By Nicole Mahoney
5
107107 ratings
The podcast currently has 420 episodes available.
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Catherine Alonzo, CEO at Javelina and host of the How to Change the World Podcast. She shares why story and travel are two sides of the same coin and breaks down how we should approach stories when trying to make a change or social impact. We also discuss the stories we tell ourselves, the importance of internal and external stories, and why core values matter in the travel industry.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:Catherine emphasizes that stories aren’t just tools for entertainment—they are pivotal in shaping our understanding of the world. Whether it’s the narrative we tell ourselves internally or the stories we communicate externally, these narratives have the power to influence change. Catherine explains how stories form the bedrock of how we perceive and interact with the world, which is why they’re so important in driving personal and societal transformation.
Storytelling is an incredibly powerful tool In the travel and tourism industry. We discuss the connection between the vulnerability and richness of storytelling and the immersive experiences travelers are looking for. By creating compelling narratives, destinations can provide deeper, more meaningful experiences that resonate on a personal level with visitors, ultimately driving visitor numbers and community engagement.
Crafting Messages for Targeted AudiencesA key part of storytelling is knowing your audience. Catherine highlights a common mistake marketers often make— trying to reach “everybody” and why the story ends up resonating with nobody. Instead, she suggests focusing on a maximum of four distinct audience groups. This could include decision-makers, referral partners, and internal audiences such as team members.
Understanding each audience group’s motivations, psychographics, demographics, and needs allows DMOS to tailor communications to connect with potential visitors on a deeper level. This targeted approach ensures that the emotional core of the message remains consistent, fostering a strong connection with the audience.
Finding and Operationalizing PurposeWe discuss the critical importance of a clear “why” within organizations. As someone deeply involved in social change, Catherine believes that organizations cannot sustain a strong, meaningful culture without a well-defined purpose. For those in travel and tourism, this means clarifying why their destination or service exists beyond just economic gain. By integrating this “why” into daily operations, organizations can create authentic and compelling narratives that resonate with their teams and audiences.
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In this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jill Peterson, Founder and Chief Growth Strategist at Clover Insights LLC. We discuss how to improve your mental fitness and build positive intelligence, and she explains the differences between your “survival brain” and your “sage brain.” Jill shares why improving your mental fitness leads to greater happiness, increased productivity, and improved mental resilience.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:This week, we’ve got a real treat on the #DOTL podcast, as Jill Peterson Founder and Chief Growth Strategist at Clover Insights LLC. explains how to handle life’s challenges positively.
Jill describes how we can be the best version of ourselves and influence those around us positively. This episode is all about offering you practical strategies to improve your mental fitness for a fresh start as we prepare for a busy holiday season.
The Sage Brain vs. The Survival BrainJill introduces the concept of the “sage brain” and the “survival brain.” The “sage brain” encompasses positive emotions, creativity, empathy, and curiosity, which are so important for addressing life’s challenges constructively. On the other hand, the survival brain operates on negativity and judgment, housing nine saboteurs that seriously hinder our potential. Recognizing and managing these two brain modes increases happiness and productivity. By understanding our mental habits and overcoming internal barriers, we can unlock our true potential personally and professionally.
One of our key discussions centered around the concept of “saboteurs.” These negative mental patterns or behaviors act alongside an internal judge, sabotaging our growth and happiness. Jill identifies nine types of saboteurs: Controller, Restless, Stickler, Hyper-vigilant, Hyper-achiever, Pleaser, Victim, Avoider, and Hyper-rational. Each saboteur represents a strength overused. For example, the Controller needs to manage every outcome, while the Hyper-rational dismisses emotions, focusing solely on logical analysis.
Building Mental MusclesJill advocates for working out our mental muscles to combat these saboteurs. This involves recognizing saboteurs, using physical sensations to switch brain modes, and tapping into the “sage brain.” Physical sensations act like smaller moments of meditation, helping transition to a more positive mindset.
Jill describes the five tools in the sage brain toolbox: Empathy, Explore, Innovate, Navigate, and Activate. Regularly practicing Positive Intelligence repetitions (PQ reps) can strengthen these mental muscles, making it easier to manage life’s challenges without falling into negative patterns.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, Jonathan Kletzel, the Travel, Transportation, and Logistics Sector Leader at PwC, shares insights from the recently released PwC Holiday Outlook. This report examines holiday spending across various consumer segments and industries. We focus on travel trends for the 2024 holiday season and discuss the differences in spending among different generations.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:The holiday season is always interesting when it comes to understanding travel behaviors across different generations. PwC’s report revealed that Gen Z and millennials continue to invest heavily in travel experiences, prioritizing them over material gifts. In contrast, Gen X and Baby Boomers are more inclined towards convenience and practicality, seeking ways to make their lives easier rather than more exciting.
The study has also shown a fascinating mix of spending priorities influenced by economic pressures. While some consumers plan to maintain or even increase their travel budgets, others, particularly those feeling the pinch of the current economic climate, are looking for ways to budget wisely throughout the year to afford holiday travel. Interestingly, more travelers are opting to stay with friends or family, which shows that people are trying to blend making economic choices and having meaningful experiences.
Rising Importance of Digital and Sustainable ChoicesWe’ve all noticed the broader consumer push for sustainability, which is a priority for younger generations, particularly Gen Z. Airlines and hotels, are responding to this demand by offering more eco-friendly options and transparent information on carbon footprints. From water bottle refill stations in airports to eco-conscious hotel room services, the industry is making ever-bigger strides in meeting consumer expectations for sustainable travel options.
Preparing for a Successful Holiday Travel SeasonOne of the most reassuring findings from PwC’s Holiday Outlook is that the intention to travel for the holidays remains stable compared to 2023. This is great news for travel suppliers and destinations, as it shows there is still a steady demand. Jonathan also points out that there has been a significant decrease in concerns around travel disruptions this year. This could be attributed to suppliers catching up to post-COVID travel demands and improving operational efficiencies. Nevertheless, holiday travelers should still be prepared for potential disruptions due to factors outside the industry’s control, like weather!
Resources:Website: https://www.pwc.com/us/en.html LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-kletzel-256372/ Holiday Outlook 2024: https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/consumer-markets/library/holiday-outlook-trends.html
We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands, about the importance of being open, flexible, and courageous as a travel professional. We talk about knowing who you are as a destination, being true to your strengths, and why honoring history, culture, and people is a must for tourism leaders. Rosa also shares examples of several Cayman Island campaigns and how her tourism brand partners with lifestyle brands.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:An integral part of distinguishing the Cayman Islands is its commitment to offering tourists an authentic cultural experience. Rosa shares details of the collaborations with local artisans and highlights initiatives like the Caymankind campaign, which embodies the warm and welcoming hospitality of the Cayman people.
Rosa and her team held town halls to invite public input, helping ensure the community’s voice was clearly heard in branding efforts. Local tourism operators also played a pivotal role by having conversations with visitors. These initiatives ensured that the brand promise aligned seamlessly with the actual visitor experience, creating a cultural connection that left a lasting impression.
Strengthening Community and CollaborationRosa highlights her role with the Caribbean Tourism Organization, focusing on coopetition and shares examples such as partnership with the aviation committee, working towards enhancing travel options within the Caribbean to promote multi-destination travel. This boosts tourist experiences but also extends visitors’ stays in the Caribbean.
Rosa also introduces the “Dreaming Cayman” campaign, an initiative that aims to help the Cayman Islands stand out among Caribbean destinations with nature imagery. In a crowded market commonly showcasing sun, sand, and sea imagery, the Cayman Islands are carving a niche with unique, eye-catching campaigns. Targeted primarily at the family market, the campaign’s objective is to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, drawing attention to the Cayman Islands as a luxurious yet intriguing destination.
Future-Proofing Through Creative PartnershipsLooking ahead, Rosa discussed exciting partnerships to further enhance the Cayman Islands’ appeal. A significant collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue during New York Fashion Week will feature Cayman Islands-themed window displays, showcasing the destination’s unique charm to a broad audience. Meanwhile, a partnership with Gen Z influencer Mei Mei will capture authentic Cayman experiences via TikTok, engaging a younger audience through contemporary social media platforms.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m thrilled to dive into an inspiring conversation that perfectly embodies our brand promise—”impact through connection, community, and collaboration.” We’re exploring the transformative power of strategic planning and emotional connections in the travel and tourism industry with Colleen Onuffer, the Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance Partnership.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:Colleen Onuffer, Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance Partnership, shares a Travel Alliance Partnership case study on creating emotionally resonant, memorable experiences for travelers. She shares how TAP lives their value to create impact through connection, community, and collaboration when working with destinations. By focusing on emotional resonance, authentic community engagement, and long-term strategic planning, tourism professionals can create memorable experiences that leave lasting impacts.
When planning media trips, Colleen emphasizes the importance of creating experiences that resonate on a personal level rather than strictly adhering to historical facts. This approach aims to make the stories more meaningful and relatable. Media members were encouraged to find personal connections to Harriet Tubman’s legacy at an event honoring International Underground Railroad Month in Cayuga County. This strategy profoundly impacted attendees, fostering a deeper appreciation of the site’s historical significance.
Key Strategies for Planning Memorable EventsOrganizing an event that leaves a lasting impression requires careful consideration of multiple factors. The event in Cayuga County, focusing on Harriet Tubman’s legacy, was a perfect example. Attendees experienced a driving tour of Underground Railroad stops, met with Tubman’s descendants, and engaged with local black-owned businesses. Such thoughtful planning ensured that participants learned about history and felt its emotional weight and relevance today.
Community engagement was a cornerstone of the Cayuga County event. The involvement of local leaders, business owners, and Tubman’s relatives forged a genuine connection between the media members and the community. This collaborative spirit enriched the event and promoted future media relationships, ensuring that Tubman’s legacy continues to be celebrated and preserved.
Feedback and Its Role in Shaping Future StrategiesEvent attendees’ feedback highlighted the Cayuga County trip’s emotional resonance and transformative impact. Testimonials revealed some amazingly memorable experiences and how people connected to African American history. This invaluable feedback guided future event planning, emphasizing the significance of emotional ties and engaging storytelling in conveying a destination’s essence and personality.
We also discussed the concept of “cathedral thinking,” which involves planning long-term projects designed to create lasting impacts. Just as medieval cathedrals were built to outlast their creators, the initiatives led by Travel Alliance Partnership aim to transform destinations sustainably rather than being a flash in the pan.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Todd Read, Senior Tourism Manager at SoIN Tourism, who shares more about the importance of building relationships for professional growth. Todd discusses the challenges SoIN has faced and how they have overcome them by creating strong partnerships. We also talk about hosting a travel conference in a small destination, what you should consider, and how to pull it off.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:Todd shares the transformative impact of hosting the Tap Dance event on the local community. The initial response to the Tap Dance event was overwhelmingly positive, and the community saw firsthand how well-executed events could boost tourism and economic activity. This realization translated into increased support and enthusiasm for hosting more events in the future.
Hosting events in state parks or historic sites often comes with stringent restrictions, such as limitations on serving alcohol. Todd and his team successfully navigated and managed these logistics, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of such events, thus paving the way for more flexible regulations in the future.
The Importance of Collaboration and Community SupportTodd talks more about the critical role of collaboration and support from all stakeholders and how his executive director and team were instrumental in the success of the Tap Dance event. SoIN’s partnership with organizations like the Travel Alliance Partnership and the Indiana Foodways Alliance also shows how collaborative efforts can really boost a region’s tourist appeal. Todd discusses the Indiana Foodways Alliance and its efforts to promote local, non-corporate restaurants through culinary trails. With over 300 participating establishments and 21 unique trails, such as “Winner Winner Chicken Dinner” and the “Pork Tenderloin Trail,” the Alliance supports and showcases the state’s amazing culinary offerings.
Addressing Challenges and Embracing ResilienceFrom the negative impact of COVID-19 to the controversies surrounding the Religious Freedom and Restoration Act (RFRA) in Indiana, SoIN’s resilience and willingness to innovate have been key to successfully overcoming these challenges.
Southern Indiana’s rebranding from the Sunny Side of Louisville to SoIN in 2016 is a testament to creative problem-solving in response to being overshadowed by popular neighboring destinations. The new brand, SoIN, not only differentiated the region but also generated a strong sense of community identity and recognition.
Despite funding cuts post-COVID, Todd and his colleagues managed to maintain momentum through collaborations with other tourism leaders. Initiatives like “Tour on 64,” aimed at highlighting attractions along Interstate 64, demonstrate the power of regional coopetition in sustaining tourism marketing efforts.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kristi Gole, EVP of Strategy at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), about the importance of collaboration and how the alliance helps these hotels compete against the world’s largest brands. Kristi shares examples of brand partnerships that GHA’s loyalty program has allowed them to start with complementary luxury brands, and she gives us a great formula for evaluating partnership opportunities.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:Formed in 2004, GHA’s mission was to aid independent hotels in competing globally against large hotel chains. Today, it’s the largest alliance of independent hotel brands, comprising 40 brands and 800 hotels across 100 countries. This alliance offers a collaborative platform for these brands to share resources, best practices, and cross-promote services.
The alliance provides tools and platforms for independent hotels to remain authentic while benefiting from a larger network. This unique value proposition has enabled GHA member hotels to retain their independence and character while being part of a valuable global support system.
How Strategic Partnerships Elevate the Customer ExperienceA core aspect of GHA’s strategy is building deep, strategic partnerships that enhance customer offerings. The collaboration with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, for example, attracted high-net-worth customers by offering Discovery Dollars usable at hotels. Launched publicly in 2010, the GHA Discovery loyalty program was designed to provide customer value, encourage cross-promotion, and increase bookings through profitable channels.
In 2021, GHA revamped the loyalty program into “Discovery 2.0,” transitioning from a points-based system to a cash-back model called “Discovery Dollars.” This shift aimed to make rewards more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
Scaling and Innovating for the FutureGHA plans to continue expanding and iterating on the Discovery Dollar currency. With a goal of reaching 100 million members, the focus remains on signing new brands and growing their partnership network. Kristi emphasized the importance of aligning with partners with a similar mindset and targeting the same luxury segment. She shares why GHA looks for partners who are agile, entrepreneurial, and approachable.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with James R. Ferrara, Co-Founder & President of InteleTravel, about how the business navigated the pandemic, adapted to the shifting preferences of younger travelers, and strategically expanded their services. James also shares more about the company’s commitment to promoting mindful and sustainable travel practices and why travel advisors should encourage their clients to explore lesser-known destinations.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:The role of the travel advisor has undergone a remarkable transformation, and on the show, James Ferrara, the President of Inteletravel, shares his insights on this evolution. He explains that the company’s independent contractor model, pioneered in the early 90s, has evolved from a predominantly part-time role to a more entrepreneurial full-time business.
James credits Inteletravel’s success to an unwavering commitment to education and professional development. He details the company’s robust training programs, supplier partnerships, and annual conventions, which equip their 120,000 independent contractors with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the industry.
Navigating the Pandemic and the Boom in TravelThe travel industry has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years, but Inteletravel made a quick recovery from the pandemic. James credits its innovative management team and its travel advisors’ focus on building on existing relationships.
We discuss the “revenge travel” phenomenon and the shift in travel priorities, particularly among younger generations. James notes that we’re seeing huge growth in Gen Y and Gen Z travelers, and this demographic shift has fueled a renewed appreciation for the value that travel advisors can provide as younger travelers seek out personalized guidance and expertise.
Promoting Mindful and Sustainable TravelJames emphasizes the importance of responsible and sustainable travel practices as the travel industry evolves. He talks about the “No Tourists Allowed” podcast, where he and his co-host explore ways to travel more mindfully and promote unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations. We dig into why it’s also better for the customers’ experience to get them out of these overcrowded tourism centers worldwide.
By encouraging travel advisors to guide clients towards lesser-known destinations and experiences, Inteletravel is actively working to mitigate the impact of over-tourism and foster a more sustainable travel ecosystem.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to enhance and personalize customer experiences.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:One of the standout applications of AI in travel is providing highly personalized travel recommendations. With AI-driven search capabilities, users can ask detailed, nuanced questions in natural language and receive tailor-made responses. Using AI allows travel agents to deliver gold-standard service by giving them comprehensive, instant knowledge about destinations that cater to their travelers’ particular needs.
Anna explains how AI tools allow you to automate various service tasks to ensure smooth and efficient operations—including making dynamic changes such as reallocating resources in response to travel disruptions to give your clients the best experience possible even when things are quite going to plan.
How AI Can Work for Smaller Tour OperatorsAI can revolutionize small travel brands’ operations by providing personalized, scalable solutions that were previously only accessible to larger companies with significant resources. These AI-powered tools can help smaller operators manage bookings, optimize travel itineraries, and offer tailored experiences to customers. By implementing AI-driven intent-driven search capabilities, smaller tour operators can provide a user-friendly experience that intuitively answers customer queries in a natural, conversational manner, dramatically increasing customer satisfaction and engagement. This allows operators to offer recommendations tailored to individual needs, such as suggesting local attractions, dining options, or accommodations that align with a traveler’s interests.
Future Proofing and CollaborationAnna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to enhance and personalize customer experiences.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted rail travel to independent itineraries and river cruises.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:Rail travel is more than just a means of transportation; it is an experience that offers travelers a unique perspective of the world. On the podcast, Liz shares why the slow travel movement is gaining traction, with more travelers seeking to immerse themselves fully in their journeys rather than rushing from one destination to the next.
To provide U.S. travelers with truly immersive experiences, Vacations by Rail focuses on multi-country tours that allow people to explore the cultural and natural landscapes of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. These tours are designed to offer more than just a visit to various locations; they aim to create long-lasting memories through well-curated, in-depth experiences.
Promoting Sustainability Through Rail TravelSustainability in travel is increasingly important, and rail journeys are inherently more eco-friendly compared to other modes of travel. Liz shares how rail travel supports economic and community sustainability, particularly in small towns and communities along the routes. This sustainable practice not only reduces environmental impacts but also boosts local economies.
Collaboration OpportunitiesCollaboration is at the heart of Vacations by Rail’s strategy, especially after its acquisition by Great Rail Journeys in 2019. This partnership has maximized expertise from different markets and fostered a collaborative environment where teams can innovate and share best practices. Liz also discusses the continued importance of networking and building relationships within the travel industry to drive creative change and growth.
Resources:We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
The podcast currently has 420 episodes available.
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