Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

By Stephen Ekstrom

Society & Culture Education Business Places & Travel

What's Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast about?

Business Class is a podcast for those looking to make a living in tourism and traveling well. We host smart conversations with interesting people who built satisfying careers in the tourism workplace. 

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Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast episodes:

06.25.2024
5 Critical Career Skills Learned While Waiting Tables
The following broadcast is an excerpt of a recent live lecture presented by The Tourism Academy's Stephen Ekstrom to a group of entry-level hospitality students studying hotel and restaurant skills to aid in sustainable tourism development of their communities, which...
06.18.2024
Work With A Purpose: Cassandra McAuley of MMGY Global
Join us for an insightful conversation between Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Tourism Academy, and Cassandra McAuley, industry expert and managing director at MMGY Global, as they delve into their unique career journeys and the transformative power of storytelling in tourism....
06.11.2024
Tourism Culture & Heritage with Richard Peterson
Richard Peterson, President of the U. S. Cultural and Heritage Marketing Council, shares insights on cultural tourism, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, community engagement, and visitor experiences. He discusses the intersection of culture and heritage in tourism, the evolving traits...
06.04.2024
Unveiling Springfield: A Journey in Destination Leadership with Mark Hecquet
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom delves into the dynamic world of destination marketing with a special guest, Mark Hecquet, President & CEO of the Springfield Missouri CVB. Mark shares his remarkable journey from...
05.28.2024
Out of This World Maverick: Exploring Creativity with Mary Quinn Ramer of VisitLEX
Join us on this episode of the Business Class Podcast as we dive into the fascinating world of destination marketing with Mary Quinn Ramer, President of VisitLEX, the destination marketing organization in Lexington, Kentucky. Mary Quinn shares her journey into...
05.21.2024
Stewardship With Doug Price of Visit Colorado Springs
An interview with Doug Price, President and CEO of Visit Colorado Springs, discussing his career journey in the tourism industry, sustainability efforts in Colorado Springs, key trends in tourism, advice for entering the field, and leadership style. He emphasizes the...
05.14.2024
Journeys of Authenticity: Insights from Destination DC's CEO, Elliott Ferguson
In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Elliott Ferguson, CEO of Destination DC, as we delve into the profound impact of travel on shaping our perceptions and fostering connections across cultures. Ferguson shares his perspective on the...
05.07.2024
Navigating Conservation and Commerce with Domenic Bravo & Stephen Ekstrom
In this captivating episode of the Business Class Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with the esteemed guest, Domenic Bravo, CEO of Visit Cheyenne, for an insightful conversation on destination marketing and navigating the complexities of environmental conservation and economic...
04.30.2024
How well do you know Fred Dixon, the next CEO of Brand USA?
In this podcast episode, Fred Dixon, the newly appointed CEO of Brand USA, shares insights into his journey in the tourism industry and his vision for the future. Growing up in the hospitality business, Fred initially wanted to be a...
12.12.2023
The Heart of Tourism with Tammy Canavan, CEO of Visit Seattle
Welcome to another episode of the Tourism Academy Podcast! I'm your host, Stephen Ekstrom, the CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy. Today, we have a fascinating interview with Tammy Canavan, President & CEO of Visit Seattle, a seasoned professional with...
12.05.2023
Journey Through Tourism with Tony Lyle of Visit Galveston
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, your host, Stephen Ekstrom, sits down with Tony Lyle, the Executive Director of Visit Galveston. Join them as they explore Tony's remarkable trajectory from a ski rep in Vermont...
11.28.2023
30 Under 30 With Karly Dwenger, Travel Butler County
Welcome to a new episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, where we connect with inspiring individuals in the tourism industry. In this episode, we had the honor of speaking with Karly, the Senior Marketing Manager of Travel Butler...
11.14.2023
From Art History to Destination Marketing: Kristin McGrath's Journey
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Business Class," the podcast that delves into the hidden stories and insights of the tourism industry. I'm your host, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO of Tourism Academy, and today, we have a remarkable guest, Kristin McGrath,...
11.07.2023
Journey into Travel PR: Unveiling the World with Julie Freeman
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy Podcast, your host, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy, embarks on a thought-provoking conversation with Julie Freeman, the EVP & Managing Director of MMGY NJF. Join us as we dive...
10.31.2023
US Travel's Geoff Freeman on Leadership and Industry Transformation
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, your host, Stephen Ekstrom, the CEO and co-founder of The Tourism Academy, delves into a fascinating conversation with Geoff Freeman, President & CEO of the US Travel Association. Get...
10.24.2023
Destination Insights: Unveiling Cincinnati with Julie Calvert, CEO of Visit Cincy
Join us in this captivating podcast episode as The Tourism Academy's Stephen Ekstrom dives into the vibrant city of Cincinnati with a remarkable guest, Julie Calvert, President & CEO of Visit Cincy. Julie's journey into destination marketing is a fascinating...
10.19.2023
Crafting Hospitality Futures: A Conversation with Dr. Robert Donato
In this enlightening episode, join us as we delve into hospitality and tourism with Dr. Robert Donato, Assistant Professor and Hospitality Program Manager at R. Motwani Family Academy of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Broward College. Dr. Donato, a New...
10.17.2023
Rebranding Destinations & the Heart of Tourism with See Monterey's Rob O'Keefe
In this episode of the Tourism Academy podcast, join your host, Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of Tourism Academy, as he sits down with Rob O'Keefe, the driving force behind See Monterey's remarkable rebranding journey. Rob, the mastermind behind "Find...
10.10.2023
Paul Ouimet: Journey through a Luminary's Career
In this episode, join The Tourism Academy's CEO & co-founder, Stephen Ekstrom, as he sits down with Paul Ouimet from MMGY NextFactor, a distinguished figure in the tourism industry, and explore his illustrious career's fascinating twists and turns. From aviation...
10.03.2023
Journey to TripAdvisor: Steve Paganelli's Insights on Travel, Relationships, and Making an Impact
In this episode of Business Class by The Tourism Academy, we sit down with Steve Paganelli, Head of Americas at TripAdvisor, for a candid conversation about his journey in the travel and tourism industry. While today, he's at the forefront...
09.26.2023
Stacy Ritter, Visit Lauderdale: When Tourism Meets Politics
Join The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Stacy Ritter, a dynamic leader representing Visit Lauderdale, a community of 2 million people speaking 147 languages. With a background in politics and a passion...
09.19.2023
From Childhood Dreams to Tourism Innovation: Cleo Battle's Journey
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast as we sit down with Cleo Battle, CEO of Louisville Tourism. Cleo's journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a dynamic leader in the tourism industry is nothing...
09.12.2023
Liz Bittner: Exploring Lifelong Learning and Unveiling the Power of Travel
In this captivating episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast, we delve into the world of lifelong learning and the transformative impact of travel. Our guest, Liz Bittner, President & CEO of Travel South USA, is a seasoned traveler...
09.05.2023
Embracing Heritage, Bridging Narratives: Visit Natchez with Devin Heath
Step into the fascinating world of Natchez, a city of captivating contradictions and profound history, as we sit down with Devin Heath, the Executive Director at Visit Natchez. In this illuminating Tourism Academy Business Class episode, we delve into the...
08.29.2023
"Are You A Good Person?" Brett Jewkes explains Values-Driven Leadership
Brett Jewkes, our esteemed guest lecturer for the Tourism Leadership Accelerator Program, embodies the essence of values-driven leadership. Throughout his illustrious career, he embarked on a relentless quest to align his passion with his purpose, ultimately finding a company and...
08.22.2023
From Vision to Vibrancy: Leonard Hoops is Transforming Indianapolis into a Tourism Powerhouse
Join us for an inspiring episode as we dive into the fascinating journey of turning a city's vision into a vibrant reality. In this episode, we sit down with Leonard Hoops, the visionary leader behind the transformation of Indianapolis into...
08.15.2023
Building Bridges of Inclusivity: Hilina Ajakaiye's Vision for Boston's Hospitality and Tourism
Welcome to the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast! In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Hilina Ajakaiye, a remarkable individual making a significant impact in Boston as Executive Vice President of Meet Boston. Hilina's journey began as an...
08.08.2023
Journey of a Destination Marketing Expert with Kristen Esposito, Brand USA Board Member
Join us on this captivating episode of "Business Class," hosted by Stephen Ekstrom, CEO & Co-Founder of The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org, as we sit down with a true trailblazer in destination marketing, Kristen Esposito. Kristen is not only the...
08.01.2023
Insights from Fred Dixon, CEO of NYC Tourism and Chair of Destinations International
In this captivating episode of The Tourism Academy Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom, CEO & Co-Founder, sits down with Fred Dixon, the CEO of NYC Tourism and Chair of Destinations International. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary career journey...
07.25.2023
Unveiling the Spirit of Travel with Bud Geissler, 2024 American Bus Association Marketplace Chair
In this heartwarming episode, join us as we embark on an incredible journey with the extraordinary Bud Geissler, an ardent traveler, and advocate for exploration. Bud's passion for discovering new destinations and connecting people through travel has made him a...
07.13.2023
Dallas: Inside the Vibrant Host City of the 2023 Destinations International Conference With Craig Davis
In this captivating episode, we sit down with Craig Davis, the visionary CEO of Visit Dallas, the official tourism organization responsible for showcasing the incredible diversity and energy of the dynamic city of Dallas. Join The Tourism Academy's Stephen Ekstrom...
07.11.2023
Collaboration and the Goodness of Our People: A Conversation with Alana Cooper, CEO of Discover Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana
Join us for a captivating episode of the Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org's Business Class Podcast as we delve into the world of collaboration and the inherent goodness of people with our esteemed guest, Alana Cooper, CEO of Discover Monroe-West Monroe,...
06.13.2023
Exploring Destination Advocacy with Jack Johnson, Chief Advocacy Officer at Destinations International
In this captivating episode, Stephen Ekstrom, the host of The Tourism Academy's Business Class podcast, sits down with Jack Johnson, the esteemed Chief Advocacy Officer at Destinations International. Join us as we delve into a deep conversation about Jack's remarkable...
06.06.2023
Visit Great Lakes Bay: Merging STEM Learning and Tourism Development with Michael Hensley
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Tourism Academy's Business Class Podcast! In this episode, we uncover the incredible synergy between STEM education and tourism development as host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Michael Hensley, a visionary leader from Visit...
05.30.2023
Decoding Human Behavior: A Conversation with Joseph St. Germain, Ph.D.
In this captivating episode of our podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with the brilliant mind of Joseph St. Germain, Ph.D., President and Partner at Downs & St. Germain Research. With an impressive academic background and extensive experience in the...
05.23.2023
Destination Spotlight: Mesa, Arizona with Marc Garcia, President & CEO of Visit Mesa
Welcome to the Business Class Podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of travel, tourism, and destination marketing. In today's episode, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with a distinguished guest, Marc Garcia, the President and CEO of Visit Mesa. Marc Garcia...
05.16.2023
Bruce Beckham: Transforming Travel For Good With Tourism Cares
Welcome to this inspiring episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the world of sustainable tourism and philanthropy. In today's interview, we have the honor of hosting Bruce Beckham, the visionary founder of Tourism Cares, a renowned non-profit...
05.09.2023
Backpacking To The Boardroom, Kristina Wilson Explains
"Whatever job you start in, especially in tourism, be a sponge - keep your eyes open, pay attention to what you do to learn things along the way," says Kristina Wilson, JD and Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org advisor. In this...
05.02.2023
Beth Gendler on Sustainability, Stewardship & Quality of Life
She's been able to "make a career out of selling fun." In this episode, Beth Gendler from Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism joins the nonprofit Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org Co-Founder, Stephen Ekstrom, for a lively chat. Beth shares her...
04.25.2023
Lifelong Learning & Leadership With Barbara Karasek, Paradise Advertising & Marketing
Like most on The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org team, Paradise Advertising and Marketing's Barbara Karasek comes from a family of educators. She's both a sports fanatic and an academic who values lifelong learning. As she puts it, "constantly learning from...
04.18.2023
Leadership Development with Dr. Eric Canny
Dr. Canny has nearly three decades of experience in higher education as a senior administrator as well as a faculty member. He is a faculty member at the University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education in the Doctoral Programs...
04.11.2023
A Reunion With Maura Gast, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau
Maura Gast, Executive Director of the Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau and former Destinations International Chair, met The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org Co-Founder and CEO, Stephen Ekstrom, nearly 20 years ago. They reconnect and share stories of how their career...
04.04.2023
Developing Leaders & Building Teams with Scott White, Visit Greater Palm Springs
Joining The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org's Stephen Ekstrom for this episode is Scott White from Visit Greater Palm Springs. Since 2010, Scott White has served as President and CEO at Visit Greater Palm Springs. Scott previously served as the Executive...
03.28.2023
Leadership & Community with Destination International's Don Welsh
Don Welsh, CEO of Destinations International shares the origins of his passion for this work, key moments in his career and lessons learned along the way. Business Class is brought to you by The Tourism Academy - harnessing the power...
02.21.2023
Traveling Reputations with Monica Smith, Southeast Tourism Society
"Your reputation travels with you," says Monica Smith, President & CEO at Southeast Tourism Society, in this conversation with The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org's Stephen Ekstrom. Monica shares memories of her favorite travel experiences, leadership advice and her thoughts on...
02.14.2023
US Travel's Nan Marchand Beauvois on Foresight, Growth, and Travel Crystals
Nan Marchand Beauvois is U.S. Travel Association’s senior vice president of membership and industry relations. She is also general manager for U.S. Travel’s Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations (ESTO). In this episode, she shares her story with The Tourism Academy...
02.07.2023
Building Teams & Looking Ahead with Ryan George, Simpleview
Ryan George has held one job in his time at Simpleview — a responsibility he took on when he founded the company in February 2001. As CEO, he provides strategy and direction for the company, oversees its growth and operations...
01.31.2023
Big Leadership In A Small Destination With Melyssa Reeves, Visit Vacaville
Growing up in the travel business, Melyssa never thought she'd be leading a DMO for 20+ years. Now, she counts destination marketing peers among her close friend group. In this episode, Melyssa Reeves from Visit Vacaville, and Destinations International Board...
01.24.2023
Business Psychology, Behavioral Economics and Brett Oetting, Visit Corpus Christi
With a background in business psychology and behavioural economics, and a love for Applebee's, Visit Corpus Christi's Brett Oetting, also a member of the Destinations International Board, shares his insight on growing quality of place, stronger teams, and more sustainable...
01.17.2023
Where Education Meets Innovation: Newport Beach With Gary Sherwin
A lifetime learner, passionate educator, and leader amongst destination marketers, Gary Sherwin, CEO of Newport Beach & Company and member of the Destinations International Board, shares his experience and hopes for the future with The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org's Stephen...

What's Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast about?

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Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast episodes:

5 Critical Career Skills Learned While Waiting Tables

Work With A Purpose: Cassandra McAuley of MMGY Global

Tourism Culture & Heritage with Richard Peterson

Unveiling Springfield: A Journey in Destination Leadership with Mark Hecquet

Out of This World Maverick: Exploring Creativity with Mary Quinn Ramer of VisitLEX

Stewardship With Doug Price of Visit Colorado Springs

Journeys of Authenticity: Insights from Destination DC's CEO, Elliott Ferguson

Navigating Conservation and Commerce with Domenic Bravo & Stephen Ekstrom

How well do you know Fred Dixon, the next CEO of Brand USA?

The Heart of Tourism with Tammy Canavan, CEO of Visit Seattle

Journey Through Tourism with Tony Lyle of Visit Galveston

30 Under 30 With Karly Dwenger, Travel Butler County

From Art History to Destination Marketing: Kristin McGrath's Journey

Journey into Travel PR: Unveiling the World with Julie Freeman

US Travel's Geoff Freeman on Leadership and Industry Transformation

Destination Insights: Unveiling Cincinnati with Julie Calvert, CEO of Visit Cincy

Crafting Hospitality Futures: A Conversation with Dr. Robert Donato

Rebranding Destinations & the Heart of Tourism with See Monterey's Rob O'Keefe

Paul Ouimet: Journey through a Luminary's Career

Journey to TripAdvisor: Steve Paganelli's Insights on Travel, Relationships, and Making an Impact

Stacy Ritter, Visit Lauderdale: When Tourism Meets Politics

From Childhood Dreams to Tourism Innovation: Cleo Battle's Journey

Liz Bittner: Exploring Lifelong Learning and Unveiling the Power of Travel

Embracing Heritage, Bridging Narratives: Visit Natchez with Devin Heath

"Are You A Good Person?" Brett Jewkes explains Values-Driven Leadership

From Vision to Vibrancy: Leonard Hoops is Transforming Indianapolis into a Tourism Powerhouse

Building Bridges of Inclusivity: Hilina Ajakaiye's Vision for Boston's Hospitality and Tourism

Journey of a Destination Marketing Expert with Kristen Esposito, Brand USA Board Member

Insights from Fred Dixon, CEO of NYC Tourism and Chair of Destinations International

Unveiling the Spirit of Travel with Bud Geissler, 2024 American Bus Association Marketplace Chair

Dallas: Inside the Vibrant Host City of the 2023 Destinations International Conference With Craig Davis

Collaboration and the Goodness of Our People: A Conversation with Alana Cooper, CEO of Discover Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana

Exploring Destination Advocacy with Jack Johnson, Chief Advocacy Officer at Destinations International

Visit Great Lakes Bay: Merging STEM Learning and Tourism Development with Michael Hensley

Decoding Human Behavior: A Conversation with Joseph St. Germain, Ph.D.

Destination Spotlight: Mesa, Arizona with Marc Garcia, President & CEO of Visit Mesa

Bruce Beckham: Transforming Travel For Good With Tourism Cares

Backpacking To The Boardroom, Kristina Wilson Explains

Beth Gendler on Sustainability, Stewardship & Quality of Life

Lifelong Learning & Leadership With Barbara Karasek, Paradise Advertising & Marketing

Leadership Development with Dr. Eric Canny

A Reunion With Maura Gast, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau

Developing Leaders & Building Teams with Scott White, Visit Greater Palm Springs

Leadership & Community with Destination International's Don Welsh

Traveling Reputations with Monica Smith, Southeast Tourism Society

US Travel's Nan Marchand Beauvois on Foresight, Growth, and Travel Crystals

Building Teams & Looking Ahead with Ryan George, Simpleview

Big Leadership In A Small Destination With Melyssa Reeves, Visit Vacaville

Business Psychology, Behavioral Economics and Brett Oetting, Visit Corpus Christi

Where Education Meets Innovation: Newport Beach With Gary Sherwin

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