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Are You There, Spirit? It’s Me, Travis: Life Lessons from the Other Side
Transformational life lessons from a psychic medium affectionately known as the “Internet’s gay uncle,” culled from his own life and from thousands of client readings—to help you become the fullest possible version of yourself.
For Travis Holp, growing up in Ohio in a conservative family challenged his very understanding of himself. As a child playing with a Ouija board with his grandmother, he received messages that felt as natural to him as breathing, and yet he quickly learned to keep his understanding to himself. He was shunned by his family for being gay and spent difficult years searching for his purpose and belief in himself. When, on a lark, he began doing tarot readings on TikTok, he soon became aware that the lessons from Spirit were just as relevant for him as they were for the friends and clients he was reading for. And when his social media following exploded, and he embraced his role as a medium, his life became meaningful in ways he never expected.
In Are You There, Spirit? It’s Me, Travis, Holp shares the lessons he has learned through both his own life experiences and the conversations he has conducted for clients with loved ones on the other side. Through stories and exercises, he opens us up to a new and expansive way of understanding our place in the world, helping us embrace our authenticity, overcome fear, welcome change, and live with real purpose. And on every page, as he leads us toward self-discovery and profound healing, his sparkling personality, optimism, and warmth remind us that we are all loved, and that a meaningful life is one filled with joy.
For Travis Holp, growing up in Ohio in a conservative family challenged his very understanding of himself. As a child playing with a Ouija board with his grandmother, he received messages that felt as natural to him as breathing, and yet he quickly learned to keep his understanding to himself. He was shunned by his family for being gay and spent difficult years searching for his purpose and belief in himself. When, on a lark, he began doing tarot readings on TikTok, he soon became aware that the lessons from Spirit were just as relevant for him as they were for the friends and clients he was reading for. And when his social media following exploded, and he embraced his role as a medium, his life became meaningful in ways he never expected.
In Are You There, Spirit? It’s Me, Travis, Holp shares the lessons he has learned through both his own life experiences and the conversations he has conducted for clients with loved ones on the other side. Through stories and exercises, he opens us up to a new and expansive way of understanding our place in the world, helping us embrace our authenticity, overcome fear, welcome change, and live with real purpose. And on every page, as he leads us toward self-discovery and profound healing, his sparkling personality, optimism, and warmth remind us that we are all loved, and that a meaningful life is one filled with joy.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
25 people are currently reading
2740 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 21, 2025
Travis Holp, psychic medium, is known as the “Internet’s gay uncle,”
Travis relates many transformational life lessons in his book, some of them learned from his own mistakes and experiences. He also describes some of his client readings, connecting them with loved ones who have passed. These I found particularly interesting.
Chapters on abundance and manifestation were also of interest for me. Towards the end of the book, there had been a sentence that had been going round in my head that day, and I had literally thought about it just before turning the page, only to find that very sentence on it! Coincidence or Synchronicity - Travis would definitely go for the latter.
Although quite repetitive at times, this is a warm uplifting memoir.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Spiegel and Grau for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Travis relates many transformational life lessons in his book, some of them learned from his own mistakes and experiences. He also describes some of his client readings, connecting them with loved ones who have passed. These I found particularly interesting.
Chapters on abundance and manifestation were also of interest for me. Towards the end of the book, there had been a sentence that had been going round in my head that day, and I had literally thought about it just before turning the page, only to find that very sentence on it! Coincidence or Synchronicity - Travis would definitely go for the latter.
Although quite repetitive at times, this is a warm uplifting memoir.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Spiegel and Grau for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
August 30, 2025
What a lovely, loving, life-affirming book. Author Travis Holp shares his journey of healing, trusting Spirit, and coming into his own as a medium.
Travis uses his own life story, and the stories of his clients, to share greater spiritual truths - about how we are eternal beings, infinitely loved and supported, and how our loved-ones live on in spirit after they pass from this plane to the next. His voice is authentic and his storytelling is heartfelt and gentle. His resilience and light shine through on the page. Honestly I had never heard of him before reading this, but I can see why people would be drawn to his kind, uplifting, vibrant personality.
As an aspiring medium/intuitive, Travis' vulnerability about his own journey and the reassurance and support he shares from Spirit felt so encouraging. It reminded me to trust that things will unfold in perfect timing and that we are never alone - always surrounded by love.
Accessible and easy to read with a couple of simple mediumship & manifesting exercises at the end. Would recommend to anyone curious about or interested in mediumship, Spiritualism/Spiritism, intuitive development.
ARC from NetGalley.
Travis uses his own life story, and the stories of his clients, to share greater spiritual truths - about how we are eternal beings, infinitely loved and supported, and how our loved-ones live on in spirit after they pass from this plane to the next. His voice is authentic and his storytelling is heartfelt and gentle. His resilience and light shine through on the page. Honestly I had never heard of him before reading this, but I can see why people would be drawn to his kind, uplifting, vibrant personality.
As an aspiring medium/intuitive, Travis' vulnerability about his own journey and the reassurance and support he shares from Spirit felt so encouraging. It reminded me to trust that things will unfold in perfect timing and that we are never alone - always surrounded by love.
Accessible and easy to read with a couple of simple mediumship & manifesting exercises at the end. Would recommend to anyone curious about or interested in mediumship, Spiritualism/Spiritism, intuitive development.
ARC from NetGalley.
November 5, 2025
Thank you netgalley, Spiegel & Grau and @ TravisHolp for allowing me to read this book. I was born spiritually gifted as a lightworker empath, psychic, medium, empath and healer. When he says how did he know he know he was a medium he just knew. I was the same way I just knew. The book is an eye opening for people who have been asking questions and want answers. He talks about his life and his experiences which are interesting. We all have a magic inside us. There's even exercises to build up your abilities. Travis keep helping those who need you.
October 13, 2025
This was such a beautiful and emotional book. As someone that has always leant more into the spiritual side and believed the signs, this book was so affirming for me. Moving forward I will accept the messages more opening, knowing its all in good nature.
Thank you Travis for this beautiful book, I will be openly recommending this book to everyone, and seeking out more of your content in the future!
Thank you Travis for this beautiful book, I will be openly recommending this book to everyone, and seeking out more of your content in the future!
August 22, 2025
Are You There Spirit? It’s Me, Travis is one of those rare books that hits every emotion in the spectrum and does it with so much honesty that you cannot help but be pulled along for the ride. Travis Holp, a gay psychic medium from the Midwest, has written a memoir that is gut-wrenching, tear-jerking, and genuinely comedic in a way that feels natural rather than forced.
What makes this book so unique is how it blends Holp’s personal story with his work as a medium. He is navigating his trauma while also carrying the voices and experiences of those he communicates with on the other side of life. That combination creates a deeply layered narrative. You get to see not just the pain and healing of his own journey, but also how his gift brings comfort, closure, and sometimes laughter to others.
The book is an emotional roller coaster in the best possible sense. Some passages are raw and heartbreaking, moments of deep reflection that made me stop and sit with them, and then out of nowhere a line that had me laughing through tears. That mix of heavy and light makes the reading experience unforgettable because it feels so much like real life—messy, funny, heartbreaking, and beautiful all at once.
What stood out most for me is the vulnerability Travis brings to the page. He does not shy away from his struggles or the weight of holding space for others, but he also invites readers to see the light that exists even in the darkest times. His voice is warm and conversational, almost like you are sitting across the table from a friend who just happens to be sharing stories about both this life and the next.
By the time I finished, I felt both wrung out and uplifted. This is a book that proves even in heartbreak there is space for laughter, and even in laughter there is room for healing. It is a wild ride, but one you will never want to get off.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves memoirs that are brutally honest yet filled with hope, and especially to readers curious about mediumship told through the lens of someone who has lived both trauma and transcendence. Travis Holp has given us a rare and beautiful gift with this book, one that will stay with me for a long time.
What makes this book so unique is how it blends Holp’s personal story with his work as a medium. He is navigating his trauma while also carrying the voices and experiences of those he communicates with on the other side of life. That combination creates a deeply layered narrative. You get to see not just the pain and healing of his own journey, but also how his gift brings comfort, closure, and sometimes laughter to others.
The book is an emotional roller coaster in the best possible sense. Some passages are raw and heartbreaking, moments of deep reflection that made me stop and sit with them, and then out of nowhere a line that had me laughing through tears. That mix of heavy and light makes the reading experience unforgettable because it feels so much like real life—messy, funny, heartbreaking, and beautiful all at once.
What stood out most for me is the vulnerability Travis brings to the page. He does not shy away from his struggles or the weight of holding space for others, but he also invites readers to see the light that exists even in the darkest times. His voice is warm and conversational, almost like you are sitting across the table from a friend who just happens to be sharing stories about both this life and the next.
By the time I finished, I felt both wrung out and uplifted. This is a book that proves even in heartbreak there is space for laughter, and even in laughter there is room for healing. It is a wild ride, but one you will never want to get off.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves memoirs that are brutally honest yet filled with hope, and especially to readers curious about mediumship told through the lens of someone who has lived both trauma and transcendence. Travis Holp has given us a rare and beautiful gift with this book, one that will stay with me for a long time.
November 6, 2025
Inspiring and such good read. I absolutely loved this book. I cried a few times. I highly recommend. Thanks NetGallery!
May 11, 2025
It's interesting how well this dovetailed with exactly what I needed today. I was finishing this, highlighting like mad, and then went on to another book, by a celebrity who went through a life changing experience. That book said so many of the same things. This is what Travis speaks to. What do you need? What are you putting out into the world?
If you are expecting only a list of anecdotes, it's so much more.
There is humor, real struggles, yes, mediumship examples, and Travis' difficulties coming out to his family as a gay man. (I wept at some of this, because my step son is gay, and it could have been so much worse for him. He is now happily married to the nicest man I could hope for him.)
Preorder this. You will really be touched in so many ways.
Thank you to Speigel and Grau as well as the author and NetGalley for a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
All opinions are my own.
#AreYouThereSpirit?ItsMeTravis #TravisHolp #Spiegel&Grau #NetGalley
If you are expecting only a list of anecdotes, it's so much more.
There is humor, real struggles, yes, mediumship examples, and Travis' difficulties coming out to his family as a gay man. (I wept at some of this, because my step son is gay, and it could have been so much worse for him. He is now happily married to the nicest man I could hope for him.)
Preorder this. You will really be touched in so many ways.
Thank you to Speigel and Grau as well as the author and NetGalley for a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
All opinions are my own.
#AreYouThereSpirit?ItsMeTravis #TravisHolp #Spiegel&Grau #NetGalley
August 3, 2025
I can’t even count how many times this book made me cry. Thank you so much for this gem Travis and sharing parts of yourself with us! I laughed, cried, mourned, and rejoiced!
As a queer woman, and first person out in my family, I truly resonate with your story. Thank you for this ARC!
You mentioned to pay attention to synchronicities all through out this book, including in chapter nine, and I on page 147-148 (chapter ten) you talked about how Delta’s father passed by exposure to agent orange in the Vietnam war, and on the next page in bold was the word “Papaw”. While reading your book, I thought heavily of my grandparent who passed during my honeymoon in 2022. He was my papaw and also passed by agent orange exposure in the Vietnam war. I was touched by this and did not pass this off as a coincidence as I may have before taking your advice.
Thank you so much again for this, it was truly a pleasure to read and I hold your words near and dear to my heart.
***On Page 119 first word “what” needs to be changed to “when”
As a queer woman, and first person out in my family, I truly resonate with your story. Thank you for this ARC!
You mentioned to pay attention to synchronicities all through out this book, including in chapter nine, and I on page 147-148 (chapter ten) you talked about how Delta’s father passed by exposure to agent orange in the Vietnam war, and on the next page in bold was the word “Papaw”. While reading your book, I thought heavily of my grandparent who passed during my honeymoon in 2022. He was my papaw and also passed by agent orange exposure in the Vietnam war. I was touched by this and did not pass this off as a coincidence as I may have before taking your advice.
Thank you so much again for this, it was truly a pleasure to read and I hold your words near and dear to my heart.
***On Page 119 first word “what” needs to be changed to “when”
November 10, 2025
Books really do find you when you need them most. Originally, I requested this ARC because I absolutely love Travis and his work as a medium. I first stumbled upon his instagram account back in 2021 and I always manage to find his posts when I need them most. The same applies to this audiobook.
My mind has been opened up so much because of this, and I am so grateful I went with my gut when requesting this ARC (memoirs are not usually something I request on NetGalley). Since starting this audiobook, I have seen more synchronicities than I could’ve ever imagined and have gotten signs from my loved ones that I used to feel so blocked from.
Travis was able to open up a part of me I had locked away due to a mindset of lack, and I am forever grateful for that. I absolutely loved the exercises at the end and will 100% be trying them out! Thank you for sharing your story, Travis and for helping me see how Spirit has been with me all along 💕
✧ This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review ✧
My mind has been opened up so much because of this, and I am so grateful I went with my gut when requesting this ARC (memoirs are not usually something I request on NetGalley). Since starting this audiobook, I have seen more synchronicities than I could’ve ever imagined and have gotten signs from my loved ones that I used to feel so blocked from.
Travis was able to open up a part of me I had locked away due to a mindset of lack, and I am forever grateful for that. I absolutely loved the exercises at the end and will 100% be trying them out! Thank you for sharing your story, Travis and for helping me see how Spirit has been with me all along 💕
✧ This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review ✧
November 3, 2025
I’ve mentioned before I was invited to an amazing author talk by publisher, Spiegel and Grau, and Travis Holp was one of the speakers. Hearing from Travis directly in the talk immediately endeared me to him, and I could not wait to read his full story. I’m happy to say I treasured reading Are You There, Spirit. I learned and was inspired by all of Travis’s knowledge and experiences. I’m open to signs from loved ones who are no longer here. I have certainly felt them.
Travis has a way of sharing that’s warm and reassuring. His writing is easy-to-read and encouraging. I was also struck by his honesty and strength. So grateful I read this book!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Travis has a way of sharing that’s warm and reassuring. His writing is easy-to-read and encouraging. I was also struck by his honesty and strength. So grateful I read this book!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
October 30, 2025
If you aren't already following Travis on Instagram, go now! It is always a bright spot in my day when one of Travis' videos pops up on my Instagram feed, so when I heard he wrote a book I knew I had to read it. I am thankful to say Are you there, Spirit? It's me, Travis did not disappoint!
This book gives you some insight into jow Travis became this outgoing social media personality and psychic medium. He also showcases how the spiritual readings not only help those who the readings are intended but so how they help him. This book is a story of healing, self-discovery and love!
Huge thank you to Travis and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I loved it and believe others will as well. This is my honest opinion and review.
This book comes to you November 4th 2025!
This book gives you some insight into jow Travis became this outgoing social media personality and psychic medium. He also showcases how the spiritual readings not only help those who the readings are intended but so how they help him. This book is a story of healing, self-discovery and love!
Huge thank you to Travis and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I loved it and believe others will as well. This is my honest opinion and review.
This book comes to you November 4th 2025!
November 6, 2025
I was waiting impatiently once I heard about this book from everyone's favorite "Internet Gay Uncle". I follow Travis on social media and was attracted by his honest and emotive energy.
Travis has woven his journey to mediumship, demystifying "spirit" and being of service to others into a beautiful book. I believe in spirit and mediumship, and through his client's stories, can see Travis' healing energy at work as a bridge between those we love who have passed on, and ourselves still in the living world.
I really like that Travis addressed abundance and manifestation, and would have loved more expansion on those topics.
Travis' story is heartfelt, wonder-filled and emotional. I feel his energy with every page and I thank him for sharing his gift and journey with us.
Travis has woven his journey to mediumship, demystifying "spirit" and being of service to others into a beautiful book. I believe in spirit and mediumship, and through his client's stories, can see Travis' healing energy at work as a bridge between those we love who have passed on, and ourselves still in the living world.
I really like that Travis addressed abundance and manifestation, and would have loved more expansion on those topics.
Travis' story is heartfelt, wonder-filled and emotional. I feel his energy with every page and I thank him for sharing his gift and journey with us.
November 19, 2025
I was not familiar with Travis Holp prior to reading his book but I looked him up and he is widely popular. I don't know that I am sold on mediums but I do enjoy their stories. In this book Travis speaks mostly of his own journey and acceptance, some of it was repetitious but heartwarming and how wonderful that he came out on top. He does share a few readings of clients, I liked those best and would have liked a few more. He speaks a lot of the universe and on that he didn't have to convince me as I've had those type of encounters. At the end he provides exercises to better connect and I will certainly try those.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
September 1, 2025
Full of great advice and nuggets of wisdom that everyone ought to read and ponder, now more than ever.
I especially loved that the info on synchronicities was setting me up for a big one.
In the Chapter titled September, I had already started thinking about and singing the song that a dearly departed loved one sends my way when I need it most.
That song? Heaven is a Place on Earth --which, is the title two chapters after September. Isn't the Universe a trip?
Thank you Travis for doing your part making heaven a place on earth. The rest of us need to do the same.
I especially loved that the info on synchronicities was setting me up for a big one.
In the Chapter titled September, I had already started thinking about and singing the song that a dearly departed loved one sends my way when I need it most.
That song? Heaven is a Place on Earth --which, is the title two chapters after September. Isn't the Universe a trip?
Thank you Travis for doing your part making heaven a place on earth. The rest of us need to do the same.
October 22, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised to receive a copy of this book from the Goodreads. Prior to reading this book, I was not familiar with Travis and his work.
This book was a sweet and genuine read. Definitely helpful for people who are going through it. Themes of grief and dealing with homophobia from those closest to him were addressed honestly. The lesson being always coming back to your real self is highly encouraged.
I wept through several chapters and tried to take my time to read mindfully, though I really just didn’t want to put this one down.
This book was a sweet and genuine read. Definitely helpful for people who are going through it. Themes of grief and dealing with homophobia from those closest to him were addressed honestly. The lesson being always coming back to your real self is highly encouraged.
I wept through several chapters and tried to take my time to read mindfully, though I really just didn’t want to put this one down.
December 13, 2025
Here’s the deal… do I believe in mediums? Jury’s still out, but do I like them? Yes. Anyone who makes some feel better after talking to them, gives good advice, makes you think how you can better yourself, brings uplifting energy, and helps people process their grief are good in my opinion.
The author has some really sweet, thought-provoking, and positive messages that I have heard from him since 2021. His book was very much the same and worth the read. I loved his stories from his life and from his readings. I could have had more reading stories but still solid.
The author has some really sweet, thought-provoking, and positive messages that I have heard from him since 2021. His book was very much the same and worth the read. I loved his stories from his life and from his readings. I could have had more reading stories but still solid.
June 24, 2025
Loved this book so much!
Travis has been an idol of mine for so long now, as a spiritual girlie & psychic medium myself I screamed when I received the email to say I'd been accepted for an early copy of his book. I loved how raw, honest & real it was. It was so true to him & I could actually imagine him writing/saying evening as I was reading it! Thanks again!!
Travis has been an idol of mine for so long now, as a spiritual girlie & psychic medium myself I screamed when I received the email to say I'd been accepted for an early copy of his book. I loved how raw, honest & real it was. It was so true to him & I could actually imagine him writing/saying evening as I was reading it! Thanks again!!
July 24, 2025
Are You There, Spirit? It’s Me, Travis is a heartfelt, personality-driven exploration of healing, identity, and spiritual connection. Though familiar in its therapeutic tropes, Holp’s authenticity and lived experiences create a powerful resonance. It offers both guidance and comfort, especially for those navigating grief or seeking greater meaning in everyday synchronicities.
October 22, 2025
i am personally not a spiritualist so went into this with a bunch of scepticism about how it would flow. but Travis's focus throughout is less on that and more on affirmation, owning your place, and becoming your true self, and I found that nice. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
October 25, 2025
Aww what a beautiful soul Travis is. I love reading about a medium's life and how they inspire others with their stories.
This was a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2025
Travis is a great guy and he does so well sharing his journey with Spirit throughout Life. What a wonderful message. Resilience, Authenticity, Abundance and Peace of heart come through Uncle Travis's words in this book. Spirit and Joy shine brightly and I am here for it. Thank you, Travis.
December 3, 2025
Wonderfully warm and inspiring memoir of a gay male medium. Travis feels like a dear friend you can have a deep conversation with anytime you are together. His book reminds me to love authentically, be present, and lead with empathy and love.
December 12, 2025
Travis, this book is so beautiful and true. I am proud of you, and grateful for every chance you took to make yourself whole and open to magic. And then taking the risk every day to share that gift so we can pick it up for ourselves. Thank you!
November 10, 2025
Honestly, I didn’t know who Travis was before this book. Something grabbed me from this cover and I’m so glad it did. He was a delight and he’s got such a gift which comes through on the pages!
November 18, 2025
Such an amazing journey. I laughed I cried and I found a new perspective on mediumship.
Read
December 24, 2025I actually listened to the audiobook, which was read by the author, it felt like having a conversation with him.
This was the first book in the genre for me. I enjoyed it.
This was the first book in the genre for me. I enjoyed it.
November 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this book - definitely made me think about spirits and after life. Told with humour and humility - an interesting read.
October 27, 2025
✨ Wow. This book is a soul-stirring experience.
Spirit, Are You There? It’s Me, Travis is not just a read—it’s a journey. I had to take it in small, reflective bites because every chapter offers so much to think about, feel through, and sit with. Travis Holp’s storytelling is raw, unfiltered, and deeply human. His vulnerability leaps off the page as he shares personal experiences, spiritual encounters, and the lessons that shaped him.
What moved me most was how openly Travis describes what it feels like to connect with Spirit. He doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional toll or the beauty—it’s all there, laid bare. His honesty taps into truths many of us quietly carry but often second-guess. Through his stories, he reminds us that we are never truly alone, even in our darkest moments.
I especially appreciated how he explored family dynamics and the idea that family isn’t always defined by blood—it’s chosen, felt, and built through love. That message hit home.
Though Travis may have gained popularity through TikTok, this book proves he’s so much more than a viral moment. He’s love and light in human form, and his words reflect that.
This is a book I’ll be purchasing in physical form—it’s one I want to return to again and again. It offers profound insight into mediumship, healing, and the spiritual threads that connect us all.
Thank you to Spiegel & Grau and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this gem. It was a gift—and one I won’t forget.
Spirit, Are You There? It’s Me, Travis is not just a read—it’s a journey. I had to take it in small, reflective bites because every chapter offers so much to think about, feel through, and sit with. Travis Holp’s storytelling is raw, unfiltered, and deeply human. His vulnerability leaps off the page as he shares personal experiences, spiritual encounters, and the lessons that shaped him.
What moved me most was how openly Travis describes what it feels like to connect with Spirit. He doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional toll or the beauty—it’s all there, laid bare. His honesty taps into truths many of us quietly carry but often second-guess. Through his stories, he reminds us that we are never truly alone, even in our darkest moments.
I especially appreciated how he explored family dynamics and the idea that family isn’t always defined by blood—it’s chosen, felt, and built through love. That message hit home.
Though Travis may have gained popularity through TikTok, this book proves he’s so much more than a viral moment. He’s love and light in human form, and his words reflect that.
This is a book I’ll be purchasing in physical form—it’s one I want to return to again and again. It offers profound insight into mediumship, healing, and the spiritual threads that connect us all.
Thank you to Spiegel & Grau and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this gem. It was a gift—and one I won’t forget.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews