We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelani Winbush and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelani, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
Staying consistent and being intentional towards my goals has been key for me. I treat my content creation like a business. From dedicating time to create detailed travel itineraries and batching content to showing up online even when my motivation is low. I’ve developed the habit of documenting everything, whether I’m traveling, working out, or simply living my day-to-day life, because I know someone out there will be inspired by it. My goal is to document real life experiences and not fabricated ones of a real person that’s not “rich” through money but rich through experiences.

Another major habit is staying organized and proactive. I keep a running list of ideas, I map out my trips strategically so they align with my brand, and I’m always looking for ways to blend inspiration with information. So many people feel inspired to get out and travel due to my content especially when showing people how to travel luxuriously without breaking the bank.

Most of all, I stay grounded in my “why.” Travel is my therapy, and my mission is to help others find healing, joy, and adventure in the world too. That keeps me motivated even on the tough days.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career path is unique because I’ve always followed purpose over pressure. By day, I work in law enforcement, focusing on individuals and adults with disabilities and that ties directly into my nonprofit, which provides support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families. I have a background in psychology, special education, and educational leadership, so serving my community is deeply personal to me.

On the other side, I’m a lifestyle and travel influencer. I help people not only discover new destinations, but plan meaningful, bucket-list experiences rooted in what I call “calculated serenity” and “affordable luxury.” I do this on the side, but it’s a major part of who I am. I also previously ran a women’s beauty brand, so entrepreneurship has always been in my blood.

What sets me apart is the heart behind what I do whether it’s through content, travel planning, or community work, I lead with purpose. I understand how healing travel can be, because I’ve lived it. I’ve learned that success isn’t always linear balancing all these roles hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me to give myself grace, trust the process, and never underestimate the power of reinvention.

What I want the world to know is this: your story can have multiple chapters. You can serve your community, build your brand, and inspire others all at once and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s journey. I’m proof of that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect mix of relaxation, fun, and Miami vibes. We’d start with a spa day at Lapis Spa, my favorite in Miami, because it gives you full access to the beach, pool, hotel amenities, and great food all in one. We’d have dinner at Mastro’s in Fort Lauderdale, where the service and waterfront views never disappoint. A yacht day on the water is a must it’s one of the best ways to take in the city. I’d also plan a visit to Wynwood for art, food, and photo ops, plus a stop at a speakeasy for a fun night out. We’d hit Komodo or another chic Brickell spot for dinner, and grab late-night bites at Moshi Moshi. For something more interactive, I’d throw in a round at Puttshack or a perfume-making experience, along with something active like a tennis match or catching a sporting event. If she wants we can hit up a club vibe one of the nights. To wrap it up, we’d soak up some sun at the beach or a rooftop pool because no Miami trip is complete without that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d definitely dedicate my shoutout to my parents. They exposed me to traveling and different cultures at a young age, and that foundation shaped everything. Being immersed in new environments early on gave me a deep appreciation for diversity, adventure, and stepping outside of my comfort zone which is exactly what I try to reflect in my content now.

I also have to shout out the travel creators and entrepreneurs I’ve followed over the years even from a distance, their consistency and transparency inspired me to keep pushing and keep showing up. Seeing other women, especially Black women, build powerful brands in this space reminded me that it’s possible.

Instagram: Knowwnayy

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kelanisworld?si=19S4Ey0SyGptkzTv

Other: tik tok https://www.tiktok.com/@kelanisworldd?_t=ZT-8vftL5K6YhC&_r=1

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.