon of St. James. Reflect on the transformative nature of the Camino, with personal stories of career changes and newfound appreciation for life's journey. This episode is a tribute to savoring each moment and embracing the full pilgrimage experience, inspiring gratitude and mindfulness in all who listen. Don't miss this chance to reconnect with the Camino spirit and be part of a global community of walkers.

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Follow the Neal Family on IG for their upcoming Camino walk starting September 1st
https://www.instagram.com/neals4fibro/

Video about their upcoming walk:
https://youtu.be/CtVm6sh3QVo?si=AjbyE3Yb4_6Pc0BB

Neal Family's Blog
https://thewaytoacure.wordpress.com/

To Support Fibro Fighters in finding a cure:
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/fibrofighters-foundation-inc/neals4fibro?ref=1c062159-e55f-4a1c-87cd-e570d2bfa17a


What happens when a family’s pilgrimage transforms into a profound journey of healing and resilience following a life-altering diagnosis? Join us as we meet the Neal family: daughter Ella, mom Denise, and dad Dennis.

Based in Colorado, the Neal family shares their compelling story of walking the Camino de Santiago amidst Ella's courageous battle with fibrolamellar cancer. Discover how Denise initially embarked on this pilgrimage to navigate her life as an empty nester. Soon after, they walked as a couple, strengthening their bond and resolve.

Listen to their profound experiences as they later walked as a family following Ella's diagnosis. Faith and community played pivotal roles in their spiritual growth as they walked together. They found solace, faith, and a renewed sense of purpose, which became crucial in supporting Ella through her medical journey. From carrying stones to honor other cancer fighters to organizing fundraisers for fibrolamellar cancer research, their journey is marked by deep connections and heartfelt traditions. Ella’s poignant stories of finding strength in the simplicity of each day and the joy of spending cherished moments with family are sure to touch your heart.

Our episode has uplifting moments that showcase the joy and camaraderie within this family and found along the Camino trail. From the heartwarming tale of this mother-daughter duo who crochet hats for hospital patients to the humorous adventures during their walks, the Neal family's story is one of hope, resilience, and community. Tune in to learn how you can support their ongoing efforts and follow their inspiring journey on social media as they prepare for their next walk on the Camino Portuguese.

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Special episode this week with Guest Host, Reino Gevers, from the Living To Be Podcast. Walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in northwestern Spain has surged in popularity, drawing nearly half a million pilgrims this year alone. However, as its fame grows, so do concerns about whether the Camino is becoming a victim of its own success. Has it now become overrated and overcrowded?

In this episode, we talk to Camino veterans Leigh Brennan and Johnny Walker, two expats living in Santiago de Compostela, on the latest Camino developments. Leigh hosts the popular Camino Cafe podcast. Johnny has written several Camino guidebooks and hosts the Camino All Routes Facebook site which has more than 438,000 followers."
#caminodecompostela #selfimprovement #santiagodecompostela #walking #pilgrimage #pilgrim

Highlights of this episode:
-Preparing and walking the Camino for the first time
- Walking the alternative routes that few people know about
- Why the Camino remains a life-changing experience

Video Version of this Interview with Reino, John, and Leigh:

https://youtu.be/zt6c4fq-gfQ?si=1PorQPs3QsAlKk5z

Interview at the Camino Cafe Podcast with Reino Gevers - Deep Walking for Body, Mind, and Soul - Episode 13:

https://youtu.be/ZH0-GUHPpek?si=imF-3UwrRiSN2dux - YouTube

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/13-reino-gevers-deep-walking-for-body-mind-and-soul/id1562037974?i=1000524367838 - Audio Version

Connect with Reino
https://linktr.ee/redfishsword

Reino’s YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@Redfishsword

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

Ever wondered how a simple walk could transform your life? This episode of Camino Cafe features the incredible journey of Celeste Mancinelli, a retired speech and language pathologist whose trek on the Camino Portuguese led her to create the captivating one-woman show, Crying on the Camino. Celeste takes us through her motivations for embarking on the journey at this stage of her life, the surprising trials she faced with her trekking companions, Dr. Lynn and Lauri, and the deep connections that formed along the way. Through her candid reflections and humor, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the self-discoveries that the Camino pilgrimage can bring.

Discover the unexpected path that turned Celeste’s Camino experience into a successful theatrical performance. Initially capturing her trek through personal recordings and Facebook updates, the isolation of the pandemic and encouragement from friends led her to develop and perform her material in intimate settings. From living room gatherings to sold-out theaters, Celeste’s minimalist act, featuring only her and her Camino gear, has captivated audiences worldwide. Her self-deprecating humor and raw storytelling have brought the universal appeal of her pilgrimage to stages in Madrid, Santiago, and Portland, just to name a few, making the story resonate with people across the globe.

This episode also touches on the deep connections Celeste has formed with her audience and the children she once cared for. Hear about the emotional reunions and the gratitude expressed by those whose lives she has touched, whether through her career or her performances. Celeste’s honesty about aging, personal reflection, and the physical and spiritual challenges of the Camino resonate deeply with audience members, pilgrims, and non-pilgrims. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, laughter, and the joy of shared experiences.

For upcoming dates and more information:
https://crycamino.com/

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR

The Way, My Way - Movie Trailer

https://thewaymywaymovie.com/

Santiago de Compostela Book Club - Join to attend the Monthly Meeting with Steve Walther, author of Sacred Blisters

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092678497699

Steve Walther, Sacred Blisters

https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Blisters-Steve-Walther/dp/B0BSKBWTP4

Interviews at The Camino Cafe Podcast

YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@TheCaminoCafePodcast

Past Interviews with Bill Bennett and Jennifer Cluff

Bill and Jennifer In Santiago

Video version:

https://youtu.be/cCxpVaZ8Krs?si=RRFZKKoqE1sA7aJG

Audio Version:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-camino-cafe/id1562037974?i=1000595050084

Bill Bennett & Jennifer Cluff - Trusting your Intuition and Releasing Fear

https://youtu.be/4L8IEgUXrjw?si=GaG4daltq7_Rr9QI

Audio version:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-camino-cafe/id1562037974?i=1000528796972

Camino Maltes

https://caminomaltes.mt/

PSA - Services in Santiago for English Speaking Pilgrims

The Pilgrim Office

Rúa Carretas, nº33
15705 Santiago de Compostela
A Coruña – ESPAÑA

Tel.: +34 981 568 846

Location Google Maps :

https://maps.app.goo.gl/G6W28N2HGgAaDnKf7

oficinadelperegrino@catedraldesantiago.es

Camino Companions

Pilgrim Office

Rua Carretas, 33

Room 6, on the first floor

Location Google Maps:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/G6W28N2HGgAaDnKf7

Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/CaminoCompanions

Website:

https://www.fcjsisters.org/who-we-are/where-we-are/eu

Connect with Leigh:

Camino News Update
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9jRyUVnjI4WJMbM7rEbXW9ycGuQwm8Ae&si=vKPxgrYLQfyC_m4H

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VN9ze3z61n6tRLtDXWuQw

Follow us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thecaminocafepodcast/

The Camino Cafe's intro and outro song with thanks to fellow Pilgrim, Jackson Maloney. Original Song - "Finnis Terre" - written and performed by Jackson Maloney - Singer, Musician, and Songwriter. Connect with Jackson: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fdQsSqq9pDSwKcWlnBHKR