
Negotiate Anything How Nicole Phillip Built a Brand with Truth, Research & Unshakeable Confidence
4 snips
Nov 24, 2025 Nicole Phillip, a journalist-turned-travel creator, candidly discusses her journey from ABC News and The New York Times to building her own platform. She shares her surprising experiences of racism during a study abroad in Italy and the overwhelming support from others who faced similar issues. Nicole emphasizes the importance of research in her travel reviews and how she structures content like journalism. Through this, she aims to empower travelers of color with authentic insights and advice, while navigating the challenges of creator life.
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Research Turns Opinion Into Authority
- Nicole insists every opinion she posts is backed by research and reputable sources to withstand criticism.
- That discipline turns subjective travel commentary into defensible, educated public conversations.
Study Abroad Shock In Italy
- Nicole recounted her 2013 study-abroad in Italy where she faced harassment, being called “disgusting” and ignored despite speaking Italian.
- Her New York Times essay later sparked hundreds of thousands of responses from others with similar experiences, proving she wasn't alone.
Essay Sparked A Broader Conversation
- After her NYT essay went viral, Nicole received messages from Asian, Black, and other travelers confirming similar racist incidents in Italy.
- Study-abroad programs and Florence officials even reached out, turning a personal essay into curriculum changes and public conversation.


