Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Take the podcast survey: https://forms.gle/CeqJQkuZbEZ6jNeZA

Get the Black Friday updates: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/offers/view/1189130

Wave season is right around the corner, friends, and I'm walking you through my complete checklist to get your travel business ready for Q1 and Q2. 

We're covering five essential areas, from reviewing your 2025 finances and updating your legal docs to scheduling your marketing efforts and creating a strategic sales calendar. 

I'm sharing practical tips on everything from auditing your CRM to planning networking events, plus how to leverage your supplier relationships to crush your 2026 goals. 

If you're a newbie or just want to make sure you're not missing anything crucial, grab the free downloadable checklist I mention because we're covering a lot of ground. 

Let's get your business prepped so future you can thank past you when wave season hits!

Wave Season Checklist: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/offers/view/1160873

Prep for Wave Week: https://prepforwaveweek.com/register

Lead Magnet Workshop: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1189129

Questions this episode answers:

• What is wave season for travel advisors? 
• How do I prepare my travel business for wave season?
• How do I set financial goals for my travel business? 
• What should I include in a travel business sales calendar?
• How do I upsell travel insurance and excursions to clients? 
• When should I host webinars or cruise nights for my travel business? 
• How do I work with supplier BDMs to increase sales? 
• What are the best fam trips for travel agents to attend?
• How do I track expenses for my travel business?
• What SOPs should travel advisors document?
• How do I plan my travel business capacity for the new year?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Submit your podcast feedback: https://forms.gle/Gxf7A6AQFVAmzbEn8

The fastest way to see what’s missing in your marketing, and what to do next: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1187247

Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776

Group tours aren't necessarily out, but people ARE consistently choosing to go on cruises over them, and the numbers prove it. 

We're looking at some juicy stats from the AAA Cruise Forecast and Travel Market Report Outlook that show cruising is absolutely booming for 2025 and 2026. 

I'm breaking down the demographics of who's cruising, which destinations are selling like hotcakes, and the top lead generation strategies that are actually working for river cruise sales. 

Plus, we'll chat about how you can pivot your marketing to capture more of this growing market share before everyone else catches on.

AAA Cruise Forecast 2026: https://newsroom.aaa.com/2025/10/aaa-cruise-forecast-2026/

Travel Market Report's River Cruise Outlook: https://www.travelmarketreport.com/library/Outlooks/river-cruise-outlook-2025/index.html?page=1

Questions this episode answers:

• How much is cruise demand growing year over year? 
• What age groups are booking ocean cruises? 
• Are people cruising with kids or as couples?
• Where are mega cruise ships sailing?
• What are the top cruise embarkation ports in the US? 
• When is peak season for Caribbean cruising?
• What are the top selling river cruise lines?
• How can travel advisors increase river cruise sales? 
• What lead generation strategies work best for selling cruises?
• What supplier support do travel advisors need most?
• How is AI impacting cruise bookings and travel advisor workflow?
• Why are expedition cruises gaining popularity? 
• What marketing strategies should travel agents use for cruise sales in 2026?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

The fastest way to see what’s missing in your marketing, and what to do next: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1187247

Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776

If you want an inquiry filled Q1 and Wave Season, you need to start generating leads RIGHT NOW because the business you have three to six months from now is a direct result of what you're doing today. 

I'm breaking down creative ideas on where to find premium clients who actually value your time and services, from networking at fall festivals and charity events to creating your own speaking opportunities and client appreciation events. 

We're also talking about why you need to drop the budget travelers and DIY-ers, how to leverage LinkedIn when your time is limited, and the importance of re-engaging your existing client list before the holidays hit. 

Plus, I'm sharing some vending opportunities, partnership ideas with local businesses, and how to get visible in your community so people actually know your travel business exists. 

The time to plant these seeds is NOW, not when Wave Season is already here and you're wondering why your calendar is empty.

Join Host Agency Reviews for HAR*Wired: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week

Use code podfriend to get $25 off the Wave Season Starter Kit: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1157765

Questions this episode answers:

• When should travel advisors start lead generation for Wave Season?
• Where can travel advisors network to find potential clients in Q4?
• What fall and holiday events are best for travel advisor lead generation?
• How can travel advisors use podcasting to generate travel leads?
• What speaking opportunities help travel advisors attract new clients?
• How do travel advisors partner with local businesses for referrals? 
• How do travel advisors re-engage inactive clients before Wave Season? •
• Should travel advisors send holiday cards to past clients?
• How can travel advisors sponsor local charity events to find clients?
• What auction strategies help travel advisors gain visibility?
• How do travel advisors identify people of influence for partnerships? 
• What convention center events are good for travel advisor vendors? 
• How can travel advisors leverage business development managers for events?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

The fastest way to see what’s missing in your marketing, and what to do next: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1187247

Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776

Let's talk about some business fundamentals that keep coming up for travel advisors and agency owners. 

Whether you're brand new or you've been in the industry for years, these seven reminders cover everything from E&O insurance and legal agreements to charging fees with confidence and protecting yourself through clear client communication. 

I'm also getting real about what your services are actually worth, why you need to know your numbers, and some serious etiquette issues around copying content that shouldn't still be happening. 

These are the things that will help you run a stronger, more protected business while standing firm in your value as a professional.

Join Host Agency Reviews for HAR*Wired: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week

Questions this episode answers:

• Do I need my own E&O insurance as a travel advisor or is my host agency's policy enough?
• How should travel advisors communicate their process and boundaries to clients?
• Should new travel advisors charge professional fees fees?
• What is the value of travel advisor services for clients booking trips?
• What numbers do travel advisors need to know to run their business?
• Should travel tech companies charge for Zapier integrations with their CRM?
• What is Zapier and how can travel advisors use it to save time?
• Is it okay to copy social media content from other travel advisors?
• What are the ethics rules for using photos and graphics in travel advisor marketing?
• When should travel advisors call clients instead of just sending emails?
• Why do clients need to understand my workflow as a travel advisor?
• How much should I charge for travel planning fees as a new advisor?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Join us for this year's Plan Your Year Workshop: https://prepforwaveweek.com/planyouryear

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


Quarter four is officially here, and I'm pulling back the curtain on exactly how I'm planning October through December for my travel business. 

From setting holiday boundaries to prepping Black Friday offers and mapping out 2026 industry events, I'm sharing my strategy so you can use it as inspiration for your own Q4 planning. 

Plus, I'm dropping a major mindset shift about the difference between needing clarity versus needing commitment. 

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by all the choices or just want to see how another travel entrepreneur plans their quarter, this one's packed with practical ideas you can use.

Join Host Agency Reviews for HAR*Wired: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week

Questions this episode answers:

• How should travel advisors plan for Q4? 
• What boundaries should travel business owners set during the holidays?
• When should I start planning Black Friday promotions for my travel business
• How do I balance business goals with holiday time off as a travel entrepreneur?
• How can I find my ideal travel clients at professional conferences?
• How do travel business owners overcome decision fatigue?
• What marketing tasks should travel entrepreneurs focus on in Q4?
• What should travel advisors do to prepare for wave season?
• How do I choose which conferences to attend as a travel advisor?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


Hotel representation companies might be one of the travel industry's best kept secrets, and if you've never heard of them before, you're definitely not alone because I hadn't either when I first started in this business. 

We're breaking down exactly what hotel rep companies do, how they're different from booking engines, and why they could be the game-changer you need for finding those unique boutique properties that make your clients' trips unforgettable. 

Angelique Johns from Wanderlux Collection shares the insider scoop on how these B2B partners work as an extension of hotel sales teams, connecting travel advisors with stunning properties across Europe that you simply can't find through traditional channels. 

You'll learn how to leverage these relationships to differentiate yourself from other advisors, especially if you're doing a lot of FIT travel and want to offer those authentic experiences your clients are craving. 

Plus, we're talking about everything from marketing support to group bookings and why these partnerships might be exactly what your business needs to take things to the next level.

Check out Wanderlux Collection and their properties across Europe: https://www.wanderluxcollection.com/

Join us for this year's Plan Your Year Workshop: https://prepforwaveweek.com/planyouryear

Questions this episode answers:

• How do hotel rep companies differ from booking engines like Classic Vacations?
• Why do hotels hire representation companies instead of handling sales directly?
• What types of properties do hotel representation companies typically represent?
• How can travel advisors differentiate themselves using hotel rep company partnerships?
• What services do hotel representation companies provide beyond hotel bookings? 
• Are hotel representation companies only for luxury properties or do they cover other price points?
• How can travel advisors find and connect with hotel representation companies?
• What marketing materials and support do hotel rep companies offer travel advisors? 
• How do hotel rep companies help travel advisors save time on research?
• What makes boutique hotels through rep companies different from chain properties? 
• What unique experiences can hotel rep companies provide for travel clients?
• What should travel advisors expect when working with a hotel representation company?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


You're running a business, not a hobby, and it's time your operations reflect that mindset. 

I'm bringing back my conversation with Courtnie Nichols, the SOP queen who's built a travel empire using systems that actually work.

We're talking everything from AI-enhanced standard operating procedures to tech stacks that talk to each other through Zapier integrations. 

She breaks down exactly how she uses tools like Asana, Honeybook, and VacationCRM to create repeatable processes that let her team run the business while she focuses on growth. 

Whether you're drowning in manual tasks or ready to scale beyond being a solopreneur, Courtnie spills all her operational secrets including how to audit your workflow, when to hire team members, and why quarterly SOP reviews are non-negotiable for sustainable growth. 

Check out The Biz Huddle: https://www.thebizhuddle.com/

Questions this episode answers:

• How do you create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for your travel business?
• What tech tools should travel advisors use to automate their business operations?
• Should you hire independent contractors or W-2 employees for your travel business?
• What's the difference between Honeybook and travel-specific CRMs like Vacation CRM?
• How do you use Zapier to connect different business tools and software?
• What project management tools work best for travel agency operations?
• What should you document first when creating business systems?
• How do you train team members using SOPs and video tutorials?
• Why don't travel industry tools integrate well with other business software?
• How do you conduct post-trip reviews to improve your processes?
• What's the best way to organize and store your business documentation?
• How can travel advisors scale their business without working more hours
• What operational mistakes do new travel entrepreneurs make?
• How do you create workflows that work for both individual and group travel bookings?
• When is it time to invest in paid versions of business management tools?
• How do you build systems that allow your business to run without you?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


You know that feeling when you're doing all the marketing stuff but your business still feels messy and unfocused? 

That's because you're working forward instead of backwards, friend. 

I'm breaking down exactly how to reverse engineer your travel business by starting with your actual income goals and working backwards to figure out what you need to sell and how many sales you need to hit those targets. 

We're talking real numbers here, from figuring out if you need to sell 200+ luxury FIT trips or just 3 destination wedding groups per year to hit your goals. 

I'll show you why a $1,000 income goal actually means you need $1,620 in yearly income and $16,200 in sales, plus how to structure your business whether you're a Part Time Polly working 20 hours max or a Hustle Holly going for that six-figure year. 

Join us for this year's Plan Your Year Workshop: https://prepforwaveweek.com/planyouryear

Questions this episode answers:

• How do you calculate your yearly income goal as a travel agent?
• What is the difference between sales, revenue, commission, and profit in travel business?
• How much do you need to sell to make six figures as a travel advisor?
• What are the essential business expenses every travel agent should budget for?
• How do you determine your monthly sales targets as a travel agent?
• What commission percentage should travel advisors expect from suppliers?
• How do you factor in taxes and fees when setting travel business income goals?
• How many cruises do you need to sell per year to make $60,000?
• What are the best high commission travel products for maximizing revenue?
• What supplier partnerships should travel agents prioritize for higher commissions?
• How do you structure travel agent fees to cover business expenses and time off?
• What is the sales volume difference between mass market and luxury travel specialization?
• How do you account for vacation time and sick days in travel business income planning?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


Get ready for some real talk about building a travel business that actually makes money! 

I brought together three incredible travel advisors at completely different stages.

From a newbie who hit $500K in her first year to a seasoned pro running multiple businesses, they're spilling just a few of their secrets. 

You'll hear exactly how they're getting clients through word-of-mouth marketing, what tech they're actually using, and the biggest misconceptions about owning a travel agency. 

Plus, they get brutally honest about their biggest pain points, from figuring out when to hire help to managing clients who span the globe. 

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale past seven figures, these insights will give you that boost your business needs.

Judi Lombardi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judi-lombardi-25580825/

Leah Iudice: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-iudice-90806316/

Stephen Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sscott2378/


Questions this episode answers:

• What are the best CRM systems for travel agencies and travel advisors?
• How do travel advisors get clients without spending money on advertising
• What tech stack do successful travel advisors actually use daily?
• How to scale a travel business from $500K to over $1 million in sales?
• What are the biggest challenges facing new travel agency owners?
• How do travel advisors track commissions and manage finances?
• What is the best way to get referrals for a travel business?
• How much do travel advisors charge in fees for their services?
• What are the biggest mistakes new travel advisors make when starting?
• How to choose the right suppliers and partners for a travel agency?
• What does it take to become a successful luxury travel advisor?
• How to transition from employee to independent travel advisor successfully
• What workflow systems do profitable travel agencies use?
• What are the pros and cons of specializing in specific travel niches?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]

Send Rita a text with your thoughts!

Save your spot for Prep for Wave Week :) https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/prep-for-wave-week

Get access to over 2000 cruise video clips: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776


Looking for tour operators who aren't just another name on the major booking platforms? 

I'm breaking down the messy but wonderful world of finding those hidden gem operators who create truly unique experiences for your clients. 

We explore the blurry lines between travel advisors and tour operators, decode confusing industry terms like DMCs and receptive operators, and tackle the real challenges around payments, communication, and building trust. 

My guest Mitch Bach from Tourpreneur shares insider secrets on how to move beyond the big platforms and connect directly with local operators who can deliver those wow-factor trips your clients are actually asking for. 

Plus, we cover the homework you need to do before reaching out and the best practices that turn one-time bookings into lasting partnerships. 

Mitch's list of Tour Operator Terminology: https://tourpreneur.com/tour-operator-terminology/

Register for Tour Week: https://tourweek.travel/

Tourpreneur FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tourpreneur/


Questions this episode answers:

• What is the difference between a travel advisor and a tour operator?
• What are the different types of tour operators travel advisors should know about?
• What is a DMC and how does it differ from other tour operators?
• What is the difference between inbound and outbound tour operators?
• Why do tour operators prefer working directly with travel advisors instead of booking platforms?
• What insurance do travel advisors need when operating group trips?
• How can travel advisors build trust with tour operators?
• How can travel advisors find niche and specialty tour operators?
• What credentials should travel advisors look for when vetting tour operators?
• Where can travel advisors network with tour operators in person?
• What technology tools help travel advisors work with tour operators?
• What questions should travel advisors ask potential tour operator partners?

Enjoy (and take action)!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/

Say HI on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbs
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622

Direct EMAIL:
[email protected]