AI is changing how we travel—and raising big questions about who gets left behind.

In this episode, host Kim Anderson sits down with Ross Borden,  the founder of Matador Network to explore how artificial intelligence is turning the travel world upside down. From simplifying trip planning to disrupting the creator economy, this conversation dives deep into the promise—and the peril—of a new era.

You’ll hear how Matador’s GuideGeek AI is reshaping the way travelers find information, why personalization is becoming the norm, and how brands are racing to keep up. But it’s not just about innovation: Ross shares honest reflections on the ethical challenges of AI, the environmental impact of large-scale data models, and what all of this means for the future of authentic travel storytelling.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The inspiration behind building an AI travel assistant and what it can (and can’t) do
• How AI is eroding traditional web traffic and changing how creators earn a living (spoiler alert: it's not al doom and gloom!)
• Why ethical considerations, accuracy, and sustainability matter more than ever

Whether you’re a digital creator, an avid traveler, or simply curious about where technology is taking us next, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and maybe a few tough questions to ponder.

RESOURCES:

• Connect with Ross on Instagram & Matador Network Website
• GuideGeek
• ⚡️ROUND travel tip: Skip the crowds at Muir Woods and check out the redwoods on Stinson Beach Steep Ravine Trail instead.

Like this? Try these epsiodes:

1. Behind the Scenes of a Delta Brand Ambassador: FromCorporate Girlie to Full Time Travel Creator w/ Your Travel BFF Janelle on a Jet #129
2. Below Deck IRL: How to Work on Superyachts and Get Paid to Travel w/ Hugo Ortega #132
3. Astrotourism 101: How to Plan the Ultimate Stargazing, Dark Sky, and Northern Lights Trip w/ Stephanie Vermillion #172

EPISODE DETAILS:

07:41 - Even with the rise of AI creators will become

14:54 - Websites that are not AI-centred 

16:05 - Optimized for AI

20:40 - Double down on your own experience 

21:47 - Branch out

31:11 - To keep your environmental footprint down

23:36 - Be as specific 

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