All we hear about is AI this, AI that. And yet trying to keep up with all the changes can be overwhelming. Many operators are simply rejecting it outright, or knowingly keeping their heads buried in the sand.

So Mitch Bach sat down with Janette Roush, the "Chief AI Officer" for Brand USA, to ask a fundamental question: what are some practical ways a tour operator can get started using AI effectively for their tour business? This isn't a technical, advanced conversation, but rather a clear-eyed overview of the benefits of just getting started and a practical approach to do just that. It's a great first step for those wondering where to begin.

Janette is a master communicator on this topic, and everyone should follow her on LinkedIn!

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Registration is now open for TourWeek '25, in Charleston, South Carolina. A gathering of day tour operators, multi-day operators, DMCs, travel advisors, guides, tour leaders... all descending on the city to take tours, get inspired, book 1:1 partnership meetings, and of course make new friends. Learn more at tourweek.travel!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to AI in Tourism

58:51 The Role of a Chief AI Officer

01:00:19 AI's Impact on the Travel Industry

01:03:58 The Future of AI in Travel

01:07:08 AI and Pricing Strategies

01:10:10 The Evolution of SaaS in Tourism

01:14:16 Human Touch vs AI in Business Decisions

01:17:53 Getting Started with AI for Businesses

01:21:32 Mindset Shifts for Embracing AI

01:24:18 The Future of Work and Strategy

01:26:48 SEO in the Age of AI

01:29:30 The Value of Human Connection in Travel

01:33:06 Balancing Automation and Customer Service

01:37:38 Future-Proofing Your Business with AI

01:45:45 Common Pitfalls and Successes in AI Implementation