Travel Agent Achievers - To Educate, Encourage and Empower Travel Professionals

AI isn't here to replace travel advisors, it's here to support you. In this episode, Ros chats with travel researcher, futurist, and AI strategist Bronwyn White about how to use human-first AI tools to streamline your content, save time, and attract high-value clients. With over 30 years in the industry (Qantas, Google, Tourism Australia), Bronwyn shares: How AI can save you hours on marketing What travellers really want (and how to speak their language) The biggest mistakes advisors make with AI How to turn your expertise into “ungoogleable” content that converts You'll walk away with actionable ideas to use AI in your business without sounding robotic and why now is the time to step up and stand out. Grab all the details, links and connect with us at: www.travelagentachievers.com/97

In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Claire Baines, CEO of Hands Across the Water and an absolute powerhouse when it comes to creating experiences that truly matter. Claire isn't your typical travel professional, but her journey from the world of corporate events to leading one of the most impactful experience-based charities is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into her story on how a passion for events and a single moment of saying “yes” to a charity bike ride led her to a life and career filled with purpose, connection, and heart. Claire opens up about the challenges and joys of running a purpose-driven organisation, sharing how she balances strategy and heart as she leads a team across multiple countries. She talks candidly about the pressure of sustaining a charity through global upheaval, and how resilience, creativity, and a strong sense of community helped Hands Across the Water not just survive, but thrive during the toughest times. We explore the magic that keeps people coming back year after year for their immersive experiences in Thailand, and how the human connections formed on these journeys create memories and impact that last a lifetime. If you've ever wondered how to infuse more meaning into your travel business, or how you can make a genuine difference while still running a successful operation, Claire's insights will leave you feeling motivated and full of ideas. We also chat about systems, scaling, and the importance of never losing sight of the personal touch, even as you grow. Whether you're dreaming of leading your own group trip, looking for new ways to give back, or just need a reminder of the power of community, this episode is for you.   Make sure you check out all the resources, links and details at: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/96  

In this deeply inspiring episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Ros welcomes Peter Baines OAM, a remarkable leader whose journey from crisis zones to creating a life-changing legacy will leave you feeling motivated and hopeful. Peter shares his incredible story, starting as a forensic investigator responding to some of the world's most devastating disasters, including the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in Thailand. It was in the aftermath of this tragedy that Peter's life took a transformative turn. Witnessing the unimaginable loss and heartbreak, he felt a calling to do more, leading him to create Hands Across the Water, a charity that has since raised over $40 million to support vulnerable children and provide them with education, opportunities, and hope for the future. Throughout their conversation, Peter and Roslyn explore the power of resilience, the importance of leading with purpose, and how small, meaningful actions can create a ripple effect of change. Peter's insights into leadership during times of crisis and his unwavering commitment to sustainability and long-term impact will resonate with anyone striving to make a difference in their work or life. This episode is more than a story, it's a reminder of the incredible things we can achieve when we align our actions with our values. Whether you're a travel professional, a business leader, or someone looking for inspiration, Peter's journey will encourage you to think bigger, act with intention, and create your own lasting legacy. Join us on this journey of hope, leadership, and transformation, and discover how you, too, can build a business and life that aligns with your personal values while making a meaningful impact in the world. Check out full details at: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/95  

Burnout, boundaries, and building a business you love. In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, I'm joined by Sammi Jaeger. Life strategist, business consultant, and creator of the “Fuelled Up Life” framework. Sammi shares her journey from burnout to rebuilding a values-led life and business, and her insights are something every travel advisor can benefit from. We talk about: Recognising burnout and how to respond to it The power (and challenge) of setting boundaries Why aligning your business with your personal values leads to stronger relationships and a more fulfilling life Sammi's “8 Tanks” framework – a practical tool to help you check in with yourself and create harmony across all areas of your life This episode is filled with real, honest conversation and simple strategies you can use to take better care of yourself, and your business, today. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and feel free to share it with a fellow travel professional. Grab all the links and details we talk about on the episode and other resources at: www.travelagentachievers.com/94  

Are you feeling torn in all directions in your travel business? Wearing all the hats from sales and marketing to admin and client service? You're not alone, and in this episode, Ros is diving into what she'd focus on first if she were starting her travel business all over again. From building solid sales foundations and understanding your ideal client, to avoiding time-wasting distractions and learning how to set intentional business goals. This episode is packed with real-world advice from a seasoned advisor who's been where you are and continues to show up every day for her clients in her travel business. Just like you are too. Whether you're brand new to travel or looking to reset and refocus, this episode will help you: Set clear goals that actually matter Prioritise the right things for growth Avoid shiny object syndrome Understand why surrounding yourself with the right people is a game changer Ros also shares her personal journey of building a sustainable business she loves, and why The Achievers Mastermind might be the next right step for you too. Check out the resources she mentions at: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/93

Have you ever wondered how people juggle growing businesses, family life, and everything in between? In this special behind-the-scenes episode, Roslyn pulls back the curtain and shares a real, unfiltered look into a day in her life as a travel business owner, mentor, and busy mum. From 6 AM starts at the pool to client emergencies, project meetings, group trips, and life admin (hello, laundry and school runs!), Roslyn shows how systems, sales focus, and smart planning help her manage multiple businesses without burning out. You'll hear insights into her personal routines, business structures, and the small daily habits that fuel her success, all while staying grounded, energised, and passionate about helping travel professionals thrive. If you've ever thought, "How do they do it all?" this episode is for you. Get inspired to simplify your days, set clear priorities, and create a travel business that supports the life you truly want. This episode was recorded throughout her actual work day, so it's real, unfiltered and honest.  If you love this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. ✨ When you leave a written review, it helps more travel professionals discover this podcast and grow their businesses too! Thank you for your support. Learn More About Travel Agent Achievers: www.travelagentachievers.com

In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Ros chats with returning guest and founder of Travel Agent Finder, Anna Shannon. Sharing the real power behind gathering client feedback and why we need to move beyond the word testimonial. Together, Ros and Anna explore why Travel Professionals often hesitate to ask for reviews, what social proof really means, and how client feedback is one of the most powerful (and FREE!) marketing tools you have available to you in your travel business especially when the world feels uncertain. With insights into: Why the word “testimonial” can feel awkward, and what to say instead How client stories become a trust bridge for new enquiries Where social proof fits into SEO, online presence, and visibility Real stats: how Travel Agent Finder generates leads through feedback and credibility The “Google Yourself” Exercise every Travel Advisor should do How to start collecting feedback today without the overwhelm This is a must listen episode for any travel business advisor wanting to build authority, increase conversions, and grow a sustainable travel business through relationships and results. Not just algorithms. Whether you're new to feedback systems or ready to take your visibility to the next level, this conversation will inspire you to take action now. Each month, Ros guides a community of driven Travel Professionals through one key area of their business through The Achievers Mastermind. This month's theme? Social Proof that Sells. Next month? Repeat & Referral Strategies. If you're ready to build a travel business you love, with clarity, support, and systems - grab the details and click here to join us inside The Achievers Mastermind.

Sales can feel overwhelming for travel advisors, but it doesn't have to be that way. Building a business involves sales of course! In this episode, Nicole O'Sullivan, a sales expert with 20+ years of experience (mostly in the travel industry), shares how to take the fear out of selling and build genuine client connections. Learn how to master the art of listening, overcome the fear of rejection, and confidently ask for the sale. Packed with actionable tips, this episode will help you grow your travel business sustainably and profitably. Don't miss it! For full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode, visit: www.travelagentachievers.com/90

In today's competitive digital landscape, having a strong online presence is essential to attract and retain customers. This week on the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Ros is joined by Wendy Addinsall from RedGrape Social, a digital marketing expert who helps travel advisors master social media, email marketing, and more. Wendy brings her years of experience from working with brands like Royal Caribbean and Virgin Australia, where she developed her skills in promoting luxury travel experiences. Wendy shares practical insights on how travel advisors can boost their online visibility. She explains why relying on generic supplier content doesn't work and how creating personalised, engaging posts can make all the difference. Wendy also dives into the importance of consistency across digital platforms, showing how a well-rounded marketing strategy—including SEO, email campaigns, and social media—can build stronger connections with clients. Throughout the episode, Wendy highlights key strategies, such as using reels to reach new audiences and setting up automated email sequences to stay top of mind. She also discusses the common challenges advisors face when it comes to digital marketing and offers actionable advice on how to overcome them. If you're looking to improve your digital marketing game and attract more clients, tune in for Wendy's top tips and learn how to make your business stand out online. Grab all the details, including how to connect with Wendy at : www.travelagentachievers.com/89  

Are Travel Business events on your calendar? I'm sure you have LOTS of travel events in your calendar.. And in this episode I share why I have made them an important part of my yearly planning sessions. Even though you may think attending a 2-3 day business conference or event.. It's time AWAY from the office and as a Travel Business Owner you may be on call to your clients 'all the time' I get it. I'm like you. However by prioritsing to put some Travel Business, Supplier, consortia and other events on your 'must do' day to day calendars you can also HELP your business grow. Ros shares how the last 12-18 months have been filled with BIG events and why they have changed the trajactory of her global travel business and why she recommends they are added to your plan too.  You may get asked to attend supplier events on a regular basis, which can all add up and seem overwhelming. For Ros, dedicating time to attend smaller individualised sessions is important, however she is much more selective.  Check out a few events that as Travel Business Owners and part of the Travel Agent Achievers Community, we are looking forward to. www.travelagentachievers.com/events

Managing your business finances is important for any entrepreneur. But it can also feel overwhelming if it's not a natural skill.  In the latest episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Ros chats with Victoria Berry, who's an accountant and knows her stuff about making money work for your business. Together, they talk about how to handle your money without all the complicated jargon. Victoria, the brain behind Bookkeeper Hub, breaks down tricky financial ideas into easy steps. She is a trained professional in the "Profit First" method. It's a system that can help business owners struggling with money flow. It's not just about keeping your books tidy; it's about making sure your business makes you money too. "Profit First" is about splitting up your income into different pots. You've got money for profit, your own pay, taxes, and running costs. This way, you're not just reacting to money problems; you're planning for them. Victoria also talks about why it's important to understand how healthy your business is financially, not just doing what the rules say. She uses real-life examples to show how changing your money habits and using "Profit First" can make a big difference to your travel business and your life. This episode is packed with great advice for travel agents wanting to get a handle on their finances. Whether you're trying to figure out cash flow, want to make more money, or just want a business that works for you, Ros and Victoria have got you covered. So, tune in to this chat and start taking charge of your finances to make your travel business a success! Grab all the information and further details discussed at: www.travelagentachievers.com/87  

In this insightful episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Rebecca Flint, a distinguished Canva Certified Expert whose extensive background in design and branding offers invaluable insights for travel professionals seeking to establish a compelling visual brand identity for their businesses. Rebecca's journey is a testament to the power of discipline and strategic planning, skills she honed as a high-level gymnast and later applied to her ventures in the business world. With over two decades of experience in design, coupled with her expertise in community building and brand coaching, Rebecca's story is an example of how diverse skills can converge to create a meaningful impact. During our conversation, Rebecca dispels the misconception that branding is solely about logos or visual elements. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a cohesive visual brand identity across all platforms to establish trust and loyalty among clients. This consistency is not just about aesthetics; it's about aligning your brand's visual elements with its core values and message. Rebecca also shares insights into her upcoming program aimed at empowering business owners to master Canva for creating visually appealing and consistent content. This episode serves as a practical guide for travel professionals navigating the emotional and practical aspects of building a brand that truly represents who they are and what they stand for. It's an invitation to take action, to start somewhere, and to continuously strive towards creating a brand identity that resonates with their audience and themselves. For more insights and resources to help your travel business grow, visit www.travelagentachievers.com/86  where we provide continuous updates, valuable content specific to Travel Business Owners and also resources and links to what we discussed.   

"You really can't plan, organise, be efficient, or effective when you are coming from a place of chaos." Recently traveling over the Christmas period I learnt a thing or two and I am the first to admit my own faults. (I too am no stranger to overwhelm, taking on too much, not saying NO often enough, valuing myself and not taking a break)  I decided only a few months out of the festive season that I needed an 'escape' and to do something different. To spend some quality time with my husband and son doing something we together would look back on in the future.  What I wasn't expecting was some of the additional lessons I learnt from experiencing a new culture and visiting places I hadn't previously had on my bucket list.  In this episode I share the connections, the stories and the lessons learnt.  Also sharing with you some resources to maybe help you on your journey into 2024.  Check out all the details at: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/85 Hang in there, reach out to people that know you, understand you and can relate to what you need. I am so honored to be the Travel Agent Achievers members and community guide and look forward to sharing the journey with you too. 

In this episode I once again had the pleasure of hosting Jaimie Abbott. Many recognise her from her tenure with the Royal Australian Air Force and her role as a politician. Additionally, she's the founder of Paid to Speak. Throughout our conversation, Jaimie has an incredible passion for public speaking and networking she is incredibly skilled at.    Networking has expanded from traditional face-to-face dialogues to the digital domain. Jaimie provided valuable insights on the challenges and common misconceptions of portraying oneself online. A recurring theme is "authenticity" in both professional and personal spheres. Furthermore, Jaimie and I delved into navigating social interactions from the perspectives of both introverts and extroverts. This led to an exploration of the importance of recognising and adapting to diverse personalities during networking situations. The episode is a testament to the immense potential genuine relationships hold in the business landscape and how networking can be part of your Marketing strategy.  For all the links mentioned and additional details check out: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/84

In the insightful episode, Ros had the privilege of speaking with Hayley Osborne, the multi-talented marketer and business owner, who contributed valuable insights into the world of travel marketing. Hayley shared her extensive experience, ranging from working on some of the biggest brands like Jack Daniels and Southern Comfort to running her own fashion label and marketing businesses.   One of the highlights was Hayley's emphasis on the importance of local area marketing, regardless of whether listeners are working from home or have a storefront. She was quoted as saying, "whether you are based at home or whether you have bricks and mortar, you can do the same thing in different ways." Her encouragement to integrate both online and offline strategies provided a refreshing approach for those feeling overwhelmed by social media.   Whether you're interested in content pillars, gorilla marketing, or understanding common mistakes in the travel industry, there's something here for everyone. Don't miss this engaging conversation! On that note, we'd also love to have you in the Achievers in Travel - Facebook group, make sure you join the FREE community. Achievers in Travel - Accountability group. For more on what is happening and upcoming events - check out www.travelagentachievers.com Additional details on this podcast episode can be found at: www.travelagentachievers.com/EP83-with-Hayley-Osborne    

In this thought-provoking episode, Ros shares her insights and personal experiences surrounding the importance of coaches and mentors, especially in the business world. Drawing from her own background, she reflects on her time working at McDonald's as a teenager in Australia and how the organisational structure and community there shaped her. She emphasises the importance of good mentors and people looking out for her, fostering her love for Hospitality and Tourism. She also contrasts her experience with her high school community and highlights how her part-time job became her community and laid the foundation for her views on coaching and mentoring.   Ros dives into the alarming statistics regarding small and medium-sized enterprises in Australia, highlighting how a significant number of these businesses fail within the first few years. She argues that there is often a lack of support for small business owners and draws attention to the difference between how coaches are perceived in sports compared to business. The discussion leads to her personal journey in her travel business and her decision to join a business coaching program called Business Blueprint by Dale Beaumont, despite the five-figure investment. This experience led her to recognize the value of being challenged and having a mentor to guide and inspire.   The episode wraps up with Ros' reflections on why coaching and mentoring are not only important but also essential for personal and professional growth. She acknowledges that the investment in a coach or mentor can be intimidating but emphasises that it can be a game-changer for many. Drawing from her own experience and those of her friends, she encourages listeners to think bigger, challenge their beliefs, and recognise the opportunity coaching and mentoring can provide in various aspects of life. It's a compelling conversation that emphasises the human need for guidance, community, and the courage to grow.   For more information on anything we share inside this podcast, please go to:  https://www.travelagentachievers.com/ Thank you for being a part of our community and travel family.   

In this episode, Roslyn gets together with Glin Bayley from The Value Negotiator for a heart-to-heart discussion. They kicked off the talk highlighting the difference between arguing a point and reaching a deal. Glin makes it clear that negotiation isn't about sticking to your guns, but about finding a common ground and building shared value.   Glin emphasises the importance of focusing on value rather than price.    She gives some great advice to travel experts, encouraging them to really get to know their clients' needs and wishes, and shift the conversation towards what value they're offering, not just what price they're asking.    The goal is to help clients see all the value they're getting, which makes them more at ease with the price tag. Glin believes that when you provide real value, customers are happier and more likely to come back.   Glin also encourages travel professionals to get clear on their goals and their own reasons for doing what they do. She calls for a fresh view of negotiation, urging us all to see it not as a chore, but as a positive and strategic way to build thriving travel businesses that focus on mutual benefits.   Get first access to our latest episodes! If you haven't already, make sure you subscribe to the Travel Agent Achievers podcast. Once you've subscribed, please leave us a written review on iTunes or your favourite podcast platform.  Simply click to give us a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”    If you have any colleagues that this information may be useful for, share an image of this podcast on socials and make sure to tag us! @travelagentachievers  

Business Success. It can mean so many things to so many different people.  In this episode, Roslyn Ranse of Travel Agent Achievers and her guest - Owen Cope, a business strategist and someone whom has been behind the scenes of many successful businesses helping the owners take the next steps discuss the business lifecycle.  They share insights on overcoming challenges, effective prioritisation, and the power of systemised team-building. They tackle common mistakes and reveal how to turn them into strengths through productising your services. Whether you're a seasoned travel business owner, a travelpreneur or just starting out in the travel industry, this episode is packed with strategies to propel your business to new heights. Don't forget to subscribe for resources, tools and access our programs at: https://travelagentachievers.com/.

'Acts of Service' is one of my love languages. Yet - this podcast episode isn't about that..  Stephanie Gries of Travefy and I, Ros, are talking about going above and beyond for travel clients in a way that isn't intrusive, is 'smart' in how we use our time and also delights clients whilst they prepare for and are traveling.  This tool is one that caught my attention during the pandemic. Not only was it one made initially for travellers, but it easy to use and intuitive with how it works. PLUS they are always adding new features and tools to help us as the Travel Experts provide further value for our clients.  Stephanie and I discuss all things systems, how using tools that talk to each other or all in one tools that function well are able to help us as travel advisors focus on what we do best.  Education is important and together we both believe that if you are learning, we want to see you implement.  Check out how Travefy can help you in your travel business with a special discounted offer only for Travel Agent Achievers listeners and members. Use the coupon code: TAA20 for 20% off your first year when purchasing an annual plan, or your first 3 months on the month to month plan.  How are you using systems and tools in your travel business to suprise and delight your clients? Making their life easier as well as yours. What tasks are you able to do for them that will increase their 'love' for you and in turn fill your tank too? :-) 

A conversation that I have had and I want to continue to have is what our roles are within the Travel industry, but also how we can all do better in our businesses and how we can work together to ensure we are strong.  This episode with Brett Jardine, from CATO - the Council or Australian Tour Operators, opens the discussion about the roles we play, the legalities we need to get checked and where associations can help us all come together.  Brett is passionate about helping everyone in their positions and wants to see the industry succeed, and in doing that we need to ensure we tick all the boxes in our roles.  Are you blurring the lines, in your role as a Travel Advisor and the work you may be doing with tour operators? Are you unknowingly acting as a Tour Operator and could potentially fall into trouble without even knowing it? Check out the episode details and more information at: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/78 For resources, tools and more check out:  https://travelagentachievers.com/  

Groups as part of your Travel Business Mix can be very rewarding. You can predict future sales and you can plan a lot of experiences far in advance, which helps with your pipeline.  In this episode I share my own experience as well as the "SYSTEM" and stages behind our Group business success. There is NO one stop shop for every group, however the 5 stages that I share can be replicated and used over and over again so that each group has the same experience with you. It is one of the reasons why we love doing them. I am also giving our 5 Stages away, so make sure you grab the latest FREE resource at the show notes below. Our Achievers Mastermind is open to help you learn more about groups and also in April 2023, we are diving into Marketing and Promoting them to ensure that you fill each experience. (Join up on our website) You get access to all our past training as well as live interaction each month.  Even when you are 'busy' having a system in place can clear your mind and also provide the next step to take action on.. No need to feel the overwhelm of EVERYTHING having to be done at once.  Check out all the details at:  https://www.travelagentachievers.com/77  

Nadine Champion is an inspiring speaker, martial arts teacher and author.  She has dedicated over 35 years of her life to studying martial arts and discovering practical tools for strengthening the mind, developing resilience and building courage. Nadine and Ros discuss how to explore the power of positive affirmations through the “ I am” concept. The results can be striking. The only two rules are to write positive things, so they can't be negative. The exercise is about who you are at your core and getting you to think about your life, how you show up in your life and who you really are.  It's about valuing who we are and what we are able to give and what we do as travel advisors, what we give to our clients and what we share with our clients,it comes back to who we are as ourselves.  In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers podcast, Ros and Nadine talk about how Nadine transformed her life from kickboxer to cancer patient to professional speaker. She shared how she took courage by focusing on mindset, mental and morning routine.  Check out all the details and also Travel Agent finder at:  https://www.travelagentachievers.com/76  

You've hit the ground running, I know. Clients are demanding your attention and time and I am hearing that as 'people pleasers' a number of Travel Advisors are starting to feel the effects of burnout and it's only February!  Did you take time out over the festive period?  Have you had a chance to look at your business and plan for what's ahead?  In this weeks episode I wanted to share what planning CAN do for your business, why it's important, how to overcome some of the challenges and also what action we can take to help us move forward one step at a time. Even when it all feels too much.  There are solutions so hang in there.  Right now is the time to take massive action to avoid the traps and challenges that can take hold and stop you in your tracks when it comes to building the travel business of your dreams.  Make sure you join me or sign up to be notified of the next intake of our Travel Business Accelerator Program HERE: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/foundation  

Managing finances is a part of running a successful travel business. As a business owner, you should be able to track how much your business will make and the financial position you will be in by making the changes that work for your business. In this episode we are going to talk with Melissa Browne, a best-selling author, financial educator and serial entrepreneur who is passionate about helping women, particularly regarding finances and how to stay on track so that you are making profits, staying in business, and can continue doing what you love for years to come. Check out all the details and also more information on Mel and "My Financial Adulting Plan" at:  https://www.travelagentachievers.com/74

We spoke with Kristy in August 2021. Now - 18 months later, it's awesome to check in with Kristy and hear about the progress she has made. When we first chatted on Episode #46 https://www.travelagentachievers.com/episode46 where she shared what it was like starting her business only a few weeks before the world shut and the pandemic hit. To hear the work she has done, the intentional direction and also surrounding herself with others that 'get it' and encourage and support one another is SO SO good to hear! If you are in a place of either overwhelm, lost or want to do things different in 2023, make sure you listen in and share this episode. Kristy is like you and I. A Travel Agent with a passion to help others. She also has learnt that to educate herself with business skills and also lean in and trust the process but invest in herself has certainly seen her soar. For more information on this episode and the things we discuss - head to https://www.travelagentachievers.com/73

Travel Agent Finder was created by Anna Shannon. A Travel Agent pre-covid.  Anna and Ros discuss the idea and concept behind Travel Agent finder and how the need to build something that helped the industry through the pandemic became a passion project.  Travel Agent Achievers Members rave about Travel Agent Finder and how it has drawn clients to them. By showcasing their expertise, knowledge and experience on one platform, with Anna's sole focus to increase visability through a range of marketing activities to help advisors be seen, has proven that when you highlight your expertise and tell people WHAT you LOVE to book and who you work with can help build mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships with clients you love.  In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers podcast, Ros and Anna talk about her path to creating the platform, the struggles and also the celebration when advisors and their clients come together. Highlighting real life examples and talking about the importance of marketing your travel business in many ways, not just one. Check out all the details and also Travel Agent finder at:  www.travelagentachievers.com/72  

Being a ‘mumpreneur' doesn't have to mean choosing between being a business owner and mother. It can mean balancing the demands and stresses of running a business, as well as doing it all from home—being a parent, spouse, and caregiver and anything under the sun.    With everything going on in our lives today, being a Mum and a business owner at the same time are amongst the most dedicated and hard working people out there today.   Tracy Harris is the energetic Founder and head coach of Australia's leading online community and online education platform for mums in business. She is fiercely dedicated to supporting big-hearted women wanting to design their life first and business second – by harnessing the superpower of Instagram as part of a complete digital strategy.   In this episode, Tracy  shares her amazing story on becoming a digital business owner and being a mum. She also talks about how she balanced her role as both parent and business owner, and her tips on how to keep motivated, focused and productive when you have a busy family life.   Tracyand Ros also talk on how to use social media for business. In this era, as one of the quickest, easiest and most affordable ways to grow your online business is through social media.    As travel advisors,  we need to be visible and show off your expertise, to talk about what you do.    It's why Instagram Reels is one component to spreading the word about your business and garnering attention from potential clients.  It can prove to be an effective marketing strategy in growing business.    Join Roslyn and Tracy for this fun and informative chat then go to:  www.travelagentachievers.com/episode71 for all the resources and links to the special offer Tracy has for the TAA listeners. 

Now that we are coming back together in person in addition to all the 'online' work we have been doing, learning how to communicate effectively and with conviction is a skill we can always use.  Public Speaking as Travel Professionals isn't something we can avoid if we want to grow our business too.    In the travel industry, public speaking is one of the most personal ways to reach new clients and potential customers. In order to maximize this tactic, as Travel Advisors, we may need to make sure that we are as comfortable as possible when delivering a presentation or speaking to our clients, both new and existing.     Jaimie Abbott, our guest for today is an award-winning media professional and international keynote speaker. She has spent two decades in the industry working as a Radio and TV Journalist, Political Media Adviser, Managing Director of her own public speaking and media training company and a Communications Adviser for the Royal Australian Air Force.    In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Jaimie shares her expertise in public speaking and gives tips on how to deal with the fear of rejection.    Public speaking has its challenges, regardless of how comfortable you are talking to groups of people. With the addition of social media, along with the introduction of new forms of technology in presenters, public speaking has become even more challenging.   As a travel business owner, it is vital to make a personal connection with your clients. Confidence is the key when speaking in front of an audience. Jaimie also encouraged people  to simplify their language because people's attention spans are not what they used to be.    For many people, public speaking is a fear and something they would rather avoid than learn how to do well. However, with simple techniques and doing some practice, this fear can be overcome.  Grab all the details and links to Jaimie and her programs and social pages at https://www.travelagentachievers.com/episode70

Everyone has a different approach to learning, there is no denying its importance ― it makes you adhere to new and better work processes and systems.    Some people like to learn and absorb, whilst others, learn and take action. Risking trying something new or different to move forward. Sometimes it works, other times it doesn't. Learning and implementing however is about growth. Growth for you as a business owner and taking action to build the travel business you desire.     For travel business owners, learning new things is something we are ALWAYS doing.  Whether it is supplier training or what's working on social media at the moment.    However learning and taking action on the things you learn I find at 2 different things.    Learning and Implementing need to come together to become more than just a way forward; it also helps make sure that we can stay competitive in today's global business marketplace.   In this episode, I asked one of the Travel Agent Achievers members to share her incredible story about her journey and experience in her travel business.    Holly Velardo has over 20 years of experience in the Travel Industry providing tailor made itineraries with the best possible service and expert advice.   With her passion for the industry and love for her clients, she opened her own Travel Agency almost 5 years ago.    During the pandemic and when the world closed down, she decided that she finally had more time to work on her travel  business. She joined Travel Agent Achievers to have things in place and to keep building and reaching goals.   One thing that she loves about the Travel Agent Achievers community is the SUPPORT and ACCOUNTABILITY not only just coming from me but from her co-members as she said.    She also shares that it is so important to put together the systems and processes in business to get things organized. Once she put a few parts and pieces of automation into her travel business, it has taken away some of the administrative tasks, which has allowed her to focus on building her business.    As she has implemented what she has learnt, she has also seen incredible results in her business from a sales perspective, but also growth in size of her business. Allowing her to do more of what she loves and with those she loves as well.    Ros & Holly discuss why it's important to invest in yourself, your learning and business to enrich your skills and knowledge, stay up-to-date, and move forward.  Learning from your experiences, both successful and unsuccessful ones. Learning from your colleagues who are experts in their own fields.  Holly is now working on specialised groups and encourages everyone to listen in, learn where you can and from people that ‘get' you and take action. You won't regret it. Grab all the details on Holly & Travel Agent Achievers at:  www.travelagentachievers.com/episode69

Your travel business, just like any living thing, has its ups and downs throughout the day. It's impossible in my opinion to be highly productive all the time. (Though I am sure you try to be)  When it comes to success, I firmly believe that to achieve success, accountability is vital.  Of course, there are some people that hold themselves accountable, however surrounding yourself with others that are all working towards their goals too, can shed additional light on what changes are needed in order to succeed​.  Accountability can help you make decisions that will lead you to your long-term goals and desires in your travel business. Accountability can also stretch you and give you the nudge you may need to show up and do the work to get there.   Your part in the process is being accountable for what you can control, and accepting what you cannot.  It is important when we look at accountability that we take ownership of where we are at the moment and also where we want to be. Because without ownership, accountability can't sustain itself.   I have seen this time and time again over the last few years with the hundreds of business owners that I work with. It's one of the reasons why I love that as part of our Travel Business Accelerator Program, we talk about and design our “Vision” the goals that we want for the future of our business as well as the additional extension of our “Achievers” Mastermind.  As a collective we are there and can hold space for one another. We can see when one is struggling and surround them with the right words. We are also able to celebrate and cheer each other on - chasing those goals and dreams and showing up to do the work and share through accountability our progress! At the end of the day, only you can determine what you consider success, and finding a suitable way to pinpoint your own goals is essential for reaching them.  Accountability can lead to success in ways that you never thought possible before. If you need a group that supports you and your dreams, that you can show up and do the work ON your business and be ready to soar, make sure you check out the Travel Agent Achievers Programs and community. www.travelagentachievers.com

Being a travel business owner is both exciting and challenging. Some days you feel full of energy, while other days it feels like the effort is draining you. Thus, traveling is a great way to take a break from your business and recharge your mind.    I'll admit I am a little bit obsessed with business and especially my travel business. Because I LOVE IT! However taking a break every now and then, even just removing myself from my ‘office' can really change my headspace.    In this episode, I shared what I personally learn from traveling whilst still running my business. Discovering new places and cultures, tasting new foods, seeing the sites, and meeting interesting people is what opens my eyes to the world and is a great reminder of why I do what I do.    Throughout my travels, I've learned how important it is for me to get out of my comfort zone. I have been able to have a space for clarity and creativity and to think about different things that are in my day-to-day life.   Traveling allows you to get outside and see things from a different angle than you're used to. It makes you use your mind in a way that you wouldn't have before. It is truly  one of the most enjoyable experiences for me, even if I am still juggling life and an office. Traveling can allow you to escape from reality for a moment. Helping  you realize  that there is “another world” out there. Being in a beautiful place or experiencing something “once in a lifetime” is a great catalyst for some deep thinking.   The opportunity to travel again and regularly this year has given me that opportunity to get clarity, a clear mind, and be ready to go. The lessons I learned from traveling are something that will impact me for the rest of my life. So wherever you are in this world, I want to encourage you to travel, experience different things, take the time for you to look at what makes you happy.  Looking to revamp your travel business? Check out: https://www.travelagentachievers.com/

In this new era of the COVID-19 pandemic, how do you navigate this new era? Everybody is busy, so how can you get your clients engaged?   Over the last couple of years in particular, Travel Business owners have increasingly turned to online marketing tools to help them engage with their clients.  Looking for a way to connect with their clients. Webinars have been around for years for suppliers, however in this discussion with Charlie, we talk about the importance of them, their relevance moving forward and what YOU can do to engage your audience and also suppliers with them in your Travel Business.  Charlie Trevena, is an online webinar host expert and  has been in travel and tourism for about 20 years. She is the incredible founder and stress-free webinar host of destinationwebinars.com.au. She has been hosting webinars since 2011.   In this episode, Charlie discusses and shares tips for hosting online webinars. Especially how to keep advisors motivated or engaged with their training. It is insightful, a fun conversation and finally Ros & Charlie get the opportunity to share their experience with you.  Make sure you stay up to date with the podcast by subscribing and downloading our free resources and checklists to help you with your travel business and let us know what you want to learn about to help your travel business grow. https://travelagentachievers.com/  

I'm a pretty relaxed kinda person. I don't normally get worked up over things and I NEVER explode or react in a way that would normally be considered an outburst. Let's just say I am cool under pressure (it's actually where I work best.)  However, over the last few weeks I have had a few conversations with people where I knew there was undertones, yet at the time I didn't react. I have now been thinking further about it and its really bothering me.  SO - I have decided I need to speak up about it, because it doesn't help anyone if I keep quiet.  This, I hope helps others out there that are feeling as though they may not belong, that feel as though they got themselves a 'job' when they started their own travel business, or that feel as though they want to change, grow, build, create, do something different, but not sure how to or why.  I am here to support, educate, inspire and encourage those in the Travel and Tourism Industry that want to build a business that is a business. Building something that gives you life, energy, excitement and you don't become a slave to it.  I don't wait you to be working till midnight and not having time to sleep, take care of your health, spend time with your kids/partner and not travel or have a holiday.  You don't have to be grinding and burning the candle at both ends to build the business you desire. It takes courage, guts, determination, resilience, but also action. It isn't easy, or everyone would do it. I know you started your Travel Business for a reason, let's rebuild together. 

As a travel business owner/advisor/experience creator, our goal is always to create seamless and memorable travel experiences for our clients. However, what happens when we have a lead who seems like an unlikely prospect? Should we reject them? Or see the opportunity in every business interaction?   Our guest,  Maree Kirkpatrick is a sales trainer and business strategist with over 15 years of experience negotiating millions of dollars in sales for numerous industries. She and I have been working together over the last month or so putting some different ideas and perspectives on sales for travel advisors talking about different languages to use, and how we can work together to get the ideal clients.   In this episode, Maree and Ros discuss understanding who are your ideal clients.  Understanding who you want to be working with and why you want to be working with those people. From there we can make that decision to say, "Yes, I want to work with them." or "No, I don't." If I don't take them on as a client, that's okay. But make sure when you say no, that you're also still looking after them. You can also help them find people within your community that might be the right fit for them.   We also discuss the importance of implementing a sales process that allows you to understand who your prospective clients are, what they want, and if they are ideal customers for your business. The sales process then flows into your sales strategy, so you can remain focused on one thing at a time, instead of being pulled in different directions and becoming overwhelmed by all the work.   We want your travel business to run smoothly and easily, because work should be something that makes you feel good instead of exhausted and overwhelmed.   Your Travel Business can be a separate box that you can step out from and you can step into. Stand in your power and know what you want to be known for, what makes you unique, and what makes you stand out.   Make sure you stay up to date with the podcast by subscribing and downloading our free resources and checklists to help you with your travel business and let us know what you want to learn about to help your travel business grow. www.travelagentachievers.com

“Mindset” - A word more recently thrown around - quite a lot. I'm not sure how it sits with me yet. Yes - we have control over our thoughts, though if we are to work on our mind and the thoughts we have, I also think that someone who specialises in this area should be consulted as it is a very powerful topic.    I take this topic very seriously as mental health is something that is not a foreign topic in my family. When I want help in a particular area, I see a specialist. My Nanna always use to say to me… “Your health is one of your most important assets in life, make sure to see the best Dr's as you only get one chance at this life.”    Which is why I wanted to ensure that by bringing up this topic of the mind, it was dealt with care and in the right forum with a qualified professional.    Not only is she a beautiful human, whom I could easily spend hours with and we forget the time (true story of a 3am finish with no alcohol involved) Clare is a Psychologist with many years experience working with business owners of all different sized companies small and large.    Clare and her partner and team have created an incredible process and system to help business owners all over the world take a look at who they are, potentially dig into the WHY and also work towards solutions and growth and how to get there with their tools Values Pendulum and Thought Code.  In this Travel Agent Achievers Podcast episode Clare and I talk about the power of choice. It is really interesting, thought provoking and I am thrilled she has also agreed to come into our Achievers Mastermind several times this year to help our Travel Business Owners work towards their goals through working on their mind too. (Want to know more about this? Send me a DM and I will let you in on it.)    I'd love to know your thoughts once you listen. Enjoy the conversation and ideas that come from it. Ros xo    Listen here: www.travelagentachievers.com/episode63 

At the centre of a travel business is the service provided to clients. Nurturing relationships, building trust. One of the things I love about Travel Businesses is that the personal connections we have can create opportunities for others to fulfill their travel dreams. Helping people.    Our guest for this episode is one of the Hospitality Industries most sought after speakers and trainers. She educates, advises and evaluates venues, management staff and ground floor operators to champion the Customer Service Experience.    In our travel businesses this in turn can help grow through referrals and repeat clients.    Michelle Pascoe founded one of Australia's most respected training companies, Optimum Operating Procedures Pty Ltd (OOPS).    In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Michelle provides insight, big ah ha moments and reminders to help us create an unforgettable customer experience for our travel clients.    Expectation. Experience. Evaluation.    We talk about these 3 E's behind creating an incredible customer service experience. Listen in to learn more about each of these areas and how you can implement strategies to assist in creating magical experiences for your travel clients.    Michelle also discusses with Ros about “FLOW”.  What this is, and how it can help you improve your approach to handling your business. It's important to make sure that we make the most of every guest, every visit and every experience.    With all that's happening at the moment in the travel industry, especially with more borders opening, your clients need you. They are not coming to you just for the service that you provide but because of the person and the business that gives them an amazing experience.    Make sure you stay up to date with the podcast by subscribing and downloading our free resources and checklists to help you with your travel business and let us know what you want to learn about to help your travel business grow. https://travelagentachievers.com/  

Which is you in your travel business at the moment? We've just received the best news this week here in Australia and I couldn't help but feel so excited and happy! Finally, after two years, we are reopening our shores to international visitors again! Whoo-hoo! A part of this brings a lot of joy but there's also a part of me that has a bit of anxiety rising.  With the world opening up, there's still a big shift in our clients and how they're feeling.  Yes, we are all happy but there is also this level and feeling of uncertainty. There are so many questions going on in our clients' heads about the 'NEW' kind of traveling.  Are you ready to take these on?  Are you ready to stand up as the expert in your own field of genius and be the travel advisor that your clients need? In this episode, I wanted to reflect with you on a couple of things that I've learned over the last few weeks, as well as give you some ideas on things that you can be doing right now to prepare your travel agent business as the world starts open.  This is the perfect time to be connecting with your clients. Let them know about the recent news updates, what's happening in the travel world and how you can help them. Continue to build those relationships.    There are tons of ways to show up as an expert in our area. I talked about these in this episode as well. But one of the most popular ways to connect with our clients is through social media.   If you feel like you haven't been visible on social media lately and you need the structure and system to consistently show up in front of your ideal clients, join us in our FREE 5-Day Live Training starting next Monday, 14th of February 2022.   Together, with a bunch of amazing travel professionals, we are going to work on our structure in order to be visible again.  Get excited. I know it's been hard, but you're coming through this time. We believe in you. 

Going out on your own as a travel business owner, just before the world shut down, was not something that could be predicted.    Belle Goldie had worked in the industry for over 20years and had decided towards the end of 2019 that she wanted to make a change. To go out as a work from home Travel Agent. And what a change that was. From the hustle of an office to the quiet of a home environment.    As COVID-19 hit Australian shores and the borders closed, Belle worked around the clock like all travel advisors to bring her clients home, repatriate them to their home ports and consolidate hundreds of credits and refunds for her clients, just like you!    Not eligible for any government support, as she hadn't been in business long enough to ‘qualify' Belle was determined not to give up. Taking on a second job to help support the family and riding the roller coaster of emotions day in and out, working on the train for her travel business and travel clients whilst holding down a second job was not what she thought would happen to her dream.    After a fall at work, shoulder reconstruction and being in hospital recovering, it gave Belle the opportunity to come back to her “Why” and she knew that Travel was her life.    The travel bug hit as a 22 year old and having a supportive husband and family, her travel business was her heart. She knew she had to keep going. With family support, Belle poured everything into her travel business and joined “itravel” as a Franchisee - itravel Penrith.    The doors opened, she was thrilled with the response and her clients rebooking travel and then the Omicron variant burst onto the scene. Once again, closures, uncertainty, illness swept the world and Belle was facing another hurdle.  Determined and looking for answers, Belle started a Movement. (ATAG - Aussie Take Action Group for Travel Advisors as a Facebook Group.)    What was to be and had to be cancelled due to the Omicron outbreak were a series of rallies. This however became bigger when a national day of action was confirmed - Tuesday 25th April 2022, whereby travel Advisors from around Australia met with local government offices and members of parliament to get their story across.  With the support of AFTA, CLIA and CATO, the message is clear and travel advisors need support to help come through this time.    Especially as there is currently 8 Billion Dollars worth of Travel Credits from Aussies, sitting with suppliers that the general public will need the professional support from Travel Advisors to utilise and navigate the ever changing travel landscape as we come through this time.  To get involved or read up on what the Travel Industry bodies are also saying in Australia - check out www.travelagentachievers.com/Episode60

In the past two years, we all have been on hundreds of Zoom meetings and possibly other types of online conferences/training or networking events. Let's be honest, somehow, we have all grown accustomed to this situation but it's also been exhausting.    In fact, when face to face connection became impossible as the world closed and we all began working and staying at home, an opportunity to move online with networking and connection for Travel Advisors was how our guest in this episode continued to build and establish a brand known for this. Our Guest is the man behind the Travel Community Hub - Richard Taylor.    Richard founded The Travel Community Hub, known as TCH to bring people together from the travel and tourism industry to start and continue conversations with suppliers and educators during COVID-19 pandemic. With the aim to keep the industry connected, informed and supported. His prior business was a Co-Working Space specifically for Travel Professionals.   In this podcast episode, Richard and I talk about Community, Connection, Networking and Education and how these will all look like post-covid. Are we still having online events? Or will we finally connect with one another in person?    We also talk about 'Hybrid events', What this means, how this will work and how this will further help us in the travel industry to continue to connect with one another and be well-informed about what's going on in our industry.    We also dig deeper about The Travel Community Hub and how Richard and his team will continue to support the travel and tourism industry now and in the future as we continue to navigate the new era of travel.    Make sure you stay up to date with the podcast by subscribing and downloading our free resources and checklists to help you with your travel business. https://travelagentachievers.com/  

A New year is always a great place to start with thinking fresh, getting yourself organised, cleaning your office, tidying up old emails, and a FRESH start. I absolutely think we all need that this year. 2021 was just another crazy year we all had to experience.    If you felt like the end of last year was another kick in the guts, I understand. If you are questioning yourself and your business right now, I understand. You are not alone. Myself and my team have also faced many struggles both in business and in our personal lives towards the end of 2021. We all needed a break from everything.    As we start 2022,  It's a great opportunity to start again as we welcome a new year!    I share this as business is like climbing the mountain. There will always be obstacles, challenges and then when you are prepared and you take action you will also be surrounded by people who want you to succeed and also those that can help lead the way and clear the path for you.    That's exactly what I believe this year will be about.    Grounding, Momentum, Action and Fearlessness.   As we kick off our work year, I'd like to suggest that this year, we take it as an opportunity to build a 'NEW' travel business. Asking yourself, what can we do differently this year to make sure that not only will we get through the year, but business is going to soar to new heights.    In this very first podcast episode of the year 2022, I share with you the things I do to prepare my business for an entire new year and also tools I use to assess my travel business.    Planning, forecasting, knowing what to promote or sell, setting sales targets, being involved in a community- these are just some of the things that you can do right now for your travel business.    In this episode, I mention a lot more ideas and things that I know you can use to have a clearer mindset, vision and focus as we navigate through this year.    My goal is to take action with you and implement those dreams, plans and goals. Are you ready?

In our (almost last) episode of 2021, I wanted to invite a friend, someone I admire and respect immensely and am also a HUGE fan of as a guest on the Travel Agent Achievers podcast.  James Castrission is not only a father and CEO of My Adventure group, but he was also the first person to Kayak across the Tasman Sea from Australia to New Zealand and then to also trek across Antarctica. (His stories and experience is incredible)     From his work as a senior management consultant at Deloitte and experience leading expeditions to the most hostile corners of the planet, James understands that culture eats strategy for breakfast.   We talk all about James's adventures and how these have given him lessons both in life and in business. We also talk about the three elements and key traits in business it takes to succeed in business for survival now and in the future.  A GREAT Episode to finish off 2021 with. 

Many travel professionals (mainly within Australia) that I know have been trained or have seen Meg Salter speaking at a travel industry event over the past 20 years or so. She has true passion for the industry and a HUGE heart wanting to help people achieve their dreams and goals.    When COVID hit and almost all of us were in a state of shock, grief and depression, Meg stood up and shone brightly for everyone. She knew what we needed at that time - SUPPORT and ACCOUNTABILITY. Hence she joined forces with a few other industry legends and founded the “Travel Industry Women” Facebook Support group. This facebook group grew exponentially in the initial weeks as agents reached out and supported one another - something I had never seen before in such magnitude to work through the countless refunds, credits and details. It was and is a place for support emotionally, personally and professionally.    As she showed up in the facebook group daily along with thousands of others, in my eyes she created a space of ‘we're all in this together' in raw and transparent conversations, which hit home with so many.    With this episode, I wanted to talk about those days with Meg and how she saw it from her point of view, but also bring to life some of the things that I have learnt from her over the year.    We discuss forming new habits and attitudes, continual learning and taking your skills to the next level and how important these are as we face the surge of booking inquiries again.    We also talked about "Brainboxes", opening and closing loops on your brain and prioritising things to avoid overwhelm.    We are no longer the travel advisors we were 20 months ago. We are smarter, braver and much more skilled. We know our worth and we have pointed out the people that we love to work with. We have done so much in the past few months to make sure that we'll never go back to that crazy hamster wheel.    We have the greatest opportunity right now to relaunch and rebirth ourselves as travel professionals. Make use of all the learnings and skills we've had in the past. Really make a plan for business success and not just a plan on how to make money.    It's time to look at the broader perspective, a long-term goals.    We believe this is THE TIME to get organised if you haven't already, or you feel as though you could be stuck on the hamster wheel - you are trying to juggle work commitments as well as family, a second job even or are just not sure what to focus on.    For more details and to join the In-Person sessions in Sydney, Australia in December 2021 or January 2022: https://travelagentachievers.com/planningday   Make sure you stay up to date with the podcast by subscribing and downloading our free resources and checklists to help you with your travel business. https://travelagentachievers.com/    

Sometimes, when things are hard, a question that arises, is WHY….  Why have I chosen to do something. In this instance, a question I am hearing often right now is: “Why am I still here in travel?” “Why do I still remain on the roller coater of emotions as a pandemic surrounds me?”    If you have asked yourself this or many other “Why” questions, you are not alone. Sometimes I too ask myself this when having a tough day. I answer myself with my love and passion for the industry, travel and adventures we can have exploring this incredible planet we live on and my passion for helping others create memories of their own experiences as well.    Over the last few years, I have shared my journey with you. How my team and I have worked through the struggles, challenges, and moments we faced. As a team and also as individuals.    In this episode, I asked one of my long term clients share her story. She has ridden the same roller coaster, lost thousands of dollars worth of bookings, but decided that this was not the end of her travel experience as an advisor.  It is a journey of discovery, experience, up-skilling and working ON herself and her business to come through this time. A story of hope and what you can do too.    Kerstin has been part of the Travel Agent Achievers community since its inception and to watch her overcome the challenges has been an honor and privilege.I have seen her grow and flourish. Riding the wins and achievements as well as walking with her through the challenging times.    Her big heart for travel and wellness has helped her pivot and cope at times during the pandemic.    Even though her business ground to a halt, when the shock and main activity subsided, she did not let emotion and challenges bring her down. She asked herself - "Why" but then also followed with "What".   She has worked on what resonated with her and has taken action working ON her business. Given the greatest gift of time to get organised.    Business can be challenging. No one ever told you that having your own business would be easy. But with the right support and guidance, you will come through this time stronger and more resilient than ever.    You can be the Travel Advisor that clients are looking to turn to. One that is an expert, knowledgeable and ready to take care of them.   Kerstin is a member of the Achievers Mastermind as well. Her progress, implementation and training have been remarkable. I know that with the solid foundations she is putting in place, her business will soar when we are once again allowed to travel.   If you are looking to uplevel your business, check out the resources at www.travelagentachievers.com 

If you've listened to our previous episode, I talked about the recent news we've been hearing all over the world about the world slowly opening up. I invited a special guest onto this episode as I wanted to dig a little deeper into the topic with an incredible woman who champions other women on their business journey. Michelle Broadbent.    We both want you to be ready for what is on it's way with regards to bookings and to get prepared as things start to unfold for now and the future! Helping you to clear the overwhelm and be the boss in your business.    Our special Michelle says she's ‘the woman behind the woman', and the sounding board and cheerleader and is very passionate about seeing others succeed. But she's so much more.    She provides realistic, practical solutions and operational support together with out-of-the-box creative ideas - all served with a big dose of TLC.    Michelle and I have a lot of things in common and one you will hear about on this episode. (Please excuse my singing - OMG I almost died when I realised I did this and it is now recorded. )      Michelle shares with us ways to help to clear overwhelm, manage our time well, set up boundaries to ensure that we are on top of our business and not our business on top of us.      As we move on to a new era, I want you to be in charge and put yourself in the driver's seat. Do what you can do right now. One step at a time.    Organise, plan and understand your clients better and connect with them. Plug into a group that will help you grow, succeed and be accountable.    “Work out those things that work for you and put yourself in the driver's seat because you don't want to live your entire life according to other people's agendas”. - Roslyn Rase In-Person Planning Sessions - Get your Travel Business Ready and Organised for 2022 Achievers in Travel Facebook Group

Recently, there has been lots of positive information and news about the world starting to open up. A lot of discussion around what we can and can't do, how we will navigate the travel experience and seeing things from both sides of the industry - suppliers/operators/wholesalers and travel agents/advisors and professionals.     Things are happening. The question is at the moment, ARE YOU READY?    How are you feeling about this?    Discussions are still about and the roller coaster of emotions. Should we book, do we risk cancellations.. There are still so many questions and uncertainties, things we can't control but we need to be aware of and assess as we move into this new era.     However, even with all these uncertainties, we have control and authority over one thing - our behaviour, our actions and preparing the future for our travel businesses. So, what could you be doing right now to secure your clients as we move into a new era?    In today's episode, we will be walking you through some ideas that we use in our business to stay on task and are using to get ready for the new future of travel.    If you think things are starting to feel heavy and too much once again, I want you to take a deep breath. Look at the facts, look at what you can do and communicate as much as you possibly can. I am here to encourage you and support you and I know you will come through this time.  For resources to help you on your travel business journey, check out: https://travelagentachievers.com/

As we all know, the entire Travel and Tourism industry is among those harmed the most by the COVID-19 pandemic. In previous episodes, we have highlighted voices of amazing travel professionals who in spite of COVID-19 have continued to move forward and achieve results for their travel business that they may not have had time, insight or the determination to chase before.    There's so much that we can do with the gift of time that we have right now. And I know our guest for today will agree to this as well.    In today's episode, we have a very special guest. Lisa Pagotto - the founder and director of Crooked Compass.    Lisa has a fascinating journey creating one of Australia's leading niche travel brands, Crooked Compass.    Lisa sold her home to fund her business and what unravelled on her journey will have you spell bound, on the edge of your seat and on the brink of tears.     With over 21 years of travel experience, she's excelled in all facets of the industry. Lisa's efforts in the experiential travel space have directly influenced the development of the experiential travel movement. Her commitment, curiosity and daring sets new standards for the industry. With incredible stories overcoming adversity and challenges you never dreamed possible, Lisa has battled it all. With a passion for fading cultures, education through travel and a new skillset of becoming a pilot at a time when tourism was at a standstill, she's poised, whip-smart and straight shooting and will leave you feeling inspired and fired up to chase what you really want.   Lisa may be someone from the 'other side' of travel as a wholesaler and supplier but she has the same determination, guts, knowledge, and expertise as you do. AND is willing to do what it takes to get through this time.    2020 was set to be the biggest sales year for Crooked Compass, Lisa's biggest year yet. Everything in her business was going on an upward trajectory then COVID-19 hit.  However, she did not let the sadness and depression get the best out of her and her business.    She took action. Which is exactly what we encourage you to do as well.    She chose to accept the situation calmly and work on the things that she can do right now. She chose to move forward and made use of the precious time to look at her cash flow, work on her systems and content plan, continue to build the relationship with her clients, and also reassess who she loves to work with.    Yes, we are not in an ideal situation. No one is right now. However, we are in the best position to prepare our travel business when things reopen once again. We will travel again and we want to ensure that your clients are going to book with you again.    I want you to be ready when that time comes. Now is the time to get stuck into those projects you never thought possible. Work on the back end of your travel business to help you in the front end as the bookings come in.    If you are not sure which direction to take, reach out. Send us an email at info@travelagentachievers.com or a direct message on Instagram @travelagentachievers  www.travelagentachievers.com/episode52

Do you realise or understand the level of service, the expertise or guidance you provide to your clients?  I know it, you ARE the expert.  So why is it that sometimes we question everything we do. We feel guilty when we can't control a situation. Do you feel the pain physically or emotionally when a client gets upset?    Sometimes we don't or our clients don't actually understand the amount of time, the expertise we have to guide them through a booking experience.  I know for a fact that you AREN'T a booking agent that does set and forget bookings. You are there when a client is in need and have navigated the last 18+ months like a true professional.   This episode is to really help you look into yourself. See the true value that you provide and then look at ways, by involving your clients as to how to get the message across that you too deserve to be paid for the work you do.    Not sure how to get started? Listen to this episode as I walk you through my 4 Step plan. Grab the resource to help you articulate your own value and the steps to also roll out your own ‘Professional Fee' for your Travel expertise.    Whether you are just starting your travel business or a seasoned professional, this episode is for you.    If you are feeling uncomfortable about the conversation, it's ok. I get it. If this is new to you, its also ok. One step at a time.  If you are thinking about your Travel Business and what you can do to move forward as a Travel advisor, Travel Agent, Travel consultant, Travel Professional, whatever you would like to call yourself moving forward, then check out our “Achievers” Mastermind.  I'd love to see you in our Facebook group, "Achievers in Travel - Accountability"  for additional support and guidance. I am here for you, you can get through this and I believe in you.   Grab the resource for this episode at www.travelagentachievers.com/episode51

Do you take the time to acknowledge your progress in your business?  You get a new client - Whoo Hoo!

Overwhelm is real! When we don't have direction, a plan or strategies in place, we can be led astray and feel like we have to do ‘all the things.'    Whilst coaching and mentoring Travel Professionals and other business industry professionals, I have seen over and over again, how we can be learning and listening, see or hear of a NEW thing we ‘should' be doing and then jumping onto it. It can be exciting to work like this, but it isn't sustainable in my experience.    On the other hand, I have worked with many different business owners that have a vision, a plan and stay focused and experience tremendous growth. BUT - they also know that every plan can be amended. New things come up and they can be implemented if it fits or when the timing is right.    There is no magic pill or rescue service in business. We all have our own path, yet can also get support and guidance if and when it works for you. As travel business owners, my hope and wish for you is that you do build the travel business of your dreams and one of the BEST ways I have learnt over the years to get this is to have a plan and strategy in place and work with it consistently to move forward.    At Travel Agent Achievers, it has always been our aim to ensure that as a community, we are here to empower, assist, guide, provide insight and encouragement as well as offer the tools to help you build the business that you deserve. However, without planning, you will not be able to maximise the full potential of these tools, resources, and tips that we provide.    If you're still not convinced as to WHY you need to have a solid PLAN and clear strategies for your business, listen to this episode. This week, we are going to share with you 6 reasons that we always keep in mind to remind ourselves as to WHY we need a plan and strategy IF we want our business to move forward.    Are you ready to rebuild your travel business? Are you ready to tackle all challenges and dive into them because you love it?    A strategy, a plan and a community of like-minded people that are working towards building the travel businesses of their dreams. Collaboration and sharing of ideas.    Do you want this for you? If yes, then join us in our upcoming In-Person Planning Session in Sydney! Together with awesome members of our Achievers Mastermind, let's set up a plan for your business and put some strategies in place for the coming months ahead.  You will walk away with not only the plan, but realistic and actionable steps for you to follow to move your business forward.  Click here for more details: www.travelagentachievers.com/planningday

“I need more time” is a common remark I hear often from business owners and occasionally myself internally too. :-)  Unfortunately time is one thing that we all have exactly the same amount of.  I can’t give you more of it, but I can share some of the tools and resources we use in our travel business to help reduce stress and wasting precious seconds, minutes and hours in our work day.    As you start booking and engaging with clients, working smarter not harder is crucial.     This episode is just the start of sharing some of the tools we use. Over the coming months, we will share what works and doesn’t work in our business, what we have tried and let go of and what we have tried and continued to use and love. We will also bring in other consultants that use different tools and why they use those too!    Instead of reverting to old school methods or going back to ways you used prior to COVID-19 in your business, I want to encourage you to become more efficient and ensure that you are getting things out of your head. Allowing you to be more creative, have more fun, and get more  joy out of your day-to-day work schedules.    You CAN scale your travel business with just a few tools. You don’t have to spend thousands to be more productive.     These 4 tools are to kick you off and we know will help you.    You deserve to have the travel business you have dreamt about. Now is the perfect time to be putting some of these things in place to help you grow.  Check out www.travelagentachievers.com/episode48 for all the resources and details on each of these tools.  We have seen AWESOME transformations with a number of consultants we work with around the world. Getting their travel business organised and systemised. Gaining clarity and having a clear direction with focus on a monthly basis. If you want to know how they are doing it, check out our Achievers Mastermind!    Those already in the group consistently share how being accountable, learning and implementing the tools and resources we share each month and setting the goals, and taking ACTION gives you visible and real WINS. 

Have you ever put together a ‘Budget’ for your travel business? Or been told - you NEED to have a budget so you know what you can spend?    Well, when I think about budgeting, it scares me to bits. Why would I want to be restricted and whenever I have put together a personal budget, I’ve been depressed. What do you mean I can’t go out to dinner more than once per month! Haha   However when you own a business, money is important. You need it to survive. And one of the easiest ways I have found that WORKS for our travel business, is to keep an eye on cashflow.    Why? Because in travel, you may have a client book now, travel in a few months and you don't get the commission until after they leave. This means that you are doing the work now, and having to wait for a portion of payment. SO, in your travel business. This ultimately says you need to look at your cashflow and prepare for the ebs and flows of the money coming in.    Making predictions based on FACTS. Preparing for the tougher months and also those where cashflow is good.    I wanted to discuss this topic as we start to reopen our businesses, as you start to get clients booking, what can you do to prepare for the future.    To track expenses and predict those in the future as well as track your sales and what is potentially coming in and plan ahead.    Looking back to March 2020, I already knew what money was to come into the business for that month and really evaluated and took a good hard look at our travel business to see where we could pull in the expenses strings, without losing the things that were important to me. Education, community, clients. Assessing what I could and couldn’t potentially do moving forward - at least for a few months.   I took the opportunity to look at my finances and planned ahead.    Using a cash flow forecasting tool was a real game-changer. It showed me my financial capacity, how long could I stay afloat without having to think about a business loan, and what things do I need to keep me, my family, my team, and my business secure. I believe that this is what every travel business owners need to have and do especially right now.    Our guest on this episode, Louise Delaney isn't an accountant. I specifically chose to speak to her for this reason. However, she loves numbers and is an expert in cash flow forecasting. She is a business owner herself so she knows and understands how and what we feel about managing our finances.    We discuss the importance of cash flow for our travel business, how to do this, tips and how to manage it.    We have a perfect time now to look at our cash flow and really project and work towards building a more solid, more successful travel business in the future.    Louise has tools that you can use for your business on her website, Cash Flows For You. These have been put together with simplicity, and ease of use in mind. She can also be able to help you get a real picture of how much you have financially and how much you need to keep everything afloat.    Louise is also a guest speaker in our Achievers Mastermind next month where we will be talking about Revenue Planning.  If you want to know more about cash flow and have a plan set up for your travel business, sign up now! www.travelagentachievers.com/TheAchievers We’d also love to have you in the Achievers in Travel - Facebook group, make sure you join the FREE community. Achievers in Travel - Accountability group.