The Lounge with Travefy Academy: Recent Episodes
Travefy Academy
Join Travefy as we speak with industry leaders, experts and veterans to hear their story on how they built their business and their perspectives on where the industry is going. Welcome to The Lounge.
Ali Raymer spent nine years building her business at Picture This Travel before launching her own agency, Peace & Pearl Travel Co. In this episode, she breaks down what it actually takes to find, hire, and train the right people, starting with her very first hire (a former student) and the unconventional paths several of her other advisors took to get there.
She also shares the harder lessons: the traits she actually looks for before bringing someone on, why giving away the leads she wasn't passionate about ended up growing her business, and how she built an onboarding system that lets new advisors ramp up without her having to be in the room for every conversation.
Plus, how her team stays connected day to day, and why the right tools (including Travefy) matter more once you're not the only one running the show.
If you've ever thought about building a team, whether that means growing where you are or eventually starting your own agency, this one's for you.
Show Notes:
Website: peaceandpearltravel.com
Instagram: @alipeaceandpearltravel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alipeaceandpearltravel/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AliPeaceandPearl
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alipeaceandpearltravel
✨ Listen to more episodes of The Lounge Podcast at https://lp.travefy.com/the-lounge
Every advisor remembers that first inquiry. The excitement, then the quiet panic of realizing you have a customer now and no system for what comes next.
Jonathan Morris spent years as a retail agent before building Legato, a host agency built around an agent-first philosophy. In this conversation he shares what he's learned coaching hundreds of agents through the foundation stage, including a story about an advisor who sold out cruise groups within days and still nearly burned out because the systems weren't there to support the growth.
We get into the first 90 days, how to actually build a relationship with a BDM, why quarterly business checkups matter more than most agents think, and what led Legato to become the first host agency to integrate with Travefy.
Show Notes:
- Learn more about Legato
- Find Legato on social: Instagram, Facebook, & Linkedin
Learn more about Travefy's partnership with Legato and see how your host agency can become the next integration: https://travefy.com/blog-post/legato-integration
✨ Listen to more episodes of The Lounge Podcast at https://lp.travefy.com/the-lounge
Your agency's financial story is already written. The question is whether you're reading it.
Most travel advisors got into this business because they love travel, not because they love spreadsheets. But ignoring the financial side of your agency isn't just stressful. It's costing you money you've already earned.
In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Cannon, a licensed CPA, small business accountant, and 20-year travel advisor, for a candid conversation about the financial blind spots that affect advisors at every stage — from solo practitioners to agencies with 30+ advisors.
We cover what you should actually be tracking and how often, why "I'll deal with it at tax time" is quietly hurting your business, how to figure out what you need to earn to pay yourself what you're worth, the real cost of commissions you never reconcile, and why your numbers are telling you a story, you just have to be willing to read it.
Show Notes:
- Visit Stephanie Cannon's Website
- Join Stephanie Cannon's Facebook Group: "First Class Profit Lounge"
- Stephanie's Real Pay Calculator
Find Stephanie Cannon on Social:
Learn more about tracking and reconciling booking commissions through Travefy at https://travefy.com/solutions/building-for-agencies & start your free trial today!
✨ Listen to more episodes of The Lounge Podcast at https://lp.travefy.com/the-lounge
Every travel advisor knows the feeling: you've pitched a trip, poured time into the details, and the client either disappears, says they found it cheaper somewhere else, or hits you with the dreaded "I'll get back to you." So what do you actually say?
In this episode, we sit down with Harish Shroff, VP of Sales at Indus Travels and author of Mastering the Art of Sales, for a conversation built around the real moments that trip up even experienced advisors. We dig into why jumping to price is a signal you haven't built enough value yet, how to use a recap strategy when a client stalls, the follow-up mistake most advisors don't realize they're making, and why the best thing you can do after a client returns from a trip isn't wait for them to call you.
This one's practical, honest, and worth sharing with anyone on your team who talks to clients.
Show Notes:
- Get the Book: Mastering the Art of Sales
- Connect with Harish Shroff on Linkedin
- Learn more about Indus Travels
Wave Season can bring a surge of inquiries and bookings. It can also bring long hours, constant notifications, and a pace that is hard to sustain.
In this episode of The Lounge by Travefy, we sit down with Stacey Cabell, a 14-year travel industry veteran, to explore how advisors can maintain peak performance without burning out.
We cover how to recognize the early signs of burnout, why protecting your energy improves both your business and your client experience, and simple habits you can implement right away to stay consistent during Wave Season and beyond.
You’ll also hear practical ideas for setting healthy client boundaries, building confidence through small wins, and using systems that reduce daily mental load. Because a sustainable travel business is not built in chaos.
Show Notes:
- Visit Stacey's Website at http://staceycabell.com
✨ Listen to more episodes of The Lounge Podcast at https://lp.travefy.com/the-lounge
Are conferences actually worth the time and money, especially with so much virtual education available now? In this episode, we sit down with Kelley Wright (Travel Agent Recruitment) and Stephanie McCracken (Director of Marketing) from Travel Show Marketing Group, the team behind Travel Agent Forum, to break down how advisors can approach events strategically.
You’ll learn how attendees can get the most ROI from conferences, when it may not make sense to attend, how to choose the right event for your business stage, and how to avoid burnout while maximizing networking and follow-up.
Plus, we share details on Travefy Live, Travefy’s user conference happening May 12, 2026 in Las Vegas — and why it’s the perfect add-on to Travel Agent Forum.
Show Notes:
- Learn More + Register for Travefy Live
- Learn More + Register for Travel Agent Forum in Las Vegas
- Check out Travel Show Marketing Groups' other events
- Join Kelley's "Travel Show Marketing Group 2026 Events and Application Process" webinars: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/regis... (Happening on Feb. 23, 2026) and https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/regis... (Happening on Feb. 24, 2026)
Choosing a host agency can shape your entire travel business—but it’s often misunderstood.
In this episode, we're joined by Shayna Zand from Host Agency Reviews to break down what host agencies are actually designed to do for advisors, and what they’re not.
We unpack common misconceptions around fees and commission splits, why long-term success has more to do with fit and expectations than numbers on paper, and what truly separates advisors who thrive at a host agency from those who struggle, even within the same host.
This episode is a must-listen for agents and advisors considering a host, thinking about switching, or wanting to get more value from the one they’re with.
🔗 Show Notes & Resources:
Host Week 2026 -
- Join Travefy's Coffee Spot during Host Week on January 27! [Register Here]
- Learn about Host Week and Register (for free!)
Free Resources from Host Agency Reviews -
- Top 10 Benefits of Using a Host Agency
- A Travel Agent's Guide to Charging Fees
- Host Agency Commission Plan Comparison Calculator
- Choosing the Right Host: 5 Things to Consider
Artificial intelligence is no longer “coming soon” for travel advisors—it’s already reshaping how business gets done. In this episode, we’re joined by Travefy CEO David Chait to unpack what AI truly means for advisors right now and where it’s headed next.
This conversation is grounded in real advisor insights from Travefy’s recent collaboration with Travel Market Report’s first-ever Outlook on AI Trends in the Travel Industry. Using key findings from the report, we explore where advisors are seeing the biggest efficiency gains, how AI impacts personalization and privacy, why adoption is accelerating, and what advisors should focus on as this shift continues.
If you want a clear, realistic look at how AI is shaping the future of the advisor business, this episode delivers.
✨ Resources & Links:
🔗 Travel Market Reports's Outlook on A.I.Trends in the Industry, 2025
🔗 Learn more about The Lounge podcast & listen to other episodes
🔗 Subscribe to Travefy's Newsletter
🔗 Start a Free Trial of Travefy
After the booking is made, your sales process isn’t over, it’s entering the stage that matters most. In Episode 4 of The Lounge by Travefy’s Sales Workshop Series, we chat with Courtnie Nichols, CEO of Travel Bash and founder of The Biz Huddle, to explore how thoughtful post-booking care turns happy travelers into loyal, repeat clients.
Courtnie shares simple ways to wow clients, how to personalize touch points, smart systems for gathering testimonials, and why referrals become effortless when you deliver an experience that feels unforgettable. As the finale of our four-part series, this episode brings the full sales journey together—from mindset to marketing to workflow to long-term loyalty.
✨ What you’ll learn:
- Why most advisors stop selling too early and how to fix it
- Easy “surprise and delight” moments that cost little but mean a lot
- How to personalize the client journey at every stage
- A simple system for collecting testimonials and reviews
- Natural, non-awkward ways to encourage referrals
- The one improvement you can make this week to boost retention
🔗 Resources & Links:
- Learn more about The Lounge Podcast's Sales Workshop Series
- Subscribe to Travefy's Newsletter
- Start a Free Trial of Travefy
- Visit Courtnie's Website
- Learn More About The Biz Huddle
🎧 This is Episode 4—the finale of The Lounge by Travefy’s Sales Workshop Series. Catch up on Episodes 1–3 to complete the full sales journey!
Once the leads start rolling in—what happens next?
In Episode 3 of The Lounge by Travefy’s Sales Workshop Series, we chat with Angela Hughes, CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel and founder of Luxury Travel University, to unpack how to design a sales workflow that actually works.
Angela shares how to qualify clients effectively, when to charge fees, how to balance automation with personal connection, and why consistency—not hustle—is the real key to conversions. From the first discovery call to post-trip follow-up, this episode walks you through a repeatable system that keeps your pipeline flowing and clients returning.
✨ What you’ll learn:
- How to turn leads into real opportunities (not dead ends)
- The discovery-call questions that reveal your best clients
- When, and how, to confidently introduce your service fee
- Where to automate vs. when to stay human
- The “follow-up framework” that turns happy travelers into repeat clients
- Why consistency and accountability are your most powerful sales tools
🔗 Resources & Links:
- Learn more about The Lounge Podcast's Sales Workshop Series
- Subscribe to Travefy's Newsletter
- Start a Free Trial of Travefy
- Trips & Ships Luxury Travel Website
- Follow Angela on Instagram
- Find Angela on Linkedin
🎧 This episode is part 3 of the 4-part Sales Workshop Series on The Lounge by Travefy. Catch up on Episodes 1 and 2 to complete your sales journey, from mindset to marketing to workflow. Learn more here!
Marketing doesn’t have to be loud, complicated, or icky. In this Sales Workshop Series episode, we chat with travel advisor and business strategist Roslyn Ransefrom Travel Agent Achievers to unpack a simple, human-first system for getting more of the right clients. We cover why value beats “specials,” how to ask for referrals without feeling salesy, a one-hour-a-week marketing routine, and what to track over a 90-day test so momentum compounds. You’ll hear practical examples and a tiny homework assignment that moves the needle today.
✨ What you’ll learn:
- How to sell value, not just deals
- Why you should segment your client lists & add personalization
- A one-hour weekly plan to create, engage, and prep for the next week
- How to measure your marketing success in a 90-day period
🎧 This episode is part 2 of our 4-part Sales Workshop series on The Lounge by Travefy. Learn more about Sales Workshop and listen to other episodes!
🔗 Resources & Links:
- Learn more about The Lounge Podcast's Sales Workshop Series
- Subscribe to Travefy's Newsletter
- Start a Free Trial of Travefy
- Roslyn's Resources for Travefy Listeners!
- Listen to Roslyn's Podcast: Travel Agent Achievers Podcast
👉 Subscribe to The Lounge by Travefy so you don’t miss the next two episodes in the Sales Workshop series, and share this kickoff with an advisor who needs a confidence boost today!
Welcome back to The Lounge Podcast by Travefy and the kickoff of Sales Workshop series, designed to strengthen every step of your travel sales process. In Episode 1, we sit down with Glenda Beagle from The Art of Selling Travel to start where great selling truly begins: mindset.
Glenda unpacks why advisors fear “being salesy,” how to stay authentic, and practical ways to stop getting ghosted after proposals. You’ll learn when not to send a proposal, how to walk clients through it (live or via a quick video), and a simple one-liner for confidently charging fees. We also dig into the difference between objections vs. rejections, why silence helps you close, and a weekly habit to build momentum and celebrate wins.
✨ What you’ll learn:
- A mindset reframe that makes selling feel ethical and fun
- The real reason for ghosting—and how to prevent it
- Exactly how to present proposals so clients say yes
- A clear script to introduce your planning fee with confidence
- How to spot (and solve) hidden objections
- A quick ritual to track wins and keep motivation high
🎧 This episode is part 1 of our 4-part Sales Workshop series on The Lounge by Travefy. Learn more about Sales Workshop and listen to other episodes!
🔗 Resources & Links:
- Learn more about The Lounge Podcast's Sales Workshop Series
- Subscribe to Travefy's Newsletter
- Start a Free Trial of Travefy
Learn More about Glenda Beagle:
- Visit Glenda's Website artofsellingtravel.com
- Listen to Art of Selling Travel's Podcast
- Listen on Apply Podcasts
- Listen on Spotify
- Follow Glenda on Social Media:
- YouTube
- Facebook Group
👉 Subscribe to The Lounge by Travefy so you don’t miss Episode 2 in the Sales Workshop series, and share this kickoff with an advisor who needs a confidence boost today!
In this episode, we chat with Kate Thomas, Founder of Travel Pro Theory and Owner of North + Leisure. Kate shares her love for data and why knowing your business numbers is so important and how you can use to make important decisions about your business. Kate walks through how you can get started right away by setting up a simple spreadsheet and system to start tracking your business numbers, from what your clients are booking, how long they're traveling for, the commission you're receiving and more. Being able to view these numbers can help you make strategic marketing and sales decisions to help your business thrive and succeed.
Show Notes:
- TravelProTheory.com
- Visit Travel Pro Theory on Instagram
- Freebie: Revenue Forecast
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on August 22, 2024
In this episode, we catch up with Dave Natale, AKA the River Cruise King, whose business has skyrocketed since his last appearance on The Lounge Podcast in 2021! He shares the secrets behind his thriving river cruise group business, from using Travefy’s itinerary builder to crafting personalized experiences with city guides, movie and music recommendations, and more. Dave also reveals his top marketing tips and how he keeps travelers coming back.
Plus, hear all about River Cruise King Academy’s upcoming group cruise designed for travel advisors who want to grow their group cruise business!
Show Notes:
- River Cruise King Academy: Join on the Cruise!
- Travefy’s Podcast Episode with Dave Natale in 2021: “Leveling Up Your Business by Charging Fees with The River Cruise King”
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on September 3, 2024
In this episode, we dive into the essential legal risks, fraud prevention strategies, and best practices every travel advisor needs to know. Sheila Folk, CEO and Founder of Travel Industry Solutions, shares her expert insights on how travel advisors can navigate complex legal landscapes, protect themselves from fraud, and maintain financial stability. Learn why regularly updating contracts and privacy policies is crucial, how to implement effective identity verification tools, and the importance of charging fees for your services.
Show Notes:
- For more information on Travel Industry Solutions, visit https://travelindustrysolutions.com/
- Follow TIS on all the socials. Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on June 20, 2024
In this episode, get inspired as we chat with global keynote speaker and marketer, Tim Hines. Tim shares his “marketing starter” mindset and how travel professionals can leverage this to navigate marketing in their business and excel their business forward. From the power of consistency, leveraging AI tools, understanding customer needs, and more, Tim will help ignite the entrepreneurial fire inside of you!
Show Notes:
- Visit Tim’s Website
- Find Tim on Linkedin & Twitter (X)
- Get Tim’s book: The Marketing Starter: How an Entrepreneurial Spirit Will Make You a More Savvy Marketer
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on June 14, 2024
In this episode, Luxury Travel Advisor, Becky Lukovic joins us to explore the rising trends of women traveling together and the unique dynamics of women-led travel groups. Becky shares her insights on how women are shaping the travel industry, from popular destinations to preferred travel styles.
We also dive into strategies for women who own travel businesses to build a strong sense of community and ensure their business thrives. Tune in for an empowering discussion on women in travel!
Show Notes:
- Visit Becky’s Agency Site: Bella Travel
- Find Becky on Instagram, Facebook, & Linkedin
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on June 4, 2024
Join us as Attorney Jeff Ment unpacks the latest travel industry news, including DOT airplane refund rules and FTC non-compete potential changes coming later this year. Learn how these developments could impact your business and discover strategies to stay legally prepared for upcoming changes. Don’t miss this essential guide for your business!
Show Notes:
- Visit The Ment Law Group Website
Top Resources to Stay Up-to-Date with Industry News:
- Mark Pestronk’s articles at Travel Weekly
- TravelAge West
- Travel Report
- Open Jaw
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on June 5, 2024
Dive into the powerful world of social media with Owner of Haus Social, Amber Zakem. In this episode, she shares her essential tips for travel advisors, from choosing the right platform to leveraging AI for content creation. Whether you're just starting out or looking to stay ahead of trends, Amber's insights on using Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and other powerful tools will transform your social media game!
Show Notes:
- Visit Haus Social Website
- Find Haus Social on Facebook, Instagram, or Linkedin
- Social Media Examiner - Stay up-to-date on latest social trends!
Amber's Favorite Social Media Tools:
- ChatGPT
- Videoshop
- Capcut
- Co pilot
- Reels Templates
- Tiktok Templates
- Canva
- Meta Business Suite
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on May 31, 2024
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with the endless marketing opportunities and strategies you can apply to your business? In this episode, we chat with marketing educator, Mary Charleson, on how travel advisors can use her rule-of-3 packing method when it comes to marketing. Mary breaks down how to simplify your marketing strategy and best of all, make it all work together seamlessly. We also chat about current marketing trends and different ideas that advisors can apply into their own marketing efforts.
Show Notes:
- Visit FiveMinuteMarketing.com
- Visit Carry-On Queen Website
- Blog Post: Learn more about word-of-mouth marketing
- Sign up for Mary's Weekly Newsletter
- Access Five Minute Marketing Courses
- Mary's Trip to Machu Picchu - Part 1: Prepping for Peru (the Province) & Part 2: The Road Less Traveled to Machu Picchu
Mary's Book List:
- Marketing Rebellion by Mark Schaefer
- Known by Mark Schaefer
- Think Again by Adam Grant
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
- Imaginable by Jane McGonical
- The Algebra of Happiness by Scott Galloway
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on May 7, 2024
In this episode, we chat about the essential steps for travel advisors to establish their service fee structure with industry expert, Jennifer Jacob! Gain insights into tailoring fees based on niche, geographical considerations, and transitioning into fee charging for the first time. Jennifer shares actionable strategies to develop an objective approach rooted in expense analysis, time tracking, and trip complexity assessment, ensuring sustainable pricing for your business.
Show Notes:
- Get TIQUE’s Client Welcome Guide
- Visit TIQUE’s Website
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on February 27, 2024
In this episode, we chat with Morris Sims who shares how to create a proactive strategy to getting new and more clients to your business. Morris challenges conventional approaches and emphasizes the importance of crafting a compelling introduction. Learn actionable strategies for visibility across social media, email marketing, events, and personal interactions. Morris also shares his game-changing 3-List Process with us so be sure to grab a pen and paper while you listen!
Show Notes:
- Visit Travel Masters Learning Community Website
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on February 6, 2024
In this episode, we chat with Erin Novodvorsky, Lead Consultant at The Geek Travel Agent. Join us as Erin takes us through her journey in the travel industry, where she transformed her business by aligning it with her passions and expertise. Erin shares her pivot from selling travel that didn't resonate with her to focusing on unique niches such as pop culture travel. From movie and TV show-inspired tours to crafting K-Pop vacations, Erin found her clients and her calling. Her journey and insights will undoubtedly inspire and guide you towards discovering your own niche and standing out in your industry!
Show Notes:
- Visit The Geek Travel Agent Website (built with Travefy!)
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded January 8, 2024
In this episode, we chat with Roni Weiss from Travel Unity to explore how travel advisors can enhance their support for clients and each other by embracing diversity and fostering an understanding of differences. Roni shares advice on how to better serve travelers by including specific questions when helping to plan their trip and thoughts to consider when working with each client.
Show Notes:
- Visit Travel Unity's Website
- Follow Travel Unity on Linkedin
- Watch Roni's videos from his trip to Iraq (mentioned in the show)!
Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on December 13, 2023
Discover the ins and outs of S-Corps with Haylie Hardin in this episode as we delve into what they are and how to determine if your business is ready. Explore the advantages of transitioning to an S-Corp for tax planning, and get a quick guide on the actions you need to take to make the switch.
Show Notes:
- Download a Presentation Slide Deck of Haylie’s Tax Tips!
- Visit Go Hardin’s Website
- Connect with Haylie on Linkedin
- Listen to Haylie’s previous episode “Money Matters: Expert Tax Tips for Small Business Success”
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on December 13, 2023
In this episode we chat with tax expert Haylie Hardin about top tax-saving tips for small business owners, especially those who are new to understanding business taxes. We explore the practical strategies of saving money on business expenses and discussing actionable steps that can lead to substantial savings at tax time!
Show Notes:
- Download a Presentation Slide Deck of Haylie's Tax Tips!
- Visit Go Hardin's Website
- Connect with Haylie on Linkedin
- Listen to Our Bonus Episode with Haylie: "When to Take Your Business S-Corp"
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on December 13, 2023
What is wave season and how should you be preparing for it? Join us in this episode and Travel Advisor and marketing strategist, Rita Perez, will tell you how! Get ready for a big year of travel sales in 2024 and Rita will give you the tips and guidance on how to get your business, life, and goals aligned to create a successful year head!
Show Notes:
- Free Wave Season Checklist!
- Free Lead Generation Calculator
- Listen to the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast
- Join the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Facebook Group
- Full Podcast Episode Information
Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on December 6, 2023
In this episode, we chat with Stuart Marra, Founder and Luxury Travel Advisor of The Opulent Explorer.
Like many advisors, Stuart entered the industry fueled by his love for adventure and exploration. He shares his path to success growing his travel business, highlighting The Opulent Explorer team's one-of-a-kind services, such as a tailored travel planning workflow, how he's how he's incorporated his love for photography into his business, and so much more!
Show Notes:
- Subscribe to Stuart's Linkedin Newsletter
- Visit The Opulent Explorer Website
- View full podcast episode information and notes
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on October 30, 2023
Who doesn't love getting new leads and prospective clients to their travel business?! We chat with travel agency owners, Penny Cooper and Christina Viera, who have discovered formulas of success when it comes to finding new leads. In fact, they even created their own company Magic Made Simple, that specializes in helping advisors attract and nurture leads!
During this episode, Penny and Christina discuss how to approach a strategy you can implement into your business. They also share what generating new leads can look like by using innovative tactics, such as lead magnets and more!
Show Notes:
- Free Download: Lead Magnet Content & Delivery Ideas for Your Travel Business
- Register for Upcoming Sales Workshop Session with Penny & Christina
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on October 3, 2023
In this episode, we sit down with Harish Schroff from Indus Travels on how travel advisors can create and host successful events to market group travel trips and tours. Harish shares his pro tips and best practices on how to plan, market, and execute effective in-person and virtual events. Discover the art of engaging your audience and turning event attendees into enthusiastic group travelers!
Recorded on July 24, 2023Show Notes:
- Free Download: How to Plan a Successful Group Tour
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
In this episode, we chat with Kelli Hayes Smith as she guides us through strategic tips to set yourself apart from the competition (ahem, booking engines, we’re looking at you). Learn the art of crafting compelling narratives that highlight your services and how to set achievable goals to optimize your social media presence. Kelli also shares real-life inspiration and ideas from fellow travel advisors that can pave the way for authentic connections.
Recorded July 14, 2023
Show Notes:
- Listen to Kelli’s podcast Social Take Off
- Visit Kelli’s Website at https://kellihayessmith.com
- Find Kelli Hayes Smith on Instagram
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
In this episode, we chat with Tammy Levent, Travel Industry Expert on the ways she's utilizing the power of ChatGBT and how others can do the same! Discover the essential tools and software that unlock its power and the secrets of seamless integrations. Tammy also shares her own journey with ChatGBT and presents real-life examples, demonstrating how you too can effortlessly apply this transformative technology in your everyday travel business.
Show Notes:
- Use OpenAi's ChatGBT at chat.openai.com
- Download Tammy's "Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Travel Agent" by clicking here
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on July 20, 2023
This is episode, we sit down with Phillip, Co-founder of Rise Up Retreats about how he turned his passion of surf and travel into a growing business. We talk about the importance of sustainability in the travel industry and how he and his team leverages digital marketing and harnessing the power of word-of-mouth to attract new travelers and keep past ones coming back for more!
Recorded on June 27, 2023Show Notes:
- Visit Rise Up Surf Retreats: https://www.riseupsurf.com
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
“Artificial Intelligence”, or better known as A.I., has been growing in popularity since the start of 2023 and the buzz isn’t slowing down, especially within the travel industry! In this episode, we chat with Glenda Beagle and she shares what is A.I. is, how it can impact selling travel, and the ways travel advisors should be using and thinking about it.
Recorded on June 8, 2023Show Notes:
- Visit Glenda’s Website: artofsellingtravel.com
- Art of Selling Travel Instagram
- Open Ai ChatGBT (Website to use ChatGBT in ways discussed during the podcast)
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
In this episode, we connect with Grace McBride, Founder and CEO of Lucia, a freelancer marketplace for the travel industry. Grace shares the story of how and why Lucia was created and how it works for travel advisors and the travel industry. She shares success stories of how travel advisors have unleashed their full potential of their travel business with freelancers.
- Visit Lucia at https://www.letslucia.com/
- Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Recorded on May 23, 2023
Create FAMtastic strategies to make the most out of your FAM trips! In this episode, we chat with Anne Smith, CTIE, on how to harness and maximize the education and networking power of a FAM ("familiarization") trip. Anne shares what a FAM trip is, including the different ways it can be achieved, mistakes to avoid when attending a FAM trip, how to plan out marketing strategies before, during, and after a trip, and so much more.
Recorded on May 10, 2023Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Join The Lounge as we chat with Stephanie Louzil and Danielle Meyer from the Travel Anywhere Virtual team! Hear the story of how they started the company during the pandemic and how it continues to thrive today. We discuss how other travel professionals can implement virtual travel experiences into their business and create once-in-a-lifetime memories for clients...virtually!
Show Notes:
- Visit Travel Virtually Anywhere's Website
Recorded on April 20, 2023Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Grab a pen and paper for this episode! Gabbie Borgus, or better known as Gab from @thatguidedtravelgirl, shares her top five tips on how to not only increase your own social media presence but also how to decrease burnout from the social media. Each tip is crafted with the busy travel advisor in mind with actionable items you can start implementing today.
Show Notes:
- Gab's Instagram: @thatguidedtravelgirl
Recorded on April 5, 2023Start a free trial of Travefy at https://info.travefy.com/get_started
Join us on this special episode with Tamika C. Carter, Executive Director of Group Travel Academy! We set the stage for Travefy Academy's upcoming "Travefy Academy’s Grow With Groups Mini-Event" happening on May 18, 2023 (register for event here).
In this episode, Tamika shares an overview of what selling group travel can look like for you and your business and what to know before planning and booking your first group trips. From escorting travel groups to booking out cruise ships, Tamika explains it all!
Show Notes:
- Curious which path you should take when selling group travel? Take Tamika's free quiz here: https://www.grouptravelacademy.com/quiz
- Register for upcoming group travel session: https://academy.travefy.com/upcoming-webinar-series-travefy-academys-grow-with-groups-mini-event
Recorded on April 20, 2023
In this episode, we chat with Guida Botelho, CTIE, Senior Director of Education for The Travel Institute. We discuss how advanced education and the power of knowledge can be crucial for travel professionals growing their business and expertise, which in return can increase booking revenue! Guida shares not only the educational opportunities available through The Travel Institute but also how to decide which certification program is best for you and your career goals, and so much more.
Recorded on March 9, 2023 Show Notes:
- Visit The Travel Institute Website
- Register for Upcoming Webinar Session from The Travel Institute
In this episode, we chat with Jessica Pressler, Owner and CEO of Radiance Travel on how she began to pivot her growing business into the luxury travel space. Jessica shares how she's created her brand to reflect her own travel inspiration and elevate her client's itineraries and travel experiences into the luxury market.
Recorded on March 8, 2023
Radiance Travel Website: https://radiance.travel
Instagram: @radiancejess | @radiance.travel
Start a free trial of Travefy
It’s no secret that travel professionals are busy people when it comes to booking client trips, running their business, managing life and everything else in-between. In this episode, we chat with Travel Entrepreneur and Strategist, Roslyn Ranse, on how you CAN do it all! Roslyn shares her own story and what she has found to help her manage business and life by implementing systems, getting the right help, and more. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, and share Roslyn will share how and not break the bank doing it.
Show Notes:
- Upwork – Where to find people for small projects of ongoing, through a platform that has a ton of choice. (A great place to get started)
- Fiverr – Freelance services with costs starting at $5!
- The Travel Agent Achievers – Business Retreat in Fiji that Roslyn is hosting in November 2023
- Books that Roslyn is reading: Powerby Kemi Nekvapali & The Gift of Asking
- Travel Business Acceleration Program
Podcast Recorded on February 15, 2023
In this episode, we chat with Erin Carey, Founder and Director of Roam Generation, who shares insider tips on how travel advisors can unleash their media potential. Erin dives into the importance of finding the right media contacts, crafting compelling pitches, and staying top of mind with journalists and influencers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out in the travel industry, Erin's advice is sure to help you get noticed and build your brand through effective media outreach. Tune in now to learn how to take your PR and media game to the next level!
Join us on our latest episode as we sit down with Tesa Totengco, Owner and CEO of Travels with Tesa. Tesa shares valuable insights on the importance of immersing yourself in travel in order to better cater to your clients' needs and preferences. She also delves into the crucial role of finding quality suppliers, how you can plan your own FAM trips, and shares how she markets and inspires her clients to travel.
Recorded on January 24, 2023
Join Travefy Academy as we sit down with Sandra McLemore, industry expert and Founder & CEO of Travel Marketing & Media. Sandra shares her expert insights on how to set and achieve your goals for 2023 with her five tips for success. Learn how to stay on track and boost productivity throughout the year, as well as manage stress and maintain a business mindset.
Tune in to this episode for valuable advice on reaching your professional aspirations in the coming year!
Register for Sandra's upcoming webinar with Travefy Academy happening on Tuesday, Jan. 31 at Academy.Travefy.com.
In this episode, we chat with Ralph Iantosca, a luxury travel entrepreneur who discovered his secret to long-term success was charging fees in a different way. After being in the industry for over 30 years and dealing with the pandemic, Ralph decided his business model needed to change to accommodate not only his happiness but a growing and sustainable business model.
Ralph quickly discovered that creating a subscription fee model was his key and now he’s helping other travel advisors do the same! Ralph shares his story and what questions you can ask yourself to determine if this model makes sense for your business. The best part is, he’s willing to share his secrets and has created a curriculum to help educate other travel advisors.
Learn more about Travel Strategy and join the waitlist at travel-strategy.com
Join travel industry thought leaders as we look back at the last 12 months and discuss what’s ahead in 2023. We chat about where the industry stands today, how you can keep track of emerging trends, and ask our panel questions about what they see in the year ahead.
During this webinar, you’ll also gain insight knowledge, strategies, and hear real-life stories to help you and your clients prepare for a successful year of travel in 2023!
Panelists Include:
- Gregory Luciani, President & CEO at TravelOnly Inc.
- Eben Peck, Executive Vice President, Advocacy at American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)
- Lori Speers, CTC, Owner & CEO at Levarte Travel
- Emma Weissmann, Managing Editor at TravelAge West
View all show notes at https://academy.travefy.com/upcoming-webinar-live-panel-travel-industry-year-in-review-and-whats-ahead-in-2023
Sarah Bogaczyk was on the hunt for a career that not only fulfills her but also gives her the flexibility she wanted for her family. Enter the travel industry. Sarah discovered that she could create a business playing on her strengths and doing what she loves which is helping people plan travel and create memories. In 2021, she started Connections Luxury Travel and quickly became a million-dollar producer!
In this episode, Sarah shares her story with us and what has made her company successful so far, along with tips and advice for other advisors who are carving out their space in the travel industry.
Recorded on November 9, 2022Show Notes:
- Book that Sarah mentions during rapid-fire questions: Where the Children Take Us: How One Family Achieved the Unimaginable
In this episode, we chat with Scott R. Stout and Jimmy Zimmerman of FamilySearch International about how travel advisors can help clients create unforgettable travel memories with family heritage insight.
What if you were able to provide your clients with knowledge of their own family history on a trip you plan for them? Well, you can (and for free!) with FamilySearch International resources. It's one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to add a new element to travel and something your clients will never forget! Scott and Jimmy will share the ways that you can use these tools to help discover new connections for your clients and what the future of travel and ancestry can look like.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Search for Grandparent: https://www.familysearch.org/search/discovery/
- Search for Surname: https://www.familysearch.org/en/surname
In this episode, we chat with Emma Weissmann, managing editor at TravelAge West, about the amazing and helpful resources available to travel agents - and Emma would know. It’s in her blood, as her family started a travel textbook company for travel agents in the 1980s!
Luckily, so much is now available online (and for free) from Facebook groups, web content, email newsletters, and more. Emma breaks down the different resources available to stay connected to travel news, trends and building a successful travel business.
Go to https://academy.travefy.com/podcast-50-where-to-find-essential-resources-in-the-travel-industry-with-emma-weissmann-from-travelage-west for all of the links covered in this episode
In this episode, we chat with email marketing guru Nicole Barrett, Founder, and CEO of Espy Global! Nicole shares how email marketing has changed and what’s working today for travel advisors. We talk about how to create and grow your email list as well as powerful tools you can implement in your own business to captivate a new audience and engage with your current clients. Nicole also talks about how to create lead magnets and use voice and video to captivate your audience!
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Nicole Barrett's Instagram (@nicolesbarrett)
- Nicole's Email Address: nicole@espyglobal.com
- The Minted Lab
- The Minted Lab Instagram (@themintedlab)
- Bonjoro App
Join us for a special series of “How I Built My Business” where we get to hear from industry experts on how they created and are continuing to grow their business!
In this episode, we chat with Josh Rome who is a Travel Advisor turned co-founder and CEO of Runway Health. Josh saw a gap in the industry and wanted to fill it by giving travel advisors and agents an easy and simple solution to offer medication for their clients.
Visit Runway Health's Website: https://runwayhealth.com
In this episode, we chat with Travel Advisor Lori Gold, who has created a booming Facebook group dedicated to Resorts in the Riviera Maya. Since she moved to the Riviera Maya, she’s been able to be boots on the ground checking out resorts for clients, trying all kinds of excursions, and finding hidden gems. Lucky for us, she’s willing to share her finds and give advice to other travel advisors! Lori shares with us the most important things to know when booking Riviera Maya for clients while sharing some of her favorite spots and more.
Recorded on August 4, 2022
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Visit The Resorts of the Riviera Maya Facebook Group
- Membership: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/membership
- Classes: https://www.exploremoremexico.com
- The free Riviera Maya 101 class: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/offers/TTVY5LFE
This is a special episode because we converted a live webinar session that was hosted during New Agent Bootcamp on July 20, 2022. This webinar session was a ton of fun because we got to ask industry experts what makes a successful Travel Advisor. We cover various topics from what a new agent should focus in on their first year, trends they are seeing in the industry, how to make quick wins, and so much more!
The panel includes:
- Mike Foster, President at Nexion Canada
- Robin Sanchez, President at Your Travel Center / Montecito Village Travel
- John Werner, President & COO at MAST Travel Network
In this episode, we chat with Martin Mussey, Business Development & Education Manager of Nexion Travel Group, on how to best manage time in your life and business. He shares tons of insightful tips and tricks to better understand how you can use your personal strengths to build an ideal structure and schedule. Martin also tells us how we can apply these ideas to everyday life to create successful business practices.
In this episode, we chat with Martina Holbrook, Travel Advisor with You Pack We Plan about how she grew her TikTok into a successful (and fun!) way to generate new client leads for her business. She shares how she got started, what advisors should know about creating their own TikTok videos, what tools she uses and how she plans out her content. Did we mention she started using TikTok only six months ago and already has over 100,000 followers?!
Visit Martina's TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@mtinatravels
Happy Pride Month! In this episode, we chat with Independent Travel Consultant, Heather Murray and Travel Advisor, Kathy Estes on what travel professionals should know about specializing and booking travel for LGBTQ+. Throughout the chat, Heather and Kathy share where to find the best resources and information for LGBTQ+ travel planning and how to help the industry work toward a safe and equal industry worldwide.
Recorded on June 6, 2022
For resources listed in this episode, visit Academy.Travefy.com.
Whether you're in the process of finding a host agency or curious to see what else is out there from your own, this is a great episode for you! We chat with Steph Lee, founder of Host Agency Reviews, about the basics of what a host agency can offer you and how to select the right one for your travel business. There are many factors and questions to consider and Steph Lee walks us through them all, along with actionable guidance you can get right away.
Links from the episode:
- Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com
- Host Agency Reviews Survey: https://har.news/2022survey
- ASTA: http://asta.org/become (Use promo code HAR149 to save 50%)
Recorded on May 25, 2022
Join us for a special series of "How I Built My Business" where we get to hear from industry experts on how they created and are continuing to grow their business!
In this episode, we chat with Dana Rubin, Owner of Dana Rubin Casino Services and Dana Rubin Travel. Dana has been booking travel for over 25 years and started in the industry by helping to manage and book high-end travel for V.I.P. casino customers and then started her own business in the early 2000s. During our chat, she shares the different ways she's had to pivot her business and how she's taken advantage of the changes in marketing opportunities with social media.
If you’re a Travel Advisor in the U.S. you may have noticed an uptick in domestic travel requests in the past couple of years during the pandemic but it makes us wonder, is this a hidden niche that hasn’t been tapped to its fullest? In this episode, we chat with Travel Agent, Jennifer Todden from WDW Getaways on how she creates one-of-a-kind travel experiences for her clients traveling with the U.S. territories!
Recorded on March 30, 2022
Join us for a special series of "How I Built My Business" where we get to hear from industry experts on how they created and are continuing to grow their business!
In this episode, we chat with Co-Founders Jennifer Jacob and Robin Bradley on how they created Tique during the height of the pandemic and how they've continued to build its success. Tique was created to help Travel Advisors elevate their business with marketing, branding, websites, and more! Jennifer and Robin share how they started their business and spill the secrets to their success (hint: it has a lot to do with organization and work/life balance)!
Visit Tique's Website: https://www.tiquehq.com
Recorded on 2/25/2022
Join us for a special series of "How I Built My Business" where we get to hear from industry experts on how they created and are continuing to grow their business!
In this episode, we chat with Karolina Guilcapi, Founder of Sated Ventures who began to take her business to new heights during the pandemic. She shares the first steps she took to create her brand, what she's found that works the best for marketing, and how she leverages networking to find new clients.
Recorded on February 2, 2022
In this episode, we chat with Gina Bang, Director of Marketing at Avanti Destinations on what booking trends she's seeing at Avanti and how Travel Advisors can leverage this and market to their clients in the current climate. Gina also shares ways that Avanti Destinations has adapted during the pandemic by providing valuable resources for Advisors to share with clients to keep them informed and excited to travel again!
Visit Avanti Destinations Consumer Website: https://www.avantidestinations.com Visit Avanti Destinations Agent Portal: https://book.avantidestinations.com
Recorded on February 23, 2022
In this episode, we chat with Business Coach and Trainer of Online Travel Boss about the importance of a strong relationship with your suppliers. Sundey highlights how to find the right suppliers and how to maximize your relationship for a successful travel business.
Recorded on 1/26/22
Get ready for a big year on social media! In this episode, Amber Zakem, Creative Director of Haus Social is sharing her top five trends to watch for (and try for yourself) in 2022. She gives tons of actionable tips and ideas for you to use in your own business from new collaboration features on popular platforms, bringing a personal aspect to all of your posts, and so much more.
Visit Haus Social's Website
Find Haus Social on Instagram
Listen to Amber's Podcast Relationship Goals Recorded on January 17, 2022
Over the past two years, Azdean Elmoustaquim has been pivoting and re-focusing his business to continue capturing new client and agent leads while also nurturing travelers waiting to visit Morocco. During this podcast, we chat about how Azdean and his wife started their business from the ground up and what's on the horizon for not only their business, Destination Morocco but also what travelers can expect when booking their next trip to Morocco!
Visit Destination Morocco's Website
Listen to Destination Morocco's Podcast!
Join us as we take a look back at the last 12 months and talk about what’s ahead in 2022 for the travel industry. We gathered a panel of industry experts to talk about the pent-up demand for travel and what that means for travel advisors. During the webinar, we explore various topics from how to best handle travel restriction changes to capturing the right leads for a successful 2022.
Panelists Include:
- Angela Hughes, Owner of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
- Daniel McCarthy, Editor-in-Chief at Travel Market Report
- Luigi Nappo, CEO at VIT Travel
- Christy Shafer, Senior Vice President & General Manager at Allure and MTravel
As we quickly approach 2022 with travel's pent-up demand, now is the perfect time to make sure your mindset is in check and that you can reflect on the past year and build goals for an even more successful next year! We chat with Brandon Foster, Mindset Expert with Careers on Vacation on how to keep a positive outlook and grow your business to what you dream of. You'll gain lots of new tips and tricks that you'll want to start applying right away from this episode!
Visit Brandon's Coaching Website: https://brandonrfoster.com
Recorded on December 2, 2021
In this episode, we talk with Angela Hughes who has helped grow a successful luxury travel business and taught others how to do the same! We discuss the different marketing and social media tactics someone can apply while growing their luxury travel business. We also talk about how Angela continues to grow her business, how she pivoted during the last year, and what she sees on the horizon for the travel market.
Recorded on November 18, 2021
In this episode, we chat with Michael Savage, President of TIMA (Travel Industry Marketing Association), about what the marketing horizon looks like for travel advisors right now and for the next 6-12 months. With travel's demand rising from the pandemic, it's now more important than ever to have your marketing ready to capture new leads and nurture current ones. Michael will share ways that advisors can stay top-of-mind and be ready for travel's surge over the next year.
Visit TIMA's website: https://tima.travel
Recorded on November 8, 2021
In this episode, we chat with Sahara Rose De Vore on the importance of finding your own passion in the travel industry and how to set yourself apart from the rest. Instead of doing what the industry tells you to do, she challenges advisors to dig deeper and find their passion. Sahara also shares why this is the best time, more than ever, to find your niche in travel.
Recorded on October 1, 2021
Want a consistent flow of new and ideal clients in your travel business? If yes, this episode with maven, Heidi DeCoux is for you! Heidi walks through six amazing and unique strategies that Travel Agents can implement today. The best part is, all of these strategies are either free or low cost and you can implement them immediately to land new clients!
Recorded on September 28, 2021
In this episode, we catch up with Alvin and Keisha Adriano from Travelwise on how they’ve pivoted their business and expanded their marketing efforts during the pandemic. We talk about what the future of travel businesses looks like and how advisors can stay ready for the big comeback!
Visit Travelwise International at https://itravelwise.com
In this episode, we chat with Rick Rosenfeld who is an industry leader in travel risk management. Due to the pandemic, it's now more important than ever to understand the travel risks associated with international travel. Rick shares top-notch advice on where to find information and best prepare you and your client for any travel hurdle whether in the travel planning stage, getting there, or being at the destination.
Don't forget to grab a pen and paper for this one, there's a ton of great tips for all travel advisors that Rick shares with us!
While at Cruise360 in Hollywood, FL we were able to catch up with industry veteran Randy Goodrich, Travel Advisor and Co-Owner of Passport Online Inc. We talked about his career journey in the travel industry and how he helped to create a technology company in the late '90s.
We also chatted about the recent challenges the pandemic has created for travel advisors and hopes for the future of travel.
Visit Passport Online's Website: https://passportonlineinc.comRecorded on July 29, 2021
There is so much to learn in this episode with our guest, Dezaree Stack, Owner of Stack Strategies, a digital marketing service! She shares simple and unique ways that you can level up your digital marketing game with your website. Whether you're looking for new ways to spice up your digital presence or starting with a fresh new website, this episode provides great tips to consider when marketing and sharing your business.
Visit Stack Strategies' Website at https://www.stack-strategies.com
During this episode, we chat with Marco Fernandes from Sagres Vacations and learn what tourism is like currently in Portugal and Spain! Marco talks about what travel trends are happening in these countries and the most popular times that travelers are booking. He also shares how travel advisors can market and highlight travel to Spain and Portugal to their clients.
Recorded on July 21, 2021
During this episode, we chat with Sandra Weinacht, Co-Founder of iNSIDE EUROPE, and her daughter about their recent trip to Greece! They talk about what it was like to travel during Covid and what other travelers can expect while visiting. Sandra also shares how other Advisors can pitch and sell Greece travel to their clients.
For more information, check out Sandra’s Insider Guide at https://inside-europe.com/greece2021!
In this episode, we talk with Leah Greengarten, who has been working in the travel industry for over two decades. She started out as a travel writer, then a destination publicist, and most recently creating her own company during the pandemic. We talk about how she built her business and even how she incorporates virtual reality into it! This is a fun conversation you won't want to miss!
Recorded on June 10, 2021
In this episode, we chat with Lisa Fey who is a global speaker, author, and travel advisor who has done it all from working in corporate at Coca-Cola to studying improv! Lisa understands the importance of communication and how that can help to build stronger relationships with your clients and build a reputable business. She shares some of her tips to improve your communication and storytelling skills.
In this episode, we chat with David Natale, also known as The River Cruise King! We get to learn about his story of how he got into the travel industry and now has a successful river cruising business. During the pandemic, David quickly learned that he needed a way to scale his business and protect his time and energy by charging fees which led to a huge increase in monthly income. During the episode, we talk about how you can start charging fees and why it can be a huge game-changer for your business.
Growing your travel business in the current environment requires a heightened focus on making your business more efficient. In this episode, we talk with Sheila Folk, CEO of Travel Industry Solutions. She shares how to scale your current business, understanding the tools that can streamline everyday tasks, and more to help ramp your sales and profits, faster!
Visit Travel Industry Solution's Website: https://travelindustrysolutions.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/travelindustrysolutions/
Clubhouse Name: @TravelSolutions
In this episode, we chat about the future of travel and how to make sure your business is ready for the industry's comeback! We talk with industry veteran, business coach, and author, Geraldine Ree on how advisors can take advantage of this time before the world gets back to traveling.
Recorded on April 29, 2021
Visit Geraldine Ree’s Website: https://www.geraldineree.com/
In this episode, we talk to Erica Graham, owner, and operator of Paper Planes and Passports, and learn how she got started in the industry and how her business thrives today! She shares a glimpse into how she started Paper Planes and Passports but also how she's helping agents build their dream travel businesses too.
Visit Paper Planes and Passports' Website: https://www.paperplanesandpassports.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/paperplanesandpassports/
Traveling until no one is foreign is Global CommUnity’s outlook and they do this by inspiring once-in-a-lifetime family travel. During this podcast episode, we learn more about Global CommUnity and how other travel agencies can incorporate community-driven memories into every trip.
Visit Global CommUnity Travel’s Website: https://globalcommunitytravel.com/
Facebook: Facebook.com/GlobalCommUnityTravel
Instagram: instagram.com/nooneisforeign
Accelerate your marketing with a podcast! During this episode, we chat with A. Lynn Blanco, Host of The Travel Agent Podcast who shares her tips on creating an engaging podcast. We discuss ways that any travel advisor can start a podcast and why it can be an easy way to market and promote your business!
Visit Travel Agent Podcasts' Website: thetravelagentpodcast.com
Instagram: @thetravelagentpodcast
Clubhouse: chthefutureoftravel.com
During this episode, we talk to Courtnie Nichols, a luxury travel designer and CEO of The Compass Collective. The Compass Collective is a travel consultant company that helps to create diversity for a more successful business. Courtnie addresses the current problems in the travel industry and how we all can help to change it and make it more inclusive for everyone.
Visit The Compass Collective Website
During this episode, we talk to Dana Zificsak, certified travel agent and owner/business coach of Guts Grits Goals. Dana shares tips on how she stays motivated amidst a difficult time in the travel industry. She also shares multiple actionable ideas and ways that travel advisors can maximize their marketing and sales with clients right now!
Access the link Dana mentions in the episode here: https://www.gutsgritgoals.com/idealist
During this episode, Cyndi Williams shares her insight into this year’s unique wave season. We discuss her thoughts on what this year might look like and how you can make the most out of marketing yourself and travel.
Visit Careers on Vacation at https://wanderlustceo.com.
Find Cyndi on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram!
In this episode, we talk with Stephanie Goldberg-Glazer, owner of Live Well Travel Often about how she ended up in the travel industry and how she keeps her business thriving. We discuss different marketing tactics like the power of networking to growing your clientele and other tips for new or old Travel Advisors to implement into their business.
2020 has been an impactful year for the entire travel industry, but we’re hopeful for 2021’s big travel comeback! We hosted a Facebook Live event on December 7, 2020 and chatted with travel industry experts—from travel advisors to travel media—as we unpack what this year has taught us and where the industry is headed in 2021.
Expert Panelists include:
- Ian Elliott, TravelOnly
- Jamie Biesiada, Travel Weekly
- Margie Jordan, Jordan Executive Travel Service
- Jenn Novotny, Upon a Star Travel & Concierge
Have you ever wondered how Travefy became an all-in-one software for travel advisors? The story might be different than you think! The Lounge chats with two of the founding team members, David Chait and Scott Rutz as we hear how Travefy got its start in the travel industry. We also discuss some of the many business lessons they learned along the way to grow Travefy and pivot into the software that it is today.
Danielle Dybiec is a travel industry veteran. She started out building travel itineraries for tour suppliers and then founded her own travel agency, Nine Muses Travel. Danielle began sharing a weekly newsletter to market and keep in touch with her clientele but once the pandemic disrupted the travel industry in early 2020, her weekly newsletter became a connecting bridge to her clients. Danielle shares what makes her newsletter marketing unique and also the ways that she has had to pivot her business in recent months to accommodate travel safety protocols and travel restrictions.
Visit Nine Muses Travel: https://www.ninemusestravel.com/
In this episode of The Lounge, we talk with Jeff Pawid who has worked on both sides of the industry, as the advisor and also as the supplier. Jeff has worked with numerous travel suppliers and shares his favorite parts of working with advisors directly and what challenges suppliers can face and how to overcome those. We also learn more about Jeff and how he found himself in the travel industry in the first place!
In this episode, we chat with Debi Mitchell, agency owner and founder of Wish Upon a Star With Us Travel. She shares insight on how she grew her business to $9 million in sales annually and the lessons that she has learned along the way. Debi is always finding ways to better her leadership skills and talks about the importance and value of always growing so that your business continues to excel with you.
Visit Debi's Website at https://wishuponastarwithus.com/
In the midst of the Black Lives Matter movement, the Black Travel Alliance was formed in the travel industry bringing awareness to build a more inclusive and diverse industry. During this podcast, we chat with Kelley Woods, a founding member of the Black Travel Alliance and learn how travel companies and travel advisors can help bridge the gap between the current divide. Kelley also shares what it’s like running her travel business during the time of COVID and how she’s preparing for the future of travel.
Learn more about the Black Travel Alliance at https://www.blacktravelalliance.com.
Visit Kelley's travel agency website at https://travelingwithcuteluggage.com.
There's never been a more important time to support the travel and tourism industry through advocacy organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Join us on this episode of the lounge as we speak with Erika Richter , the Senior Director of Communications of ASTA to hear her outlook on the industry.
In this episode of The Lounge we talk with Evie Strange of Wonderland Adventure Company about how she's handling pivoting her business, going virtual and staying positive during COVID-19.
Learn more at: http://wonderlandadventureco.com/
Finding creative and fun ways to stay engaged with clients is key to creating loyal, repeat clients for years to come. On this episode of The Lounge we chat with Brandon Foster of Magic Lamp Vacations on ways he stays in touch with his clients and how he sees the industry starting to emerge post COVID-19.
Learn more at: https://www.magiclampvacations.com/brandonfoster
During difficult times like COVID-19 it's easy as a business to want to retreat or hibernate, Thomas Carpenter speaks into why it's important and how travel businesses can continue to engage with their local communities during difficult times.
Learn more at: https://www.huckleberrytravel.com/