TIQUE Talks

Jennifer and Robin introduce Niche's new community manager, Maddy McCutchen, and reveal what's changing inside the community. Maddy shares how she went from listening to Tique Talks as a travel advisor to helping shape the future of Niche through weekly office hours, improved member support, recognition programs, and more opportunities for advisors to learn from one another. They also preview the new AI training series designed to help advisors streamline their workflows, strengthen their systems, understand their finances, and turn their 2026 metrics into meaningful momentum for 2027. There's no doubt about it - you need Niche! Join today and get the education, resources, and no-gatekeeping support you need to build a stronger travel business.Learn more and Pick Your Membership Tier → NICHE COMMUNITYFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsWhat changes when you stop trying to appeal to everyone and start building a brand designed to attract the clients you actually want? Vanessa Cromer had already spent years building a successful travel business when she decided to go all in on luxury branding. She elevated her imagery, tightened her messaging, and became much more intentional about what she was putting in front of potential clients. And people started paying attention. Suddenly, luxury clients were reaching out, brands and magazines were taking her more seriously, speaking opportunities were landing in her inbox, and she had the confidence to turn down business that no longer fit where she was headed. In this episode, Vanessa shares what shifted when she stopped trying to market everything she could book and started building a brand around the business she truly wanted. If your current brand doesn't reflect the level of client you're trying to attract, this conversation might make you rethink what you're putting out there!About Vanessa Kromer:Award-winning luxury travel advisor, Italy specialist, publisher of Maison Voyage Magazine, and creator of The Private Edit. For more than 16 years, Vanessa has designed unforgettable journeys across Europe and beyond, blending insider expertise, trusted relationships, and personalized service to create seamless, one-of-a-kind travel experiences for discerning travelers.theelegantexplorers.cominstagram.com/vanessakromermmvToday we will cover:(04:00) From a “hot mess” brand to finding her niche(08:10) The post-COVID shift toward Europe and Italy(14:00) Going all in on her travel business; investing in branding and professional photography(17:25) Creating a client experience that matches your branding(24:20) Advice for newer travel advisors; why your brand should speak to your dream clientNICHE is Tique's membership community for travel advisors who want support refining their business, strengthening their positioning, and learning alongside other advisors who are serious about growth. Vanessa is a member herself, and many of the strategies discussed in this episode are the kinds of conversations happening inside the community. Learn more and Pick Your Membership Tier → NICHE COMMUNITYFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!Saying yes might feel like good business, but the wrong yes can cost you more than you realize. In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer break down why travel advisors need to get more comfortable saying no; to misaligned clients, FAMs, meetings, expenses, and opportunities that look exciting but don't actually support where you're trying to go. They share how to gut-check opportunities against your bigger vision, protect your time and client experience, and recognize when a “great opportunity” might be pulling you off track. Plus, they share how they use AI and the Crucial Conversations framework to make clearer decisions and communicate a no without over-explaining or burning the relationship.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsKat Morga, founder of Adventure Smarter, talks about creating a travel business that feels authentic to you and naturally attracts clients who value the same things. She shares how her own travel experiences shaped her “splurge when it makes sense” philosophy, why she stopped trying to fit into the industry's version of luxury, and how she found a profitable niche without limiting herself to one destination. She also talks about why she loves local networking, finding your “cheerleaders,” using your website and email list to generate stronger leads, and knowing when to lean on other advisors and trusted DMC partners. This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn't have to mean becoming a different kind of advisor. Sometimes the smartest strategy is getting clearer about who you already are and building your business around it.About Kat Morga:Kat is the founder of Adventure Smarter, a travel advisory based outside of Nashville, Tennessee, specializing in FIT travel, safaris, river cruises, and multigenerational family travel - "Trips Done Right." She built her business from scratch, with no inherited client list and no background in luxury travel, which meant figuring out early on that she'd have to find clients the industry wasn't already handing her. Along the way she realized the field's default script - sell aspirational, sell ultra-luxury - didn't match the kind of travel she actually believed in or the clients she actually wanted. So she built her own positioning instead: direct, specific, grounded in firsthand experience rather than imagery. Kat is married with 2 young kids and has a Rick Steves autograph on her bookshelf.AdventureSmarter.org@AdventureSmarter Today we will cover:(04:30) Why “splurge when it makes sense” became Kat's travel philosophy(07:20) Building a client base when you don't have a wealthy network(13:30) Why your niche doesn't have to be a destination(21:00) Where Kat gets her best travel leads(24:30) Rejecting the travel industry's obsession with ultra-luxury(35:00) Creating messaging that attracts clients who travel like youDon't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!You can't force your clients to read your emails. But you can make it a whole lot more likely. In this week's Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer chat about why clients skim, skip, and straight-up ignore important information. From punchier subject lines and TLDRs to giving every email one clear job, they're sharing how to communicate in a way your clients will actually consume. Turns out, getting clients to pay attention might have less to do with them and more to do with how you communicate.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Receive 15% off your first purchase in the shop with code TIQUEA great client experience shouldn't require a travel advisor to be available 24/7. In the final episode of their summer series on boundaries, Robin and Jennifer break down the systems that allow travel advisors to deliver exceptional service without making themselves the center of every client interaction. From guides and forms to email templates, terms and conditions, and CRM automation, they share the systems they've implemented in their own businesses to create a more consistent client experience, reduce reactive communication, and protect their time. Because clients aren't hiring a travel advisor for unlimited access. They're hiring them for their expertise and a seamless travel experience.Today we will cover:(03:30) Why a structured client experience creates stronger boundaries(09:25) How forms can reduce back-and-forth communication and better organize important client information(18:20) Why travel advisors should have templated client emails(23:50) The role terms and conditions play in protecting a travel business(30:35) Why a CRM should serve as the central hub for client communication and documentation(35:00) Why clear processes can help filter out clients who aren't aligned with the way a business operatesResources Mentioned In This Episode:Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.Client Onboarding Guide – Create a seamless onboarding experience and answer common questions before they arise.Client Experience Templates – Ready-to-use email templates, forms, workflows, and client touchpoints designed to create a consistent, scalable client experience.5 Free Email Templates – 5 plug-and-play email templates that are totally customizable to your travel businessTravel Advisor Contract from The Legal PaigeDon't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!Forget the "just start." While waiting for perfection will keep you stuck, jumping in before your business is ready can cost you far more than lost time. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin challenge the idea that taking action without preparation is always the right move. They discuss what being "ready" really means, from building repeatable systems and pricing with intention to creating a client experience that earns trust from day one. If you're building a business designed to last, this episode will help you start smarter…not just sooner.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Receive 15% off your first purchase in the shop with code TIQUE"Charge fees, please." That's the entire episode in one sentence, according to Robin. But if it were that simple, every travel advisor would already be doing it. In this third episode of the Summer Boundaries Series, Jennifer and Robin dig into the money conversation many advisors avoid: minimum budgets, planning fees, and the contracts that back them up. They break down why a per-day minimum protects your profit margin better than a flat trip minimum, why "deal" and "discount" quietly train clients to negotiate you down, and how your marketing sets budget expectations before a client ever fills out an inquiry form. Plus, the math behind a sustainable minimum and how to word an inquiry form so low-budget leads self-select out. If you've ever resented a client for how little they spent, or you're not sure how to introduce fees without losing longtime clients, this episode gives you the framework and the exact language to fix it!Today we will cover:(03:25) Why set a minimum budget(11:35) How to find your starting minimum budget(16:05) Structuring inquiry form questions(22:35) Planning fees vs. minimum budgets: which matters more(29:30) Service suites and itemized packages to prevent scope creep(36:30) Why contracts matter; making promises mutual and enforceableResources Mentioned In This Episode:Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!Think having processes makes your business feel too rigid? Think again! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why clear workflows, written policies, and firm boundaries create a better client experience while protecting your time, profitability, and sanity. They share real-world examples of planning fees, cancellation policies, inquiry forms, and business boundaries to show how having a standard makes your exceptions meaningful instead of expected. Plus, they discuss why documenting exceptions, communicating them clearly, and resisting the urge to make decisions based on "vibes" are essential for building a business that scales without sacrificing the personal touch.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsIf you're constantly answering calls, responding to texts, and making yourself available 24/7, you're probably losing more time and money than you realize. Jennifer and Robin continue their Summer Boundaries Series with a deep dive into phone habits. Building on the email boundaries conversation from the last episode, they make the case that being accessible and being constantly available are two different things, and that real growth requires protecting your time from an always-on phone. They walk through scheduling systems, voicemail scripts, call pricing, and where agentic AI is already starting to change how advisors capture and manage phone inquiries.Today we will cover:(02:30) Meetings that should have been emails(09:00) The voicemail script every travel advisor needs(15:10) How AI can qualify leads and schedule inquiries(22:55) Protecting your deep work time(29:00) When and how to charge for additional calls(33:30) Setting clear expectations with every clientResources Mentioned In This Episode:Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.Sales Call Roadmap Freebie – A 15-page roadmap to rock your next intake call with niche specific questions & more.Episode 209. Hot Take: Stop Avoiding LoomDon't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Would you rather spend $35 a month on a CRM, or $3,000 on a FAM for the one Turkey lead you'll get in four years? If you flinched at the CRM number, we need to talk. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin call out one of the travel industry's favorite delusions: advisors happily investing in FAMs but hesitating to invest in the systems, education, and expertise that grow their businesses. They share the biggest investments they've made (including a whopping $20,000 website and $10,000+ in AI education), why those purchases have paid for themselves many times over, and the simple question you should ask before spending another dollar on your business. Ready to actually invest in your business instead of your carry-on? Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26! Three days, nine sessions, and practical strategies you can implement immediately to build a more profitable, efficient travel business. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsIn this first episode of the Summer Boundaries Series, Jennifer and Robin explain why your inbox might be running your business instead of supporting it. They share strategies for setting office hours, creating autoresponders that improve the client experience, using email signatures to reinforce boundaries, and building forms and automations that eliminate unnecessary back-and-forth. They also discuss the mindset shift every business owner needs to make: being constantly available isn't the same as delivering exceptional service. When your communication systems create clarity, your clients feel more confident, your business becomes more scalable, and you finally have the space to work on your business instead of spending every day reacting to your inbox.Today we will cover:(02:45) Why your inbox shouldn't be your task manager(09:15) What every travel advisor should include in an autoresponder(16:15) Using your email signature to reinforce boundaries and reduce liability(26:35) Simple automations that save time without sacrificing personalization(35:15) How proactive communication dramatically reduces incoming emails(42:50) Why CEOs prioritize deep work over constant inbox managementResources Mentioned In This Episode:Scaling With Systems – Learn the systems Jennifer and Robin use to create boundaries, streamline operations, and scale a travel business without sacrificing client experience.How We Work & Investment Guide – Set clear expectations before discovery calls and help qualified leads understand your process before they book.What To Do When Guide – Give clients a single resource that explains what to do before, during, and while traveling to reduce unnecessary emails.Client Onboarding Guide – Create a seamless onboarding experience and answer common questions before they arise.Client Experience Templates – Ready-to-use email templates, forms, workflows, and client touchpoints designed to create a consistent, scalable client experience.Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Don't miss the Travel Business Intensive, happening August 24-26. Learn more and grab your ticket here → RESERVE MY SPOT!Think you're annoying your audience? You're giving yourself way too much credit. Most people aren't seeing your content in the first place. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why the fear of "posting too much" is costing travel advisors potential clients, why confidence converts, and why the businesses that win are the ones willing to show up long after everyone else gets uncomfortable. And don't stop when the episode ends - stick around for the blooper reel, where things go completely off the rails!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsNew levels, new devils. The strategies that get you to $1 million in sales aren't necessarily the same ones that will get you to $3 million. Angie Licea of Global Travel Collection shares the mindset shifts, systems, and leadership habits she sees among top-performing advisors, along with advice for building a business that grows with you instead of consuming you. From delegation and team structure to defining your value and avoiding burnout, this episode is full of actionable takeaways for advisors who want to scale with intention.About Angie Licea:Angie is President of Global Travel Collection (GTC), a division of Internova Travel Group and a $2.3 billion travel agency representing more than 1,500 independent advisors. With over 36 years in the travel industry, Angie has held leadership roles at US Airways, American Express/Rosenbluth International, and Travel Leaders Group. Today, she is passionate about helping travel advisors grow thriving businesses while championing the value of personalized service and the human touch in travel.instagram.com/globaltravelcollectionjoinus.globaltravelcollection.comToday we will cover:(01:30) Meet Angie Licea(03:10) Why the jump from $1M to $3M is different(09:00) Infrastructure, processes, and avoiding shiny objects(20:00) Work-life balance and avoiding burnout(29:20) What Highly Successful Advisors Do Differently(34:50) There is no wrong way to build your business(43:05) Diversifying without diluting your nicheResources Mentioned In This Episode:How We Work & Investment GuideJoin the Niche Community→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

You can't build a business around a blurry goal! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin explain why every successful travel advisor needs a long-term vision before setting goals. They share the mistakes they made early in business, unpack the difference between vision and goals, and discuss how your pricing, offers, team, and daily decisions should all support the business (and life) you ultimately want to build. If you're ready to stop making reactionary decisions and start growing your travel business with intention, don't miss Jennifer's closing session at the Travel Business Intensive (August 24-26), where she'll help you turn your vision into a practical plan for growth! → Grab Your Ticket - Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsSmeuse Studio - Strategic branding and website design for travel advisorsBuilding a successful travel business shouldn't come at the expense of your life. Mimi Lichtenstein, Founder of Truvay Travel, has created a thriving referral-only boutique advisory by putting her health, family, and priorities on the calendar before work ever begins. In this episode, she shares how intentional planning, time blocking, client boundaries, and smarter systems have helped her grow a profitable business without sacrificing the freedom that drew her to entrepreneurship in the first place. If you're ready to stop reacting to your calendar and start designing your business with intention, this episode is full of actionable ideas you can implement immediately!About Mimi Lichtenstein:Mimi didn't set out to become a luxury travel advisor. She set out to live a really good life - and somewhere along the way, helping others do the same became her work. After a year-long family sabbatical in Spain, she founded Truvay Travel, a referral-only boutique advisory based in Hanover, NH - and has been recognized as a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist for four consecutive years. Her approach is built on real connection, intentional contrast - street food and Michelin stars, refugios and five-star lodges - and a life designed the same way: health, family, and play first. Work built around them.truvaytravel.comlinkedin.com/in/mimi-lichtensteininstagram.com/truvaytravelToday we will cover:(02:30) Mimi's journey to becoming a travel advisor(05:10) Why scheduling your priorities first leads to greater productivity(09:00) Time-blocking and weekly planning strategies(14:00) How to reduce decision fatigue and avoid burnout(19:55) The importance of setting boundaries with clients(34:45) Why saying "no" can help you build a more profitable business→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!Robin and Jennifer are exposing the most expensive marketing mistake of all, the one that never shows up on a credit card statement: doing it all yourself until you burn out. From wasted ad spend to vanity metrics that feel good but pay nothing, they share how shifting from random promotion to a strategic marketing engine transformed their business. Tune in as they discuss measuring ROI, finding the right audience, outsourcing wisely, and why chasing virality is basically the marketing equivalent of running really fast in the wrong direction.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutNot every client needs a $2,000-a-night hotel to feel like they're traveling in luxury. Natalie Payne, VP of Sales at Calliope Collective, joins this episode to discuss how travel advisors can create elevated client experiences by blending bucket-list hotels with high-value properties that deliver exceptional service and a true sense of place. Drawing on more than 25 years in the independent hotel world, Natalie shares how to identify a client's "passion points," decide where the budget matters most, and build itineraries that feel luxurious without unnecessary excess. You'll hear examples from Italy and Ireland, strategies for sequencing hotel stays, ideas for destination alternatives, and practical ways to use supplier relationships and rep firms as an extension of your team. Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or helping clients maximize their budget, this episode will help you deliver more value without sacrificing the wow factor!About Natalie Payne:Natalie is a seasoned sales leader and strategic partnerships expert with a background in luxury hospitality and service-based businesses. As Vice President of Sales at The Calliope Collective, she focuses on driving revenue growth and building high-value client relationships. With over 16 years at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Natalie brings deep expertise in luxury client experience, sales strategy, and partnership development. Her approach is relationship-driven, combining strong execution with a focus on sustainable, long-term growth. thecalliopecollective.comToday we will cover:(04:30) Defining a splurge stay versus a value stay(08:35) Balancing bucket-list hotels with budget priorities(14:05) Does the order of hotel stays matter?(21:00) Planning around passions instead of destinations(26:20) How to build relationships with rep firms and suppliers→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!You asked for SOP templates. You downloaded the SOP templates. You have not touched the SOP templates. Sound familiar? In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin are here to give you the loving kick in the pants you need, because your business cannot scale, hire, or sell if every process lives inside your head. You'll learn how to use AI and a dictation tool to crank out three SOPs in a 30-minute gap between meetings, why you should document before you automate, and how to keep your SOPs current without a total overhaul every year. Bottom line: your client experience, your financial health, and your ability to grow all depend on having documented processes. The good news? It has never been easier to build them!Resources Mentioned In This Episode:ClickUp Business Hub TemplateJoin the Niche CommunityFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutGrowing your business shouldn't require working around the clock. Catherine Denham, founder of Catherine Denham Travel and an affiliate of Brownell Travel, shares how intentional systems, strategic hiring, and a commitment to exceptional service helped her transform a one-woman operation into a thriving, relationship-driven agency on track to surpass $5 million in sales. Catherine opens up about the lessons she learned from booking everything, undercharging, and trying to do it all herself. She also shares how personality profiles have shaped her hiring decisions and how the right processes have allowed her team to scale without sacrificing the personalized experience their clients value most.About Catherine Denham:Travel has shaped Catherine's life since childhood, when annual family adventures—across the country and around the world—inspired her curiosity and molded the way she sees the world. That early sense of wonder eventually led her into hospitality, where she began her career at Sea Island Resorts more than 20 years ago. Her passion for service has only deepened since. Today, as the founder of Catherine Denham Travel, she blends lifelong experience, industry expertise, and global relationships to craft seamless, one-of-a-kind journeys. From indulgent weekend escapes to intricate multi-country adventures, Catherine thrives on uncovering each client's dreams and translating them into immersive itineraries enriched by insider access and thoughtful detail.cdenhamtravel.cominstagram.com/catherine.denham.travelToday we will cover:(01:40) Catherine's path to travel(04:45) Why booking everything and not charging fees slowed her growth(14:50) Hiring, team roles and workflow(22:30) How monday.com, Dubsado, and Zoom support the team(28:05) Using AI Without Losing Personalization(34:25) How the Birkman method helped build the right team(41:15) Catherine's long-term vision and the path toward $5 million in sales(46:00) Small details that create big referrals→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!AI seems to bring out strong opinions. Some people think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. Others act like using ChatGPT is the first step toward the robot apocalypse. In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer tackle the question many travel advisors are asking: Should you be avoiding AI? They share how their own perspective has changed and the simple ways they're using AI in their business; from meeting recaps and task management to tax questions and time blocking. They also discuss the three biggest pain points travel advisors face and how AI can help solve them without sacrificing personalization. This isn't about replacing humans. It's about removing the drag in your business so you can show up as the best version of yourself for your clients, your team, and your family.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutHeather Keller of Perfect Landing Travel returns to the show to share how she's leveraging AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and create more space for the work that drives growth. From client communications and workflow management to restaurant research and trip planning support, Heather has built a suite of custom GPTs that function as an extension of her team; bringing greater consistency, efficiency, and scalability to her business without sacrificing personalization.Want to see Heather's GPTs in action? Join us inside the Niche Community on July 2 for a live demonstration where Heather will walk through the custom GPTs she uses to streamline operations, support her team, and deliver a more consistent client experience! Then, continue the conversation at Tique's Travel Business Intensive, August 24-26!About Heather Keller:Heather is the founder of Perfect Landing Travel and a respected luxury travel advisor with more than a decade of industry experience. A consistent top producer with Departure Lounge since 2020, she has been recognized as a Travel + Leisure Rising Star and has helped lead her team to multiple industry nominations. Known for her psychology-informed approach to travel planning, Heather specializes in understanding what clients truly want from their travels—not just where they want to go, but how they want to feel. By combining deep client insight with innovative tools like AI, she creates highly personalized, high-touch travel experiences that feel effortless, thoughtful, and uniquely tailored to each traveler.perfectlandingtravel.cominstagram.com/perfectlandingtravelToday we will cover:(03:00) ChatGPT vs. custom GPTs(06:45) How Heather created GPTs for repeatable tasks and workflows(14:55) Using AI for client communications(20:55) Heather's favorite note-taking tools; Granola and Plaud(26:05) Auditing, tweaking, and refining outputs over time(28:10) How examples, standards, and boundaries improve outputFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE! If you're selling everything, you're known for nothing. In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer make the case for niching down; why it leads to better clients, stronger supplier relationships, and real pricing power. They bust the "but I'll miss bookings" myth, share examples of experts crushing it in ultra-specific lanes, and give you three questions to help you pick your own. Hit play now!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutKatie Ferrari, Regional VP of Global Sales at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, breaks down how preferred partnerships work behind the scenes and why they're about far more than just extra perks. You'll learn how programs like Hyatt Privé help advisors create more personalized client experiences, strengthen direct hotel relationships, and advocate for travelers more effectively from booking to check-out. Katie also explains when it makes sense to book through a preferred partner versus a wholesaler or DMC, how loyalty programs and advisor benefits work, and why the best advisors know how to use relationships, not just rates, to elevate a trip.About Katie Ferrari:Katie Ferrari is the Regional Vice President of Global Sales at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where she leads sales teams across the Americas and oversees key relationships within Hyatt's luxury, lifestyle, and leisure segments. A passionate hospitality leader, she is dedicated to building meaningful connections, mentoring others, and advancing colleague resource groups across the organization. Before joining Hyatt's global sales team, Katie held leadership roles at Park Hyatt Washington and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. She lives in Atlanta with her husband, two daughters, and a rotating crew of foster kittens, and enjoys tennis, live entertainment, and travel.linkedin.com/in/katieferrariLearn more about Hyatt's Travel Professional Loyalty program and advisor benefits here: hyatt.com/events/en-US/groups/travel-professional-loyaltyNeed help connecting your IATA number to your World of Hyatt account? Watch Hyatt's quick setup tutorial: World-of-Hyatt-Advisor-Planner-Profile-Setup-60s-1080p-EN.mp4Today we will cover:(03:00) What a preferred partnership means(08:40) Hyatt Privé vs. consortia bookings: what's the difference?(10:15) How advisors market preferred partnerships to clients(19:30) Advisor loyalty perks, qualifying tier nights, and client points(27:30) Who advisors should contact at hotels and why relationships matter(32:00) The future of advisor relationshipsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE! Robin and Jennifer kindly drag the idea that sales has to feel pushy, awkward, or manipulative. Instead of convincing clients to book, they explain how great sales calls are really about building trust, uncovering the client's real problem, and creating genuine connection. From avoiding “word-vomit” discovery calls to using intentional questions, tailored messaging, and even silence strategically, they share how advisors can approach sales with more confidence, authenticity, and ease. Plus, they preview their August 24–26 Travel Business Intensive featuring Marsha-Ann Donaldson on selling with authority and authenticity.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Seven Figure SalesEpisode 152. The Legalities Of Selling With AI with Paige GriffithFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutJessica Marks, strategic advisor and host of the Millions Were Made podcast, joins this episode to talk about auditing your business, uncovering hidden profit opportunities, and stepping fully into a CEO role without burning yourself out in the process. From operational inefficiencies and messy client journeys to underperforming websites, broken sales processes, and the mindset shifts required to scale, this conversation dives deep into the systems that separate overwhelmed founders from sustainable, profitable businesses. Jessica shares how she built multiple companies while working roughly 20 hours a week, why “being needed” is not the goal, and how founders can leverage automation, AI, delegation, and strategic infrastructure to reclaim both their time and profitability. Whether you're a solopreneur feeling maxed out or a growing agency owner trying to scale sustainably, this episode will give you insight into building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.About Jessica Marx:Jessica Marx is a globally recognized business strategist and the Founder of Tailored Premier, a global advisory firm helping entrepreneurs build scalable, high-performing, and sustainable businesses. A five-time Forbes Business Advisor and named a Top Female Advisor by Yahoo! Finance, she is known for translating complex business strategy into clear, actionable growth plans. With nearly two decades of executive leadership experience, Jessica has operated at the highest levels of multi-billion-dollar organizations, overseeing more than $150 million in annual budgets and leading teams of over 500 sales professionals. She has worked closely with executive leadership, CEOs, and boards to shape company-wide strategy and drive long-term growth. Today, she partners with entrepreneurs to simplify operations, scale strategically, and build businesses designed for both profitability and freedom.tailoredpremier.comResources Mentioned In This Episode:Episode 83: Attracting Ideal Clients & Fostering Relationships Built On Trust with Heather KellerEpisode 31: Leveraging Debt to Fuel Business Growth with Fractional CFO, Shay Bacani (Millions Were Made podcast)Today we will cover:(01:45) Jessica's corporate background, IVF journey, and launching her business with twins(05:00) The biggest mistake founders make when hiring help(13:25) Building SOPs and systems that multiply your capabilities(17:10) How branding, marketing, sales, and systems impact profitability(19:15) The domino effect of marketing, sales, and client conversion(28:10) How to audit your entire client journey step-by-step(33:55) What it realistically looks like to step into a CEO roleFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE! Imposter syndrome? We don't know her! In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin unpack why so many travel advisors are undercharging, overextending themselves, and wondering why they're burned out by clients who treat unlimited access like a personality trait. From planning fees and pricing psychology to luxury perception, boundaries, and profitable service suites, this conversation is your reminder that your business is not a nonprofit. Whether you book five-star Italy itineraries or budget-friendly cruises, the goal is the same: build a business that pays you, protects your time, and supports the life you're trying to create. Plus, hear why Shay Bacani might convince you to raise your rates immediately at The Travel Business Intensive this August!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFrom lighting and ambiance to design and sensory experience, the psychology of a space may matter more than most advisors realize. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Sara Bacon, founder of Opulist, a US-based searchable platform curating aesthetically compelling hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars based on vibe and design rather than traditional travel metrics. Sara shares her background in psychology and how her research into neuroaesthetics supports the idea that beauty signals safety, abundance, and comfort, ultimately shaping nervous-system regulation and overall guest satisfaction. You'll learn how travel advisors can improve client experiences by psychologically matchmaking hotels to client personalities, elevating even the most functional trips through intentional venue selection, and using Opulist's vetted visuals and map features to build more emotionally resonant itineraries. Sara also touches on branding, consumer behavior, romanticizing everyday experiences, and why modern travelers are ultimately buying a feeling, not just a destination.About Sara Bacon:Sara is the founder of Opulist, a design-forward media and discovery platform spotlighting the most beautifully designed places to stay, eat, and drink. She leads Opulist's vision at the intersection of hospitality, travel, and design - building a trusted brand that celebrates beauty not just as a luxury, but as a vital part of how we experience the world. Sara calls Newport Beach, CA home, but will travel anywhere a stunning location beckons her to. She's equally delighted by fancy restaurants and local dive bars, and believes that one of the truest expressions of gratitude for this life is to enjoy it fully. Through her work, she hopes to help others do the same.opulist.coinstagram.com/opulistToday we will cover:(02:40) Meet Sarah Bacon; the origin of Opulist(07:25) The science of neuroaesthetics and why beautiful spaces make us feel safe(11:50) Why beauty and design influence creativity, abundance, and well-being(15:40) Why even “functional” trips should feel intentional and elevated(22:20) Psychological matchmaking: pairing hotels to client personalities(27:55) How Opulist vets hotels, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops(37:45) Content creation tips for capturing ambiance and “vibe”FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Join the Waitlist for The Travel Business Intensive by TIQUE! Some clients are dream bookings. Others make you question your career choices before your second cup of coffee. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin get honest about toxic clients, scope creep, people-pleasing, and the moment you realize a trip is no longer profitable because a client is draining every ounce of your energy. They break down how to set boundaries before things spiral, when to try salvaging the relationship, and how to professionally “bless and release” a client without the guilt, drama, or five-paragraph apology email. Consider this your PSA to stop bending your business to fit the wrong people. Mentioned In This Episode:Scaling With SystemsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE at checkoutFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsCarrie Wallace, CEO of FamGuru, shares how travel advisors can use FAM trips more strategically to grow their business. From choosing the right FAMs and preparing clients for out-of-office time to building stronger supplier relationships and retaining destination knowledge, this conversation is packed with advice advisors rarely talk about. Carrie also explains how FamGuru helps organize photos, notes, and supplier insights into usable content and post-trip reports. Plus, the conversation dives into the small details that make a big impact, such as thoughtful follow-up, proper etiquette, intentional networking, and how to stop returning home from FAMs feeling overwhelmed instead of equipped to sell.About Carrie Wallace:Carrie is the Chief Executive Officer of FamGuru. With more than 20 years as a travel advisor and agency owner, Carrie Wallace has explored over 80 countries across 5 continents. A natural problem solver and MBA graduate from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, she combines deep industry relationships with a passion for innovation to simplify travel for advisors and clients alike. Carrie is also a frequent speaker on entrepreneurship, technology, and the future of the travel industry.famguru.appResources Mentioned in this Episode:Episode 3: Preparing To Go OOO? Do These Things FirstMastering FAM Trips Today we will cover:(04:00) Why FamGuru exists(11:30) Preparing clients & your business to go out of office(15:40) Building better supplier relationships during FAMs(20:35) Avoiding overwhelm & organizing information while traveling(28:50) How FamGuru works before, during & after a trip(33:25) Post-trip follow-up, feedback & relationship buildingFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Started your travel business with zero network, zero book of business, and zero luxury clients? Same! In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer discuss what it looks like to build a business from scratch when you don't have a network or years of sales experience backing you. From awkward early marketing attempts to learning how to show up consistently online, this episode is the reminder that success isn't about who you know. It's about visibility, resilience, systems, and staying in the game long enough for people to finally pay attention. If you've been feeling behind, discouraged, or stuck in comparison mode, press play now!Mentioned In This Episode:Episode 83: Attracting Ideal Clients & Fostering Relationships Built On Trust with Heather KellerEpisode 168: How To Sell A Million In Your First Year with Katie GibsonSeven Figure SalesFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsThink a DMC is automatically out of your client's budget? Think again! Jonathan Epstein, Chairman and owner of Celebrated Experiences, explains why that assumption is costing you better trips, smoother client experiences, and more profitable bookings. He also gives details on what really goes into DMC pricing. From navigating budget conversations to protecting your time and reputation, you'll learn how the right destination partner can elevate your service without adding more to your plate. If you've been hesitating to reach out to a DMC because of price, this episode will change your mind!About Jonathan Epstein:Jonathan is Chairman of Celebrated Experiences, a leading luxury destination specialist for England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. Since joining the family business in 2006, he has helped grow the company from four employees to a 70-person team serving travel advisors across North America and Europe. Jonathan also founded Celebrated Impact, a charitable initiative that donates $1 for every hotel room night booked, contributing more than $400,000 to organizations and disaster recovery efforts. Passionate about mentorship and hospitality, he serves on several nonprofit and industry boards. A Birmingham native and Trinity College economics graduate, Jonathan lives in Atlanta with his wife and two children.instagram.com/celebratedexperiencesResources Mentioned in this Episode:Supplier Communication Templates: tiquehq.com/shop/supplier-communication-templatesStart With Why by Simon Sinek: amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447 Today we will cover:(01:50) Meet Jonathan Epstein; what makes Celebrated Experiences different(04:10) DMC vs. destination specialist(11:00) Working efficiently with mid-range clients(17:40) The “5-minute rule” that shapes the entire trip experience(28:30) Peeling back DMC pricing(34:00) Planning fees + why they matter to your partners(40:35) Red flags with client funds and financial handling(51:40) Overcoming fear of losing clients(55:10) Let experts create the magicFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

TIQUE'S TRAVEL ADVISOR APPRECIATION SALE IS LIVE! Enjoy 20% OFF May 4th-8th → SHOP NOWShould you put your pricing on your website? Yes. Full stop.Jennifer and Robin make the case for fee transparency, because hiding your pricing doesn't convert skeptics, it just attracts the wrong clients. Robin shares a cringe-worthy Botox appointment story that proves exactly what happens when financial surprises ambush people mid-process, and Jennifer breaks down the many ways to coach clients on investment before they ever land on your calendar. Clear is kind, "starting at" is your best friend, and the right clients won't bat an eye.FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsMulti-destination trips look dreamy until the seams start to show. In this episode, Milena Stancati of Travel Collection dives into what makes complex itineraries work and where many advisors quietly lose control. From missed transfers and mismatched service levels to chaotic handoffs between countries, she shares the exact points where trips fall apart and how to fix them before your client ever notices. You'll learn how to structure trips like a story with intentional pacing, why “three nights minimum” changes everything, and the behind-the-scenes systems top advisors use to manage multi-country travel without the overwhelm. If you want to sell bigger, more complex trips without the stress (or the risk), this is the episode you need to hear!About Milena Stancati:Milena Stancati is a travel industry leader and Head of Business Development at Travel Collection Limited, where she partners with travel advisors across North America. With nearly seven years at Context Travel, she helped scale global experiences and deepen culturally driven travel. Raised in an Italian-American family, her love of travel was sparked by stories of heritage and history, leading to a lifelong passion for exploring the world. She's visited 70+ countries and spent a year traveling across continents with Remote Year. Now based in Charlotte, Milena brings a thoughtful, story-first approach to travel, and when she's not working, she's chasing her goal of running a half marathon in every U.S. state. instagram.com/travelcollectionltdRecourses mentioned in this Episode:Travel Collection Form Simple Fee CalculatorToday we will cover:(03:00) Meet Milena Stancati; Travel Collection(08:55) The biggest failure points (the “seams”)(17:30) How to fix the seams before they break(24:00) Structuring a multi-country itinerary that flows(33:20) Client briefs, transition checklists, and partner coordination(40:30) How to structure planning fees for multi-destination trips(43:10) Post-trip debriefs; improving future tripsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

TIQUE'S TRAVEL ADVISOR APPRECIATION SALE IS LIVE! Enjoy 20% OFF May 4th-8th → SHOP NOWYou thought starting a travel business meant freedom, flexibility, and maybe even five-star perks. But behind the scenes? It's duct-taped systems, second-guessing every decision, and wondering why it still feels so hard. In this fiery Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin pull back the curtain on the real reason your business isn't flowing and it has nothing to do with your talent. It's what you're avoiding. The investments, the systems, the foundations that separate hobbyists from professionals. This episode is the line in the sand. Keep piecing it together and stay stuck, or finally build something that works. Need additional guidance? Email hello@tiquehq.com!FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offGroup trips sound like easy money until you're managing contracts, chasing availability, and realizing your “100 guests” is really just 60. In this episode, Marilyn Cairo, VP of Sales for Groups at Classic Vacations, breaks down what makes group bookings and destination weddings run smoothly and profitably. From qualifying clients and locking in dates to navigating contracts, attrition, concessions, and those last-minute weather calls, this is a clear, no-fluff look at how to book large groups the right way so you can avoid the headaches later. If you're ready for group trips to feel streamlined, strategic, and profitable, this is the episode to press play on!About Marilyn Cairo:Marilyn is a seasoned sales leader with over 30 years in the travel industry, known for driving revenue growth and building high-performance teams. She combines strategic vision, disciplined execution, and strong client relationships to consistently exceed goals and elevate performance. A respected speaker and thought leader, she delivers practical insights on sales, branding, and innovation that challenge teams to evolve and perform. Currently serving as Vice President of Sales, Groups at Classic Vacations, Marilyn continues to shape modern sales leadership with a results-driven and people-focused approach. linkedin.com/in/marilyn-cairo-sales-leaderclassicvacations.com/v2/ta-registrationRecourses mentioned in this Episode:Sales Call Roadmap: tiquehq.com/sales-call Travel Advisor Contracts: thelegalpaige.com/collections/industry-travel-advisor?aff=143Episode 156. Group Bookings 101: Contract vs. Flex with Ateet AjuhaToday we will cover:(02:05) Meet Marilyn Cairo(05:40) How to properly qualify a group client(12:20) Dates, destinations, and setting realistic expectations early(21:45) Contracts 101: how the process works through Classic Vacations(26:00) Why every advisor needs a client contract before signing anything(29:35) Advisor vs onsite planner(34:45) Concessions explained: what you can actually ask for(40:20) Using group tech to simplify everything(49:15) Tapping into corporate incentive travelFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

The world feels chaotic and your clients can feel it too. So what actually happens to your business when uncertainty hits? And more importantly, how do you stay booked when everyone else is hesitating? In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer talk about how to navigate unpredictable seasons without losing momentum. From what to say to clients right now to how to adjust your booking strategy, systems, and offers, this is the behind-the-scenes guidance most advisors don't think about until it is too late. If bookings feel slower or clients are second guessing, this episode will show you how to pivot with confidence, stay visible, and position yourself as the expert people trust when it matters most. Because the advisors who get this right are not just surviving these seasons, they are coming out stronger because of them.Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHEFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offMeredith Calloway, co-founder of Gifted Travel Network (GTN), breaks down what it really takes to build a long-lasting career in travel. She shares why so many advisors stay stuck in an employee mindset, and how shifting into intentional entrepreneurship starts with getting clear on your message, audience, and brand. The conversation also dives into mental fitness, unpacking how fear, limiting beliefs, and industry setbacks like 9/11 and COVID shape your growth, and how to tell the difference between intuition and avoidance. You'll walk away with practical, CEO-level shifts you can start implementing today - from reverse-engineering your revenue goals to investing in yourself, surrounding yourself with the right community, and building habits that support long-term success!About Meredith Calloway:On a mission to help entrepreneurs build businesses they love, centered around their passion for travel, Meredith draws on more than 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, lessons learned through trial and error, and a deeply cultivated resilient success mindset. In 2001, she left her career on Wall Street to establish her own boutique travel agency, Hills of Africa Travel. She founded the Global Institute for Travel Entrepreneurs (GIFTE) in 2011, providing education and support to help “accidental hobbyist” travel advisors build sustainable businesses. In 2013, she co-founded Gifted Travel Network (GTN) alongside Jennifer Cochrane and Vanessa McGovern to address gaps within the host agency landscape. GTN introduced a comprehensive, all-in-one approach to marketing, business strategy, and mindset education for travel advisors. While leading both GIFTE and GTN, she ultimately chose to sunset GIFTE in 2021 to focus fully on GTN's mission: delivering an elevated hosting experience for luxury travel advisors.giftedtravelnetwork.comlinkedin.com/in/meredithhillinstagram.com/meredith.callowayToday we will cover:(02:40) Meredith's journey: leaving Wall Street to start a travel business(05:10) Why your brand must start with your message and ideal client(09:40) What it really takes to build a six-figure travel business(13:55) Reframing challenges; setbacks vs. comebacks(20:35) Intuition vs. fear(26:45) Practical shifts to thrive as an advisorFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

If you're still not using Loom, you're making your sales process harder than it needs to be. Robin and Jennifer break down how voice, tone, and storytelling drive higher conversions, why your “perfect” PDF is getting skimmed (or ignored), and how Loom removes friction in a way calls and emails simply can't. They also share exactly how to use it without feeling awkward on camera, how it can increase your average booking value, and how to make your offers feel more personal without adding more to your plate. If you've been saying “I'll never use Loom,” this might be the episode that proves you wrong!Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHEFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Travel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCsFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyCozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offMadi Lang of BA Cultural Concierge breaks down the difference between mass-produced experiences and the kind of travel that truly means something. The kind you feel, not just check off a list. She shares what “authentic” really looks like behind the scenes and why most so-called authentic experiences completely miss the mark - using tango as the perfect example of the shift from staged shows to one-on-one, expert-led moments. Madi explains how advisors can build and vet the right supplier relationships, ask better questions, and design life-changing experiences. You'll also hear what sustainability looks like in practice, from fair pay and supporting local teams to transparent pricing and thoughtful tipping. If you want to create itineraries that feel intentional, personal, and rooted in culture, this is where it starts!About Madi Lang:Madi is the founder of BA Cultural Concierge, a boutique, on-the-ground travel design company based in Argentina. For over 16 years, she's been working closely with clients and travel advisors to create culturally immersive, ethically minded journeys across Argentina and Latin America. Living and operating locally, Madi brings a supplier-side perspective that helps advisors look beyond surface-level luxury and ask smarter questions about logistics, authenticity, sustainability, and guest experience. Her work focuses on designing trips that are seamless, values-aligned, and deeply rooted in place — from Patagonia lodges to private cultural experiences in Buenos Aires and beyond. She's especially passionate about helping advisors confidently vet partners, avoid common destination mistakes, and build itineraries that are intentional rather than transactional.baculturalconcierge.comToday we will cover:(02:25) Madi's story and how BA Cultural Concierge began(09:35) What makes an experience truly feel authentic(11:45) Becoming the “matchmaker” between client and supplier(20:20) Moving beyond “hidden gem” and other overused buzzwords(24:50) What sustainability looks like in travel(32:05) What a values-aligned supplier relationship looks likeRecourses mentioned in this Episode:ClickUp Business Hub TemplateFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

If you feel like you're drowning in hotel research, this is your sign to stop trying to do it all! In this extra spicy Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer explain why over-researching is holding advisors back and how leveraging DMCs and trusted partners leads to better client experiences, less risk, and more time to grow your business. Plus, what to do when a recommendation isn't quite right and why those DMC fees are doing more for you than you think. It's time to step out of the weeds, trust your network, and finally operate like a true curator, not an overworked researcher. Hit play now!Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHEFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Feeling overwhelmed but not sure if you're “ready” to hire help? Chelsea Benkner, founder of Outwork Collective, shares how her own struggle to find reliable, travel-specific support led her to build a VA firm designed specifically for advisors. Learn which tasks are worth outsourcing (think admin-heavy, non-revenue work like itineraries, CRMs, inbox management, and trip audits), what should stay on your plate, and how the right support can even help generate more revenue behind the scenes. Chelsey also talks about the systems you need in place before hiring, why most people get outsourcing wrong, and how to set your VA up for success from day one.After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHEAbout Chelsey Benkner:Chelsey is the founder of Outwork Collective, a virtual assistant agency built specifically for the travel industry. As the owner of Ready Jet Go Travels, she saw firsthand that most “VA support” didn't understand the realities of the travel industry. Outwork Collective was created to change that by training VAs in the systems, workflows, and risk management that travel businesses actually require. Her mission is simple: help travel advisors stop drowning in operations and start running stronger businesses.outworkcollective.comfacebook.com/outworkcoinstagram.com/outwork.collectiveToday we will cover:(01:30) Why advisors need support(04:35) IC vs employee VAs: what you need to know(08:30) What you should never outsource in your business(19:15) Inbox management + communication audits(29:35) Project-based vs ongoing support(36:25) Biggest mistakes when hiring a VARecourses mentioned in this Episode:Episode 195. Hot Take: Stop Looking For The Magic Unicorn HireEpisode 196. Enhancing Itineraries With Custom Experiences with Rob KeenClient Communication TemplatesSOP Template & ChecklistProfitable Proposals MasterclassFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCs

Robin and Jennifer challenge the idea that you need one-on-one coaching to grow your business. After investing in coaching themselves, they give their honest feedback on when it's actually helpful and when it becomes a distraction. They explain why most advisors don't have a knowledge problem, but a focus and execution problem, and how accountability, peer support, and existing resources can often deliver better results than high-ticket programs. If you've been considering coaching or feeling stuck in your business, this episode will help you refocus on what actually moves the needle!Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHEFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Jennifer talks with Sarah Eppler, a Niche community member who used the Seven Figure Sales tools to rebuild her service suite around real profitability. After digging into the numbers and realizing her pricing didn't reflect her actual time or overhead, Sarah reached out with questions, leading to a deeper look at how to make the math actually work. In this episode, they break down how to work backwards from your income goal, track your time, and price your services based on real labor, trip complexity, and client expectations. Sarah shares what surprised her most when mapping out her time, how she restructured and raised her trip design fees, and how that clarity completely changed her confidence in client conversations. You'll also hear how to qualify clients upfront, reduce time drains like endless revisions and drawn-out timelines, and stop over-delivering in ways that hurt your bottom line.After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHEAbout Sarah Eppler:Sarah is the founder of Sarah Eppler Travel, a luxury travel agency specializing in exclusive, meticulously planned experiences for busy professionals and their families. Before launching her business, she spent over 20 years as a marketing leader with various professional services and media companies, building revenue-generating marketing functions that aligned go-to-market strategies with how people actually buy. She brings that same commercial rigor to conversations about the foundational work that drives a profitable service business — knowing your audience, nailing your positioning, and building a pricing strategy rooted in real numbers.sarahepplertravel.cominstagram.com/sarahepplertravelToday we will cover:(02:45) Sarah's career pivot from B2B marketing to travel advisor(05:30) Why doing the math matters; new packages and pricing(12:40) Client reactions to charging fees(16:00) Should you put your pricing on your website?(22:40) Time tracking reality check; mapping your buyer's journey(30:10) Nice-to-haves vs. must-haves in your process(35:10) What Sarah would do differentlyRecourses mentioned in this Episode:Seven Figure SalesFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offFlytographer - Earn commission on professional vacation photographyTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCs

Thinking about switching host agencies or going independent? In this Hot Take, Robin and Jennifer break down the difference between travel advisor responsibilities and host agency responsibilities, and why changing hosts just because another offers different perks isn't always the answer. They talk through what hosts actually provide behind the scenes, what advisors should be building on their own, and the questions to ask before deciding if independence is the right next step. Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → JOIN NICHEResources mentioned in this episode:Episode 79. Host Agency Culture: Finding The Perfect Fit For Your Travel Business with Stephanie LeeFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Luxury travel advisor Gia Lee started her business with no clients, no track record, and no industry experience. One year later, she scaled to over $2M in sales. In this episode, Gia shares what happened when she decided to stop dabbling and truly go all in. From investing in branding before she had a single client to hiring help earlier than most advisors would, she walks through the decisions that helped her build momentum fast. Gia also opens up about the less glamorous side of rapid growth: the late nights, the sacrifices, and the mindset shift required to bet on yourself when no one else has proof yet. It's an honest look at what it really takes to start from scratch and build something that works.After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → JOIN NICHEAbout Gia Lee:Gia was born in South Korea, raised in the Philippines, and has lived everywhere from Salamanca, Spain to London, UK and Madison, Wisconsin. Today, she calls the Chicago suburbs home, where she balances life as a wife and mother to three wonderfully busy girls. With a truly global upbringing, she brings an international perspective to everything she does. Her background has kept her closely connected to emerging trends in fashion, food, design, and most importantly, travel. As the Founder of The Booking Club, an affiliate of Embark Beyond, she blends cultural fluency with elevated travel expertise to curate meaningful, design-forward experiences for her clients around the world.thebookingclubtravel.cominstagram.com/thebookingclubToday we will cover:(02:30) Meet Gia: from food business to luxury fashion styling(05:40) Going all in as a travel advisor(10:45) The tools she used to start her business(15:40) Standing out with social proof(21:00) DIY branding and building a luxury aesthetic(27:00) Creating meaningful client surprises and memorable moments(32:00) The real sacrifices behind rapid business growthRecourses mentioned in this Episode:Free Workshop: Defining Your Non-Negotiable BoundariesClient Communication TemplatesEpisode 191. Hot Take: You Need A CRMFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% offTravel Collection - Connect and learn more about TC's DMCs

Apartments and Airbnbs might seem like a great option for clients traveling with groups, but they can quickly become an advisor's biggest headache. In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin share real stories of what can go wrong when advisors don't control the accommodations, including last-minute cancellations, fake listings, and even a situation that cost Jennifer $5,000 to fix. You'll learn why privately owned rentals often create more risk than reward, how misaligned expectations can derail a trip, and what advisors should do when clients insist on booking their own accommodations.Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep201&utm_content=NicheFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Many business owners still think SEO is about keywords and blog posts. But AI has completely changed how people search. Today's search results aren't just links. They're summaries generated by tools like Google AI, ChatGPT, and other platforms that pull information from across the internet. Which means if your business isn't showing up in those sources, potential clients may never find you. In this episode, Lauren Kutschke of Salted Pages explains how search is evolving and what travel advisors need to know to stay visible online. Learn how AI is changing search behavior, why website traffic may actually decrease but lead quality can increase, and the simple SEO strategies that can help advisors get discovered by the right clients!Want to go deeper on this topic? Join Lauren on April 9th inside the Niche community! Hands-On SEO: How To Research And Apply Keywords And Optimize Your Website → JOIN NICHEAbout Lauren Kutschke:Lauren is an SEO copywriter and web designer who makes waves for salt-of-the-earth brands from Alaska to the Amalfi Coast. She provides 100% human-written content and tasteful designs to ensure memorable websites that rank online and book the right clients. She has over a decade of experience and a roster of 500+ brands. Away from the keyboard, she enjoys walking her dog, dining alfresco at vegetarian restaurants and traveling — ideally in a sailboat, but usually via airplane.saltedpages.cominstagram.com/saltedpagesGrab the AI Search ChecklistToday we will cover:(02:45) Meet Lauren Kutschke of Salted Pages(05:00) Why good copy matters more than ever in an AI world(09:20) SEO basics crash course(16:35) How website copy is evolving for modern search(23:40) Why transparency and authorship matter for AI search(28:15) Where advisors should focus their SEO efforts first(32:30) Blog dates and evergreen URLs; SEO myths(39:40) SEO vs social media for lead generationRecourses mentioned in this Episode:Free Workshop: Defining Your Non-Negotiable BoundariesClickUp Business Hub TemplateFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Moving fast in business can cost you. In this Hot Take, Jennifer shares two expensive mistakes from her early travel advisor days and the systems she built to prevent them from happening again. From auditing itineraries to working with the right suppliers and getting client sign off, this episode is a reminder that slowing down is often what protects your profit, reputation, and sanity.After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep199&utm_content=NicheGet the Client Communication Templates → https://www.tiquehq.com/client-experience-templatesFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

Thinking about launching a group trip? Before you pick a destination and start marketing it, listen to this! Megan Grant Pederson of Cherish Tours shares exactly what it takes to create, price, sell, and host profitable small group travel. From contract negotiations and attrition clauses to margin strategy, launch timelines, early bird pricing, and the real costs most advisors overlook, this episode is your crash course in doing group travel the right way. If you've ever thought, “I plan trips all the time. How hard could group travel be?” this episode will give you the clarity (and caution) you need before you dive in!After the episode, come continue the conversation inside the Niche community where we share real advisor strategies, trainings, and support. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep198&utm_content=NicheAbout Megan Grant Pederson:Megan is the Founder & Chief Memory Creator of Cherish Tours, a women-centered travel company she has built and operated since 2021. With a background in conference planning and a passport full of 45+ countries (including 10+ solo trips), she believes deeply that travel has the power to make a difference in our world and directly support the economic empowerment of women. Megan brings hands-on expertise in sustainable tourism, women-owned global businesses, and creating meaningful small-group journeys that inspire confidence, connection, and transformation.Interest Form: gocherishtours.activehosted.com/f/25gocherishtours.cominstagram.com/gocherishtoursToday we will cover:(05:30) Known groups vs. resell models(10:20) Pricing strategy: margin, attrition & paying yourself(15:05) Why most group trips fail(25:25) DIY itineraries vs. DMCs(35:00) How to launch a trip(38:40) Touchpoints before departure(45:15) Collecting feedback before departure(48:30) Advisor partnerships and FAMsFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQThanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors:Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off

Awards look impressive, but they are not the true measure of a thriving business. In this spicy Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin unpack the pressure to chase industry recognition, the relationship dynamics behind many awards, and why referrals, revenue, and client trust matter far more. They also share how to approach awards strategically, what judges are really looking for inside applications, and why tracking clear metrics makes the biggest difference. If you're feeling discouraged watching others collect accolades, this episode will help you refocus on what actually moves your business forward. Hit play for the pep-talk you didn't know you needed!Have a topic you'd like discussed in a future Hot Take? Join the Niche Community and submit your questions anytime through the form on the platform. → https://www.tiquehq.com/niche/?utm_source=Tique_Talks&utm_medium=Show_notes&utm_campaign=Ep197&utm_content=NicheFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ