In this inspiring episode of The Travel Growth Show, host Mark interviews Brandon Yaniz, founder of The Adept Traveler in Elgin, Illinois. Brandon shares his remarkable journey from tech entrepreneur to award-winning travel advisor, highlighting how he turned his visual impairment into an asset in the travel industry.

This conversation offers valuable insights into accessible travel, exceptional customer service, and building a successful travel agency from the ground up.

Episode Highlights:

- Brandon's inspiring story of starting a travel agency during the pandemic, driven by his desire to make his disability an asset

- The unique approach of The Adept Traveler in planning trips for both disabled and able-bodied travelers

- Insights into the challenges and considerations of accessible travel

- The importance of thorough trip planning, client education, and proactive problem-solving in the travel industry

- Brandon's success in winning prestigious awards, including the Magellan Award

- Tips for aspiring travel entrepreneurs on finding passion in their work

- The rewards and excitement of working in the travel industry, from learning about new destinations to helping clients have amazing experiences

In this episode of the Travel Growth Show, host Mark interviews Carolyn Johnson, founder of Welcome to Harlem, a tour company offering unique experiences in New York City's historic Harlem neighborhood.

Carolyn shares her inspiring journey from accidental tour guide to successful business owner, providing valuable insights for aspiring tour operators and travel entrepreneurs.

Key lessons learned from the episode:

- Start small and grow organically: Carolyn began with just a few tours and gradually expanded her offerings over time.

- Leverage local resources: Joining organizations like NYC & Company and ALLON provided crucial support and networking opportunities.

- Know your area intimately: Thoroughly research local landmarks, history, and interesting facts to create engaging tours.

- Focus on a manageable area: Design tours around 10-12 blocks to maintain interest and provide ample content.

- Engage with your audience: Encourage questions and create a friendly, conversational atmosphere during tours.

- Diversify your offerings: Carolyn expanded into producing jazz and gospel events, which helped attract more customers to her tour business.

- Support local businesses: Incorporate local restaurants and shops into your tours to benefit the community.

- Utilize online platforms: Partner with companies like Viator and GetYourGuide to increase visibility and bookings.

- Create educational content: Develop supplementary materials like games, websites, and podcasts to further engage your audience.

- Seek mentorship and guidance: Connect with experienced individuals in your industry for advice and support.

This episode offers a wealth of practical advice for anyone looking to start or grow a tour business, emphasizing the importance of passion, perseverance, and community engagement in building a successful tourism enterprises.

Dive deep into the underground world of Stark Caverns with Matt Naughton in this illuminating episode of the Travel Grow Show. Discover how this 75-year-old Missouri attraction has been revitalized under new management since 2017, offering a blend of history, science, and adventure.

From daytime historical tours to blacklight explorations and an underground escape room, Stark Caverns showcases innovative ways to engage visitors and grow a tourism business.

Key insights for tour operators and travel brands:

- Diversify your offerings: Stark Caverns provides multiple tour options, including regular daytime tours, blacklight tours, and an escape room experience, catering to different interests and demographics.

- Embrace your history: The caverns leverage their rich 3000-year history of human habitation and even their bootlegging past to create compelling narratives for visitors.

- Seasonal adaptability: Offer special programs like Scout camping and school field trips to maximize off-peak periods and attract diverse groups.

- Set ambitious growth goals: Stark Caverns aims to increase tours by 100% in the next couple of years, demonstrating the importance of setting clear, aggressive targets.

- Balance traditional and digital marketing: While billboards remain effective, the business is focusing on growing online bookings to reduce acquisition costs and gather valuable customer data.

- Prioritize customer experience: Stark Caverns' commitment to maintaining a five-star rating and being the top-rated cave tour in Missouri underscores the importance of exceptional service from first contact to post-visit follow-up.

- Leverage surrounding attractions: Located strategically between major cities and near Lake of the Ozarks, Stark Caverns capitalizes on its position to attract visitors already in the area.

By implementing these strategies, tour operators and travel brands can enhance their offerings, improve customer experiences, and drive sustainable growth in the competitive tourism industry.

Welcome to the Travel Grow Show, your ultimate guide to scaling tour operations and travel brands in the digital age. Hosted by Mark Lamberth, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Travel Marketer, this podcast is your ticket to unlocking seven-figure success in the travel industry.

In our debut episode, we're setting sail on an exciting journey through the landscape of travel marketing. Mark sits down with trailblazing tour operators and destination managers who have cracked the code to reaching and surpassing $1M in annual revenue.

Get ready to explore:

- Innovative travel marketing strategies that drive growth

- Techniques for harnessing the power of customer reviews

- Smart approaches to collaborating with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

- Insider tips on boosting direct bookings and reducing OTA dependence

Each episode of the Travel Grow Show is packed with actionable insights and real-world examples from industry leaders who've navigated the challenges of digital marketing in the travel sector. Whether you're a seasoned tour operator or a budding entrepreneur in the travel space, you'll find valuable takeaways to fuel your business growth.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind successful travel marketing campaigns, learn how to leverage digital tools effectively, and discover ways to stand out in a competitive market. Subscribe now and embark on a transformative journey to elevate your travel brand to new heights.

The Travel Grow Show – where travel marketing expertise meets business growth. Don't just dream about success – learn how to achieve it with every episode.