The No BS Travel Advisor™️

Marcie Muensterman Facebook Groups Course: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/fb-group-course Podcast11 saves 11% Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness  In this deeply personal episode of the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, Marcie Muensterman pulls back the curtain on something most travel advisors quietly struggle with: loneliness in the independent travel industry. As she celebrates three years of building the Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business Facebook community and her coaching business, Marcie shares the unfiltered story of how imposter syndrome almost stopped her from creating the space that thousands of advisors now call home. She talks openly about building community from scratch, putting people over profit, and why your host agency was never meant to meet your emotional, relational, or growth needs. This episode is not anti-host but it is pro-connection. And, sometimes, you have to create community outside of where you are contracted. Marcie explores why isolation is so common in the travel industry, how the shift to independent contracting changed everything, and why real growth doesn’t come from courses, training and product knowledge. It does come from relationships, peer support, and honest conversations. She explains how to find (or become) a travel advisor bestie, how to create your own mastermind or accountability group, and why leadership starts with being brave enough to reach out first. Packed with real-life stories, from leaving agencies, losing “friendships,” building new ones, moving across the country, and finding connections again,  this episode is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. If you’ve ever felt like a satellite floating through this business by yourself, this episode is your permission slip to build the room you wish existed. 🔑 SEO KEYWORDS travel advisor communitytravel advisor lonelinessindependent travel advisor supporttravel advisor networkingtravel advisor mastermindtravel advisor bestiebuilding a travel advisor communityFacebook groups for travel advisorstravel industry isolationMarcie MuenstermanNo BS Travel Advisor Podcasttravel advisor accountability groupcollaboration in the travel industry 🎧 UPDATED PODCAST CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome + Three Years of Building Community03:12 – Why Maximize Exists and the Standards Behind It06:45 – Imposter Syndrome and Starting Before Feeling Ready11:40 – Why So Many Travel Advisors Feel Lonely16:55 – The Shift to Independent Contracting and Isolation21:30 – Your Host Is Not Your Community (And That’s Not a Diss)27:10 – Finding or Creating a Travel Advisor Bestie32:20 – Peer, Stretch, and Connector Relationships Explained38:05 – Creating Your Own Mastermind or Accountability Group44:10 – Moving, Starting Over, and Building Community from Scratch52:30 – Losing Relationships When You Leave an Agency58:40 – Why Collaboration Beats Competition1:05:15 – Real-Life Examples of Community in Action1:11:45 – Vulnerability, Confidence, and Being Seen1:17:20 – Final Permission Slip: Build the Room Yourself Let’s Talk About Community (The Real Kind)

Marcie Muensterman Use PODCAST11 to save 11% on my Signature Courses _______________________________________________________________________________ Motherhood and Travel Business Ownership: You Don’t Have Certainty Content Note: Mentions pregnancy loss, infertility, and special-needs parenting. If that’s not for you today, skip to the business sections. SummaryIn this No BS episode, Marcie connects parenting and entrepreneurship, especially the parts no one warns you about. From pregnancy loss to raising two very different teens and navigating special-needs realities, she shows how those muscles, including advocacy, logistics, pivots, and patience, are the same ones that make a durable travel business.  You’ll learn why results are lagging indicators, how to operate without certainty, how to turn lived experience into a legitimate niche, what inputs actually move revenue, and why breaks are strategy (not failure). If you’ve felt “behind,” you’ll hear how you’re in the middle, and that’s exactly where growth happens. What you’ll learn (bullets for players/podcast apps): Why are results in both parenting and business lagging indicators How to operate when you never have all the answers “Your niche might choose you”: turning real life into legitimate expertise The difference between preparation and certainty (and why the latter never arrives on time) How to take strategic breaks without burning your business to the ground Links & Resources: Join my free FB group: Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business → [https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness] Programs & courses → [https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses] Say hi on IG → [https://www.instagram.com/nobstraveladvisormarcie/] Share this episode with a travel bestie → [https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/no-bs-travel-advisor-podcast] Podcast11 to save on Signature Courses Chapters / Timestamps Use these as chapter markers in your host platform. They’ll match a ~42–48 min read at a natural pace. 00:00 Trigger warning (loss, infertility, child-lessness, special-needs) 02:00 Dad’s line & thesis: results are lagging indicators 05:00 My two pregnancy losses, and the messy beginning 09:00 Two pregnancies, two different kids, same house—different parents (why comparison is useless) 12:30 Special-needs reality: structure, advocacy, pivots—aka entrepreneurship training 16:30 Coming back to travel, starting over at zero, hiring a coach 20:00 Preparation vs certainty; why “done and dusted” doesn’t exist 24:00 Business parallels: inputs that compound, outputs that lag 28:00 Breaks as a strategy  31:30 Boundaries, people-pleasing, and owning your decisions 35:00 The niche that chooses you (accessible, multi-gen, complex FITs) 38:00 Mantras for the hard days + the “decide now, learn later” CTA 41:00 Close & love note to late bloomers Keywords / Tags: travel advisor coach, travel agent business, entrepreneurship for moms, special-needs parenting, accessible travel niche, group travel coach, travel business mindset, consistency over perfection, inputs vs outputs, business without certainty, parenting and business, burnout recovery, Facebook group marketing for travel agents

Marcie Muensterman Use PODCAST11 to save 11% on my Signature Courses _______________________________________________________________________________ Be Obsessed or Be Overlooked: Authentic, Savage Honesty in the Travel Industry Be Obsessed or you’ll be overlooked…  This one’s for the advisors still tiptoeing around other people’s opinions. I’m done apologizing for telling you to show up more, sell yourself harder, and build the private Facebook group that actually converts. We unpack why “being obsessed” isn't a toxic hustle. Instead, it’s devotion, discipline, and the decision that your business matters more than the people in the cheap seats. We talk about content that actually sells (not checkbox posts), firing tire-kickers in the DMs, blocking the noise, raising your minimums, and getting unapologetically serious about money in 2026. If you needed permission to go all-in, you just got it. Being your most authentic, savagely honest self. You’ll learn: The difference between obsession and burnout, and how to stay in the healthy zone. Why your content feels bland (and how to make it savagely honest + specific). How to stop managing other people’s opinions and start managing your pipeline. What to do with tire-kickers, haters, and “too much” comments. Why your commission split is capping you and the math that proves it. What to post, how often, and why “being annoying” is a myth. Links & resources: Join my free FB group: Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness  First Class Community™ (my Facebook Groups course) + January content calendar. Get the course here: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/fb-group-course  “Judgy-Face” post challenge prompt (mentioned in the episode). Henry Cloud book I referenced regarding “losing your awesome”: Necessary Endings: The Employees, Businesses, and Relationships That All of Us Have to Give Up in Order to Move Forward CTA: Listen, screenshot, tag me, and tell me one thing you’ll obsess over for the next 30 days. Then go block someone who’s stealing your focus. Chapters with Timestamps 00:00 – Cold open: Why “obsession” is the unlock02:05 – First Class Community audits: what you’re doing right… and what’s missing05:18 – Checkbox marketing vs. authentic, sales-driving content08:40 – Obsession ≠ toxic hustle; devotion, discipline, and focus11:22 – Stop apologizing: block, ban, bless, and move on14:10 – You’re the expert (even if you’re new) — bring your past skills16:25 – Social media reality: pick one platform and go all-in19:03 – Share your face, tell the truth, and quit over-editing22:11 – Fire the tire-kickers (scripts + boundaries)25:36 – Post with a spine: unpopular opinions, judgy-face challenge28:14 – Haters as content fuel; take a stance (airlines, resorts, etc.)31:02 – Money talk: minimum spends, newsletters, and frequency that actually works34:15 – Commission splits: why 60/40 will strangle your income37:08 – Hosts, community, and creating your own support system39:30 – Your 2026 mandate: obsess over the work that moves money41:20 – Wrap: pick your obsession and execute (then block the rest) SEO Keywords travel advisor coaching, travel agent marketing, private Facebook group strategy, Facebook groups for travel advisors, First Class Community course, travel advisor content ideas, travel advisor mindset, sales mindset for travel agents, how to fire tire kickers, niche marketing for travel agents, commission split 90/10 vs 60/40, travel host agency advice, how often to post in Facebook groups, travel advisor fees, raise minimum spend travel agent, travel advisor email newsletter frequency, authentic marketing for travel agents, blocking haters in business, obsession vs burnout, build a profitable travel business

Marcie Muensterman Use PODCAST11 to save 11% on my Signature Courses _______________________________________________________________________________ Feeling “busy” but still not making the money you want? In this episode, Marcie, your No BS Travel Advisor Coach, calls out the real reason your travel business feels chaotic: mismanaged time, weak workflows, and boundaries that don’t stick. We’re talking about the habits that quietly drain your revenue—quoting in DMs, instant replies, random trainings, pointless events, overthinking content, and saying yes to things with zero ROI—and the CEO-level shifts that actually create freedom: calendar control, alignment, automation, and repeatable systems. This is the episode for travel advisors who want to grow faster in 2026 without burnout, and who are ready to stop treating their time like it’s optional. In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why “busy” is not a personality trait… it’s usually a profit problem The biggest daily time-wasters travel advisors normalize (and why it keeps you broke) How to stop training clients to expect you 24/7 (and still deliver great service) What “alignment” really means (hint: not fonts and brand colors) Why you don’t need more trainings, events, or FAM trips—you need a plan How workflows + systems create consistency, confidence, and better clients Why your business can’t run on “random tasks” and vibes (sorry, it just can’t) The CEO move that changes everything: audit your time and protect your best hours Connect with Mary Beth Lynn: https://www.assistantsthatwork.com/  Join her Travel Advisor Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lifechangingassistants    Real Talk: The Biggest Time Wasters for Travel Advisors If you’re doing these regularly, you’re not “busy”… you’re bleeding time: Answering texts, DMs, calls, and emails at all hours Checking email nonstop instead of batching Rewriting the same replies instead of using templates Quoting trips in DMs for unqualified leads Saying yes to last-minute “quick checks” (nothing is quick) Overthinking content, Canva-ing everything to death, and posting inconsistently Going to conferences, supplier lunches, and trainings with no ROI plan Multi-tasking constantly and finishing nothing Action Step (Do This This Week) Audit your time for 2 weeks: Write down what you do each day Label each activity as: Revenue / Reputation / Relationships / or Bullshit Then choose one change to implement (and yes—turn on an out-of-office if needed) Mentioned in This Episode Mary Beth Lynn’s “Gold Couch Series” (alignment + CEO foundations) coming in Q1 2026. If You Loved This Episode… Leave a 5-star review (it tells me it’s worth keeping these solo episodes going) Share it with a travel advisor friend who’s constantly “busy” and constantly stressed Want systems, boundaries, and a real sales process? Check out my programs inside my world (you know where to find me). Save 11% using code PODCAST on all my Signature Courses: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses    SEO Keywords (for search + platforms) travel advisor time management, travel advisor workflows, travel advisor systems, travel agent boundaries, travel advisor burnout, travel agent productivity, travel business alignment, travel advisor CEO mindset, stop quoting in DMs, travel agent automation, travel advisor marketing consistency, travel advisor social media burnout, travel advisor ROI, travel agent conferences worth it, travel advisor client boundaries, 20 hour workweek travel advisor

Marcie Muensterman Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business: Building a Profitable TA Career: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness Use PODCAST11 to save 11% on my Signature Courses _______________________________________________________________________________ Show Notes Mindset, abundance, and self-trust aren’t “nice to have” — they’re the foundation of a sustainable travel advisor business. In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, Marcie gets deeply personal about burnout, imposter syndrome, and the mindset shifts that allowed her to rebuild her business from the inside out. After years of high sales, long hours, and constant pressure, Marcie realized that success without abundance leads straight to burnout. She shares how shifting away from scarcity, competition, and self-punishment helped her create a six-figure commission business — while working fewer hours and selling less gross travel than ever before. This episode is for travel advisors who are building, rebuilding, or pivoting and want to: • Stop comparing themselves to others • Release imposter syndrome • Set boundaries without guilt • Trust themselves again • Build a business that fits their real life If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but still exhausted, this conversation will hit home. You’ll learn: • Why high sales don’t equal success • How an abundance mindset actually works (without toxic positivity) • Why comparison creates decision paralysis • How to set boundaries without guilt • Why belief matters more than pretending • How Marcie built six-figure commissions working fewer hours Marcie shares real stories from her career, including how scarcity thinking, competition, and imposter syndrome impacted her confidence — and how an abundance mindset helped her rebuild with clarity, boundaries, and self-trust. This lesson encourages travel advisors to define success on their own terms, take action despite fear, and stop measuring their worth by sales alone.   CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS (Cleaned for Platforms) 00:00 – Introduction & Why Mindset Matters04:58 – Navigating Criticism & Building Confidence09:25 – Scarcity vs Abundance Mindset14:06 – Client Interactions & Energy18:43 – Self-Belief & Redefining Success24:11 – Letting Go of Old Definitions of Success29:00 – Affirmations & Rewiring Belief34:39 – Abundance Creates Opportunity38:32 – Boundaries, Rest & Self-Care42:54 – Affirmations for Self-Worth & Confidence   Mindset is the foundation of long-term entrepreneurial success Imposter syndrome thrives when self-trust is missing Sales alone don’t define success or fulfillment An abundance mindset reduces fear and comparison Boundaries protect mental health and creativity Comparison leads to hesitation and decision paralysis Action creates clarity, not the other way around Affirmations help rewire limiting beliefs Rest is essential, not optional You are deserving of success, peace, and joy travel advisor mindset abundance mindset for travel advisors imposter syndrome travel advisor burnout in the travel industry travel advisor confidence mindset coaching for travel agents building a travel advisor business redefining success as a travel advisor boundaries for travel advisors self-trust in entrepreneurship mindset for women entrepreneurs independent contractor travel advisor

Marcie Muensterman Links: Cookie Shop in Amsterdam: https://vanstapele.com/en/home/  Dive into niching in Commission with a Comma: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/commission-with-a-comma  Learn my Help and Release method in Propose to Close: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/propose-to-close-course  Use PODCAST11 to save 11% on my Signature Courses _______________________________________________________________________________ If you’ve ever told someone when they ask you what you do as a travel agent that you “sell everything,” this episode is your official intervention. I’m walking you through the real definition of niching, why generalists burn out faster than someone who has focus and how I went from booking 239 destination weddings (yes, really) to becoming an Italy-obsessed luxury specialist who wakes up excited to do this work again. Let’s get down to the business of niching: How to know when you're ready to niche (hint: your stomach already knows). • Why “Europe specialist,” “groups,” and “luxury” are NOT niches. • How niching makes you referable, profitable, and peaceful instead of panicked. • The cookie shop in Amsterdam that sells ONE cookie and has a line down the damn street and what that teaches you about becoming KNOWN. • How I phased out destination weddings over three years without tanking my income (and how YOU can pivot without blowing up your business). • The “help and release” method and how to stop apologizing for evolving as a business owner. • Why passion + clarity = visibility, better clients, and a way more sustainable business. • A full “niche intersection” writing exercise to help you figure out what the hell you actually WANT to sell. This episode is for the advisor who’s ready to stop chasing every client, every destination, every lead — and start building a business they actually f*cking love. _______________________________________________________________________________ Other links: Italian Tourist Board Training: https://www.italia.it/en  Ultimate Jet Vacations (Italy webinars + luxury vendor trainings): https://www.ultimatejetvacations.com/ Your Travel Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness  _______________________________________________________________________________ EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 – Welcome Back / Who I Am Now Recovering people-pleaser, burnout survivor, Italy-obsessed CEO era unlocked. 02:20 – Why “I Sell Everything” Is a Red Flag And why it’s wasting your time, money, energy, and sanity. 06:11 – The Gut Check: How You Know You’re Ready to Niche Spoiler: your stomach has been screaming at you for years. 10:40 – What Niching Actually Means in the Travel Industry And why 90% of advisors are completely misunderstanding it. 14:55 – The Amsterdam Cookie Shop That Proves the Point One cookie. Line out the door. Lesson delivered. 20:02 – Pivoting Without Panic: My 3-Year Exit from Destination Weddings 239 weddings → zero. What changed, why it mattered, and how income DIDN’T collapse. 29:14 – My Love Story With Italy How one trip flipped the switch and confirmed my passion-led niche. 36:22 – Passion as a Sales Strategy If you can talk about it for three hours without breathing, THAT’S your niche. 40:18 – How to Write Your Niche Intersection The 3-column activity that will change your business. 46:40 – Real Niche Examples (Italy, Caribbean, USA, Destination Weddings) Steal these structures and plug in your niche. 52:10 – Scarcity Mindset, Imposter Syndrome & Why You’re Freaking Out Fear is loud, but passion is louder. 58:33 – The Power of Saying “My Business Model Has Shifted” A masterclass in confident communication. 1:04:20 – Why Passion Beats Hustle Every Single Time And why generalists burn out. 1:08:55 – Final Pep Talk + My Ask Downloads are down. Your girl needs five-star reviews to live. _______________________________________________________________________________ SEO Keywords: travel advisor niche, how to niche travel business, travel agent burnout, luxury travel advisor tips, destination wedding burnout, Italy travel specialist, travel advisor marketing, how to pick a niche, travel advisor mindset, CEO travel advisor, luxury Italy planner, boutique travel planning, travel advisor boundaries, help and release method, travel advisor pivoting

Marcie Muensterman Marcie Muensterman -  https://www.facebook.com/MarcieMuenstermanPropose to Close Course - https://www.facebook.com/groups/proposetoclosewithmarciemuensterman/Maximize Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness/ _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Show Notes: Burnout in the travel industry is not a badge of honor, and it’s definitely not a business model. In this raw solo episode, Marcie shares the unfiltered story of how she went from working 24/7 as a travel advisor, answering emails from the bathroom with the flu, working through holidays, skipping maternity leave, and treating her own family like an interruption - to burning out so hard she left the industry for three years. When she came back in 2018, she refused to rebuild the same travel agent monster. Instead, she rebuilt her business around boundaries, calendar control, and a 20-hour workweek that actually supports her life as a mom, caregiver, and CEO. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why “hustle culture” in the travel industry is outdated and harmful. The one regret she has about early motherhood (and why it shapes her boundaries now). How she decided which rules to make for her business—and how to stick to them. Why she no longer works nights, weekends, or big holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. How and why she refuses to book clients over key dates like family birthdays and her annual Christmas beach trip. Why she doesn’t travel when her clients travel and how she plans her year nearly 12 months in advance. How office hours, appointment-only consults, and clear expectations changed her client relationships. Why aligned clients respect boundaries (and misaligned ones fire themselves). How you can start moving toward a six-figure, 20-hour-per-week travel business, slow and steady. If you’ve ever thought, “I love being a travel advisor, but I can’t keep living like this,” this episode is your blueprint for doing it differently. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned Propose to Close™ – my step-by-step consult + sales framework for travel advisors: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/propose-to-close-course 👉 Use code PODCAST for 11% off Propose to Close™ First Class Community™ – my Facebook Group course that turns your community into a client pipeline: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/fb-group-course  👉 Use code PODCAST for 11% off First Class Community™ Episode Timestamps / Chapters Use these for show notes + YouTube description: 00:00 – Welcome + Why This Episode Matters Setting the tone: no fluff, no fake positivity, no glorified burnout. 03:30 – The Season of 24/7 Hustle Nights, weekends, no maternity leave, panic attacks under the desk, and treating family like an interruption. 09:15 – The Moment Everything Broke Burning out so hard you left the industry for three years and what that actually looked like. 13:40 – Coming Back to Travel With New Non-Negotiables Therapy, mindset work, support, and deciding you won’t build the same monster twice. 18:30 – The One Regret: Early Motherhood in Hustle Mode Working through grief, daycare guilt, and redefining what “success” means. 23:00 – Realizing 24/7 Availability Is NOT Professionalism Panic attacks, answering emails from the bathroom, and recognizing “being accessible” isn’t the flex you thought it was. 27:45 – You’re a 1099, Not an Employee Why hosts don’t own your time, your calendar, or your boundaries. 32:10 – Learning to Say No (Kids’ Birthday Parties, PTA, and Beyond) Practicing boundaries in your personal life first so you can carry them into your business. 38:20 – Setting Rules for Your Business (And Owning Them) What you don’t do anymore: instant replies, quoting in DMs, nights, weekends, and apologizing for policies. 44:00 – Office Hours as a Non-Negotiable Designing your days, working 20-ish hours, and refusing to bully yourself with endless to-do lists. 50:00 – Holidays, Birthdays & Blocking Life First Why you don’t work over Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family birthdays—and you don’t book travel over your own key dates. 55:30 – Not Traveling When Your Clients Travel Planning your own trips a year in advance so you’re not a crisis manager on your vacation. 1:00:00 – The 20-Hour Workweek Mindset Why you don’t believe in the 40-hour week for travel advisors and how marketing + boundaries replace “more hours.” 1:06:30 – Eat That Frog & Managing Your Day Tackling the big tasks first, using reminders, and not letting social/media distract you from actual work. 1:13:00 – When You DO Break Your Own Rules (On Purpose) Deciding consciously when to respond after hours and taking responsibility for your own boundary breaks. 1:18:00 – Planning a Year in Advance Blocking out travel, holidays, and time off so you’re not in constant reaction mode. 1:24:00 – Clients Don’t Need Unlimited Access—They Need Clear Expectations Resetting expectations with old clients and why aligned clients stay. 1:30:00 – Why You Don’t Do Conferences, Ear-Splitting Noise, or Old-School Schmoozing Building relationships your way, with BDMs and vendors who respect you. 1:35:00 – You Can Make Six Figures in 20 Hours a Week Letting go of the “more clients, more hours” lie and choosing boundaries instead of burnout. 1:40:00 – Final Pep Talk: Redefine Success & Block Your Calendar Encouragement to start now, not on January 1st, and design the damn business you actually want.   travel advisor burnout travel agent burnout travel advisor boundaries travel agent boundaries 20 hour workweek travel advisor 20 hour work week travel agent work life balance for travel advisors travel advisor hustle culture travel advisor coaching travel agent business tips how to set boundaries with clients travel advisor office hours stop working 24/7 as a travel agent

Marcie Muensterman Marcie Muensterman -  https://www.facebook.com/MarcieMuenstermanPropose to Close Course - https://www.facebook.com/groups/proposetoclosewithmarciemuensterman/Maximize Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness/ _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Show Notes How to Leave Your Host Guide: https://marciemuensterman.mykajabi.com/offers/Q8QLQSFJ/checkout  Join Maximize Your Travel Advisor Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness  In this solo episode of the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, Marcie goes all in on a topic most host owners hope you never fully understand: what actually is and is NOT your travel agency owner’s business when you’re a 1099 independent contractor. If you’ve ever: Called your owner “boss” Felt nervous to share an idea in your host group Overshared how you run your business Thought you “owed” two weeks’ notice to leave …this episode is your wake-up call. Marcie shares her own journey from straight-A, gold-star, Dairy Queen rule-follower to overachieving travel advisor who trained for free, ran social for free, and bent over backwards to be the “favorite” in a host environment where she was never actually an employee. She unpacks how that people-pleasing, “don’t rock the boat” conditioning bleeds into the travel industry, keeping advisors small, scared, and dependent. Inside the episode, you’ll hear: The difference between wanting support and mentorship vs. wanting supervision Why your only real “boss” is your client, not your host The legal and practical line between a W-2 employee and a W-9 independent contractor What your host can reasonably require (IC agreement, commission tracking, basic policies) And what is absolutely none of their fucking business: Your CRM, workflows, systems, automations, templates Your website, email list, social media, funnels, and lead magnets Your fees—what you charge, when you charge, who you charge Your networking, BDM relationships, fams, and community marketing Marcie also breaks down why you do NOT have to “give notice” to a host, how to transition quietly without drama, and why any owner who wants complete control (over your trainings, fam photos, content, and even which coaches you listen to) needs to switch to a W-2 model and put people on payroll. If you’re feeling stuck, codependent, or low-key terrified to leave a misaligned agency, this episode will remind you: You’re the CEO. You pay for your independence. And most of what you’re building is none of their fucking business. Chapters / Timestamps 00:01 – When You’re in Marcie’s DMs, It’s Probably Time to Go Gut feelings, toxicity, and why deep DMs about leaving are the final sign. 02:10 – You Signed a W-9, Not a Job Offer Jumping in without vetting, not reading the fine print, and what it really means to be a 1099 IC. 04:20 – Your Only Boss Is Your Client Wanting “family,” belonging, and why you don’t owe performance energy to your host. 06:10 – Support vs. Supervision: They Are Not Your Boss Meetings, trainings, fam expectations and the difference between guidance and micromanagement. 08:30 – Gold-Star Girl: Marcie’s People-Pleaser Origin Story Latin exam 50¢, Dairy Queen, loving rules, and being obsessed with being the best. 14:10 – Challenging the Status Quo & 24/7 Hustle Culture Indoctrination, “falling in line,” and why the 24/7 grind model is bullshit. 18:40 – You Are a Business: LLC, E&O, EIN & Independence Why your own structures matter even under a host; starting scared, confused, and learning as you go. 20:55 – Who Are You Overachieving For? Clients vs. owners, designing your own life, and the “who are you showing up for?” gut check. 23:20 – W-2 vs W-9: Where Control Crosses the Line What hosts can require, what they can’t, and why control + risk don’t mix. 25:40 – What Is None of Their Business (CRM, Systems, Fees) Internal operations, separate CRM, website, workflows, seller of travel, and fee freedom. 28:35 – Stop Telling Them Everything Fam photos, social media access, lead magnets, networking leads—why oversharing gives away your power. 30:40 – BDMs, Fams & Industry Relationships: You Don’t Need a Gatekeeper The “you’re not allowed to talk to your BDM” myth and reclaiming your industry connections. 33:05 – You Don’t Have to Give Notice to a Host Ending contracts vs. quitting jobs, dual-hosting quietly, and why “notice” is a corporate concept. 36:00 – Some Hosts Melt Down: How to Protect Yourself Petty reactions, cut-off access, delayed commissions, and why you leave quietly and clean. 39:05 – How to Actually Say ‘I’m Done’ (Without a 14-Paragraph Goodbye) Simple offboarding language, no emotional essays, and no exit interview required. 41:40 – If They Want Control, They Need a W-2 Model Controlling training, social, fam content, and even which coaches you follow—why that screams W-2. 44:00 – Stop Oversharing & Start Acting Like a CEO Mistakes vs autonomy, finding mentors with no stake, and making friends outside your host bubble. 46:20 – Your IP, Your Independence, Your CEO Era Not signing away your creations, paying for independence via splits/fees, and standing Wonder Woman-style in your own business. 49:10 – Final Pep Talk: They’re Not Your Boss (And Please Stop Calling Them That) IC laws, covering your own ass, DM’ing Marcie if you’re in a toxic situation, and remembering most of your business is none of their fucking business. SEO Keywords & Phrases travel advisor independent contractor 1099 vs W2 travel agent host agency red flags toxic host travel agency leaving your host agency do travel agents have to give notice travel advisor IC rights travel agent W9 vs W2 oversharing with host agency travel advisor boundaries with host travel agency owner vs host agency how to end IC agreement travel agent Marcie Muensterman No BS Travel Advisor host agency control vs independence travel advisor business to business relationship how to leave a toxic travel agency quietly

Marcie Muensterman Marcie Muensterman -  https://www.facebook.com/MarcieMuenstermanPropose to Close Course - https://www.facebook.com/groups/proposetoclosewithmarciemuensterman/Maximize Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness/ _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ In this solo episode of the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, Marcie dives deep into “The F Word” — Fees — and why charging them is one of the most transformative decisions a travel advisor can make. She shares her 18-year journey from working for free and burning out to stepping into CEO confidence, implementing a fee-based model, and reclaiming her time, sanity, and income. Marcie breaks down the fear advisors have around charging fees, how the pandemic pushed her into finally doing it, and why aligned clients gladly pay for expertise. She covers the mindset shift required to stop being a “free quote machine,” how fees instantly create better boundaries, and the exact moment she said “I’m done” and charged her first $100. This episode is packed with real talk on client relationships, mindset, boundaries, sales psychology, and the business foundation every advisor needs if they want profit, confidence, and a travel business that doesn’t burn them alive. If you’re tired of tire kickers, ghosting, DM quotes, and working 24/7 for nothing, this is required listening. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why fees are the real F word in the travel industry — and why advisors fear them • The difference between service-based travel advisors and “free quote machines” • How burnout in 2015 led Marcie to her breaking point • The moment the pandemic forced her hand and she finally charged her first fee • How fees transformed her sanity, schedule, and income • Why aligned clients happily pay for professional service • How to stop attracting people who ghost, DM you for quotes, or waste your time • How to set up your fee agreement so you’re covered legally and financially • Why fees instantly create boundaries, clarity, and better relationships • When to charge, who to charge, and why consistency matters • How to talk about your fee confidently and professionally • Why you don’t need 10 years of experience to charge — you need belief • Why the fee model is the fastest way to reduce workload and increase income • How Marcie collected over $20,000 in fees in one year — and why she’ll never go back • How to “help and release” clients who don’t want to pay • Why charging fees turns you into the CEO of your business, not the help Major Takeaways  Charging fees was one of the best damn decisions of Marcie’s career • Fees create boundaries, clarity, and better client relationships • An aligned client values your time and pays your fee without flinching • You do NOT need to “earn” the right to charge — you already bring experience • Free agents will always exist — but you are not free • The moment you charge a fee, your entire energy shifts to CEO mode • Fees eliminate ghosting, tire kickers, and “just curious” DMs • Charging fees cut Marcie’s workload in half • Fees generated $20K+ in additional income and gave her her life back • Your worth is non-negotiable — you’re allowed to charge from day one Powerful Quotes “Charging fees was one of the best damn decisions I ever made for my business.” • “My aligned client is willing to pay — no matter what.” • “I’m not free, and I’m okay with that.” • “If $200 is going to make you combust—you’re not my client.” • “You are not Expedia. You are not AAA. You are a service-based travel advisor.” • “You’ve been doing service work your entire life — don’t dismiss it now.” • “Fees filter out the bullshit so you can finally breathe.”   Keywords: travel advisor fees, charging fees travel industry, travel advisor burnout, travel advisor boundaries, fee-based model, travel agent business growth, aligned clients, travel advisor mindset, travel advisor income, how to charge fees as a travel advisor, travel advisor coaching, DM tire kickers, service-based travel advisor EPISODE CHAPTERS (TIME-STAMPED) 00:00 — Welcome & Why This Solo Episode Exists Marcie introduces the topic and explains why the “F word” (fees) is such a big deal in the travel advisor world. 00:39 — The DM Problem: Quotes, Tire Kickers & Working for Free Why advisors attract the wrong clients and how giving free quotes fuels burnout. 03:40 — Burnout, Boundaries & the Years She Quit Travel How working for free and having zero boundaries forced Marcie out of the industry in 2015. 08:40 — Coming Back to Travel & Still Not Charging Fees Her return in 2018, better boundaries… but still fee-free. 10:47 — The 2020 Breakdown: Losing $50K & Hitting Her Limit The moment COVID pushed her over the edge and she drew the line in the sand. 13:10 — Charging Her First Fee & the Immediate Shift The first $100 fee she ever charged — and how it changed everything. 15:30 — The Fee Model Today: Who Pays, When, and Why How she decides who gets charged and how boundaries play into it. 20:40 — Losing Clients (and Why Some Should Go Anyway) Not everyone will pay your fee — and that’s a good thing. 22:52 — The “Help & Release” Method How to let clients go with kindness and clarity. 26:10 — Building Your Fee Agreement: What It MUST Include The breakdown of the professional, legally sound agreement every advisor needs. 34:00 — Florida Seller of Travel Law: What You Actually Need Clearing up major myths around SOTs and fees. 39:00 — How to Collect Fees (Stripe, Wave, Systems) The operational setup that keeps your money safe and flowing. 43:05 — Where to Talk About Fees & How to Say It How to message your fee publicly and in DMs without scaring off the right clients. 46:10 — How to Price Your Fees: Per Person, Per Trip, Complexity Her exact minimums and how they evolved. 51:30 — You Deserve to Charge (Mindset Work) The internal belief work that makes fee charging sustainable. 55:10 — Affirmations That Rewire Your CEO Brain Mantras that help advisors step into confidence and clarity. 57:45 — The Massive Business Impact: $20K Fees, Time Back, Better Clients How fees changed her business, workflow, and life. 1:01:10 — Final Message: Start Charging Today Encouragement, tough love, and a call to action for every advisor listening.

Marcie Muensterman Ananda Spa - https://www.anandaspa.com/Score Mentorship - https://www.score.org/Qwoted - https://www.qwoted.com/Studio Roam Travel Website - https://studioroamtravel.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioroamtravel _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Summary In the last episode of Season 2 of The No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, host Marcie Muensterman sits down with Elena Rodriguez, founder of Studio Roam (formerly Atlas & Aura), a new travel advisor, single mom by choice, and sustainability-driven entrepreneur who’s rewriting what success looks like in the travel industry. Elena opens up about her journey from the fashion world to full-time travel advising, navigating motherhood, building systems from scratch, and choosing purpose over perfection. She shares how yoga, meditation, and manifestation keep her grounded while running both a corporate job and her own travel business, and why she believes sustainability and wellness must be part of every client’s itinerary. Marcie and Elena dive into everything from charging fees and setting boundaries to manifesting the business you want, while keeping it real about burnout, motherhood, and building a village. This episode is packed with practical, heart-centered advice for any travel advisor ready to align their business with who they really are. _____________________________________________________________ 💡 Takeaways Elena’s story is proof that you can build a powerful travel business even in the middle of life’s chaos. She became a single mom by choice, balancing motherhood, a corporate job, and her new travel agency, Studio Roam. Her fashion industry background taught her the art of precision, detail, and brand storytelling, skills she now applies to travel design. Elena believes sustainability and wellness aren’t just buzzwords, they’re guiding values that shape how clients experience the world. She’s learned to set boundaries early, charge confidently, and prioritize aligned clients over “freebie” requests. Through manifestation and action, she’s proving that mindset isn’t fluff, it’s fuel. Her journey represents the next generation of travel advisors: authentic, strategic, and rooted in service. _____________________________________________________________ 🕒 Chapters Time 00:00 Intro: Resilience, Self-Trust, and Starting Fresh 02:45 Meet Elena Rodriguez — Founder of Studio Roam 05:30 Becoming a Single Mom by Choice 08:40 From Fashion to Travel: The Transferable Skills 12:10 Balancing Motherhood, Work, and Entrepreneurship 16:20 Boundaries & Burnout: Lessons from a Ghosting Client 20:15 Charging Fees and Building Confidence Early 25:30 Sustainability and Wellness in Family Travel 31:00 The Power of Manifestation + Action 36:10 Coaching and Mentorship: Why Guidance Matters 40:40 The Future of Studio Roam: Freedom, Beauty, and Balance 44:00 Elena’s Unpopular Opinion: Manifestation Isn’t Woo-Woo, It’s Work 48:30 3 Free Things Every Travel Advisor Should Do Right Now 52:00 Closing: Owning Your Story and Standing in Your Power   Keywords travel advisor, single mom, motherhood, resilience, manifestation, sustainable travel, work-life balance, travel business, wellness travel, yoga, meditation, fashion industry, boundaries, charging fees, client experience, travel consulting, mentorship, luxury travel, wellness retreats, sustainability, family travel, entrepreneurship, manifestation, new advisor, business mindset

Marcie Muensterman Website | www.theunfilteredtraveler.com TT: @theunfilteredtraveler _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Episode Summary: In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode of The No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, host Marcie Muensterman sits down with Rachel McDowell, a retired Army veteran, mom of twins, and the founder of The Unfiltered Traveler. Rachel shares how she went from 24 years of military structure to building a travel business grounded in freedom, balance, and joy. She opens up about managing the transition from structured sales to endless options, setting boundaries, and redefining success as a travel advisor. Together, Marcie and Rachel unpack what it means to run a travel business that supports your real life, not consumes it. They dive into Rachel’s women’s adventure groups (including her sold-out Machu Picchu trip!), working alongside her husband on big-game and fishing travel, and her family’s plans to relocate to Portugal for a slower lifestyle. This episode is packed with real talk about motherhood, mindset, money, and the travel industry, showing advisors that finding what you love to sell is what creates freedom. Top Takeaways: Rachel balances motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship with systems and boundaries. Transitioning from the military to travel gave her purpose and flexibility. She believes success should feel good — not just look good on paper. Narrowing your niche (like women’s adventure travel) can reignite passion and profit. Her Machu Picchu group trip sold out quickly by focusing on community over commission. Mindset shifts are essential for better client engagement and business longevity. Setting clear boundaries makes you a stronger, happier advisor. Working with family brings unique challenges but powerful results. Moving abroad can align your business with your desired lifestyle. “It’s okay if not every booking makes money — some build connection and loyalty.”  Keywords (SEO) travel, adventure, women, military, family, business, coaching, Machu Picchu, community, work-life balance, mindset, client engagement, travel industry, travel advisor, travel agents, business strategies, lifestyle change, entrepreneurship, Portugal, family business, women travelers, group travel, travel tips, freedom lifestyle, travel coaching Chapters / Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Rachel McDowell02:44 – Balancing Family and Business05:21 – From Military to Travel Industry08:15 – Sales Lessons: Recruiting vs. Selling Travel10:59 – Finding Her Niche: Adventure & Europe FIT13:47 – Planning Women’s Adventure Trips16:35 – Behind the Scenes of the Machu Picchu Trip19:17 – Preparing Clients for Adventure Travel22:06 – Building Community in Group Travel24:47 – Shifting to True Work-Life Balance27:23 – Lessons from the Travel Industry30:53 – Mindset Shifts & Client Engagement32:24 – Boundaries and Better Relationships33:51 – Building Connection-Based Client Loyalty35:44 – Creating a Supportive Client Network37:19 – Navigating Business with Family42:43 – The Decision to Move to Portugal45:43 – Adjusting to a Slower, More Intentional Lifestyle49:31 – Practical Tips for Travel Agents55:58 – Rachel’s Unpopular Opinion on Profit and Passion Featured Topics: Military discipline meets entrepreneurship Parenting twins while running a travel business Women’s group travel: how to plan, sell, and lead ADHD, anxiety, and systems that work Family business dynamics in travel The reality of work-life balance for travel advisors How Portugal represents the next evolution of freedom Episode Quote: “Military taught me structure. Motherhood taught me flexibility. Travel gave me freedom.” — Rachel McDowell

Marcie Muensterman _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ What does it really take to build a profitable travel business when your plate is already overflowing? In this episode, I sit down with April Peter, founder of The Vacay Way LLC, who hit $ 600,000 in sales in her very first year as a travel advisor, all while being a full-time RN, homeschooling her daughter, caring for her mom, and managing ADHD and anxiety. April shares the messy, real, and powerful story of how she went from struggling with imposter syndrome to becoming a confident CEO. From charging fees and setting calendar boundaries to leveraging TikTok to attract luxury clients, April proves that you can design a travel business that works for your life, not the other way around. Whether you’re new to travel or stuck in hustle-mode, this conversation will light a fire under your ass. Website: https://thevacayway.com/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thevacaycollective Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thevacayway Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevacayway/ Mexperts: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/a/2147513843/dELvGckf  What you’ll learn in this episode: How April grew to $600K+ in sales in under 15 months Why her first booking ($13K honeymoon) changed everything The systems and boundaries that keep her sane with 3 “full-time jobs” How TikTok became her #1 luxury client magnet The three things every advisor should do today: charge a fee, control your calendar, and say no 0:00 – Intro: Meet April, The Vacay Way LLC2:15 – Life behind the business: nursing, caregiving, homeschooling, ADHD6:40 – From nurse to travel advisor: how it all started10:05 – Defining luxury travel & main character vacations14:20 – Overcoming imposter syndrome & building confidence19:50 – The $14K booking that changed everything25:10 – Implementing systems, fees & appointment-only consults30:45 – Why TikTok became her #1 luxury client magnet36:00 – Boundaries, calendars, and saying no40:30 – April’s advice: charge fees, own your time, and stop being 24/745:00 – What’s next: $1M sales & main character energy in business

Marcie Muensterman Website: https://mirandaleachcollective.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/mirandaleachcollective/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mirandaleachcollective  _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Summary In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman and Miranda Leach share their “business bestie love story” of collaboration, growth, and real talk. From surviving MLM life to redefining success as entrepreneurs, they dig into the lessons learned through branding, marketing, and mindset. We didn’t meet through some perfectly polished mastermind, but we were introduced by someone who knew us both. We met in the messy middle of my big pivot from MLM to solo entrepreneur. My business was pivoting hard; I needed a website that finally reflected me, and I was exhausted from months of looking for a web designer. Gratefully, we had a mutual friend who knew we would click! Miranda came in as my designer, then became my coach, and eventually my friend. But let’s be clear: it wasn’t all a match made in friendship heaven from the jump. There’s a 20-year age difference between us, two totally different life stages, and plenty of moments where we’ve had to set boundaries, say the hard stuff, and rebuild our trust. That’s precisely why our friendship and business partnership work, because it’s built on honesty, grit, and zero bullshit. Now, almost 3 years later, we’re sitting upstairs in her retro-fabulous East Tennessee home office during a girls' weekend, talking about the real cost of growing a business: the hours, the money, the tears, the mindset shifts, the money issues, and the small wins that change everything. We also answer YOUR questions from the community about scarcity mindset, luxury clients, selfies, marketing with limited time, and what success actually looks like. Whether you’re a travel advisor, coach, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you see the business journey differently and give you the tools to show up as the CEO of your own story. What we cover: Using the Main Character Magic Bot™ to find your aligned client (and why you can’t shortcut the process). How Miranda went from scarcity spirals to tripling her income through mindset shifts. Marketing strategies for travel advisors when you only have one hour a week. Why your face > logo and how selfies create connection. Booking luxury travel clients when your circle isn’t luxury. Redefining success when your income dips below your old corporate paycheck. Gratitude, resourcefulness, and why business requires both. This episode is for any travel advisor, entrepreneur, or service-based business owner who’s asking: How do I attract luxury clients if my circle isn’t luxury? What do I do when my income isn’t what it used to be from my last job or career? How do I stop hiding behind logos and actually show up with my face? What’s the ROI on tiny investments like the Main Character Magic Bot™? How do I market if I only have one hour a week? How do I keep going when the scarcity brain kicks in? We go all the way in on resourcefulness, gratitude practices, selfies, how to amplify your day to day life in luxurious ways without spending tons of money, branding, Facebook groups, and what success really looks like when you build your business from scratch. Chapters 00:00 Introduction + backstory: MLM to meeting Miranda 02:32 Building a business together: the messy beginning 05:29 Navigating challenges + building trust with a 20-year age gap 08:18 Business dynamics and communication 11:06 Why clarity + confidence matter in growth 13:56 Miranda’s coaching philosophy (Confidence • Clarity • Conversion) 16:26 Personal branding and marketing strategies 19:26 Authenticity > aesthetics in branding 21:56 Creating connection through personality 25:00 Visibility and consistency: why your face beats your logo 27:27 Overcoming obstacles in business growth 39:46 Aligning freebies with business goals 44:28 Understanding the emotional investment in business 51:05 Overcoming scarcity mindset (Miranda’s bank app story) 56:31 The power of affirmations and journaling 01:01:43 Gratitude as a tool for abundance 01:08:00 Romanticizing everyday moments 01:14:35 Marketing when you only have one hour a week 01:19:44 Maximizing ROI on time + content 01:24:00 Building trust through authenticity 01:27:43 Budget-conscious marketing resources 01:31:58 Attracting luxury clients when your circle isn’t luxury 01:43:57 Overcoming self-doubt in content creation (yes, selfies) 01:50:27 Redefining success beyond financial income   What You’ll Learn Why luxury clients buy from travel advisors who market to them directly, not to Aunt Nancy. The power of gratitude and abundance practices to break scarcity brain. How to market consistently with a one-hour-a-week system. Why your personal brand beats any logo or Canva graphic. How to shift from “am I worthy of this?” to “I built this, and I’m owning it.” Keywords (SEO) travel advisor business, travel agent marketing, how to get luxury travel clients, personal branding tips for travel advisors, Main Character Magic Bot, Facebook group growth, business mindset, money mindset, online business coach, resourcefulness in business, consistency in marketing, selfies for personal brand, confidence clarity conversion framework.

Marcie Muensterman Websites:  www.guidegirltravelco.com https://knightlytours.com/ https://www.southwestadventuretours.com/  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/guidegirlmegann Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtravelingwanders/ TitkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@guidegirltravelco Mr. William’s PreK Pause credit: https://www.instagram.com/mrwilliamsprek/  Ranch and Rock Creek (pays 10% to agents direct): https://theranchatrockcreek.com/  _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ In this episode of The No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, Marcie sits down with Megan Whitley Medlin, founder of Guide Girl Travel Co., mom of four, and badass group trip leader. Megan shares her journey from embroidery shops and fitness studios to building a slow-but-mighty travel business while raising her kids and running an Airbnb. She opens up about the leap of faith it took to sign her first group trip contract, what it was like leading 11 women through Montana’s national parks, and how magical moose sightings turned into lifetime memories. Together, Marcie and Megan get real about: Why success isn’t measured by a million-dollar sales badge. How to set boundaries with clients (hello, calendar control!). Saying “no” as a free business strategy. Niching down to attract aligned clients. Why using DMCs can save your sanity and increase commissions. Megan’s story proves that you don’t have to hustle yourself into burnout to build a profitable, fulfilling travel business. Whether you’re a mom balancing sports schedules or a new advisor learning to say no, this episode will inspire you to slow down, set your own pace, and build a business that feels good.   ✨ Key Phrases & Quotables “Say no — and say it often.” “You don’t have to sell millions to be successful.” “Two words: calendar control.” “I signed a contract and thought… this might just be me in Montana on a very expensive trip.” “Taking people into the wilderness and bringing them home in one piece — that’s leadership.” “Travel advisors don’t get raises. We give them to ourselves.” “Taking things slow is not only acceptable, it’s encouraged.” “You can’t do it like everyone else. You have to do it your way.” “Moose will fucking attack you. Please don’t try to pet them.” 🎧 Possible Episode Titles Moose, Moms & Montana: Megan’s Leap into Group Trips Slow Growth, Big Impact: Travel Biz on Your Terms Calendar Control & Saying No Like a Pro From Airbnb to National Parks: Building a Business That Fits Your Life You Don’t Need a Million-Dollar Sales Badge to Succeed Why “No” Might Be the Best Business Strategy You’ve Got Leading with Legacy: Group Trips That Change Lives Travel Biz Without Burnout: Megan’s Story Taking It Slow (and Still Winning in Travel) The Everyday Travel Advisor: Success Redefined 🔑 Keywords Travel advisor podcast, No BS Travel Advisor, group trips, national parks, Montana travel, moose sightings, DMCs, destination management company, niche travel, calendar control, travel business tips, travel advisor success, escorted trips, family travel advisor, work-life balance, entrepreneurship, travel industry coaching, Propose to Close, Commission with a Comma, Guide Girl Travel Co, slow growth business

Marcie Muensterman Marissa Grace Artistry IG:  https://www.instagram.com/marissagraceartistry Melissa Esposito’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/vacationsbymelissa My bucks county/south jersey TAs: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FYraqrCXz/?mibextid=wwXIfr For Destination Wedding University, use the coupon code MELISSA5692 to get $250 Off- (feel free to DM Melissa about it!) Websites:   - https://www.destinationweddinguniversity.com/    - https://www.dwhsa.com/  _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today! _____________________________________________________________ Summary In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Marcie sits down with Melissa Esposito—a mom, entrepreneur, and seasoned travel advisor—to talk about the realities of parenting teens with ADHD while growing a business in the ever-changing travel industry. Melissa shares her transition from hairstylist to travel advisor, highlighting how relationship-building, authenticity, and community support carried her through some of the toughest seasons—especially during COVID. The two discuss the power of mentorship, the importance of branding with clarity, and why charging fees creates healthier client relationships. This episode dives deep into the messy, real-life balance of health, family, and business, while reminding travel advisors that showing up imperfectly is not only okay—it’s the key to growth. Takeaways Parenting teenagers with ADHD comes with unique challenges and joys. Transitioning from hairstyling to travel advisory shows the power of reinvention. Building relationships (not just sales) is the foundation of long-term success. COVID reshaped travel businesses and highlighted the need for resilience. Branding clarity matters: your business name and purpose should be memorable. Mentorship and community are crucial for growth and sustainability. Authenticity on social media builds deeper client trust. Charging fees enhances respect and commitment from clients. Many clients are “lurkers,” so consistent, transparent communication matters. Health and personal challenges inevitably impact business, but resilience is possible. Imperfection and authenticity reduce stress and build connection. Sound Bites “I need to start a new thing.” “Show up imperfectly.” “Clarity is kindness.” Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Melissa Esposito 02:43 – Parenting teenagers with ADHD 05:30 – Discovering travel advisory 08:04 – Building relationships in the travel industry 11:07 – From hairstylist to travel advisor 13:46 – The importance of community and support 16:39 – Establishing independence in business 19:34 – The evolution of Melissa’s travel business 22:09 – The power of collaboration and networking 24:47 – Creating a brand with purpose 26:34 – Why a memorable business name matters 30:01 – The impact of COVID-19 on travel advisors 33:12 – Resilience in the face of adversity 36:29 – The evolution of travel advisory services 40:39 – Building community in the travel industry 44:52 – Personal and professional growth lessons 53:05 – Lessons learned from hairstyling 56:38 – Authenticity in social media 59:21 – Building trust through service 01:01:50 – Navigating personal health challenges 01:06:53 – Awareness of wellness in business 01:10:32 – Evolving perspectives on entrepreneurship 01:15:08 – Embracing change and self-care 01:19:48 – Community as the backbone of growth 01:23:11 – Networking and mentorship in travel 01:26:39 – Three free tips for travel advisors 01:33:09 – Being authentic in business 01:38:44 – Destination weddings and their controversy Keywords ADHD, parenting, teenagers, travel advisory, destination weddings, business growth, entrepreneurship, COVID-19 impact, resilience, community, mentorship, authenticity, social media, branding, fees, health, personal growth, work-life balance

Marcie Muensterman Instagram https://www.instagram.com/navigating_nibbelink_travel?igsh=bHJjbHdrbDdrd2xi&utm_source=qr   How to Work With Me https://navigatingnibbelinktravel.my.canva.site/renee-navigating-nibbelink-website   DV Franchise Website https://dnibbelink.dreamvacations.com/home-page   My Business Coach Kelly (that I mentioned), she trains in her stories every day and gives away so much great advice for female business owners:https://www.instagram.com/walk_like_warriors?igsh=MXQ1OHd1M3BrcXN6OQ==   In this engaging conversation, Marcie and Renee discuss their experiences with hurricanes, the challenges of moving frequently due to military life, and the transition into the travel advisory business. They explore the importance of building client relationships, the learning curve in the travel industry, and the significance of having a supportive community. The discussion emphasizes the importance of clear communication and effective processes in travel planning, as well as the personal touches that can enhance client experiences. Renee shares how building strong client relationships not only alleviates stress but also drives referrals and repeat business. Together, they dive into the importance of confidence, structured frameworks, and collaboration among travel advisors. They emphasize the power of community, the growth opportunities in luxury travel, and how balancing family life with business responsibilities is possible when you treat your business like a serious venture. Takeaways Renee shares her hurricane experiences and the chaos that comes with them. The importance of resilience and adaptability in life transitions. Navigating life in Europe presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. Renee’s journey into travel advisory was fueled by her passion for planning and research. Building a travel business requires understanding the sales process and client communication. Client relationships are enhanced through clear communication and personal touches. The travel industry is constantly evolving, requiring ongoing learning and adaptation. Finding a niche and understanding your ideal clientele is crucial for success. Support and community play a vital role in overcoming challenges in the travel advisory field. Creating a seamless client experience is essential for building trust and loyalty. Quality client relationships lead to better service and higher commissions. Alleviating client stress is crucial for a positive experience. Building confidence comes from experience and clear communication. A structured framework enhances clarity in communication. Leveraging networks can lead to valuable referrals. Exploring luxury travel opportunities can expand business offerings. Balancing family and work is a common challenge for travel advisors. Collaboration among advisors fosters a better industry environment. Sales success is often linked to having a structured process. Titles Navigating Client Relationships in Travel Building Confidence as a Travel Advisor Collaboration Over Competition in the Travel Industry Sound Bites “Alleviating client stress is key.” “Balancing family and work takes clarity and intention.” “Collaboration over competition is how we all win.” Chapters 00:00 Hurricane Experiences and Challenges 05:35 Cultural Adjustments in Europe 10:53 Becoming a Travel Advisor 22:27 Navigating the Challenges of Supplier Training 24:44 The Importance of Community Support 25:51 Gatekeeping in the Travel Industry 27:39 Creating a Safe Space for Questions 29:59 The Need for Clear Processes in Travel Planning 31:10 Transforming Business Practices with New Tools 36:14 Building Client Relationships Through Clear Communication 38:24 Personal Touches in Client Interactions 44:24 Building Relationships and Trust in Travel 46:40 The Importance of Clear Communication 47:52 Frameworks for Success in Travel 51:06 Creating a Supportive Community 55:42 Balancing Work and Family Life 58:29 Achieving Sales Success with Less Work 01:04:51 Free Strategies for Travel Agents to Grow 01:06:50 Building Connections and Learning from Experience 01:07:39 The Importance of Consistency in Marketing 01:08:39 Understanding Your Business Sources 01:09:25 The Role of Social Media in Business 01:10:22 Treating Your Business Like a Business 01:11:20 Tracking Numbers and Financial Awareness 01:12:02 Utilizing Resources and Training 01:13:00 The Challenges of Business Management 01:13:55 The Importance of Specialization 01:14:42 Finding Your Niche in Travel 01:15:45 The Value of Continuous Learning 01:16:43 Building a Supportive Community 01:17:34 The Journey of Growth and Mentorship 01:18:33 Final Thoughts on Business Success _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today!

Marcie Muensterman FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/explorewithasia FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/travelwithasialantz Personal IG: @asiagoesplaces Biz IG: @travelproasialantz Website: www.travelwithasia.com  ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors What do Sedona pool days, a bloody house key handoff, and a sleeve of dad-joke tattoos have in common? They all belong to today’s guest, Asia Lantz, ASTA’s 2025 Travel Advisor of the Year. From waxing rooms to Liberty Travel to running her own thriving agency, Asia shares how being yourself is the best sales strategy, why MLMs are trash, and her top three no-cost tips to move your travel business forward today. Asia went from the wax industry (yep, that kind of hair removal) to Liberty Travel’s brick-and-mortar training, to GoGo Vacations’ long-haul FIT department, and finally into her own thriving independent travel business under Nexion. She’s a data girl with spreadsheets for everything, a dual-income no-kids lifestyle, and a passion for showing clients the hidden gems of Europe and Asia. Inside this candid conversation, we dive into: How Asia built her career from stylist to award-winning TA. Why being yourself is the best sales strategy in luxury travel. The power of unplugging, setting office hours, and not glorifying hustle. How Facebook groups became her best marketing tool (and booked five new clients in six months). Why she says MLMs are destroying the industry—and why advisors need to leave them yesterday. Her top three pieces of advice every TA can use today without spending a dime. If you’re a travel advisor who struggles with sales, marketing without being cringe, or just owning your authentic voice, you need this episode. Expect laughs, real talk, and some serious bestie energy. No BS Travel Advisor Podcast Travel Advisor of the Year ASTA How to become a travel advisor Independent travel agent success stories Nexion host agency review Liberty Travel training program GoGo Vacations long-haul FIT Facebook group marketing for travel advisors Luxury travel advisor tips Travel advisor authenticity MLM travel agency scam Sedona unplugged trip South Korea travel specialist Japan and Vietnam travel advisor Dual income no kids lifestyle travel Be yourself in business advice _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today!

Marcie Muensterman Chasity's Website: www.luxurytravelbychasity.com   Chasity's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxurytravelbychasity   Chasity's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxurytravelbychasity/ The Travel Advisor Marcie Website: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/ Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business: Building a Profitable TA Career: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness This week on the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, I’m hanging out with one of my closest friends, Chasity Munn, a single mom, accountant, and thriving travel advisor who has taken every one of my courses and used them to completely reshape her business. Even though we’ve never met in person, Chasity and I talk constantly about life, love, kids, and business. We even have “DoorDash dates,” where we order food and send each other voice notes while we eat. That’s the exact vibe of this episode and we hope you love it! This is just two girlfriends talking about the real life of running a travel business, with a TON of fluff!  Where you can find Chasity:  Inside this episode, we cover: Back-to-school chaos, single mom life, and balancing two businesses in just ~20 hours a week. How Chas went from imposter syndrome to confidently booking weddings, honeymoons, and romantic travel because she is divorced and how she overcame that. The truth about clients who don’t book: why it’s usually not personal, it’s about timing, price, or fit. Why sales is exactly like dating, from Chipotle dates to lobster dinners. The importance of responsiveness, follow-up, and setting expectations early in the proposal process. Chasity’s three free strategies any advisor can use today: Charge a fee (even a small one, it changes everything). Surround yourself with successful peers and industry knowledge (and build real relationships with BDMs). Run the numbers on your host agency commission split, you might be throwing away thousands. The reality of switching hosts: why it’s an administrative hassle, not a scary leap. How Chasity built her income to six figures while keeping time for her kids, her clients, and her life. Why you cannot run a legitimate travel business without money, travel experience, and investment in yourself. Her unpopular opinion: you can’t be effective as a travel advisor if you’re not traveling yourself to those locations (eventually). This episode blends friendship, tough love, and straight-up strategy. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can actually make money in this business without burning yourself out, or if you’ve felt guilty about leaving a client, a host, or even a past career, this conversation will change how you see your role as a travel advisor.   00:00 Introduction and Personal Connections 05:38 The Emotional Toll of Work and Community 11:03 Systems and Workflows for Efficiency 13:48 Time Management and Scheduling Strategies 16:23 The Importance of Flexibility in Work 19:17 Exploring the World of Wedding Planning 21:57 Using Technology for Wedding Coordination 24:53 The Proposal Process in Wedding Planning 27:37 Navigating Client Expectations 30:27 The Art of Proposal and Options 31:40 Building Relationships with Clients 33:05 The Journey Back to Travel Advising 47:07 Lessons from COVID and Beyond 50:44 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 51:44 Building Community and Trust in Groups 53:03 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship 54:56 Direct Communication and Coaching Styles 56:14 Implementation and Taking Action 57:10 Setting Boundaries in Business and Dating 59:18 Recognizing Worth in Relationships and Business 01:01:17 Help and Release: Navigating Client Interactions 01:03:59 Knowing Your Value and Client Fit 01:06:05 Sales Strategies and Dating Parallels 01:10:55 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations 01:17:38 The Value of Luxury Travel 01:19:43 Closing the Deal: The Importance of Timely Communication 01:22:23 Charging Fees: A Game Changer for Travel Advisors 01:25:00 Building Relationships with BDMs 01:30:34 Understanding Commission Structures 01:33:06 Transitioning Between Host Agencies 01:38:47 The Importance of Personal Travel Experience 01:41:51 Investing in Your Travel Business   How single moms can build a six-figure travel business in 20 hours a week The real reason clients ghost, and why travel advisor sales is just like dating Why you should charge planning fees (and how even $250 changes your income) Building confidence as a romance travel and destination wedding specialist The truth about switching host agencies and commission splits (70% vs. 90%) How to build relationships with BDMs and get invited on FAM trips for free Why you can’t run a travel business without money in the bank and real travel experience What most MLM “travel agents” get wrong, and how to avoid their biggest mistakes The mindset shift from hobbyist to profitable travel CEO Chasity’s three free things you can do today to grow your travel business    _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today!

Marcie Muensterman Linktree - https://linktr.ee/dschlosser   Website - https://mindmytravel.ca   Private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxurytravelwithdeenagroup   Private Solo Traveller's Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/7791329977580482   Local Solo Traveller's Club: https://mindmytravel.ca/solotravelclubregina The Travel Advisor Marcie Website: https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/ Maximize Your Travel Advisor Business: Building a Profitable TA Career: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximizeyourtravelagentbusiness   In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast, I sit down with Deena Schlosser, a brand-new travel advisor, long-time paralegal, devoted caregiver, and mom who proves it’s never too late to rebuild your career and design a business that works for your life. Deena opens up about: Walking away from nearly 30 years in the legal world and starting over at age 50. Balancing caregiving, motherhood, and running a travel business without burning out. The moment she almost quit travel, and what pulled her back in. Why her host agency Trevello (https://trevello.com/) gave her the support she needed (and the shocking 85–100% commission split that changed everything). The mindset shift that turned her from a “booking engine” into a confident business owner. How calendar control (yes, it’s a real thing) saved her sanity at home and skyrocketed her client experience. She learned it all in Propose to Close™️ (https://thetraveladvisormarcie.com/propose-to-close-course)! Charging fees as a new advisor and finally attracting her ideal aligned clients. Her unpopular opinion about the travel industry that every advisor needs to hear. ✨ Plus: Deena shares 3 free things any travel advisor can do TODAY to grow their business without spending a dime.  Listen in the carline, while having wine or at your desk with coffee. This is NOT to be missed. We tackle how her hubby eventually went beyond being concerned to protective AF when someone doesn't hire her. We laughed and we sympathized as we navigated this episode together. If you’ve ever wondered: “Do travel advisors even exist anymore?” “Can I really start a business in my 40s or 50s?” “How do I set boundaries with clients without losing them?” …then this episode is your permission slip to go all in. 00:00 Balancing Caregiving and Career05:33 Discovering a New Passion in Travel11:22 Support and Community in Travel16:58 The Importance of Supportive Leadership26:41 The Journey to Finding Support32:51 Building Confidence and Business Mindset37:46 Implementing Calendar Control for Balance43:11 Family Dynamics and Support in New Ventures48:54 The Importance of Mindset Shifts54:33 Charging for Your Services59:43 The Power of Consistency01:06:04 Creating Memorable Experiences 👉 Hit play now to learn how Deena went from overwhelmed caretaker to confident travel entrepreneur, and how you can do the same. Keywords: travel advisor success story, new travel agent tips, Trevello host agency review, balancing caregiving and business, travel advisor fees, how to start a travel agency, commission splits for travel advisors, calendar control travel business, women in travel industry, No BS Travel Advisor Podcast. _____________________________________________________________ 🎧 PODCAST11 Exclusive OfferUse code PODCAST11 at checkout to get 11% off all 4 Signature Courses: First Class Community Facebook Group Course Propose to Close From Closed to Home Commission with a Comma Start leveling up today!

Marcie Muensterman Dee's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/deebeckvacations  Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman interviews Dee Beck, a travel advisor celebrating her first year in the industry. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life with a new career, the importance of community support, and the realities of the travel advisory business. Dee shares her journey from being a fitness instructor to becoming a travel advisor, highlighting the parallels between the two fields. The conversation also touches on the significance of social media in building a travel business and the insights gained from planning family vacations. In this conversation, Marcie Muensterman shares her journey as a travel advisor, emphasizing the importance of learning through experience, celebrating milestones, and preparing clients for international travel. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the value of mentorship, and actionable advice for new travel advisors. Marcie encourages taking time to build a business and highlights the significance of personal growth and understanding client needs.   Takeaways: Dee Beck celebrates one year as a travel advisor. Balancing family life with a new career is challenging but rewarding. Community support is crucial for success in the travel industry. Social media plays a significant role in building a travel business. Planning family vacations can be a learning experience for travel advisors. The travel advisory business requires patience and perseverance. Earnings in the travel industry can be lower than expected. It's important to research host agencies before joining. Building a Facebook group can enhance community engagement. Success in travel advisory is a marathon, not a sprint. The importance of committing to a learning process for 30 to 60 days. Consistency in branding comes from starting and refining your approach. Celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation and confidence. Understanding industry jargon can enhance your expertise. Creating organized resources for clients can ease their travel experience. Emotional ups and downs are part of the entrepreneurial journey. Asking for help is essential when facing new challenges. Finding a mentor can significantly impact your success. Focusing on a niche allows for deeper knowledge and better service. Utilizing library resources can aid in personal and professional growth.   Titles: Navigating the Travel Industry: Insights from a New Advisor Balancing Family and Career as a Travel Advisor The Journey of a Travel Advisor: Challenges and Triumphs Building a Community in the Travel Advisory Space Secrets to Success in the Travel Industry From Fitness to Travel: A Unique Career Transition   Sound Bites: "Congrats girl!" "I am a podcast junkie!" "I jumped into the deep end." "Christmas is my favorite!" "It's a marathon, not a sprint." "I had over a hundred people join." "I felt really good about that." "I created a Trello board for her." "Ask for help." "Find a mentor." "Pick a niche to focus in on." "Go to your library." "You need to get started."   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:51 Balancing Family Life and Career 06:07 The Journey to Becoming a Travel Advisor 09:00 Navigating the Challenges of a New Business 11:56 The Importance of Community and Support 14:51 Building a Successful Travel Business 18:02 The Role of Social Media in Travel Advisory 20:49 Planning Family Vacations and Experiences 24:05 Insights on the Travel Industry 26:59 The Reality of Earnings in Travel Advisory 29:50 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 34:54 Embracing the Learning Journey 39:46 Celebrating Milestones and Successes 42:33 Preparing Clients for International Travel 45:51 Navigating Emotions in Entrepreneurship 49:44 Actionable Advice for New Travel Advisors 57:35 The Importance of Taking Your Time PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses  Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/  Mexperts: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/  Lori Gold IG: https://www.instagram.com/explorewithlor/  Trello Organizational Tool: www.trello.com  Keywords: travel advisor success, balancing family and business, overcoming business challenges, community support for travel entrepreneurs, social media strategies for travel advisors, expert travel planning tips, travel industry insights, increasing earnings as a travel advisor, top travel advisor podcasts, entrepreneurship in the travel industry, preparing clients for travel, navigating the emotional journey of entrepreneurship, mentorship for travel advisors, niche specialization strategies, personal growth for travel professionals, scaling a profitable travel business