May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Today my Talking Travel interview guest is doing his part with a twist on travel.
Most travelers prefer to limit their time in airports, but Justin Spencer isn’t like most people. He has spent the last 14 days living in an airport to raise awareness for mental health while working on his upcoming novel, Terminal Anxiety. It’s a cause near to his heart, having battled various mental health issues.
Photo courtesy of Justin Spencer
Spencer has always done things a bit differently but always with a concern for people and the world. Thirty years ago he formed Recycled Percussion, a musical act using buckets and recycled elements. That led to thousands of concerts worldwide. In 2016 he created the Chaos and Kindness brand to inspire people to be kind in this chaotic world.
Spencer chose Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport because it is the busiest in the world. His only self-imposed rule was he could not go outside. Besides finishing his book, Spencer does acts of kindness for strangers. He also ran a marathon within the airport (believed to be the first person ever to do so).
In our interview Spencer discussed his process and preparation for his stay. He also gave his views on travel and a few tips learned from his stay. Always with a world view, Spencer mentioned the good and bad from what he’s experienced.
Few things can be more chaotic than the busiest airport, but Spencer is surviving by living up to one of his mottos: “In a world full of chaos, always show your kindness.” There’s no better time to learn a bit from Spencer than Mental Health Awareness Month.
Talking Travel is an interview series on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.
— John Wroblewski, podcaster
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Apr 21, 2026Berlin’s Kino International: Heart of International Film Culture Reopens
As an architectural landmark of post-war modernism and an important premiere venue, Kino International has been a central site of national and international film culture for decades. Since 1992, it has been part of Berlin-based Yorck Cinema Group and has since been continuously operated with great commitment in keeping with its history.
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Daily
Apr 21, 2026MICE Offerings in Greater Palm Springs to Put on Your Radar
Greater Palm Springs, California, offers meeting and event planners an excellent variety of MICE offerings, including fabulous hotels, unique venues and group excursions.
Daily
Apr 21, 20265 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for 2026
Mother’s Day will be here before you know it! Treat your mother to a thoughtful gift. Whether she loves a day at the beach, a crisp cocktail, or even a chic new accessory for days and nights out on the town, we’ve got you covered:
Sponsored Content
Ireland: The Pinnacle of Golf by the Sea and Beyond
With the legacy of The Open at Royal Portrush still fresh, Ireland secured its place among the world’s most exceptional golf destinations. For those in search of championship courses, dramatic landscapes and renowned hospitality, the island offers an experience unlike any other.
Airlines
Apr 20, 2026Air New Zealand Announces Economy Skynest
Air New Zealand gives long-haul travelers a new economy-class experience with its Economy Skynest concept. Economy and premium economy passengers will be able to book the service, offered in four-hour sessions. To start, there will be two sessions available per flight. Initial service will operate on the airline’s New York (JFK)–Auckland (AKL) route.
Michelin Guide Expands to Cleveland, Ohio
Daily
Apr 20, 2026JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown Opens This Spring
April 2026
Apr 19, 2026April 2026
Apr 17, 2026Sun, Sea, Cliffs and Bridges Beckon on the Pacific Coast Highway
On one side, waves breathe in and out across wide stretches of sand or explode against jagged rocks, sending spray shooting into the air. On the other side, the scenery changes: Cliffs rise like walls, vineyards clip past in neat rows, pine trees line the road. Between these, cities give way to small communities with art galleries, local restaurants and shops selling beachwear.
Sponsored Content
Explora Journeys: A New Chapter In Luxury Ocean Travel
Sail Unique Explora Journeys continues to shape a new rhythm for luxury ocean travel, one guided by space, intention and a profound connection to the sea. Designed as a European luxury lifestyle experience, each journey feels less like a traditional cruise and more like time spent aboard a refined floating resort or superyacht whose home is the ocean.
Daily
Apr 17, 2026The Rise of Destination Hotels: 3 Luxurious Stays Worth a Visit
Booking a hotel typically comes after picking a destination. Some travelers treat it as a second thought or just a place to sleep. According to vacation platform Wander, however, more travelers are planning trips around a single property or hotel instead of the destination. So, we’ve rounded up three hotels around the world that serve as a destination in and of themselves.
ShareThis