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Business Class is a podcast for those looking to make a living in tourism and traveling well. We host smart conversations with interesting people who built satisfying careers in the tourism workplace. Presented by the academy at Learn Tourism | learntourism.org
211 Episodes
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In this episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Steve Ekstrom welcomes Mat Woods, the CEO of Destination Queenstown in New Zealand. Mat shares his unexpected journey from running a retail chain specializing in outdoor gear to becoming the CEO of a regional tourism office. He highlights his passion for the outdoors and his commitment to environmental stewardship, detailing his efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices in tourism. His insights reveal how personal experiences...
In this episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Steve Ekstrom sits down with John David, President and CEO of Sports ETA, to explore the dynamic intersection of sports tourism and adventure. John shares the rich history of the Sports Events and Tourism Association, detailing its evolution from a small group of 12 sports commissions in 1992 to a robust network of over 700 members today. He explains the diverse membership, which includes destination marketing organizations, rights holders, ...
In this episode of the Business Class podcast, host Steve Ekstrom talks with Colin Carson, CEO of Tourism Prince George, a destination nestled in the heart of British Columbia. Colin shares insights into his journey from university to Denmark to China and back to Canada, all while discovering his passion for tourism. They discuss the importance of curiosity in travelers and the role of stewardship in promoting local Indigenous culture. Discover how Tourism Prince George promotes sustainabilit...
Just days before the destination marketing community converges on the vibrant landscape of Tampa Bay for the annual Destinations International Conference, Steve Ekstrom revisits his engaging conversation with Santiago Corrada, President & CEO at Visit Tampa Bay. Santiago shares his passion for the industry, his insights on the rebranding journey that transformed Tampa into a treasure waiting to be uncovered, and the secrets behind the city's billion-dollar hotel revenue success. Tune in f...
In this episode of a podcast hosted by Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and Co-founder of the Nonprofit Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org, Keith Douglas from KD & Co Advisors discusses the importance of spontaneous networking, community involvement, and sustainability within the tourism industry. They delve into the successes of Out Professionals, a networking group led by Keith that brings together diverse groups and companies to foster community and career growth. The conversation highlights the...
In this episode, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and Co-Founder of Tourism Academy, has a conversation with John Marshall, Founder and Chief Stewardship Officer at NYC Borough Pass. John shares his extensive journey in the tourism industry, the creation and mission of the NYC Borough Pass, and his efforts to promote and preserve New York City's diverse cultural experiences. He discusses the importance of inclusivity, storytelling, and sustainability in tourism, as well as his work with various clients, ...
The following broadcast is an excerpt of a recent live lecture presented by The Tourism Academy's Stephen Ekstrom to a group of entry-level hospitality students studying hotel and restaurant skills to aid in sustainable tourism development of their communities, which border on UNESCO World Heritage sites. Steve Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of the Tourism Academy, recently shared valuable insights from his extensive experience in the hospitality industry. He highlighted five essential sk...
Join us for an insightful conversation between Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Tourism Academy, and Cassandra McAuley, industry expert and managing director at MMGY Global, as they delve into their unique career journeys and the transformative power of storytelling in tourism. In the first segment, Cassandra shares his diverse path from the science center to emergency services and eventually to MMGY Next Factor, her transition from communications to the dynamic world of tourism. Both emphasize the im...
Richard Peterson, President of the U. S. Cultural and Heritage Marketing Council, shares insights on cultural tourism, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, community engagement, and visitor experiences. He discusses the intersection of culture and heritage in tourism, the evolving traits of cultural travelers, and the significance of local engagement and personal connections in enhancing visitor experiences. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - har...
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom delves into the dynamic world of destination marketing with a special guest, Mark Hecquet, President & CEO of the Springfield Missouri CVB. Mark shares his remarkable journey from his roots in London to his pivotal role in shaping the tourism landscape of Springfield. With over 16 years of experience, including a transformative tenure at Travel Butler County, Mark offers invaluable insights into the essence of...
Join us on this episode of the Business Class Podcast as we dive into the fascinating world of destination marketing with Mary Quinn Ramer, President of VisitLEX, the destination marketing organization in Lexington, Kentucky. Mary Quinn shares her journey into the DMO space, from her beginnings in PR & Communications to her current role leading VisitLEX. Discover how VisitLEX has been at the forefront of creativity in earned media, including their groundbreaking move to send an advertisem...
An interview with Doug Price, President and CEO of Visit Colorado Springs, discussing his career journey in the tourism industry, sustainability efforts in Colorado Springs, key trends in tourism, advice for entering the field, and leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tourism, career growth opportunities in the industry, and the responsibility of destination management in enhancing visitor experiences. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, th...
In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Elliott Ferguson, CEO of Destination DC, as we delve into the profound impact of travel on shaping our perceptions and fostering connections across cultures. Ferguson shares his perspective on the transformative power of travel, emphasizing how it enables us to appreciate both our differences and similarities, ultimately galvanizing a sense of unity. Highlighting the importance of representing one's country and community with passio...
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with the esteemed guest, Domenic Bravo, CEO of Visit Cheyenne, for an insightful conversation on destination marketing and navigating the complexities of environmental conservation and economic impact in a politically charged landscape. Domenic Bravo shares his remarkable background and journey in destination marketing, shedding light on the intricate balance between environmental ethics and economic gro...
In this podcast episode, Fred Dixon, the newly appointed CEO of Brand USA, shares insights into his journey in the tourism industry and his vision for the future. Growing up in the hospitality business, Fred initially wanted to be a lawyer but found his passion in tourism, particularly in destination marketing organizations (DMOs). He reflects on the meaningful moments and challenges of his career, highlighting the importance of compassion, empathy, and strength of character for a successful ...
Welcome to another episode of the Tourism Academy Podcast! I'm your host, Stephen Ekstrom, the CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy. Today, we have a fascinating interview with Tammy Canavan, President & CEO of Visit Seattle, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) space. In this enlightening conversation, Tammy shares her deep love for Seattle and how it aligns with her values. Living right downtown, she enjoys the vibrant...
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, your host, Stephen Ekstrom, sits down with Tony Lyle, the Executive Director of Visit Galveston. Join them as they explore Tony's remarkable trajectory from a ski rep in Vermont and Tahoe to leading tourism efforts in the charming town of Galveston. Tony shares insights into the dynamic nature of the tourism industry, emphasizing the importance of selling dreams and creating emotional connections. Reflecting on his e...
Welcome to a new episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, where we connect with inspiring individuals in the tourism industry. In this episode, we had the honor of speaking with Karly, the Senior Marketing Manager of Travel Butler County and a proud member of Destination International's prestigious "30 under 30." Karly shared her incredible experience attending the annual convention in Dallas, where she had the opportunity to meet fellow 30 under 30 members and other industry ...
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Business Class," the podcast that delves into the hidden stories and insights of the tourism industry. I'm your host, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Tourism Academy, and today, we have a remarkable guest, Kristin McGrath, the Executive Director of Visit Pasadena, the Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau. Kristin has had a fascinating journey, from studying art history to becoming a leader in destination marketing. Join us as we explore her path, her love ...
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy Podcast, your host, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy, embarks on a thought-provoking conversation with Julie Freeman, the EVP & Managing Director of MMGY NJF. Join us as we dive deep into Julie's extraordinary journey in the tourism industry and unveil the intricacies of travel public relations. Julie's story begins with a lucky start in tourism during her teenage years when she seized an opportunity to study abroad ...
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