Destination On The Left is a travel and tourism industry podcast hosted by Travel Alliance Partnership. Each episode explores successful collaborations, creative marketing ideas and best practices for both consumer and travel trade marketing programs. Interviews are a mix of Destination Marketers, Industry Leaders, Consultants and businesses in the industry.
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414. Designing Luxury Immersive Experiences, with Graeme Labe
38:18
38:18
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38:18On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers. He discusses how his immersive design firm got started and has gained traction since 2020 as people are seeking more meaningful experiences. Graeme redefines the meaning of luxury travel, explaining that genuine experi…
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413. Thinking Differently, with Andy Clinton
47:31
47:31
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47:31On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Andy Clinton, CEO of Visit York County. He discusses why youth sports tourism is so important to his community and how reaching out to other successful destinations for inspiration has helped them build their visitor numbers. Andy also shares the details of the innovative strategies that Visit…
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412. Expanding Accessible Travel, with Arturo Gaona
48:14
48:14
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48:14On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Arturo Gaona, Chief Partnership Officer at Wheel the World. Arturo shares how Wheel the World started with one vision in mind and evolved into a solution for helping visitors of all abilities know what to expect when planning their travels. He shares how Wheel the World collaborates with DMOs …
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411. Social Media Tips for Travel Advisors, with Nikita France
43:10
43:10
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43:10On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Nikita France, Founder of Travel Agent Collective, who shares her story of how she helps travel agents build their businesses by building their personal brand. She offers great actionable advice on how to stand out on social media so you can build authority, confidence, and trust with potentia…
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410. Cannabis Travel Trends, with Brian Applegarth
41:12
41:12
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41:12On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Brian Applegarth, founding chair of the Cannabis Travel Association International and owner of Applegarth Strategies, about the burgeoning interest in cannabis tourism. He describes the four archetypes of this growing target market, and we discuss how destinations should think about their cann…
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409. Insights from the National Tour Association Travel Exchange Part Two, with Nicole Mahoney
55:35
55:35
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55:35This week, we’re sharing more insights from travel experts at the NTA Travel Exchange event in Huntsville, Alabama. You’ll hear how improving efficiency in tour operations can enhance customer satisfaction through digital tools and technology integration. We also discuss the impact of AI on tourism and the importance of strategic partnerships in ou…
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408. Insights from the National Tour Association Travel Exchange Part One, with Nicole Mahoney
41:11
41:11
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41:11Welcome to the first of a two-part series from NTA, where we dive into tour and travel trends, partnerships, and challenges shaping the industry. In our conversations, we explore the rise of transformative travel, the international tourism rebound, and innovations in payment systems—all key trends driving the travel industry forward into 2025. In t…
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407. Creating Enriching Multi-Destination Travel Experiences, OMCA Marketplace Part Two with Nicole Mahoney
1:19:04
1:19:04
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1:19:04On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m talking with eight industry professionals at OMCA Marketplace, held in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. These conversations emphasize the evolving nature of the travel industry driven by changes in traveler expectations, strategic international cooperation, and a strong focus on quality and convenience. In t…
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406. Creating Enriching Multi-Destination Travel Experiences, OMCA Marketplace Part One with Nicole Mahoney
1:02:34
1:02:34
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1:02:34On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m sharing the first of a two-part series from the OMCA Marketplace that was held in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. I know you’ll find the wisdom these eight influential industry professionals offer invaluable. We dig into the recent tour and travel trends, including cross-border travel and the importance of …
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405. PACE Forum 2025 Preview, with Gregory LaDuca, Maureen Martin, & Bryan Kubel
45:06
45:06
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45:06On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with three tourism industry leaders about the power of partnership and community engagement. Maureen Martin, Vice President of Partnerships and Community from Destination Madison, Bryan Kuebel, Senior Partnership Manager from Visit Milwaukee, and Greg LaDuca, Senior Vice President of Industry Relat…
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404. Building Emotional Connections Through Storytelling, with Catherine Alonzo
44:34
44:34
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44:34On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Catherine Alonzo, CEO at Javelina and host of the How to Change the World Podcast. She shares why story and travel are two sides of the same coin and breaks down how we should approach stories when trying to make a change or social impact. We also discuss the stories we tell ourselves, the imp…
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403. The Power of Positive Intelligence, with Jill Peterson
41:59
41:59
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41:59In this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jill Peterson, Founder and Chief Growth Strategist at Clover Insights LLC. We discuss how to improve your mental fitness and build positive intelligence, and she explains the differences between your “survival brain” and your “sage brain.” Jill shares why improving your mental fitness leads to…
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402. Exploring 2024 Holiday Travel Trends and Consumer Insights, with Jonathan Kletzel
25:15
25:15
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25:15On this episode of Destination on the Left, Jonathan Kletzel, the Travel, Transportation, and Logistics Sector Leader at PwC, shares insights from the recently released PwC Holiday Outlook. This report examines holiday spending across various consumer segments and industries. We focus on travel trends for the 2024 holiday season and discuss the dif…
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401. Building Success through Bravery and Flexibility, with Rosa Harris
44:26
44:26
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44:26On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands, about the importance of being open, flexible, and courageous as a travel professional. We talk about knowing who you are as a destination, being true to your strengths, and why honoring history, culture, and people is a must for tourism …
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400. Preserving Legacy and Building Connections, with Nicole Mahoney and Colleen Onuffer
32:33
32:33
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32:33On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m thrilled to dive into an inspiring conversation that perfectly embodies our brand promise—”impact through connection, community, and collaboration.” We’re exploring the transformative power of strategic planning and emotional connections in the travel and tourism industry with Colleen Onuffer, the Dir…
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399. Event Hosting and Tourism Success in Small Destinations, with Todd Read
45:35
45:35
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45:35On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Todd Read, Senior Tourism Manager at SoIN Tourism, who shares more about the importance of building relationships for professional growth. Todd discusses the challenges SoIN has faced and how they have overcome them by creating strong partnerships. We also talk about hosting a travel conferenc…
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398. Building Strong Industry Partnerships in the Travel and Tourism Industry, with Kristi Gole
34:00
34:00
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34:00On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kristi Gole, EVP of Strategy at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), about the importance of collaboration and how the alliance helps these hotels compete against the world’s largest brands. Kristi shares examples of brand partnerships that GHA’s loyalty program has allowed them to start with compleme…
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397. The Evolution of the Travel Advisor, with James R. Ferrara
41:59
41:59
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41:59On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with James R. Ferrara, Co-Founder & President of InteleTravel, about how the business navigated the pandemic, adapted to the shifting preferences of younger travelers, and strategically expanded their services. James also shares more about the company’s commitment to promoting mindful and sustainab…
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396. How AI Can Improve Traveler Experience, with Anna Jaffe
43:59
43:59
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43:59Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to enhance and pe…
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Episode 395:Creating Immersive Travel Experiences by Rail, with Liz Owens
35:10
35:10
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35:10On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted rail travel to …
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Episode 394: The Essential Role of Authentic Storytelling in Sustainable Tourism, with Rob Holmes
44:35
44:35
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44:35On this episode of Destination on the Left, Rob Holmes, Founder of GLP Films shares his experience and insights on sustainable tourism. We discuss how you can impact sustainability through storytelling, and Rob shares several components of storytelling and why it must focus on people at the ground level and be story-driven, not sales-driven. What Y…
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Episode 393: Elevating Travel Marketing through Out-of-Home Advertising, with Frederick Strebeck
41:40
41:40
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41:40On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Freddie Strebeck, VP of Client Partnerships at EMC Outdoor, all about how travel and tourism brands can use traditional, lifestyle, and experiential out-of-home advertising to improve their marketing campaign outcomes. We also discuss Freddie’s successes, including his work with Visit Seattle …
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Episode 392:How to Offer an Exceptional Experience on Every Trip, with Rob DelliBovi
41:15
41:15
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41:15On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rob DelliBovi, Owner and CEO at RDB Hospitality Group. He shares his insights on why micromanagement is underrated when it comes to delivering exceptional service because consistency is key. We discuss the strategies Rob’s company uses to provide added value for travelers and suppliers, and Ro…
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Episode 391: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change, with Sandy Borowsky
38:51
38:51
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38:51On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Sandy Borowsky, Owner of Starr Bus Charter and Tours, about her journey in the tour industry as a third-generation owner and woman-owned business. She shares why technology is so important to running an efficient and profitable business and how working with competitors has led to business grow…
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Episode 390: Making Travel an Inclusive Experience for Everyone, with Lakshmee Lachhman-Persad
37:45
37:45
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37:45On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Lakshmee Lachhman-Persad, accessible destination marketer and board member of NYC Tourism + Conventions, who explains why it’s so important to create inclusive experiences for everyone with disabilities, whether visible or invisible. Lakshmee shares specific actions that any destination or att…
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Episode 389: 5 Powerful Life Lessons for Graduates, with Nicole Mahoney
20:30
20:30
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20:30This summer, I’m sharing five powerful life lessons I’ve learned since graduating high school. So join me as I discuss the importance of adopting appreciation over expectation, choosing faith over fear, managing self-talk, directing focus to cultivate positive energy, practicing radical self-belief, and find out how they can shape and enhance your …
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Episode 388: Strategies for Effective Partnerships in Sales, with Nicole Boyer
35:59
35:59
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35:59On this episode of Destination on the Left, Nicole Boyer joins me to discuss why learning how to effectively build relationships leads to business growth. We talk about the importance of being authentic and paying attention to the small details to stay top of mind with potential partners. She also shares more about her Ginger Sales Ninja brand and …
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Episode 387: Building a Strong Brand From the Inside Out, with Nikki Hellyer
36:18
36:18
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36:18On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Nikki Hellyer, Vice President of Marketing at ToursByLocals, about the importance of building a brand from the inside out and why having a purpose and principles that everyone in the company lives by gives your team the freedom to deliver excellent service every time. You’ll also hear more fro…
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Episode 386: Navigating the Chinese Travel Market, with Subramania Bhatt
35:52
35:52
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35:52On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Subramania Bhatt, Founder and CEO of China Trading Desk. We discuss Chinese travel trends and how his company keeps a finger on the pulse of Chinese travelers’ international aspirations. We discuss why the old days of large-group travel are behind them and why they seek authentic experiences i…
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Episode 385: Building Genuine Connections through Meaningful Conversations, with Debra Fine
47:03
47:03
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47:03On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Debra about making successful small talk and creating authentic connections. She shares examples of what to say to start a conversation, what the serious conversation killers are, and tactical ways to exit a conversation gracefully. If you’ve ever wondered how to set yourself up for success wh…
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Episode 384: Why Knowing Your Audience Makes Your Marketing Simpler, with Mary Charleson
45:35
45:35
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45:35On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Mary Charleson, President of Five Minute Marketing and founder of Carry On Queen, about her formula for creating marketing plans that align with your target audience. We discuss how giving without expectation applies to Marketing and how Mary views volunteering with purpose as part of this phi…
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Episode 383: Empowering Destination Marketing with Civitas Pro's Data Insights, with Tiffany Gallagher
39:13
39:13
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39:13On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Tiffany Gallagher, Vice President of Operations at Civitas about what Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs) mean for the communities where they are established. She shares more about creative funding opportunities designed as a benefit-based vehicle for the travel industry forward. Tiffany also…
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Episode 382: Building a Purpose-Driven Company Culture, with Nicole Mahoney and TJ Bennett
1:14:50
1:14:50
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1:14:50On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m sharing my recent appearance on the Desuckify Work podcast with TJ Bennett. We discuss why people crave purpose-driven work, why it’s important to have a vision, and, more importantly, how to communicate that vision throughout the company. We also discuss building a strong team and how structure and o…
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Episode 381: Business Growth and Thought Leadership, with Nicole Mahoney and Sharon Toerek
56:20
56:20
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56:20On this episode of Destination on the Left, you’ll hear my conversation with Sharon Toerek about the importance of finding your niche and how growth happens once you commit to it. We also discuss how becoming a thought leader in your niche leads to new relationships and opportunities. While this interview centers around building a marketing agency,…
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Episode 380: The Intersection of Storytelling, Collaboration, and Attractions, with Geoff Thatcher
45:34
45:34
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45:34On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Geoff Thatcher about telling great stories and why they impact how people experience your brand. Geoff shares examples of his revolutionary experiential framework in action and gives his insights into staying focused, finding the right partners, forgiving allowable weaknesses, and remembering …
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Episode 379: Connecting Communities through Collaboration, with Sonya Nash
37:16
37:16
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37:16On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Sonya Nash, Executive Director of Visit Shipshewana. She shares how she honors the local community through the work her DMO does and describes her role as creating an experience that visitors love and positively impacts the local community. Sonya also talks about a countywide collaboration she…
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Episode 378: Let Your Weird Flag Fly, with Emily P. Dailey
44:25
44:25
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44:25On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Emily about how her creative skills and early experience in theater led her to the hospitality industry. She walks us through a process for evaluating your brand and thinking about it from a people-first perspective and shares her approach to addressing challenges that cover planning for short…
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Episode 377: Fostering Community and Mindful Travel Experiences for Women, with Megan Grant
32:25
32:25
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32:25On this episode of Destination on the Left, Megan Grant and I talk about how her tours are designed to create a positive social impact. She highlights the trends that are helping her business grow and thrive, including mindful purchasing and lone female travelers. We also discussed the importance of community and how Megan’s tours build community. …
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Episode 376: Evolving Travel Trends and Adventure Tourism, with Sean Hebert
44:06
44:06
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44:06On this episode of Destination on the Left, Sean Hebert goes deep into the backstory of TourRadar, an organized adventure platform. He shares his perspective on the importance of trust, what adventure travelers are looking for in terms of new experiences, and how TourRadar facilitates amazing collaboration between travelers, tour operators, and tra…
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Episode 375: Cultivating a Transformative Mindset, with Meredith Calloway
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44:45On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Meredith Calloway, Chief Visionary Officer and Co-Founder of Gifted Travel Network (GTN). She shares more about the inspiration behind her community of luxury travel advisors and her nuggets of wisdom about how to develop and cultivate a brand message that will help you stand out from the crow…
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Episode 374: Our Exciting Travel Alliance Partnership Rebrand, with Nicole Mahoney
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35:10
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35:10This week, I’m reflecting on our new brand and why we are so excited about the next chapter. I want to share the branding journey with you to highlight the lessons we learned along the way. I hope that our story will inspire you and give an introduction to our new company and the philosophy behind it. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Why we dec…
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Episode 373: Understanding American Traveler Sentiment, with Amir Eylon
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55:10
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55:10A thirty-two-year veteran of the Travel & Tourism industry, Amir Eylon leads the entire team at Longwoods International, responsible for the development and execution of all facets of the organization, from program development to customer acquisition and retention. He joined Longwoods in 2015 from his previous role as Vice President, Partner Engage…
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Episode 372: The Impact of Coopetition in Creating Meaningful Travel Experiences, with Greg Takehara
46:16
46:16
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46:16Greg Takehara has been the CEO of Tourism Cares since 2019. He previously served on its Board, acting as its Chairman before becoming CEO. Prior to Tourism Cares, Greg was the President of Trip Mate, Inc., a travel insurance administrator. He began his thirty-five year career in the travel and tourism industry at The Mark Travel Corporation, where …
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Episode 371: Leaning into the Uniqueness of a Destination, with JoAnna Haugen
46:07
46:07
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46:07JoAnna Haugen is an award-winning writer, consultant, speaker, and solutions advocate who has worked in communications-related positions in the travel and tourism industry her entire career. She is also the Founder of Rooted, a solutions platform at the intersection of sustainable tourism, social impact, and storytelling. Through Rooted, JoAnna hel…
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Episode 370: Transforming Marketing with AI, with Paul Roetzer
38:26
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38:26Paul Roetzer is the Founder and CEO of Marketing AI Institute; co-author of Marketing Artificial Intelligence: AI, Marketing and the Future of Business; host of The Marketing AI Show podcast; and creator of the Marketing AI Conference (MAICON). As a speaker, Roetzer is focused on making AI approachable and actionable for marketers and business lead…
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Episode 369: The Power of Owned Media, with Adam Stoker
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50:55Adam Stoker is the Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Relic, a full-service destination marketing agency. For over 15 years, Adam has excelled in the leisure travel, stakeholder engagement, and destination branding spheres. Immersed in the world of tourism, Adam has spent time as a member of the Utah Tourism Industry Association Board. He is a frequ…
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Episode 368: Uniting Communities through Memorable New York City Tours and Events, with Rowena Sahulee
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50:10Rowena Sahulee is a marketing executive with over 20 years in the dual realms of tourism and economic development. She has worked in marketing functions at organizations such as Circle Line Statue of Liberty Ferry and Harbor Cruises, the first concessionaire to the Statue of Liberty. The Greater Houston Partnership, the main business organization i…
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Episode 367: Uniting for Success in the Travel Industry, with Nicole Mahoney
1:05:59
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1:05:59This week we’re coming to you directly from the ABA Marketplace in Nashville, where I’m talking to eight amazing travel industry experts about why there’s a sense of energy and forward focus in 2024. They share more about the experiences visitors to their destinations are requesting and dig into the importance of authenticity and making genuine con…
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Episode 366: Nurturing Relationships in the Tourism and Travel Sector with Nicole Mahoney
1:12:20
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1:12:20This week, the podcast is coming to you from the ABA Marketplace in Nashville, where nearly 3,000 tour and travel professionals convened to learn and network with their peers. From indigenous experiences in Alberta to the revitalization of destinations like Philadelphia and Branson, this episode is packed with valuable perspectives on collaboration…
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Episode 365: Strategies for Finding and Nurturing Your Community, with Nicole Mahoney
12:49
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12:49Nicole Mahoney is an entrepreneur, speaker, and podcast host with a passion for business. She’s the Founder of Break the Ice Media, a PR and digital marketing agency specializing in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry, and also serves as the CEO of Travel Alliance Partners. In her weekly podcast, Destination on the Left, launched in 2016,…
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