Growth Powered by FareHarbor
Growth: Powered by FareHarbor is a podcast that provides real stories and actionable insights for building and scaling a successful tour and activity business. Host Rebekah Costley, FareHarbor Community Manager, interviews thriving operators, industry experts, and FareHarbor pros about strategies that drive growth. Each episode covers marketing tactics, software features, and the challenges of running a tourism business. The podcast aims to help listeners elevate their businesses with expert advice and practical takeaways.
Episodes
How Dig This scaled a one-of-a-kind attraction through data and innovation
This epsidoe was recorded at the FareHarbor Spark conference in Las Vegas. Rebekah sits down with Ed, founder of Dig This, to talk about building and growing a one-of-a-kind tourism business. Dig This Las Vegas is a heavy equipment attraction where guests operate real earthmoving equipment in a five-acre adult-sized sandbox. Ed shares how the business started in Steamboat Springs, why he moved the
How Tour Operators Can Show Up in AI Search with Ann Smarty of Smarty Marketing
AI is changing how customers discover and plan their travel experiences, but what does that actually mean for tour operators? In this episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor, we break down how AI search works, how it differs from traditional SEO, and what operators should be focusing on right now to stay visible. Rebekah is joined by FareHarbor's Manager of Digital Marketing, Christopher Illes, an
What It Takes to Build a Destination with P3's Arden Tilghman
In this episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor, Rebekah sits down with Arden of Lake Louisa State Park to talk about what it really takes to build a destination, not just operate within one. Arden shares how she grew her business from one park in 2016 to six parks across Central Florida, why persistence matters more than having a perfect plan, and how she thinks about creating experiences that he
Inside the Growth of Key West's Danger Charters
Recorded live at Spark 2025, this episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor features Haig from Danger Charters in Key West, Florida, alongside FareHarbor Account Manager Devin. Together, they unpack what it takes to grow a charter business in a competitive tourism market: building a loyal, repeat customer base and creating a strong team culture while also testing new revenue drivers like combos and
Live at Spark: An Interview with FareHarbor CEO Andrea Carini
Recorded live at Spark, this special episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor features a dynamic conversation with CEO Andrea Carini. Andrea shares his perspective on how operators can evolve alongside AI innovation, how automation is reshaping free time and demand for experiences, and what it truly means to build for long-term growth in today's tourism landscape. He also pulls back the curtain on
How Sea the City Drives Demand with Influencers, Affiliates, and Analytics
In this episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor, we sit down with Adam, founder of Sea the City, a New York City–based water tourism operator offering jet ski tours and hot tub boat experiences. Adam shares how Sea the City has grown from a three–jet ski operation into a multi-location business, and what it takes to stand out in one of the most competitive tourism markets in the world. The convers
Cómo una Familia Construyó un Legado en la Isla con Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park
En este episodio especial en español, conversamos con Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park en Puerto Rico, un negocio familiar de tercera generación que ha pasado de ofrecer paseos a caballo locales a convertirse en uno de los destinos de aventura más reconocidos de la isla. El equipo comparte cómo la cultura, la familia y el crecimiento sostenible han guiado su trayectoria y siguen dando forma a la
Evolving Through Adversity: Sea Maui's Journey Forward
Peter from Sea Maui joins Rebekah and Monique from FareHarbor for Part Two of our special Hawai'i Series on Growth Powered by FareHarbor. Recording from the FareHarbor Meetup, Peter shares what it means to grow a tourism business in Hawai'i with intention, heart, and community at the core. From navigating wildfires and COVID to strengthening brand loyalty, Peter reflects on the lessons that helped
Building a Tourism Business with Purpose featuring Nā Pali Coast Tours
Kamalani from Nā Pali Coast Tours joins Rebekah on-site in Kaua'i for a special episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor. As a Native Hawaiian and second-generation business owner, Kamalani shares what it means to carry on his family's legacy while honoring the land, history, and community of the Nā Pali Coast. They dive into topics like responsible tourism, what it takes to run a cultural tour bus
Unlocking Earning Potential with GetYourGuide & FareHarbor
This episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor brings you an inside look at GetYourGuide, one of the leading online travel agencies (OTAs) in the tourism industry. Rebekah talks with Allie, Senior Account Executive at GetYourGuide, about how operators can succeed on the platform and how FareHarbor clients can leverage that connection. Topics include: What it takes to get listed (and verified) H
Bonus Episode! Celebrating World Pride Month: A Conversation with Sundog Sailing
In this Pride Month special, Rebekah speaks with Captain Jen and Captain Janet of Sundog Sailing about their journey as queer women in the sailing and tourism industry. They share how they built a business rooted in inclusion, hospitality, and joy all while creating a safe space on the water for everyone. Together, they reflect on the importance of visibility and representation in tourism, the per
What Tour Operators Can Learn from Adventure Cat's Seamless Booking Process
Charlie from Adventure Cat Sailing joins Rebekah to share how one of San Francisco's most iconic tour businesses creates a smooth, guest-first booking experience on and off the water. They discuss what it takes to build trust through branding, how FareHarbor tools help remove friction from the guest journey, and why thoughtful pricing, team culture, and follow-up reviews all matter. If you're thin
Smart Booking, Happy Elephants: The Tech Behind a Thai Sanctuary's Success
What happens when a growing ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand upgrades to a smarter reservation system? In this episode, Rebekah sits down with Vincent, General Manager of Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, to explore how FareHarbor helped them streamline operations, improve guest experience, and scale sustainably. Vincent shares the sanctuary's growth story, including how they survived the pandemic,
How Tour Operators Can Maximize Revenue with Digital Ads and Sales Strategy with Andrew Slaga
How can tour and activity operators use Google Things to Do (GTTD) to drive more direct bookings and increase visibility? In this episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor, FareHarbor Community Manager Rebekah Costley dives into how operators can leverage Google Things to Do to capture more organic traffic, optimize their listings, and reduce reliance on OTAs. Tune in to learn: ✔ What Google Things
Tourism Trailblazers: Women Who Lead and Build (International Women's Day)
Join host Rebekah Costley for a special International Women's Day edition of Growth Powered by FareHarbor, where we celebrate the resilience, innovation, and success of women entrepreneurs in the tourism industry. In this episode, five inspiring women share their entrepreneurial journeys, challenges they've overcome, and strategies for success—from running food tours in Puerto Rico to leading adve
Driving Traffic with Content: How Lia Garcia Scales Tours with Blogs and Influencers
This episode is #incredible. Rebekah chats with co-founder Lia Garcia of Louisville Food Tours, about her journey from travel blogging to running a successful food tour business. Leah shares how she used SEO, influencer marketing, and affiliate programs to increase visibility and drive sales. Leah also discusses in detail the power of authentic storytelling and using it to build meaningful partner
In the Spotlight at FareHarbor Spark: Authentic Stories from Our Community
We're bringing you authentic stories from Spark 2024 in New Orleans in this episode! Join clients from diverse industries like Best Cabo Yachts, Cajun Food Tours, Navajo Tours Direct (and more!) as they share how FareHarbor has helped streamline their operations and boost bookings. From enhancing the customer experience to utilizing powerful features like FareHarbor Dock and our affiliate tools, t
Leading FareHarbor Forward: Insights from Our CEO Andrea Carini
Rebekah sits down with FareHarbor's CEO, Andrea, to discuss the future of the company and the recent changes that have sparked conversation across the industry. Andrea shares his vision for FareHarbor, insights into new product releases, and the "why" behind recent updates like the API and direct booking fees. Tune in for a transparent conversation on how FareHarbor aims to support clients' growth
Innovating Tradition: Historic Denver's Journey to Advanced Booking Technology
This episode of Growth Powered by FareHarbor is recorded at the historical Molly Brown House! Rebekah visits the home of the "unsinkable" Molly Brown to chat with the team behind the Molly Brown House, Historic Denver. They share how they've leveraged FareHarbor tools like FareHarbor Dock to streamline operations and boost walk-up sales. Plus, they dive into what it takes to stay relevant in the t
GA4 for Tour Operators: Unlock Your Potential with Simplified Actions and Insights
In this episode of Growth: Powered by FareHarbor, Rebekah sits down with FareHarbor's GA4 experts, Elle and Adam, to give a high-level understanding of everything you need to know about Google Analytics 4. They discuss the key differences between UA and GA4, how tour operators can leverage GA4's event tracking features, and what you are (probably) missing in your tracking. This episode will give y
Maximizing Bookings: Discover 2025 SEO Trends and Tactics with Clear Sky Tourism
In this episode of Growth: Powered by FareHarbor, Rebekah talks with marketing company Clear Sky Tourism to discuss how they help tour operators boost bookings and grow their businesses with smart marketing strategies. Listen in to learn the basics of leveraging SEO, paid ads, and find out if AI can actually help drive more traffic and increase conversions. This episode offers valuable strategies
Seasonal Strategies for Year-Long Success: Insights from Anchorage Trolley Tours
In this episode, Rebekah speaks with Cyrus Aldeman, owner of Anchorage Trolley Tours, about his top strategies for driving bookings year-round in a highly seasonal destination. Cyrus shares his methods for managing inventory and leveraging local partnerships, along with a look at his fine-tuned FareHarbor setup that streamlines operations and captures both online and walk-up sales. If you're looki
Selling Smart: Operator Danny Peg Discusses Scaling Your Business with Affiliate Relationships
Join Rebekah and FareHarbor's Channel Specialist Cameron Heth as they chat with Danny Pegg, owner of Vagabond Cruises and founder of the successful reseller Let's Book It. In this episode, Danny shares his secrets to successfully reselling other operators' tours through multiple websites across the U.S.. He offers real-world strategies for operators looking to grow their business and revenue throu
Exclusive Look: Zack Feld Discusses FareHarbor's New Product Evolution
This season's opening episode highlights how operators can grow their business leveraging FareHarbor's diverse product lineup. Rebekah sits down with Zack Feld, FareHarbor's Product Enablement Manager, to discuss how these tools can boost online bookings and streamline day-to-day operations. Zack shares insights into new product developments, upcoming features, and how FareHarbor continuously enh
Welcome to Growth Powered By FareHarbor Season 2!
Get a quick look at Season 2 of Growth Powered by FareHarbor! Tune in for more expert tips and real-world insights that will help take your business to the next level. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and don't miss the three-episode premiere on October 13th!
The Sweet Taste of Success with Will Lydgate of Lydgate Farms
In this episode of Growth powered by FareHarbor, we had the pleasure of diving into the delicious world of chocolate tours with Will Lydgate, owner of Lydgate Farms on the beautiful island of Kauai, Hawaii. Will shared his journey of growing a top-rated chocolate farm tour and the unique challenges and rewards of agri-tourism. Join us again for the next episode of Growth powered by FareHarbor, w
AI Tools to Manage & Grow Your Business with Christian Watts
Think AI is only for the industry giants? Think again! In this episode Christian Watts, CEO of Magpie Travel simplifies the concept of AI and demonstrates how AI tools can bring a transformative impact to your tour and activity business. Christian shares practical examples of how you can use AI to help manage and grow your business. This is the audio version of our most recent webinar. You can w
Selling Unique Tour Experiences With Black Cab Heritage Tours and Travel Curious
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of FareHarbor Client Rob Woodford, the founder of Black Cab Heritage Tours in London. Rob shares how he transformed the iconic London black cab into a premier travel experience, offering unique tours like James Bond, Downton Abbey, and Harry Potter. We are also joined by Alex Grant, the founder of Travel Curious, who acquired Black Cab Heritage
Buying and Selling a Business: What Every Tour Operator Needs to Know
Are you thinking of buying a business or selling one? Or maybe you are just curious what that process looks like? Then this episode of Growth is just for you. Since 2015, Trish Higgins and the Chenmark team have acquired 30 to 40 different businesses including many in our experiences sector. In this episode, Trish reveals some of the lessons learned that will help you buy or sell your experienc
The Impact of AI And How Best To Work With OTAs with Peter Syme
Listen in to a Q and A with Tourpreneur's Peter Syme recorded at our Edinburgh MeetUp hosted by Shane Whaley. Travel Industry veteran Peter Syme shares his no holds barred insights on how AI is disrupting the customer experience and he shares a traffic light system for each. sector of the tours and activity industry. Is yours red, amber or green? Peter also shares his views on how best to work w
Deep Dive into Success: Byron's Journey with Kona Honu Divers and Snorkel Tours
Shane Whaley talks with Byron Kay, owner of Kona Honu Divers and Snorkel Tours, and Sarah Ellis, Senior Account Manager at FareHarbor They discuss the unique challenges of marketing a dive and snorkel tour business in Hawaii, strategies for business growth, and the importance of SEO. Byron shares his experiences with using SEO tools like SEMrush and CausalFunnel an AI platform for boosting conve
Reels and TikTok for Business, Really? (Insights from FareHarbor Experts)
FareHarbor's Digital Marketing Strategist, Tristen, and TikTok guru, Rebekah, spill the beans on harnessing TikTok and Instagram Reels for business growth. No dancing required! On this episode we discuss the effectiveness of short-form videos for tour and activity operators. The Appeal of Short-Form Videos Rebecca, an Enterprise Account Manager at FareHarbor, kicked off the discussion by highlight
How We Grew Jamie's Whale Watching and Bear Tours
Join Adam Doolittle of Jamie's Whaling Station in Tofino, BC as he shares insights on a wide range of topics, from the tour business's digital marketing success to hiring/retaining key talent. #####Join our FareHarbor Client Online Community Today##### In this episode, we chat with Adam Doolittle, General Manager of Jamie's Whaling Station in Tofino, BC, about growing and sustaining a tour and act
Pedals to Profits - How Torin Transformed A Craigslist Buy into a Thriving Bike Tour Business!
Our guest Torin Kexel reveals how, with no previous travel industry experience, he built a tour business on Craigslist! Plus he reveals the three key strategies responsible for the Flying Bike's rapid growth. The Skinny - We highly recommend giving this episode a listen if you are interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a successful bike tour company. Torin's journey is filled with va
So what is this podcast all about?
In this brief episode of Growth powered by FareHarbor, Head of Community Shane Whaley and AM Trainer Sam McCabe reveal what we hope to achieve with our new podcast and share more about what's coming up.
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