Meet Caitlin Pfitzinger, a purpose-driven travel advisor with a heart for conservation and connection. A mother of three, a former clinical therapist specializing in anxiety disorders, and now a Virtuoso Certified Travel Advisor, Caitlin channels her background in mental health, love of nature, and personal experiences into curating transformational, conservation-focused travel experiences. Inspired by the untapped dreams of her late mother and her own lifelong passion for wildlife, she founded her travel business, Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel. Grounded yet adventurous, polished yet approachable — Caitlin sees style as a reflection of the places she’s been, and legacy as something built one meaningful experience at a time.
What is your favorite quote or life motto?
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”
It’s easy to live in the familiar — to follow routine, avoid risk, and cling to what feels safe. But the moments that shape us, the ones we carry forever, rarely happen inside the boundaries of comfort. They live out there — in the quiet courage it takes to say yes to the unknown.
At the edge of your comfort zone, life doesn't just begin — it awakens. It reminds you that you're capable of more than you imagined. It’s in the first breath you take standing in a place you’ve never been. In the unexpected conversation that shifts your perspective. In the way your heart beats faster not out of fear, but because something inside you knows you’re growing.
Stepping beyond the familiar isn’t always easy — but that’s where the magic is. That’s where wonder lives. Where clarity unfolds. Where memories are made, not because everything went as planned, but because you showed up with openness, courage, and curiosity. When we choose to move toward what challenges us — to explore new places, meet new people, experience the unfamiliar — we don’t just discover the world. We discover parts of ourselves we didn’t even know were waiting.
And that’s where life truly begins.
Tell us a bit about you.
First and foremost, I am a mom of three wonderful kids ages 10 and under, I’ve been married for 16 years to a kind, loving, supportive husband who is the absolute best father to our children and who also happens to be a vascular surgeon on the side. I grew up wanting to be a marine biologist, was a huge tomboy, loved being out in nature, learning about any and all animals, and playing sports.
I have an undergraduate degree in health, sport and exercise science with a concentration on sports management, and a masters degree in counseling psychology with a focus on sport psychology from The University of Kansas. I worked in college athletics throughout my entire undergraduate and graduate career, from football to sports medicine, but shifted into clinical psychology after graduation. I practiced in a number of different clinical settings, until ultimately finding my way specializing in treating severe anxiety disorders. One of the highlights of my counseling career was in Chicago where I co-led a group intensive outpatient program for the treatment of anxiety disorders utilizing a type of therapy model called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (or ACT for short). It focused on leaning into discomfort in service of our values and I saw change happen like nothing I’ve ever seen before when patients embraced this mindset. And clearly this has stayed with me through my own life experiences.
Once we moved back to Kansas City and started a family I gradually transitioned away from therapy and focused on raising our children while my husband was in General Surgery Residency at KU and Vascular Surgery Fellowship at UNC. Much to my sheer joy we found ourselves moving to my dream destination of Naples, Florida in the summer of 2020 where I vowed to save every sea turtle. And while that hasn’t happened quite yet, it certainly is on my list of goals for the upcoming years.
You’re a Virtuoso Certified Travel Advisor specializing in family, wellness and sustainable luxury travel. How did you get started? What’s the short and sweet story of your beginnings?
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. I felt most at home in nature, endlessly curious about the animal world and deeply connected to it. That sense of awe and empathy shaped how I saw the world and how I wanted to move through it. When I was 16, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 43 years old. She had wanted to travel the world — to see wild, beautiful places and experience life beyond the everyday. But after a nine-year battle with cancer, she passed away before she ever truly got the chance to explore. That loss left an imprint on how I view time, memory, and the urgency of living fully — not someday, but now.
Years later, following this same sentiment after covid, on a whim one afternoon when my two year old was napping, I leaned into my now and opened an LLC and officially entered the travel industry (which I knew nothing about at the time), with a drive for helping families create meaningful memories — starting with luxury trips to Walt Disney World, where joy and togetherness are woven into every nuanced detail. It was fulfilling work to help families navigate the complexities of a Disney vacation, but I felt the call of my connection to nature again — of open landscapes, animals in their natural rhythm, and the kind of travel that stirs the soul.
Everything changed when a trusted safari supplier, who saw that spark in me, invited me to Botswana for a trade show. That trip opened a door I didn’t even know I’d been searching for. The soul of the land, the intimacy of safari life, the profound connection to both nature and purpose — it all came rushing back. I wasn’t just witnessing something extraordinary — I was remembering who I’ve always been. And now it truly feels as if that was the plan for me all along.
Since then, one trip has turned into many, and now I’m preparing for my fifth journey to Africa in just 18 months. As a result, I specialize in designing high-touch, conservation-focused safaris that honor the places that move us, the creatures we share them with, and the memories that shape who we are. I truly believe that it’s not just about travel. It’s about legacy, healing, wonder, and the wild parts of ourselves that are just waiting to be explored, or in my case, remembered.
What do you love most about what you do?
I love introducing people to a world they didn’t know they couldn’t live without.
Your photos taken on your safari trips are to die for. What’s so magical about the safari experience?
Everything. The magic is everywhere - It’s the people, the culture, the vastness of the land, the animals, the humility by the sheer beauty of the environment. It gets into your heart and soul in ways that no words can ever do justice. It’s not only my account of this, but the same is heard in countless stories from lodge owners, guides, and fellow travelers alike - that something happens to visitors when they step off that plane in the middle of the bush - they don’t get back on that plane as the same human being. The bush teaches you how to be mindful, patient, grounded, connected, and present with yourself, others, and the awe inspiring world around you.
You’ve accomplished so much already, but to date, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Introducing my children to cultures different from our own, educating them on new places and introducing them to the most wonderful human beings that I’ve met through the travel industry. I hope that this forever instills a sense of wonder and curiosity in them, encourages them to get out and explore, and have the courage to live their own dreams as they grow.
What are some future goals that you have, both personally and professionally?
A huge personal goal is to revisit getting my PADI scuba certification and I’d love to dive back into my passion for wildlife/landscape photography. One day it would be a tremendous honor to showcase my photographs in a gallery here in Naples.
Professionally I've found myself deeply committed to continuing to build a company grounded in purpose — one that fosters impactful collaborations with safari partners who are not only redefining meaningful travel but are actively preserving and protecting some of the most vulnerable ecosystems on the planet. I’m equally passionate about being an advocate for conserving the beautiful paradise I call home, and I hope to bridge my passion for conservation efforts in Africa with conservation-minded initiatives here in Southwest Florida through meaningful collaborations and partnerships.
What is a fact that most would not know about you?
I just returned from gorilla trekking in Rwanda at the invitation of Singita and my host agency, Embark Beyond’s safaris division, Embark Safaris, — though I have talked about this trip nonstop, so most people close to me definitely know of this wonderful adventure I had the absolute honor of being invited to participate in.
What are your top 3 fave destinations you’ve visited and what’s on your bucket list?
Botswana
Kenya
South Africa
Bucket List:
Namibia, Zimbabwe and returning to Rwanda for a longer stay
Now let’s talk fashion! How would you describe your personal style?
Adaptable. I feel equally at home wearing safari gear as I do in formal wear, while balancing everything in between that seems to be part of life in Naples, Florida. But I would say the usual South Florida casual wear is what you’ll typically find me in and I love being able to wear bright, happy colors with floral and I must say, occasional ocean themed, patterns as my standard easy to wear daily attire. Yes, lots of Lily Pulitzer.
What’s your go-to outfit when you’re pressed for time?
Living in Naples, I gravitate toward outfits that are bright, breezy, and effortless — especially when I’m short on time. My go-to is usually a colorful breezy resort wear dress or a bold statement dress in a lightweight fabric that keeps me cool but still looks polished. I love bright colors— think coral, turquoise, or a tropical floral — paired with simple gold jewelry, fun sandals, and big sunglasses. And as a proud Wallaroo Hat ambassador, more often than not I finish the look with one of their chic, sun-protective hats. Whether I’m headed to a client lunch, the beach, or cocktails on Fifth, it’s easy, fun, and totally Southwest Florida.
Any packing tips you can share with us?
Honestly? I’m an overpacker who is very intentionally working on trying my best to not be an overpacker. I’ve always wanted to be the person who packs light — and I’m getting better with each trip (or at least I like to think so). Lately, I’ve been editing more intentionally, building outfits around a few versatile pieces, and reminding myself that I don’t need six backup looks "just in case." I still love having options, but I’ve learned that packing with a little more purpose (and a little less panic) makes the trip feel smoother — and my suitcase much easier to manage.
What’s your fashion or beauty indulgence?
I’ve started to incorporate hydrafacials into my regular skincare routine, which feels a bit indulgent for me, as I’m not one to typically invest too much in beauty routines (though I know I need to get better on this!)
Favorite shoe style/shoe brand (got to ask!)?
I’m honestly not loyal to one brand — I choose shoes based on where I’m going and what the day holds. I’m always looking for that perfect blend of comfort, versatility, and style. A great leather sandal, a clean white sneaker, or an easy neutral slide — if it can take me from coffee to cocktails (or through an airport in style), it’s a win in my book.
Who’s your celebrity-style crush?
I actually don’t take much inspiration from celebrities — my style is much more influenced by travel and the feeling of a place. I love clothes that tell a story, that move with you, and that feel grounded in experience rather than trends. For me, style evolves through the people I meet, the textures I touch, and the way certain colors or fabrics come alive in different environments. It’s less about emulating someone else and more about expressing where I’ve been — and where I’m going.
Which cocktail best describes your personality?
There’s something about an espresso martini — it’s polished, a little bold, and has just the right amount of sweetness to it. I feel like that’s a fairly good description of me. I like to keep things elevated but never too serious. I’m drawn to experiences (and people) that have depth, energy, and a little sparkle — and that’s exactly what this little cocktail of joy brings to the table. Plus, I function best with a good dose of caffeine and a side of good conversation, so it feels fitting.
If you could have dinner with any three guests, who would they be?
I’d love to have one more dinner with my mom, and have Jane Goodall and David Attenborough as guests.
Follow Caitlin on her adventurous travels!
Instagram: @caitlinpfitzingertravel
LindedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinpfitzinger/
Caitlin Pfitzinger Steps Beyond the Familiar
Meet Caitlin Pfitzinger, a purpose-driven travel advisor with a heart for conservation and connection. A mother of three, a former clinical therapist specializing in anxiety disorders, and now a Virtuoso Certified Travel Advisor, Caitlin channels her background in mental health, love of nature, and personal experiences into curating transformational, conservation-focused travel experiences. Inspired by the untapped dreams of her late mother and her own lifelong passion for wildlife, she founded her travel business, Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel. Grounded yet adventurous, polished yet approachable — Caitlin sees style as a reflection of the places she’s been, and legacy as something built one meaningful experience at a time.
What is your favorite quote or life motto?
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”
It’s easy to live in the familiar — to follow routine, avoid risk, and cling to what feels safe. But the moments that shape us, the ones we carry forever, rarely happen inside the boundaries of comfort. They live out there — in the quiet courage it takes to say yes to the unknown.
At the edge of your comfort zone, life doesn't just begin — it awakens. It reminds you that you're capable of more than you imagined. It’s in the first breath you take standing in a place you’ve never been. In the unexpected conversation that shifts your perspective. In the way your heart beats faster not out of fear, but because something inside you knows you’re growing.
Stepping beyond the familiar isn’t always easy — but that’s where the magic is. That’s where wonder lives. Where clarity unfolds. Where memories are made, not because everything went as planned, but because you showed up with openness, courage, and curiosity. When we choose to move toward what challenges us — to explore new places, meet new people, experience the unfamiliar — we don’t just discover the world. We discover parts of ourselves we didn’t even know were waiting.
And that’s where life truly begins.
Tell us a bit about you.
First and foremost, I am a mom of three wonderful kids ages 10 and under, I’ve been married for 16 years to a kind, loving, supportive husband who is the absolute best father to our children and who also happens to be a vascular surgeon on the side. I grew up wanting to be a marine biologist, was a huge tomboy, loved being out in nature, learning about any and all animals, and playing sports.
I have an undergraduate degree in health, sport and exercise science with a concentration on sports management, and a masters degree in counseling psychology with a focus on sport psychology from The University of Kansas. I worked in college athletics throughout my entire undergraduate and graduate career, from football to sports medicine, but shifted into clinical psychology after graduation. I practiced in a number of different clinical settings, until ultimately finding my way specializing in treating severe anxiety disorders. One of the highlights of my counseling career was in Chicago where I co-led a group intensive outpatient program for the treatment of anxiety disorders utilizing a type of therapy model called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (or ACT for short). It focused on leaning into discomfort in service of our values and I saw change happen like nothing I’ve ever seen before when patients embraced this mindset. And clearly this has stayed with me through my own life experiences.
Once we moved back to Kansas City and started a family I gradually transitioned away from therapy and focused on raising our children while my husband was in General Surgery Residency at KU and Vascular Surgery Fellowship at UNC. Much to my sheer joy we found ourselves moving to my dream destination of Naples, Florida in the summer of 2020 where I vowed to save every sea turtle. And while that hasn’t happened quite yet, it certainly is on my list of goals for the upcoming years.
You’re a Virtuoso Certified Travel Advisor specializing in family, wellness and sustainable luxury travel. How did you get started? What’s the short and sweet story of your beginnings?
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. I felt most at home in nature, endlessly curious about the animal world and deeply connected to it. That sense of awe and empathy shaped how I saw the world and how I wanted to move through it. When I was 16, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 43 years old. She had wanted to travel the world — to see wild, beautiful places and experience life beyond the everyday. But after a nine-year battle with cancer, she passed away before she ever truly got the chance to explore. That loss left an imprint on how I view time, memory, and the urgency of living fully — not someday, but now.
Years later, following this same sentiment after covid, on a whim one afternoon when my two year old was napping, I leaned into my now and opened an LLC and officially entered the travel industry (which I knew nothing about at the time), with a drive for helping families create meaningful memories — starting with luxury trips to Walt Disney World, where joy and togetherness are woven into every nuanced detail. It was fulfilling work to help families navigate the complexities of a Disney vacation, but I felt the call of my connection to nature again — of open landscapes, animals in their natural rhythm, and the kind of travel that stirs the soul.
Everything changed when a trusted safari supplier, who saw that spark in me, invited me to Botswana for a trade show. That trip opened a door I didn’t even know I’d been searching for. The soul of the land, the intimacy of safari life, the profound connection to both nature and purpose — it all came rushing back. I wasn’t just witnessing something extraordinary — I was remembering who I’ve always been. And now it truly feels as if that was the plan for me all along.
Since then, one trip has turned into many, and now I’m preparing for my fifth journey to Africa in just 18 months. As a result, I specialize in designing high-touch, conservation-focused safaris that honor the places that move us, the creatures we share them with, and the memories that shape who we are. I truly believe that it’s not just about travel. It’s about legacy, healing, wonder, and the wild parts of ourselves that are just waiting to be explored, or in my case, remembered.
What do you love most about what you do?
I love introducing people to a world they didn’t know they couldn’t live without.
Your photos taken on your safari trips are to die for. What’s so magical about the safari experience?
Everything. The magic is everywhere - It’s the people, the culture, the vastness of the land, the animals, the humility by the sheer beauty of the environment. It gets into your heart and soul in ways that no words can ever do justice. It’s not only my account of this, but the same is heard in countless stories from lodge owners, guides, and fellow travelers alike - that something happens to visitors when they step off that plane in the middle of the bush - they don’t get back on that plane as the same human being. The bush teaches you how to be mindful, patient, grounded, connected, and present with yourself, others, and the awe inspiring world around you.
You’ve accomplished so much already, but to date, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Introducing my children to cultures different from our own, educating them on new places and introducing them to the most wonderful human beings that I’ve met through the travel industry. I hope that this forever instills a sense of wonder and curiosity in them, encourages them to get out and explore, and have the courage to live their own dreams as they grow.
What are some future goals that you have, both personally and professionally?
A huge personal goal is to revisit getting my PADI scuba certification and I’d love to dive back into my passion for wildlife/landscape photography. One day it would be a tremendous honor to showcase my photographs in a gallery here in Naples.
Professionally I've found myself deeply committed to continuing to build a company grounded in purpose — one that fosters impactful collaborations with safari partners who are not only redefining meaningful travel but are actively preserving and protecting some of the most vulnerable ecosystems on the planet. I’m equally passionate about being an advocate for conserving the beautiful paradise I call home, and I hope to bridge my passion for conservation efforts in Africa with conservation-minded initiatives here in Southwest Florida through meaningful collaborations and partnerships.
What is a fact that most would not know about you?
I just returned from gorilla trekking in Rwanda at the invitation of Singita and my host agency, Embark Beyond’s safaris division, Embark Safaris, — though I have talked about this trip nonstop, so most people close to me definitely know of this wonderful adventure I had the absolute honor of being invited to participate in.
What are your top 3 fave destinations you’ve visited and what’s on your bucket list?
Botswana
Kenya
South Africa
Bucket List:
Namibia, Zimbabwe and returning to Rwanda for a longer stay
Now let’s talk fashion! How would you describe your personal style?
Adaptable. I feel equally at home wearing safari gear as I do in formal wear, while balancing everything in between that seems to be part of life in Naples, Florida. But I would say the usual South Florida casual wear is what you’ll typically find me in and I love being able to wear bright, happy colors with floral and I must say, occasional ocean themed, patterns as my standard easy to wear daily attire. Yes, lots of Lily Pulitzer.
What’s your go-to outfit when you’re pressed for time?
Living in Naples, I gravitate toward outfits that are bright, breezy, and effortless — especially when I’m short on time. My go-to is usually a colorful breezy resort wear dress or a bold statement dress in a lightweight fabric that keeps me cool but still looks polished. I love bright colors— think coral, turquoise, or a tropical floral — paired with simple gold jewelry, fun sandals, and big sunglasses. And as a proud Wallaroo Hat ambassador, more often than not I finish the look with one of their chic, sun-protective hats. Whether I’m headed to a client lunch, the beach, or cocktails on Fifth, it’s easy, fun, and totally Southwest Florida.
Any packing tips you can share with us?
Honestly? I’m an overpacker who is very intentionally working on trying my best to not be an overpacker. I’ve always wanted to be the person who packs light — and I’m getting better with each trip (or at least I like to think so). Lately, I’ve been editing more intentionally, building outfits around a few versatile pieces, and reminding myself that I don’t need six backup looks "just in case." I still love having options, but I’ve learned that packing with a little more purpose (and a little less panic) makes the trip feel smoother — and my suitcase much easier to manage.
What’s your fashion or beauty indulgence?
I’ve started to incorporate hydrafacials into my regular skincare routine, which feels a bit indulgent for me, as I’m not one to typically invest too much in beauty routines (though I know I need to get better on this!)
Favorite shoe style/shoe brand (got to ask!)?
I’m honestly not loyal to one brand — I choose shoes based on where I’m going and what the day holds. I’m always looking for that perfect blend of comfort, versatility, and style. A great leather sandal, a clean white sneaker, or an easy neutral slide — if it can take me from coffee to cocktails (or through an airport in style), it’s a win in my book.
Who’s your celebrity-style crush?
I actually don’t take much inspiration from celebrities — my style is much more influenced by travel and the feeling of a place. I love clothes that tell a story, that move with you, and that feel grounded in experience rather than trends. For me, style evolves through the people I meet, the textures I touch, and the way certain colors or fabrics come alive in different environments. It’s less about emulating someone else and more about expressing where I’ve been — and where I’m going.
Which cocktail best describes your personality?
There’s something about an espresso martini — it’s polished, a little bold, and has just the right amount of sweetness to it. I feel like that’s a fairly good description of me. I like to keep things elevated but never too serious. I’m drawn to experiences (and people) that have depth, energy, and a little sparkle — and that’s exactly what this little cocktail of joy brings to the table. Plus, I function best with a good dose of caffeine and a side of good conversation, so it feels fitting.
If you could have dinner with any three guests, who would they be?
I’d love to have one more dinner with my mom, and have Jane Goodall and David Attenborough as guests.
Follow Caitlin on her adventurous travels!
Instagram: @caitlinpfitzingertravel
LindedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinpfitzinger/