The Tourism Chat Show

The Tourism Chat Show

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The Tourism Chat Show episodes

  • TRENZ Unpacked - Tips for Sellers from a Buyer
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell is joined by Luke McLeod from Tāpoi Travel for a deep dive into TRENZ from a buyer's perspective. Luke, known for his straightforward approach, shares valuable insights and expectations buyers have from sellers at the event. They discuss the importance of pre-show preparation, the key information buyers seek during meetings, and the critical role of follow-up after the event. 
     
    Luke does not pull any punches when he offers his advice to sellers - and share just how many DON'T follow up after the show.  So if you're looking to get the most from TRENZ this year, this is an episode not to miss! 
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:21 Introduction to Trends Unpacked
    03:53 Interview with Luke McLeod Begins
    05:44 Luke's Insights on Trends and Buyer Expectations
    08:50 Importance of Engagement and Research
    20:53 Maintaining Relationships with Existing Partners
    22:02 The Critical Role of Follow-Up
    26:42 Final Thoughts and Advice for Sellers
     
    ________________________________________________________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest

    Luke McLeod - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukemcleodtapoitravel/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    30 min
  • Let's chat about Growth
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell discusses the current state and future of tourism growth in New Zealand. Michelle introduces the Hon Louise Upston, the new Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, and highlights her potential positive impact on the industry. The episode delves into Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's ambitious plans for international tourism, examining the necessity of sustainable growth and the challenges faced by local communities in handling visitor influx. With insights into government strategies and the need for balanced regional dispersal of tourism, Michelle calls for a focus on value-driven tourism and sustainable practices to ensure long-term benefits for both visitors and locals.
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:44 Introducing the New Minister for Tourism
    01:37 Challenges and Opportunities in New Zealand Tourism
    03:29 Government's Bold Plans for Tourism Growth
    04:47 Local Concerns and Infrastructure Challenges
    06:35 The Need for Sustainable Tourism
    09:52 Strategic Decisions for Future Growth
    11:33 Call to Action for Tourism Industry
    12:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
     
    ________________________________________________________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    14 min
  • TRENZ Unpacked - Launching New Products at TRENZ with Hobbiton's Henry Horne
    In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell interviews Henry Horne from Hobbiton Movie Set and Tours. Celebrating the second episode of 2025, the discussion dives into the transformative journey of Hobbiton from its inception in 2002 to becoming a leading attraction today. Henry shares insights on the importance of trade relationships, the impact of the Tourism Industry event TRENZ, and strategies for launching new tourism products. He also provides valuable advice for smaller operators looking to enhance their trade presence. Listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at Hobbiton's growth, the challenges they faced, and their new offerings, including the premium 'Behind the Scenes Tour.' 
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:32 Introduction to TRENZ Unpacked
    00:55 Interview with Henry Horne from Hobbiton
    03:10 The Early Days of Hobbiton
    04:28 Building Trade Relationships
    11:52 Unexpected Successes and Partnerships
    14:34 Strategies for Trade Show Success
    18:53 Advice for Smaller Tourism Businesses
    21:34 Measuring Success at Trade Shows
    24:49 Future of TRENZ and Hobbiton
    27:56 New Product Launches at Hobbiton
    38:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell
     
    _______________________________________
     

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Henry Horne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-horne-17921bb1/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    42 min
  • Where Are They Now? with Guy Robinson

    This is our first episode in a series of 'Where Are They Now?' - chatting with tourism legends who have moved on. 

    In this episode, Michelle chats with Guy Robinson about his extensive career in the tourism industry, including his roles at Ansett New Zealand, Budget Rent A Car, and Avis Budget Group. Guy discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his career, his brief stints in various roles, and his current position at Ace Rentals. Reflecting on both challenges and memorable moments, Guy offers insights on resilience, the evolving tourism landscape, and the importance of diverse revenue channels. This episode provides a rich portrait of a dynamic career shaped by global events and industry shifts.
     
    00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings
    06:34 Guy Current Role and Location
    08:17 Tourism Career Beginnings
    09:28 Long Tenure at Budget Rent A Car
    11:41 Impact of COVID-19 on Career
    13:11 Post-COVID Career Ventures
    17:39 Skills and Resilience in Tourism
    22:57 Memorable Moments in Tourism
    28:57 Current Thoughts and Future in Tourism
    35:45 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
     
    __________________________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Guy Robinson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-robinson-58b8b619/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    38 min
  • A very Merry Christmas wrap - with Garth, Chambers, Adele and John

    In this special (and slightly chaotic!) Christmas episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle is joined by an incredible lineup of guests: Adele Marsden from New Zealand Educational Tours, Lisa Chambers dialing in from Cairns Adventure Group, Garth Oakden of Tongariro River Rafting, and John Gregory from Terranova Tours.

    Together, they take a light-hearted look back at 2024, sharing highlights like business expansions, awards, and personal milestones (weddings included!). The group doesn’t shy away from discussing the year’s challenges, including non-refundable deposits and shifting travel patterns.

    Looking ahead to 2025, the conversation turns to dreams of diversification, prioritizing self-care, and strengthening industry support networks. This festive episode wraps up with reflections on successes and aspirations for the year to come.

    Join us for laughs, insights, and a toast to the future!

    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:17 Meet the Special Guests
    01:26 Highlights of 2024
    04:19 Challenges Faced in 2024
    06:57 Key Learnings and Future Outlook
    18:51 Adventure Tourism Trends
    23:41 Responsibilities of Managing Young Travellers
    24:38 Trends in New Zealand Tourism
    26:03 Challenges in Tourism Funding
    29:34 Tourism Industry Collaboration
    32:15 New Roles and Opportunities
    37:24 Holiday Plans and Reflections
    42:06 Podcast and Future Plans
    42:53 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

    _____________________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Lisa Chambers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-chambers-84650a22/ 

    Lisa's new podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6atx31C8mNOqGMqTiRmEfN?si=dfba9152a9dc45df 

    Garth Oakden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garth-oakden-10ab6b21/ 

    John Gregory: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gregory-9a201452/ 

    Adele Marsden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adele-marsden-17a5603b/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

     

    45 min
  • TRENZ Unpacked - Mentoring Programme for Newbies with Craig Wilson
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show's 'TRENZ Unpacked' series, host Michelle welcomes Craig Wilson, a veteran mentor for the TRENZ new exhibitor programme. Craig shares expert advice for first-time exhibitors, highlighting how to prepare marketing materials, make the most of networking and formal appointments, and the importance of post-TRENZfollow-ups. He also discusses the mentoring programme, offering insights to ensure new exhibitors have a successful engagement at TRENZ. Tune in to learn valuable tips from Craig's extensive experience in the tourism industry.
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:21 Introduction to Craig Wilson and TRENZ Unpacked
    01:08 Maximizing Your TRENZ Opportunities
    01:30 Importance of the Mentoring Program
    02:26 Interview with Craig Wilson
    04:15 Common Mistakes and Tips for Exhibitors
    05:34 Trade Pricing and Networking Strategies
    10:46 Building Meaningful Relationships at TRENZ
    15:44 Success Stories and Final Advice
    17:25 Conclusion and Farewell
     
    __________________________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Craig Wilson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-wilson-46615210/  

    Quality Tourism Development - https://www.linkedin.com/company/quality-tourism-development-ltd/

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    19 min
  • The Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism - with Jacqui Lloyd
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell welcomes Jacqui Lloyd, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Cruise Association, for an insightful discussion. Jacqui provides an update on the economic impact of cruise tourism in New Zealand, highlighting the findings of a recent study conducted by the AEC group. The conversation covers various topics, including significant economic contributions, regional benefits, rising costs, regulatory complexities, and trends in the global cruise sector. Jacqui also addresses the challenges faced by the industry and outlines her priorities for 2025, focusing on data collection, government relations, and collaborative efforts to enhance cruise tourism in New Zealand.
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    01:18 Upcoming Episodes and Listener Appreciation
    02:43 Introduction to Jacqui Lloyd and Cruise Industry Update
    03:30 Economic Impact Assessment Findings
    07:01 Challenges and Future of Cruise Tourism in New Zealand
    18:29 Comparing New Zealand and Australian Cruise Industries
    20:06 Collaboration and Advocacy in the Tourism Sector
    23:07 Public Perception and Social License of Cruise Tourism
    25:00 Optimising Passenger Logistics
    25:22 Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism
    25:59 Funny Anecdote from Picton
    28:25 Trends in the Cruise Sector
    30:19 Accessible Travel and Immersive Experiences
    33:17 Innovations in Cruise Ship Technology
    34:05 Sustainability and Future Fuels
    36:46 National Strategy and Government Relations
    39:57 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook
    ___________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Jacqui Lloyd - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-lloyd-36490018/ 

    New Zealand Cruise Association - https://newzealandcruiseassociation.com/the-value-of-cruise-tourism/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    46 min
  • Embracing Gen Z - with Will Cannon
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle welcomes Will Cannon, an Experience Supervisor at Weta Unleashed and the 2024 Young Tourism Export Council Rising Star Award winner.
     
    Will discusses the significant influence of Gen Z in tourism, offering insights on how businesses can attract this dynamic audience. He emphasises the importance of sustainability, transparency, and inclusiveness in engaging Gen Z both as visitors and employees.
     
    Will also shares his journey in the tourism industry and provides actionable advice for future planning, making this an episode filled with valuable takeaways for tourism professionals.
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:25 Introducing Will Cannon: Rising Star in Tourism
    02:08 Will's Journey in the Tourism Industry
    07:51 The Potential of Gen Z in Tourism
    12:01 Engaging Gen Z: Insights and Strategies
    19:35 Brands and Trends Shaping the Future
    24:15 Creating Memorable Experiences at Weta Unleashed
    27:53 Final Thoughts and Advice for Tourism Businesses
     
    ___________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Will Cannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-cannon-568807323/ 

    Weta Unleashed: https://tours.wetaworkshop.com/unleashed/tickets/ 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    31 min
  • Leadership Lessons in Adventure Tourism - with Anne Newman
    In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle welcomes Anne Newman, the General Manager of Christchurch Adventure Park. Anne, recently named the Akiaki Emerging Tourism Leader at the New Zealand Tourism Awards, shares insights into her career, the challenges she's faced, and the strategies she employs to lead effectively in the tourism industry. The conversation covers topics such as crisis management, team motivation, and the future potential of Christchurch Adventure Park. Additionally, listeners are reminded about the closing dates for the TRENZ applications and are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring interesting topics and guests in the tourism sector.
     
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    00:29 Introducing Anne Newman
    01:08 TRENZ Unpacked Series
    02:23 Interview with Anne Newman
    04:53 Anne's Career Journey
    08:03 Challenges and Crisis Management
    13:46 Leadership and Teamwork
    21:24 Future of Christchurch Adventure Park
    26:14 Emerging Trends in Adventure Tourism
    29:14 Advice for Emerging Leaders
    33:20 Closing Remarks
     
    ___________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Anne Newman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annenewman1/ 

    Christchurch Adventure Park - https://christchurchadventurepark.com/ 

    To exhibit at TRENZ - https://www.trenz.co.nz/trenz/sellers 

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    35 min
  • From Switzerland to Start Ups - with Alex Diethelm

    In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle welcomes Alex Diethelm from Weekend Getaways and Dogalong. They discuss Alex's journey from Switzerland to New Zealand, her career in tourism, and how COVID-19 spurred her entrepreneurial ventures.

    Michelle reflects on insights from the recent Tourism Summit in Auckland, including standout speakers and the Tourism Awards.

    Alex shares her experiences in building her businesses, the challenges faced, and the rewarding relationships formed with tourism operators. They also talk about the rise of dog-friendly travel and Alex's public speaking journey.

    00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
    01:03 Reflecting on the Tourism Summit
    04:18 Introducing Alex Diethelm
    04:57 Alex's Journey in Tourism
    08:44 Starting Weekend Getaways
    10:54 Building Relationships with Tourism Operators
    15:52 Managing Two Websites
    17:00 The Rise of Dogalong
    19:34 The Birth of Dogalong
    20:29 Winning the Jury's Heart
    21:06 Getting Featured on Seven Sharp
    23:18 Facing Public Speaking Fears
    27:11 Tips for Calming Nerves
    32:46 Future Goals for Dogalong and Weekend Getaways
    36:12 Conclusion and Contact Information
     
    ___________________

    Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com 

    If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

    This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

    Today's Guest:

    Alex Diethelm - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-diethelm/ 

    Weekend Getaways - https://weekendgetaways.co.nz/

    Dogalong - https://www.instagram.com/dogalongnz/ 

    Vin Giang's Stage Academy course - https://www.vinhgiang.com/ 

     

    Resources and Links to connect with us:

    Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

    Say hi to us on social:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

    Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

    Website: www.destinatenz.com

    If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast 

    38 min

About The Tourism Chat Show

From the publisher's feed

Kia ora and Welcome to The Tourism Chat Show, your passport to the world of travel and tourism! Hosted by Michelle Caldwell, an experienced senior marketer in the NZ Tourism Industry, you will be taken on a captivating journey through the industry. Join us every Wednesday as we explore the insights, stories, and wisdom of tourism’s brightest minds and most fascinating personalities. Whether you’re an industry veteran, or just starting out, or you’re just curious about the latest tourism trends and tips, this podcast is your ultimate destination for all things tourism. So fasten your seatbelts, and let’s embark on this exciting adventure together!

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