TRAVELING

Thanks for joining us for another great episode of TRAVELING Podcast with our guest Bob Lynch, President & Founder at SponsorUnited. Presented by HIP Network, Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP. In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Bob will give us a breakdown of his revolutionary SponsorUnited platform, what new brand categories and data centric tools emerged during the pandemic, how event organizers can better understand the goals of their customers and much more.  Guest BIO:Bob LynchPresident & FounderSponsorUnitedLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbylynch/Bob Lynch is a sports and entertainment marketing executive and entrepreneur. He has driven advertising sales (Entercom Communications - Red Sox / Celtics Radio Networks, iHeart Media, Westwood One), led major sports & entertainment sponsorship entities (Miami Dolphins, Sun Life Stadium, Brooklyn Nets, NY Islanders, Barclays Center) and in 2018 introduced a ground-breaking technology platform for sponsorship properties, brands and agencies to identify, connect, execute and measure in the smartest, fastest way possible. Current partnerships span 1,000+ NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL teams, global brands as well as major sports and entertainment events, agencies and media entities.Support the show

Thanks for joining us for another great episode of TRAVELING Podcast with our guest Eric Ricaurte, Founder at Greenview. As always, the Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). Dan will also give us a recap of his Las Vegas site visit to Caesars Forum, LVCC West Building and Resorts World. Eric Ricaurte Discussion Points:Did the pandemic stall or accelerate the travel, tourism and event industry's focus on sustainability?From a consumer perspective, are we seeing a cultural shift or refocus on sustainable travel, lodging and transport?What is the new role the Biden Administration will play in climate change?How big of a role will carbon emissions play in our industry? What role will diversify, equity and inclusion play into global brands sustainability policies moving forward?What current reporting standards or framework should event organizers, venues and host destinations utilize to report upon their sustainability impact?As we shift towards recovery, what steps can the industry take towards tracking and communicating environmental, social and economic progress?Guest BIO:Eric RicaurteFounderGreenviewLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericricaurte/Eric founded Greenview in 2008, an international consultancy catalyzing innovation and best practice in sustainability and ESG, providing services for strategy, programs, data management, benchmarking, and reporting. Greenview’s clients include most of the largest hotel companies as well as hotel owners and developers, event organizers, cruise lines, NGOs, DMOs, OTAs and industry organizations including the WTTC and UNWTO. With 20 years of hands-on experience, Eric is a frequent speaker, convener, and researcher on the topic of sustainability. His notable industry work includes launching the Cornell Hotel Sustainability Benchmarking Index, Green Lodging Trends Report, Destination Water Risk Index, Hotel Global Decarbonisation Report, and Hotel Owners for Tomorrow Coalition. Eric is a member of the UFI Committee on Sustainable Development and the International Standards Working Group of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Prior to founding Greenview, Eric specialized in the operations and development of nature-based lodges, theme parks and attractions in Costa Rica, Mexico, and Brazil. Eric earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration and a Master of Science degree in Tourism & Travel Management from New York University. He has held a research fellowship at the Cornell University Center for Hospitality Research and been an adjunct instructor at New York University.Support the show

Thanks for joining us for the Season 2 kick-off with our guest Ken Holsinger, Senior Vice President, Digital Solutions at Freeman. As always, the Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Ken will give us a deep dive on the new Freeman Event Research and Insights Report showing the majority of attendees and exhibitors in the U.S. plan to return to face-to-face events by the fall of 2021. According to the study, 78 percent of attendees expect to attend in-person events in fall 2021, increasing to 94 percent by winter. Exhibitors are slightly more optimistic with 80 percent returning this fall, 95 percent will do so by winter.Discussion Points:Will the vaccine rollout propel confidence and interest in returning to large in-person events?What industries will return to in-person first?Will corporate travel restrictions inhibit a successful return to in-person events?What are the key elements to successfully execute a hybrid strategy?5 core areas of focus for 2021 and beyondFreeman Event Research and Insights Report BIO:Ken HolsingerSenior Vice President, Data SolutionsFreemanLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenholsinger/Ken serves as Senior Vice President of Data Solutions at Freeman and has over 25 years of experience in technology, media and event production as a lead executive, consultant, and speaker. He has served on the executive team in various roles for several different organizations. In addition, he has a background in event management, facility design, and start-up operations.Ken leads the Data Practice for Freeman bringing together teams that are building innovative data science tools for integration and business intelligence, with data consulting, research, and industry benchmarking. These teams work with clients all over the world to drive decisions, improve results and measure their marketing efforts. In his role with Freeman, Ken works with their largest customers like Microsoft, Google, SAP, Intel, Cisco as well as consulting with the leading trade and industry associations to define their digital technology and data measurement infrastructure for their event portfolios.Ken has been named on multiple hardware, software and process patents. Ken is a frequent presenter on numerous topics in the events, technology, and data-science space. In 2019 Ken was named as a finalist for the Visionary Award from The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Ken also actively involved in his local community in Boise, Idaho as a startup mentor and tech workforce development leader.Support the show

That's a wrap for Season 1! Thanks for joining us on Episode 27 as we discuss the biggest stories and trendlines in 2020, which include: Navigating the Global Pandemic, Pivot to Virtual, Government Inaction, DEI and The Future of Meetings and Events. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP. In addition, we'll look back on our first season and share insights our personal insights on each episode which featured: Tony Lorenz, Erik Moses, Tracy Judge, Brad Weaber, Joyce Leveston, Elliott Ferguson, Mike Dominquez, Jeff Borman, Bill Lynch, Brett Sullivan, Butch Spyridon, Kimberly Lewis, Tamara Kennedy-Hill, Liz King, John Toner, Derek Gaskins, Johnnie White, Allison Parc, Lisa Messina, David DuBois, Allison Kafalas and Dennis Edwards. The Traveling Podcast is presented by HIP Network, a B2B digital media company shaping the industry’s agenda with expertly curated content that fuels growth. To learn more visit www.HipNetwork.com and be sure to sign up for the Market in a Minute tri-weekly newsletter for a real-time roundup of the current state of the industry. Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 25 as we discuss the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter).In addition, we'll look back on our first season and share personal insights about diversity, equity and inclusion from Kimberly Lewis, Tamara Kennedy-Hill, Joyce Leveston and Brad Weaber. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 24 as we discuss the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter).In addition, we'll look back on our first season and reflect on how industry leaders navigated their organizations, staff and community through the COVID-19 pandemic with insights from  Butch Spyridon, Denny Edwards and Derek Gaskins. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 23 as we discuss the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter).In addition, we'll look back on our first season and reflect on the importance of mentorship with insights from Mike Dominguez, Elliott Ferguson, Allison Parc and Bill Lynch. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 22 with our guest Dennis Edwards, President & CEO at Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Denny will share his insight on new strategic investments into destination asset visualization tools, why sports will help power the travel rebound, how Raleigh is emerging as a global Esports leader and preparing for the return of live events. Dennis EdwardsPresident & CEOGreater Raleigh Convention & Visitors BureauLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-edwards-639030a/ BIO:Denny is the President and CEO for the Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau whose role is to sell and market Greater Raleigh as a tourist and meetings destination. The GRCVB has a staff of 32 people and an annual budget of $8.2 million. He has served in this capacity since April 2007.Prior to joining the GRCVB, Denny served as the Senior Vice President for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau for ten years. A 38 year CVB veteran, Denny was also the Director of Sales for the Greater Houston CVB and prior to that served as the Director of Sales for the Palm Springs Desert Resorts CVB.He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Travel & Tourism Coalition, East Carolina Hospitality Management Advisory Board, Wake County Economic Development and the Regional Transportation Alliance. Denny served on the Board of Directors for the American Society of Association Executives, Professional Convention Management Association and Destinations International where he also served on the Foundation Board. He was an APEX Commissioner for the Convention Industry Council and also served on the International Association of Exhibitions and Events Exhibitor Advisory Council and is a past President for the Florida Chapter. Denny received the Business Leader 2009 Triangle Mover and Shaker Award. An Iowa native, Denny is a graduate from the University of Northern Iowa where he received a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Public Relations and minors in Business and Marketing. He and his wife Cindy have two boys Bryce and Drake. Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 21 with our guest Allison Kafalas, Director of Beverage, Americas at Hilton Hotels. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, our guest Allison Kafalas will share what makes a hotel brand stand out, her vision for creating an immersive food and beverage experiences, searching for the next big cocktail or spirt, how entrepreneurs can gain a foothold with buyers and much more..Allison KafalasDirectory of Beverage, AmericasHilton HotelsLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-glassman-kafalas-b5a72529/ BIO:Allison Kafalas is the Director of Beverage, Americas, for Hilton Hotels. In her role, Allison is responsible for anything and everything beverage-related within the full service and luxury brands within Hilton (including Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, Canopy, Hilton, Embassy Suites and Double Tree).Allison started her professional career in hospitality working for Starwood Hotels & Resorts.  During her 10 years with Starwood, she moved across departments and disciplines including Operations, Marketing, Brand Management, and Food & Beverage.  In her role as Director of Food & Beverage, North America, Allison ran the National Beverage program for the 9 full-service brands under the Starwood umbrella.  As well, she was responsible for marketing initiatives and Banquets & Catering projects.  After Starwood, Allison switched hospitality channels and entered the airport space.  She held the title of Director of Beverage for OTG Management, an upscale, design-led airport concessionaire company that spanned 10 airports with over 100 unique full-service restaurant concepts.  Allison earned her Bachelor’s Degree from New York University in Hotel & Tourism Management.  She resides in NYC with her husband and very spirited 2 ½ year old son.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 20 with our guest David DuBois, President & CEO at International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). Our guest, David DuBois will share his thoughts on the current group business travel environment, the ongoing pandemic and how IAEE and other industry associations are advocating for the protection of the events through new legislation. In addition, David gives an update on the 2020 Expo! Expo! hybrid event taking place in Louisville this coming December. David DuBoisPresident & CEOInternational Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-dubois-cae-cmp-fasae-cta-3a130a48/ BIO:David DuBois is the President and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events™ (IAEE). As IAEE’s president, DuBois is responsible for the management of 23 full-time professional staff, producing the annual business operating plan and budget, overseeing the support of all meetings of governance units, leading business development, directing fund raising efforts, advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. Also, he serves as the association’s representative with industry coalitions, partner organizations and strategic alliances.DuBois began his career with Sheraton Corporation in various sales positions including Regional Director of Sales and the Director of Marketing Programs. He has served as both President and CEO, and Senior Vice President at the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) where he was responsible for all operations and a $7 million budget. As Senior Vice President he managed the development of 15 new chapters and was responsible for magazine advertising sales and membership recruitment and retention. DuBois has also served as both the Chief Operating Officer at Meeting Professionals International (MPI) from 1996-2000. During this time, he supported programs and services for more than 16,000 members worldwide, and served as the Executive Vice President of the MPI Foundation. David has also served as MPI’s Vice President of Sales and Key Account Management and Vice President of Corporate Services.Most recently, DuBois has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau where he had oversight and full responsibility of 42 staff, with the responsibility of attracting convention and tourism business with a $8.5 million budget.DuBois has also served as a board member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE); Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Texas Society of Association Executives; board member and Chairman of the Dallas Fort Worth Tourism Council; and board member of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves as Immediate Past Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Convention Industry Council (CIC). He also serves on the Boardof Directors for the Meetings Mean Business Coalition and the U.S. Travel Association.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 19 with our guest Lisa Messina, Vice President of Sales at Caesars Entertainment. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events, hospitality and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Lisa will share how looking outside of the hospitality industry helps craft her strategic business approach. How Caesars Entertainment is navigating the new realities of contracting future group business travel opportunities, managing the health and wellness of her team members and how intermediaries are positioned to maximize this unique moment in time. Lisa MessinaVice President of SalesCaesars EntertainmentLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasmessina/ BIO:Lisa Messina is the Vice President of Sales for Caesars Entertainment.  In her role, Lisa leads a nationwide team of 160 sales professionals who represent and contract meetings and events for 80 properties within the United States.Upon graduating from the Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, Lisa built an extensive resume holding sales leadership roles for the past 25 years with some of the most recognized names in hospitality including Hilton, Hyatt, Wyndham, ConferenceDirect, and now Caesars Entertainment.  She has worked major markets around the country in local, regional and global levels.  Originally from New Jersey, Lisa has lived in Las Vegas for the past 10 years with her husband Joe and two dogs Chuck, a chocolate Labrador retriever and Frankie, a white Labrador retriever.  They enjoy being active and outdoors and taking in all the natural amenities the Las Vegas area has to offer.  Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 17 with our guest Johnnie White, Chief Executive Officer and EVP at American Society of Appraisers. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, hospitality, sports and tourism (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Johnnie will give us a snapshot of how he navigated the association marketplace, working his way up from the IT department to CEO. As an industry leader and innovator, he explains how continuous learning helped build out his skillsets and maximized professional opportunities. Why he subscribes to the mantra known as “The Mamba Mentality” famously developed by Kobe Bryant which empowers him to be the best version of himself. And how the meetings and events community can make changes towards recognizing unconscious bias to help influence change globally.Johnnie WhiteChief Executive Officer/EVPAmerican Society of Appraisers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnniewhiteceo/BIO:Johnnie White, CEO, Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice President, of the American Society of Appraisers is an association professional with close to 30 years serving in a variety of management and leadership roles. In addition, White serves as an adjunct faculty member of Georgetown University and the Northern Virginia Community College. White holds his M.B.A. from University of Maryland University College. He has served in volunteer leadership roles for the American Society of Association Executives and the Professional Convention Management Association and has received numerous awards and recognitions for his association work. Connect online with Johnnie at ASA, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 16 with our guest Derek Gaskins, Chief Marketing Officer at Yesway. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Derek will dive into how business travel informs his perception of reality, leading teams within convenience retail during the pandemic, changing consumer buying habits, executing your marketing playbook during challenging times and how loyalty programs can help maximize the customer experience.  Derek GaskinsChief Marketing OfficerYeswayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekgaskins/ BIO:Mr. Gaskins’ primary responsibility is to direct all marketing, merchandising and procurement efforts for the Yesway brand, as well as to develop relationships with Yesway’s supplier vendors.  He leads the efforts to establish a marketing and merchandising playbook to improve the organizations go to market strategic plan.  He also helps to further cultivate the growth and stewardship of the fast growing Yesway brand with a keen focus on ensuring the organizations social, mobile, and loyalty initiatives are best in class.Prior to joining Yesway, Mr. Gaskins most recently served as Chief Customer Officer for Rutter’s convenience stores & Dairy business.  He was instrumental in developing their award winning customer engagement programs and positioned the brand as one of the best in the retail industry.  Before Rutter’s, Mr. Gaskins was Senior Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising with Mid-Atlantic Convenience Stores (MACS) and led the development of the Circle K brand.  Prior to MACS he served as Vice President of Marketing with NACS- The Association for Convenience and Fuel Retailing and positioned the organization for unprecedented digital and global growth.  His other prior experiences include leading the brand marketing for Giant Eagle where he led the development of the GetGo chain of convenience stores, and launched the Fuelperks fuel rewards loyalty program.His other prior experiences include a number of major companies including Nabisco Foods, Goldman Sachs, and Procter & Gamble.  He is an experienced brand developer, chief marketer, merchant, and innovator that has launched numerous packaged goods, CRM and retail brands and store formats.  Mr. Gaskins holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Iowa and an MBA in Finance, Marketing, and Real Estate from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 15 with our guest John Toner, Vice President, Convention & Industry Relations at United Fresh Produce Association. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, John will discuss the impact of decision making within the event planning life-cycle, climbing the food chain at the United Fresh Produce Association, the value of networking and relationships, helping people live healthier lives and the new involvement of the C-Suite in strategic event decisions. John TonerVice President, Convention & Industry RelationsUnited Fresh Produce Association LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtonerv/John Toner BIO:For more than two decades, John Toner, V has helped bring the produce industry together as vice president, convention and industry collaboration at the United Fresh Produce Association. He gets his daily thrills from helping craft the perfect opening night reception, finding a great product for an independent grower-shipper with a problem and securing a big sponsorship. He is obsessed with creating the perfect environment for his members to make new friends, gather good advice and see the best new products the industry has to offer. In fact, at the end of each year's convention, instead of feeling tired and worn out like any reasonable association professional, he feels energized and ready to tackle the next year’s convention. He is known for his love of scotch, his snazzy bowties and the huge smile always on his face.Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 14 with our guest Liz Caruso (King), CEO at Liz King Events. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Liz will share her thoughts on entrepreneurship, event technology, virtual event platforms and strategy, hybrid events, sponsorship ROI and the future on "communities". Liz Caruso (King)CEOLiz King EventsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkingevents/ Upcoming Events: techsytalk global - A Virtual Experience - Nov 17-18, 2020Liz Caruso (King):Liz King Caruso is an Event Specialist, Consultant & Speaker who is passionate about impactful, successful & fun events. Liz launched Liz King Events while still running events FT for Columbia University and quickly became a thought leader/influencer amongst her peers after voraciously sharing content on event best practices.Liz works with thought leaders like Ramit Sethi, Microsoft, SeatGeek, Teamworthy Ventures, Ramon Ray and many others to host strategic conferences and events that engage their audience, build their brand and sell their products and services.She also works with other independent event hustlers to help them run more successful businesses through her consulting program called IGNITE. IGNITE helps amazing planners tap into their brilliance and build their thought leadership so they can get more of the right clients and become more financially stable. In addition, Liz ran one of the most iconic event-tech conference in the industry called techsytalk LIVE.Liz has been featured in Successful Meetings list of 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry, Connect Magazine's list of 40 Under 40 Up-and-Coming Event Planners, and Meetings and Conventions list of Top Influential Female Leaders in the Events Industry, amongst other awards. Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 13 with our guests Tamara Kennedy-Hill, Founder at Kennedy-Hill Strategies and Kimberly Lewis, Senior Vice President, Market Transformation & Development at USGBC. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Tamara and Kimberly will share their thoughts on how event organizers can reframe the conversation around people, communities and economic empowerment. Why building alliances, diversifying your supply chain and seeking host destination partnerships can drive equitable access for communities of color. Tamara Kennedy-HillFounderKennedy-Hill StrategiesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarakennedyhill/Kimberly LewisSenior Vice President, Market Transformation & DevelopmentUSGBCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-lewis-4732555/ Kimberly Lewis:As Senior Vice President of Market Transformation and Development for the US Green Building Council (USGBC) with over 20 years of experience and accomplishments, Kimberly Lewis knows better than anyone that market transformation begins with people. Kimberly is a catalyst and executive leader in the global green building movement, championing the critical issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion as the center of the sustainability and climate agenda worldwide. Kimberly directs USGBC’s 40 US local community advancement teams along with members, volunteers and emerging professionals around the world delivering on the USGBC mission to improve the quality of life for all through more sustainable buildings, cities, and communities worldwide.Kimberly serves as the chair of the board of directors for Groundswell, a nonprofit community solar and energy equity leader with the mission of building community power. She also serves on the board for PaceNation as the diversity, equity, and inclusion thought leader. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Tamara-Kennedy-Hill:Tamara Kennedy-Hill, Principal at Kennedy-Hill Strategies, LLC works with business and nonprofit leaders to design strategic impact solutions and mission driven results applying principles of change management, community engagement and tested equity, diversity and inclusion system change modeling.   Kennedy-Hill brings her over twenty years of experience from Destination Management, Tourism, Global Sustainable Meeting Design, Team Building, and Nonprofit Management to work with leaders to embrace equity and build systemic change in their organizations and communities. Kennedy-Hill currently serves on the boards of Black United Fund of Oregon, Greater Portland Economic Development District and Transition Projects.  She holds an MBA in Nonprofit Management from the University of Portland and a bachelor’s degree in Communications, with emphasis in adult learning theory and conflict resolution, from Marylhurst University.  Support the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 12 with our guest Butch Spyridon, President & CEO at Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Butch will share his thoughts on reinventing Nashville through developing a long-term destination branding strategy, driving group business demand, selling the NFL on hosting one of their largest live events ever and leading through crisis. Butch SpyridonPresident & CEONashville CVCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/butch-spyridon-120a399/ Bio: Butch Spyridon has served as the head of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp (NCVC) since 1991. Under his leadership, the NCVC has led the strategic development of Nashville’s hospitality industry, and Music City has evolved into a top global destination, generating over $7 billion in visitor spending annually.During Butch’s tenure, the NCVC has been involved with development initiatives that include the Tennessee Titans, Bridgestone Arena, July 4th, New Year’s Eve, the Music City Center, Music City Walk of Fame, and the city’s branding. He also helped lead efforts to bring British Airways’ nonstop flight to London in 2018 and he led the recruitment and execution of the 2019 NFL Draft, which became the most successful event in NFL history.In addition, the NCVC has produced two award-winning documentary films, winning Silver Lion Awards at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Combined with the NCVC ongoing sales and marketing initiatives, Nashville hotel demand has grown faster than any other top 30 US city since 2013 and was named a top destination in the world by multiple publications for eight consecutive years.Spyridon serves on the Executive Committee of the U.S. Travel Association and as Chair of Destinations International.Raised in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Spyridon graduated from Vanderbilt University. He is a graduate of the Institute of Comparative Political and Economic Systems at Georgetown University. He and his wife, Sunny, have four children and five grandchildren.The Traveling Podcast is Presented by: HIP NetworkHIP Network is a B2B digital media company shaping the hospitality industry’s agenda with expertly curated content that fuels growth. To learn more, please visit www.HipNetwork.comSupport the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 11 with our guest Brett Sullivan, Vice President of Sales at NBC Sports Washington. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Brett will share his thoughts on navigating the sports media ecosystem, the importance of networking and relationship building, sports gambling trends, the future of Esports and how analytics are powering brands multi-platform advertising spend.  Brett SullivanVice President of SalesNBC Sports WashingtonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettasullivan/ Bio: Brett Sullivan is Vice President of Sales for NBC Sports Washington, the official sports network of the Washington Capitals, Wizards and the Washington Football Team. Prior to his current role overseeing all local and national advertising revenue, Sullivan led digital sales for all NBC Sports Regional Networks across the country. Sullivan has also held roles with the National Hockey League, Team Services (sports marketing agency) and the Washington Capitals in addition to serving as an Adjunct Professor in Georgetown University’s Sports Industry Management program.Sullivan graduated from Villanova University and resides in Potomac, MD with his wife and three kids.The Traveling Podcast is Presented by: HIP NetworkHIP Network is a B2B digital media company shaping the hospitality industry’s agenda with expertly curated content that fuels growth. To learn more, please visit www.HipNetwork.comSupport the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 10 with our guest Bill Lynch, CEM, Interim President at Specialty Food Association. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by industry veterans Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports (subscribe to the Market in a Minute newsletter). In addition, Bill will share his thoughts on a climbing the association ladder, the evolution of the Fancy Food Show, bridging the face-to-face and virtual gap and forecasting the future of the trade show industry.Bill Lynch, CEMInterim PresidentSpecialty Food AssociationLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wjlynch/Bio: Bill Lynch has over 20 years of experience in a range of different organizations including event marketing, media and all aspects of a trade association. Over the course of his career, Bill has lead a variety of award-winning trade shows in various industries; created a customer service department servicing over 40,000 customers; ran office operations for a staff of 50+; lead production for an industry-leading magazine; and lead a membership team that produced double-digit membership growth along with new program/service development.Currently Interim President at the SFA, Bill is accountable for leading an organization that is focused on creating and delivering value for its 4,000+ member companies through increasing members sales and profits while building community and connection to support a thriving specialty food industry.Bill is passionate about what he does and he cares for the people he works with. An excellent leader and representative for a fantastic organization that is constantly innovating for the $148 billion specialty food industry. Outside of work, Bill is focused on family and their involvement in local community activities.The Traveling Podcast is Presented by: HIP NetworkHIP Network is a B2B digital media company shaping the hospitality industry’s agenda with expertly curated content that fuels growth. To learn more, please visit www.HipNetwork.comSupport the show

Thanks for joining us on Episode 9 with our guest Jeff Borman, Founder at travelINNsights. The Traveling Podcast is hosted by Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth, CMP.In this episode we'll touch on the top stories in group business travel, live events and sports. In addition, Jeff will share his thoughts on a recent AHLA owners confidence survey, the role of government protecting hotel foreclosures, hotel supply growth, driving leverage within a buyers market, factors to get large-scale events back and much more. Jeff BormanFounder, travelINNsightsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffborman/Bio: Jeff Borman is the Founder at travelInnsights and has over two decades of global leadership in hospitality, travel and tourism. Previously, Jeff served as VP Asset Management, Revenue Management at Park Hotels & Resorts, VP Revenue Management, Franchise at Hilton, VP Revenue Management Operations at Marriott.The Traveling Podcast is Presented by: HIP NetworkHIP Network is a B2B digital media company shaping the hospitality industry’s agenda with expertly curated content that fuels growth. To learn more, please visit www.HipNetwork.comSupport the show