In this episode, I’m joined by Skyler Mason—founder of SKYIN and the heart behind Kenya’s most transformative safari experiences—for a powerful conversation on purpose, privilege, and the kind of travel that changes you forever.

But don’t expect just another guide to spotting lions or sipping sundowners.

From living with Maasai tribes to building sustainable tourism that funds water wells and jobs, Skyler shares how one soul-stirring trip at 13 years old set him on a lifelong path of connection, culture, and impact.

We explore what it really means to travel like a local, why authentic human connection is the true luxury, and how one woman’s solo trip to Kenya turned into a life-altering homecoming.

✨ Inside This Episode:

• Why Skyler walked away from a successful family business in the U.S.

• The surprising way he first traveled to Kenya as a teenager

• How safari can be a spiritual journey—not just a sightseeing one

• What travelers miss when they only seek out Instagram-worthy moments 

• The difference between authentic and performative cultural tourism

• How SKYIN is creating jobs and clean water access in remote communities

• The emotional stories of travelers who came back changed—for good

• What to look for when choosing a safari provider (and what to avoid)

🌍 Whether Kenya is already on your bucket list—or your heart just craves more purpose and connection in your next journey—this episode will remind you that the real magic of travel isn’t where you go. It’s how deeply you show up when you get there.

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE HERE!

In this episode:

• 00:00 Introduction 

• 02:25 Skyler's Early Connection to Africa

• 05:48 Transformative First Visit to Kenya

• 07:12 Building a Career Around Passion

• 09:31 Creating Authentic Kenyan Experiences

• 16:47 Designing the Ultimate Kenyan Adventure

• 25:33 Balancing Luxury and Authenticity

• 31:10 Sustainability and Community Impact

• 35:15 The Burden of Fetching Water

• 36:01 Mission to Create Water Wells in Kenya

• 36:46 The Importance of Clean Water

• 39:33 Choosing the Right Safari Operator

• 45:57 Tips for First-Time Safari Travelers

• 50:56 Transformative Travel Stories

• 01:00:04 Closing Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions

Resources & Links:

• Sign Up for our Newsletter & Get a Free Guided Meditation here

• Ready for your next adventure? Fill out our Trip Request Form and we will reach out to set up a Free Consultation Call

• Get The Mindful Traveler EBook FOR FREE here.

Connect with SKYIN

• Follow SKYIN on Facebook

• Follow SKYIN on Instagram

• Follow SKYIN on LinkedIn

• Subscribe to SKYIN on YouTube

• Check out the SKYIN Website

Connect with Kelly:

• Follow the Podcast on Instagram

• Follow Kelly Tolliday on Instagram

• Transform With Travel Website

Travel With Kelly! Check out RNR’s Group Retreats & Tours here. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Transform With Travel. Happy travels in 2025!✈️

Leave a Review: Loving the show? Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your favorite travel buddy (or stressed-out parent friend 💛). It helps more families find joy and transformation through travel.