TravelPulse Podcast

This week I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including top winners at the 2024 Travvy Awards, how Donald Trump's return to President could impact travel, and more.  Later in the show, I welcome three lovely guests: Melissa Cooper, Director of Marketing for Northstar Retail Travel Group, Danielle Stephens, a travel advisor with Divine Travel Design, and Jerry Estrada Jr, Director of Trade Events & Programs for Carnival Cruise Line.  Together we discuss the inaugural Travel Industry 40 Under 40. Stephens and Estrada Jr. share insights into their career accomplishments and the challenges they overcame to get where they are today. Plus, they offer advice to young professionals aspiring to achieve similar success.  Today's episode sponsor: Travel Agent Academy  Travel Agent Academy provides you with the most advanced, interactive travel agent training available today on products sure to both impress and protect your clients – from popular destinations to top resorts around the world plus cruises and comprehensive travel insurance. The award-winning content is designed to help you learn and retain information in fun and interactive ways, and help increase bookings by empowering you to sell as a specialist. You’ll learn how to acquire a strong grasp of each product’s key selling points. You can gain credits, earn rewards, and even learn on the go on your tablet device. Learn more about these free programs at TravelAgentAcademy.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 welcome two guests: Christian Svoboda, owner of Beforeyoubookit.com, and Natalia Yepes, owner of Adventuresque Travel Boutique. Together we first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the Biden Administration's new inquiry into US airlines, Venice's tourist tax extension, and more.  Later, the three of us discuss our time at the 2024 Visit Portugal Travel Trade Marketplace event. Hear what Svoboda and Yepes thought of the event, their post event FAM trip experiences, and their top recommendations for what to do and see throughout Portugal.  The interview on Portugal begins just before the 16-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 Vanessa McGovern, Co-Founder and Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of Gifted Travel Network, to the podcast to first discuss trending news in the travel industry, including Cancun's airport change, Royal Caribbean's big announcement, and more.  Later, McGovern shares top tips for travel advisors. Hear her thoughts on how to grow your business, advice for dealing with tough clients, and so much more. McGovern also shares insights from some elite-level advisors in the Gifted Travel Network.  The interview on travel advisor tips begins at the 16-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 another Hurricane set to impact travel, new fees for frequent travelers and more.  Later, I welcome Master Foodie Mara Papatheodorou, a Tastes & Traditions Expert and Culinary Historian, to talk about the latest in culinary travel trends. Papatheodorou shares her insights into what the flavors of the moment are, trending destinations in the foodie scene, and more.  The interview on culinary travel trends begins shortly before the 8-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 Stephen Scott, founder of Travel Hub 365 and the Odyssey Travel App, back to the podcast to discuss top trending news, including Hurricane Helene's travel impact, big changes for Southwest Airlines, and more.  Later in the show we dive into the top emerging travel destinations around the world as well as the unique vacation experiences taking shape. Scott shares his insights into what trends he's seeing rise up in the world of travel.  The discussion on emerging travel destinations and experiences begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 booming travel industry numbers, updated passport renewal process, and much more.  Later, I welcome Alex Pinelo, Senior Vice President of Sales at AmaWaterways. Pinelo shares insights into what trends he's seeing in the river cruise industry. From hot destinations to unique and personalized experiences, Pinelo also highlights what's new with AmaWaterways.  The river cruise discussion begins after the 9-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 Shayla Northcutt, owner of Northcutt Travel Agency, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Cancun Airport issues arising, Boeing's latest hit, and much more.  Later, Northcutt shares insights into what she's seeing trending this fall travel season. Hear where people are planning for future trips now, why last minute travel is still hot, and more. She also gives her best advice on how fellow travel advisors can make this a great fall season.  The discussion on fall travel trends begins after the 15-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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'm joined by Jason Gewirtz, Executive Editor and Publisher, Sports Travel Magazine. We first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including record setting tourism numbers, new tourist taxes and more.  Later, Gewirtz shares insights into the growth of the sports travel world, from the youth level to colleges and the NFL. We also dive into how the Olympics performed and what's in store for the North American market with future Olympics and the World Cup.  The discussion on sports travel begins after the 13-minute mark. Today's episode sponsors: AmaWaterways  Invite your clients to explore the legendary Danube River on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. Guests will enjoy three of Europe’s Old-World capitals – Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary – along with the gorgeous UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley. A favorite of AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this 7-night Budapest round-trip cruise offers an itinerary-exclusive carriage ride through Vienna! Plus, you will earn up to a 15% commission rate on your client’s river cruise fare when you reserve their stateroom. Visit AmaWaterways.com/bestdanube to learn more about this incredible itinerary! 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 we're on location at the 2024 Future Leaders in Travel Retreat. I'm joined by Emma Weissmann, Executive Editor for TravelAge West to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including big changes in the EU, Uber launching self-driving cars, and more.  Later, we dive into what the Future Leaders event is all about. Emma shares insights into the logistics of this event, and we both discuss how Millennials and Gen-Z are shaping the travel industry. The conversation on the Future Leaders in Travel Retreat begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Allianz Global Assistance Looking for a travel insurance partner with a long, proven record? Or an innovator that helps you stay ahead of clients’ changing needs? With Allianz Partners, you don’t have to choose! Bring the right mix of strengths together to stand apart from the competition with a proven record of supporting travelers 24/7 across the globe—plus a trailblazing approach that complements a traditional, customer-first ethos. Discover the Allianz Advantage at AllianzAdvantage.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 welcome Mary Hanna, owner of Simply Mary’ed Travel, to the podcast first to discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry. We dive into Labor Day travel trends, Boeing's woes, and more.  Later, Hanna shares insights into the most popular and most difficult specialized travel niches out there. Additionally, Hanna offers advice to travel advisors on mastering a specific niche to grow their business.  The discussion on Specialized Travel Niches begins at the 13-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Allianz Global Assistance Looking for a travel insurance partner with a long, proven record? Or an innovator that helps you stay ahead of clients’ changing needs? With Allianz Partners, you don’t have to choose! Bring the right mix of strengths together to stand apart from the competition with a proven record of supporting travelers 24/7 across the globe—plus a trailblazing approach that complements a traditional, customer-first ethos. Discover the Allianz Advantage at AllianzAdvantage.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.

We're on location at Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, Nevada this week. I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Disney's big expansion announcements, a naughty Southwest Airlines employee, and much more.  Later, David Kolner, Executive Vice President at Virtuoso, joins the podcast to discuss the latest trends in luxury travel. Hear Kolner's thoughts on how the luxury travel sector is thriving, which destinations are hot right now, and much more.  The interview with Kolner begins just before the 14-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Allianz Global Assistance Looking for a travel insurance partner with a long, proven record? Or an innovator that helps you stay ahead of clients’ changing needs? With Allianz Partners, you don’t have to choose! Bring the right mix of strengths together to stand apart from the competition with a proven record of supporting travelers 24/7 across the globe—plus a trailblazing approach that complements a traditional, customer-first ethos. Discover the Allianz Advantage at AllianzAdvantage.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'm joined by Jenn Lee, President of Vacation Planners, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Hurricane Debby's travel impact, the aftermath of the global IT outage that disrupted travel, and so much more.  Later, Lee shares some hard truths for travel advisors and the tough choices they need to make. From charging fees to planning for the future and working with AI, Lee provides insights for travel advisors to improve.  The discussion on hard truths for travel advisors begins around the 17-minute mark. Today’s episode sponsor: Allianz Global Assistance Looking for a travel insurance partner with a long, proven record? Or an innovator that helps you stay ahead of clients’ changing needs? With Allianz Partners, you don’t have to choose! Bring the right mix of strengths together to stand apart from the competition with a proven record of supporting travelers 24/7 across the globe—plus a trailblazing approach that complements a traditional, customer-first ethos. Discover the Allianz Advantage at AllianzAdvantage.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including travel prices dropping, a scary moment onboard an American Airlines flight, and much more.  Later, I interview Finn Ackermann, Chief Commercial Officer with Iberostar Hotels & Resorts. Ackermann shares what's new with the hotel brand, including insights into why Aruba was picked for the newest hotel JOIA Aruba by Iberostar. He also shares the details of Iberostar's new hotel branding segments and closes it with a message to travel advisors.  The interview with Ackermann begins just before the 10-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: JOIA Aruba by Iberostar Travel advisors, get ready for a new standard of luxury and sustainability on the island of Aruba with JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, the group’s newest 5-star beachfront resort. Located along Aruba’s world-famous Eagle Beach, this beautiful, 240 suite Caribbean resort is perfect for your clients wanting to plan a celebratory getaway as well as for those seeking rest and relaxation. Guests will appreciate the horseshoe shaped design of the resort that maximizes sea views and captures a vacation mood. Learn more at Iberostar.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.  The TravelPulse Podcast was recently named one of the Best Travel News Podcasts by FeedSpot.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I'm joined by two guests: Sharon Campbell, owner of Bespoke Travel Group, and Scott Hartbeck, European travel writer and podcaster. Together we first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including air travel improvements, Barcelona's resident spraying tourists with water, and more.  Later, the three of us dive into what else is hot in European travel right now, from lesser known destinations to Taylor Swift concerts and more. Plus, hear why Campbell and Hartbeck agree that you should add a rail train ride on your next European vacation.  The discussion on Europe's hot news begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: JOIA Aruba by Iberostar Travel advisors, get ready for a new standard of luxury and sustainability on the island of Aruba with JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, the group’s newest 5-star beachfront resort. Located along Aruba’s world-famous Eagle Beach, this beautiful, 240 suite Caribbean resort is perfect for your clients wanting to plan a celebratory getaway as well as for those seeking rest and relaxation. Guests will appreciate the horseshoe shaped design of the resort that maximizes sea views and captures a vacation mood. Learn more at Iberostar.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.  The TravelPulse Podcast was recently named one of the Best Travel News Podcasts by FeedSpot.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Hurricane Beryl, Boeing being sanctioned, a new bill to regenerate tourism in Hawaii, and more.  Later, I welcome Steve Solomon, Chief Commercial Officer at Airlines Reporting Corporation, to discuss the latest in the air travel industry. Solomon shares his thoughts on the current state of the industry, what recent changes in air travel have stood out to him the most, what air travel changes we'd like to see in the future, and much more.  The interview on the air travel industry begins just before the 10-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: JOIA Aruba by Iberostar Travel advisors, get ready for a new standard of luxury and sustainability on the island of Aruba with JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, the group’s newest 5-star beachfront resort. Located along Aruba’s world-famous Eagle Beach, this beautiful, 240 suite Caribbean resort is perfect for your clients wanting to plan a celebratory getaway as well as for those seeking rest and relaxation. Guests will appreciate the horseshoe shaped design of the resort that maximizes sea views and captures a vacation mood. Learn more at Iberostar.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'm joined by Adam Duckworth, President and Founder of Travelmation, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including Barcelona's plan to ban short-term rentals, Netflix's new entertainment venues, and much more.  Later, Duckworth and I dive into the top travel trends for this summer season. Duckworth shares which destinations have been booking hot, what's impacting travelers' decision-making, and how to navigate last-minute summer travel trips.  The discussion on summer travel begins before the 20-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Globus family of brands  Do you have clients asking you about guided touring in exciting destinations? How about river cruising? If you do, you’ve probably heard of Globus family of brands, including Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways. The family of brands has ALSO just launched a new Travel Advisor Portal with exciting enhancements like the ability to share their itineraries with YOUR contact details, not to mention new training modules that get you access to exciting perks and Travel Advisor discounts. Check it out at traveladvisorportal.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'm joined by Becky Lukovic, owner of Bella Travel Planning, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including big theme park updates, the FAA's new investigation, and much more.  Later, Lukovic and I chat on the issue of overtourism and the top destinations facing these problems. Lukovic provides insights on how it is impacting her job as a travel advisor and offers advice for her peers.  The discussion on overtourism begins before the 20-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Globus family of brands  Do you have clients asking you about guided touring in exciting destinations? How about river cruising? If you do, you’ve probably heard of Globus family of brands, including Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways. The family of brands has ALSO just launched a new Travel Advisor Portal with exciting enhancements like the ability to share their itineraries with YOUR contact details, not to mention new training modules that get you access to exciting perks and Travel Advisor discounts. Check it out at traveladvisorportal.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.  Be sure to subscribe to the TravelPulse Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, TuneIn, and Stitcher.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including a wild week for American Airlines, the latest in Disney-DeSantis headlines, and much more.  Later, hear my interview with Zane Kerby, President and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors. I caught up with Kerby at the 2024 Travel Advisor conference. Tune in to hear where he was at when he found out ASTA's grassroots efforts had paid off with American Airlines' big decision, how ASTA changed up their annual conference, and much more.  The interview with Kerby begins after the 11-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: Globus family of brands  Do you have clients asking you about guided touring in exciting destinations? How about river cruising? If you do, you’ve probably heard of Globus family of brands, including Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways. The family of brands has ALSO just launched a new Travel Advisor Portal with exciting enhancements like the ability to share their itineraries with YOUR contact details, not to mention new training modules that get you access to exciting perks and Travel Advisor discounts. Check it out at traveladvisorportal.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 the travel industry, including the State Department's recent worldwide travel warning, projections for Memorial Day weekend, and much more.  Later, I welcome two guests: Alicia Evanko-Lewis, Executive Vice President, Events at Northstar Travel Group, and Christen Perry, owner of Classic Travel Connection.  Together we discuss the events space in the travel industry. Evanko-Lewis provides insights into how the events space is doing in travel and the toughest part about putting on an event. Perry shares her thoughts on why it's so vital for travel advisors to attend events, as well as her best tips and practices.  The events in travel discussion begins after the 10-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy Looking for a vacation that's beyond the ordinary? Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled luxury and adventure with All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy. From the sun-kissed shores of Barbados and Jamaica to the lush landscapes of Mexico and Costa Rica, they bring you to the most coveted destinations. Whether you're traveling with your partner, family, friends, or flying solo, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy® caters to your every whim. They specialize in crafting authentic moments that resonate with your unique travel style. And here's the best part – as a Bonvoy member, you unlock unlimited travel possibilities. The longer you stay, the more benefits you enjoy. Learn more at all-inclusive.marriott.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 welcome Tyson Wharton, owner of Sioux Empire Travel, back to the podcast. We first discuss top trending travel news, including top U.S. airlines suing the Biden Administration, Boeing's continued woes, summer travel pricing, and more.  Later, we answer the question: who are the MVPs of the travel industry? Listen to hear what travel advisors can offer their clients, a special shoutout to Moms, as well as Wharton's advice for having an MVP-like summer travel season.  The discussion on MVPs of travel begins after the 17-minute mark.  Today’s episode sponsor: All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy Looking for a vacation that's beyond the ordinary? Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled luxury and adventure with All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy. From the sun-kissed shores of Barbados and Jamaica to the lush landscapes of Mexico and Costa Rica, they bring you to the most coveted destinations. Whether you're traveling with your partner, family, friends, or flying solo, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy® caters to your every whim. They specialize in crafting authentic moments that resonate with your unique travel style. And here's the best part – as a Bonvoy member, you unlock unlimited travel possibilities. The longer you stay, the more benefits you enjoy. Learn more at all-inclusive.marriott.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.