#166: Brazil Native Brings The Fun to Travel, Theater, Christianity and CrossFit

Run The Race

Valeria Marto is from Brazil but has lived longer in America now. Since she's been in Georgia, she's bought or started two successful businesses - helping schoolkids communicate through thewater and now giving people opportunities to travel the world. She's passinate about both those, plus her relationship with Jesus, her family, and going to CrossFit gym regularly. We talk about all that on this new episode of "Run The Race." (3:00) Valeria had humble beginnings in Sao Paulo, Brazil - barely traveling from where she lived. Now, she and her husband run Planet Fun Travel. She talks about how traveling to different places in the USA and overseas can change you for the better...how it can be affordable...her favorite spot (hint, it's in Italy)...and their upcoming dream trip to Israel. (12:25) Growing up Catholic, she later was scared of death and questioning God, but talks to me about a transforming moment of faith at an evangelical church 20+ years ago. Valeria now has a passion to reach the unchurched, loving and listening to others, knowing the Holy Spirit does the real job. She talks about what a real Christian does, and not just on Sundays. (21:02) Not only does her family share a passion for faith, but also for being healthy through working out. A breast cancer diagnosis was a wakeup call for this mom of 2, changing her mindset so that exercise would be like doctor appointments she did not need to miss. Intimidated by CrossFit? She says if little her can do it, anyone can! Valeria describes what she does there in competing against herself and loving the community of fellow CrossFit participants. (30:05) For more than 16 years, she has owned and operated DramaKids International of Greater Columbus GA, with 600 students going through her programs. She talks about kids, from 5 years old to high schoolers, learning tools of confidence and communication. (36:20) We close the chat talking about being able to go for your dreams in America, where it's not possible in many other countries. This entrepreneur tells the story of how she started with DramaKids, thanks to a woman prophesying Jeremiah 33:3 over her, then God spoke clearly to her. After our conversation, the pod ends in prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast, which I hope you'll subscribe to! Share it with your friends. Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and listen to any previous episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.