TIQUE Talks: The Business Podcast for Travel Advisors

Whether it’s for maternity leave, a medical emergency, or just a much-needed reset, taking a break from your business can feel overwhelming. In this highly requested episode, Robin and Jennifer share strategies to help you step away without losing momentum! They talk about how to prepare for both planned and unexpected absences, from building detailed timelines and communicating with clients early, to creating emergency plans and documenting your processes. You’ll learn why an abundance mindset is key, how to re-enter your business smoothly, and ways to make sure your finances can handle time away. Whether you’re facing a big life change or simply want the peace of mind that comes with being prepared, this conversation will help you put a leave plan in place that keeps your business strong no matter what life throws your way!

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Ever wondered what really goes into running a high-performing host agency? Keith Walden, founder of Departure Lounge, shares how he built a values-driven agency that empowers over 320 advisors across 13 countries and why mentorship, collaboration, and kindness are non-negotiables. With nearly four decades of experience, Keith reveals the secrets behind Departure Lounge’s explosive growth, what he looks for in advisors and partners, and how he’s blending innovation with human connection to build a business on track to exceed $500 million in annual sales.

About Keith Waldon:

A native Texan, Keith Waldon began his career in luxury travel while still in college in Dallas as an intern for Rosewood Hotels, where he continued his career as a marketing manager after graduating from Southern Methodist University. Keith later spent 16 years as a senior executive for the international luxury travel network Virtuoso, where creating the Virtuoso brand and elevating the awareness of travel advisors were among his accomplishments. With 27 years in the luxury travel industry, Keith launched Departure Lounge in 2013, first as a specialty retail storefront travel agency. Since then, the agency has organically grown into an international luxury host travel agency with more than 320 travel advisors reaching more than $340 million in annual sales in 2024. Keith was voted Most Innovative Travel Advisor by the Virtuoso network in 2019. He is honored to be featured on Travel+Leisure Magazine’s A-List of travel experts as a family and Italy travel specialist, and he serves on the magazine’s Advisory Board. He also serves on advisory boards for Marriott luxury brands, Hilton luxury brands, IHG luxury brands, Corinthia Hotels, Lindblad Expeditions, Truevail and the British Virgin Islands. Keith now calls northwest Tuscany home, where he is renovating an old estate built between 1550 and 1700.

[email protected]

DepartureLounge.com

Download the Launch Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/launch?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=podcast+traffic

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JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

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If you have ever felt like you’re the glue holding your business together or that stepping away for even a day would send everything into chaos, this conversation is a must listen! Jennifer and Robin are joined by seasoned business strategist, Melissa Franks, to unpack one of the most important and often overlooked pieces of sustainable growth: operational strategy. Melissa has even served as their own Fractional COO, guiding them through tough decisions and intentional enhancements within Tique. In this episode, she shares how to spot the red flags that your business is stuck in survival mode, the difference between running your business and being run by it, and how to build a business that scales without sacrificing your sanity. Plus, you’ll walk away with tools you can implement today to set yourself up for long term growth!

About Melissa Franks:

Melissa is a seasoned business strategist, Fractional COO, podcast host and speaker, and transformation leader with a track record of scaling businesses and driving operational excellence with a people-first approach that mobilizes teams for unprecedented results. A former Fortune 500 executive and OnCon Icon “Top 100 COO” Winner (2022-2024), she has led billion-dollar IT transformations, M&A initiatives, and revenue growth strategies, blending corporate expertise with small business agility. As the founder of On Call COO, she empowers female entrepreneurs by optimizing operations and increasing profitability with her knack for helping business owners break through growth plateaus, implement scalable strategies, and build profitable, sustainable companies. Passionate about women in leadership and business innovation, Melissa is also an advocate for high-performing women, helping them design lives they love while achieving balance and success. She is a strong voice for domestic violence awareness and family court reform. When not strategizing, she enjoys running, traveling, and cheering on her three sons at their sporting events.

melissafranks.com

instagram.com/melissa_franks

Download the SOP Template & Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/sop?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=podcast+traffic

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This episode wraps up the Client Experience Summer Series with a deep dive into in-destination management and post travel follow-up. Robin and Jennifer share strategies for setting healthy boundaries with clients while they're traveling, so you can deliver high-touch service without feeling glued to your phone. From crafting a powerful pre-travel email to offering in-destination communication as a premium service, you'll hear how to create a smooth client experience that doesn't sacrifice your sanity. They also talk through the best ways to gather feedback post-trip, including how to time your requests for testimonials and turn client praise into content that builds trust and attracts new business.

Download the Tech Stack Checklist: https://www.tiquehq.com/tech-stack?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+138&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Tech+Stack

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One of the most overlooked parts of the client experience actually happens after they say yes to the proposal. In this episode, Robin and Jennifer break down what to do the moment a client gives the green light. From confirming bookings and managing approvals to protecting your business and setting up a strong nurture sequence, they share how to create a smooth, streamlined journey all the way to departure day. You’ll hear how they built a system that blends automation with personalization, so clients feel genuinely cared for without you being glued to your inbox. They also discuss must-dos like travel insurance education, real-time communication with DMCs, and the importance of structured workflows and documentation. Whether you're refining your backend systems or elevating your client touchpoints, this episode is packed with strategies to keep clients informed, excited, and ready to book with you again!

Download the 5 Plug-And-Play Email Templates: https://www.tiquehq.com/emails?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+137&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=5+Free+Emails

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Creating a travel proposal is more than plugging numbers into a spreadsheet. It’s about telling a story your client wants to step into. In this episode, Jennifer and Robin share how to create proposals that feel like an experience from start to finish. Learn how to ask the right intake questions, tailor your recommendations with confidence, and choose suppliers that align with your client’s vibe while streamlining your backend workflow. You’ll also hear how to use itinerary builders and Loom walkthroughs to add a personal touch, plus tips for setting clear expectations, managing revisions, and keeping timelines on track without burning out. If you're ready to turn your proposals into seamless, sellable experiences, this episode is your behind-the-scenes blueprint!

Download the free Client Onboarding Guide: http://tiquehq.com/client-onboarding?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+136&utm_medium=Onboarding+PDF&utm_campaign=Client+Onboarding+Guide+Freebie

Today we will cover:

Also mentioned in the episode:

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Your intake call isn’t just a casual chat. It’s your power move. In this episode, Jennifer and Robin share why this second step in your client experience journey can make or break your ability to close the sale. They explain how to lead with confidence, ask thoughtful questions that uncover what your clients really want, and position yourself as the expert from the very first conversation. You’ll also learn how to use tech tools like AI to stay fully present while capturing key details without missing a beat. Plus, hear how creating a clear structure for your call helps set expectations, build trust, and make it easier to introduce your planning fee with ease. If you’re ready to turn more inquiries into booked clients, this episode is a must-listen!

Download the free Intake Call Guide: https://www.tiquehq.com/sales-call?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+135&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Sales+Call

Today we will cover:

Also mentioned in the episode:

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

In the kickoff episode of this year’s summer series, Robin and Jennifer take a closer look at the inquiry phase, the first step in the client journey and a powerful opportunity to set the tone for a high touch, personalized experience. Rather than viewing the inquiry form as just a lead filter, they reframe it as the beginning of the onboarding process. This attracts dream clients, sets expectations, and lays the foundation for lasting relationships! Learn how to design strategic inquiry forms that are both efficient and engaging, tailored to the unique preferences of different client types. From incorporating creative, emotion driven questions to using interactive tools like quizzes, this episode offers fresh ideas for turning a routine form into a meaningful brand touchpoint. Hit play and get inspired to elevate your client experience starting from the very first interaction!

Today we will cover:

1. (02:50) Understanding client experience vs. service
2. (04:50) Rethinking the inquiry phase; creating inquiry forms
3. (09:10) Tailoring forms to fit your audience
4. (12:55) Adding personality and creativity to your questions
5. (21:45) Setting expectations and creating boundaries early
6. (35:00) Using quizzes and interactive tools to vet for fit

Mentioned in the episode:

1. Episode 91: What You Wish You'd Always Known About Booking Airfare with Lary Neron
2. Episode 112: How to Create Interactive Content for Lead Generation with Josh Haynam

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

If your business is leaving you drained, this episode might be the reset you need! Lizzie Alex, Senior Travel Advisor and Director of the D.A. Luxury Travel team, shares how she’s helped build a business that works for her, not the other way around. She breaks down the systems, tools, and mindset shifts that have helped her create structure, avoid burnout, and deliver high-level service without being constantly “on.” From using platforms like Asana and TripSuite to outsourcing energy-draining tasks, Lizzie shows how efficiency and balance can work hand in hand. She also shares how setting clear boundaries (from office hours to package scope) not only protects your time but enhances the client experience. Plus, you’ll hear her best tips for rolling out new processes and fees with confidence and ease. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like your business is running you, this episode is the permission slip you need to build a business that honors your life, not just your to-do list!

Connect with Lizzie Alex:

With a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences, Lizzie Alex has made her mark in the world of luxury travel and event planning. As the Senior Travel Advisor and Director of the esteemed D.A. Luxury Travel team, Lizzie curates personalized and immersive journeys that push the boundaries of traditional travel. By understanding each client's unique preferences, Lizzie weaves together seamless itineraries that unlock access to hidden gems and "non-googleable" experiences. As a distinguished member of the 1000 Club, an elite collective of the world's most influential travel advisors, and most recently named as one of Conde Nast Traveler 2025 Top Travel Specialists, Lizzie continues to redefine the art of travel. 

daluxurytravel.com

instagram.com/lizzieealexx

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→ CLIENT ONBOARDING CHECKLIST: https://www.tiquehq.com/client-onboarding?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+133&utm_medium=Podcast+Shownotes&utm_campaign=Client+Onboarding

A streamlined, step-by-step process to wow your clients from the moment they inquire until they return home raving about your expertise!

Also mentioned in the episode:

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

What does it really take to build a high-performing team in the travel industry? Sarah Fazendin, founder of Videre Travel, spills it all. From solo advisor to visionary team leader, she shares the exact strategies that helped her scale with intention without sacrificing quality or cohesion. In this episode, you’ll learn how Sarah sets clear expectations, builds a strong company culture, and hires for more than just experience. She breaks down her onboarding process, her approach to outsourcing backend tasks, and how she keeps her team focused on what they do best: creating unforgettable travel experiences. You’ll also hear how she transitioned her advisors under one brand, fosters camaraderie, and screens for the right fit as she continues to grow. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at building a team that’s aligned, empowered, and built to last!

Connect with Sarah Fazendin:

Sarah founded Videre Travel in 2015 with a bold vision: to transform travel into a collection of life's most extraordinary moments. Today, she leads a powerhouse team of luxury travel specialists and a global network of elite partners, all dedicated to crafting seamless, one-of-a-kind journeys for discerning travelers. Before launching Videre Travel, Sarah spent nearly two decades at the forefront of luxury travel—curating high-end African safaris, collaborating with the continent’s top camps and lodges, and pioneering groundbreaking wildlife experiences that redefined the meaning of luxury adventure. Her expertise has earned her regular features in leading international media, including NPR's Marketplace and Bloomberg. Since 2020, she has been recognized annually as a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler, a testament to her influence in the world of luxury travel.

videretravel.com

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→ PLUG-AND-PLAY JOB DESCRIPTIONS: http://tiquehq.com/job-descriptions?utm_source=Podcast+Episode+132&utm_medium=Job+Description+PDF&utm_campaign=4+Plug+%26+Play+Job+Descriptions+Download

Grab these job descriptions, tweak them to fit your business, and start building a team that lets you step into your actual CEO role!

JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY

An interactive membership for travel advisors wanting the community, education, & support to grow their business.

VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP

Create an enjoyable booking experience for every one of your travel clients.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS

Self-paced style courses for the modern travel advisor.

FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ