Jo Franco is a National Geographic host, Netflix host, multilingual entrepreneur, and founder of JoClub, a global journaling community. She currently hosts "Big Little Italy" on National Geographic and is the author of "Fluentish," a language learning journal and planner. In this episode, we explore how journaling helped her navigate cultural transitions, unlock creative confidence, and build a life aligned with her true values.

In this podcast, Nick and Jo discuss topics such as:

From Silent Observer to National Geographic Host – How losing language as a child who started over in a new country at age 6 forced Jo to develop powerful observation skills that shaped her entire life trajectory.

The Language Superpower – Why learning 7 languages became a way to reconnect with her younger self and embrace discomfort as a growth tool.

Writing Your Way to Clarity – How 17 years of journaling helped Jo navigate from 7 internships to creating her own aligned career path.

The Rereading Revolution – Why reviewing your old journals with compassion is the key to identifying patterns and making better life decisions in the future.

From Negative to Positive Lens – How shifting journal focus from complaints to memories worth keeping actually changes how you live your life.

JoClub's Birth During COVID – The accidental creation of a global journaling movement that started with Instagram posts during lockdown.

Different Flavors of Journaling – Art journaling, photo journaling, music journaling, and finding the method that works best for you.

The List of Things to Remember – A simple starting technique that transforms how you observe and appreciate daily life.

Productivity Meets Introspection – Why journaling isn't separate from taking action—it's the foundation for aligned decisions.

Journaling with Friends – How sharing prompts with others creates profound connections and new perspectives.

If you've ever felt lost, struggled with finding your path, or wondered how to bridge the gap between who you are and who you want to become, this conversation offers practical wisdom and inspiration to start your journaling journey today.

Connect with Jo Franco:

🎬 National Geographic Show: Big Little Italy - Exploring Italian-American culture

📖 Book: Fluentish - Language Learning Journal & Planner

🌐 Website: JoClub.world - Join the global journaling community

📱 Instagram: @jo_franco - Daily inspiration & journaling tips

🎙️ Podcast: Not Your Average Jo - Stories of transformation & travel

📺 YouTube: Jo Franco Channel - Language learning & lifestyle content

Did you enjoy the podcast? If yes, please leave us a 60-second review on Apple Podcasts. It would mean a lot and can make a difference in getting more people to hear about it.

Watch the episodes on Youtube.

Follow Nick:

🐦 TWEET: https://twitter.com/NickMilo

📖 NEWSLETTER: https://www.linkingyourthinking.com/learn-more

📩 EMAIL: support@linkingyourthinking.com

The Old Mattress