TravelPulse Podcast

This week, I welcome Barb Strait, owner of Straight Away Travel and Pickleball in Paradise, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the World Cup kicking off, record sargassum in the Caribbean, and much more. 

Later, Strait provides insights on how finding your niche in travel can lead to big revenue. She shares her story of first starting in travel by selling only Disney, and how she's found success in the Pickleball niche. Strait closes with tips on what fellow advisors should focus on when diving into niche travel. 

The discussion on niche travel begins after the 15-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: Brendan Vacations

Your clients are dreaming of Ireland and Scotland. Brendan Vacations has been turning those dreams into unforgettable journeys for over 55 years, from private driver experiences and castle stays to self-drive adventures and intimate small group tours. And right now, advisors can earn an exclusive incentive on every booking. Don't miss it. Visit brendanvacations.com/traveladvisors to learn more.

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Adam Duckworth, President and Founder of Travelmation, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a controversial proposal from the Trump Administration, Royal Caribbean being rejected by Mexico, and more. 

Later, Duckworth shares his thoughts on the top trends and surprises he's seeing this summer travel season, as well as how much prices are impacting decisions. Duckworth also provides tips for travel advisors to improve their business and make it their best summer ever. 

The discussion on summer travel begins after the 19-minute mark.  

Today's episode sponsor: Tourism Cares

Are you ready to use travel as a force for good? Tourism Cares is a global nonprofit helping the travel industry turn sustainability into real, measurable action for communities –  and your clients. With free resources and industry programs, Tourism Cares helps you take practical steps toward a more responsible travel business. Because doing good isn’t a trend –  it’s the future of travel. Visit TourismCares.org to learn more and become a member today.

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Lesley Sawhook, owner of Exclusive Travel Partners, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the hantavirus stories dominating headlines, plus summer travel prices and more. 

Later, Sawhook and I dive into the biggest pain points impacting travel advisors today. From tough clients to uncertainty in the world to chasing commission to onboarding new team members and more, Sawhook shares her insights and advice for fellow travel advisors to grow, learn, and improve their business. 

The discussion on travel advisor pain points begins at the 15-minute mark.  

Today's episode sponsor: Tourism Cares

Are you ready to use travel as a force for good? Tourism Cares is a global nonprofit helping the travel industry turn sustainability into real, measurable action for communities –  and your clients. With free resources and industry programs, Tourism Cares helps you take practical steps toward a more responsible travel business. Because doing good isn’t a trend –  it’s the future of travel. Visit TourismCares.org to learn more and become a member today.

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome back Ryan Doncsecz, Groups Manager for VIP Vacations, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Spirit Airlines shutting down, the people trying to revive the airline, and more. 

Later, Doncsecz and I dive into the best offers, rewards and incentives out there in honor of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month this May. Doncsecz shares the different ways he has seen the most support from travel suppliers during his career, as well as his top tips for fellow travel advisors looking to grow. 

The discussion on celebrating travel advisors begins after the 16-minute mark.  

Today's episode sponsor: Tourism Cares 

Are you ready to use travel as a force for good? Tourism Cares is a global nonprofit helping the travel industry turn sustainability into real, measurable action for communities –  and your clients. With free resources and industry programs, Tourism Cares helps you take practical steps toward a more responsible travel business. Because doing good isn’t a trend –  it’s the future of travel. Visit TourismCares.org to learn more and become a member today.

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Kristin Hancock, owner of Bright Life Travel Co., to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including airfare price hikes and a big letter from United's CEO. 

Later, Hancock and I dive into the world of multi-gen travel trends. She shares insights into the top trends today, where travelers are going, as well as tips for fellow travel advisors on growing their sales and managing large family group vacations. 

The discussion on multi-gen travel begins after the 14-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the jet fuel crisis raising airfare costs, rumors of a potential United-American Airlines merger, Europe's new entry system, and more. 

Later, I welcome Jessica Blotter, CEO and co-founder of Kind Traveler, to talk about how we can be better travelers. Blotter provides three key steps for all travelers to get started on being better travelers. She also describes why it's actually more affordable than you think to be an eco-friendly traveler and embrace sustainability, as well as how travel advisors can approach this topic with their clients. 

The discussion on being better travelers begins after the 13-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Danny Genung, owner of Harr Travel, joins to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including raising airfare, possible changes for TSA, and more. 

Later, Genung shares his thoughts on the current state of travel content on YouTube and what it means for travel advisors. Tune in to hear his tips on why advisors should be on YouTube, what they should and should not be posting, and much more. 

The conversation on YouTube begins after the 14-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Alvin Adriano, Director of Education for the American Society of Travel Advisors, joins to discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the ongoing issues with TSA long lines, airfare prices, and more. 

Later, Adriano shares his thoughts on the importance of travel advisor education, how ASTA is making an impact, and top tips for advisors to grow their business. 

The discussion on advisor education begins after the 14-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I report on location in the Netherlands for the 2026 ASTA River Cruise Expo. I first discuss the latest news in travel, including the Middle East War's impact on travel, TSA callouts, and more.

Later on the show, I interview Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. She shares insights into the latest trends she's seeing in river cruising, along with all the new happenings for AmaWaterways. 

The interview with Powell begins after the 16-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Christy Brown, owner of Little Luxuries Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including another chaotic weekend of travel disruptions, Royal Caribbean's new ban, and more. 

Later, Brown shares what's trending this spring break travel season. From the top destinations to the rise of last-minute requests, Brown provides insights and tips for fellow travel advisors. 

The social media discussion begins after the 13-minute mark. 

Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways 

When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com

Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at [email protected] and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.