As a second-generation travel industry leader, Matthew Upchurch — chairman and CEO of luxury travel network Virtuoso — offers a unique perspective on how the world of luxury travel has evolved over the past four decades.

In this episode of Humans of Travel, the first of a two-part conversation, Upchurch shares personal stories from his upbringing, the pioneering legacy of his father and the surprising origins of Virtuoso. You'll hear how the concept of a travel advisor collective emerged out of necessity in the post-World War II era, and how early collaborations set the foundation for what Virtuoso is today. Upchurch also reflects on how his perception of travel advisors has evolved throughout his career.

This episode is sponsored by The Globus Family of Brands.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Virtuoso

ABOUT YOUR HOST 

Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME.

TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. 

ABOUT THE SHOW 

TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.

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