This Is TASTE 713: Inside Roads & Kingdoms with Nathan Thornburgh
Jan 9, 2026
In this engaging conversation, Nathan Thornburgh, co-founder and CEO of Roads & Kingdoms and former Time magazine correspondent, shares his journey from music writer to journalist. He recounts the challenges and inspirations behind founding Roads & Kingdoms, including pivotal moments with Anthony Bourdain. Nathan discusses the shift to organized travel experiences guided by charismatic locals, and the ethical dilemmas of crafting trips while maintaining editorial integrity. His passion for food, travel, and storytelling shines through as he reflects on culinary memories and future ambitions.
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From Arrest In Cuba To Food-Driven Journalism
- Nathan Thornburgh started Roads & Kingdoms after being arrested in Cuba and then inspired by a food writer in Mexico City.
- That pivot led them to launch on Tumblr reporting daily from places like Myanmar mixing food and conflict reporting.
Anthony Bourdain's Early, Hands-On Support
- Anthony Bourdain became an early passionate supporter and investor in Roads & Kingdoms after an engaged Time magazine interview.
- Bourdain promised to back the project enthusiastically and later deeply influenced their work and network.
Big Talent Can Skew Business Discipline
- Bourdain's involvement brought large opportunities but also created unsustainable business habits.
- His death and the pandemic forced Roads & Kingdoms to rethink its model and strategy.
