TravelPulse Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This week, I welcome Ladell Carter, founder of Royal Expression Travels, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the new worldwide travel alert, cruise line updates, and more.  Later, Carter and I chat about the top travel disasters and how to best avoid them. She provides insights on how advisors go above and beyond for the clients in time of need, as well as shares tips to fellow travel advisors on how they should handle a travel disaster scenario with their clients.  The discussion on avoiding travel disasters begins just before the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including anti-tourism protests in Europe, cruise ship incidents, and a naughty tourist.  Later, I welcome Cat Brask of Northstar Travel Group and Kathy Dold, owner of TWK Travel Group, to talk about the best tips and tricks to mastering travel industry events. Which events are right for you to attend? Brask and Dold share insights into this and more.  The discussion on events begins after the 12-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the Trump Administration's recent actions impacting travel, updates for Newark airport, and much more.  Later, I welcome Misty Belles, Vice President of Global Public Relations for Virtuoso. Belles and I discuss the expectations for the 2025 summer travel season, what destinations are trending, and more. She also shares her advice for what advisors can do to maximize their summer.  The discussion on theme parks begins after the 13-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Catalina Freeman, co-owner of Everlasting Travel Company, to the podcast to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the current state of air travel, travel advisory updates, and more.  Later, Freeman and I talk about the latest in the theme park world. Hear our thoughts on the brand new Epic Universe theme park and what Disney is up to this summer. Freeman shares her top tips for visiting, as well as advice for fellow travel advisors on selling theme parks.  The discussion on theme parks begins after the 13-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Angela Hughes, CEO of Trips and Ships Luxury Travel, to the podcast to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the DOT's new plan to overhaul the air traffic controller system, and much more.  Later, Hughes provides insights into what shifts she is seeing in consumers' travel behaviors today and how travel advisors can adapt. The interview on consumers' shifting behaviors begins after the 16-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, United's fiasco at Newark, and much more.  Later, hear my thoughts on Mexico's rising tourism destination: the Baja California region. Additionally, hear my interviews with Miguel Aguíñiga, Secretary of Tourism for Baja California, México and then with Gustavo Ortega, founder of El Cielo Winery & Resort – one of our host resorts at last week’s FAM experience ahead of Tianguis Turistico. The interviews on Mexico's rising tourism destination begin after the 12-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: the Globus family of brands Let me tell you about one of the top tour operators in the industry, and that’s the Globus family of brands. They’ve got so many ways that you can bring the world to your clients, from vibrant, immersive touring with Globus, value-driven experiences of Cosmos, or the award-winning river cruises with Avalon Waterways. And the best thing about them is that they’re always here for you, as your true partner in travel. Whether it’s getting you the high commissions you deserve, making their travel advisor tools as user-friendly and accessible as possible, or providing dedicated experts to help you close groups, the Globus family of brands wants to send the message to all Travel Advisors saying “We’ve Got U”.  Visit https://agents.globusfamily.com to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Courtnie Nichols, owner of Travel Bash, to the podcast to first discuss trending news in the travel industry, including recession threats, free wifi on flights, and more.  Later, Nichols shares her top business tips for travel advisors. She provides insights on ways to grow and scale, having a CEO mindset, sharing advice for where advisors need to improve on and much more.  The discussion on business tips for travel advisors begins after the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: TTC Tour Brands Travel advisors, when it comes to finding the perfect tour for your clients, you need a partner that makes it easy. That’s why TTC Tour Brands is your #ONE Ultimate Partner. Visit agents.ttc.com to explore their six brands, including Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Contiki. They truly have a tour for any and everyone, from luxury to budget and everything in between. And the best part? You can book them all in one place! Visit agents.ttc.com—your #ONE place to book over 750 tours worldwide! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Debbie Brown, owner of SmartBird World Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including President Trump's tariffs, a crazy tourist, and more.  Later, Brown shares insights into navigating travel requirements in today's world and how the pandemic changed things. Brown provides tips for travel advisors to make sure they are secured with their clients and avoid the often overlooked requirements.  The discussion on navigating travel requirements begins after the 16-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: TTC Tour Brands Travel advisors, when it comes to finding the perfect tour for your clients, you need a partner that makes it easy. That’s why TTC Tour Brands is your #ONE Ultimate Partner. Visit agents.ttc.com to explore their six brands, including Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Contiki. They truly have a tour for any and everyone, from luxury to budget and everything in between. And the best part? You can book them all in one place! Visit agents.ttc.com—your #ONE place to book over 750 tours worldwide! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including travel brands' new April Fools jokes, air travel concerns, and more.  Later on the show, I welcome Whitney Ramirez, Senior Vice President, Sales, TTC Tour Brands North America and Ashley Woodring, Vice President of Sales, TTC Tour Brands North America, to the show to talk about the recent TTC Tour Week, and so much more. Ramirez and Woodring share insights on how travel advisors can earn 75k in commissions with TTC Tour Brands and the many tools they provide advisors.  The interview on touring the world with TTC Tour Brands begins after the 11-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: TTC Tour Brands Travel advisors, when it comes to finding the perfect tour for your clients, you need a partner that makes it easy. That’s why TTC Tour Brands is your #ONE Ultimate Partner. Visit agents.ttc.com to explore their six brands, including Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Contiki. They truly have a tour for any and everyone, from luxury to budget and everything in between. And the best part? You can book them all in one place! Visit agents.ttc.com—your #ONE place to book over 750 tours worldwide! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I welcome TravelPulse Senior Editor Mia Taylor and TravelPulse Associate Editor Lacey Pfalz to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including recent changes from US airlines, travel ban updates, and more.  Later, Taylor and Pfalz share insights into women's role in travel today. The two reporters provide highlights of their features on the state of women's equality in the travel industry and our annual Influential Women in Travel list, showcasing the many ways women are impacting the world.  The discussion on women's role in travel begins after the 12-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: TTC Tour Brands Travel advisors, when it comes to finding the perfect tour for your clients, you need a partner that makes it easy. That’s why TTC Tour Brands is your #ONE Ultimate Partner. Visit agents.ttc.com to explore their six brands, including Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Contiki. They truly have a tour for any and everyone, from luxury to budget and everything in between. And the best part? You can book them all in one place! Visit agents.ttc.com—your #ONE place to book over 750 tours worldwide! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.