Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

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Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Stephen Ekstrom

200 episodes

6 days ago

In this heartfelt and insightful interview, David Gilbert, President and CEO of Destination Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, shares the unique journey that led him to lead two separate but complementary civic organizations. A Cleveland native, David talks about how his deep roots in the community have shaped his approach to tourism and destination leadership. He explores Cleveland's soul—its gritty history, vibrant community, and the pride that defines its people—and how...

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Places & Travel

Society & Culture,

All content for Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast is the property of Stephen Ekstrom and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

In this heartfelt and insightful interview, David Gilbert, President and CEO of Destination Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, shares the unique journey that led him to lead two separate but complementary civic organizations. A Cleveland native, David talks about how his deep roots in the community have shaped his approach to tourism and destination leadership. He explores Cleveland's soul—its gritty history, vibrant community, and the pride that defines its people—and how...

Show more...

Places & Travel

Society & Culture,

Episodes (20/200)

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Exploring the Future of Tourism with Philip Jones

In this episode of Learning Tourism's Business Class podcast, host Stephen shares his experiences waking up by Lake Erie and traveling across the U.S. before introducing the distinguished guest, Philip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer for the Royal Commission for AlUla. With a rich career spanning leadership roles at Visit Dallas and Louisiana's Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, Jones dives into his journey of transforming AlUla into a globally recognized tourism destination. They d...

2 days ago

20 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Hungry, Humble, and Leading the Way: Brad Dean on Tourism, Teamwork & Telling St. Louis' Story

In this episode of Business Class, I sit down with Brad Dean, President & CEO of Explore St. Louis, to explore what it really means to lead with heart in the tourism industry. From his unexpected leap from finance to hospitality, to his people-first leadership philosophy, Brad shares what makes a great team, why humility matters, and how St. Louis is rewriting its narrative with sports, arts, and authenticity. We also dive into the evolving role of AI, the future of destination marketing,...

2 weeks ago

25 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

The Business of Making Memories: NYC Tourism CEO Julie Coker on Leadership, Travel, and Connection

In the fast-paced world of tourism, where destinations evolve and trends shift constantly, the heart of the industry remains unchanged: the ability to evoke emotion, passion, and excitement. "We are in the memory-making business," says Julie Coker, President and CEO of NYC Tourism and Conventions, in a recent interview with Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adul...

1 month ago

23 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

From Kansas to Oregon: A Journey Through Hospitality and Tourism with Jeff Knapp

In a recent conversation on the Learn Tourism podcast, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Learn Tourism, spoke with Jeff Knapp, President and CEO of Visit Bend, about his journey to Bend, Oregon, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholde...

4 months ago

28 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Discover the Authentic Charm of York County, South Carolina

Visit York County, led by CEO Andy Clinton, is a thriving tourism organization situated just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. The area, known for its rapid growth, offers a mix of suburban charm and rural appeal, making it a popular destination for families seeking authentic experiences. Clinton highlights the county's unique blend of local attractions, such as mom-and-pop restaurants and breweries, alongside major developments. Clinton emphasizes the importance of supporting local business...

4 months ago

18 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Balancing Tourism and Community: How Aspen Pioneers Sustainable Destination Marketing

Eliza Voss, Vice President of Destination Marketing at the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA), provides fascinating insights into the delicate balance of managing Aspen's tourism while maintaining the quality of life for its residents. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win ov...

5 months ago

14 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Exploring Tourism and Community: Interview with John Urdi

Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom sits down with John Urdi, the President and CEO of Mammoth Lakes, California, to delve into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing tourism in a remote yet breathtaking destination. With Urdi’s extensive experience in the tourism sector, listeners can expect an insightful discussion that goes beyond the usual marketing strategies and highlights the importance of community engagement. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, ...

6 months ago

23 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Embrace Connections: Tico Soto’s Inspiring Journey in Tourism and Personal Growth

In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism Stephen Ekstrom welcomes Tico Soto, the founder of Tourism Tactics by Tico, to discuss his nearly three-decade journey in the tourism industry. With a warm and engaging style, Tico shares his insights on building relationships, navigating challenges, and the importance of passion in tourism. Tico's career began in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in 1996, where he stumbled upon the tourism sector almost by accident while working in banking. A serendipi...

6 months ago

25 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Unpacking User-Generated Content with Professor Bryan Lavin

Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Bryan Lavin, a distinguished professor at Johnson and Wales University's College of Hospitality Management. Bryan shares insights from his dissertation on user-generated content (UGC) marketing campaigns, revealing key motivations and barriers that drive or hinder participation. Discover Bryan's surprising findings about social media usage across different age groups, and delve into the importance of empowerment in creating engaging an...

7 months ago

21 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Destination Ann Arbor: Growing Together and Embracing Sustainability in Tourism – Insights from CEO Sarah Miller and Research Director Tim Crouson

In a recent podcast episode of Business Class, Sarah Miller, President and CEO of Destination Ann Arbor, and Tim Crouson, Director of Research at the same organization, shared insights on their roles, experiences, and the growth of tourism in Washtenaw County with Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom. Both have deep roots in the organization, with Sarah celebrating over two decades of work, guiding its growth from a modest $1 million budget and seven staff members to a $7.5 million operation w...

7 months ago

22 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Navigating Destination Management with Purpose: An Interview with Tina Valdecañas

Navigating Destination Management with Purpose: An Interview with Tina Valdecañas Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom interviews Tina Valdecanas, Principal at Clarity of Place, on the latest episode of Business Class. In the recent podcast episode, Tina shared insights on her journey in the tourism industry, her firm’s unique approach to strategic consulting, and the lessons she’s learned from her extensive experience. Her story reflects a deep commitment to helping destinations thrive by align...

7 months ago

21 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Tourism: A Complex Force for Good – Insights from Santiago Rodriguez

Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom interviews Santiago Rodriguez, a Ph.D. in tourism and author of The Tourism Practitioner newsletter on the latest episode of Business Class. Rodriguez offers a deep dive into the intricate world of tourism. Originally from Ecuador, Rodriguez has dedicated his career to understanding and improving the tourism sector, focusing on how local stakeholders can attract international markets that align with their values and development goals. In a recent podcast, he...

7 months ago

29 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Creative Collisions & Community Impact: with Dan Janes of Madden Media

In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Dan Janes, CEO of Madden Media, to explore the dynamic world of tourism marketing and community building. Dan shares his unconventional journey from angel investing and academia to leading a thriving media agency. Discover how Dan’s military background influences his leadership style, the evolution of Madden Media, and his insights on the future of AI in tourism. Tune in to hear about the intersections of creativity, technology...

8 months ago

23 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Creativity and Discipline: Gathan Borden’s Story

Gathan Borden, Client and Insights Relations Manager at Tourism Economics, recounts the challenges he faced growing up as the only black student in advanced classes. He shares how this experience instilled a constant need to prove his worth, a trait that has carried through his career. Gathan draws creativity from his late mother and discipline from his father, both of which are key elements in his current role. He discusses his career journey from Louisville tourism to various leadership rol...

8 months ago

27 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Sarasota Secrets: Hidden Gems and Future Visions with Erin Duggan

Join us for an engaging conversation with Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, as she shares her journey from local resident to leading tourism professional. In this episode, Erin reveals the unique charm of Sarasota County, dispels old misconceptions about the area's seasonality, and highlights how community engagement drives tourism success. Discover her personal connection to the area, her evolution from a marketing role to executive leadership, and the transformative m...

8 months ago

29 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Rural Roots & Tourism Truths: Empowering Communities with Sarah Benoit

Join us in this insightful episode of Business Class as we sit down with Sarah Benoit, co-founder and lead instructor of JB Media Institute in Asheville, North Carolina. With over 22 years of experience in tourism marketing, Sarah shares her journey from big-city travels to falling in love with the hidden gems of rural America. Discover how her passion for connecting with communities and untold stories has shaped her work in tourism, and learn the secrets to staying authentic while driving vi...

8 months ago

27 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

From Marketing Maven to CEO: Katherine O'Donnell's Journey in Richmond's Tourism Scene

In this episode, we sit down with Katherine O'Donnell, the newly appointed President and CEO of Richmond Region Tourism. Katherine shares her remarkable 22-year journey with the organization, revealing how she transitioned from publications coordinator to the helm of a major destination marketing organization. Discover how her unexpected career path led to a deep passion for tourism, community engagement, and strategic leadership. Katherine reflects on the challenges and triumphs of integrati...

8 months ago

26 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Hand Sanitizer to High-Flying Strategies: Cambria Jones on Navigating Careers and Destinations with Searchwide Global

Rising Through the Ranks: A Journey in Marketing and Experience with Amber Jones In this episode of the Business Class podcast, Steve interviews Amber Jones from Searchwide Global. Amber discusses her career progression from Marketing Manager to Chief Marketing and Experience Officer. She compares working in an executive search firm to her previous roles in Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), shares insights on industry barriers, and emphasizes the importance of grace and continuous ...

9 months ago

17 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

From Teen Struggles to Tourism Leader: Dawnielle Tehama on Resilience, Regeneration, and Connection

In this powerful episode of Business Class, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Dawnielle Tehama, a Senior Associate Principal at Coraggio Group and an enrolled Klamath Tribal member, who shares her remarkable journey from a homeless teen to a leader in the tourism industry. Dawnielle opens up about the challenges she faced growing up, how her deep connection to her Indigenous roots shaped her career, and why she transitioned from law to travel. She delves into the importance of empathy, cult...

9 months ago

34 minutes

Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Newsroom to Tourism Boom: Lisa Bethea’s Blueprint for Destination Success

In this episode, we chat with Lisa Bethea, Director of Destination Services for Visit Frisco. From a broadcast news career to a leading role in tourism, Lisa’s journey is a story of resilience and passion. Join us as we explore her unique path and the lessons she's learned. From Broadcast News to Hospitality Lisa’s shift from broadcast news to hospitality was unexpected. A chance visit to Embassy Suites led to a front desk job, and her rapid rise through the ranks set the stage for her curren...

9 months ago

18 minutes