Tourpreneur is a community of passionate tour business owners eager to improve their skills and increase their profits. Our community is passionate about helping each other. As small tour business owners, we understand it’s a lonely job, a daily grind, and easy to become a busy fool… working harder but not smarter. The Tourpreneur community helps you get advice from your peers as well as experts in the areas you need to grow your business and make it more profitable. Whether you explore our ...
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Do you love travel? Are you always searching for the absolute best experiences? Join us each week for an insightful chat with some of luxury travel’s most iconic people. We’ll interview travel experts like Robert Bowe who has been part of the guest experience at Ashford Castle for 33 years; Jamie Gaymer, the lead conservation manager at an ultra-luxe safari lodge; or the Owners and General Managers of some of the world’s top hotels like Amangiri, Canaves Oia, and Zannier Hotels. You’ll leave ...
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This podcast series celebrates travel as a way of life with stories of cool people doing cool stuff in a cool industry; folks who’ve built lives in travel and those whose lives have been changed by travel.
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I didn’t set out to become a paid speaker or a professional podcaster. But those things happened. And it all began the day I started telling one simple personal story. You have a story like that. On The Aaron Schlein Story, I share everything I learn about building your personal network, expanding your influence, and monetizing your expertise. It all starts with that ONE damn story.
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Hong Kong | Rosewood GM, Hugo Montanari: Urban Gardens, People Watching, and a Sense of Place
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Today we’re heading to the bustling, yet beautiful metropolis of Hong Kong. Instead of telling you about it in my own words today, I have a couple quotes that I think really sum it up: Journalist Peter Lindberg “Life in Hong Kong transcends cultural and culinary borders, such that nothing is truly foreign and nothing doesn’t belong.” And then a lit…
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Maintaining Profit Margins and Growth in High-Demand Destination
48:21
48:21
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Host Peter Syme sits down with Ambrose Bittner, a seasoned operator of private customised tours across Asia. They delve into the intricacies of running a tour operation, touching on key aspects like process engineering, client communication, and the decision to outsource tasks versus keeping them in-house. Ambrose shares his journey through COVID-1…
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Today we’re diving into the world of private yacht charters. Whether you’re taking 30 of your best friends on a mega yacht or just want a nice 4 cabin catamaran for your family in the British Virgin Islands - there is a yacht out there for you! I grew up sailing and during Covid I took a course on yacht brokering, so we love planning this type of t…
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Today we’re headed to the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain, and zeroing in on Mallorca. This magical island boasts quaint mountain towns, stunning beaches, and is quintessentially Mediterranean. Think olive oil from hundred year old trees, oranges blossoming all over the island, and of course wine and local specialties. My guests today are E…
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Content Marketing Strategies to Grow Your Tour Business
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Visit tourpreneur.com for more show notes. Tourpreneur is hosting two conferences! Join us in November in Marrakesh, Morroco for CONNECT:Multi-day, and in February in New York City for CONNECT:Profit. More info here. In this episode, Lia Garcia, CEO of Practical Wanderlust and Louisville Food Tours, shares her journey from starting a blog to becomi…
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Easter Island/Rapa Nui | Expert Panel: Mystery, Moai, and Mana
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Today, we embark on a journey to a place shrouded in mystery — mesmerizing Easter Island. Nestled in the heart of the vast Pacific Ocean, this remote paradise beckons with its Moai statues, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. I previously thought a visit to Easter Island would be mostly focused around seeing the famous statues, but I no…
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Today we’re headed to Montenegro - where alpine mountains meet crystalline seas, where warmth and humor are still important, and where you can choose your own adventure between relaxing, exploring, or focusing on your health. My guest today is Tessa Gorman, the Managing Director of the gorgeous One & Only Portonovi in Montenegro. I love this episod…
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I can’t tell you how excited I have been for this trip and to be recording our first “On Location” episode of Luxury Travel Insider. While I love all my trips, this one is really special because Japan is brand new for me! Yep - I’ve been to over 100 countries and all 7 continents twice or more, but this is my first time here. I was supposed to visi…
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Beyond AirBNB: Essential Marketing and Partnership Strategies for Tour Operators
32:49
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In this episode, we'll unpack why building direct sales through SEO and website optimization, along with embracing paid advertising on platforms like Facebook, can be game-changing, despite being time-consuming. We'll also discuss the importance of feeding Google's business profile and the significance of robust content production for SEO and AI. B…
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Charting Growth: Strategies for Growing Your Tour Business - 261
1:06:04
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Guests Sherri Brown and Cherrye Moore discuss their experiences and the strategies that have helped them target new markets, focusing on both local and corporate sectors. Host Peter Syme shares his insights on effective pricing strategies, managing business growth, and best practices for training and integrating new team members. Throughout the epi…
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Paris | Summer Games 2024: The World of Sport Comes to the City of Light
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We’re taking another trip to Paris to learn more about the 2024 summer games, and about the history of the games in general. Our guest is Dave Guenther, Founder & President of Roadtrips - my go to partner when planning luxury travel centered around sporting events. And the partner I am traveling with to the Summer Games in Paris next year as well. …
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Scaling Your Tour Business: Innovations and Strategies for Modern Entrepreneurs
1:04:44
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Sean discusses his contemplation on expansion strategies, weighing the pros and cons of growing his market in Ireland versus entering new territories like the UK with self-guided hiking tours. Amidst these considerations, Peter advises maximizing existing operations before venturing into new markets, highlighting the complexities of establishing bu…
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Namibia | Tristan Cowley: Exploring the African Frontier
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37:06
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Today we’re heading back to Africa to spend some time in Namibia. If you don’t know much about Namibia - you’re about to be wowed. Whether it’s the massive sand dunes glowing in the sunset, the diversity of culture, or the uber unique wildlife that gets you - Namibia is sure to capture your heart. My guest today is Tristan Cowley, a born and raised…
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Today we’re visiting a country that I think is truly under-appreciated. A tropical paradise dotted with volcanoes, this destination is easy to get to and boasts amazing wildlife, interesting culture, and lots of active adventures. Joining me to chat all things Nicaragua are three experts in the region. Clark Kotula, who studied Nicaraguan politics …
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Best Practices for Building a Healthy & Inspired Team (w/ Peter McGovern)
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Peter McGovern, a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for international education gives us his forward-thinking approach to building successful teams. In this episode, we unpack the thoughtful approach to hiring, emphasizing the importance of aligning with organizational core values and mission. From creating detailed scorecards for potential cand…
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Faroe islands | Expert Panel: Peace & Quiet (and Puffins!)
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Today we’re headed well off the beaten path, to the area nestled between the North Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea. The secluded Faroe Islands boast rugged cliffs, emerald green landscapes, puffins galore, and a vibrant local culture for such a small population. You might come here for the hiking or the bird life, but what you’ll leave with is a sen…
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Austria | Expert Panel: Culture, Coffee, Cuisine, and Countryside
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Today we’re headed to a small country, nestled in the heart of Europe. Austria surprises and then charms its visitors with stunning Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and elegant imperial architecture. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apple strudel, want to hike in hills filled with the “Sound of Music,” or experience the famous cof…
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Nepal | Sangita Einhaus Shrestha: Dwarika’s, Where Guests are Gods
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Today we visit the magical country of Nepal. Known for soaring mountain peaks, gorgeous valleys, and the warmth of its people, Nepal is a country that captures hearts and minds like no other. My guest today is Sangita Shrestha, owner of Dwarika’s Hotel and Dwarika’s Resort, properties that have a deep purpose and mission to preserve Nepal’s cultura…
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Lessons & Opportunities in the Legacy Group Travel Market (w/ Brian Jewell)
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Mitch Bach talks with Brian Jewell, the Vice President and Executive Editor of Group Travel Leader, a media company representing tens of thousands of tour operators, travel agents, trip planners, many of whom have been in business for decades. Brian provides endless free resources for his community of small travel provider, and has learned countles…
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Today we’re winding our way down an idyllic country road in Ireland to the famed Adare Manor. Set in a charming village of thatched cottages, blooming rose gardens, and cobblestone streets, this jewel of County Limerick will have you wanting to come back over and over again. Joining me today is Brendon O’Connor, the General Manager of Adare Manor, …
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TP Call-in Show: Marketing Advise from Dan & Casey of Untethered Media
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In this episode, Dan & Casey from Untethered Media join Chris to delve deep into the strategies that make your marketing click. From the subtle art of Facebook ads that work like modern-day flyers, to the critical role of a well-designed website, we're covering all the bases. We'll explore why it's not just about selling but building trust with pot…
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The Maldives | Velaa Private Island: Hospitality Done Differently
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Today we’re headed back to the Indian Ocean to visit a slice of the Maldives. This archipelago, spanning 500 miles north to south, is the stuff dreams are made of. Landing in the Noonu Atoll, we’re diving into all things Velaa Private Island resort with its General Manager, Wayne Milgate. One of the most luxurious retreats in the world, Velaa Priva…
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Castello Di Vicarello | Owner, Neri Baccheschi Berti: Love at First Sight in Tuscany
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I’m excited for you to join me today in the southern part of Tuscany, an area called Maremma, and one we haven’t yet explored on the show. Here you’ll find sun-kissed olive groves, pristine stretches of coastline, and of course, gorgeous wines. We’re settling in at the stunning Castello di Vicarello for a chat with my friend, and the owner, Neri Ba…
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Azores & Madeira | Expert Panel: A Unique Expression of Portuguese Culture
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Today we’re venturing into the Atlantic, making stops on the islands of The Azores and Madeira. Imagine stunning verdant volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and temperate weather all year round. Don’t forget incredible food and a unique expression of Portuguese culture. My guests today are Filipe Fraga from Madeira and Beatriz Sousa from …
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How the New York Adventure Club crafts special-access experiences aimed at locals (w/ Corey William Schneider)
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Mitch Bach talks with Corey William Schneider, founder of the New York Adventure Club, about his unique approach to building a tour business focused on delivering unique, special-access experiences to primarily a crowd of locals. From those experiences, which grew out of his personal desire to explore more of his home of New York City with other li…
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AmaWaterways | President, Rudi Schreiner: The Past and Future of River Cruising
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My guest today is Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and President of AmaWaterways. AMA has been sharing its passion for river cruising around the world for more than 20 years, but Rudi has a deep history going back to the very beginnings of this type of travel. Rudi shares with us the history of river cruising, his fascinating personal history, some entre…
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French Polynesia | Raphael Bernard: Getting to the Heart of Tahiti
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Today we’re headed to experience a tapestry of turquoise lagoons, emerald-green islands, and coral-fringed shores. Whether you’re diving with sharks, climbing the ridge of a volcanic peak, or relaxing in your overwater bungalow - French Polynesia, or Tahiti for short - is sure to be nothing short of spectacular. We have a fun show for you today, wi…
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Guess Where Trips: Crafting Self-Guided Surprise Road Trips (w/ Jessica Off)
36:39
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Mitch Bach speaks with Jessica Off, founder of Guess Where Trips, an e-commerce company creating physical and digital surprise road trips for customers across Canada and the U.S. Jessica is a serial travel entrepreneur, including work at G Adventures. In this episode, she talks about what led her to start an e-commerce product-based travel business…
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In The Now | On The Ground in Ecuador, A Must Listen
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The date of recording for today’s show is February 7th, 2024. That’s important because our show today is very topical and time sensitive. As some of you may know there has been a crackdown on organized crime and drug trade in Ecuador over the past month. Sadly for me and my friends and partners in the region, this crack down and the resulting sensa…
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Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania | Expert Panel: A Baltic Story of Freedom and Faith
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Today we’re headed to the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. While all three countries are different in culture and in language, what they share is having borne witness to the same history and the courage to protect their individual identities through centuries of tumult. This is a fascinating region of the world to visit, not only…
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Tourpreneur Call-in Show: Business Growth and Marketing
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In this follow-up episode, our hosts Chris Torres, Mitch Bach, and Peter Syme delve into the increasing use of AI in the travel industry, emphasizing its impact on creating new products and services. They discuss the strategic challenges of AI adoption and the potential for customized experiences at scale, while also stressing the importance of mai…
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Paris | Expert Panel: Hidden Gems, Storytelling, and Nostalgia
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Today we’re indulging in fine cuisine, going behind the scenes of couture fashion houses like Chanel and Dior, and delving into some of the world’s most important traditions in art. Paris, the City of Light, has always been at the forefront of luxury, indulgence, and craftsmanship. Joining me to chat on all things art, fashion, and history are my f…
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Enhancing Tourism with AI: Collaboration, Differentiation and Revenue Optimisation
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48:53
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In this episode of Tourpreneur, host Peter Syme welcomes special guest Marius Nigard to explore the exciting intersection of AI technology and the travel industry. Marius shares insights into the potential of AI-driven tools to personalise and enhance the travel experience, from providing self-guided audio tours to advising on optimal visiting time…
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Costa Rica | A Father & Daughter Perspective on Family Travel
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We have a fun episode for you today, centered around Costa Rica and family travel. As one of our most popular destinations, we’re always working to find new and interesting ways to explore this beautiful country and to help families make lasting memories. Joining me on this episode is my friend and partner in the region, Javier Echecopar. Javier al…
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Chris Torres kicks things off by discussing the three paths for business owners: low road (staying small), middle road (scaling up to a moderate size), and high road (scaling up to a big company), emphasizing the importance of aligning these choices with personal and business goals. Mitch Bach joins in to emphasize the significance of personal fulf…
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The American West | Kevin Jackson: National Parks and Epic Adventures
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Today we’re headed deep into the American West to discover magical deserts, epic adventures, impossibly big skies, and wildlife you just can’t see anywhere else in the world. This is a land of contrasts - from the hottest desert, to the largest trees; from the longest canyon, to the world’s most epic super volcano. And aside from the natural wonder…
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Luxury Survival Training | Expert Panel: Foraging, Fire, and Freedom (+ Insider Details from Alone UK)
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Today we’re peeking into the world of survival travel - taking trips to learn important survival skills and putting them into practice in a real life setting. If you’ve ever been curious about truly getting back to nature, this episode is for you! My guests today are my friends Tom Williams and Roman Chiporukha. Tom started an experience company ca…
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Seychelles | Tomas Cochrane: Island Hopping in the Garden of Eden
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Today we’re whisking you off to a set of secluded islands in the Indian Ocean. This special place is so beautiful and remote, that it is often touted as the original Garden of Eden. Joining me to chat all things Seychelles, is our partner in the region Tomas Cochrane. Whether you’re looking for a far flung, relaxing, tropical paradise, or a more ac…
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Besties Episode | Expert Panel: Luxury Travel Wrapped 2023
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This week we’re up to something a little different. I invited three of my travel industry friends to join me in conversation about some of our favorite hotels of the year, some of our biggest travel pet peeves, and some of the lessons we hope our followers, clients, and guests will take home with them from their next trips. Joining me today are Wen…
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Holiday Special | Expert Panel: Festivals, Christmas Markets, and Pillow Fights
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Though we may celebrate some of the same holidays across regions and countries, we all do them so differently. Understanding those differences can help us to understand each other, it adds beauty to the season, and might even give you a new destination for your wishlist. Chatting holiday traditions with me today are Cristina Consuegra, our partner …
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Virtuoso | CEO, Matthew Upchurch: The Future of Travel
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Joining us today for the second time is Matthew Upchurch, one of the most influential people in the world of luxury travel, and the CEO of Virtuoso. Last time Matthew joined us, we had an insightful conversation about the history of travel, so this time around I thought we’d focus on the future of travel. We delve into topics as diverse as AI, the …
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andBeyond | CEO, Joss Kent: Building Human & Wildlife Connections in Africa and Beyond
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55:51
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I’m thrilled to take you on a journey today over to Africa, and to bits of Asia and South America too. But the core of our conversation will be about the fine balancing act between land, people, and wildlife. Joss Kent, the CEO of andBeyond and former CEO of Abercrombie & Kent joins me today to explain how the three of these elements can and do wor…
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The Power of Flexibility & Values: Jen Fein on Sustainable Growth in the Travel-Tech Industry
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In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us - Jen Fein, the CEO and head of product at YouLi (https://go.youli.io/). We'll be discussing the fascinating journey of YouLi, a platform that generates personalised travel itineraries, and how it has been transforming the travel industry. Get ready for an insightful conversation as we explore …
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Ski Travel | Rick Reichsfeld & Olympian Richelle Blanken: Finding Perfect Powder, The Best Après-Ski in Europe, and How Skiing Brings us Together
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Today… we’re going skiing! And not just in Colorado, or Utah, or California - but all over the world from Chile, to Japan, to Italy and France. Our guests today are the brother and sister team, Rick Reichsfeld and Richelle Blanken. The duo grew up skiing competitively, both raced in college, and then Richelle even raced professionally. When Richell…
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The Art of Crafting 'Awe': The Psychology of making lasting tour memories (w/ Psychologist Dacher Keltner)
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Psychologist Dacher Keltner is a world-renowned expert in all things emotion. He teaches at UC Berkeley, and is latest book is Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life. Keltner speaks with Mitch about the role of emotions like awe in travel experiences, and what we as tour operators should be thinking about in orde…
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Bhutan | Six Senses Lodges: Gross National Happiness, A Place Where Time Slows Down, and The Value of Kindness
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Today we visit the magical Kingdom of Bhutan. My guest Sally Baughen is the General Manager of five newly built Six Senses lodges situated across five diverse valleys - rich with experiences, natural beauty, and surprising new ways to look at life. Though you can visit each lodge independently, the wellness gurus at Six Senses have designed it as a…
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In honor of Halloween, today’s show is all about two of my favorite cities, witches, hauntings, druids and more. My guests today are Lauren Tarantino and Russell Nash. Lauren’s family can directly trace its roots in the city of New Orleans back for 300 years, she’s also currently earning a masters in New Orleans history and is a ghost tour guide in…
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Greenland | Expedition Leader, Colby Brokvist
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Today we’re headed a bit off the beaten path, to the world’s largest island of Greenland. Though often called the land of ice and snow, in the summer you can find wildflowers, berries, beautiful fjords, and a robust local culture. Whether you’re looking to escape the frenzy of cities and popular tourist destinations, have an interest in marine life…
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Antarctica | White Desert: Meet The Guides
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Today we’re heading down to the white continent of Antarctica. This vast land holds an extremely special place in my heart and this was my second trip to the continent. This time I visited by flying over from South Africa and staying at one of White Desert’s beautiful camps called Echo Camp. I took along my recording equipment and am so glad I did …
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