TIQUE Talks: The Business Podcast for Travel Advisors

Download the FREE Sales Call Roadmap: tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+148&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call+Success+RoadmapThis episode challenges one of the most common and costly misconceptions in business: that marketing and sales are the same thing. Anthony Cifelli, Marketing Strategist and Founder of Truevail, explains why confusing these two roles quietly undermines trust, confidence, and conversions. You’ll learn why visibility alone doesn’t lead to bookings, how inconsistent or generic marketing pushes the right clients away, and what actually makes potential clients feel confident enough to say yes. Anthony shares why consistency matters more than clever campaigns, why emotional connection beats promotion, and how staying present over time (not chasing quick wins) is what builds a business people remember. If marketing feels loud but bookings feel quiet, this episode reframes what’s really missing and why fixing it starts with alignment, not more content.About Anthony Cifelli:Anthony has always had a passion for marketing and connecting with people, which led him early on to follow his family into the hotel business. Today, he brings nearly 40 years of experience across the hospitality and travel industries. He began his career with Hyatt Hotels before going on to help build the sales team for what was then a little-known airline, Virgin Atlantic Airways. After a decade-long hiatus as a chiropractor, Anthony returned to the travel industry, spending the next ten years on the representation side with Janine Cifelli Representation. Having founded multiple small businesses along the way, he experienced firsthand how overwhelming marketing responsibilities can be. That insight led him to create Truevail - which helps Travel Advisors with their marketing so that they can focus on their clients.truevailapp.com/affiliates/tiqueToday we will cover:(02:15) Anthony's background in sales and marketing(05:30) The real difference between marketing and sales explained simply(12:45) Attracting the right audience vs. attracting everyone(19:15) Why emotional connection matters more than promotion(21:15) The long game of marketing and why consistency beats quick wins(25:45) Common marketing mistakes travel advisors don’t realize they’re making(31:40) Aligning sales and marketing for sustainable growthSleeping Barber episode: The Eight Fundamentals of Effective MarketingJOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITYVISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOPEXPLORE THE PROGRAMSFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy...

If your Instagram posts look good but your calendar is still wide open, this episode explains why. Marketing is louder than ever, but buyers are savvier, more discerning, and far less impressed by pretty posts alone. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin talk about the uncomfortable truth most business owners avoid: marketing can attract attention, but it doesn’t close the sale. They unpack why high-value clients choose competence over aesthetics, how weak sales confidence leads to scope creep, and why feeling “weird” about sales is quietly costing you revenue. This conversation reframes sales as what it actually is, a confident, consultative process that builds trust, protects your time, and turns warm leads into paying clients. If you’re tired of creating content that performs but doesn’t pay, and you want to stop relying on vibes to grow your business, this episode will change how you think about selling!ENROLL IN SEVEN FIGURE SALES → tiquehq.com/seven-figure-sales/VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP → tiquehq.com/shopEXPLORE THE PROGRAMS → tiquehq.com/programsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Download the FREE Sales Call Roadmap: tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+148&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call+Success+RoadmapCruising has quietly changed, and this episode explains why more advisors should be paying attention. Luxury cruise expert Kemi Wells-Conrad, founder of Wells Luxury Travel, returns to share how small-ship and yacht-style cruising delivers the kind of bespoke, high-touch experience many travelers assume only exists on land. Kemi breaks down how to handle the “I hate cruising” objection, why luxury cruises often deliver better value than mass-market sailings, and how to confidently match the right cruise line to the right client. From better ports and longer stays to fewer crowds, elevated dining, and inclusive pricing, this episode shows why luxury cruising is becoming one of the smartest tools in an advisor’s sales strategy. If you want clients stepping off the ship saying, “that was worth every penny,” press play!About Kemi Wells-Conrad:In 2014, Kemi joined the travel industry, working as the Director of Sales – Corporate and Leisure at North South Travel, where she oversaw the team, handled all strategic partnerships, sales and marketing for the agency. Six years later, at the start of 2021, Kemi decided to launch her own agency, Wells Luxury Travel, a boutique collective for advisors specializing in four key pillars: adventure, celebration, sustainability and wellness travel. Kemi is a proud member of the Travel + Leisure Advisory Board, is a featured A-Lister in their annual awards and sits on the advisory board for National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions. Kemi previously ran the Young Travel Professionals and then Millennials in Travel Vancouver chapter, as well as sitting on Virtuoso’s Global Member Advisory Board for over 6 years. She has been quoted and featured in a variety of publications, including Travel + Leisure, Robb Report, CNBC and BRIDES.  wellsluxurytravel.com@kemiwellsconrad @wellsluxurytravel  Today we will cover:(02:20) How Kemi fell in love with cruising(08:15) Selling the value of luxury cruising to hesitant clients(14:25) Why luxury cruises offer better ports and longer stays(22:15) Advisor benefits of selling cruises(28:45) Marketing cruises to non-cruisers(33:00) Who’s actually booking luxury and expedition cruises now(36:30) Hosted sailings and advisor education opportunitiesListen to Episode 120: The Real Cost of Running A Travel Business with Kemi Wells-ConradJOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITYVISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOPEXPLORE THE...

As the new year approaches, Robin and Jennifer discuss the five questions every advisor should ask themselves before January 1st. These questions will help you check in on your work-life balance, the support systems you’ve built, and whether you're creating the opportunities you actually want. Hear why data should guide your next moves (not just your gut), how to spot the trips and clients that truly fuel your income, and where your systems might be costing you time. It’s a practical, feel-good reset for anyone wanting to step into January with more clarity and momentum. Also, be sure to join the Niche community if you’re craving deeper support and resources in 2026!JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → tiquehq.com/niche?utm_source=tiquetalks&utm_medium=podcastVISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP → tiquehq.com/shopEXPLORE THE PROGRAMS → tiquehq.com/programsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Download the FREE Tech Stack Checklist: tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+154&utm_medium=Podcast+Episode+154&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack If choosing a task management system feels overwhelming, this episode is for you! Jennifer chats with system strategist Sarah Wills, founder of HeySwillsy and the expert behind Tique’s ClickUp Business Hub. Sarah explains what a task management system actually does for your business, how it differs from a CRM and email marketing platform, and why the right tool can completely transform the way you work. She shares the essential features to look for, and explains why some platforms fall short while others scale effortlessly with your business. You’ll also hear what finally pushed her toward ClickUp, how she helps travel advisors customize their systems, and the surprising ways data tracking can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re drowning in sticky notes, managing a growing team, or trying to keep client work from slipping through the cracks, this episode will help you understand the logic behind your systems so you can work smarter, not harder!Connect with Sarah Wills:heyswillsy.cominstagram.com/heyswillsy  Today we will cover:(01:30) Meet Sarah Wills; how she became a systems expert(03:45) What a task management system actually does(08:20) What to look for in a task management platform(10:25) Trello vs. Clickup(19:35) How Sarah uses Dubsado and ClickUp together(24:10) How advisors can see referrals, return clients, and true marketing ROI(29:15) How to reevaluate your process using time tracking(38:15) Team management inside ClickUp; onboarding team members or ICs(47:30) What not to use ClickUp for Check out the ClickUp Business Hub Template → tiquehq.com/shop/clickup-business-hub-templateListen to Episode 154: How To Organize And Store Industry Contacts with Kristen Heitman JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITYVISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOPEXPLORE THE PROGRAMSFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Today’s question is one that hits Tique’s inbox at least once a day: Should I change my CRM? Jennifer, Robin, and Ashlyn (Tique’s workflow guru and product manager) break down why the answer is usually not so fast. Before you chase the next shiny tech solution, hear why you should first fully use the features you already have, and how skipping that step can lead to unnecessary costs, messy migrations, and full-blown workflow chaos. Ashlyn walks through what a CRM should be doing for your business, how to evaluate whether it’s actually falling short, and why tightening your processes often solves the problem long before a system switch ever will. You’ll also get a rundown of the five travel-industry CRMs they recommend and how to assess which tool aligns with your business. If the lure of a new platform has been calling your name, this episode is your sign to pause, evaluate, and make moves with intention instead of impulse!      Workflow Implementation → tiquehq.com/workflow-implementation Connect with Ashlyn → hello@tiquehq.com           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

THE 2026 ROADMAP: MASTERING AI FOR GROWTH  Tickets Now Available! → tiquehq.com/ai   Everyone wants the secret sauce to becoming a successful travel advisor…so Robin and Jennifer brought on someone who actually knows. One of the most dynamic voices in the industry, Jenn Lee joins this episode to discuss the common traits that top advisors share. You’ll hear why mindset, confidence, leadership, and resilience matter just as much as destination expertise, and why thinking like a business owner isn’t optional if you want to grow. Jenn also gets into the systems high-performing advisors rely on (hi, CRMs!) and how the right processes can completely transform your workload and profitability. And yes, she goes there: what to do if you love travel but aren’t sure agency ownership is your forever lane. From alternate roles to niche paths, Jenn explains how you can still build a career in travel that aligns with your strengths and brings you joy. Listen now!   About Jenn Lee: Jenn is a dynamic leader in the travel industry, serving as President and Chief Marketing Officer of both Travel Planners International (TPI) and its sister company, Vacation Planners. With over 30 years of experience building and managing sales teams for Fortune 500 companies including Marriott Vacation Club, Ryland Homes, and Premiere Farnell, Lee brings strategic vision and an entrepreneurial mindset to empowering independent travel advisors. Known for her "let's get it done" culture and passionate advocacy for the travel advisor community, Lee also serves on the board of the Family Travel Association. Based in Maitland, Florida, she is dedicated to elevating the travel planning experience and creating opportunities for travel professionals to thrive both personally and professionally.     linkedin.com/in/jennleelovestravel     Today we will cover:  (02:10) Meet Jenn Lee: one of the most influential voices in the advisor community  (07:40) Shifting your mindset from hobbyist to entrepreneur  (16:15) The core traits of a successful advisor  (32:30) How rediscovering your “why” can realign your entire business  (35:35) Systems, CRMs & running a sellable business  (42:15) Investing in help long before overwhelm hits  (44:50) Signs agency ownership isn’t your lane & what paths exist beyond it  (54:05) Leaving a business isn’t failure; Jennifer’s story of pivoting     Get the FREE Business Launch Checklist! http://www.tiquehq.com/launch?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+40&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Launch+Checklist           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   a...

Ready to keep clients coming back all year long? This Hot Take dives into one of the most overlooked revenue streams in the industry: hotel bookings. What starts as a story about a friend booking Gleneagles without looping in her travel advisor turns into a massive reminder that your clients do not automatically know to come to you for hotels. And that gap is costing advisors thousands of dollars a year with almost no lift required. From mentioning it on intake calls to promoting it consistently in newsletters and on social media, learn easy ways to bake hotel-only bookings into your process. Also learn how this service smooths out slow seasons, reduces burnout, diversifies your revenue, and strengthens client loyalty without adding hours to your workload. If you want more clients thinking of you for every trip, hit play and learn how to incorporate this profitable, low-lift revenue stream for 2026!           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors   Rebecca Guthrie, a tech founder who has navigated some major life pivots, joins this episode to talk about the seasons of life that force you to slow down, reevaluate, and rebuild. She introduces the idea of “unreasonable seasons” and how they are often the catalyst for your next chapter rather than a sign you are falling behind. You will hear what it actually looks like to realign instead of “quit,” how to raise your worth line, how to stop comparison from draining your confidence, and why the relationships around you matter more than you think. Rebecca also breaks down the phases of her Build Anyways framework: moving from self awareness and stillness into redefining your values, setting boundaries, rebuilding momentum, and choosing a life that aligns with who you want to become. If you have been feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads in your life or business, this episode is your reminder that your hardest seasons often point you toward your next direction, and you do not have to stay in the breakdown to move into the rebuild.   About Rebecca Guthrie: Rebecca Guthrie is a serial entrepreneur and former tech executive who has built multi-million-dollar companies in the real estate technology space. After overcoming life-changing setbacks, including a cancer diagnosis, she turned her experience into purpose by helping high achievers rebuild and realign after major turning points in their lives and careers. Drawing from her background in leadership, strategy, and resilience, Rebecca guides others in creating a new path forward with clarity, courage, and confidence.   instagram.com/rebeguthrie     Today we will cover:  (00:40) Meet Rebecca Guthrie  (01:40) What are “unreasonable seasons”  (08:00) The Build Anyways framework  (14:15) Understanding your worth line  (23:00) Why you shape your own direction  (28:00) How your hardest moments often hold the blueprint for helping others  (34:30) Posting for 180 days straight; authenticity over aesthetics           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ         Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors: Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors   If you think you can wait until January to set 2026 goals and make business tweaks, think again! This week’s Hot Take breaks down the exact December checklist every advisor should be working through before WAVE season hits and your inbox explodes. From tightening your pricing and contracts to cleaning up your workflows and giving your financials a much-needed audit, Robin and Jennifer walk you through the behind-the-scenes tune ups most advisors skip and regret later. Also, stick around until the end for details on upcoming events that will help you lock in your goals and momentum for the new year! Tune in, take notes, and (if you haven't already) join the Niche community to get the tools, templates, and support that will make 2026 your #BestYearEver.           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ IT’S TIQUE’S BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR! November 24th - December 1st |  Get 25% off with code Black Friday   This episode is fuel for anyone building a travel business with big goals and even bigger grit. Katie Gibson, founder of KG Travel Co., spills the details on how she went from “considering it a side gig” to surpassing one million dollars in sales in just over a year. From setting boundaries and charging fees to investing in systems that helped her look polished from day one, Katie shares how she built her business so quickly and learned from the messy moments along the way. If you're in your first year (or honestly, your fifth), her story is a powerful reminder that confidence, systems, and belief in your value are the foundation of a scalable business. Katie’s mindset shifts, mistakes, and million-dollar lessons will leave you inspired to level up the way you show up!   About Katie Gibson: Katie is the founder of KG Travel Co., a boutique travel design firm she launched just 15 months ago after a decade-long career in sales and leadership development. She’s built her business around a deep love of exploring the world and helping others do the same. When she’s not crafting dream itineraries, she’s a proud mom to Sam, 13, and Caroline, 12, and wife to her husband Dan of 18 years. When she’s not designing trips for clients, Katie is either happily at home or off exploring the world—there’s not much in between. Her next adventure? Southern Spain!   kgtravelco.com @KGTravelco     Today we will cover:  (02:30) Meet Katie: from top MLM leader to launching KG Travel Co.  (04:35) Building a business with intention and hitting one million in sales  (11:25) The early systems and boundaries she put in place  (18:55) Charging planning fees with confidence  (29:00) The client experience that supports the fee  (52:15) Katie’s organic, non-salesy approach to connecting with dream clients  (58:35) Advice for first-year advisors     JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors         JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ         Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors: Cozy Earth -...

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←   This week’s Hot Take covers the always spicy topic - planning fees. During a recent presentation for the Travel Institute’s alumni week, someone asked the question: How do you introduce fees to previous clients who’ve never paid one before? This episode touches on that, but the real heart of this conversation is for advisors who are already charging fees and want to elevate the way they talk about them. Jennifer and Robin flip the script on planning fees and unpack what you’re actually promising your clients when you charge one. Because fees aren’t just good for your business model. They’re advantageous to your clients, too! If you’ve been wanting to elevate how you position your fees, this episode will help you articulate the value behind them without over-explaining or apologizing.           VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors   The robots aren’t coming for your job, but the advisors who know how to use them just might! Tique Talks’ most listened-to guest, Kha Ly, is back for another mind-blowing conversation about how the smartest travel advisors are using AI to work faster, stay relevant, and reach new clients without losing their human touch. In this episode, Kha breaks down the five things every advisor should focus on right now to stay competitive: from using AI to refine your voice, to creating content that actually gets discovered, to leveraging your expertise instead of outsourcing your judgment. He explains the mindset shifts, strategies, and small but powerful tweaks that help advisors stand out in an industry where everyone’s looking for shortcuts. If you want to stay visible, get discovered by new clients, and use AI in a way that makes you truly irreplaceable, this conversation is a must-listen!   About Kha Ly: Kha is a visionary Marketing Technologist who has spent 25 years at the forefront of digital innovation. From crafting Google's early ground-breaking AdWords campaigns to shaping Meta's advertising platform, Kha has been a driving force in digital marketing's evolution. Kha's role is set to revolutionize how travel advisors approach marketing. His expertise will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving landscape, harnessing the power of digital and AI technologies to enhance your reach and effectiveness. Join Kha to unlock the power of AI and position yourself at the cutting edge of travel marketing. Prepare to revolutionize your approach and drive growth in the digital age.    facebook.com/itsallaboutkha     Today we will cover:  (04:55) How AI actually elevates advisors who know how to use it  (11:10) How advisors are ranking on page one of google in hours  (18:10) Why switching to “creator mode” can instantly expand your reach  (33:00) The future of CRMs; automation and AI integration; AI agents  (35:50) How to use AI on FAM trips and site visits  (46:25) Making AI your strategic advantage  (56:50) The power of custom GPTs      → Mark your calendars for TIQUE’S BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR! November 24th - December 1st |  Get 25% off with code Black Friday           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ         Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors: ul...

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←   Feeling fried, foggy, or like your brain is running 47 tabs at once? You are definitely not the only one! In this week’s Hot Take, Robin and Jen dig into the dark side of productivity culture and why unplugging might actually be the most productive thing you do this month. From social media doomscrolling disguised as “research” to the illusion of rest that still involves your phone, they share how disconnecting can help you rediscover creativity, clarity, and your actual personality. If you have been craving space to think again, this is your reminder that white space is not wasted time. It is where your best ideas begin.           VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Your logo, your name, your content…if you don’t protect it, a copycat might steal it. Zara Young, founder of boutique law firm Watson and Young, joins this episode to share what every business owner should know about protecting their brand. You’ll learn the most common IP mistakes travel advisors make, what you actually own in your business, and the simple steps to safeguard your work so you can grow with clarity and confidence. Zara also dives into the wild world of rebrands, cease and desists, and that little ™ symbol that makes your brand look instantly more legit. If you’ve poured your heart (and budget) into building your business, this episode is your legal wake-up call to protect it before someone else does.   About Zara Young: Zara Young, Esq. brings over eight years of experience in intellectual property law and has supported more than 900 brands globally. She is the co-author of Your Intellectual Property Fortress: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Brand and Business From Copycats, a practical roadmap for founders to defend and elevate their brand assets. Based in New York, Zara works with ambitious female entrepreneurs to protect their brands and build meaningful businesses. She helps clients understand the real-world risks of overlooking brand protection and provides clear, actionable steps such as filing trademarks and copyrights. Zara believes the power of your brand lies not only in what you create, but in how confidently you claim and defend it.   watsonandyoung.com     Today we will cover:  (01:15) Meet Zara; founding her niche in intellectual property law  (06:30) Trademarking vs. copywriting  (13:15) Why small businesses can’t afford to ignore IP protection  (15:45) What trademarking really costs  (21:20) The “first in use” rule  (25:20) Why it’s worth it to hire a legal expert  (29:35) TM vs. R: what’s legal, what’s not, and how to use each correctly  (40:50) Legal precautions specifically for travel advisors  (45:15) AI-generated content; what you can’t legally protect           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ         Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors: span...

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←   This week’s Hot Take is a little different. No industry headlines, no Q&A, just Robin and Jennifer walking the talk. For years, they’ve told you to refine your offers, charge your worth, and simplify your systems… so they did exactly that inside the Niche community. Hear the details on why one-size-fits-all no longer worked, what sparked the new membership tiers, and how they made the tough calls that keep Niche sustainable and seriously elevated. Some loved it, some didn’t, and that’s business, baby!    Hit play for all the details on what’s changing, why it matters, and how this evolution is making Niche even better for everyone, from brand new advisors to the legacy members.           VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TIQUEHQ

You’ve nailed your Instagram content and you’re growing your email list, but when was the last time you pitched yourself to the press? Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West, joins this episode to discuss one of the most underrated growth tools for travel advisors - press features. Building visibility, credibility, and authority in a crowded market matters now more than ever. And if you think getting featured in the press is only for big brands and influencers, think again! Mindy shares insider strategies for attracting media attention, avoiding common PR missteps, and cultivating long-term relationships with journalists. From pitching the right story angle to understanding what editors actually look for, this episode is packed with gold for any advisor ready to get their name in print and elevate their brand. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in the media, this conversation will leave you ready to hit “send” on that first pitch!   About Mindy Poder: Mindy Poder is the Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West and oversees content for the Future Leaders in Travel event. A veteran travel journalist and content strategist, her work has earned top honors from the Society of American Travel Writers, and she was recognized as Travel Journalist of the Year by the North American Travel Journalists Association. She was also named one of Folio: magazine’s “30 Under 30” for her editorial leadership and big-picture content strategy. Through her role at TravelAge West, Mindy is dedicated to empowering travel advisors with the insights and inspiration they need to grow their businesses and better serve their clients.     travelagewest.com futureleadersintravel.com     Today we will cover:  (02:25) Meet Mindy; her journey from intern to Editor-in-Chief  (06:05) What makes a great introduction and how to stand out in a journalist’s inbox  (11:40) How the editorial process works; BTS of TravelAge West  (21:25) Future Leaders in Travel  (30:10) New ways advisors are monetizing  (32:45) Building PR and media relationships; how to stand out for the right reasons  (39:40) The future of travel journalism  (41:55) The WAVE Awards; categories, deadlines, and how to apply           JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY   VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ   p...

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←   This week’s Hot Take tackles a question from a Niche community member about how to prepare your business for the whirlwind stretch in January and February when travel inquiries surge (aka Wave season). Jennifer and Robin explain how to use the end of the year to reflect, audit, and refine so you enter 2026 clear on who you want to work with, confident in your systems, and ready to handle Wave season at full capacity. They also remind listeners that January and February don't look the same for everyone, and that’s okay! Success in 2026 isn’t about doing more … It's about doing what matters better. From knowing your dream clients to building repeatable systems and staying grounded when the industry gets noisy, this episode will help you enter Wave season with clarity, confidence, and total control!     Resources Mentioned: Episode 151. Hot Take: Holiday Spending Trends Episode 159. Hot Take: Commission Reconciliation Client Communication Templates           VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → Mark your calendar for Rep Rundown - Happening Oct. 29th & 30th!   If you’ve ever walked into a room full of successful peers and thought, “What am I even doing here?”, this episode is for you! Kerry Dyer,  Chief Development Officer at Brownell Travel, has built a career leading, mentoring, and inspiring advisors to grow thriving businesses with confidence. After delivering a powerful presentation on imposter syndrome at Virtuoso Travel Week, Jennifer and Robin knew it was essential to bring that conversation to the podcast. In this episode, Kerry unpacks what imposter syndrome really looks like, the most common triggers advisors face, and how to reframe self-doubt before it takes over. From perfectionism and comparison traps to boundaries and self-belief, she shares strategies you can start using today. You’ll walk away with tools to build confidence, celebrate your wins, and finally feel comfortable owning your expertise, because you do belong in the room!   About Kerry Dyer: What began as a “happy accident” turned into a 30-year career in luxury travel. After earning a BFA in Art History, she joined Maritz Travel, where her passion for sales quickly emerged. She went on to spend 14 years with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, ultimately serving as Director of Leisure Sales for the Americas, followed by a successful tenure as Director of Sales and Marketing at Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta. Now, as Chief Development Officer at Brownell, she leads Marketing, Partners, and Advisor Development, bringing her deep industry expertise and leadership full circle.   brownelltravel.com/hosting/team/kerry-dyer     Today we will cover:  (03:35) Meet Kerry Dyer; her early lessons in confidence  (11:15) What is imposter syndrome, really?  (15:55) How lack of formal credentials, comparison, and entrepreneurship amplify self-doubt in the travel industry  (23:50) The 5 types of imposter syndrome; identifying your patterns and reframing them  (31:45) Progress over perfection; why letting go of control can change everything  (40:35) How community and collaboration silence self-doubt faster than working alone  (44:15) Setting boundaries and showing up intentionally for your clients and family             VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ         p...

Have you ever realized you didn’t get paid because you missed one tiny step? This week’s Hot Take question comes from Katherine, who recently discovered that one of her DMCs didn’t send her commission…because she hadn’t invoiced them. (Wait, what?!)    So, should you be sending invoices for every trip? Or only when asked?    Robin and Jennifer break it all down: which suppliers require invoices, how to track commissions, and the one system that’ll save you from chasing payments. Press play and learn how to make sure every dollar you’ve earned actually lands in your bank account!   JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY - an interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business!         VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP   EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS   FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ