TIQUE Talks: Recent Episodes

Robin Bradley and Jennifer Jacob

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Receive 15% off your first purchase in the shop with code TIQUE

A great client experience shouldn’t require a travel advisor to be available 24/7. In the final episode of their summer series on boundaries, Robin and Jennifer break down the systems that allow travel advisors to deliver exceptional service without making themselves the center of every client interaction. From guides and forms to email templates, terms and conditions, and CRM automation, they share the systems they’ve implemented in their own businesses to create a more consistent client experience, reduce reactive communication, and protect their time. Because clients aren’t hiring a travel advisor for unlimited access. They’re hiring them for their expertise and a seamless travel experience.

Today we will cover:

(03:30) Why a structured client experience creates stronger boundaries
(09:25) How forms can reduce back-and-forth communication and better organize important client information
(18:20) Why travel advisors should have templated client emails
(23:50) The role terms and conditions play in protecting a travel business
(30:35) Why a CRM should serve as the central hub for client communication and documentation
(35:00) Why clear processes can help filter out clients who aren’t aligned with the way a business operates

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.
How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.
What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.
Client Onboarding Guide – Create a seamless onboarding experience and answer common questions before they arise.
Client Experience Templates – Ready-to-use email templates, forms, workflows, and client touchpoints designed to create a consistent, scalable client experience.
5 Free Email Templates – 5 plug-and-play email templates that are totally customizable to your travel business
Travel Advisor Contract from The Legal Paige

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

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Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

Forget the "just start." While waiting for perfection will keep you stuck, jumping in before your business is ready can cost you far more than lost time. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin challenge the idea that taking action without preparation is always the right move. They discuss what being "ready" really means, from building repeatable systems and pricing with intention to creating a client experience that earns trust from day one. If you're building a business designed to last, this episode will help you start smarter…not just sooner.

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Receive 15% off your first purchase in the shop with code TIQUE

"Charge fees, please." That's the entire episode in one sentence, according to Robin. But if it were that simple, every travel advisor would already be doing it. In this third episode of the Summer Boundaries Series, Jennifer and Robin dig into the money conversation many advisors avoid: minimum budgets, planning fees, and the contracts that back them up. They break down why a per-day minimum protects your profit margin better than a flat trip minimum, why "deal" and "discount" quietly train clients to negotiate you down, and how your marketing sets budget expectations before a client ever fills out an inquiry form. Plus, the math behind a sustainable minimum and how to word an inquiry form so low-budget leads self-select out. If you've ever resented a client for how little they spent, or you're not sure how to introduce fees without losing longtime clients, this episode gives you the framework and the exact language to fix it!

Today we will cover:

(03:25) Why set a minimum budget
(11:35) How to find your starting minimum budget
(16:05) Structuring inquiry form questions
(22:35) Planning fees vs. minimum budgets: which matters more
(29:30) Service suites and itemized packages to prevent scope creep
(36:30) Why contracts matter; making promises mutual and enforceable

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

Think having processes makes your business feel too rigid? Think again! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why clear workflows, written policies, and firm boundaries create a better client experience while protecting your time, profitability, and sanity. They share real-world examples of planning fees, cancellation policies, inquiry forms, and business boundaries to show how having a standard makes your exceptions meaningful instead of expected. Plus, they discuss why documenting exceptions, communicating them clearly, and resisting the urge to make decisions based on "vibes" are essential for building a business that scales without sacrificing the personal touch.

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisors

If you're constantly answering calls, responding to texts, and making yourself available 24/7, you're probably losing more time and money than you realize. Jennifer and Robin continue their Summer Boundaries Series with a deep dive into phone habits. Building on the email boundaries conversation from the last episode, they make the case that being accessible and being constantly available are two different things, and that real growth requires protecting your time from an always-on phone. They walk through scheduling systems, voicemail scripts, call pricing, and where agentic AI is already starting to change how advisors capture and manage phone inquiries.

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Meetings that should have been emails
(09:00) The voicemail script every travel advisor needs
(15:10) How AI can qualify leads and schedule inquiries
(22:55) Protecting your deep work time
(29:00) When and how to charge for additional calls
(33:30) Setting clear expectations with every client

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.
How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.
What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.
Sales Call Roadmap Freebie – A 15-page roadmap to rock your next intake call with niche specific questions & more.
Episode 209. Hot Take: Stop Avoiding Loom

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

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Would you rather spend $35 a month on a CRM, or $3,000 on a FAM for the one Turkey lead you'll get in four years? If you flinched at the CRM number, we need to talk. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin call out one of the travel industry's favorite delusions: advisors happily investing in FAMs but hesitating to invest in the systems, education, and expertise that grow their businesses. They share the biggest investments they've made (including a whopping $20,000 website and $10,000+ in AI education), why those purchases have paid for themselves many times over, and the simple question you should ask before spending another dollar on your business.

Ready to actually invest in your business instead of your carry-on? Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Three days, nine sessions, and practical strategies you can implement immediately to build a more profitable, efficient travel business. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisors

In this first episode of the Summer Boundaries Series, Jennifer and Robin explain why your inbox might be running your business instead of supporting it. They share strategies for setting office hours, creating autoresponders that improve the client experience, using email signatures to reinforce boundaries, and building forms and automations that eliminate unnecessary back-and-forth. They also discuss the mindset shift every business owner needs to make: being constantly available isn't the same as delivering exceptional service. When your communication systems create clarity, your clients feel more confident, your business becomes more scalable, and you finally have the space to work on your business instead of spending every day reacting to your inbox.

Today we will cover:

(02:45) Why your inbox shouldn't be your task manager
(09:15) What every travel advisor should include in an autoresponder
(16:15) Using your email signature to reinforce boundaries and reduce liability
(26:35) Simple automations that save time without sacrificing personalization
(35:15) How proactive communication dramatically reduces incoming emails
(42:50) Why CEOs prioritize deep work over constant inbox management

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.
How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.
What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.
Client Onboarding Guide – Create a seamless onboarding experience and answer common questions before they arise.
Client Experience Templates – Ready-to-use email templates, forms, workflows, and client touchpoints designed to create a consistent, scalable client experience.

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!

Think you're annoying your audience? You're giving yourself way too much credit. Most people aren't seeing your content in the first place. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why the fear of "posting too much" is costing travel advisors potential clients, why confidence converts, and why the businesses that win are the ones willing to show up long after everyone else gets uncomfortable. And don't stop when the episode ends - stick around for the blooper reel, where things go completely off the rails!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisors

New levels, new devils. The strategies that get you to $1 million in sales aren't necessarily the same ones that will get you to $3 million. Angie Licea of Global Travel Collection shares the mindset shifts, systems, and leadership habits she sees among top-performing advisors, along with advice for building a business that grows with you instead of consuming you. From delegation and team structure to defining your value and avoiding burnout, this episode is full of actionable takeaways for advisors who want to scale with intention.

About Angie Licea:

Angie is President of Global Travel Collection (GTC), a division of Internova Travel Group and a $2.3 billion travel agency representing more than 1,500 independent advisors. With over 36 years in the travel industry, Angie has held leadership roles at US Airways, American Express/Rosenbluth International, and Travel Leaders Group. Today, she is passionate about helping travel advisors grow thriving businesses while championing the value of personalized service and the human touch in travel.

instagram.com/globaltravelcollection

joinus.globaltravelcollection.com

Today we will cover:

(01:30) Meet Angie Licea
(03:10) Why the jump from $1M to $3M is different
(09:00) Infrastructure, processes, and avoiding shiny objects
(20:00) Work-life balance and avoiding burnout
(29:20) What Highly Successful Advisors Do Differently
(34:50) There is no wrong way to build your business
(43:05) Diversifying without diluting your niche

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

How We Work & Investment Guide

Join the Niche Community

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

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You can't build a business around a blurry goal! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why every successful travel advisor needs a long-term vision before setting goals. They share the mistakes they made early in business, unpack the difference between vision and goals, and discuss how your pricing, offers, team, and daily decisions should all support the business (and life) you ultimately want to build. If you're ready to stop making reactionary decisions and start growing your travel business with intention, don't miss Jennifer's closing session at the Travel Business Intensive (August 24-26), where she'll help you turn your vision into a practical plan for growth! → Grab Your Ticket- Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Smeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisors

Building a successful travel business shouldn't come at the expense of your life. Mimi Lichtenstein, Founder of Truvay Travel, has created a thriving referral-only boutique advisory by putting her health, family, and priorities on the calendar before work ever begins. In this episode, she shares how intentional planning, time blocking, client boundaries, and smarter systems have helped her grow a profitable business without sacrificing the freedom that drew her to entrepreneurship in the first place. If you're ready to stop reacting to your calendar and start designing your business with intention, this episode is full of actionable ideas you can implement immediately!

About Mimi Lichtenstein:

Mimi didn't set out to become a luxury travel advisor. She set out to live a really good life - and somewhere along the way, helping others do the same became her work. After a year-long family sabbatical in Spain, she founded Truvay Travel, a referral-only boutique advisory based in Hanover, NH - and has been recognized as a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist for four consecutive years. Her approach is built on real connection, intentional contrast - street food and Michelin stars, refugios and five-star lodges - and a life designed the same way: health, family, and play first. Work built around them.

truvaytravel.com

linkedin.com/in/mimi-lichtenstein

instagram.com/truvaytravel

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Mimi's journey to becoming a travel advisor
(05:10) Why scheduling your priorities first leads to greater productivity
(09:00) Time-blocking and weekly planning strategies
(14:00) How to reduce decision fatigue and avoid burnout
(19:55) The importance of setting boundaries with clients
(34:45) Why saying "no" can help you build a more profitable business

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

Robin and Jennifer are exposing the most expensive marketing mistake of all, the one that never shows up on a credit card statement: doing it all yourself until you burn out. From wasted ad spend to vanity metrics that feel good but pay nothing, they share how shifting from random promotion to a strategic marketing engine transformed their business. Tune in as they discuss measuring ROI, finding the right audience, outsourcing wisely, and why chasing virality is basically the marketing equivalent of running really fast in the wrong direction.

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout

Not every client needs a $2,000-a-night hotel to feel like they're traveling in luxury. Natalie Payne, VP of Sales at Calliope Collective, joins this episode to discuss how travel advisors can create elevated client experiences by blending bucket-list hotels with high-value properties that deliver exceptional service and a true sense of place. Drawing on more than 25 years in the independent hotel world, Natalie shares how to identify a client's "passion points," decide where the budget matters most, and build itineraries that feel luxurious without unnecessary excess. You'll hear examples from Italy and Ireland, strategies for sequencing hotel stays, ideas for destination alternatives, and practical ways to use supplier relationships and rep firms as an extension of your team. Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or helping clients maximize their budget, this episode will help you deliver more value without sacrificing the wow factor!

About Natalie Payne:

Natalie is a seasoned sales leader and strategic partnerships expert with a background in luxury hospitality and service-based businesses. As Vice President of Sales at The Calliope Collective, she focuses on driving revenue growth and building high-value client relationships. With over 16 years at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Natalie brings deep expertise in luxury client experience, sales strategy, and partnership development. Her approach is relationship-driven, combining strong execution with a focus on sustainable, long-term growth.

thecalliopecollective.com

Today we will cover:

(04:30) Defining a splurge stay versus a value stay
(08:35) Balancing bucket-list hotels with budget priorities
(14:05) Does the order of hotel stays matter?
(21:00) Planning around passions instead of destinations
(26:20) How to build relationships with rep firms and suppliers

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

You asked for SOP templates. You downloaded the SOP templates. You have not touched the SOP templates. Sound familiar? In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin are here to give you the loving kick in the pants you need, because your business cannot scale, hire, or sell if every process lives inside your head. You’ll learn how to use AI and a dictation tool to crank out three SOPs in a 30-minute gap between meetings, why you should document before you automate, and how to keep your SOPs current without a total overhaul every year. Bottom line: your client experience, your financial health, and your ability to grow all depend on having documented processes. The good news? It has never been easier to build them!

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

ClickUp Business Hub Template

Join the Niche Community

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout

Growing your business shouldn't require working around the clock. Catherine Denham, founder of Catherine Denham Travel and an affiliate of Brownell Travel, shares how intentional systems, strategic hiring, and a commitment to exceptional service helped her transform a one-woman operation into a thriving, relationship-driven agency on track to surpass $5 million in sales. Catherine opens up about the lessons she learned from booking everything, undercharging, and trying to do it all herself. She also shares how personality profiles have shaped her hiring decisions and how the right processes have allowed her team to scale without sacrificing the personalized experience their clients value most.

About Catherine Denham:

Travel has shaped Catherine's life since childhood, when annual family adventures—across the country and around the world—inspired her curiosity and molded the way she sees the world. That early sense of wonder eventually led her into hospitality, where she began her career at Sea Island Resorts more than 20 years ago. Her passion for service has only deepened since. Today, as the founder of Catherine Denham Travel, she blends lifelong experience, industry expertise, and global relationships to craft seamless, one-of-a-kind journeys. From indulgent weekend escapes to intricate multi-country adventures, Catherine thrives on uncovering each client’s dreams and translating them into immersive itineraries enriched by insider access and thoughtful detail.

cdenhamtravel.com

instagram.com/catherine.denham.travel

Today we will cover:

(01:40) Catherine’s path to travel
(04:45) Why booking everything and not charging fees slowed her growth
(14:50) Hiring, team roles and workflow
(22:30) How monday.com, Dubsado, and Zoom support the team
(28:05) Using AI Without Losing Personalization
(34:25) How the Birkman method helped build the right team
(41:15) Catherine's long-term vision and the path toward $5 million in sales
(46:00) Small details that create big referrals

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!

AI seems to bring out strong opinions. Some people think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. Others act like using ChatGPT is the first step toward the robot apocalypse. In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer tackle the question many travel advisors are asking: Should you be avoiding AI? They share how their own perspective has changed and the simple ways they're using AI in their business; from meeting recaps and task management to tax questions and time blocking. They also discuss the three biggest pain points travel advisors face and how AI can help solve them without sacrificing personalization. This isn't about replacing humans. It's about removing the drag in your business so you can show up as the best version of yourself for your clients, your team, and your family.

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout

Heather Keller of Perfect Landing Travel returns to the show to share how she's leveraging AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and create more space for the work that drives growth. From client communications and workflow management to restaurant research and trip planning support, Heather has built a suite of custom GPTs that function as an extension of her team; bringing greater consistency, efficiency, and scalability to her business without sacrificing personalization.

Want to see Heather's GPTs in action? Join us inside the Niche Community on July 2 for a live demonstration where Heather will walk through the custom GPTs she uses to streamline operations, support her team, and deliver a more consistent client experience! Then, continue the conversation at Tique’s Travel Business Intensive, August 24-26!

About Heather Keller:

Heather is the founder of Perfect Landing Travel and a respected luxury travel advisor with more than a decade of industry experience. A consistent top producer with Departure Lounge since 2020, she has been recognized as a Travel + Leisure Rising Star and has helped lead her team to multiple industry nominations. Known for her psychology-informed approach to travel planning, Heather specializes in understanding what clients truly want from their travels—not just where they want to go, but how they want to feel. By combining deep client insight with innovative tools like AI, she creates highly personalized, high-touch travel experiences that feel effortless, thoughtful, and uniquely tailored to each traveler.

perfectlandingtravel.com

instagram.com/perfectlandingtravel

Today we will cover:

(03:00) ChatGPT vs. custom GPTs
(06:45) How Heather created GPTs for repeatable tasks and workflows
(14:55) Using AI for client communications
(20:55) Heather's favorite note-taking tools; Granola and Plaud
(26:05) Auditing, tweaking, and refining outputs over time
(28:10) How examples, standards, and boundaries improve output

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Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE!

If you're selling everything, you're known for nothing. In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer make the case for niching down; why it leads to better clients, stronger supplier relationships, and real pricing power. They bust the "but I'll miss bookings" myth, share examples of experts crushing it in ultra-specific lanes, and give you three questions to help you pick your own. Hit play now!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout

Katie Ferrari, Regional VP of Global Sales at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, breaks down how preferred partnerships work behind the scenes and why they’re about far more than just extra perks. You’ll learn how programs like Hyatt Privé help advisors create more personalized client experiences, strengthen direct hotel relationships, and advocate for travelers more effectively from booking to check-out. Katie also explains when it makes sense to book through a preferred partner versus a wholesaler or DMC, how loyalty programs and advisor benefits work, and why the best advisors know how to use relationships, not just rates, to elevate a trip.

About Katie Ferrari:

Katie Ferrari is the Regional Vice President of Global Sales at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where she leads sales teams across the Americas and oversees key relationships within Hyatt’s luxury, lifestyle, and leisure segments. A passionate hospitality leader, she is dedicated to building meaningful connections, mentoring others, and advancing colleague resource groups across the organization. Before joining Hyatt’s global sales team, Katie held leadership roles at Park Hyatt Washington and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. She lives in Atlanta with her husband, two daughters, and a rotating crew of foster kittens, and enjoys tennis, live entertainment, and travel.

linkedin.com/in/katieferrari

Learn more about Hyatt's Travel Professional Loyalty program and advisor benefits here: hyatt.com/events/en-US/groups/travel-professional-loyalty

Need help connecting your IATA number to your World of Hyatt account? Watch Hyatt's quick setup tutorial: World-of-Hyatt-Advisor-Planner-Profile-Setup-60s-1080p-EN.mp4

Today we will cover:

(03:00) What a preferred partnership means
(08:40) Hyatt Privé vs. consortia bookings: what’s the difference?
(10:15) How advisors market preferred partnerships to clients
(19:30) Advisor loyalty perks, qualifying tier nights, and client points
(27:30) Who advisors should contact at hotels and why relationships matter
(32:00) The future of advisor relationships

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Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE!

Robin and Jennifer kindly drag the idea that sales has to feel pushy, awkward, or manipulative. Instead of convincing clients to book, they explain how great sales calls are really about building trust, uncovering the client’s real problem, and creating genuine connection. From avoiding “word-vomit” discovery calls to using intentional questions, tailored messaging, and even silence strategically, they share how advisors can approach sales with more confidence, authenticity, and ease. Plus, they preview their August 24–26 Travel Business Intensive featuring Marsha-Ann Donaldson on selling with authority and authenticity.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Seven Figure Sales

Episode 152. The Legalities Of Selling With AI with Paige Griffith

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout

Jessica Marks, strategic advisor and host of the Millions Were Made podcast, joins this episode to talk about auditing your business, uncovering hidden profit opportunities, and stepping fully into a CEO role without burning yourself out in the process. From operational inefficiencies and messy client journeys to underperforming websites, broken sales processes, and the mindset shifts required to scale, this conversation dives deep into the systems that separate overwhelmed founders from sustainable, profitable businesses. Jessica shares how she built multiple companies while working roughly 20 hours a week, why “being needed” is not the goal, and how founders can leverage automation, AI, delegation, and strategic infrastructure to reclaim both their time and profitability. Whether you’re a solopreneur feeling maxed out or a growing agency owner trying to scale sustainably, this episode will give you insight into building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.

About Jessica Marx:

Jessica Marx is a globally recognized business strategist and the Founder of Tailored Premier, a global advisory firm helping entrepreneurs build scalable, high-performing, and sustainable businesses. A five-time Forbes Business Advisor and named a Top Female Advisor by Yahoo! Finance, she is known for translating complex business strategy into clear, actionable growth plans. With nearly two decades of executive leadership experience, Jessica has operated at the highest levels of multi-billion-dollar organizations, overseeing more than $150 million in annual budgets and leading teams of over 500 sales professionals. She has worked closely with executive leadership, CEOs, and boards to shape company-wide strategy and drive long-term growth. Today, she partners with entrepreneurs to simplify operations, scale strategically, and build businesses designed for both profitability and freedom.

tailoredpremier.com

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Episode 83: Attracting Ideal Clients & Fostering Relationships Built On Trust with Heather Keller

Episode 31: Leveraging Debt to Fuel Business Growth with Fractional CFO, Shay Bacani (Millions Were Made podcast)

Today we will cover:

(01:45) Jessica’s corporate background, IVF journey, and launching her business with twins
(05:00) The biggest mistake founders make when hiring help
(13:25) Building SOPs and systems that multiply your capabilities
(17:10) How branding, marketing, sales, and systems impact profitability
(19:15) The domino effect of marketing, sales, and client conversion
(28:10) How to audit your entire client journey step-by-step
(33:55) What it realistically looks like to step into a CEO role

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Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE!

Imposter syndrome? We don’t know her! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin unpack why so many travel advisors are undercharging, overextending themselves, and wondering why they’re burned out by clients who treat unlimited access like a personality trait. From planning fees and pricing psychology to luxury perception, boundaries, and profitable service suites, this conversation is your reminder that your business is not a nonprofit. Whether you book five-star Italy itineraries or budget-friendly cruises, the goal is the same: build a business that pays you, protects your time, and supports the life you’re trying to create. Plus, hear why Shay Bacani might convince you to raise your rates immediately at The Travel Business Intensive this August!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

From lighting and ambiance to design and sensory experience, the psychology of a space may matter more than most advisors realize. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Sara Bacon, founder of Opulist, a US-based searchable platform curating aesthetically compelling hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars based on vibe and design rather than traditional travel metrics. Sara shares her background in psychology and how her research into neuroaesthetics supports the idea that beauty signals safety, abundance, and comfort, ultimately shaping nervous-system regulation and overall guest satisfaction. You’ll learn how travel advisors can improve client experiences by psychologically matchmaking hotels to client personalities, elevating even the most functional trips through intentional venue selection, and using Opulist’s vetted visuals and map features to build more emotionally resonant itineraries. Sara also touches on branding, consumer behavior, romanticizing everyday experiences, and why modern travelers are ultimately buying a feeling, not just a destination.

About Sara Bacon:

Sara is the founder of Opulist, a design-forward media and discovery platform spotlighting the most beautifully designed places to stay, eat, and drink. She leads Opulist’s vision at the intersection of hospitality, travel, and design - building a trusted brand that celebrates beauty not just as a luxury, but as a vital part of how we experience the world. Sara calls Newport Beach, CA home, but will travel anywhere a stunning location beckons her to. She’s equally delighted by fancy restaurants and local dive bars, and believes that one of the truest expressions of gratitude for this life is to enjoy it fully. Through her work, she hopes to help others do the same.

opulist.co

instagram.com/opulist

Today we will cover:

(02:40) Meet Sarah Bacon; the origin of Opulist
(07:25) The science of neuroaesthetics and why beautiful spaces make us feel safe
(11:50) Why beauty and design influence creativity, abundance, and well-being
(15:40) Why even “functional” trips should feel intentional and elevated
(22:20) Psychological matchmaking: pairing hotels to client personalities
(27:55) How Opulist vets hotels, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops
(37:45) Content creation tips for capturing ambiance and “vibe”

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Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE!

Some clients are dream bookings. Others make you question your career choices before your second cup of coffee. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin get honest about toxic clients, scope creep, people-pleasing, and the moment you realize a trip is no longer profitable because a client is draining every ounce of your energy. They break down how to set boundaries before things spiral, when to try salvaging the relationship, and how to professionally “bless and release” a client without the guilt, drama, or five-paragraph apology email. Consider this your PSA to stop bending your business to fit the wrong people.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Scaling With Systems

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkout
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Carrie Wallace, CEO of FamGuru, shares how travel advisors can use FAM trips more strategically to grow their business. From choosing the right FAMs and preparing clients for out-of-office time to building stronger supplier relationships and retaining destination knowledge, this conversation is packed with advice advisors rarely talk about. Carrie also explains how FamGuru helps organize photos, notes, and supplier insights into usable content and post-trip reports. Plus, the conversation dives into the small details that make a big impact, such as thoughtful follow-up, proper etiquette, intentional networking, and how to stop returning home from FAMs feeling overwhelmed instead of equipped to sell.

About Carrie Wallace:

Carrie is the Chief Executive Officer of FamGuru. With more than 20 years as a travel advisor and agency owner, Carrie Wallace has explored over 80 countries across 5 continents. A natural problem solver and MBA graduate from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management, she combines deep industry relationships with a passion for innovation to simplify travel for advisors and clients alike. Carrie is also a frequent speaker on entrepreneurship, technology, and the future of the travel industry.

famguru.app

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 3: Preparing To Go OOO? Do These Things First

Mastering FAM Trips

Today we will cover:

(04:00) Why FamGuru exists
(11:30) Preparing clients & your business to go out of office
(15:40) Building better supplier relationships during FAMs
(20:35) Avoiding overwhelm & organizing information while traveling
(28:50) How FamGuru works before, during & after a trip
(33:25) Post-trip follow-up, feedback & relationship building

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Started your travel business with zero network, zero book of business, and zero luxury clients? Same! In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer discuss what it looks like to build a business from scratch when you don’t have a network or years of sales experience backing you. From awkward early marketing attempts to learning how to show up consistently online, this episode is the reminder that success isn’t about who you know. It’s about visibility, resilience, systems, and staying in the game long enough for people to finally pay attention. If you’ve been feeling behind, discouraged, or stuck in comparison mode, press play now!

Mentioned In This Episode:

Episode 83: Attracting Ideal Clients & Fostering Relationships Built On Trust with Heather Keller

Episode 168: How To Sell A Million In Your First Year with Katie Gibson

Seven Figure Sales

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Think a DMC is automatically out of your client’s budget? Think again! Jonathan Epstein, Chairman and owner of Celebrated Experiences, explains why that assumption is costing you better trips, smoother client experiences, and more profitable bookings. He also gives details on what really goes into DMC pricing. From navigating budget conversations to protecting your time and reputation, you’ll learn how the right destination partner can elevate your service without adding more to your plate. If you’ve been hesitating to reach out to a DMC because of price, this episode will change your mind!

About Jonathan Epstein:

Jonathan is Chairman of Celebrated Experiences, a leading luxury destination specialist for England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. Since joining the family business in 2006, he has helped grow the company from four employees to a 70-person team serving travel advisors across North America and Europe. Jonathan also founded Celebrated Impact, a charitable initiative that donates $1 for every hotel room night booked, contributing more than $400,000 to organizations and disaster recovery efforts. Passionate about mentorship and hospitality, he serves on several nonprofit and industry boards. A Birmingham native and Trinity College economics graduate, Jonathan lives in Atlanta with his wife and two children.

instagram.com/celebratedexperiences

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Supplier Communication Templates: tiquehq.com/shop/supplier-communication-templates

Start With Why by Simon Sinek: amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447

Today we will cover:

(01:50) Meet Jonathan Epstein; what makes Celebrated Experiences different
(04:10) DMC vs. destination specialist
(11:00) Working efficiently with mid-range clients
(17:40) The “5-minute rule” that shapes the entire trip experience
(28:30) Peeling back DMC pricing
(34:00) Planning fees + why they matter to your partners
(40:35) Red flags with client funds and financial handling
(51:40) Overcoming fear of losing clients
(55:10) Let experts create the magic

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Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

TIQUE’S TRAVEL ADVISOR APPRECIATION SALE IS LIVE!

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Should you put your pricing on your website? Yes. Full stop.

Jennifer and Robin make the case for fee transparency, because hiding your pricing doesn't convert skeptics, it just attracts the wrong clients. Robin shares a cringe-worthy Botox appointment story that proves exactly what happens when financial surprises ambush people mid-process, and Jennifer breaks down the many ways to coach clients on investment before they ever land on your calendar. Clear is kind, "starting at" is your best friend, and the right clients won't bat an eye.

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Multi-destination trips look dreamy until the seams start to show. In this episode, Milena Stancati of Travel Collection dives into what makes complex itineraries work and where many advisors quietly lose control. From missed transfers and mismatched service levels to chaotic handoffs between countries, she shares the exact points where trips fall apart and how to fix them before your client ever notices. You’ll learn how to structure trips like a story with intentional pacing, why “three nights minimum” changes everything, and the behind-the-scenes systems top advisors use to manage multi-country travel without the overwhelm. If you want to sell bigger, more complex trips without the stress (or the risk), this is the episode you need to hear!

About Milena Stancati:

Milena Stancati is a travel industry leader and Head of Business Development at Travel Collection Limited, where she partners with travel advisors across North America. With nearly seven years at Context Travel, she helped scale global experiences and deepen culturally driven travel. Raised in an Italian-American family, her love of travel was sparked by stories of heritage and history, leading to a lifelong passion for exploring the world. She’s visited 70+ countries and spent a year traveling across continents with Remote Year. Now based in Charlotte, Milena brings a thoughtful, story-first approach to travel, and when she’s not working, she’s chasing her goal of running a half marathon in every U.S. state.

instagram.com/travelcollectionltd

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Travel Collection Form

Simple Fee Calculator

Today we will cover:

(03:00) Meet Milena Stancati; Travel Collection
(08:55) The biggest failure points (the “seams”)
(17:30) How to fix the seams before they break
(24:00) Structuring a multi-country itinerary that flows
(33:20) Client briefs, transition checklists, and partner coordination
(40:30) How to structure planning fees for multi-destination trips
(43:10) Post-trip debriefs; improving future trips

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TIQUE’S TRAVEL ADVISOR APPRECIATION SALE IS LIVE!

Enjoy 20% OFF May 4th-8th → SHOP NOW

You thought starting a travel business meant freedom, flexibility, and maybe even five-star perks. But behind the scenes? It’s duct-taped systems, second-guessing every decision, and wondering why it still feels so hard. In this fiery Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin pull back the curtain on the real reason your business isn’t flowing and it has nothing to do with your talent. It’s what you’re avoiding. The investments, the systems, the foundations that separate hobbyists from professionals. This episode is the line in the sand. Keep piecing it together and stay stuck, or finally build something that works. Need additional guidance? Email hello@tiquehq.com!

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Group trips sound like easy money until you’re managing contracts, chasing availability, and realizing your “100 guests” is really just 60. In this episode, Marilyn Cairo, VP of Sales for Groups at Classic Vacations, breaks down what makes group bookings and destination weddings run smoothly and profitably. From qualifying clients and locking in dates to navigating contracts, attrition, concessions, and those last-minute weather calls, this is a clear, no-fluff look at how to book large groups the right way so you can avoid the headaches later. If you’re ready for group trips to feel streamlined, strategic, and profitable, this is the episode to press play on!

About Marilyn Cairo:

Marilyn is a seasoned sales leader with over 30 years in the travel industry, known for driving revenue growth and building high-performance teams. She combines strategic vision, disciplined execution, and strong client relationships to consistently exceed goals and elevate performance. A respected speaker and thought leader, she delivers practical insights on sales, branding, and innovation that challenge teams to evolve and perform. Currently serving as Vice President of Sales, Groups at Classic Vacations, Marilyn continues to shape modern sales leadership with a results-driven and people-focused approach.

linkedin.com/in/marilyn-cairo-sales-leader

classicvacations.com/v2/ta-registration

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Sales Call Roadmap:tiquehq.com/sales-call

Travel Advisor Contracts: thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor?aff=143

Episode 156. Group Bookings 101: Contract vs. Flex with Ateet Ajuha

Today we will cover:

(02:05) Meet Marilyn Cairo
(05:40) How to properly qualify a group client
(12:20) Dates, destinations, and setting realistic expectations early
(21:45) Contracts 101: how the process works through Classic Vacations
(26:00) Why every advisor needs a client contract before signing anything
(29:35) Advisor vs onsite planner
(34:45) Concessions explained: what you can actually ask for
(40:20) Using group tech to simplify everything
(49:15) Tapping into corporate incentive travel

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The world feels chaotic and your clients can feel it too. So what actually happens to your business when uncertainty hits? And more importantly, how do you stay booked when everyone else is hesitating? In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer talk about how to navigate unpredictable seasons without losing momentum. From what to say to clients right now to how to adjust your booking strategy, systems, and offers, this is the behind-the-scenes guidance most advisors don’t think about until it is too late. If bookings feel slower or clients are second guessing, this episode will show you how to pivot with confidence, stay visible, and position yourself as the expert people trust when it matters most. Because the advisors who get this right are not just surviving these seasons, they are coming out stronger because of them.

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHE

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Meredith Calloway, co-founder of Gifted Travel Network (GTN), breaks down what it really takes to build a long-lasting career in travel. She shares why so many advisors stay stuck in an employee mindset, and how shifting into intentional entrepreneurship starts with getting clear on your message, audience, and brand. The conversation also dives into mental fitness, unpacking how fear, limiting beliefs, and industry setbacks like 9/11 and COVID shape your growth, and how to tell the difference between intuition and avoidance. You’ll walk away with practical, CEO-level shifts you can start implementing today - from reverse-engineering your revenue goals to investing in yourself, surrounding yourself with the right community, and building habits that support long-term success!

About Meredith Calloway:

On a mission to help entrepreneurs build businesses they love, centered around their passion for travel, Meredith draws on more than 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, lessons learned through trial and error, and a deeply cultivated resilient success mindset. In 2001, she left her career on Wall Street to establish her own boutique travel agency, Hills of Africa Travel. She founded the Global Institute for Travel Entrepreneurs (GIFTE) in 2011, providing education and support to help “accidental hobbyist” travel advisors build sustainable businesses. In 2013, she co-founded Gifted Travel Network (GTN) alongside Jennifer Cochrane and Vanessa McGovern to address gaps within the host agency landscape. GTN introduced a comprehensive, all-in-one approach to marketing, business strategy, and mindset education for travel advisors. While leading both GIFTE and GTN, she ultimately chose to sunset GIFTE in 2021 to focus fully on GTN’s mission: delivering an elevated hosting experience for luxury travel advisors.

giftedtravelnetwork.com

linkedin.com/in/meredithhill

instagram.com/meredith.calloway

Today we will cover:

(02:40) Meredith’s journey: leaving Wall Street to start a travel business
(05:10) Why your brand must start with your message and ideal client
(09:40) What it really takes to build a six-figure travel business
(13:55) Reframing challenges; setbacks vs. comebacks
(20:35) Intuition vs. fear
(26:45) Practical shifts to thrive as an advisor

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If you’re still not using Loom, you’re making your sales process harder than it needs to be. Robin and Jennifer break down how voice, tone, and storytelling drive higher conversions, why your “perfect” PDF is getting skimmed (or ignored), and how Loom removes friction in a way calls and emails simply can’t. They also share exactly how to use it without feeling awkward on camera, how it can increase your average booking value, and how to make your offers feel more personal without adding more to your plate. If you’ve been saying “I’ll never use Loom,” this might be the episode that proves you wrong!

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHE

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Madi Lang of BA Cultural Concierge breaks down the difference between mass-produced experiences and the kind of travel that truly means something. The kind you feel, not just check off a list. She shares what “authentic” really looks like behind the scenes and why most so-called authentic experiences completely miss the mark - using tango as the perfect example of the shift from staged shows to one-on-one, expert-led moments. Madi explains how advisors can build and vet the right supplier relationships, ask better questions, and design life-changing experiences. You’ll also hear what sustainability looks like in practice, from fair pay and supporting local teams to transparent pricing and thoughtful tipping. If you want to create itineraries that feel intentional, personal, and rooted in culture, this is where it starts!

About Madi Lang:

Madi is the founder of BA Cultural Concierge, a boutique, on-the-ground travel design company based in Argentina. For over 16 years, she's been working closely with clients and travel advisors to create culturally immersive, ethically minded journeys across Argentina and Latin America. Living and operating locally, Madi brings a supplier-side perspective that helps advisors look beyond surface-level luxury and ask smarter questions about logistics, authenticity, sustainability, and guest experience. Her work focuses on designing trips that are seamless, values-aligned, and deeply rooted in place — from Patagonia lodges to private cultural experiences in Buenos Aires and beyond. She’s especially passionate about helping advisors confidently vet partners, avoid common destination mistakes, and build itineraries that are intentional rather than transactional.

baculturalconcierge.com

Today we will cover:

(02:25) Madi’s story and how BA Cultural Concierge began
(09:35) What makes an experience truly feel authentic
(11:45) Becoming the “matchmaker” between client and supplier
(20:20) Moving beyond “hidden gem” and other overused buzzwords
(24:50) What sustainability looks like in travel
(32:05) What a values-aligned supplier relationship looks like

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

ClickUp Business Hub Template

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If you feel like you’re drowning in hotel research, this is your sign to stop trying to do it all! In this extra spicy Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer explain why over-researching is holding advisors back and how leveraging DMCs and trusted partners leads to better client experiences, less risk, and more time to grow your business. Plus, what to do when a recommendation isn’t quite right and why those DMC fees are doing more for you than you think. It’s time to step out of the weeds, trust your network, and finally operate like a true curator, not an overworked researcher. Hit play now!

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHE

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Feeling overwhelmed but not sure if you’re “ready” to hire help? Chelsea Benkner, founder of Outwork Collective, shares how her own struggle to find reliable, travel-specific support led her to build a VA firm designed specifically for advisors. Learn which tasks are worth outsourcing (think admin-heavy, non-revenue work like itineraries, CRMs, inbox management, and trip audits), what should stay on your plate, and how the right support can even help generate more revenue behind the scenes. Chelsey also talks about the systems you need in place before hiring, why most people get outsourcing wrong, and how to set your VA up for success from day one.

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHE

About Chelsey Benkner:

Chelsey is the founder of Outwork Collective, a virtual assistant agency built specifically for the travel industry. As the owner of Ready Jet Go Travels, she saw firsthand that most “VA support” didn’t understand the realities of the travel industry. Outwork Collective was created to change that by training VAs in the systems, workflows, and risk management that travel businesses actually require. Her mission is simple: help travel advisors stop drowning in operations and start running stronger businesses.

outworkcollective.com

facebook.com/outworkco

instagram.com/outwork.collective

Today we will cover:

(01:30) Why advisors need support
(04:35) IC vs employee VAs: what you need to know
(08:30) What you should never outsource in your business
(19:15) Inbox management + communication audits
(29:35) Project-based vs ongoing support
(36:25) Biggest mistakes when hiring a VA

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 195. Hot Take: Stop Looking For The Magic Unicorn Hire

Episode 196. Enhancing Itineraries With Custom Experiences with Rob Keen

Client Communication Templates

SOP Template & Checklist

Profitable Proposals Masterclass

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Robin and Jennifer challenge the idea that you need one-on-one coaching to grow your business. After investing in coaching themselves, they give their honest feedback on when it’s actually helpful and when it becomes a distraction. They explain why most advisors don’t have a knowledge problem, but a focus and execution problem, and how accountability, peer support, and existing resources can often deliver better results than high-ticket programs. If you’ve been considering coaching or feeling stuck in your business, this episode will help you refocus on what actually moves the needle!

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHE

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Jennifer talks with Sarah Eppler, a Niche community member who used the Seven Figure Sales tools to rebuild her service suite around real profitability. After digging into the numbers and realizing her pricing didn’t reflect her actual time or overhead, Sarah reached out with questions, leading to a deeper look at how to make the math actually work. In this episode, they break down how to work backwards from your income goal, track your time, and price your services based on real labor, trip complexity, and client expectations. Sarah shares what surprised her most when mapping out her time, how she restructured and raised her trip design fees, and how that clarity completely changed her confidence in client conversations. You’ll also hear how to qualify clients upfront, reduce time drains like endless revisions and drawn-out timelines, and stop over-delivering in ways that hurt your bottom line.

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHE

About Sarah Eppler:

Sarah is the founder of Sarah Eppler Travel, a luxury travel agency specializing in exclusive, meticulously planned experiences for busy professionals and their families. Before launching her business, she spent over 20 years as a marketing leader with various professional services and media companies, building revenue-generating marketing functions that aligned go-to-market strategies with how people actually buy. She brings that same commercial rigor to conversations about the foundational work that drives a profitable service business — knowing your audience, nailing your positioning, and building a pricing strategy rooted in real numbers.

sarahepplertravel.com

instagram.com/sarahepplertravel

Today we will cover:

(02:45) Sarah’s career pivot from B2B marketing to travel advisor
(05:30) Why doing the math matters; new packages and pricing
(12:40) Client reactions to charging fees
(16:00) Should you put your pricing on your website?
(22:40) Time tracking reality check; mapping your buyer’s journey
(30:10) Nice-to-haves vs. must-haves in your process
(35:10) What Sarah would do differently

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Seven Figure Sales

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Flytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photography
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Thinking about switching host agencies or going independent? In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer break down the difference between travel advisor responsibilities and host agency responsibilities, and why changing hosts just because another offers different perks isn’t always the answer. They talk through what hosts actually provide behind the scenes, what advisors should be building on their own, and the questions to ask before deciding if independence is the right next step.

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHE

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Episode 79. Host Agency Culture: Finding The Perfect Fit For Your Travel Business with Stephanie Lee

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Luxury travel advisor Gia Lee started her business with no clients, no track record, and no industry experience. One year later, she scaled to over $2M in sales. In this episode, Gia shares what happened when she decided to stop dabbling and truly go all in. From investing in branding before she had a single client to hiring help earlier than most advisors would, she walks through the decisions that helped her build momentum fast. Gia also opens up about the less glamorous side of rapid growth: the late nights, the sacrifices, and the mindset shift required to bet on yourself when no one else has proof yet. It’s an honest look at what it really takes to start from scratch and build something that works.

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHE

About Gia Lee:

Gia was born in South Korea, raised in the Philippines, and has lived everywhere from Salamanca, Spain to London, UK and Madison, Wisconsin. Today, she calls the Chicago suburbs home, where she balances life as a wife and mother to three wonderfully busy girls. With a truly global upbringing, she brings an international perspective to everything she does. Her background has kept her closely connected to emerging trends in fashion, food, design, and most importantly, travel. As the Founder of The Booking Club, an affiliate of Embark Beyond, she blends cultural fluency with elevated travel expertise to curate meaningful, design-forward experiences for her clients around the world.

thebookingclubtravel.com

instagram.com/thebookingclub

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Meet Gia: from food business to luxury fashion styling
(05:40) Going all in as a travel advisor
(10:45) The tools she used to start her business
(15:40) Standing out with social proof
(21:00) DIY branding and building a luxury aesthetic
(27:00) Creating meaningful client surprises and memorable moments
(32:00) The real sacrifices behind rapid business growth

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Free Workshop: Defining Your Non-Negotiable Boundaries

Client Communication Templates

Episode 191. Hot Take: You Need A CRM

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC’s DMCs

Apartments and Airbnbs might seem like a great option for clients traveling with groups, but they can quickly become an advisor’s biggest headache. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin share real stories of what can go wrong when advisors don’t control the accommodations, including last-minute cancellations, fake listings, and even a situation that cost Jennifer $5,000 to fix. You’ll learn why privately owned rentals often create more risk than reward, how misaligned expectations can derail a trip, and what advisors should do when clients insist on booking their own accommodations.

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep201&utm_content=Niche

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Many business owners still think SEO is about keywords and blog posts. But AI has completely changed how people search. Today’s search results aren’t just links. They’re summaries generated by tools like Google AI, ChatGPT, and other platforms that pull information from across the internet. Which means if your business isn’t showing up in those sources, potential clients may never find you. In this episode, Lauren Kutschke of Salted Pages explains how search is evolving and what travel advisors need to know to stay visible online. Learn how AI is changing search behavior, why website traffic may actually decrease but lead quality can increase, and the simple SEO strategies that can help advisors get discovered by the right clients!

Want to go deeper on this topic? Join Lauren on April 9th inside the Niche community! Hands-On SEO: How To Research And Apply Keywords And Optimize Your Website → JOIN NICHE

About Lauren Kutschke:

Lauren is an SEO copywriter and web designer who makes waves for salt-of-the-earth brands from Alaska to the Amalfi Coast. She provides 100% human-written content and tasteful designs to ensure memorable websites that rank online and book the right clients. She has over a decade of experience and a roster of 500+ brands. Away from the keyboard, she enjoys walking her dog, dining alfresco at vegetarian restaurants and traveling — ideally in a sailboat, but usually via airplane.

saltedpages.com

instagram.com/saltedpages

Grab the AI Search Checklist

Today we will cover:

(02:45) Meet Lauren Kutschke of Salted Pages
(05:00) Why good copy matters more than ever in an AI world
(09:20) SEO basics crash course
(16:35) How website copy is evolving for modern search
(23:40) Why transparency and authorship matter for AI search
(28:15) Where advisors should focus their SEO efforts first
(32:30) Blog dates and evergreen URLs; SEO myths
(39:40) SEO vs social media for lead generation

Recourses mentioned in this Episode:

Free Workshop: Defining Your Non-Negotiable Boundaries

ClickUp Business Hub Template

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Moving fast in business can cost you. In this Hot Take, Jennifer shares two expensive mistakes from her early travel advisor days and the systems she built to prevent them from happening again. From auditing itineraries to working with the right suppliers and getting client sign off, this episode is a reminder that slowing down is often what protects your profit, reputation, and sanity.

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep199&utm_content=Niche

Get the Client Communication Templates → https://www.tiquehq.com/client-experience-templates

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Thinking about launching a group trip? Before you pick a destination and start marketing it, listen to this! Megan Grant Pederson of Cherish Tours shares exactly what it takes to create, price, sell, and host profitable small group travel. From contract negotiations and attrition clauses to margin strategy, launch timelines, early bird pricing, and the real costs most advisors overlook, this episode is your crash course in doing group travel the right way. If you’ve ever thought, “I plan trips all the time. How hard could group travel be?” this episode will give you the clarity (and caution) you need before you dive in!

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep198&utm_content=Niche

About Megan Grant Pederson:

Megan is the Founder & Chief Memory Creator of Cherish Tours, a women-centered travel company she has built and operated since 2021. With a background in conference planning and a passport full of 45+ countries (including 10+ solo trips), she believes deeply that travel has the power to make a difference in our world and directly support the economic empowerment of women. Megan brings hands-on expertise in sustainable tourism, women-owned global businesses, and creating meaningful small-group journeys that inspire confidence, connection, and transformation.

Interest Form: gocherishtours.activehosted.com/f/25

gocherishtours.com

instagram.com/gocherishtours

Today we will cover:

(05:30) Known groups vs. resell models
(10:20) Pricing strategy: margin, attrition & paying yourself
(15:05) Why most group trips fail
(25:25) DIY itineraries vs. DMCs
(35:00) How to launch a trip
(38:40) Touchpoints before departure
(45:15) Collecting feedback before departure
(48:30) Advisor partnerships and FAMs

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Awards look impressive, but they are not the true measure of a thriving business. In this spicy Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin unpack the pressure to chase industry recognition, the relationship dynamics behind many awards, and why referrals, revenue, and client trust matter far more. They also share how to approach awards strategically, what judges are really looking for inside applications, and why tracking clear metrics makes the biggest difference. If you’re feeling discouraged watching others collect accolades, this episode will help you refocus on what actually moves your business forward. Hit play for the pep-talk you didn’t know you needed!

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep197&utm_content=Niche

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Flights and hotels may get booked first, but experiences are what clients remember most. Rob Keen of Project Expedition joins this episode to share how tours and activities can elevate itineraries, create passive revenue opportunities, and help advisors meet clients at different budgets and planning styles without adding extra work.

After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep196&utm_content=Niche

About Rob Keen:

Rob is Co-Founder of Project Expedition, a company dedicated to curating tours, activities, and in-destination experiences for the travel advisor community. He leads strategic growth, partnerships, and product innovation to help advisors offer unforgettable travel experiences.

projectexpedition.com

linkedin.com/in/robkeenpe

Today we will cover:

(03:40) Meet Rob: from finance to Project Expedition
(10:30) White labeling, referral links, and different client planning styles
(12:30) Budget flexibility and increasing trip value closer to departure
(18:30) Where tours fit naturally into your workflow and confirmation emails
(23:00) Repeat business and the ROI of offering tours and activities
(28:00) Custom requests, group experiences, and designing unique tours
(34:30) Popular destinations and where demand is growing

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Everyone wants a “unicorn hire” - someone who can manage client experience, handle marketing, audit invoices, run social media, and basically fix everything overnight. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why that person doesn’t exist and why trying to hire one is setting your business up for frustration. They discuss the difference between administrative support and true specialization, why unclear expectations lead to failed hires, and how to audit your time so you can delegate, automate, or dump tasks strategically. They also tackle the money mindset around outsourcing and share why investing in specialists can actually drive more revenue, reduce costly errors, and remove you as the bottleneck in your own growth. If you’re feeling maxed out but unsure who to hire first, this episode will help you stop searching for magic and start hiring with intention!

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep195&utm_content=Niche

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After living with a degenerative muscle disease and experiencing an accident that limited her independence, Karen Morales began adapting travel for herself and her family. What started as necessity quickly became expertise as clients began asking how she navigated safaris, Europe, and luxury resorts while using a wheelchair. In this episode, Karen breaks down why accessible travel extends far beyond wheelchair users. From food allergies and chronic conditions to situational injuries and age-related mobility changes, many travelers need accommodations even if they do not identify as disabled. She reveals why the real industry gap is not infrastructure but communication, what advisors often overlook, and how to ask better intake questions without overstepping. If you want to plan personalized luxury trips that truly work for every client, this conversation will shift how you approach accessibility.

Looking for more resources to elevate your travel business? Join the Niche Community where ambitious advisors learn proven systems, get ongoing support, and grow their business with confidence. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep194&utm_content=Niche

About Karen Morales:

Karen built a successful career in advertising and marketing as both a founder and executive before turning a lifelong love of travel into work that helps people experience the world more fully. After beginning to use a wheelchair in 2020, her relationship to travel changed and so did her mission. Karen set out to help the travel industry serve more people and open more of the world to them by pairing accessibility with what luxury travel does best: genuine, thoughtful hospitality. Through her work with Fora, she has trained hundreds of advisors, supported thousands of travelers, and helped close more than $100 million in travel in 2025 alone. By building this work through Fora, Karen is helping shape a travel industry where more people can go more places, with accessibility embedded at the heart of great hospitality.

gojoyward.com

instagram.com/gojoyward

foratravel.com

Today we will cover:

(02:40) Meet Karen: from marketing consultant to accessible travel advisor
(06:50) How to ask clients about accommodations without overstepping
(10:00) Situational vs. identity based accessibility
(16:30) The real industry gap; communication, not infrastructure
(20:30) Why hospitality feels different abroad
(28:20) Luxury without sacrifice; the accessibility gap in high-end travel
(33:55) Marketing accessible travel without labeling clients

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

They’re liking your posts. They’re asking about your business. They’re booking…without you. And it’s driving you insane. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin say the quiet part out loud: some people will never be your clients. And it’s not because your marketing isn’t working, but because they simply don’t want what you offer. From friends who book their honeymoon elsewhere to family who blur boundaries to travelers who genuinely love planning their own trips, they unpack why chasing the wrong people feels so exhausting and why trying to “convince” them is what makes sales feel gross. Because the moment you stop marketing to everyone is the moment your business gets easier.

Ready to stop chasing the wrong clients? Inside Niche, you’ll find the Defining Your Dream Client guide + real conversations and strategies to help you attract the right people. Join now! → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep193&utm_content=Niche

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Not all social media platforms are created equal, and not all of them deserve your time. In this episode, Caroline Langdon of Impact Media House talks about choosing the right platform based on where your ideal clients actually hang out, instead of pouring energy into Instagram or TikTok just because everyone else says you should. Learn how to spot the signals that reveal who your true audience is, why niching down makes your marketing easier, how to match the right type of content to the right platform, and what Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and LinkedIn are really best used for. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by social media, unsure where to show up, or frustrated that your efforts aren’t turning into leads, this episode will help you simplify, focus, and finally get real ROI from your marketing!

Ready to take this topic even further? Don’t miss Caroline’s live training inside the Niche community where she’ll show you exactly how to batch a full month of content in a single day. Join now! → tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep192&utm_content=Niche

About Caroline Langdon:

Caroline is a full-time traveler who has been living and working remotely for the past two years, designing a life centered around freedom, exploration, and purpose. Through her travels, she’s built strong connections within the travel advisor community — a group she admires for their shared love of travel, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to building meaningful businesses. Caroline is inspired by advisors who use travel as a vehicle not just for income, but for creating lives aligned with their goals, values, and vision. Her work focuses on supporting growth, storytelling, and connection within this space.

instagram.com/impactmediahouse

impactmediahouse.co

Today we will cover:

(02:30) How to identify your target audience
(08:10) The power of niching down
(11:00) Instagram: your visual resume
(16:40) Facebook: community and referrals
(18:50) TikTok: incredible for discovery, weak for community
(21:30) Pinterest: turning blogs into a traffic machine
(24:15) LinkedIn: the most underrated platform
(26:45) What to post on each platform

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

In the spiciest Hot Take yet, Jennifer and Robin call out a problem they didn’t realize was this widespread: successful travel advisors running entire businesses from memory, inboxes, and spreadsheets. And they don’t mince words. A CRM isn’t “nice to have.” It’s the difference between overwhelm and control, chaos and consistency, boutique service and a truly repeatable luxury client experience. If your processes live in your head, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar. And if you’ve been putting off setting up a CRM because it feels like “too much work,” this conversation will convince you it’s the work that changes everything.

Unsure which CRM is right for you? Join Niche for real advisor feedback and the insights you need to choose the one that fits your brain and your business. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep191&utm_content=Niche

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Most travel advisors say they’re “part of a consortium”, but very few actually know what that means for their business. In this episode, Karryn Christopher, President of Signature Travel Network, to unpack what consortia are really doing behind the scenes to support travel advisors through technology, marketing, training, and preferred partnerships. Karryn explains what it truly means for Signature to be a member-owned cooperative, why preferred partners are about protection and not just perks, how advisors are underusing the resources already available to them, and why data, AI, and education are shaping the future of successful travel businesses.

If this conversation made you realize you want more help actually applying these ideas inside your own business, that’s exactly what we work on every day inside Niche - proven systems, ongoing support, and the confidence to grow your travel business with intention. Join now! → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep190&utm_content=Niche

About Karryn Christopher:

Karryn Christopher is President of Signature Travel Network, where she works across all teams to support the mission of equipping members and advisors with the tools, resources, and support they need to grow successful travel businesses. Founded in 1956, Signature is a member-owned travel cooperative representing more than 280 agencies, 15,000 advisors worldwide, and over $11 billion in annual travel sales. Signature is known for its strong preferred partnerships, innovative technology, marketing and training programs, and its commitment to giving back through the Travel Elevates foundation.

joinsignaturetravelnetwork.com

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Understanding consortia and Signature's unique model
(05:45) Leveraging consortium resources for business growth
(09:50) How preferred partners protect your reputation and your income
(15:00) The #1 underused resource inside most consortia
(29:30) Travel Elevates: how Signature is helping travel give back globally
(35:15) Why consortia trade shows are different from host events

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Many advisors are starting to ask the same question: Should I get a business partner?

Burnout, isolation, and wearing every hat in the business has many wondering if teaming up is the answer. As long-time 50/50 business partners, Jennifer and Robin share what their partnership looks like behind the scenes and the questions most advisors aren’t asking before entering an agreement that affects their brand, income, and future. They also reveal the financial model least likely to create tension and why many advisors may actually need support that could be solved by hiring, not partnering. If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe I just need a business partner,” this episode will help you pause, ask smarter questions, and think long term instead of reacting to what feels hard right now.

Press play, then head to the Niche Community Resource Vault to download the Annual

Business Audit worksheet and the Goal-setting worksheet → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep189&utm_content=Niche

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Five-star service has less to do with planning, and more to do with people. Former Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis concierge turned travel advisor, Jessica Gorman, joins this episode to unpack what five-star service really looks like behind the scenes and what many advisors are missing.

Jessica shares how concierges think, why relationships matter more than reservations, and why advisors should stop trying to do everything themselves and start leaning on the people trained to create in-destination magic. From pulling off the impossible for guests to setting boundaries as a solopreneur, this conversation will change how you think about service, client experience, and your role as a travel advisor.

Five-star service isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing the right things.

Inside TIQUE’s Niche community, we show you how!

Learn proven systems, get ongoing support, and grow your travel business with confidence. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep188&utm_content=Niche

About Jessica Gorman:

With 16 years in luxury hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis, Jessica built her career across sales, events, and concierge, earning membership in Les Clefs d’Or, the prestigious international association of concierges. She now brings that same five-star service mindset to her work as a travel advisor, curating highly personalized, detail-driven travel experiences with VIP access, thoughtful planning, and a focus on unforgettable luxury for every client.

globaltravelcollection.com/travel-agent/291702/jessica-gorman

instagram.com/conciergecuratedtravel

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Jessica's journey to becoming a Les Clefs d'Or concierge
(06:00) Why building relationships with concierges changes the client experience
(10:30) What concierges know about service that advisors never see
(18:50) How to create a more seamless experience by doing less
(24:00) Setting boundaries while delivering high-touch service
(31:00) The one concierge habit every advisor should adopt

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Are you doing way more work for your clients than they actually need…and getting paid the same no matter what? In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why offering one all-inclusive level of service is quietly burning advisors out, and how a simple tiered service suite can change everything. Learn what basic, mid-level, and concierge tiers should look like, and how clearly showing your service levels and starting prices on your website instantly filters for the right people. They also introduce a formula-based planning fee approach that takes the emotion and guesswork out of pricing, so you can confidently explain exactly how your fees are calculated based on trip complexity. If you’re tired of bending over backward for every trip and still feeling maxed out, this episode shows you how to tighten your process, protect your time, and serve clients more intentionally.

Press play, then head to the Niche Community for more resources, support, and real conversations around pricing, boundaries, and building a more sustainable travel business. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep185&utm_content=Niche

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Guida Botelho from The Travel Institute joins this episode to talk about the significance of certifications for travel advisors. She shares her career background with The Travel Institute, the role it’s played in shaping advisor education since 1964, and what certifications are really meant to do beyond adding letters to your name. You’ll learn how certifications should be used, why they still matter in today's travel landscape, and why foundational education is key to building a sustainable, professional business. If you’ve ever wondered whether certifications are worth the time and investment, this conversation is for you. And if you’re looking for more resources to elevate your travel business, be sure to join the Niche Community!

Niche is the premier travel agent community where ambitious advisors learn proven systems, get ongoing support, and grow their business with confidence. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep186&utm_content=Niche

About Guida Botelho:

Guida is Vice President of The Travel Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing professionalism and career success in the travel industry through education. In this role, Guida provides strategic leadership across education, partnerships, and workforce development initiatives that strengthen the industry and elevate the value of professional credentials. Known for a clear-eyed, results-driven approach, Guida champions education that delivers real-world application, career mobility, and long-term relevance. By aligning learning pathways with industry needs, partner priorities, and emerging trends, Guida plays a key role in shaping the future of travel education and ensuring advisors are prepared to compete—and win—in an evolving marketplace.

thetravelinstitute.com

gbotelho@thetravelinstitute.com

linkedin.com/in/guida-botelho-ctie-b36603284

Scholarship link: thetravelinstitute.com/travel-agent-training-scholarship

Today we will cover:

(03:30) How The Travel Institute has shaped advisor education
(08:45) Why credibility and education matter more than ever
(11:00) How certifications impact client trust and professionalism
(18:00) Using education to improve sales and client conversations
(27:30) Avoiding burnout and building a long-term travel business
(30:30) How to leverage certifications strategically

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

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Something has quietly shifted in the travel industry and advisors are feeling it. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin talk about a pattern that’s showing up again and again inside the Niche community, and it’s changing how trips are being booked, planned, and managed behind the scenes. What used to take years of planning is now happening fast! Expectations are higher, timelines are shorter, and the margin for error has never been slimmer. For advisors, this shift is exciting, but it also exposes exactly where businesses are strong and where they’re vulnerable.

No doubt about it: 2026 isn’t rewarding hustle. It’s rewarding those who are prepared and unshakeable. Are you ready?

Have a topic you’d like discussed in a future Hot Take?

Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep185&utm_content=Niche

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Sales doesn’t have to feel awkward or pushy and this episode proves it! Sales strategist Sarah Murray returns to discuss what actually moves clients from “just thinking about a trip” to confidently booking with you, without burning yourself out or chasing people who were never serious to begin with. This conversation reframes sales as relationship-building and positions you as the guide through every stage of the booking lifecycle. You’ll learn how to spot high-intent leads, avoid getting derailed on discovery calls, follow up without feeling awkward, and move clients forward in a way that feels aligned, professional, and sustainable. If you’re tired of tire-kickers, ghosting, or feeling like sales is the hardest part of your business, this episode is a must-listen! Want to go deeper in this topic? Sarah will be teaching The Art of the Effortless Upsell inside the Niche Community on February 12th - Don’t miss out!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep184&utm_content=Niche

About Sara Murray:

Sara is a sales consultant, trainer, speaker and podcast host working with leaders and sales teams to unlock the untapped potential in their prospecting and business development efforts. Her platform, Prospecting on Purpose, empowers professionals via her virtual and in-person workshops to enhance their communication skills, approach prospecting creatively, confidently connect with clients, and address business needs rather than simply push products. As the host of the popular podcast "Prospecting on Purpose," Sara provides a valuable platform for discussions on prospecting, sales, business strategies, and mindset, leaving listeners with tangible takeaways and increased confidence.

saramurray.com

Today we will cover:

(05:00) Reframing sales as relationships, empathy, and authority
(07:00) What a sales pipeline really is and why advisors need one
(12:30) Staying in the driver’s seat on discovery calls
(18:30) Presenting proposals without losing control of the narrative
(26:00) The four real reasons clients hesitate to book
(29:00) Asking better questions to uncover what’s really holding clients back
(38:00) A simple follow-up phrase that actually gets responses

Sales Call Roadmap → https://www.tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+184&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call+Roadmap

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Cancellation fees: rude or required? In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain the significance of implementing a cancellation fee to protect your time, effort, and business. They break down when to enforce or waive a fee, how to position it as company policy (not a personal decision), and the systems every travel advisor needs so cancellations don’t turn into unpaid labor. If you’ve ever been burned by last-minute cancellations or clients who don’t respect your time, this episode is your sign to tighten your policies and protect your business. Tune in and then take the conversation further inside the Niche community!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_Notes&utm_campaign=Ep183&utm_content=Niche

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A beautiful website means nothing if it doesn’t make people click, book, or buy. Ingrid Urena of Penguin Designing joins this episode to answer the question: what actually makes a website convert? She walks through the foundational “ingredients” every high-performing website needs: crystal-clear messaging rooted in your audience’s language, strategic site structure that supports SEO and discoverability, and intentional design choices that guide visitors toward action. You’ll hear why clarity beats clever every time, how smart structure boosts both SEO and conversions, and the sneaky copy and design mistakes that quietly send potential clients clicking away. Plus, Ingrid covers the core legal elements every website needs to protect both you and your clients (because “I’ll add that later” is not a strategy). If your site feels more like a digital business card than a sales tool, this episode shows you how to turn it into something that actually converts!

Want even more insights from Ingrid?

Watch the replay of her training inside THE NICHE COMMUNITY, and download the Travel Website Roadmap and an SEO Checklist for Travel Advisors!

About Ingrid Urena:

Ingrid is a brand strategist and Showit expert with 10+ years of experience helping creative founders and coaches build profitable websites. As the founder of Penguin Designing, she blends design psychology with conversion rate optimization to turn digital presences into money-making ecosystems. Her work and teaching have been featured in Showit, Flodesk University, and across industry summits and communities.

instagram.com/penguindesigning

penguindesigning.com

Today we will cover:

(01:00) Meet Ingrid: design expert and ShowIt Design Partner
(03:00) The importance of knowing your target audience
(11:40) How website structure impacts SEO and discoverability
(18:50) Must-have legal pages every website needs
(25:55) Using segmentation to guide visitors through the right journey
(32:35) Balancing beautiful design with effective design
(38:30) What to review monthly, quarterly, and yearly to keep your site converting

Download the FREE Tech Stack Checklist: tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+182&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → tiquehq.com/niche

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP → tiquehq.com/shop

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS → tiquehq.com/programs

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If January has you overwhelmed and considering hiring help, this episode is a must-listen! Jennifer and Robin explain why January is not the right time to bring on employees or independent contractors, how reactive hiring can hurt your business, and what to focus on instead when leads are flooding your inbox. They cover smarter alternatives like outsourcing and project-based support, how to identify workflow breakdowns, tighten client boundaries, and prepare your business for sustainable growth before bringing on a team.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Agency Expansion Academy → tiquehq.com/agency-expansion-academy

Travel Business Launch Lab → tiquehq.com/travel-business-launch-lab

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → tiquehq.com/niche

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP → tiquehq.com/shop

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS → tiquehq.com/programs

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Download the FREE Job Descriptions for Travel Business Roles: tiquehq.com/job-descriptions?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+180&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Job+Descriptions

What if growing a team isn’t about scaling faster, but scaling smarter? In this episode, Jordan Rush and Kim Hebert, who took over Explorateur Travel after Jennifer sold the agency, pull back the curtain on what it really takes to expand a team with intention. They break down how they prepare each new IC cohort, what onboarding looks like behind the scenes, and why a cohort-based model creates stronger consistency, accountability, and retention. You’ll also hear the honest realities of growth, including the time and profit tradeoffs of running a team, how they balance mentorship while still managing their own clients, and how they know when it’s truly the right time to expand again. If you’re considering growing your agency or wondering what it takes to support ICs well, this episode offers a refreshingly honest look at building a mentorship-driven model that lasts!

About Explorateur Travel’s Kim Hebert & Jordan Rush:

Kim Hebert stepped into ownership of Explorateur Travel in 2022, bringing a people-first leadership style shaped by her background in marketing, advertising, and travel design. After joining the agency as a Travel Designer in 2020, she quickly became known for her attention to detail and ability to turn client visions into seamless, highly personal itineraries. A Louisiana native, Kim is driven by connection and collaboration—values rooted in her time with Kappa Delta that now guide both Explorateur’s client experience and internal culture.

Jordan Rush also became co-owner in 2022, inspired by the agency’s mission to create thoughtful, one-of-a-kind travel experiences. With over a decade of experience in hotel sales and event planning, she brings a strong foundation in hospitality, relationship-building, and service excellence. Her Kappa Delta roots continue to shape her leadership, emphasizing community, purpose, and meaningful partnerships that support clients at every stage of their journey.

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Why Jordan and Kim chose a cohort-based model for growing a team
(12:45) What onboarding actually looks like behind the scenes
(22:30) What they look for when selecting new ICs
(30:50) How interviews are structured and what questions they ask
(34:00) The real cost of running a mentorship-based model
(45:50) How Jordan and Kim balance mentoring with client work

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

2025 taught us a lot…and not all of it was comfortable. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin reflect on the lessons that shaped the past year: why growth felt heavier, what constant change actually costs, and how shifting trust and consumer behavior forced a rethink of how businesses operate. They discuss what worked really well, what stopped working, and the hard truths about resilience, revenue, and sustainability that only show up when you’re deep in it. From outsourcing growing pains to decision fatigue and the pressure to always evolve, this conversation is a candid look at what 2025 revealed behind the scenes and how those lessons are shaping a calmer, more boring approach to 2026.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP → tiquehq.com/shop

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS → tiquehq.com/programs

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Download the FREE Sales Call Roadmap: tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+148&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call+Success+Roadmap

This episode challenges one of the most common and costly misconceptions in business: that marketing and sales are the same thing. Anthony Cifelli, Marketing Strategist and Founder of Truevail, explains why confusing these two roles quietly undermines trust, confidence, and conversions. You’ll learn why visibility alone doesn’t lead to bookings, how inconsistent or generic marketing pushes the right clients away, and what actually makes potential clients feel confident enough to say yes. Anthony shares why consistency matters more than clever campaigns, why emotional connection beats promotion, and how staying present over time (not chasing quick wins) is what builds a business people remember. If marketing feels loud but bookings feel quiet, this episode reframes what’s really missing and why fixing it starts with alignment, not more content.

About Anthony Cifelli:

Anthony has always had a passion for marketing and connecting with people, which led him early on to follow his family into the hotel business. Today, he brings nearly 40 years of experience across the hospitality and travel industries. He began his career with Hyatt Hotels before going on to help build the sales team for what was then a little-known airline, Virgin Atlantic Airways. After a decade-long hiatus as a chiropractor, Anthony returned to the travel industry, spending the next ten years on the representation side with Janine Cifelli Representation. Having founded multiple small businesses along the way, he experienced firsthand how overwhelming marketing responsibilities can be. That insight led him to create Truevail - which helps Travel Advisors with their marketing so that they can focus on their clients.

truevailapp.com/affiliates/tique

Today we will cover:

(02:15) Anthony's background in sales and marketing
(05:30) The real difference between marketing and sales explained simply
(12:45) Attracting the right audience vs. attracting everyone
(19:15) Why emotional connection matters more than promotion
(21:15) The long game of marketing and why consistency beats quick wins
(25:45) Common marketing mistakes travel advisors don’t realize they’re making
(31:40) Aligning sales and marketing for sustainable growth

Sleeping Barber episode: The Eight Fundamentals of Effective Marketing

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

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If your Instagram posts look good but your calendar is still wide open, this episode explains why. Marketing is louder than ever, but buyers are savvier, more discerning, and far less impressed by pretty posts alone. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin talk about the uncomfortable truth most business owners avoid: marketing can attract attention, but it doesn’t close the sale. They unpack why high-value clients choose competence over aesthetics, how weak sales confidence leads to scope creep, and why feeling “weird” about sales is quietly costing you revenue. This conversation reframes sales as what it actually is, a confident, consultative process that builds trust, protects your time, and turns warm leads into paying clients. If you’re tired of creating content that performs but doesn’t pay, and you want to stop relying on vibes to grow your business, this episode will change how you think about selling!

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Cruising has quietly changed, and this episode explains why more advisors should be paying attention. Luxury cruise expert Kemi Wells-Conrad, founder of Wells Luxury Travel, returns to share how small-ship and yacht-style cruising delivers the kind of bespoke, high-touch experience many travelers assume only exists on land. Kemi breaks down how to handle the “I hate cruising” objection, why luxury cruises often deliver better value than mass-market sailings, and how to confidently match the right cruise line to the right client. From better ports and longer stays to fewer crowds, elevated dining, and inclusive pricing, this episode shows why luxury cruising is becoming one of the smartest tools in an advisor’s sales strategy. If you want clients stepping off the ship saying, “that was worth every penny,” press play!

About Kemi Wells-Conrad:

In 2014, Kemi joined the travel industry, working as the Director of Sales – Corporate and Leisure at North South Travel, where she oversaw the team, handled all strategic partnerships, sales and marketing for the agency. Six years later, at the start of 2021, Kemi decided to launch her own agency, Wells Luxury Travel, a boutique collective for advisors specializing in four key pillars: adventure, celebration, sustainability and wellness travel. Kemi is a proud member of the Travel + Leisure Advisory Board, is a featured A-Lister in their annual awards and sits on the advisory board for National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions. Kemi previously ran the Young Travel Professionals and then Millennials in Travel Vancouver chapter, as well as sitting on Virtuoso’s Global Member Advisory Board for over 6 years. She has been quoted and featured in a variety of publications, including Travel + Leisure, Robb Report, CNBC and BRIDES.

wellsluxurytravel.com

@kemiwellsconrad

@wellsluxurytravel

Today we will cover:

(02:20) How Kemi fell in love with cruising
(08:15) Selling the value of luxury cruising to hesitant clients
(14:25) Why luxury cruises offer better ports and longer stays
(22:15) Advisor benefits of selling cruises
(28:45) Marketing cruises to non-cruisers
(33:00) Who’s actually booking luxury and expedition cruises now
(36:30) Hosted sailings and advisor education opportunities

Listen to Episode 120: The Real Cost of Running A Travel Business with Kemi Wells-Conrad

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As the new year approaches, Robin and Jennifer discuss the five questions every advisor should ask themselves before January 1st. These questions will help you check in on your work-life balance, the support systems you’ve built, and whether you're creating the opportunities you actually want. Hear why data should guide your next moves (not just your gut), how to spot the trips and clients that truly fuel your income, and where your systems might be costing you time. It’s a practical, feel-good reset for anyone wanting to step into January with more clarity and momentum. Also, be sure to join the Niche community if you’re craving deeper support and resources in 2026!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → tiquehq.com/niche?utm_source=tiquetalks&utm_medium=podcast

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Download the FREE Tech Stack Checklist: tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+154&utm_medium=Podcast+Episode+154&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack

If choosing a task management system feels overwhelming, this episode is for you! Jennifer chats with system strategist Sarah Wills, founder of HeySwillsy and the expert behind Tique’s ClickUp Business Hub. Sarah explains what a task management system actually does for your business, how it differs from a CRM and email marketing platform, and why the right tool can completely transform the way you work. She shares the essential features to look for, and explains why some platforms fall short while others scale effortlessly with your business. You’ll also hear what finally pushed her toward ClickUp, how she helps travel advisors customize their systems, and the surprising ways data tracking can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re drowning in sticky notes, managing a growing team, or trying to keep client work from slipping through the cracks, this episode will help you understand the logic behind your systems so you can work smarter, not harder!

Connect with Sarah Wills:

heyswillsy.com

instagram.com/heyswillsy

Today we will cover:

(01:30) Meet Sarah Wills; how she became a systems expert
(03:45) What a task management system actually does
(08:20) What to look for in a task management platform
(10:25) Trello vs. Clickup
(19:35) How Sarah uses Dubsado and ClickUp together
(24:10) How advisors can see referrals, return clients, and true marketing ROI
(29:15) How to reevaluate your process using time tracking
(38:15) Team management inside ClickUp; onboarding team members or ICs
(47:30) What not to use ClickUp for

Check out the ClickUp Business Hub Template → tiquehq.com/shop/clickup-business-hub-template

Listen to Episode 154: How To Organize And Store Industry Contacts with Kristen Heitman

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Today’s question is one that hits Tique’s inbox at least once a day: Should I change my CRM? Jennifer, Robin, and Ashlyn (Tique’s workflow guru and product manager) break down why the answer is usually not so fast. Before you chase the next shiny tech solution, hear why you should first fully use the features you already have, and how skipping that step can lead to unnecessary costs, messy migrations, and full-blown workflow chaos. Ashlyn walks through what a CRM should be doing for your business, how to evaluate whether it’s actually falling short, and why tightening your processes often solves the problem long before a system switch ever will. You’ll also get a rundown of the five travel-industry CRMs they recommend and how to assess which tool aligns with your business. If the lure of a new platform has been calling your name, this episode is your sign to pause, evaluate, and make moves with intention instead of impulse!

Workflow Implementation → tiquehq.com/workflow-implementation

Connect with Ashlyn → hello@tiquehq.com

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THE 2026 ROADMAP: MASTERING AI FOR GROWTH

Tickets Now Available! → tiquehq.com/ai

Everyone wants the secret sauce to becoming a successful travel advisor…so Robin and Jennifer brought on someone who actually knows. One of the most dynamic voices in the industry, Jenn Lee joins this episode to discuss the common traits that top advisors share. You’ll hear why mindset, confidence, leadership, and resilience matter just as much as destination expertise, and why thinking like a business owner isn’t optional if you want to grow. Jenn also gets into the systems high-performing advisors rely on (hi, CRMs!) and how the right processes can completely transform your workload and profitability. And yes, she goes there: what to do if you love travel but aren’t sure agency ownership is your forever lane. From alternate roles to niche paths, Jenn explains how you can still build a career in travel that aligns with your strengths and brings you joy. Listen now!

About Jenn Lee:

Jenn is a dynamic leader in the travel industry, serving as President and Chief Marketing Officer of both Travel Planners International (TPI) and its sister company, Vacation Planners. With over 30 years of experience building and managing sales teams for Fortune 500 companies including Marriott Vacation Club, Ryland Homes, and Premiere Farnell, Lee brings strategic vision and an entrepreneurial mindset to empowering independent travel advisors. Known for her "let's get it done" culture and passionate advocacy for the travel advisor community, Lee also serves on the board of the Family Travel Association. Based in Maitland, Florida, she is dedicated to elevating the travel planning experience and creating opportunities for travel professionals to thrive both personally and professionally.

linkedin.com/in/jennleelovestravel

Today we will cover:

(02:10) Meet Jenn Lee: one of the most influential voices in the advisor community
(07:40) Shifting your mindset from hobbyist to entrepreneur
(16:15) The core traits of a successful advisor
(32:30) How rediscovering your “why” can realign your entire business
(35:35) Systems, CRMs & running a sellable business
(42:15) Investing in help long before overwhelm hits
(44:50) Signs agency ownership isn’t your lane & what paths exist beyond it
(54:05) Leaving a business isn’t failure; Jennifer’s story of pivoting

Get the FREE Business Launch Checklist!

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Ready to keep clients coming back all year long? This Hot Take dives into one of the most overlooked revenue streams in the industry: hotel bookings. What starts as a story about a friend booking Gleneagles without looping in her travel advisor turns into a massive reminder that your clients do not automatically know to come to you for hotels. And that gap is costing advisors thousands of dollars a year with almost no lift required. From mentioning it on intake calls to promoting it consistently in newsletters and on social media, learn easy ways to bake hotel-only bookings into your process. Also learn how this service smooths out slow seasons, reduces burnout, diversifies your revenue, and strengthens client loyalty without adding hours to your workload. If you want more clients thinking of you for every trip, hit play and learn how to incorporate this profitable, low-lift revenue stream for 2026!

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TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors

Rebecca Guthrie, a tech founder who has navigated some major life pivots, joins this episode to talk about the seasons of life that force you to slow down, reevaluate, and rebuild. She introduces the idea of “unreasonable seasons” and how they are often the catalyst for your next chapter rather than a sign you are falling behind. You will hear what it actually looks like to realign instead of “quit,” how to raise your worth line, how to stop comparison from draining your confidence, and why the relationships around you matter more than you think. Rebecca also breaks down the phases of her Build Anyways framework: moving from self awareness and stillness into redefining your values, setting boundaries, rebuilding momentum, and choosing a life that aligns with who you want to become. If you have been feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads in your life or business, this episode is your reminder that your hardest seasons often point you toward your next direction, and you do not have to stay in the breakdown to move into the rebuild.

About Rebecca Guthrie:

Rebecca Guthrie is a serial entrepreneur and former tech executive who has built multi-million-dollar companies in the real estate technology space. After overcoming life-changing setbacks, including a cancer diagnosis, she turned her experience into purpose by helping high achievers rebuild and realign after major turning points in their lives and careers. Drawing from her background in leadership, strategy, and resilience, Rebecca guides others in creating a new path forward with clarity, courage, and confidence.

instagram.com/rebeguthrie

Today we will cover:

(00:40) Meet Rebecca Guthrie
(01:40) What are “unreasonable seasons”
(08:00) The Build Anyways framework
(14:15) Understanding your worth line
(23:00) Why you shape your own direction
(28:00) How your hardest moments often hold the blueprint for helping others
(34:30) Posting for 180 days straight; authenticity over aesthetics

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JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai

TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors

If you think you can wait until January to set 2026 goals and make business tweaks, think again! This week’s Hot Take breaks down the exact December checklist every advisor should be working through before WAVE season hits and your inbox explodes. From tightening your pricing and contracts to cleaning up your workflows and giving your financials a much-needed audit, Robin and Jennifer walk you through the behind-the-scenes tune ups most advisors skip and regret later. Also, stick around until the end for details on upcoming events that will help you lock in your goals and momentum for the new year! Tune in, take notes, and (if you haven't already) join the Niche community to get the tools, templates, and support that will make 2026 your #BestYearEver.

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This episode is fuel for anyone building a travel business with big goals and even bigger grit. Katie Gibson, founder of KG Travel Co., spills the details on how she went from “considering it a side gig” to surpassing one million dollars in sales in just over a year. From setting boundaries and charging fees to investing in systems that helped her look polished from day one, Katie shares how she built her business so quickly and learned from the messy moments along the way. If you're in your first year (or honestly, your fifth), her story is a powerful reminder that confidence, systems, and belief in your value are the foundation of a scalable business. Katie’s mindset shifts, mistakes, and million-dollar lessons will leave you inspired to level up the way you show up!

About Katie Gibson:

Katie is the founder of KG Travel Co., a boutique travel design firm she launched just 15 months ago after a decade-long career in sales and leadership development. She’s built her business around a deep love of exploring the world and helping others do the same. When she’s not crafting dream itineraries, she’s a proud mom to Sam, 13, and Caroline, 12, and wife to her husband Dan of 18 years. When she’s not designing trips for clients, Katie is either happily at home or off exploring the world—there’s not much in between. Her next adventure? Southern Spain!

kgtravelco.com

@KGTravelco

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Meet Katie: from top MLM leader to launching KG Travel Co.
(04:35) Building a business with intention and hitting one million in sales
(11:25) The early systems and boundaries she put in place
(18:55) Charging planning fees with confidence
(29:00) The client experience that supports the fee
(52:15) Katie’s organic, non-salesy approach to connecting with dream clients
(58:35) Advice for first-year advisors

JOIN THE WAITLIST → tiquehq.com/ai

TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors

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→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←

This week’s Hot Take covers the always spicy topic - planning fees. During a recent presentation for the Travel Institute’s alumni week, someone asked the question: How do you introduce fees to previous clients who’ve never paid one before? This episode touches on that, but the real heart of this conversation is for advisors who are already charging fees and want to elevate the way they talk about them. Jennifer and Robin flip the script on planning fees and unpack what you’re actually promising your clients when you charge one. Because fees aren’t just good for your business model. They’re advantageous to your clients, too! If you’ve been wanting to elevate how you position your fees, this episode will help you articulate the value behind them without over-explaining or apologizing.

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TIQUE x Kha Ly: The AI Masterclass for Travel Advisors

The robots aren’t coming for your job, but the advisors who know how to use them just might! Tique Talks’ most listened-to guest, Kha Ly, is back for another mind-blowing conversation about how the smartest travel advisors are using AI to work faster, stay relevant, and reach new clients without losing their human touch. In this episode, Kha breaks down the five things every advisor should focus on right now to stay competitive: from using AI to refine your voice, to creating content that actually gets discovered, to leveraging your expertise instead of outsourcing your judgment. He explains the mindset shifts, strategies, and small but powerful tweaks that help advisors stand out in an industry where everyone’s looking for shortcuts. If you want to stay visible, get discovered by new clients, and use AI in a way that makes you truly irreplaceable, this conversation is a must-listen!

About Kha Ly:

Kha is a visionary Marketing Technologist who has spent 25 years at the forefront of digital innovation. From crafting Google's early ground-breaking AdWords campaigns to shaping Meta's advertising platform, Kha has been a driving force in digital marketing's evolution. Kha's role is set to revolutionize how travel advisors approach marketing. His expertise will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving landscape, harnessing the power of digital and AI technologies to enhance your reach and effectiveness. Join Kha to unlock the power of AI and position yourself at the cutting edge of travel marketing. Prepare to revolutionize your approach and drive growth in the digital age.

facebook.com/itsallaboutkha

Today we will cover:

(04:55) How AI actually elevates advisors who know how to use it
(11:10) How advisors are ranking on page one of google in hours
(18:10) Why switching to “creator mode” can instantly expand your reach
(33:00) The future of CRMs; automation and AI integration; AI agents
(35:50) How to use AI on FAM trips and site visits
(46:25) Making AI your strategic advantage
(56:50) The power of custom GPTs

→ Mark your calendars for TIQUE’S BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR!

November 24th - December 1st | Get 25% off with code Black Friday

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→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←

Feeling fried, foggy, or like your brain is running 47 tabs at once? You are definitely not the only one! In this week’s Hot Take, Robin and Jen dig into the dark side of productivity culture and why unplugging might actually be the most productive thing you do this month. From social media doomscrolling disguised as “research” to the illusion of rest that still involves your phone, they share how disconnecting can help you rediscover creativity, clarity, and your actual personality. If you have been craving space to think again, this is your reminder that white space is not wasted time. It is where your best ideas begin.

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Your logo, your name, your content…if you don’t protect it, a copycat might steal it. Zara Young, founder of boutique law firm Watson and Young, joins this episode to share what every business owner should know about protecting their brand. You’ll learn the most common IP mistakes travel advisors make, what you actually own in your business, and the simple steps to safeguard your work so you can grow with clarity and confidence. Zara also dives into the wild world of rebrands, cease and desists, and that little ™ symbol that makes your brand look instantly more legit. If you’ve poured your heart (and budget) into building your business, this episode is your legal wake-up call to protect it before someone else does.

About Zara Young:

Zara Young, Esq. brings over eight years of experience in intellectual property law and has supported more than 900 brands globally. She is the co-author of Your Intellectual Property Fortress: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Brand and Business From Copycats, a practical roadmap for founders to defend and elevate their brand assets. Based in New York, Zara works with ambitious female entrepreneurs to protect their brands and build meaningful businesses. She helps clients understand the real-world risks of overlooking brand protection and provides clear, actionable steps such as filing trademarks and copyrights. Zara believes the power of your brand lies not only in what you create, but in how confidently you claim and defend it.

watsonandyoung.com

Today we will cover:

(01:15) Meet Zara; founding her niche in intellectual property law
(06:30) Trademarking vs. copywriting
(13:15) Why small businesses can’t afford to ignore IP protection
(15:45) What trademarking really costs
(21:20) The “first in use” rule
(25:20) Why it’s worth it to hire a legal expert
(29:35) TM vs. R: what’s legal, what’s not, and how to use each correctly
(40:50) Legal precautions specifically for travel advisors
(45:15) AI-generated content; what you can’t legally protect

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

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Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←

This week’s Hot Take is a little different. No industry headlines, no Q&A, just Robin and Jennifer walking the talk. For years, they’ve told you to refine your offers, charge your worth, and simplify your systems… so they did exactly that inside the Niche community. Hear the details on why one-size-fits-all no longer worked, what sparked the new membership tiers, and how they made the tough calls that keep Niche sustainable and seriously elevated. Some loved it, some didn’t, and that’s business, baby!

Hit play for all the details on what’s changing, why it matters, and how this evolution is making Niche even better for everyone, from brand new advisors to the legacy members.

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You’ve nailed your Instagram content and you’re growing your email list, but when was the last time you pitched yourself to the press? Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West, joins this episode to discuss one of the most underrated growth tools for travel advisors - press features. Building visibility, credibility, and authority in a crowded market matters now more than ever. And if you think getting featured in the press is only for big brands and influencers, think again! Mindy shares insider strategies for attracting media attention, avoiding common PR missteps, and cultivating long-term relationships with journalists. From pitching the right story angle to understanding what editors actually look for, this episode is packed with gold for any advisor ready to get their name in print and elevate their brand. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in the media, this conversation will leave you ready to hit “send” on that first pitch!

About Mindy Poder:

Mindy Poder is the Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West and oversees content for the Future Leaders in Travel event. A veteran travel journalist and content strategist, her work has earned top honors from the Society of American Travel Writers, and she was recognized as Travel Journalist of the Year by the North American Travel Journalists Association. She was also named one of Folio: magazine’s “30 Under 30” for her editorial leadership and big-picture content strategy. Through her role at TravelAge West, Mindy is dedicated to empowering travel advisors with the insights and inspiration they need to grow their businesses and better serve their clients.

travelagewest.com

futureleadersintravel.com

Today we will cover:

(02:25) Meet Mindy; her journey from intern to Editor-in-Chief
(06:05) What makes a great introduction and how to stand out in a journalist’s inbox
(11:40) How the editorial process works; BTS of TravelAge West
(21:25) Future Leaders in Travel
(30:10) New ways advisors are monetizing
(32:45) Building PR and media relationships; how to stand out for the right reasons
(39:40) The future of travel journalism
(41:55) The WAVE Awards; categories, deadlines, and how to apply

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Moxie & Fourth - Register Now for Route To Results
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

→ JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY ←

This week’s Hot Take tackles a question from a Niche community member about how to prepare your business for the whirlwind stretch in January and February when travel inquiries surge (aka Wave season). Jennifer and Robin explain how to use the end of the year to reflect, audit, and refine so you enter 2026 clear on who you want to work with, confident in your systems, and ready to handle Wave season at full capacity. They also remind listeners that January and February don't look the same for everyone, and that’s okay! Success in 2026 isn’t about doing more … It's about doing what matters better. From knowing your dream clients to building repeatable systems and staying grounded when the industry gets noisy, this episode will help you enter Wave season with clarity, confidence, and total control!

Resources Mentioned:

Episode 151. Hot Take: Holiday Spending Trends

Episode 159. Hot Take: Commission Reconciliation

Client Communication Templates

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→ Mark your calendar for Rep Rundown - Happening Oct. 29th & 30th!

If you’ve ever walked into a room full of successful peers and thought, “What am I even doing here?”, this episode is for you! Kerry Dyer, Chief Development Officer at Brownell Travel, has built a career leading, mentoring, and inspiring advisors to grow thriving businesses with confidence. After delivering a powerful presentation on imposter syndrome at Virtuoso Travel Week, Jennifer and Robin knew it was essential to bring that conversation to the podcast. In this episode, Kerry unpacks what imposter syndrome really looks like, the most common triggers advisors face, and how to reframe self-doubt before it takes over. From perfectionism and comparison traps to boundaries and self-belief, she shares strategies you can start using today. You’ll walk away with tools to build confidence, celebrate your wins, and finally feel comfortable owning your expertise, because you do belong in the room!

About Kerry Dyer:

What began as a “happy accident” turned into a 30-year career in luxury travel. After earning a BFA in Art History, she joined Maritz Travel, where her passion for sales quickly emerged. She went on to spend 14 years with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, ultimately serving as Director of Leisure Sales for the Americas, followed by a successful tenure as Director of Sales and Marketing at Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta. Now, as Chief Development Officer at Brownell, she leads Marketing, Partners, and Advisor Development, bringing her deep industry expertise and leadership full circle.

brownelltravel.com/hosting/team/kerry-dyer

Today we will cover:

(03:35) Meet Kerry Dyer; her early lessons in confidence
(11:15) What is imposter syndrome, really?
(15:55) How lack of formal credentials, comparison, and entrepreneurship amplify self-doubt in the travel industry
(23:50) The 5 types of imposter syndrome; identifying your patterns and reframing them
(31:45) Progress over perfection; why letting go of control can change everything
(40:35) How community and collaboration silence self-doubt faster than working alone
(44:15) Setting boundaries and showing up intentionally for your clients and family

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

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Have you ever realized you didn’t get paid because you missed one tiny step? This week’s Hot Take question comes from Katherine, who recently discovered that one of her DMCs didn’t send her commission…because she hadn’t invoiced them. (Wait, what?!)

So, should you be sending invoices for every trip? Or only when asked?

Robin and Jennifer break it all down: which suppliers require invoices, how to track commissions, and the one system that’ll save you from chasing payments. Press play and learn how to make sure every dollar you’ve earned actually lands in your bank account!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY - an interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business!

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→ Mark your calendar for Rep Rundown - Happening Oct. 29th & 30th!

Think your business isn’t “sellable”? Think again! Shay Bacani, founder of Centura Financial, joins Robin and Jennifer to discuss what it really means to build a business that can operate (and even sell) without you. She shares how to stop playing small, why profit is the number that actually matters, and how to turn your lifestyle business into a true asset. From knowing your numbers to hiring top-down and documenting everything, Shay makes the intimidating side of money and valuations feel surprisingly doable. Hit play to get your financial wake-up call and start treating your business like the valuable asset it is!

About Shay Bacani:

Shay is the founder of Centure Financial and a Certified Financial Planner who helps entrepreneurs turn lifestyle businesses into true assets. She believes every business owner should understand their numbers and how those numbers drive scalability, sustainability, and long-term valuation. With a passion for education, Shay translates complex financial concepts into actionable strategies that empower her clients to build wealth and make confident decisions. Her approachable yet strategic style has made her a trusted guide for business leaders who want to align day-to-day operations with long-term growth.

centurefinancial.com/meet-founder

Today we will cover:

(03:20) Meet Shay
(05:50) What it means for a business to be “sellable”
(11:45) The financial foundations that make or break your valuation
(24:30) Why business is moving back to community and transparency
(32:00) Hiring top-down; why a fractional C-suite can change everything
(36:25) What metrics to track as you scale to multi-six figures and beyond
(46:45) Understanding valuations and how investors really price your company
(50:40) The inner work of building a business that lasts

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How do you go from “I want to hit $2 million” to actually doing it? This week’s Hot Take comes from Winnie, who asked: “I would love to hear more about setting financial goals for 2026, and specifically how to ask for the referral from past clients in the most polite way. It's one thing to say my gross revenue should be over $2 million, but how do you proactively go after that business?”

Jennifer and Robin break it all down across referrals, financial goals, marketing, and metrics. You’ll learn how to identify your highest-value clients, ask for referrals that don’t feel awkward, and build repeatable systems that turn great service into sustainable growth. They also share why your next revenue leap depends more on conversion rates and client experience than chasing followers, and how SEO, email marketing, and even AI can help you land your next client. If you’re ready to break through your current ceiling and scale smarter in 2026, this one’s a must listen!

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Do group bookings make your head spin? Let’s fix that! Ateet Ahuja, founder of Indian Destination Wedding, joins Jennifer to unpack the difference between group contracts and flex groups, how to choose the right route for your clients, and what it takes to manage large scale destination events with confidence. Ateet shares his journey from corporate life at Dell to planning luxury Indian weddings around the world and why niching down didn’t limit his business, it exploded it. Together, they discuss what to look for in fair attrition and cancellation terms, how to set client expectations, and how to avoid the pitfalls that trip up so many advisors. Tune in and finally feel confident saying, “I’ve got this,” the next time a group inquiry lands in your inbox!

About Ateet Ajuha:

Ateet and his team have been at the forefront of planning culturally diverse destination weddings since the mid-1990s. As a recognized expert in South Asian weddings, he brings a profound understanding of the cultural nuances that define these vibrant and meaningful celebrations. His expertise encompasses every aspect of the event—from traditional cuisine and attire to music and customs—ensuring each wedding is both authentic and memorable. Ateet is also highly skilled in contract negotiation and vendor relations, having built strong partnerships with leading all-inclusive resort brands and top-tier vendors specializing in South Asian weddings.

indiandestinationwedding.com

Today we will cover:

(02:35) Finding your niche and why narrowing your focus can actually scale your business
(05:40) Group contracts vs. flex groups: what’s the real difference?
(13:20) Attrition, cancellation terms, and how to protect your clients
(18:35) The legal side of group contracts; what to watch for
(21:30) Systems, workflows, and the tech stack behind seamless group management
(27:15) Hiring support and scaling your business without losing quality
(32:45) The math behind group attendance and managing client expectations

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In the Niche community, a member recently asked how to prepare for ILTM, and it sparked a bigger conversation: how do you really prepare for trade shows, and which ones are actually worth it? This week’s Hot Take dives into all things trade shows and how to make the most of them. Robin and Jennifer discuss why niche-specific events often bring the best ROI, how ego and confidence both play a role in attending, and why you should align shows with your true business focus. From prep tips like reviewing supplier lists and packing smart, to etiquette advice on punctuality and professionalism, this episode is a must-listen for any advisor gearing up for an industry event.

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Purchase the ClickUp Business Hub Template: an all-in-one digital workspace built specifically for travel advisors to organize and streamline the backend of their business. Watch the product preview HERE!

Have you ever come home from a trade show with a stack of business cards and no idea what to do with them? Kristen Heitman, luxury travel advisor and one of Tique’s OG clients, joins this episode to discuss all things ClickUp, including her thoughts on The ClickUp Business Hub Template. Kristen walks through how she built a central hub for her supplier relationships (complete with commission details, meeting notes, and rep connections) so she can easily find the right contact when she needs them. She also shares how this system goes beyond contacts to track leads, forecast revenue, and even automate testimonial-driven marketing. If you’ve ever wasted time digging through emails or spreadsheets trying to remember who reps that perfect hotel, this episode will show you how to build a streamlined system that saves clicks, keeps you organized, and helps you grow your business with confidence!

About Kristen Heitman:

Kristen is a Luxury Travel Advisor with Steuber Travel Group and is based in Atlanta, Georgia. After spending over a decade as an epidemiologist at the CDC, where her work focused on building surveillance systems for infectious diseases and data analysis, Kristen made the bold decision to leave her government career in August 2023 to pursue luxury travel planning full-time. Her natural curiosity and love of discovery, once applied to solving public health mysteries, now guides her in uncovering the world's most enchanting destinations and exclusive experiences. Kristen specializes in approachable luxury experiences for successful, detail-oriented professionals, crafting bespoke itineraries that feel effortlessly elegant yet thoughtfully curated. Her background has given her an exceptional eye for finding those special, hidden moments that transform a beautiful trip into an unforgettable journey. When she's not designing extraordinary escapes, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, and two Whippets in Atlanta.

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Kristen’s journey from epidemiologist to travel advisor
(06:10) Why advisors need ClickUp; going beyond CRM and itinerary software
(10:15) Tracking leads, referrals, and repeat clients with ClickUp dashboards
(16:45) Using AI and automation to streamline business operations
(22:45) CRM vs. ClickUp; understanding the role of each tool
(28:20) Cybersecurity for advisors; protecting client data, avoiding public Wi-Fi risks, and using safe passwords
(34:50) How to customize ClickUp for travel agencies without getting overwhelmed
(41:20) Building a ClickUp Business Hub; why investing time boosts efficiency, client experience, and profitability

Connect with Sarah at HeySwillsy for Custom ClickUp Setup

Listen to Episode 150: What Every Advisor Needs To Know About Protecting Client Data with Kacie Darden

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The line between serving your clients and sacrificing yourself can get blurry fast. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin dig into a challenge almost every advisor faces: setting boundaries and avoiding burnout. From overstuffed inboxes to client requests at all hours, it’s easy to lose control of your time and energy when you’re trying to grow a business. They share the hard-won lessons and strategies that help advisors protect their sanity, create healthier client relationships, and build a business that actually supports the life they want. Whether you’ve been feeling stretched thin or just want to get ahead of the overwhelm, this conversation will give you the confidence to start drawing the line where it matters most.

Resources Mentioned:

Building Your Business With Boundaries
Profitable Proposals Masterclass
Seven Figure Sales
Agency Expansion Academy
Tique’s Social Media Templates
Tonic’s Canva Templates (use code TIQUESENTME for 15% off your purchase)

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Paige Griffith, small business attorney and founder of The Legal Paige, is back! This time she’s tackling the hot topic of AI in the travel industry and discussing what's legally safe vs. what could flat-out land you in hot water if you’re not careful. You’ll hear how the FTC and U.S. Copyright Office are already cracking down on AI generated content, and the key disclaimers and contract clauses that actually protect your business when AI shows up in proposals, itineraries, or marketing. Paige also shares why ChatGPT contracts are a recipe for disaster, how one careless copy-paste could put client confidentiality at risk, and the ethical line between using AI as an efficiency tool or passing it off as your own expertise. AI isn’t going anywhere, so hit play and make sure it’s helping your business, not putting it at risk.

About Paige Griffith:

Paige is the Founder & CEO of The Legal Paige; Small Business Attorney & Advocate. Paige is a dedicated attorney and entrepreneur, passionately committed to empowering small business owners—especially creatives—with the legal tools and knowledge they need to build sustainable, legitimate, and peace-of-mind businesses. She founded The Legal Paige in 2018 after balancing law school with running a photography business, recognizing firsthand the legal uncertainties creative professionals often face. With more than nine years of legal practice, Paige has built The Legal Paige into a leading legal education platform and contract template shop serving thousands of clients. Paige’s approach combines legal expertise with accessibility. She is known for breaking down complex legal topics into clear, digestible advice through her blog, podcast, YouTube channel, and speaking engagements. She’s deeply invested in helping business owners not just avoid risk, but actually feel confident about their legal choices.

thelegalpaige.com

Today we will cover:

(05:25) Legal red flags: transparency, accuracy, and what the Copyright Office has already ruled
(07:55) FTC guidelines and why advisors need to disclose AI use
(13:10) Confidentiality concerns; why you should never paste client data into AI tools
(20:15) Contracts & agreements; why AI generated contracts are generic, risky, and often unenforceable
(28:20) AI in day-to-day client communications: emails, proposals, and when disclaimers matter
(32:45) Copyright issues with AI generated copy and images
(36:30) How AI is changing the way we think
(44:50) Using AI as a helper vs. charging premium fees for AI generated work
(46:30) How to raise prices ethically while using AI
(52:10) Tiered packages, pick-your-brain sessions, and using AI for entry level offers

Contracts for Travel Advisors: https://thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor?aff=143&utm_source=Podcast+Episode+152&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Legal+Paige+Link

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Consumer gift spending is dropping this holiday season…but travel spending is rising. That means your clients are ready to swap sweaters for plane tickets, and you need to know how to position yourself to capture it. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin share why leading with discounts won’t cut it in today’s economy and how the smartest advisors will win by marketing the feeling of travel (think cozy holiday rituals, aspirational experiences, and stress-free memories clients can instantly picture themselves in). Learn how to position travel as the ultimate gift, reduce client overwhelm with done-for-them holiday planning, and secure more bookings before Cyber Monday hits. Press play and turn this holiday season into your biggest revenue driver yet!

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One hacked email could cost your business six figures (seriously!). Kacie Darden of Blue Pineapple Travel joins this episode to talk about cybersecurity in a way that actually makes sense for advisors. She explains why PCI compliance is a must, why investing in a paid VPN is worth every penny, and how cybersecurity insurance could be the thing that saves your business from a financial nightmare. She also shares tips on building stronger passwords, spotting phishing scams, and putting simple processes in place to protect your clients and your reputation. If the word “cybersecurity” usually makes your eyes glaze over, don’t worry, this conversation will change that. Tune in for relatable advice and easy steps you can put into action right away!

About Kacie Darden:

Kacie is an avid traveler and the passionate owner of her Marietta-based travel agency. With journeys to more than 60 countries across six continents (and Australia next on the list!), her love of exploration fuels everything she does. Whether she’s discovering a brand-new destination or finding fresh perspectives in a familiar place, Kacie brings that same curiosity and expertise to the experiences she curates for her clients. She loves sharing the world with her husband, identical twin boys, and extended family and friends — proving that travel is as much about connection as it is about adventure. With her blend of industry experience, personal passion, and sharp business insight, Kacie transforms travel dreams into memories that last a lifetime.

bluepineappletravel.com

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Meet Kacie: from ecologist to travel agency owner
(05:20) Blue Pineapple Travel’s 2.0 brick-and-mortar office
(08:00) Why cybersecurity matters for every advisor
(15:30) Understanding PCI compliance and VPNs
(21:45) Cybersecurity insurance
(32:00) Creating strong passwords; password manager recommendations
(37:00) How to recognize phishing scams before it’s too late

Download the Sales Call Roadmap

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This week’s Hot Take comes from Niche member Megan, who’s debating a big agency growth move: bring on independent contractors or hire employees? Jennifer and Robin discuss the different aspects of both options starting from clarifying your long-term vision and navigating the legal/financial fine print to tackling the very real emotional side of building a team. You’ll hear strategies for protecting your brand, lightening your workload, and scaling smart (with some bonus insights from Agency Expansion Academy). Tune in to get the clarity you need for making the best decision for your business!

AGENCY EXPANSION ACADEMY - your complete, self-paced blueprint for building a dream team of pros, streamlining your operations, and unlocking the kind of growth that feels effortless and sustainable.

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Previous Episodes Mentioned:

41. What We'd Do Today If We Started Our Travel Business Over (Part 1)

42. What We'd Do Today If We Started Our Travel Business Over (Part 2)

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Sept. 22nd-26th | Get 15% Off!

Boutique hotels may look effortless on the outside, but behind the scenes they run on strategy, teamwork, and a relentless eye for detail. In this episode, Jennifer chats with Candice Berger, Director of Marketing at Voile D’or, who represents two of the industry’s remarkable hidden gems: Maison Hudson in New York and Maison Vi Laroi in Paris. Candice pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to wow guests: from personalizing every stay and safeguarding client confidentiality to the nonstop hustle most people never see. You’ll learn why crystal-clear communication between advisors and hoteliers matters, how honesty sets the tone for unforgettable experiences, and why heartfelt service always beats cookie-cutter luxury. If you’ve ever wanted an insider’s look at how hotels craft stays that turn into stories, this episode has the secrets!

About Candice Berger:

Candice, a Taurus from the French Riviera, is based in Cannes and has spent the past 20 years in luxury hospitality crafting experiences where the smallest detail creates the biggest memory. Guided by her motto, “good is never enough,” she brings both passion and precision to everything she does. A proud mother to her two-and-a-half-year-old son, Andreas, and caretaker of a 14-year-old pug who still rules the house, Candice thrives on obsessing over details, thinking outside the box, and transforming stays into stories that guests take home. Today, she shares how teamwork and a creative mindset shape truly unforgettable moments.

Today we will cover:

(02:15) Candice’s journey Into luxury hospitality
(06:10) The dynamic world of boutique hotels and luxury travel
(08:40) Personalizing guest experiences for lasting memories
(13:55) Why travel advisors are essential partners for hoteliers
(21:45) Redefining VIP service: treating every guest like a VIP
(25:50) Creative approaches to tailored guest stays
(32:55) The hidden labor and “good war” behind flawless hospitality
(37:50) Service recovery: turning challenges into loyalty-building moments
(43:45) Post-stay connections and guest reflections

Download the Sales Call Roadmap

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This week’s Hot Take answers a big question from Niche member Simone: how do you actually build a book of business as a travel advisor? Jennifer and Robin spill their best tips for finding your ideal audience, creating content that grabs attention, and showing up on social media where your potential clients already hang out. You’ll learn why leading with value builds leads, how clear messaging makes your brand unforgettable, and why consistency is your secret weapon. They also give their thoughts on creating smart partnerships, learning from others in the industry, and the referral power of happy clients. If you’ve been wondering how to turn conversations into clients and momentum into real growth, this Hot Take is packed with ideas you’ll want to steal!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY - an interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business!

Previous Episodes Mentioned:

130. How To Convert Your Social Media Followers To Loyal Clients with Katie Brown

87. How Your Brand Impacts Client Quality with Gray Ellender

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Get ready for a fun and inspiring conversation with Lauren Quirk, Founder of Travel With Character®! Lauren is proof that theme park travel can be just as chic, seamless, and story-driven as a luxury FIT trip. From hand-picking resorts and tickets to crafting VIP tours and personalized itineraries, she and her team sprinkle creativity, precision, and a little magic into every detail. With her bubbly personality and entertainment background, Lauren shares how she went from Broadway stages to building a thriving agency. She talks about why she recently transitioned from independent contractors to an employee model, why charging planning fees is a must, and how she blends personality-packed social media with polished systems to create unforgettable client experiences. Ready to see theme park travel in a whole new light? This episode is packed with ideas, laughs, and a dose of Lauren’s contagious enthusiasm.

About Lauren Quirk:

Lauren is the Founder of Travel With Character®, a backstage production team for designing luxury family vacations. Over the past six years she has assembled a small team of creative women who guide today's discerning travelers who value personalized and attentive service over DIY booking methods. Lauren's education and background are in the performing arts, with a history on the off-Broadway stages of New York, and LA productions like "Grease Live! On Fox", and Comedy Central sketches. She now translates this creativity and storytelling into her travel business, crafting unique experiences for every client, helping them to embrace their own "main character energy." Lauren's innovative approach to travel industry marketing has not gone unnoticed. She has been a Travel Weekly Gold Magellan award recipient and a finalist in TravelAge West's Trendsetter Awards, celebrating her social media content. Her unique marketing signature includes creating comedic musical pieces related to travel, engaging audiences and inviting them into a world of exploration and enjoyment.

@travelwithcharacter

travelwithcharacter.com

Today we will cover:

(03:00) The story behind Travel With Character® and Lauren’s journey from Broadway to travel
(06:45) Why Lauren transitioned from independent contractors to employees for stronger brand consistency
(12:20) Best tools and software for planning Disney and theme park vacations
(18:45) Charging planning fees and demonstrating the value of professional expertise
(23:35) Offering concierge-level Disney services including Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
(28:35) Streamlining workflows to deliver a polished and seamless client experience
(31:45) How to collect client testimonials and Google reviews that build trust
(41:05) Expanding from theme park travel to international destinations
(44:50) Creating engaging social media content with musical parodies for marketing
(47:15) Lauren’s top advice for travel advisors: confidence, systems, and preparation

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“Luxury” has officially become the most overused word in travel, and in this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer are calling it out. They break down the Virtuoso 2025 Luxe Report, which reveals that travelers are taking fewer trips but spending more on immersive, meaningful experiences. They get candid about the pressure on advisors to chase ultra-high-ticket trips and why real success is not defined by a $100K price tag. They share strategies for carving out your own niche, whether that means high volume all-inclusives that keep clients coming back or bespoke itineraries that wow even the pickiest traveler. Plus, they give tips for networking with high-net-worth clients, positioning yourself as the go-to expert, and staying ready for the curveballs that come with serving luxury travelers. If you are tired of the “luxury” buzzword or struggling to stand out in a sea of sameness, this episode is your must listen!

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Listen to Episode 02: How We Graduated Our Clients & Increased Our Average Ticket Sales

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Behind every thriving travel advisor is a mentor who believed in them first. In this episode, Rebecca Alessia, owner of Wonderology Luxury Travel Experiences and a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist for 2023 and 2024, joins Jennifer to talk all things mentorship. Rebecca shares how her own mentors helped shape her success, why she’s passionate about paying it forward, and what makes mentorship so valuable in today’s fast-growing travel industry.

You’ll hear her take on the difference between mentorship and paid coaching, how fresh perspectives from new advisors keep the industry evolving, and why building a collaborative, supportive community benefits everyone. This conversation is full of tips, inspiration, and encouragement to help you step into the role of mentor and guide the next wave of advisors.

About Rebecca Alesia:

Rebecca’s earliest memories of travel include gliding through Venice on a gondola and savoring gelato by the Trevi Fountain, sparking a passion that carried her to five continents before her 21st birthday. From trekking Jordan’s deserts by camel to encountering gorillas in Rwanda, she’s found wonder and connection in every corner of the globe. Together with her husband, Sal, she’s made travel a family priority, raising their son Charlie with a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and shared adventures. A former attorney and current member of the Oyster Bay Zoning Board, Rebecca brings that same advocacy and precision to her work as founder of Wanderology, a boutique agency recognized by Condé Nast Traveler and SmartFlyer for excellence in luxury travel design. Based on Long Island’s North Shore, she balances her career with yoga, crossword puzzles, and life with Sal, Charlie, and their three mischievous dogs.

wanderology.com

Today we will cover:

(01:40) Rebecca’s journey from lawyer to travel advisor
(03:45) Why mentorship matters
(10:45) Navigating fees, valuing your time, and setting clear expectations
(18:20) Building meaningful mentorship relationships
(21:45) Finding mentorship opportunities in your community
(23:45) Why new talent keeps the industry innovative and energized
(28:20) Mentorship vs. coaching
(33:40) Protecting your time while still making an impact
(36:35) How mentors and mentees both grow from the relationship

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Welcome to the new “Hot Take” series! Each Friday, Jennifer and Robin will bring you timely, bite-sized conversations designed to give travel advisors a little more insight, clarity, and connection heading into the weekend. No fluff, no filler, just real-time reactions to what’s happening in the industry and what their community needs most.

In this kickoff episode, they answer a question from Leonora, a luxury travel advisor looking to grow her social media reach without overspending. They share smarter, more sustainable strategies, like using turnkey tools to create a polished digital presence and repurposing high-quality content to boost SEO. They also recommend leveraging PR opportunities through articles, podcasts, and media features to expand reach without overspending. The episode wraps up with a fun invitation for listeners to submit their own questions and join the conversation!

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What does it really mean to advocate for the destinations you send clients to? Dr. Paige Viren, an accomplished leader in sustainable tourism, shares why sustainability goes far beyond protecting the environment. From cultural preservation and economic equity to social responsibility and overtourism, she breaks down the many layers of sustainability and how they directly impact travelers and the communities they visit. Learn how sustainable choices don’t have to negatively impact or overcomplicate itineraries, and how clearly expressing your commitment to sustainability can actually help you attract like-minded clients. Plus, Dr. Viren shares her thoughts on responsible tipping, supporting locals, and engaging authentically with communities. This conversation will inspire you to think bigger about your role as a sustainability advocate and empower you to create more meaningful travel experiences for your clients!

About Dr. Paige Viren:

Dr. Paige P. Viren serves as the Executive Director of the Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management Program in the College of Business at California State University, Monterey Bay. With over 16 years of experience in tourism research, Dr. Viren’s expertise spans consumer behavior, adventure travel, and sustainable community-based tourism. Her contributions to the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) helped shape the definition of adventure travel, and she has collaborated with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to develop global climate action strategies in tourism.

pviren@csumb.edu

Resources:

gstc.org

travelunity.org

lnt.org/

Today we will cover:

(02:15) Meet Dr. Paige Viren; from travel agent to sustainable tourism leader
(06:45) What sustainability really means in travel
(10:20) How to address and avoid overtourism
(15:45) The travel advisor’s role in shaping sustainable experiences
(21:50) Animal tourism and making ethical choices
(23:35) Local sustainability practices that make a real impact
(29:45) Choosing intentional gifts and souvenirs that support locals
(34:15) Strategies and resources for advisors; GSTC and Travel Unity
(36:25) Responsible tipping and supporting local economies

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Whether it’s for maternity leave, a medical emergency, or just a much-needed reset, taking a break from your business can feel overwhelming. In this highly requested episode, Robin and Jennifer share strategies to help you step away without losing momentum! They talk about how to prepare for both planned and unexpected absences, from building detailed timelines and communicating with clients early, to creating emergency plans and documenting your processes. You’ll learn why an abundance mindset is key, how to re-enter your business smoothly, and ways to make sure your finances can handle time away. Whether you’re facing a big life change or simply want the peace of mind that comes with being prepared, this conversation will help you put a leave plan in place that keeps your business strong no matter what life throws your way!

Download the SOP Template & Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/sop?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=podcast+traffic

Today we will cover:

(02:10) The reality of stepping away from your business
(04:20) How to keep a professional reputation and client trust during absences
(08:15) Common life events that require time away and how to navigate them
(14:40) Preparing for an extended leave; building timelines, communicating with clients, and delegating tasks
(28:05) How to create an emergency plan; creating systems and processes
(32:35) Re-entering the business and reassessing priorities
(38:10) How preparation strengthens your business and builds long-term resilience
(40:40) Bloopers

Also mentioned in the episode:

Episode 03. Preparing To Go OOO? Do These Things First
Episode 52. How To Disaster-Proof Your Business with Matt Maniscalco

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Ever wondered what really goes into running a high-performing host agency? Keith Walden, founder of Departure Lounge, shares how he built a values-driven agency that empowers over 320 advisors across 13 countries and why mentorship, collaboration, and kindness are non-negotiables. With nearly four decades of experience, Keith reveals the secrets behind Departure Lounge’s explosive growth, what he looks for in advisors and partners, and how he’s blending innovation with human connection to build a business on track to exceed $500 million in annual sales.

About Keith Waldon:

A native Texan, Keith Waldon began his career in luxury travel while still in college in Dallas as an intern for Rosewood Hotels, where he continued his career as a marketing manager after graduating from Southern Methodist University. Keith later spent 16 years as a senior executive for the international luxury travel network Virtuoso, where creating the Virtuoso brand and elevating the awareness of travel advisors were among his accomplishments. With 27 years in the luxury travel industry, Keith launched Departure Lounge in 2013, first as a specialty retail storefront travel agency. Since then, the agency has organically grown into an international luxury host travel agency with more than 320 travel advisors reaching more than $340 million in annual sales in 2024. Keith was voted Most Innovative Travel Advisor by the Virtuoso network in 2019. He is honored to be featured on Travel+Leisure Magazine’s A-List of travel experts as a family and Italy travel specialist, and he serves on the magazine’s Advisory Board. He also serves on advisory boards for Marriott luxury brands, Hilton luxury brands, IHG luxury brands, Corinthia Hotels, Lindblad Expeditions, Truevail and the British Virgin Islands. Keith now calls northwest Tuscany home, where he is renovating an old estate built between 1550 and 1700.

kwaldon@departurelounge.com

DepartureLounge.com

Download the Launch Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/launch?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=podcast+traffic

Today we will cover:

(02:00) Keith’s journey from college internship to luxury travel leader
(04:30) The birth of Departure Lounge and the innovative model behind its success
(14:20) Keith’s approach to mentorship, community building, and advisor empowerment
(22:30) How to grow a host agency without losing the human touch
(30:15) How transparency and trust drive long-term success
(36:20) How Departure Lounge structures earnings and supports advisor success
(44:35) Why education and mentorship are the core business strategies
(51:45) Keith’s board involvement; advocating for advisors on a global level

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If you have ever felt like you’re the glue holding your business together or that stepping away for even a day would send everything into chaos, this conversation is a must listen! Jennifer and Robin are joined by seasoned business strategist, Melissa Franks, to unpack one of the most important and often overlooked pieces of sustainable growth: operational strategy. Melissa has even served as their own Fractional COO, guiding them through tough decisions and intentional enhancements within Tique. In this episode, she shares how to spot the red flags that your business is stuck in survival mode, the difference between running your business and being run by it, and how to build a business that scales without sacrificing your sanity. Plus, you’ll walk away with tools you can implement today to set yourself up for long term growth!

About Melissa Franks:

Melissa is a seasoned business strategist, Fractional COO, podcast host and speaker, and transformation leader with a track record of scaling businesses and driving operational excellence with a people-first approach that mobilizes teams for unprecedented results. A former Fortune 500 executive and OnCon Icon “Top 100 COO” Winner (2022-2024), she has led billion-dollar IT transformations, M&A initiatives, and revenue growth strategies, blending corporate expertise with small business agility. As the founder of On Call COO, she empowers female entrepreneurs by optimizing operations and increasing profitability with her knack for helping business owners break through growth plateaus, implement scalable strategies, and build profitable, sustainable companies. Passionate about women in leadership and business innovation, Melissa is also an advocate for high-performing women, helping them design lives they love while achieving balance and success. She is a strong voice for domestic violence awareness and family court reform. When not strategizing, she enjoys running, traveling, and cheering on her three sons at their sporting events.

melissafranks.com

instagram.com/melissa_franks

Download the SOP Template & Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/sop?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=podcast+traffic

Today we will cover:

(02:10) Melissa’s background; from corporate to Fractional COO
(04:30) Why operational strategy is the secret to sustainable growth
(13:35) The mindset shift from scrappy to strategic
(20:40) The four pillars every business needs to define
(28:20) How to find out where your time and energy is really going
(33:50) Separating your personal identity from your business
(39:30) People, process, and tech; the trifecta of operational success
(47:50) Building a business that works for you

Also mentioned in the episode:

ClickUp Business Hub Template
Agency Expansion Academy

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FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Check out Moxie & Fourth: Email marketing for travel advisors
Stay cool this summer with Cozy Earth! Cozy Days Discount: Get 40% off with code COZYTIQUE from August 05-12

This episode wraps up the Client Experience Summer Series with a deep dive into in-destination management and post travel follow-up. Robin and Jennifer share strategies for setting healthy boundaries with clients while they're traveling, so you can deliver high-touch service without feeling glued to your phone. From crafting a powerful pre-travel email to offering in-destination communication as a premium service, you'll hear how to create a smooth client experience that doesn't sacrifice your sanity. They also talk through the best ways to gather feedback post-trip, including how to time your requests for testimonials and turn client praise into content that builds trust and attracts new business.

Download the Tech Stack Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+138&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack

Today we will cover:

(02:10) What to include in your final email
(05:45) Setting client expectations and communication
(10:10) Handling high-risk trips and pre-departure calls
(14:25) In-destination communication strategies
(22:45) When and how to offer premium services and upgrades
(28:40) Why the timing of your feedback request matters
(32:20) How to ask for a testimonial
(36:55) Ways to repurpose client feedback

Also mentioned in the episode:

Seven Figure Sales
Episode 91. What You Wish You'd Always Known About Booking Airfare with Lary Neron
ClickUp Business Hub Template

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Check out Moxie & Fourth: Email marketing for travel advisors
Stay cool this summer with Cozy Earth! Cozy Days Discount: Get 40% off with code COZYTIQUE from July 29-August 05

One of the most overlooked parts of the client experience actually happens after they say yes to the proposal. In this episode, Robin and Jennifer break down what to do the moment a client gives the green light. From confirming bookings and managing approvals to protecting your business and setting up a strong nurture sequence, they share how to create a smooth, streamlined journey all the way to departure day. You’ll hear how they built a system that blends automation with personalization, so clients feel genuinely cared for without you being glued to your inbox. They also discuss must-dos like travel insurance education, real-time communication with DMCs, and the importance of structured workflows and documentation. Whether you're refining your backend systems or elevating your client touchpoints, this episode is packed with strategies to keep clients informed, excited, and ready to book with you again!

Download the 5 Plug-And-Play Email Templates: https://www.tiquehq.com/emails?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+137&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=5+Free+Emails

Today we will cover:

(01:55) The client approval process: balancing flexibility with urgency
(12:40) Travel insurance: how to educate and inform your clients
(21:00) Best practices for secure deposits
(27:30) What to include in a strong booking confirmation email
(32:20) Managing client approvals and setting clear expectations
(36:40) Creating structured workflows for smoother operations
(46:30) Final thoughts on keeping clients happy from “yes” to takeoff

Also mentioned in the episode:

Client Communication Templates
Episode 53. Demystifying Selling Travel Insurance with Susan Barbanel
Episode 99. Creating Invoices That Protect Your Business

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

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Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:

Check out Moxie & Fourth: Email marketing for travel advisors
Stay cool this summer with Cozy Earth! Cozy Days Discount: Get 40% off with code COZYTIQUE from July 22-29

Creating a travel proposal is more than plugging numbers into a spreadsheet. It’s about telling a story your client wants to step into. In this episode, Jennifer and Robin share how to create proposals that feel like an experience from start to finish. Learn how to ask the right intake questions, tailor your recommendations with confidence, and choose suppliers that align with your client’s vibe while streamlining your backend workflow. You’ll also hear how to use itinerary builders and Loom walkthroughs to add a personal touch, plus tips for setting clear expectations, managing revisions, and keeping timelines on track without burning out. If you're ready to turn your proposals into seamless, sellable experiences, this episode is your behind-the-scenes blueprint!

Download the free Client Onboarding Guide: http://tiquehq.com/client-onboarding?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+136&utm_medium=Onboarding+PDF&utm_campaign=Client+Onboarding+Guide+Freebie

Today we will cover:

(01:50) Choosing suppliers that support both the client and your workflow
(08:10) Understanding client priorities; budget vs. experience
(14:40) Auditing and presenting the proposal
(21:20) How to present the proposal with visuals and itinerary tools
(28:45) Using Loom walkthroughs for a personalized touch
(38:40) Setting timelines and managing client expectations
(40:50) Following up, minimizing revisions, and knowing when to walk away

Also mentioned in the episode:

Episode 101: When And How To Piece An FIT Together On Your Own with Beth Pelleteri
Episode 123: How To Get A Client To Commit To A Budget with Courtney Gardner
Client Communication Templates

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Your intake call isn’t just a casual chat. It’s your power move. In this episode, Jennifer and Robin share why this second step in your client experience journey can make or break your ability to close the sale. They explain how to lead with confidence, ask thoughtful questions that uncover what your clients really want, and position yourself as the expert from the very first conversation. You’ll also learn how to use tech tools like AI to stay fully present while capturing key details without missing a beat. Plus, hear how creating a clear structure for your call helps set expectations, build trust, and make it easier to introduce your planning fee with ease. If you’re ready to turn more inquiries into booked clients, this episode is a must-listen!

Download the free Intake Call Guide: https://www.tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+135&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call

Today we will cover:

(01:40) Why the intake call matters is the key to closing the sale
(09:30) How to prepare with confidence and establish your authority
(11:30) Objection handling tips
(18:20) Using AI for client interactions and digital note-taking
(26:20) Building strong client relationships from the first call
(28:45) How to structure an effective intake call and lead with confidence
(36:40) How to introduce your planning fee without awkwardness
(40:05) Collaborating with suppliers to enhance your destination knowledge

Also mentioned in the episode:

Seven Figure Sales
Episode 123: How To Get A Client To Commit To A Budget with Courtney Gardner

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

In the kickoff episode of this year’s summer series, Robin and Jennifer take a closer look at the inquiry phase, the first step in the client journey and a powerful opportunity to set the tone for a high touch, personalized experience. Rather than viewing the inquiry form as just a lead filter, they reframe it as the beginning of the onboarding process. This attracts dream clients, sets expectations, and lays the foundation for lasting relationships! Learn how to design strategic inquiry forms that are both efficient and engaging, tailored to the unique preferences of different client types. From incorporating creative, emotion driven questions to using interactive tools like quizzes, this episode offers fresh ideas for turning a routine form into a meaningful brand touchpoint. Hit play and get inspired to elevate your client experience starting from the very first interaction!

Today we will cover:

(02:50) Understanding client experience vs. service
(04:50) Rethinking the inquiry phase; creating inquiry forms
(09:10) Tailoring forms to fit your audience
(12:55) Adding personality and creativity to your questions
(21:45) Setting expectations and creating boundaries early
(35:00) Using quizzes and interactive tools to vet for fit

Mentioned in the episode:

Episode 91: What You Wish You'd Always Known About Booking Airfare with Lary Neron
Episode 112: How to Create Interactive Content for Lead Generation with Josh Haynam

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

If your business is leaving you drained, this episode might be the reset you need! Lizzie Alex, Senior Travel Advisor and Director of the D.A. Luxury Travel team, shares how she’s helped build a business that works for her, not the other way around. She breaks down the systems, tools, and mindset shifts that have helped her create structure, avoid burnout, and deliver high-level service without being constantly “on.” From using platforms like Asana and TripSuite to outsourcing energy-draining tasks, Lizzie shows how efficiency and balance can work hand in hand. She also shares how setting clear boundaries (from office hours to package scope) not only protects your time but enhances the client experience. Plus, you’ll hear her best tips for rolling out new processes and fees with confidence and ease. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like your business is running you, this episode is the permission slip you need to build a business that honors your life, not just your to-do list!

Connect with Lizzie Alex:

With a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences, Lizzie Alex has made her mark in the world of luxury travel and event planning. As the Senior Travel Advisor and Director of the esteemed D.A. Luxury Travel team, Lizzie curates personalized and immersive journeys that push the boundaries of traditional travel. By understanding each client's unique preferences, Lizzie weaves together seamless itineraries that unlock access to hidden gems and "non-googleable" experiences. As a distinguished member of the 1000 Club, an elite collective of the world's most influential travel advisors, and most recently named as one of Conde Nast Traveler 2025 Top Travel Specialists, Lizzie continues to redefine the art of travel.

daluxurytravel.com

instagram.com/lizzieealexx

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Meet Lizzie and the mission behind D.A. Luxury Travel
(05:45) Building a business that works for you
(08:30) Setting boundaries and how to communicate them to clients
(18:50) How Lizzie’s team documents internal processes for smoother operations
(21:55) Why outsourcing is an investment, not an expense
(29:05) Offering tiered services and protecting your time through clear packages
(35:00) Educating clients about new processes and changes
(37:45) Advice for building a business that supports your life

→ CLIENT ONBOARDING CHECKLIST: https://www.tiquehq.com/client-onboarding?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+133&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Client+Onboarding

A streamlined, step-by-step process to wow your clients from the moment they inquire until they return home raving about your expertise!

Also mentioned in the episode:

Episode 119: How To Get The Most Out Of AI with Kha Ly
Building Your Business With Boundaries Course
Client Communication Templates

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

What does it really take to build a high-performing team in the travel industry? Sarah Fazendin, founder of Videre Travel, spills it all. From solo advisor to visionary team leader, she shares the exact strategies that helped her scale with intention without sacrificing quality or cohesion. In this episode, you’ll learn how Sarah sets clear expectations, builds a strong company culture, and hires for more than just experience. She breaks down her onboarding process, her approach to outsourcing backend tasks, and how she keeps her team focused on what they do best: creating unforgettable travel experiences. You’ll also hear how she transitioned her advisors under one brand, fosters camaraderie, and screens for the right fit as she continues to grow. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at building a team that’s aligned, empowered, and built to last!

Connect with Sarah Fazendin:

Sarah founded Videre Travel in 2015 with a bold vision: to transform travel into a collection of life's most extraordinary moments. Today, she leads a powerhouse team of luxury travel specialists and a global network of elite partners, all dedicated to crafting seamless, one-of-a-kind journeys for discerning travelers. Before launching Videre Travel, Sarah spent nearly two decades at the forefront of luxury travel—curating high-end African safaris, collaborating with the continent’s top camps and lodges, and pioneering groundbreaking wildlife experiences that redefined the meaning of luxury adventure. Her expertise has earned her regular features in leading international media, including NPR's Marketplace and Bloomberg. Since 2020, she has been recognized annually as a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler, a testament to her influence in the world of luxury travel.

videretravel.com

Today we will cover:

(02:15) Sarah’s journey from solo advisor to team leader
(06:50) Hiring during the pandemic: why experience mattered
(10:40) What Sarah looks for when hiring new team members
(16:00) Hiring independent contractors vs. W2 employees
(24:05) Identifying red flags in interviews
(29:25) How Sarah fosters a strong, unified company culture
(34:05) Outsourcing backend tasks; onboarding processes
(47:45) Shifting your focus from clients to your team

→ PLUG-AND-PLAY JOB DESCRIPTIONS: http://tiquehq.com/job-descriptions?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+132&utm_medium=Job+Description+PDF&utm_campaign=4+Plug+%26+Play+Job+Descriptions+Download

Grab these job descriptions, tweak them to fit your business, and start building a team that lets you step into your actual CEO role!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Stephanie Malakie, founder of Empress Travel Club, discusses a business model that’s gaining serious traction in the luxury travel world: memberships! The same concept behind your favorite wine club or go-to subscription service is now helping travel advisors lock in dream clients and keep them for the long haul. Stephanie shares why today’s ultra-wealthy travelers are craving more than just beautiful vacations. They’re looking for trusted partners who get them, know their preferences before they say a word, and can pull off flawless, one-of-a-kind experiences all year long. You’ll hear the magic behind her high-touch approach, how she structures her membership model without overcommitting, and how to grow your client base through authentic relationships and high-value referrals. If you’re curious about adding more exclusivity, ease, and long-game strategy to your business, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with Stephanie Malakie:

Growing up on the west coast of Canada with a family who loved to travel, Stephanie developed an appreciation for international destinations from a young age. Her early adventures to places like Egypt, Europe, Central America, and Asia ignited her passion for exploring the world. After completing her degree in Business Management from the University of British Columbia in Canada and the University of Melbourne in Australia, Stephanie moved to Hawaii. There, she joined a management program at Four Seasons Resorts, working across various operational hotel management roles. She eventually managed a VIP client program for years before transitioning to a luxury travel agency and concierge firm. After gaining further experience in the industry, Stephanie founded Empress - a company catering to discerning clients looking for seamless, unique and luxurious travel experiences across the globe. She is based in Kona, Hawaii leading a team that spans from Hawaii to Portugal, allowing Empress to provide 24 hour client coverage.

empresstravelclub.com

Today we will cover:

(02:55) Stephanie’s background; building Empress Travel Club
(08:10) The psychology behind membership models
(14:35) Why luxury clients are drawn to membership models
(22:30) Structuring a membership model; pricing and services
(32:40) Navigating the points game
(40:00) Project management systems and tools; building a strong team
(47:45) Handling high-stakes situations
(53:40) Tips for positioning yourself in front of ultra-high-net-worth clients

SOP TEMPLATE & CHECKLIST: http://tiquehq.com/sop?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+131&utm_medium=SOP+PDF&utm_campaign=SOP+Checklist+Freebie

Consider this your secret weapon for creating clear, step-by-step processes that eliminate guesswork, save time, and make delegation effortless.

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

@TiqueHQ

Followers are great, but clients pay the bills! Katie Brown, founder of Hey Party People and a top-performing agent at Travelmation, tackles a question so many travel advisors and business owners wrestle with: How do you actually turn followers into clients? In this episode, Katie shares how she went from joining the travel industry to fund her son’s adoption to building a $7M business in just five years. She dives into the strategies behind her success like using personal storytelling, authentic branding, and strategic content to grow an engaged Instagram audience of over 50,000. You’ll hear how she blends lifestyle and travel, why showing up as yourself is a business superpower, and how short-form video helps her turn online visibility into real sales. Whether you’re a travel advisor or online business owner looking to grow your audience and your revenue, Katie’s insights will help you ditch the algorithm obsession and start building trust that actually converts!

Connect with Katie Brown:

heypartypeople.travel

Instagram: @itskatiejobro

Today we will cover:

(02:35) Katie’s journey into the travel industry
(06:25) Why personal storytelling is her secret weapon for connection
(12:05) Instagram vs. Facebook: how she tailors content for each platform
(20:15) Using Facebook groups to connect with potential clients
(27:10) Engaging different audiences through relatable, everyday content
(34:00) Creating content that connects: hooks, videos, and authentic value
(44:40) Showing up as yourself and not hiding behind the business

TECH STACK CHECKLIST: http://tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+130&utm_medium=Tech+stack+PDF&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack+Freebie

Download the foolproof guide to the only tools you need to streamline your workflow, cut your admin time in half, and run your business like a well-oiled machine.

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

@TiqueHQ

Ever feel like your business can’t grow unless you’re in control of everything? Think again! Lindsey Epperly, Founder and Chairwoman of Jetset World Travel, shares how stepping back can actually unlock your next level of success and why letting go is a power move, not a setback. From starting in the travel industry at 19 to building a multimillion dollar company and eventually stepping down as CEO, Lindsey’s journey is full of lessons on growth, leadership, and evolution. She dives into the mindset shifts required to scale, including recognizing when fresh leadership is needed and how to navigate imposter syndrome as you transition from founder to visionary. If you’re growing, pivoting, or reevaluating your role, this conversation is your reminder that sometimes the smartest move is stepping back so your business can leap forward.

Connect with Lindsey Epperly:

jetsetworldtravel.com

Who Made You the Boss?

o-nr.org

Today we will cover:

(03:50) Lindsey’s journey from teen travel advisor to entrepreneur
(11:25) The mindset shift needed when going from solo operator to team leader
(15:00) The power of mentorship and defining your owner’s intent
(19:30) How Lindsey acquired Jetset World Travel
(22:20) Finding inspiration in your industry and building a network
(29:45) Navigating Imposter syndrome during major transitions
(39:30) What it really means to be a CEO
(44:35) Stepping away from the CEO role and embracing new opportunities

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

What do construction sites and luxury vacations have in common? A lot more than you’d think! This episode explores the parallels between project management and travel advising with Curated by Cara founder and Travel + Leisure Rising Star, Cara Donleavy. Cara shares how her background managing multi-million dollar construction sites laid the foundation for her booming luxury travel business. From timelines and budgeting to risk management and client communication, she brings a project-based mindset to every itinerary she creates, ensuring each trip runs as seamlessly behind the scenes as it feels to her clients. Hear how she transitioned from part-time to full-time advisor, the systems and tools that keep her business running smoothly, and how she approaches budgeting, boundaries, and scaling with intention. Press play to learn why every trip deserves a project plan, and how that mindset can take your business to the next level!

About Cara Donleavy:

Cara is the founder and proud owner of Curated By Cara, a luxury travel company specializing in bespoke itinerary design. Since launching her business in 2022, she has been dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences tailored to each traveler’s unique style and preferences. Based in Boston, MA, Cara works with families, couples, and groups to curate dream vacations that are seamless, inspiring, and stress-free. At Curated By Cara, the mission is simple: take the stress out of travel planning and replace it with pure excitement. The team handles all the details—research, booking, and beyond—specializing in luxury accommodations and thoughtfully curated experiences you won’t find just anywhere.

curatedbycaratravel.com

@curatedbycaratravel

Today we will cover:

(04:30) How project management laid the groundwork for a travel business
(07:20) Applying timelines, budgets, and structure to luxury itineraries
(19:40) Risk management in travel; planning for the unexpected
(21:15) Cara’s client communication process
(28:25) Handling client pushback and setting expectations
(33:50) Attracting and working with high-profile clients
(36:10) Implementing boundaries
(40:25) Recommended tools: CRMs, branding, and automation that support growth
(42:45) Growing your team and building a scalable business
(46:40) Balancing creativity and processes

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Sun & Sand Client Communication Templates: Your go-to workflow for smooth, stress-free beach and all-inclusive bookings.

Ever feel like you’re trying to be everything to everyone? In this episode, Lori Gold from Explore More Mexico explains why niching down might just be the best thing you can do for your travel business. Lori’s story starts with a free trip to Mexico and ends with her building a thriving, passion-fueled career as a Riviera Maya expert. She shares how focusing on one destination has made her work easier, more profitable, and way more fulfilling. Learn about the power of firsthand experience, how to market yourself as a true specialist, and why simplifying your services can actually help you stand out and serve your clients better. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth picking a lane and going all in, this is your sign! Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how specialization can take your travel business to the next level (with a lot less stress along the way).

About Lori Gold:

Lori has spent the past 16 years planning travel for her clients, with over 8 of those years living in the Mexican Caribbean. Her deep-rooted passion for the region has naturally evolved into a commitment to education—sharing her knowledge with fellow travel advisors to help them better understand and sell this destination with confidence. She spends her time exploring every corner of the Mexican Caribbean, from hidden gems to well-known resorts, participating in tours, and getting to know the destination inside and out. Through this hands-on experience, Lori has developed a suite of accessible resources and engaging classes designed specifically for travel advisors. She knows that a well-informed advisor has the power to elevate a client’s experience—and she’s on a mission to make that possible for as many advisors as she can.

Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/theresortsoftherivieramaya

Mexperts: exploremoremexico.com/mexperts-membership

Mexican Caribbean 101:

exploremoremexico.com/offers/T7WSDFks/checkout

exploremoremexico.com/offers/MP3KunVM/checkout

Today we will cover:

(02:20) A free trip that changed everything; specializing in riviera maya
(09:40) Why specializing makes your life so much easier
(17:05) Getting first-hand experience; resort visits, excursions & local know-how
(25:15) The Mexperts community and resources for advisors
(30:10) Streamlining with custom workflows to ensure efficiency
(33:05) Establishing trust through deep destination expertise
(40:10) Tips for niching down and growing your travel business

DEFINING YOUR DREAM CLIENT GUIDE

A free workbook designed to help travel advisors define, attract, and convert more of your dream clients!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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Colors do more for your brand than just look pretty. Amandolin Webb of Smeuse Studio dives into the psychology of color and how it plays a major role in creating emotional connections, influencing perception, and building trust with your ideal audience. You’ll learn what different colors say about your brand, how to build a cohesive palette that aligns with your business goals, and the biggest mistakes to avoid when choosing your colors. Whether you're picking a palette for the first time or refreshing your brand visuals, this conversation will help you make intentional, strategic choices that leave a lasting impression. From choosing your anchor and accent colors to understanding what color actually signals to your audience, Amandolin breaks it all down in a way that’s easy to understand and fun to apply!

About Amandolin Webb:

Amandolin is the founder of Smeuse Studio, a boutique branding and web design studio helping travel advisors and creative entrepreneurs show up with clarity, confidence, and style. Formerly the Creative Director at Tique, she now brings over a decade of design experience into her signature semi-custom and custom services—making high-end branding feel streamlined, strategic, and actually enjoyable. Think of her as your design-savvy big sister—here to cut through the chaos and help build an online presence you’re proud of.

smeusestudio.com

Today we will cover:

(04:45) Understanding color psychology
(11:25) The basics of color theory; complementary, analogous, and triadic palettes
(16:30) How to choose your brand’s anchor, supporting, and accent colors
(20:30) Aligning your color palette with your brand values and audience experience
(25:00) Mistakes to avoid when choosing brand colors
(28:35) Case studies in effective branding; Go With Gray Travel, Abby Away Travel, Your Travel Joy
(34:40) Current branding trends in the travel industry

Listen to Previous Episodes:

How To Define Your Dream Client & Why It's Important For Your Travel Brand with Amandolin Webb (Part 1)
Using Proper Branding To Attract Dream Clients with Amandolin Webb (Part 2)
The Importance Of Building An Authentic Brand with Amandolin Webb

DEFINING YOUR DREAM CLIENT GUIDE

A free workbook designed to help travel advisors define, attract, and convert more of your dream clients!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

A seamless client experience doesn’t happen by accident - it’s built with intention. Tique’s Workflow Manager, Ashlyn Puckett, shares why niche workflows are the key to delivering personalized journeys that impress at every step. From Disney vacations and destination weddings to luxury cruises, you’ll learn how to tailor your systems to different trip types, master strategic timing, and use touchpoints and feedback to build lasting trust. Ashlyn also breaks down how to balance automation with personal connection, avoid common workflow pitfalls, and audit your client experience to ensure every detail aligns with your goals. Whether you're refining your processes or starting fresh, this conversation will help you create workflows that feel effortless for you and your clients!

Listen Episode 115: How Buyer Psychology Is Changing (& What To Do About It)

Explore Tique’s Client Communication Templates.

Today we will cover:

(01:15) Understanding buyer psychology; how client expectations have shifted post-2020
(05:10) Utilizing niche workflows to create personalized, standout client experiences
(10:00) Client-type workflows vs destination-based workflows
(14:00) Quick workflow audit; how to check if your touchpoints align with your goals
(22:55) Tailoring workflows by trip type: Disney, destination weddings, cruises, and more
(30:30) New workflow addition at Tique: all-inclusive sun-and-sand getaways
(33:15) Common workflow mistakes to avoid
(37:30) Bloopers

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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Learn how to confidently break into a new niche - specifically the wild world of safari travel! In this episode, Clint Saint, owner of Live Life African Safari Getaways, shares how travel advisors can successfully enter the safari market without needing to be experts in every detail. From building strong supplier partnerships to setting client expectations and marketing with heart, this conversation walks through what it really takes to sell unforgettable African adventures. You'll learn how to navigate emotional experiences like the Great Migration, why FAM trips are helpful but not required, and how to position yourself as the go-to expert for clients seeking once-in-a-lifetime trips. If you’re ready to expand your travel offerings and bring Africa’s magic to your clients, this one’s for you!

Connect with Clint Saint:

livelifesafaris.com

Today we will cover:

(03:00) Clint's background and journey into the safari travel niche
(05:40) Why advisors should lean on experienced suppliers
(10:00) How to confidently sell safari without first-hand experience
(12:30) Talking budgets, logistics, and the value of safari travel
(21:00) Addressing sensitive experiences like predator-prey sightings
(27:05) How to position yourself and inspire clients through storytelling
(40:00) FAM Trips; Clint’s take on learning through partners vs. firsthand experience
(45:00) The lasting impact of Africa

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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Budget discussions with clients aren’t always easy, but what if they didn’t have to be so awkward? Courtney Gardner, founder of Fisher and Stout, unpacks how travel advisors can confidently navigate those tricky money conversations while building trust and delivering unforgettable experiences. With a 99% referral rate, she walks through how she sets the tone from the very first call, focusing on how clients want to feel on their trip and not just what they want to spend. Learn how to handle misaligned expectations with grace, educate clients on the value of what they're getting, and use transparent pricing as a trust-building tool. If you’ve ever struggled with vague budgets or felt stuck when clients dream big but spend small, this conversation is the clarity you’ve been craving.

About Courtney Gardner:

Courtney is the founder of Fisher & Stout Travel, a boutique travel advisory specializing in custom, high-end experiences. Born and raised in Idaho, Courtney spent 20 years working in theatre and film, honing her ability to craft compelling narratives—something she now brings into the world of travel. She doesn’t just plan trips; she designs immersive stories, using a mix of meticulous planning and gut instinct to create journeys that feel effortless yet extraordinary. After starting Fisher & Stout in Arkansas, she’s built a reputation for curating seamless, meaningful travel experiences that allow her clients to discover the world in a way that’s uniquely their own.

fisherandstout.com

Today we will cover:

(03:00) From theater and film to luxury travel
(07:00) How unclear budgets lead to misaligned expectations
(10:15) The initial call; focusing on feelings instead of numbers
(18:30) How to suggest alternative destinations without disappointing clients
(21:15) The art of language in client communication
(28:20) Building trust and long-term client relationships
(34:20) Why conversation always trumps transaction

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

What if the key to unlocking your next level isn’t just strategy but connection? In this episode, Robin and Jennifer discuss five key reasons why every travel advisor needs a strong community around them. From increasing your income and accessing exclusive opportunities to finding mentorship and preventing burnout, surrounding yourself with the right people can truly transform your business. You’ll hear surprising stats (like how connected advisors earn 26% more!) and insights on how community builds credibility, trust, and long-term success. Plus, get an inside look at the Niche Community - a supportive space designed specifically for driven advisors like you. Because here’s the truth: business isn’t meant to be navigated alone. Tune in and find out why community might just be your most valuable business asset!

Today we will cover:

(02:10) Advisors with strong networks earn 26% more
(08:45) Elevating your reputation through industry involvement
(16:25) How exclusive deals and opportunities give you a competitive edge
(21:15) Gaining confidence and empowerment through experiences and resources
(23:00) The mentorship effect; growing 40% faster with the right guidance
(25:25) Investing in yourself and your business
(30:30) Overcoming burnout; the power of emotional support in community
(36:35) Benefits of joining Niche: live training from industry experts, thematic monthly content, and invaluable networking opportunities

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What makes a trip truly unforgettable? Celebrations! Whether it's a honeymoon, anniversary, or a milestone birthday, these moments deserve more than a standard itinerary. Jim Augerinos (also known as Mr. Honeymoon) has built a reputation for crafting extraordinary, personalized experiences. In this episode, he shares the secrets behind making clients feel special - through thoughtful details, deep understanding of their vision, and surprise touches that turn a trip into a cherished memory. From personal touches to unforgettable surprises, learn how to enhance your client’s celebrations and create trips that leave a lasting impact!

About Jim Augerinos:

Jim, also known as Mr. Honeymoon, grew up in the travel business—his family founded their agency in 1989—and he has been exploring the world ever since. Having personally visited 70 countries (and counting), he specializes in planning unforgettable honeymoons, babymoons, anniversary trips, and multi-generational getaways. His work has been featured in The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Martha Stewart Weddings, Washingtonian Magazine, and Travel Weekly, and he has appeared on the cover of Luxury Travel Advisor. He is also a proud Travel + Leisure A-List advisor. Whether designing a luxe beach escape or a deep cultural adventure, Jim brings firsthand experience, global connections, and a personal touch to every trip he curates.

perfecthoneymoons.com

Today we will cover:

(02:15) Jim's unique journey in the travel industry; becoming Mr. Honeymoon
(10:35) Listening and understanding clients; building personal connections
(19:20) Trends in honeymoon planning
(27:00) The value of charging fees
(32:10) Special touches that elevate the honeymoon experience
(33:55) Challenging client assumptions
(38:45) Creating special in-destination experiences
(51:50) Personalized gifts and final touches

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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Running a travel business isn’t just about booking dreamy getaways. It takes strategy, smart money moves, and strong industry connections. Kemi Wells-Conrad, Founder and President of Wells Luxury Travel, joins this episode to share insights into what it really takes to grow a thriving travel agency while maintaining work-life balance. She dives into startup costs, pricing strategies that protect your time, and the power of networking to build a thriving business. Plus, she gets real about setting boundaries and making self-care a priority. If you want to scale sustainably and actually enjoy the journey, this episode is for you!

About Kemi Wells-Conrad:

Originally from the UK, Kemi instantly fell in love with Vancouver when she moved to Canada in 2012. With an insatiable passion for travel, Kemi has visited more than 80 countries, lived on three different continents and visited all seven. With a degree in public relations, Kemi has worked for global brands in various marketing, event and communication roles. In 2014, Kemi joined the travel industry, working as the Director of Sales – Corporate and Leisure at North South Travel, where she oversaw the team, handled all strategic partnerships, sales and marketing for the agency. Six years later, at the start of 2021, Kemi decided to launch her own agency, Wells Luxury Travel, a boutique collective for advisors specializing in four key pillars: adventure, celebration, sustainability and wellness travel. Kemi is a proud member of the Travel + Leisure Advisory Board, is a featured A-Lister in their annual awards and sits on the advisory board for National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions. Kemi previously ran the Young Travel Professionals and then Millennials in Travel Vancouver chapter, as well as sitting on Virtuoso’s Global Member Advisory Board for over 6 years. She has been quoted and featured in a variety of publications, including Travel + Leisure, Robb Report, CNBC and BRIDES.

wellsluxurytravel.com

Today we will cover:

(02:00) Kemi's background; Wells Luxury Travel
(07:50) Maintaining a healthy work-life balance
(13:35) Startup costs and ongoing expenses of running a travel business
(15:40) Time management and delegation
(24:50) Financial strategies to ensure fair compensation
(26:55) Unexpected expenses associated with growing a team
(30:30) Outsourcing; tech stack essentials for running a legitimate business
(34:00) Customer service recovery and having a financial buffer
(43:50) Investing in professional development and travel experiences
(51:30) The value of attending conferences and networking

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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AI isn’t just the future - it’s transforming the travel industry right now! In this episode, AI-powered business solutions expert Kha Ly reveals how travel advisors can leverage artificial intelligence to streamline workflows, personalize client experiences, and scale their businesses like never before. From crafting compelling content and conducting in-depth research to automating tedious tasks, AI is the ultimate business partner! Kha busts common AI myths and explains how it enhances creativity rather than replacing it. He also dives into how AI strengthens client relationships with hyper-personalized communication and high-value engagement. If you’re a travel advisor wondering how to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation is packed with mind-blowing insights you won’t want to miss!

About Kha Ly:

Kha Ly is a visionary Marketing Technologist who has spent 25 years at the forefront of digital innovation. From crafting Google's early ground-breaking AdWords campaigns to shaping Meta's advertising platform, Kha has been a driving force in digital marketing's evolution. Kha's role is set to revolutionize how travel advisors approach marketing. His expertise will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving landscape, harnessing the power of digital and AI technologies to enhance your reach and effectiveness. Join Kha to unlock the power of AI and position yourself at the cutting edge of travel marketing. Prepare to revolutionize your approach and drive growth in the digital age.

facebook.com/itsallaboutkha

Today we will cover:

(01:50) Kha’s business journey and commitment to helping travel advisors
(05:55) How AI allows advisors to scale their business
(08:55) Chatbots and AI tools; ChatGPT, Claude
(16:10) Using AI for effective client communication
(17:15) AI-driven research assistants; deep research into competitor practices, fee structure strategies, and business model optimizations
(27:20) AI agents and disprofilers
(34:40) Curating personalized itineraries and touchpoints; Gamma.app
(41:00) Voice cloning and audio innovations; 11Labs
(46:30) Notebook LM; AI-hosted discussions about client-specific travel plans

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

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JOIN OUR NICHE COMMUNITY: tiquehq.com/niche

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As tax season looms, many travel advisors find themselves in unfamiliar waters. Organizing finances and preparing for tax filings can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and strategies, this annual chore becomes much more manageable. In this episode, tax expert Andrew Roed shares tips to help travel advisors stay organized, save money, and avoid costly mistakes. From choosing the right business structure to smart payment strategies and avoiding IRS penalties, Andrew covers what every advisor needs to know. He also clears up common deduction myths, explains estimated tax payments, and reveals how to use your financial data to grow your business. Don’t let tax season stress you out - tune in now and take control of your finances!

About Andrew Roed:

Andrew Roed is an IRS Enrolled Agent, husband to a Travel Advisor and owner of a Company called Taxes For Travel Agents, LLC. Taxes for Travel Agents, LLC focuses on providing tax preparation, tax planning and most importantly financial education for Travel Advisors.

taxesfortravelagents.com

Facebook Group: Taxes for Travel Agents

Today we will cover:

(01:20) Andrew’s background; becoming a tax expert for travel advisors
(04:50) Sole Proprietorship vs. LLC
(08:25) Treating your LLC as a separate entity
(10:25) Switching to an S Corporation status: is it right for you?
(14:10) Strategies for paying yourself as a business owner
(19:45) Planning for taxes; setting aside funds and estimated payments
(28:40) Tax deductions and write-offs; examples of business expenses
(35:10) Tax surprises and hidden costs; hiring a professional for tax preparation
(40:45) Utilizing tax data and planning for the future
(53:40) Retirement planning options for travel advisors; Solo 401(k)

SEMI CUSTOM BRAND KITS

Browse our collection of pre-designed brand kits that are customized to your brand's unique personality by our talented Creative Director!

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Are you struggling to crack the SEO code and get your travel business noticed? SEO expert Rebecca Lombardo shares exactly how travel advisors can boost their visibility and attract the right clients. She reveals why SEO isn’t just about Google anymore - platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn play a huge role too. Plus, she dives into the power of niche content, AI tools like Claude and ChatGPT, and the must-have website strategies to rank higher and convert more leads. Whether you're new to SEO or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers actionable tips for optimizing your content, utilizing social media, and making the most out of your blog. Tune in now and start optimizing!

About Rebecca Lombardo:

Rebecca Bredholt Lombardo is a passionate marketing strategist and the founder of the Rebecca Lombardo Agency, known for her innovative approach to helping brands achieve their marketing goals. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Rebecca has dedicated her career to crafting customized marketing solutions that resonate with businesses across various sectors. As a speaker and educator, Rebecca regularly shares her insights at industry conferences and workshops, empowering other marketers and business owners to refine their strategies and embrace innovative tools. Her genuine passion for seeing others succeed is at the core of her work.

rebeccalombardoagency.com

Today we will cover:

(01:50) Rebecca's journey from print publications writer to digital marketing expert
(04:40) The rise of social media and shift of SEO dynamics
(06:10) SEO strategies for travel advisors; the E.A.T concept
(13:00) SEO vs. social media; using a multi-faceted approach
(22:55) The effective use of paid ads
(25:20) Creating engaging blog content
(28:00) Technical SEO; optimizing website structure and navigation
(31:45) Achieving five-star reviews through authenticity
(33:30) Using AI for content creation; Claude, Jasper, ChatGPT
(44:20) Understanding keywords and backlinks
(47:00) DIY vs. outsourcing SEO; when to seek expert guidance

WORKFLOW TEMPLATES

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SEMI CUSTOM BRAND KITS

Browse our collection of pre-designed brand kits that are customized to your brand's unique personality by our talented Creative Director!

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Making the move to a new host agency can feel overwhelming - but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Ashley Theis from Constant Wayfarer shares her advice on navigating the transition smoothly and strategically. She covers the main reasons advisors switch hosts, key factors to evaluate (like commission structures and industry partnerships), and her step-by-step research process, including how to get insights from suppliers. Plus, she shares smart tips on financial planning, timing your transition, and communicating with clients and host agencies to keep things seamless. If a host agency change is on your radar, this episode is packed with must-know advice to help you make the switch with confidence!

About Ashley Theis:

Originally from Delaware, but currently calls Charlotte, NC home. Ashley has been in the travel industry since 2017. Formerly, she had worked for a television network and a non profit as an event planner and project manager. Since 2021, she has been full time with her travel agency, designing luxury trips all over the world for couples and families.

theconstantwayfarer.com

Today we will cover:

(01:20) Ashley’s background and transition to becoming a full-time travel advisor
(04:30) When to switch host agencies; aligning expectations with reality
(07:20) Evaluating different host agencies
(20:30) Financial considerations and commission structures
(32:10) The transition process; Ashley’s structured approach for planning and execution
(38:05) Client communications and supplier notifications
(40:20) Maintaining positive relationships; ensuring legal and contractual obligations are met

SEMI CUSTOM BRAND KITS

Browse our collection of pre-designed brand kits that are customized to your brand's unique personality by our talented Creative Director!

TONIC

Get 15% off your purchase when you use the code, TiqueSentMe

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AGENCY EXPANSION ACADEMY IS BACK! → This signature program is your complete, self-paced blueprint for building a dream team of pros, streamlining your operations, and unlocking the kind of growth that feels effortless and sustainable.

Consumer behavior is changing quickly, and the travel industry is feeling the impact. What consumers prioritize has changed drastically compared to five years ago. In this episode, Robin and Jennifer dive into the psychology behind these changes and what today’s travelers truly value. From the rise of personalization and emotional connections to the demand for seamless convenience in a digital era, they break down what’s driving modern buying decisions. Learn how to build stronger relationships, create friction-free client experiences, and leverage the power of community and social proof to stay ahead of competition. If you want to future-proof your travel business, this episode is a must-listen!

Today we will cover:

(04:45) Building deeper client connections and adapting to consumer feedback
(16:50) The shift towards values and informed choices
(29:00) Enhancing client experience and convenience in the digital era
(38:20) The role of community and social proof
(42:20) Tapping into emotional investment; the influence of Taylor Swift
(45:15) Understanding client priorities for upselling
(51:00) Remaining agile and adapting to emerging trends
(52:45) The rise of wellness travel and biohacking
(55:50) Leveraging sales psychology podcasts for business insights
(57:05) Bloopers

WORKFLOW TEMPLATES

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Ranked #6 on FeedSpot’s Top 25 Best Florida Business Podcasts

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Imagine this…instead of being a generalist, trying to cater to every traveler's needs, you become a specialist, catering to a specific group of passionate adventurers. Sounds intriguing, right?

In this episode, Robin and Jennifer uncover the many reasons why narrowing your focus can bring incredible benefits to your travel advising business. A niche doesn't have to be limited to a specific destination, but can also focus on a particular type of travel or target audience. By focusing on what you do well and specializing in a specific area, you can enhance your expertise and provide a higher level of service to your clients.

Tune in to learn how narrowing your niche can streamline your sales process, target your marketing efforts, and even give you a competitive advantage in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned travel advisor or just starting out, this episode is packed full of valuable insights and practical tips to help you level up your marketing and sales game!

Defining Your Dream Client Guide:

https://tique.thrivecart.com/free-download-dydc/

Today we will cover:

(01:14) What is a niche
(03:40) Targeting a specific audience
(12:50) Being honest with potential clients and setting expectations
(20:00) Working with specialized partners in your niche
(26:20) Frustration with luxury travel as a niche
(32:18) Client testimonials and raising fees
(37:05) Saying no to trips that don't align with your niche
(40:40) Specialization of advisors and generational differences

Join Niche Premium - An online community specifically for travel advisors!

www.tiquehq.com/join-niche

Get started with Planoly!

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One of the most common questions we receive is, when is the right time to grow your team. Hiring the right people can have a significant impact on your business, but it's not a decision to be taken lightly!

In this episode, Robin and Jen discuss the signs that indicate it's time to hire, why you need to have systems in place BEFORE hiring, the benefits of outsourcing tasks to specialists, and so much more! As the travel industry continues to grow and evolve, it's imperative to hire individuals that align with your brand, have the necessary skills and expertise, and can contribute to the growth and success of your business. By following the guidelines mentioned in this episode, you can build a team that will help you achieve your goals and take your business to new heights!

Today we will cover:

(02:10) Signs that indicate it's time to start looking to hire
(07:00) Why it’s crucial to have systems in place before hiring
(12:00) Making errors in your business
(14:50) Things to do before hiring team members
(21:30) Hiring independent contractors (IC’s)
(31:05) Knowing your numbers, making data-driven decisions, and focusing on important metrics
(41:50) The benefits of outsourcing specific tasks and finding the right person for the job

Enroll in The Agency Expansion Academy!

https://www.tiquehq.com/agency-expansion-academy

Get $57 off an annual membership with Lucia!

https://app.letslucia.com/signup/partner

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In the 3rd and final episode of the Summer Systems Series, Robin and Jen discuss all things ClickUp. This powerful project management platform brings order and structure to departments within your business!

Learn how ClickUp can help with organization, as well as streamline processes and improve the overall efficiency of your business. Also get an overview of the many features ClickUp has to offer, such as task management, communication and collaboration, customizable workflows, and administrative support.

ClickUp allows business owners to track progress, monitor key metrics, and ensure that every department is aligned with the overall goals. If you feel that your tasks are unorganized or that your business is currently defined as “servicing clients”, this episode is perfect for you!

Today we will cover:

(02:30) What is ClickUp
(16:35) Streamlining tasks and project management
(20:30) Using ClickUp for time tracking and pricing strategy
(22:50) Customizing workflows and automations
(30:55) Collaboration and communication features
(32:00) Storing SOPs and password management
(38:20) Enabling administrative support and delegation
(44:35) The benefits of ClickUp for the growth of your business

Revolutionize your workflow with CLICKUP!

Sign up for a FREE trial when you use code: TIQUE

https://app.clickup.com/8641060/settings/rewards

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Looking to boost your email marketing game? Learn how Flowdesk can enhance your sales conversions and create impactful email campaigns with ease. Say goodbye to complicated design tools and hello to Flodesk’s drag and drop editor!

Kaytee Fisher, Tique’s resident email marketing guru, joins this conversation to share why Flowdesk is the travel advisors dream email marketing platform. Its user-friendly interface, powerful automation capabilities, and personalized campaigns make it the ideal platform for you to connect with your audience and drive business growth. Learn all about targeted campaigns, newsletters, nurture sequins, and so much more! Listen now and get started with taking your email marketing to the next level!

Today we will cover:

(02:20) Creating visually stunning emails using the drag and drop editor
(05:05) Automation triggers and segmenting capabilities for targeted campaigns
(11:10) The importance of personalized and targeted email campaigns
(13:35) How to create an opt-in and nurture sequence
(18:10) Tips for making email marketing easy and not getting overwhelmed
(34:20) Cleaning up subscribers and analyzing metrics
(46:08) Leveraging Flowdesk's live link feature
(49:00) Creating engaging newsletters with itinerary previews

FLODESK:

Snag 50% off your 1st year of a membership!

FLODESK LAB:

Everything you need to know to finally get “send routine newsletters” off of your to-do list and delivered to those inboxes!

https://shop.tiquehq.com/flodesk-lab-masterclass

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In today's world, it's essential for travel advisors to use modern systems and software to streamline their workflow and enhance their client experience. TravelJoy offers a comprehensive platform designed to do just that!

Ashlyn Puckett, Tique’s client experience expert, is here to discuss the incredible benefits of TraveJoy for travel advisors, including customizable and visually appealing proposals, streamlined workflow and centralization of client management, features to protect your business, and auditing. The conversation also touches on the importance of modernizing the travel industry's approach and leveraging technology to showcase a high-end client experience.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear understanding of how TravelJoy can revolutionize your travel advising business and elevate your client satisfaction to new heights!

Today we will cover:

(01:47) Aesthetic capabilities of TravelJoy
(05:24) Streamlined workflow and centralized portal for client management
(08:50) Features for email communication
(15:39) What actually is a workflow?
(19:00) How TravelJoy enhances the client experience process
(22:05) Protective features for information management
(28:52) Modernizing the travel industry's approach
(33:15) Protective measures and auditing
(42:55) Commission reporting and metrics

SEVEN FIGURE SALES:

For the advisor ready to close more sales & boost their revenue with confidence!

ONLY available August 9-16! https://www.tiquehq.com/seven-figure-sales

ELEVATED EXPERIENCE WORKFLOW:

Take your systems from scary to streamlined with the Elevated Experience Workflow!

https://www.tiquehq.com/elevated-experience-workflow

TRAVEFY:

https://travefy.com/refer/TIQUEBARZ6KWXJA

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As travel advisors, we understand the importance of personalized service and attention to detail in creating extraordinary travel experiences for our clients. Ashlyn Puckett, the amazing community manager for TiqueHQ, joins this conversation to discuss the secrets of VIPing your clients through hotels, exploring how to communicate special occasions effectively, coordinate seamless transportation, and leverage your industry connections for exclusive access. Also learn why advocating for priority services is so important, as well as how you can coordinate unique experiences that go above and beyond.

By following these insider strategies, you can create extraordinary travel experiences that will leave a lasting impression on your clients and keep them coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned travel advisor or an aspiring professional in the industry, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Today we will cover:

(01:21) The importance of coordinating seamless transportation and working with vetted transfer companies
(11:20) How building relationships with the hotel management and staff can enhance the client experience
(20:20) The role of DMCs in providing exclusive experiences
(28:40) Asking for priority services and special treatment
(39:50) Understanding that not every client is a VIP
(43:00) How rep companies come into play
(45:30) Personalized gifts and surprises from hotels

SEVEN FIGURE SALES

For the advisor ready to close more sales & boost their revenue with confidence!

ONLY available August 9-16! https://www.tiquehq.com/seven-figure-sales

ELEVATED EXPERIENCE WORKFLOW

Take your systems from scary to streamlined!

https://www.tiquehq.com/elevated-experience-workflow

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Don't let rejection get you down! Failing doesn't mean you're not good enough, but rather an opportunity for growth and improvement.

This conversation discusses the emotional impact and transformative power of failing with clients, specifically during the sales process. Learn how adopting a growth mindset, staying curious, and being self-aware, will allow you to navigate rejection more effectively and use it as a stepping stone towards success. Also learn about the different points of failure in the sales process, as well as insights on evaluating and tweaking various aspects of your business to attract the right clients.

Rejection is inevitable, and even the most successful travel advisors have experienced their share of failures. By embracing failure and learning from it, you can refine our sales approach, better serve your clients, and ultimately thrive in the travel industry!

Today we will cover:

(01:24) Different points of failure in the sales process
(08:05) Adopting a growth mindset
(15:50) Biggest sales bloopers
(25:44) Having a curious mindset
(32:45) Dealing with rejection and staying resilient
(45:00) Surrounding yourself with supportive advisors

Download the FREE Sales Objections Playbook!

www.tiquehq.com/sales-objections-playbook

Join our LIVE Workshop:

Crafting Your Irresistible Sales Pitch on August 7th at 2:00pm EST

Register Now: www.tiquehq.com/sales-story-workshop

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Episode 32 was all about how to articulate your value as a travel advisor. This week, Robin and Jen take the discussion a bit further and discuss how to overcome sales objections with confidence.

Travel advisors often face objections from prospective clients that can make them hesitate or even halt the progress of a sale. However, instead of viewing objections as obstacles, think of them as opportunities to showcase your value and expertise. This episode reviews common objections and discusses the strategies for overcoming them with ease!

Download the FREE Sales Objections Playbook!

www.tiquehq.com/sales-objections-playbook

Today we will cover:

(01:05) What is a sales objection?
(06:40) Preparing for objections
(20:25) The 7 P’s
(21:35) Strategies for overcoming objections
(28:00) Approaching objections with empathy
(37:50) Role-playing your sales pitch

Listen to Episode 26 - Why Tailoring Your Sales Approach Is Key For Business Success

Listen to Episode 31 - How To Articulate What You Do As A Modern-Day Travel Advisor

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Are you struggling to attract the right clients to your travel business? Don’t miss this episode!

It's no secret that Tique is big on brand identity and creating boundaries within the client experience. One area where branding and boundaries intersect is in brand messaging and storytelling. In this conversation, Robin and Jen discuss the significance of brand messaging, how to identify your target audience, and the power of a compelling brand story.

Learn how you can attract the right clients, build trust and loyalty, differentiate yourself from competitors, and increase sales and revenue. Take the time to develop a strong brand narrative that resonates with your ideal audience and watch your business thrive!

Join our FREE Live Workshop:

Crafting Your Irresistible Sales Pitch on August 7th at 2:00pm EST

Register Now: www.tiquehq.com/sales-story-workshop

Today we will cover:

(01:30) Defining your target audience
(04:10) Analyzing your current and desired client roster
(15:00) Why brand messaging is so important
(28:05) The power of a brand story
(46:15) How brand messaging impacts your sales and business’ success
(49:10) Creating an irresistible sales pitch

Defining Your Dream Client Guide: https://tique.thrivecart.com/free-download-dydc/

Sales Objections Playbook Free Download: www.tiquehq.com/sales-objections-playbook

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“Travel agents still exist?” - There’s no doubt, we've all been asked this question. Honestly, it can feel impossible to summarize everything that a travel advisor does in the few seconds that we have to respond to that question.

The role of an advisor has evolved significantly in recent years. Many people now believe they can plan and book their own trips using the internet and online reviews. However, travel advisors offer much more than just booking services. They provide personalized expertise, foster relationships with suppliers, and offer support in times of crisis.

This conversation talks through how you can articulate your value to someone who may not understand the benefits of working with you. If you've stumbled over explaining why someone should work with a travel advisor versus booking a trip on their own, this episode is for you!

Today we will cover:

(06:20) The human touch and transitioning a good trip into a spectacular trip
(11:30) Explaining the knowledge, expertise and value of travel advisors
(19:10) What to say when asked, “do travel advisors still exist?”
(30:10) Saving clients from stress and handling crises behind the scenes
(41:50) Building relationships with suppliers and vendors for better client experiences

Confidently Tackle Client Objections With The SALES OBJECTION PLAYBOOK!

Free Download: www.tiquehq.com/sales-objections-playbook

Get started with Planoly!

https://www.planoly.com/referral/tiquehq

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Like any new technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has come onto the scene and caused quite a bit of uproar. You may already be familiar with Chat GPT, but now there are also travel focused AI platforms that can help individuals plan their own itineraries. There’s no doubt about it, AI is reshaping the travel industry!

Grace McBride, founder of Lucia, joins the show to discuss the role of AI, as well as her thoughts on it actually changing the roles of travel advisors. Should we fear this new technology? Will it replace the modern travel advisor? Tune in to find out!

About Grace McBride:

Grace is a dedicated entrepreneur and innovator in the luxury travel industry, currently serving as the Founder & CEO of Lucia. Lucia is a marketplace that connects the luxury travel industry with freelancers, addressing the labor shortage crisis and helping businesses scale without hiring. Grace's professional journey has been deeply rooted in both luxury travel and startups, serving as the CEO of TripKit and COO of MilesAhead. She was a Fellow in the New York 2021 cohort of the Startup Leadership Program and a Philip C. Wolf Memorial Scholarship winner of the Phocuswright Conference in 2022. Grace received her BS at Cornell University and MBA at the University of Notre Dame. She is always excited to try the next new hotel or restaurant and currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.

https://www.letslucia.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/graceluciamcbride/

Today we will cover:

(03:10) Will AI replace travel advisors?
(05:30) The importance of travel advisors showing their value
(10:00) Using AI to streamline backend of your business
(14:09) The need for personalization and human connection
(19:00) Ways AI can enhance the travel industry
(29:05) Embracing AI as a tool to improve efficiency and productivity
(36:00) Thoughts on the future of AI in the travel industry

Get $57 off an annual membership with Lucia!

https://app.letslucia.com/signup/partner

Get 15% off your purchase at tonicsiteshop.com

Use code at checkout: TiqueSentMe

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Today, Robin and Jen take a detour from the solopreneur path and dive deep into the realm of dynamic duos. If you've ever wondered how to find your perfect partner in crime or maintain harmony amongst the chaos, you’re in for a treat!

Successful partnerships require more than just business expertise. This honest conversation discusses the importance of openness and trust in a partnership, the balance of skills and responsibilities, financial transparency, and planning for unforeseen circumstances. Tune in as the ladies share their own personal experiences, as well as the important aspects of building a strong, successful business partnership!

Today we will cover:

(00:40) The foundation of a strong partnership
(06:40) Specific strengths and roles in a partnership
(13.40) The reason things can go sideways in a partnership
(17:00) The benefits of having a common vision for the business
(26:15) Conflict in a business partnership and maintaining boundaries
(33:20) Celebrating milestones and defining rewards
(36:20) Respecting each other's boundaries
(40:05) The importance of having a system for storing information and respecting each other's time

Get $100 off when you join Gusto!

https://gusto.com/r/robin4469

Revolutionize your workflow with CLICKUP

Sign up for a FREE trial when you use code: TIQUE

https://app.clickup.com/8641060/settings/rewards

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Social media is the number one thing that we hear travel advisors struggling to manage. The ever-changing algorithm, multiple platforms, ads, hashtags, creating posts that actually resonate with your target audience…is all of this even worth it?

The answer is YES! However, we are big on progress over perfection, and simplifying the lives of travel advisors. This episode is dedicated to removing the overwhelm, intimidation, and analysis paralysis of social media.

Kaytee Fisher (Tique’s Marketing Administrator) joins us as we explore how to simplify social media using automation tools like Planoly, and how to optimize hashtags for better reach. We also delve into the importance of content pillars and how they can help travel advisors focus on their ideal client and create intentional content.

We recommend listening to this episode in full because the good nuggets and easy ways to implement are going to be at the end after we set the foundation!

Today we will cover:

(01:43) How Planoly can help with overthinking social media
(05:23) Effective hashtags and targeting specific audiences
(08:58) Content pillars
(15:00) Utilizing email marketing
(17:21) Creating content pillars that align with your brand and values
(21:10) You are the product and leveraging your unique value
(27:59) The biggest way to stop overthinking your social media strategy
(36:00) The importance of not being afraid to get a little controversial
(42:50) Finding a creative space for content creation
(49:25) Repurposing testimonials and creating easy, no-brainer content
(57:00) Instagram reels

Get started with Planoly!

https://www.planoly.com/referral/tiquehq

Start looking like a design professional with Canva Pro!

https://partner.canva.com/c/3742416/647168/10068

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Client gifting: necessary or an extra expense? This conversation dives into the pros and cons of client gifting in the travel industry.

As a business owner, of course you want your clients to feel appreciated, and a great way to do that is by sending a gift. However, it’s important to consider factors like cost and even the impact it’ll have on your business. Learn tips for making client gifting a success, why intentionality is so important, and also why your bank account, client demographic, and vision for your business are important things to review beforehand. Tune in now for advice on things to consider BEFORE adding gifting to your travel business!

Today we will cover:

(02:00) The benefits of client gifting
(07:55) Things to consider when sending a gift
(11:00) An amenity is not a gift
(16:05) Cons of client gifting
(21:36) Tier structure for gift ideas
(25:50) Creating structure and simplicity in your business

@luxurytravelanonymous https://www.instagram.com/luxurytravelanonymous/

Get $100 off when you join Gusto!

https://gusto.com/r/robin4469

Revolutionize your workflow with CLICKUP

Sign up for a FREE trial when you use code: TIQUE

https://app.clickup.com/8641060/settings/rewards

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This conversation is centered around the one word that makes people shudder...sales! As travel advisors, we love to plan travel, but don't want the stigma of being someone who sells for a living. However, that’s exactly what it is.

Learn the importance of sales messaging and why it should be tailored to your potential client's demographic and psychographics. Confidently knowing what you are selling as well as perfecting your messaging are both key to successful sales. Messaging that resonates with an older demographic, such as saving for a multi-generational trip, may not have the same effect on a younger demographic.

Listen now as we dissect how you can adjust your process, verbiage, and general approach to individualized clients so that you are tapping into their value system and creating credibility from the very beginning!

Today we will cover:

(01:27) Demographics versus psychographics
(06:29) Why you’re not closing the sale
(07:30) Baby boomers, Millennials, Gen Z’ers
(16:35) Tailoring your business process to your ideal client
(26:15) Comparing your expectations to social media
(32:35) Consultative seller versus a salesperson
(39:50) Having confidence in what your offer
(44:20) Leveling up as a travel advisor

The Defining Your Dream Client Guide https://tique.thrivecart.com/free-download-dydc/

Take your travel business to new heights with SHOWIT

Click to get your 1st month FREE! https://showit.com/?referralCode=tique

Revolutionize your workflow with CLICKUP

Sign up for a FREE trial when you use code: TIQUE

https://app.clickup.com/8641060/settings/rewards

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