Business Class: The Global Tourism Leadership Conversation
Business Class features conversations shaping the future of destinations, workforce development, regenerative tourism, leadership, and visitor economies. Presented by Learn Tourism, the podcast explores how tourism leaders can drive positive change in their communities. Listeners gain insights from global experts on building sustainable and thriving tourism destinations.
Episodes
Travel Changes Young Lives for Good With SYTA's Carylann Assante
Carylann Assante has led the Student & Youth Travel Association (SYTA) and the SYTA Youth Foundation for more than 15 years, and her own story starts in the back of a 1960s station wagon, leaning on a cooler with a road atlas, funded by her mom's "travel bank account." In this episode, she and Stephen (friends for about 15 years themselves) talk about how travel shapes young peo
Our Everyday, Your Adventure: Community-First with Linda Kleist of Visit Greenland
Some visitors arrive in Greenland asking where the train station is. (There are no roads between towns.) Linda Kleist, the new CEO of Visit Greenland, treats moments like that as feedback. In this conversation, she explains why Greenland measures success by community support and not just visitor numbers, and how one idea, "our everyday, your adventure," is helping Greenlanders see their
Building a Destination With Your Community, Not For It — with Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear
Two years ago, wildfire evacuation orders emptied Big Bear Lake of 6,000 residents with nowhere to go. What Travis Scott and his team did next — coordinating free emergency housing through Airbnb.org — became the model the City of Los Angeles used during last year's wildfires.In this episode, Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear, joins us to talk about what it looks like when a destination org
Go Clam Gardening: Samantha Hackett on Learning a Destination
Tofino, British Columbia has 2,500 residents and just over 700,000 visitors a year. Samantha Hackett, the new Executive Director of Tourism Tofino and a 20-year resident, explains how a community of people who chose a hard, remote place to live thinks about balancing resident and visitor needs, and why a Nuu-chah-nulth teaching of respect, shared by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, now sits at the
Tourism Deserves a Seat at the Table with Discover Albany's Jill Delaney
Tourism Deserves a Seat at the TableWhat does it take for a destination organization to become one of the most trusted voices in its community?In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Jill Delaney, President & CEO of Discover Albany, for a conversation about leadership, advocacy, and why destination organizations must do far more than market places.Jill shares how Disc
From Colombia with Love: A Journey of Culture and Connection
Tourism, Sustainability & Colombia’s Diversity with Maria Lacouture (AmCham Colombia)Maria Lacouture, director of AmCham Colombia, explains how the nonprofit strengthens business ties between Colombia and the U.S., including tourism, through work with more than 970 American and Colombian companies. She shares how travel builds cultural understanding and adaptability, clarifies the misconceptio
20 Million Stories: The Human Side of Hospitality with Hilton's Catherine Linskey
What does it really mean to create impact at scale—without losing the human connection?In this episode, Catherine Linskey, Director of Community Impact at Hilton, shares how one of the world’s largest hospitality brands is working toward an ambitious goal: impacting 20 million people while creating 5 million learning and career opportunities by 2030. But behind those numbers are deeply personal st
Work Is My Play: Shauna Stewart on Creativity, Connection & Coming Home to Olympia
Shauna Stewart has returned to lead Experience Olympia & Beyond for the third time — and she'll tell you it's the people who keep pulling her back. In this wide-ranging conversation, Shauna opens up about blending her work as a destination CEO with her practice as an intimacy and relationship coach, why she "hires for delight," how a 2020 health crisis reshaped her identity
A Million Reasons to Grow: Mitch Whitten on Tourism Leadership in a Fast-Changing City
When Mitch Whitten stepped into the role of President & CEO of Visit Fort Worth, he inherited more than a title—he took on the responsibility of guiding one of America's fastest-growing tourism destinations through a transformational moment.In this episode of Learn Tourism's Business Class, Mitch shares how curiosity has shaped his career from newspaper journalist to tourism executiv
Beyond the Beach: Rodrigo Esponda's Vision for the Future of Los Cabos
What does it take to transform a destination from a beautiful place to visit into a place people truly connect with?In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board, to explore how one of North America's most successful tourism destinations is balancing growth, sustainability, and community
The Legacy We Leave: Tourism Cares' Greg Takehara on Purpose, People, and Travel
What kind of legacy are we creating through our work in tourism?In this reflective and thought-provoking conversation, Tourism Cares CEO Greg Takehara shares lessons from more than two decades of advancing responsible tourism and building meaningful connections across the industry. From destination stewardship and sustainable travel to leadership, organizational culture, and the accelerating pace
Building a Destination from Scratch: Wendy Haase-Roberts on Leadership, Community, and the Future of Santa Ana
In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom from Learn Tourism sits down with Wendy Haase-Roberts, President & CEO of Travel Santa Ana, to discuss the unique challenge of creating a destination organization from virtually nothing more than a name and a vision.Wendy shares how Travel Santa Ana has become a connector for businesses, attractions, artists, and community organizations throug
Edward Harris, Visit Williamsburg on Tourism, Sneakers, and America's 250th
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, few destinations are more central to the story than Williamsburg, Virginia.In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Edward Harris, President & CEO of Visit Williamsburg, to discuss leading a destination through a once-in-a-generation moment while preparing for what comes next.Edward shares his un
Changing the Narrative: Peter Gamez on Leadership, Storytelling, and Oakland's Soul
What does it take to transform perceptions, inspire a community, and lead a destination through change?In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Peter Gamez, President & CEO of Visit Oakland, to explore the power of positive storytelling, servant leadership, and collaboration in destination marketing.Growing up in San Francisco as the son of Cuban i
The Leap: How Kristen Reynolds Went from “Not Qualified” to Leading Chicago
What does it take to make career moves that everyone else thinks are impossible?In this episode of Learn Tourism's Business Class podcast, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago, to explore the mindset behind one of the tourism industry's most remarkable leadership journeys. From public relations and lobbying to leading destination organiza
Mavericks Wanted: Wyoming's Domenic Bravo on Leadership, Stewardship, and the Future of Tourism
What does it take to lead tourism in one of America's most iconic destinations?In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Domenic Bravo, Executive Director of the Wyoming Office of Tourism, to explore the evolution of destination leadership, the power of servant leadership, and how technology is reshaping visitor experiences.Domenic shares lessons learned from a career
Conversation with Don Welsh, Destinations International: The Evolution of Tourism
Join us in this insightful episode of the Business Class Podcast as we catch up with Don Welsh, three years after his last appearance. As the President and CEO of Destinations International, Don shares his in-depth perspectives on the evolving challenges and opportunities within the global tourism industry. From responsible travel and political acuity to the importance of accessibility and innovat
Helping Small Businesses Thrive Through Tourism with Rachel Thompson from Visit Greater St. Cloud
Rachel Thompson, Executive Director of Visit Greater St. Cloud, joins Business Class to discuss destination stewardship, supporting small businesses, tourism leadership, and why the future of tourism still depends on human connection.In this inspiring and surprisingly personal conversation, Rachel shares her journey from aspiring firefighter to hospitality leader, the importance of setting ambitio
Barefoot Luxury & Bold Leadership with Andia Ravariere of Nevis
What makes a destination unforgettable?According to Andia Ravariere, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority, it starts with authenticity, community, and the courage to truly understand a place's spirit.In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Andia for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about tourism leadership, sustainable destination development, Caribbean collabor
Front Door to Economic Development | Scott Larson, Visit Central Oregon
Tourism is about far more than attracting visitors. It’s about building stronger communities, creating opportunity, protecting places, and empowering people to connect through meaningful experiences.In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Scott Larson, Executive Director of Visit Central Oregon, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, destination stewardship, tour
More Than Visitors: Tourism for Community Impact with Kireem Swinton
What if tourism wasn’t just about attracting visitors—but about uplifting an entire community?In this episode, Stephen sits down with Kireem Swinton, President & CEO of Visit Baltimore, to explore a powerful shift happening in destination marketing. Drawing from his background as a championship athlete and team leader, Kireem shares how he’s building a culture rooted in trust, empowerment, and
Beyond Heads in Beds: High Point Is Redefines Destination Leadership
What happens when a destination stops measuring success only by hotel stays—and starts measuring community impact?In this episode of Business Class, Stephen sits down with Melody Burnett, President of Visit High Point, to explore how one North Carolina destination is transforming tourism into a powerful force for inclusion, economic development, and community pride.From becoming one of the first C
Tourism Isn’t Broken—We Just Forgot It’s a People Business
Tourism is built on human connection—so why are we struggling to attract, retain, and inspire the very people who make it work?In this candid and often hilarious conversation, Stephen Ekstrom (CEO of Learn Tourism) and Carmen Bold (tourism workforce and capability expert) unpack the real challenges facing the industry—from the overlooked importance of business fundamentals to the global struggle t
Santiago Corrada: The Art and Heart of Tampa's Transformation
Join us for a special four-year reunion episode as host Stephen Ekstrom reconnects with Santiago Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. In this engaging discussion, Santiago shares his visionary approach to marketing a vibrant city, moving beyond conventional tourism to foster sustainable community growth. Discover how Tampa Bay has transformed over the years through innovative campaigns,
You Belong in Every Room: Leadership Lessons from Birmingham’s Dan Williams
What does it take to lead a destination in today’s tourism landscape?In this episode of Business Class, Stephen sits down with Dan Williams, President & CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, for a conversation that goes far beyond marketing and metrics.Dan shares his journey from Cleveland to Columbus to Birmingham—and how a shift in perspective during COVID transform
Paradise With a Purpose: Kara Franker on Stewardship, Technology, and Transformation
In this episode of the Business Class podcast, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Kara Franker, President and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, transformation, and the evolving role of destination organizations.Kara’s path into tourism is anything but traditional. After beginning her career as a criminal prosecutor in Miami, she transitioned in
Stewardship & Storytelling: Joanne Wolnik on Community-Led Tourism in Southwest Ontario
Joanne Wolnik, Executive Director of Southwest Ontario Tourism, joins Stephen Ekstrom on Business Class to explore how small-place pride, thoughtful stewardship, and hands-on experiences can transform tourism into a force for local good. Joanne shares her journey from outdoor-recreation student to destination leader (and part-time horse-farm owner), and explains why “your ordinary is somebody else
Inspiring the Outer Banks: Community-First Tourism with Jeff Schwartzenberg
How do you make tourism work for residents and visitors? Jeff Schwartzenberg, Community Engagement Manager for the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, joins Stephen Ekstrom on Business Class to unpack a community-first approach to destination stewardship. Jeff walks us through the Outer Banks’ long-range tourism management plan, the importance of listening to residents and second-homeowners, and practica
That’s Buffalo for You: Nimble Leadership in Uncertain Times
Three years after their first conversation, Steve reconnects with Patrick Kaler, President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara (now Visit Buffalo), for a candid check-in on leadership in unpredictable times Since their last episode, Buffalo has navigated political rhetoric impacting cross-border travel, a significant drop in Canadian visitation, the loss of 500 hotel rooms, shifting digital metrics
Tourism & Transformation: Jennifer Vigil's Panama City Vision
In this episode, we dive into the captivating journey of Jennifer Vigil, the dynamic President and CEO of Destination Panama City. From her beginnings in New York to her role as a transformative leader in Florida, Jennifer shares her story of resilience, innovation, and the power of tourism to unite communities. Discover how she rebuilt Panama City post-hurricane, her dedication to preserving its
From Waves to Work: Joanna Bear's Inspired Life in Tourism
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Joanna Bear, President and CEO of Visit Laguna Beach, as she shares her passion for travel, hospitality, and community stewardship. In this episode, Joanna discusses her journey from growing up in San Pedro to leading efforts in preserving the natural beauty and vibrant arts scene of Laguna Beach. Discover her insights on building genuine connections with
On Life and Leadership with Visit Orlando's Casandra Matej
In this enlightening episode titled "On Life and Leadership," we sit down with Casandra Matej, the accomplished President and CEO of Visit Orlando. With over three decades of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Casandra shares the pivotal moments and lessons learned throughout her dynamic career. From her early days to leading through challenges such as the global pandemic, sh
A Vibrant New Chapter for Discover Puerto Rico: A Conversation with Jorge L. Pérez
In this episode of Business Class: The Learn Tourism Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom welcomes Jorge L. Pérez, the newly appointed CEO of Discover Puerto Rico. With a career that spans venue management, entertainment, and major cultural events—including overseeing Bad Bunny’s historic 31-night residency—Pérez shares how these experiences shaped his vision for destination marketing.From addressing mis
Real Fun, Real Leadership: Dan Rowe of Visit Panama City Beach
Few destinations embody fun quite like Panama City Beach, and few leaders embody resilience, creativity, and vision quite like Dan Rowe, President & CEO of Visit Panama City Beach. In the latest episode of the Business Class podcast, I had the chance to sit down with Dan to explore his nearly two decades of leadership, his approach to fostering innovation, and what keeps him motivated through
Leading with Trust and Vision: Daniel Kuperschmid on the Business Class Podcast
After three decades in the hotel world, Daniel Kuperschmid took the leap from corporate hospitality to destination leadership—becoming President & CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. In this episode of the Business Class podcast, Daniel shares how trust shapes his leadership style, why leaving Hyatt was his biggest career risk, and how he’s working to showcase San Diego beyond its sunshine
Embrace the Adventure: Lessons in Passion, People, and Change
In this episode, special guest host John Percy (President & CEO, Niagara Falls USA) turns the tables on Learn Tourism founder Stephen Ekstrom. Stephen shares his journey from small-town New Hampshire to global traveler and nonprofit leader, revealing how passion, resilience, and kindness have shaped his career in tourism education. Hear how Stephen turned pandemic setbacks into opportunities,
Mastering the Tourism Terrain: Strategic Growth and Real Relationships with Adam Stoker and Stephen Ekstrom
Adam Stoker, CEO of Brand Revolt and founder of Tourism IQ, joins Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of Learn Tourism, for an open conversation about growth, innovation, and authenticity in the tourism industry. They reflect on their recent journeys, from time spent on a Michigan farm to speaking at industry conferences, and how these experiences shape their approach to leadership and learning.Ad
🎙 From Underdog to Record-Breaker: Mike Testa’s Sacramento Story
🎙 From Underdog to Record-Breaker: Mike Testa’s Sacramento Story In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Mike Testa, CEO of Visit Sacramento, to explore how a city often overlooked on California’s tourism map is rewriting its story. Mike shares how 25 years with the organization—working in every department—prepared him to lead bold, risk-taking initiatives that fueled an
Leadership and Opportunity in Property Management
Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Sebastian Torres Calderon, a true exemplar of resilience and adaptability in the dynamic world of property management. From his humble beginnings in Lima, Peru, to leading a top company in Barcelona, Sebastian shares his transformative journey. Listen as he talks about his early dreams of being a soccer player, his shift to the culinary arts, a
Unexpected Role Reversal: Stephen Ekstrom on Life as a Digital Nomad
In this special episode of Business Class, the mic flips as Cagdas, a PhD candidate researching digital nomadism and global mobility, interviews our usual host, Stephen Ekstrom. The result is a deeply personal, reflective, and often humorous journey into Stephen’s life on the road.What started as a temporary escape from a too-large Florida house turned into a transformative lifestyle spanning thre
Donuts, Detours & DIY: Building Better Tourism Through Education
What do donuts in Amish country, curious bison in Wyoming, and 30,000 learners have in common? A passionate conversation about the evolution of tourism marketing and the power of education. In this episode, Stephen Ekstrom is joined by Chris Cavanaugh, founder of Magellan Strategy Group, to explore a winding career path from brand management to quirky consulting—and the birth of the DIY Tourism Ma
From Cleveland, With Soul: David Gilbert on Leading with Purpose
In this heartfelt and insightful interview, David Gilbert, President and CEO of Destination Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, shares the unique journey that led him to lead two separate but complementary civic organizations. A Cleveland native, David talks about how his deep roots in the community have shaped his approach to tourism and destination leadership.He explores Cleve
Toronto's Superpower: Diversity, Design, and Destination Strategy with Andrew Weir
In this candid and thought-provoking episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom interviews Andrew Weir, President & CEO of Destination Toronto, about the evolution of destination leadership, the power of curiosity, and what it takes to build a world-class visitor economy. Andrew reflects on his accidental entry into tourism, shares wisdom from two decades of experience, and explains how Toront
Exploring the Future of Tourism with Philip Jones
In this episode of Learning Tourism's Business Class podcast, host Stephen shares his experiences waking up by Lake Erie and traveling across the U.S. before introducing the distinguished guest, Philip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer for the Royal Commission for AlUla. With a rich career spanning leadership roles at Visit Dallas and Louisiana's Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism
Hungry, Humble, and Leading the Way: Brad Dean on Tourism, Teamwork & Telling St. Louis' Story
In this episode of Business Class, I sit down with Brad Dean, President & CEO of Explore St. Louis, to explore what it really means to lead with heart in the tourism industry. From his unexpected leap from finance to hospitality, to his people-first leadership philosophy, Brad shares what makes a great team, why humility matters, and how St. Louis is rewriting its narrative with sports, arts,
The Business of Making Memories: NYC Tourism CEO Julie Coker on Leadership, Travel, and Connection
In the fast-paced world of tourism, where destinations evolve and trends shift constantly, the heart of the industry remains unchanged: the ability to evoke emotion, passion, and excitement. "We are in the memory-making business," says Julie Coker, President and CEO of NYC Tourism and Conventions, in a recent interview with Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom.Business Class is brought to y
From Kansas to Oregon: A Journey Through Hospitality and Tourism with Jeff Knapp
In a recent conversation on the Learn Tourism podcast, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Learn Tourism, spoke with Jeff Knapp, President and CEO of Visit Bend, about his journey to Bend, Oregon, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism i
Discover the Authentic Charm of York County, South Carolina
Visit York County, led by CEO Andy Clinton, is a thriving tourism organization situated just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. The area, known for its rapid growth, offers a mix of suburban charm and rural appeal, making it a popular destination for families seeking authentic experiences. Clinton highlights the county's unique blend of local attractions, such as mom-and-pop restaurants and b
Balancing Tourism and Community: How Aspen Pioneers Sustainable Destination Marketing
Eliza Voss, Vice President of Destination Marketing at the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA), provides fascinating insights into the delicate balance of managing Aspen's tourism while maintaining the quality of life for its residents.Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to adva
Exploring Tourism and Community: Interview with John Urdi
Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom sits down with John Urdi, the President and CEO of Mammoth Lakes, California, to delve into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing tourism in a remote yet breathtaking destination. With Urdi’s extensive experience in the tourism sector, listeners can expect an insightful discussion that goes beyond the usual marketing strategies and highli
Embrace Connections: Tico Soto’s Inspiring Journey in Tourism and Personal Growth
In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism Stephen Ekstrom welcomes Tico Soto, the founder of Tourism Tactics by Tico, to discuss his nearly three-decade journey in the tourism industry. With a warm and engaging style, Tico shares his insights on building relationships, navigating challenges, and the importance of passion in tourism.Tico's career began in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in 199
Unpacking User-Generated Content with Professor Bryan Lavin
Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Bryan Lavin, a distinguished professor at Johnson and Wales University's College of Hospitality Management. Bryan shares insights from his dissertation on user-generated content (UGC) marketing campaigns, revealing key motivations and barriers that drive or hinder participation.Discover Bryan's surprising findings about social medi
Destination Ann Arbor: Growing Together and Embracing Sustainability in Tourism – Insights from CEO Sarah Miller and Research Director Tim Crouson
In a recent podcast episode of Business Class, Sarah Miller, President and CEO of Destination Ann Arbor, and Tim Crouson, Director of Research at the same organization, shared insights on their roles, experiences, and the growth of tourism in Washtenaw County with Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom. Both have deep roots in the organization, with Sarah celebrating over two decades of work, guiding i
Navigating Destination Management with Purpose: An Interview with Tina Valdecañas
Navigating Destination Management with Purpose: An Interview with Tina ValdecañasLearn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom interviews Tina Valdecanas, Principal at Clarity of Place, on the latest episode of Business Class. In the recent podcast episode, Tina shared insights on her journey in the tourism industry, her firm’s unique approach to strategic consulting, and the lessons she’s learned from her ex
Tourism: A Complex Force for Good – Insights from Santiago Rodriguez
Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom interviews Santiago Rodriguez, a Ph.D. in tourism and author of The Tourism Practitioner newsletter on the latest episode of Business Class. Rodriguez offers a deep dive into the intricate world of tourism. Originally from Ecuador, Rodriguez has dedicated his career to understanding and improving the tourism sector, focusing on how local stakeholders can attract i
Creative Collisions & Community Impact: with Dan Janes of Madden Media
In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Dan Janes, CEO of Madden Media, to explore the dynamic world of tourism marketing and community building. Dan shares his unconventional journey from angel investing and academia to leading a thriving media agency. Discover how Dan’s military background influences his leadership style, the evolution of Madden Media, and his insights
Creativity and Discipline: Gathan Borden’s Story
Gathan Borden, Client and Insights Relations Manager at Tourism Economics, recounts the challenges he faced growing up as the only black student in advanced classes. He shares how this experience instilled a constant need to prove his worth, a trait that has carried through his career. Gathan draws creativity from his late mother and discipline from his father, both of which are key elements in hi
Sarasota Secrets: Hidden Gems and Future Visions with Erin Duggan
Join us for an engaging conversation with Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, as she shares her journey from local resident to leading tourism professional. In this episode, Erin reveals the unique charm of Sarasota County, dispels old misconceptions about the area's seasonality, and highlights how community engagement drives tourism success. Discover her personal connect
Rural Roots & Tourism Truths: Empowering Communities with Sarah Benoit
Join us in this insightful episode of Business Class as we sit down with Sarah Benoit, co-founder and lead instructor of JB Media Institute in Asheville, North Carolina. With over 22 years of experience in tourism marketing, Sarah shares her journey from big-city travels to falling in love with the hidden gems of rural America. Discover how her passion for connecting with communities and untold st
From Marketing Maven to CEO: Katherine O'Donnell's Journey in Richmond's Tourism Scene
In this episode, we sit down with Katherine O'Donnell, the newly appointed President and CEO of Richmond Region Tourism. Katherine shares her remarkable 22-year journey with the organization, revealing how she transitioned from publications coordinator to the helm of a major destination marketing organization. Discover how her unexpected career path led to a deep passion for tourism, communit
Hand Sanitizer to High-Flying Strategies: Cambria Jones on Navigating Careers and Destinations with Searchwide Global
Rising Through the Ranks: A Journey in Marketing and Experience with Amber JonesIn this episode of the Business Class podcast, Steve interviews Amber Jones from Searchwide Global. Amber discusses her career progression from Marketing Manager to Chief Marketing and Experience Officer. She compares working in an executive search firm to her previous roles in Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs
From Teen Struggles to Tourism Leader: Dawnielle Tehama on Resilience, Regeneration, and Connection
In this powerful episode of Business Class, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Dawnielle Tehama, a Senior Associate Principal at Coraggio Group and an enrolled Klamath Tribal member, who shares her remarkable journey from a homeless teen to a leader in the tourism industry. Dawnielle opens up about the challenges she faced growing up, how her deep connection to her Indigenous roots shaped her car
Newsroom to Tourism Boom: Lisa Bethea’s Blueprint for Destination Success
In this episode, we chat with Lisa Bethea, Director of Destination Services for Visit Frisco. From a broadcast news career to a leading role in tourism, Lisa’s journey is a story of resilience and passion. Join us as we explore her unique path and the lessons she's learned.From Broadcast News to HospitalityLisa’s shift from broadcast news to hospitality was unexpected. A chance visit to Embas
Stewardship in Action: Mat Woods on Leading Sustainable Tourism in Queenstown NZ
In this episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Steve Ekstrom welcomes Mat Woods, the CEO of Destination Queenstown in New Zealand. Mat shares his unexpected journey from running a retail chain specializing in outdoor gear to becoming the CEO of a regional tourism office. He highlights his passion for the outdoors and his commitment to environmental stewardship, detailing his efforts to reduce
Game Changer: How Sports Tourism Fuels Community Growth with John David, Sports ETA
In this episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Steve Ekstrom sits down with John David, President and CEO of Sports ETA, to explore the dynamic intersection of sports tourism and adventure. John shares the rich history of the Sports Events and Tourism Association, detailing its evolution from a small group of 12 sports commissions in 1992 to a robust network of over 700 members today. He expl
Colin Carson: Cultivating Local Pride for Sustainable Tourism
In this episode of the Business Class podcast, host Steve Ekstrom talks with Colin Carson, CEO of Tourism Prince George, a destination nestled in the heart of British Columbia. Colin shares insights into his journey from university to Denmark to China and back to Canada, all while discovering his passion for tourism. They discuss the importance of curiosity in travelers and the role of stewardship
Discovering Tampa Bay: A Treasure Awaits with Santiago Corrada
Just days before the destination marketing community converges on the vibrant landscape of Tampa Bay for the annual Destinations International Conference, Steve Ekstrom revisits his engaging conversation with Santiago Corrada, President & CEO at Visit Tampa Bay. Santiago shares his passion for the industry, his insights on the rebranding journey that transformed Tampa into a treasure waiting t
Beyond Bourbon Street: Navigating New Orleans Tourism with Alice Glenn
Welcome to another episode of the Business Class Podcast with your host, Steve Ekstrom. Today, we delve into the vibrant world of destination marketing with a special guest who knows it intimately. Joining us from the heart of New Orleans is Alice Glenn, Executive Vice President of New Orleans and Company. Alice brings a wealth of experience shaped by her unique journey through politics, fundraisi
Building Networks and Giving Back: A Conversation with Keith Douglas
In this episode of a podcast hosted by Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and Co-founder of the Nonprofit Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org, Keith Douglas from KD & Co Advisors discusses the importance of spontaneous networking, community involvement, and sustainability within the tourism industry. They delve into the successes of Out Professionals, a networking group led by Keith that brings together di
John Marshall: Empowering Local Stakeholders for Sustainable Cultural Tourism
In this episode, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and Co-Founder of Tourism Academy, has a conversation with John Marshall, Founder and Chief Stewardship Officer at NYC Borough Pass. John shares his extensive journey in the tourism industry, the creation and mission of the NYC Borough Pass, and his efforts to promote and preserve New York City's diverse cultural experiences. He discusses the importance o
5 Critical Career Skills Learned While Waiting Tables
The following broadcast is an excerpt of a recent live lecture presented by The Tourism Academy's Stephen Ekstrom to a group of entry-level hospitality students studying hotel and restaurant skills to aid in sustainable tourism development of their communities, which border on UNESCO World Heritage sites. Steve Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of the Tourism Academy, recently shared valuable insig
Work With A Purpose: Cassandra McAuley of MMGY Global
Join us for an insightful conversation between Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Tourism Academy, and Cassandra McAuley, industry expert and managing director at MMGY Global, as they delve into their unique career journeys and the transformative power of storytelling in tourism.In the first segment, Cassandra shares his diverse path from the science center to emergency services and eventually to MMGY Next F
Tourism Culture & Heritage with Richard Peterson
Richard Peterson, President of the U. S. Cultural and Heritage Marketing Council, shares insights on cultural tourism, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, community engagement, and visitor experiences. He discusses the intersection of culture and heritage in tourism, the evolving traits of cultural travelers, and the significance of local engagement and personal connections in enhancing vi
Unveiling Springfield: A Journey in Destination Leadership with Mark Hecquet
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom delves into the dynamic world of destination marketing with a special guest, Mark Hecquet, President & CEO of the Springfield Missouri CVB. Mark shares his remarkable journey from his roots in London to his pivotal role in shaping the tourism landscape of Springfield.With over 16 years of experience, including a tr
Out of This World Maverick: Exploring Creativity with Mary Quinn Ramer of VisitLEX
Join us on this episode of the Business Class Podcast as we dive into the fascinating world of destination marketing with Mary Quinn Ramer, President of VisitLEX, the destination marketing organization in Lexington, Kentucky. Mary Quinn shares her journey into the DMO space, from her beginnings in PR & Communications to her current role leading VisitLEX.Discover how VisitLEX has been at the fo
Stewardship With Doug Price of Visit Colorado Springs
An interview with Doug Price, President and CEO of Visit Colorado Springs, discussing his career journey in the tourism industry, sustainability efforts in Colorado Springs, key trends in tourism, advice for entering the field, and leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tourism, career growth opportunities in the industry, and the responsibility of destination m
Journeys of Authenticity: Insights from Destination DC's CEO, Elliott Ferguson
In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Elliott Ferguson, CEO of Destination DC, as we delve into the profound impact of travel on shaping our perceptions and fostering connections across cultures. Ferguson shares his perspective on the transformative power of travel, emphasizing how it enables us to appreciate both our differences and similarities, ultimately galvanizing a se
Navigating Conservation and Commerce with Domenic Bravo & Stephen Ekstrom
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with the esteemed guest, Domenic Bravo, CEO of Visit Cheyenne, for an insightful conversation on destination marketing and navigating the complexities of environmental conservation and economic impact in a politically charged landscape.Domenic Bravo shares his remarkable background and journey in destination
How well do you know Fred Dixon, the next CEO of Brand USA?
In this podcast episode, Fred Dixon, the newly appointed CEO of Brand USA, shares insights into his journey in the tourism industry and his vision for the future. Growing up in the hospitality business, Fred initially wanted to be a lawyer but found his passion in tourism, particularly in destination marketing organizations (DMOs). He reflects on the meaningful moments and challenges of his career
The Heart of Tourism with Tammy Canavan, CEO of Visit Seattle
Welcome to another episode of the Tourism Academy Podcast! I'm your host, Stephen Ekstrom, the CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy. Today, we have a fascinating interview with Tammy Canavan, President & CEO of Visit Seattle, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) space.In this enlightening conversation, Tammy shares her d
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