Yvette Shoemaker shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Yvette, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
The fact that I’ve started a business on my own without the financial help of taking out loans or borrowing against any collateral. I started my travel business with only the shirt on my back, my knowledge and love of travel.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Yvette, the heart behind Sweet Exits Travel. I’m a travel advisor who believes in crafting unforgettable getaways—from tropical escapes and dreamy cruises to immersive group adventures. My agency is all about personalized service, curated experiences, and making travel planning stress-free (and even fun!). I love connecting people to the places they’ve always dreamed about, and right now, I’m working on some amazing group trips for 2026 and 2027. Whether you’re ready to book or just dreaming, I’d love to help you plan your next sweet exit!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself was the one I had with my Nana. She was strength and grace wrapped in warmth—and she always saw something in me, even when I didn’t see it in myself. Nana taught me the value of hard work, kindness, and showing up for people. She had this way of making everyone feel special, and I carry that with me in how I treat others and how I run my business. Her influence is in everything I do, and I still hear her voice reminding me to stand tall, trust myself, and lead with heart.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back most in life is the fear of truly being seen. Not just the polished version, but the real, vulnerable me—flaws, doubts, and all. There’s always been this quiet voice asking, *“What if they don’t like what they see?”* It’s held me back from speaking up, from taking certain risks, from putting myself fully out there. But the older I get, the more I realize that being seen is where the magic happens. It’s where connection, confidence, and growth live—and I’m learning to lean into that space, even when it feels scary.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, I am the same at all times. What you see in public is who I truly am—genuine, grounded, and consistent. I don’t wear different masks for different spaces. Whether I’m with clients, friends, or just moving through life, I show up as myself—honest, caring, and real. That kind of authenticity matters to me, and I believe it’s part of what makes people feel comfortable and connected when they work with me or spend time around me.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m absolutely doing what I was born to do. Travel lights me up—helping people explore the world, create memories, and experience joy is something that comes naturally to me. This isn’t something I was told to do or fell into by chance. It’s something I genuinely love, and it feels like a calling. Every trip I plan, every connection I make—it all reminds me that I’m right where I’m meant to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sweetexitstravel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetexitstravelllc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetexitstravel
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sweetexitstravel
Image Credits
Jo Ellen Verna Portrait
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