TravelPulse Podcast

This week, I welcome back Stephen Scott, founder of Travel Hub 365 and the Odyssey Travel App, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including new developments from ASTA, big cruise industry happenings, and more.  Later, Scott and I dive into the recent billion-dollar deals that have been shaking up the travel industry during both pre-and-post-pandemic times. Scott provides insights into how these mergers and acquisitions impact the industry and what they mean for the travel advisor.  The discussion on billion-dollar deals begins after the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome two guests: Scott Koepf, Chief Strategy Officer for Cruise Planners and Michael Consoli, a record-setting agency owner with Cruise Planners. Together, we discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including new proposals from the government, the growth of the travel advisor career path, and more.  Later, Koepf and Consoli share insights to what's trending in the cruise industry as Wave Season kicks off. From the different sectors of the industry on the rise to the unique deals offering great value this wave Season, Koepf and Consoli give their thoughts on all things cruise. Additionally, they offer their top advice to fellow travel advisors on growing their business in 2026.  The discussion on Wave Season begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Velia Kennedy, owner and CEO of Modern Family Travel. Together, we first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the recent Caribbean airspace closure, Hawaii's cruise tax updates, and much more.  Later, Kennedy and I dive into the top travel trends for the new year. Hear Kennedy's thoughts on what she sees rising up in the world of travel and how it impacts advisors. She also provides tips for advisors to grow this year.  The discussion on 2026 travel trends begins after the 18-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another episode of the TravelPulse Podcast!  In the final episode of 2025, I welcome two special guests from the 40 Under 40 Class of 2025. Ryan Corrigan of Corrigan Luxury Travel Outfitters and Steven Gould, owner of Goulds Travel, co-founder of Luxera Travel, and creator of Travel Advisor Resource Center, join me to discuss the top travel stories from the year and some early thoughts for 2026.  Tune in to hear Corrigan and Gould share insights into how things like the government shutdown, plane crashes, mergers and more impacted their business in 2025. Additionally, the two provide advice to fellow travel advisors on growing their business in 2026.  Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 160 destinations worldwide, including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India, that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on-demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the new campaigns from the DOT, new proposals from the Trump Administration that will impact travel, and more.  Later, I welcome Aurelien Uhrik, Business Development Manager at Air France KLM, to the show to learn more about what KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offers to travelers. Uhrik provides insights into the new US routes that KLM serves, what passengers can expect on board, and more.  The discussion on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines begins after the 9-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 160 destinations worldwide, including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India, that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on-demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Joshua Harrell, Chief Revenue Officer at WorldVia Travel Network, to the show to discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a new record for TSA, a new campaign from the DOT, and more.  Later, Harrell provides insights on how travel advisors can boost their business. Hear his thoughts on what advisors should be doing on social media and why they shouldn't overlook e-mail. Harrell gives his top tips for how travel advisors can improve as we get ready for a new year.  The discussion on boosting your travel business begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 180 destinations worldwide including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign-up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Angela Hughes, founder and CEO of Trips and Ships Luxury Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the issues facing air travel, new cruise ship debuts, and more.  Later, Hughes shares her thoughts on what's trending this holiday travel season, from Thanksgiving through the New Year. Hughes provides insights into which destinations are buzzing, how this year differs from last year, and more. She also shares her top advice to fellow travel advisors.  The discussion on holiday travel begins just before the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Windstar Cruises  This episode is brought to you by Windstar Cruises. Stay connected and inspired with Winds of Change, the official podcast created for travel advisors. Go behind the sails with Windstar’s leaders, crew, and destination experts as they share stories, insider insights, and updates to help you sell the small-ship experience with confidence. Discover what makes Windstar 180 degrees from ordinary and tune in on Spotify or YouTube to listen to Winds of Change. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I'm live at CruiseWorld and the Travvy Awards. I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Jamaica's recovery plan following Hurricane Melissa, the government reducing 10% of flights, and more.  Later, I welcome Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer for Windstar Cruises to discuss top trends in cruising, what makes Windstar Cruises stand out, and how they work with travel advisors. The interview with Janet Bava begins after the 8-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Windstar Cruises  This episode is brought to you by Windstar Cruises. Stay connected and inspired with Winds of Change, the official podcast created for travel advisors. Go behind the sails with Windstar’s leaders, crew, and destination experts as they share stories, insider insights, and updates to help you sell the small-ship experience with confidence. Discover what makes Windstar 180 degrees from ordinary and tune in on Spotify or YouTube to listen to Winds of Change. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Hurricane Melissa, when the government shutdown might end, and more.  Later, Richard Fain, Chairman of the Board for Royal Caribbean Group, joins the podcast to talk about his upcoming book, "Delivering the Wow", which you can order on Amazon. Fain shares stories from his prolific career, like the time Carnival once placed a bid for Royal Caribbean, and so much more.  The interview with Fain begins after the 8-minute mark. You can also watch the video of the interview here.  Today's episode sponsor: Europe Express  Planning remarkable European travel has never been easier with Europe Express. Think of us as your backstage pass: custom FIT travel, private groups, and now, our brand-new loyalty program—Passport to Perks—rewarding you for every booking. Whether it’s Italy’s coastal gems or luxury escapes with Elevated Journeys, we’re here to make sure your clients are impressed—and that you are too. Start building your next itinerary today at EuropeExpress.com. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I'm joined by Taylor Beckett, founder of Luxury Corporate Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on travel, a new safest destinations list, and more.  Later, Beckett provides his tips for how to best navigate the points and miles game. From where to start and how airlines vary, Beckett shares details on how travel advisors can best maximize points and miles.   The discussion on points and miles begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Europe Express  Planning remarkable European travel has never been easier with Europe Express. Think of us as your backstage pass: custom FIT travel, private groups, and now, our brand-new loyalty program—Passport to Perks—rewarding you for every booking. Whether it’s Italy’s coastal gems or luxury escapes with Elevated Journeys, we’re here to make sure your clients are impressed—and that you are too. Start building your next itinerary today at EuropeExpress.com. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Global Travel Collection advisors and stars of the show, “NBC’s 1st Look Presents — Extra Mile Club” Leslie Tillem and Curtis Parris. Together, we first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including how the government shutdown is impacting travel, ASTA's new tool, and more.  Later, Tillem and Parris share their story on how they auditioned for and landed parts on the show "Extra Mile Club." Now entering Season 3, the show features Tillem and Parris competing to design the ultimate celebrity getaway. Both advisors provide details on what it was like filming for the show and what they learned along the way.  The discussion on "Extra Mile Club” begins after the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Europe Express  Planning remarkable European travel has never been easier with Europe Express. Think of us as your backstage pass: custom FIT travel, private groups, and now, our brand-new loyalty program—Passport to Perks—rewarding you for every booking. Whether it’s Italy’s coastal gems or luxury escapes with Elevated Journeys, we’re here to make sure your clients are impressed—and that you are too. Start building your next itinerary today at EuropeExpress.com. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including ASTA's new blacklist, toxic fumes on planes, and more.  Later in the show I interview various executives in the Dominican Republic from the recent DR Social Ambassador FAM to learn more about the newest hot spots in the destination.  Hear from Raquel Reyes, Director of Tourism for the Dominican Republic Tourist Board, Jason Kycek, SVP/Chief Marketing Officer at Casa de Campo, Miriam Hernandez, Director of Sales & Marketing, at W Punta Cana, Laura Santoni, General Manager St. Regis Cap Cana, Mark Fraser, Golf Sales Manager with Puntacana Resorts, and Angel Gonzalez, Director at Scape Park.  The discussion on the Dominican Republic begins at the 10-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Tom Brussow, VP, Strategic Initiatives for Travel Leaders Discovery, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Spirit Airlines debacle, train travel and more.  Later, Brussow shares insights on the top fall travel trends this year. Hear which destinations are buzzing, what people are planning for, and more. Brussow also provides his advice for travel advisors to make this their best fall season.  The discussion on fall travel trends begins at the 19-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Eli Wagner, founder of Wagner Bespoke Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Labor Day weekend travel expectations, a new unlimited cruise pass, and more.  Later, Wagner provides insights into the rising trend of travelers booking last-minute trips and what it means for the travel industry. She also offers tips for fellow travel advisors on how to best handle these requests from clients.   The discussion on last-minute trips begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Jordana Izzo of Travelmation to the show to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including a big move by the Trump administration, Google's new travel tool, and much more.  Later, Izzo shares her thoughts on the state of accessible travel today. She provides insights into how the industry can improve, the role of the travel advisor in accessible travel, which brands are excelling, and more.  The discussion on accessible travel begins after the 18-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction.  Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome two guests: Rebecca Tobin, Managing Editor for Travel Weekly and Jamie Biesiada, Senior Editor for Travel Weekly.  Together, we first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Delta's response to AI pricing practices, dress codes on cruises and more.  Later, Robin and Biesiada share insights into the 2025 Power List. Tune in to hear who came out on top, what the biggest takeaways are, and so much more. The origins of the list date back to 1992, and it's quite interesting to see where some of those top agencies are today. The discussion on the power list begins after the 16-minute mark.   You can learn more about this year's biggest riser on the power list on Travel Weekly's Folo podcast here. Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome two guests: Sarah Kuta, our cruise writer here at TravelPulse, and Jesse Morris, owner of We Book Travel.  We first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including new updates on TSA's future, Europe's entry fee and more.  Later, we dive into the world of cruise line private islands. Kuta shares insights from her recent visit to Carnival's brand new Celebration Key, and Morris provides tips for fellow travel advisors on booking these unique vacation destinations.  The discussion on the cruise line's private islands begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brings its signature style of expedition travel to the rivers of Europe in spring of 2026, with two new voyages aboard Connect—a brand-new ship that blends luxury with responsible exploration. Alongside National Geographic Experts, guests will sail the storybook landscapes of France, Germany, Belgium and beyond, enjoying all-suite accommodations and exclusive access to museums and historical sites. It’s time to see Europe differently with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. Learn more at expeditions.com/europeanrivers.  Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Jackie Friedman, President of Nexion Travel Group, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including new changes from the TSA, overtourism issues, and more.  Later, Friedman shares her thoughts on the state of the travel industry today, what challenges travel advisors are facing this summer, and so much more. She also offers up tips for travel advisors to further grow their business.  The discussion on the state of the industry begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brings its signature style of expedition travel to the rivers of Europe in spring of 2026, with two new voyages aboard Connect—a brand-new ship that blends luxury with responsible exploration. Alongside National Geographic Experts, guests will sail the storybook landscapes of France, Germany, Belgium and beyond, enjoying all-suite accommodations and exclusive access to museums and historical sites. It’s time to see Europe differently with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. Learn more at expeditions.com/europeanrivers.  Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome three wonderful guests to the show: Krysti Konopacky and James Ayres of Two BDMs and a Mic podcast, and Ryan Doncsecz of VIP Vacations.  The four of us first talk about the trending news of the week, including TSA's big rule change, rules on cruise ships, and more.  Later, we dive into the travel advisor-BDM relationship, discussing what makes a successful one, how do you handle it when things aren't going well, and more. Konopacky and Ayres share their perspectives as BDMs for Unique Vacations, and Doncsecz offers insights into how advisors feel.  The discussion on the advisor-BDM relationship begins at the 17-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brings its signature style of expedition travel to the rivers of Europe in spring of 2026, with two new voyages aboard Connect—a brand-new ship that blends luxury with responsible exploration. Alongside National Geographic Experts, guests will sail the storybook landscapes of France, Germany, Belgium and beyond, enjoying all-suite accommodations and exclusive access to museums and historical sites. It’s time to see Europe differently with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. Learn more at expeditions.com/europeanrivers.  Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Kristy Mosolino, owner of Wishes Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the impact President Trump's new bill will have on travel, a new tourist tax in Mexico, and more.  Later, Mosolino and I dive into the rising trend of the micro-cation. She shares insights into why it's growing, where people are heading, and how travel advisors can assist with these types of trips.  The discussion on the micro-cation begins after the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brings its signature style of expedition travel to the rivers of Europe in spring of 2026, with two new voyages aboard Connect—a brand-new ship that blends luxury with responsible exploration. Alongside National Geographic Experts, guests will sail the storybook landscapes of France, Germany, Belgium and beyond, enjoying all-suite accommodations and exclusive access to museums and historical sites. It’s time to see Europe differently with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. Learn more at expeditions.com/europeanrivers.  Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.