The Travel Business Unpacked

Meredith is joined by Julie Ann Hargett, owner of H Luxury Travel and GTN Top Producer. Julie Ann shares how she went from planning a personal anniversary trip to building a referral-only luxury travel business, all while raising two kids and navigating rapid industry shifts. In this episode, Julie Ann opens up about the challenges of growing a high-touch agency, what it really takes to deliver luxury service, and how she built lasting client relationships rooted in trust, personalization, and consistency. She also reflects on the importance of setting boundaries, hiring support before burnout, and giving herself permission to pursue both a successful business and a fulfilling family life.H Luxury Travel: https://hluxurytravel.com/

In this week's special episode of The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway was joined live at The 7-Figure Travel Business Summit by three advisors known for their standout branding. During this dynamic panel conversation, these advisors shared how they turned personal vision into powerful brand identities that not only feel luxurious, but deeply aligned with their values and voice. From finding the right designer to knowing when to pivot, they offer honest insights into the creative process behind building a brand that truly resonates.They also explore:What it takes to create a brand that reflects both passion and professionalismLessons learned from collaborating with branding expertsHow to evolve your brand as your business and goals shiftSigns your brand may be due for a refreshThe balance between aesthetics and clarity in luxury brandingWhether you’re starting from scratch or reimagining your brand’s future, this conversation is full of practical takeaways and creative inspiration.Featured Advisors:Jen Campbell Boles, Explore More Travel Co.🔗https://exploremoretravelco.com/Erica Davies, The Well Traveled Soul🔗https://thewelltraveledsoul.com/Margaret Critz, For The Good Times Travel. 🔗https://forthegoodtimestravel.com/

In this episode, Meredith Calloway talks with Caroline Hollar, GTN’s Director of Marketing, about her journey from fresh college graduate to TravelPulse 40 Under 40 honoree. Caroline shares what nearly a decade inside Gifted Travel Network has taught her about the evolution of travel entrepreneurship, the rise of next-gen advisors, and how AI is reshaping marketing and creativity across the industry.Together, they explore the mindset behind facing fear - whether that’s launching a business or boarding a plane - and what it takes to build confidence, embrace change, and carve out a career that truly takes you places - sometimes literally. Caroline's 40 under 40 profile: https://www.travelpulse.com/40-under-40/2025/caroline-hollar-gifted-travel-network

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Laney Sachs, founder of Ortensia Blu Travel Adventures and GTN Top Producer. What began as a side hustle importing olive oil from Italy turned into a thriving travel business rooted in Laney’s deep love for Italy, her eye for detail, and her commitment to doing things right. In this episode, she shares how her early group trips grew organically from a blog and Facebook posts, why working with DMCs transformed her business (and her sanity), and how she intentionally built a team to support both growth and balance. From finding the right clients to monetizing group travel from the very beginning, Laney’s approach is a masterclass in staying grounded while scaling smart.They also explore:Why working with DMCs is a non-negotiable in luxury travelWhat made Laney a natural fit for “come with me” group strategiesThe confidence it takes to sell destinations you haven’t visitedHow she built a referral-based business from scratchHer hiring journey—and how she found the right team membersThe real mindset shift behind sustainable successWhether you’re just starting out or preparing to scale, Laney’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no one right way to build a fulfilling travel business—just the way that’s right for you.🔗Ortensia Blu Travel Adventures: https://ortensiablutraveladventures.com/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Joan Qualls of Tasteful Voyages, a longtime Travel MBA alum with a sharp business background and a deep love for travel. After a successful 30-year career in healthcare finance, Joan could have comfortably retired, but she instead chose to build a travel business from the ground up. Joan shares how she accidentally stumbled into the industry, how her analytical mindset and mentoring instincts shaped her success, and why helping others experience the world brings her the most joy. From polar bears in Greenland to river cruises inspired by a magazine ad, her story isn't just proof that it’s never too late to start something new, but also that your previous career might be your biggest asset. They also explore:- How the Travel MBA program laid the foundation for Joan’s entrepreneurial mindset- The value of luxury partnerships,even for budget-conscious clients- Why Virtuoso membership has been a “game changer” for her growth- How Joan defines success on her own terms- Her role as a connector, mentor, and trusted resource in the GTN community- Advice for career-changers navigating doubt or imposter syndrome Whether you're building your business alongside a full-time job or starting over after retirement, Joan’s story is a reminder that curiosity, generosity, and community are powerful tools for long-term success.https://www.tastefulvoyages.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tasteful_voyages/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Meghann Bjarnesen, co-founder of Besté Travel Design. With a corporate background in health insurance and a consulting mindset, Meghann brings a refreshingly strategic and systems-driven perspective to building a travel business, all while still working a full-time job.In this episode, Meghann shares how leaving an executive role led her to entrepreneurship, and why structure, time-blocking, and clear boundaries have been key to growing her agency sustainably. She opens up about the realities of starting a business with a close friend, finding clarity in complementary roles, and embracing the slower, often nonlinear path to seven-figure sales.They also explore:What it really looks like to run a travel business while fully employedThe value of networking intentionally, and how Meghann uses tools like the Scout Guide to drive growthBuilding trust and credibility with luxury clients, even before you have the portfolioLearning from early business mistakes, including process gaps and boundaries with clientsHow writing and content creation have become a quiet superpower in her marketing strategyWhether you’re juggling multiple roles or building your business in phases, Meghann’s journey is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. It’s about using your strengths, staying open to pivots, and knowing when to move at your own pace.

Curious about the 7-Figure Travel Business Summit and whether it’s right for you? In this solo episode, Meredith Calloway pulls back the curtain on GTN’s highly anticipated 3-day virtual event happening November 18–20.Whether you’re dreaming about turning your passion for travel into a legitimate career or you’re an established advisor stuck in the “accidental hobbyist” trap, this summit was designed with you in mind. Meredith answers the most frequently asked questions, shares the inspiration behind bringing this industry-wide event to life, and walks through exactly what attendees can expect—from the game-changing content to the Partner Lounge lineup.You’ll hear:- What the summit actually is (and isn’t)- Who it’s for (and who it’s not)- Why the time to go all in on luxury travel is now- A preview of the featured topics, speakers, and luxury partner sessionsWhether you're brand new, pivoting into luxury, or looking to finally scale, this episode will help you decide if this is your next best step. Spoiler alert: it probably is.🎟️ Learn more & register: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/events/summit

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Kim Esté, co-founder of Besté Travel Designs. A former high school educator who once led student trips through Europe, Kim shares how a casual conversation with a friend sparked a complete career transformation—and how she’s built a thriving travel business in her 60s.In this candid conversation, Kim reflects on what it really takes to go from part-time planner to million-dollar producer, the emotional highs and mindset hurdles along the way, and why creating a brand rooted in your identity matters. She also opens up about what it’s like to build a business with a best friend, how community played a role in her success, and why she’s more confident than ever in the future of her travel career.They also explore:How Kim built momentum in a 55+ community The role of rebranding in attracting luxury clientsHow group travel became a natural nicheWhy partnership and mindset are key to long-term successHer “pinch me” moments—from Cappadocia to business class flightsWhether you’re pivoting careers or growing your luxury travel business, Kim’s story is a grounded, inspiring look at what’s possible with heart, strategy, and a strong support system.

Meredith sits down with Top Producer Katie Crago of KHC Grand Travel to explore how she turned a love for Disney into the foundation of a thriving luxury travel business. Katie shares how she escaped the “accidental hobbyist” trap, defined her ideal client, and built a small but mighty team to support growth. They dive into mindset shifts, delegation strategies, and the three phases of the sales cycle - plus the partner relationships that open doors to those unforgettable, pinch-me moments for clients.

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Vicki Freed, Royal Caribbean International’s Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Service. With a career spanning more than four decades, Vicki has become one of the most respected leaders in cruising and one of the strongest advocates for travel advisors.In this episode, Vicki reflects on her path from selling travel in her early 20s to leading sales at two of the world’s biggest cruise lines. She shares why relationships have always mattered more than titles, how Royal Caribbean stood by advisors during the pandemic, and why she believes kindness and compassion should guide leadership.They also explore:The evolution of the travel advisor’s role from agent to trusted advisorHow Royal Caribbean has invested in supporting advisors long-termThe cruise industry’s biggest opportunities for growth and new-to-cruise clientsInnovation at sea, from Perfect Day at CocoCay to Icon of the SeasWhy entertainment, luxury suites, and even shipboard dogs are redefining the cruise experienceHow perspective, gratitude, and “mental muscles” help leaders navigate stressVicki also shares the philosophy that drives her work: travel advisors aren’t just booking trips, they’re memory doctors, creating life-changing moments that clients will never forget.

What’s the difference between starting your own travel business and joining an existing agency as a booking member? In this episode, Meredith Calloway sits down with Stephanie Jones, Membership Development Specialist at Gifted Travel Network, to unpack the two paths into the travel industry and what it takes to succeed. From her firsthand experience as both a booking member and now the person who interviews prospective Travel MBA applicants, Stephanie shares insights on Jumpstart, selling luxury travel, and building lasting relationships. This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, Meredith is joined by Stephanie Jones, Membership Development Specialist at Gifted Travel Network. Stephanie came to GTN after her own experience as a booking member with The Travel Boutique, where she discovered both the rewards and realities of working as a travel advisor. Now, she’s the first point of contact for aspiring advisors exploring GTN’s Travel MBA program. In this episode, Stephanie shares her unique perspective on the two distinct paths into the travel industry, building your own business versus joining as a booking member, and why both have an important place in the profession. She also reflects on what she’s learned from auditing the Travel MBA program, including the emotional impact of Jumpstart, the value of relationships in luxury travel, and why selling early is essential to long-term success.Stephanie also shares her own adventurous spirit—from becoming a licensed pilot to planning her dream trips—and how her journey continues to shape her role in helping new advisors take their first steps.

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Christina Vieira of Showcase the World Travel. What began as a Disney-focused side hustle quickly grew into a thriving family travel business with a clear brand, strong systems, and a loyal client base. Christina shares how she built her business around busy moms, created a funnel that works, and turned marketing into her zone of genius.In this episode, Christina explains why strategy matters more than instant gratification, how she grew through a pandemic-era launch, and what it really takes to scale with a team. She also talks candidly about balancing business ownership with motherhood, and why she believes in teaching kids to travel early and often.They also explore:How to design lead magnets and funnels that actually convertTurning Disney clients into long-term, repeat travelersThe role of automation and email sequences in building relationshipsCharging fees confidently in a crowded Disney marketBuilding a team that aligns with your core valuesWhy systems, boundaries, and trust are the keys to growthFrom marketing brilliance to meaningful family moments, Christina’s story is a practical, inspiring look at building a business that supports both clients and your life.🔗Showcase The World Travel: https://showcasetheworld.com/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Tammy and Justin Murphy, the mother–son duo behind VIP Travel Experience. Over the past decade, they’ve built a thriving, referral-based luxury travel business rooted in trust, creativity, and shared passion. What started as Tammy taking over a small agency from her brother has evolved into a multi-million-dollar company with a team of seven, top producer status, and clients who return year after year.In this episode, Tammy and Justin reflect on the lessons of building a family-run business, from balancing roles and responsibilities to navigating growth and hiring. They share how Tammy’s early passion for Italy shaped their brand, how Justin brought fresh energy and detail-oriented expertise, and why their group trips have become a signature part of their success.They also explore:What it really takes to grow from solo advisor to thriving teamThe challenges and rewards of running a business with familyWhy referrals and long-term client relationships drive sustainable growthThe evolution of group travel and how to make it a profitable nicheTheir most meaningful “pinch me” travel momentsWhether you’re dreaming of bringing family into your business or curious about scaling beyond solo, Tammy and Justin’s story is a candid look at what it means to build a business that lasts.🔗VIP Travel Experience: https://www.viptravelexperience.com/

Behind every travel advisor’s success is an organization fighting for the profession. Meredith chats with ASTA President & CEO, Zane Kerby, about why ASTA matters, how it’s protecting advisors at every level, and the real stories of wins that keep this industry thriving.Learn more: https://www.asta.org/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Travel MBA alum, longtime GTN mentor, and cruise expert, Celeste Auger Munshi of Indulgent Voyages. In this episode, Celeste shares how she moved from corporate structure to entrepreneurship, why cruises are one of the most versatile and lucrative products for advisors to sell, and how she has built a successful business while navigating the realities of being a caregiver.Topics covered in this episode include:Dispelling common cruise misconceptions and finding the right fit for every travelerHow to grow a business through referrals, repeat clients, and deep relationshipsDesigning a sustainable business model around your capacity and prioritiesThe unique flexibility of travel advising for different life stages and needsFrom multi-generational vacations to once-in-a-lifetime expeditions, Celeste’s story shows how you can create meaningful travel experiences for clients while building a business that works for your unique life circumstances.🔗Indulgent Voyages: https://www.indulgentvoyages.com/

What happens when you blend a deep love for travel, a calling for community, and a background in ministry? This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Stacey and Fred Baker of Dogwood Travel Designs. In this episode, you’ll hear how the Bakers went from Disney family vacations to full-time travel entrepreneurship, carving out a niche in luxury faith-based group travel. They share how their son’s unique needs inspired Stacey’s start, how Fred’s pastoral background shapes their business vision, and how they’ve grown into a powerful team with complementary strengths. They also unpack mindset shifts around money and faith, the long game of growing group travel, and how the right community makes all the difference, especially when life throws you a curveball. Whether you're a solo advisor or building something with a partner, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into what it really takes to build a meaningful, sustainable travel business.Website: https://www.dogwoodtravel.com/Instagram: www.instagram.com/dogwoodtraveldesigns/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Erin Camin of Brilliant Escapes. After a decade in the New York ad world, Erin Camin took a six-month sabbatical that turned into ten months of slow travel and soul searching, ultimately leading her to build her own boutique travel business. In this episode, Erin shares her journey from burnout to business owner, how she navigated a pandemic-era pause, and the patient growth it took to find her niche in luxury dive trips.They also explore:How to align your travel business with your personal values and lifestyleStrategies for destination matching and creating tailored client experiencesThe realities of running a travel business while working full-timeRedefining luxury travel through personalization, connection, and thoughtful pacingWhether you’re just starting out or figuring out your next chapter, Erin’s story will inspire you to trust your instincts, take the leap, and design a business that fits the life you want.🔗Brilliant Escapes: https://brilliantescapes.com/

After 30 years in IT, Alex Worlow made a bold career pivot into luxury travel -and never looked back. In this episode, he shares how a foundation in business helped him build a travel company with staying power, why support and mentorship were critical to his growth, and how shifting his mindset transformed his client base and revenue. We explore: - Why the right host agency can accelerate your success - The transition from selling travel to designing experiences - How to stop chasing volume and start increasing value - How Alex and his wife divide strengths to run their business - ...And lessons learned from a travel mishap in BarcelonaFollow Alex and Storyline Travel: Website: https://www.storylinetravel.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storyline_travel/

In this inspiring episode of Travel Business Unpacked, host Meredith Calloway sits down with Dianna Hetzel, founder of Mer Bleue Travel, to explore how a former educator and mom turned her love for healing travel into a luxury brand rooted in purpose.Dianna shares how a deeply personal trip helped her process grief, how travel shaped her children into globally-minded changemakers, and how launching a travel business gave her new identity and freedom as an empty nester. From building a brand that “makes everything feel beautiful” to overcoming mindset hurdles around pricing and self-worth, this conversation is packed with honesty, clarity, and vision.Whether you're dreaming of starting your own travel business or looking for deeper meaning in the one you’ve built, this episode is a must-listen.Follow us on social media:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Host Meredith Calloway welcomes Tracy Husted of Legacy Travel Designs for a heartfelt conversation about building a travel business with intention. Tracy shares how she balanced part-time teaching with co-founding a successful agency, why she finally resigned from a 30-year education career, and how her grandmother’s legacy continues to shape her vision. Whether you’re side-hustling or standing at the edge of a big leap, Tracy’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t always fast—but it is worth it.Follow us on social media:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠