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Cindy and Jeff Coggin, owners of Coggin Travel, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how their Nexion-affiliated agency, based in Newnan, Ga., has grown in just three years from a hobby to a much larger business focus on wine tourism. In fact, their home-based agency just acquired its own building and a general manager—big news for Coggins, who are both sommeliers leading wine cruises on the rivers and oceans of Europe. For more information, visit https://coggintravels.com or www.nexion.com. All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean, iHeartRadio, Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.
Most travel advisors have never read their own host agreement fine print. That gap can cost real money. Brianna sits down with Gunes Hopson, founder of GFH Law PLC and owner of Luxe Travel by Gunes, to break down real contract disputes she has handled, including hidden exclusivity clauses and non-competes that trap advisors mid-transition. Gunes also explains why AI cannot replace a lawyer's review of a legal document, and what actually happens when an LLC exists on paper but not in practice.
In this live episode of Humans of Travel, host Chelsee Lowe talks smart business growth with Joe Leon, vice president of sales, the Americas for Silversea; Marc-Antoine Kamel, national director, Canada, for Norwegian Cruise Line; and Mickey McBride, vice president of sales for Avoya Travel. The trio attended Future Leaders in Travel in Mexico’s Riviera Maya last month to share their career paths and impart business wisdom to both travel advisors and fellow suppliers in the audience. The panel discussion covers tackling professional and personal curveballs, taking risks, finding mentors, building confidence, dedicating time each day to business development, leveraging personal networks and much more. Listen in for practical and applicable ideas from three great business minds. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Future Leaders in Travel Silversea Norwegian Cruise Line Avoya Travel Lomas Hospitality El Dorado Royale Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas ABOUT YOUR HOST Chelsee Lowe is Senior Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She’s an avid reader, writer, interviewer and traveler. Los Angeles is her home base. The TravelAge West team also produces travel industry events, including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala and the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen as Jon and Brian discuss their upcoming travel plans with Out Loud!—Virgin Voyage CRUISE:https://www.outloudjb.com/event-details-registration/out-loud-cruise-dominican-daze-with-virgin-voyagesMEMBERSHIP: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHLEcaJ0RewmS9XyfVa-fww/join - Get a personalized shout-out at the end of every video - Get access to behind the scenes content - Get special icons that appear next to your name whenever you comment on our videosMERCH: https://www.amazon.com/shop/outloudEmail: OutLoudJB@gmail.comIG: @OutLoudJBYouTube: https://youtube.com/@OutLoudJBThanks to our MEMBERS:Horacio ClownStuart LeeBritt SaundersDoctor JoeHen PenAlt LoverJeremiahGreg BairdRick LynchMichelle
If marketing feels like a slog, I promise you it's not because you suck at it. It's because nobody talks about the foundations, they jump straight to the shiney objects and magic pills. Which is like building IKEA furniture with half the parts and no manual. This week, I'm getting into why "free" marketing from your host agency is quietly costing you clients, why AI content is setting off alarm bells for your audience, whether you realize it or not, and why the "faceless" trend was always going to die (I called it back then too). In this episode, I also talk about the marketing funnel and why most advisors have it backwards, and why I ditched AI for my own writing. Additional Links: Our Building An Audience Workshop: Marketing Workshop Download the Essential Lessons PDF: Essential Lessons PDF Join the priority list for our upcoming groups workshop: Groups Workshop Join the priority list for upcoming sales workshops: Workshop Priority List Join the Facebook Group: Facebook Group Connect with Glenda on Facebook or Instagram
#242 - A “perfect” itinerary can still produce a forgettable trip. What actually makes travel stick is the human stuff: the meal you can't stop describing, the guide who made you laugh, the neighborhood you wandered without a plan, the courage it took to go even though you felt nervous. I spoke with Eleanor from Elevate Your Escapes, an award-winning travel advisor and blogger who's been to 70 countries and helps hundreds of clients each year plan vacations, honeymoons, cruises, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. She is also at Top 30 First Mate (Travel Agent) with Virgin Voyages.Eleanor shares how she went from a late start with travel to taking a first big leap with a group trip plus solo time in Costa Rica, and how that blend can be a powerful entry point for anyone curious about solo travel. We get honest about loneliness versus being alone, the small choices that create connection on the road, and why Europe keeps pulling her back, especially Greece and Spain for culture, history, and food. If you love cultural travel and foodie travel, her perspective is packed with practical ideas.We also go behind the scenes on building a travel business. Eleanor explains why Elevate Your Escapes began as a blog idea, how the agency side unexpectedly snowballed, and what changed when she finally went full-time after a layoff gave her the runway to try. She breaks down what travelers don't expect, like cruise port changes, tendering, and European train strikes, plus why travel insurance matters more than most people think.If you're planning your next trip and want it to feel meaningful, not rushed, you'll leave with a clearer definition of “unforgettable” and a better way to design travel around who you are. Subscribe for more conversations like this, share this with a friend who needs a trip on the calendar, and leave a quick rating or review so more people can find the show.To learn more about Eleanor please check out her website www.elevateyourescapes.com and give her a follow on Instagram @elevateyourescapes.To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjakeDiscover the journeys that do more than take you somewhere new—they change the way you see yourself and the world. Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel explores unforgettable adventures, hidden places, and the transformative power of stepping beyond the familiar.Check out Wayfinder Life-Changing Travel and listen wherever you get your podcasts. Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Join us at Prep for Wave Week this year: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/prep-for-wave-week/Fill out Rita's 2026 Feedback Form: https://forms.gle/3zuchVKZ817RvGyk9Join us for the ultimate content and marketing camp in 2027: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776I don't know about you, but AI has been big on my brain this summer.Coincidentally, The Legal Paige just came out with a reel talking about using AI legally.I'm sharing the four big things Paige mentioned, and translating them to how they would affect travel advisors like you.Things like why you can't just upload other people's work into AI to who actually owns the content AI creates for you. I'll share what I've been rethinking about my own courses and content, plus some GPT ideas I'm excited about for helping you get the most out of what you've already got. I'm not a lawyer, but Paige is, and I've been following her long enough to know that she knows her stuff and then some.Come think through these topics with me, as we're all figuring this out this new world together.Questions this episode answers:Is it legal to upload client itineraries into AI tools or a CRM's AI?Can you copyright a blog post or website that AI wrote?Is it a copyright violation to upload someone else's course or digital product into AI?Should travel advisors use AI to write their contracts?What should you never paste into AI?Do you need an AI clause in your travel agency terms and conditions?Can a client legally run your itinerary through AI and use it themselves?How can travel advisors use AI and GPTs to get more out of the content they already own?The Legal Paige Reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DbqlAc_yw8o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The Legal Paige Templates *affiliate link*: https://thelegalpaige.com?aff=847Enjoy and take action!---------------------------------------------------------------Rita M. Perez (Host) first began in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2010. She only fully realized her role as a travel entrepreneur in 2018, and embarked on a mission to support her fellow travel advisors in 2021 when she began the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast. She now strategizes with travel entrepreneurs, so they too can build sustainable travel agencies and market effectively.She's a maven when it comes to content photography and videography, and as such founded the Cruise Content Library and leads retreats and partners on FAMs where advisors get top notch content and education for their marketing efforts.Website: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Socials:LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/IG: http://www.instagram.com/steeryourmarketingFB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strategictravelentrepreneurs/ Email:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
Join Brianna and guest Erica Carr for a conversation on their innovative approaches to scaling a travel business with an employee model, from implementing unique incentive programs to understanding the evolving roles within a travel agency. They delve into the significance of hiring ahead of growth, the shift in industry norms post-Covid, and the vital role of technology in adapting to change. Plus, they share their personal experiences in assembling teams that complement their strengths and drive business success, highlighting the balance between independent contractors and employees, the value of understanding employee motivations, and strategic hiring decisions that prioritize team dynamics and client satisfaction.For the next several weeks, enjoy this replay of a listener favorite episode. We'll be back soon with new content!
Love travel and planning it, but hate the sales part? In this episode, Brianna and guest Glenda from The Art of Selling Travel delve into the art of sales and client relations. Glenda shares her seasoned approach to pricing negotiations and reframing rejection, all while maintaining an authentic human connection. She provides invaluable insights on asking the right questions and building rapport that help build connections with clients. Through this candid discussion and personal stories, they unravel the complexities of selling travel experiences, advocating the power of conversation over assumption.For the next several weeks, enjoy this replay of a listener favorite episode. We'll be back soon with new content!
Do you ever wonder how some travel advisors seem to do it all? In this behind-the-scenes episode, I'm sharing exactly what I automate in my travel business—from client workflows and email templates to AI tools, CRM automations, scheduling, onboarding, and follow-up systems. These are the same processes that help me run a successful travel agency while teaching full-time, creating content, hosting a podcast, and traveling myself. You'll learn how automation creates a better client experience, saves hours every week, and allows you to spend more time building relationships instead of repeating administrative tasks. In this episode, you'll learn: The client emails and workflows I automate from inquiry to post-tripHow I use my CRM to streamline the entire client journeyMy automated consultation reminders and follow-up processThe 30-day onboarding email sequence I use for new travel advisorsHow I use AI inside my CRM and other tools to save timeThe email templates I never write from scratch anymoreWhy automation makes your business more personal—not lessWhere to start if you're new to business automation Whether you're a new travel advisor or looking to scale your travel business, these automation tips will help you create a more organized, profitable, and stress-free business. Connect with Lindsay: Ready to build a travel business with proven systems and support? Learn more about joining At Last I See The World Travel or connect with Lindsay on social media for more travel advisor tips, marketing strategies, and behind-the-scenes business content. https://www.lindsaydollinger.com https://www.facebook.com/lindsay.dollinger https://www.instagram.com/lindsaydollinger
In this episode of Bliss to Abundance, Cyndi sits down with Jamie from Tembo Wild to explore why Africa is one of the most exciting and profitable niches travel advisors can add to their business.From growing tourism demand and high-commission opportunities to conservation, culture, and life-changing client experiences, they discuss what makes Africa such a powerful destination for both travelers and advisors. They also share how travel professionals can confidently break into the African market, the support available through Tembo Wild, and what participants can expect from the upcoming Wander Beyond Africa Retreat. Whether you're looking to expand your niche, increase your revenue, or create more transformational experiences for your clients, this episode will inspire you to think bigger and wander farther.
Send us Fan MailWelcome to the What's Up in Business Travel podcast for Week 23 of 2026. This weekly podcast is great for those who need to know what's happening in the world of business travel - in under 15 minutes.On this week's podcast, we cover the following stories:Business events sector worth $1.3TAir France, Airbus found guiltyIndia approves $1 billion fund to help airlinesInternational airfares hit a seven-week lowBCD Travel breach raises cybersecurity concernsEurope struggles with EES rolloutTravelport taps Cognizant and AnthropicPhilippine Airlines joins oneworldJuniper Group acquires DeemExpedia Group to acquire CarTrawlerMews partners with UberKayak for Business, Blockskye and FCM partnerTSA introduces Gold+ screening modelHilton debuts Undergraduate by HiltonAvianca adds a new top loyalty tierDelta Air Lines to debut AI ConciergeYou can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360. Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show
In this episode, Cyndi sits down with Certified Travel Agency Owner ® Heather Schramm to discuss one of the most important foundations of a successful travel business: workflows and organization.Together, they explore why operational workflows are critical for growth, efficiency, and delivering an exceptional client experience. Heather shares practical insights on which workflows travel advisors should prioritize first, how to begin building systems even if none currently exist, and how to avoid common organizational pitfalls as your business scales.The conversation also dives into the balance between automation and personalization, including where travel professionals should incorporate their unique brand voice and personal touch within their workflow processes to create a more memorable client experience.Whether you're a new advisor creating systems for the first time or an established agency owner looking to streamline operations, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you build a more organized, scalable, and service-focused travel business.Resources Mentioned:Wanderlust CampusCareers on Vacation Enrollment InformationKey Topics Covered:The importance of workflows in a growing travel businessWhere to start when creating operational systemsEssential workflows every travel advisor should implementOrganization strategies for scaling efficientlyPersonalization vs. automation in client serviceBranding opportunities within your workflow processImproving the overall client experience through systems and structure
Travel Agent Achievers - To Educate, Encourage and Empower Travel Professionals
In this reflective and thought-provoking episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Roslyn Ranse shares powerful insights from the recent International Travel Agent Achievers Retreat in Cebu, along with lessons from speaking internationally across New Zealand, Fiji, Las Vegas, and the USA. This episode explores the difference between being "busy" in your travel business versus intentionally leading it as a business owner. Roslyn opens up about the reactive habits many travel advisors fall into, constantly responding to emails, solving problems, juggling bookings, and carrying the emotional pressure of always needing to be "on." She also shares her own experiences of burnout, leadership growth, protecting energy, and learning to think differently as a CEO. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, trapped in the doing, or unsure what the next stage of your travel business looks like, this episode is for you. Inside this episode: Why "busy" has become an identity in the travel industry The difference between a travel advisor and a travel business owner How reactive habits impact growth and sustainability Why stepping away from your business creates clarity Leadership, boundaries, systems, and intentional growth The mindset shift required for the next level of business How to stop reacting and start leading more intentionally This episode is an invitation to reflect on where you are right now, what is draining your energy, and what kind of business owner you truly want to become. Learn more about Travel Agent Achievers and The Achievers Mastermind: Travel Agent Achievers Connect with Roslyn on Instagram: Instagram - Travel Agent Achievers Listen to more episodes of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast: Travel Agent Achievers Podcast
You don't have a sales problem… you have a systems problem.If your business feels chaotic, inconsistent, or stuck—this episode will hit.In this conversation, Cyndi sits down with Brianna Glenn (founder of Milk + Honey & co-leader of Masters in Travel) to break down the real difference between working in your business vs. working on it, and why most advisors get it completely backwards. Here's the truth:
Most people know Disney for its theme parks and cruise ships… but did you know Disney also offers fully curated guided vacations around the world? Today, we're diving into the history of Adventures by Disney—how Disney entered the luxury travel business, what makes these trips so unique, and why they've become a dream vacation for many Disney fans. In this episode, we cover: How Adventures by Disney got started ✈️ What makes these guided vacations different from normal travel The types of trips Disney offers around the world The biggest downside (hint: these trips are NOT cheap
Want to grow your dream business without working 40+ hours a week? In this episode, Lindsay Dollinger breaks down what you actually need to DO, BELIEVE, and LET GO of to build a profitable, flexible business in less than 20 hours a week. Learn how to focus on revenue-generating tasks, simplify your systems, create content that converts using the CASTLE framework, and shift your mindset around productivity, time, and success. Connect with Lindsay: https://www.lindsaydollinger.com/quiz https://www.atlastiseetheworldtravel.com https://www.instagram.com/lindsaydollinger
My newsletter: https://simonowens.substack.com/ Jessica Dante didn't set out to build a multi-platform travel media company—she set out to escape one. After an early career managing social media for corporate travel brands, she quickly grew frustrated with the slow-moving, top-down decision-making that defined the industry. So she struck out on her own, initially experimenting with blogging before discovering a more powerful insight: travelers weren't reading—they were watching. That realization led her to launch a YouTube channel focused on hyper-specific, highly practical London travel advice, a niche that was both underserved and endlessly in demand. Over the next several years, that channel evolved into Dante Media, a business spanning YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, email newsletters, and a suite of high-margin digital travel products. In a recent interview, Jessica explained how she identified a scalable content niche that didn't require constant travel, why a "drive-by" audience can be more valuable than loyal fans in certain contexts, and how the rise of AI-generated travel planning is beginning to erode one of her most important revenue streams, forcing her to rethink what parts of her business can still command a premium.
Nurse Cassandra is a former pediatric cardiac nurse and certified nurse practitioner with over two decades of clinical experience. She's been working for 8 as a certified Blomdahl ear piercer, along with advanced training in Clinical Aesthetics through LexRx at Boston College. She provides in-home ear piercing and clinical aesthetic services for clients who value privacy, comfort, and expert care. In addition, she's been adding pop up events, which is how we met. On this episode we chat about her nursing career, how she came to start a concierge/traveling nurse business as well as her personal journey with family and more. Her approach is calm, developmentally appropriate, and trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on education, safety, and precision. Every experience is thoughtfully designed so clients feel confident, informed, respected, and beautifully cared for. Ear Piercing and Botox Treatments in Boston and Brookline | Cassandra Hunter
Spring Clean Your Travel Business: How to Get More Clients & Book More Trips
Denise Cruz shares how she pivoted after Google's Helpful Content Update wiped out her travel blog traffic and income, forcing her to rethink her entire business. In this interview, she breaks down how she went from earning about $6,000 a month from blogging to building a travel advisor business that grew to nearly $2 million in commissionable sales in just a few years. She also explains the systems, sales funnel, client referrals, and EEAT-driven strategy that helped her gain traction fast with a service-based website. It's an inspiring and practical conversation for anyone wondering how to turn niche expertise into a more resilient business. Sponsor: Quiet LightGet a free, confidential valuation at https://quietlight.com/! Links & Resources Learn more about Denise: https://denise.travel/ Be sure to get more content like this in the Niche Pursuits Newsletter Right Here: https://www.nichepursuits.com/newsletter Want a Faster and Easier Way to Build Internal Links? Get $15 off Link Whisper with Discount Code "Podcast" on the Checkout Screen: https://www.nichepursuits.com/linkwhisper Get SEO Consulting from the Niche Pursuits Podcast Host, Jared Bauman: https://www.nichepursuits.com/201creative
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
Travel Agent Achievers - To Educate, Encourage and Empower Travel Professionals
What can learning archery teach you about running a travel business? In this episode of the Travel Agent Achievers Podcast, Roslyn Ranse shares a personal story about stepping away from work, trying something completely new, and the unexpected lessons it revealed about business growth, asking for help, and the power of community. After recently discussing body burnout, Ros took time away from her business to spend a few hours outdoors with her family at a local archery open day. What began as a simple weekend activity quickly became a powerful reminder of how many travel advisors approach learning and growth in their businesses. Like many entrepreneurs in the travel industry, travel advisors often feel pressure to figure everything out themselves. But sometimes, the fastest way forward is simply asking someone beside you for guidance. In this short solo episode, Ros reflects on how mentorship, community, and stepping away from work can help travel professionals build stronger, more sustainable travel businesses. If you are a travel advisor looking for encouragement, perspective, and practical reminders to grow a travel business you love, this episode is for you. Find the full episode details and show notes here:
Not every hospitality story is about scaling, venture money, or the newest concept. Some are about staying power.In this episode, David talks with Kathy Quast, co-owner of Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort in Calistoga, a family-owned resort that has welcomed guests for 50 years. Built around the town's geothermal mineral pools and Napa Valley wine country, the property has spent decades doing something simple but difficult: giving people a place to slow down, recharge, and reconnect.David and Kathy discuss what it takes to keep a hospitality business alive across several decades: encouraging "slow travel," updating rooms without losing the property's character, building partnerships with local wineries and businesses, and creating the kind of experience that turns first-time guests into annual visitors.In hospitality, repeat guests aren't luck. They're the result of doing a lot of small things right for a very long time.NotesRoman Spa Hot Springs Resort websiteRoman Spa Hot Springs IGRoman Spa Hot Springs FBRoman Spa Hot Springs YouTubeBar Hacks IGDavid Klemt IGKRG Hospitality IGKRG Hospitality website
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776Get BOGO Consulting with Rita: https://calendly.com/ritaventures/take-the-helm-marketing-consulting-flash-sale-bogoJoin the Interest List for Summer Camp at Sea 06/2027: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/offers/view/1192151Entrepreneurship is amazing, but it can also feel incredibly chaotic, and sometimes life throws you curveballs that force you to finally make the changes you've been putting off. After a pretty eye-opening specialist visit and an unexpected health scare, I started building personal habits and routines that have completely changed how I show up in my travel business. Turns out, the structure I spent years fighting because I thought it would box me in is actually the thing giving me more freedom, clearer decision-making, and a faster recovery time when things go sideways. If you've been resisting routine as an entrepreneur because you're afraid of losing your flexibility, this one's going to help. Questions this episode answers:How do personal habits affect your performance as a business owner?How can travel entrepreneurs create structure without losing flexibility?What daily routines help reduce overwhelm and decision fatigue as an entrepreneur?How does adding structure to your personal life improve your travel business?Why do entrepreneurs struggle to prioritize their health over their business?How can travel advisors stay productive when life gets chaotic?What systems help travel business owners manage unexpected curveballs?How do you create a work routine when you're a night owl entrepreneur?Why is stability important for running a sustainable travel business?How do personal wellness habits make you a stronger business owner?Enjoy (and take action!)--------------------------------------------------------------- Rita M. Perez (Host) first began in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2010. She only fully realized her role as a travel entrepreneur in 2018, and embarked on a mission to support her fellow travel advisors in 2021 when she began the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast. She now strategizes with travel entrepreneurs, so they too can build sustainable travel agencies and market effectively. She's a maven when it comes to content photography and videography, and as such founded the Cruise Content Library and leads retreats and partners on FAMs where advisors get top notch content and education for their marketing efforts. Website: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Socials:LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/IG: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Email:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
Ali Raymer is a Senior Travel Advisor and team leader at Picture This Travel who rebuilt her business from the ground up after COVID wiped out her income while she was navigating new motherhood. After briefly returning to teaching, she reinvented her business through personal branding, content, and systems—eventually scaling to a multi-million-dollar book of business. Today, Ali leads a high-performing team and speaks candidly about entrepreneurship, reinvention, and what it really takes to rebuild when plans fall apart. She brings a grounded, real-world perspective on growth, leadership, and resilience behind the highlight reel. Links Website: https://www.alipicturethistravel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alipicturethistravel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alipicturethistravel/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/alipicturethistravel YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alipicturethistravel If you're enjoying Entrepreneur's Enigma, please give me a review on the podcast directory of your choice. The show is on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show. iTunes: https://gmwd.us/itunes Podchaser: https://gmwd.us/podchaser TrueFans: https://gmwd.us/truefans Also, if you're getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. → https://ko-fi.com/entrepreneursenigma Support me on TrueFans.fm → https://gmwd.us/truefans. Support The Show & Get Merch: https://shop.entrepreneursenigma.com Want to learn from a 15 year veteran? Check out the Podcast Mastery Community:https://www.skool.com/podcast-mastery-community-6116/about Follow Seth Online: Instagram: https://instagram.com/s3th.me LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/ Seth On Mastodon: https://indieweb.social/@phillycodehound The Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com Leave The Show A Voicemail: https://podcastfeedback.com/entrepreneursenigma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jamie Tarr, owner of Jamie's Vacation Experience and an InteleTravel ambassador advisor, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at Quest, InteleTravel's national conference at the Hard Rock Resort in Punta Cana, about how she discovered the host agency during the pandemic and built up her travel business over the past five years. She also discusses InteleTravel's training and advisor support and new opportunities from acquisitions including Major Travel, MGME and Tickitto. For more information, visit www.inteletravel.com. All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean, iHeartRadio, Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.
In this episode, I'm asking a question many travel advisors are quietly wondering: “Am I replaceable?” With AI tools, coach-bots, automated content, and templated posting systems everywhere, it's easy to feel like you're being pushed out of your own business. But the real issue isn't AI itself — it's what happens when we remove the human side of our work and expect technology to fill the gaps. Today, I'm sharing personal stories, client experiences, and industry insights that reveal exactly why human connection still wins, and why your lived experience, intuition, and emotional intelligence are the real differentiators AI can't touch. You'll hear about frustrating bot interactions, the rise of generic AI-generated travel content, and the ways host agencies and suppliers often overlook advisors as true business owners. I also share defining moments from my own time as an advisor, moments of crisis, heartbreak, urgency, and real human emotion, that show why clients still need a trusted guide, not an algorithm. AI can speed up tasks, but it can't replace the human edge that makes your business memorable, trustworthy, and irreplaceable. If you're ready to build a business that AI supports, not one that AI replaces, this episode is a must-listen. And if you want to take this work further, join me in June 2026 for our in-person workshop in Camrose, where we'll dive deep into building an irreplaceable, human-first travel business. Register HERE: https://www.travelsalesauthority.com/travel-advisor-growth-workshop until March 15, 2026 use code EARLYBIRD to save. Check out our Educational & Coaching Programs:Facebook Ads for Travel Advisors: https://www.travelsalesauthority.com/facebook How to build an email list for Travel Advisors: https://artofsellingtravel.com/cold Looking to grow your travel business? Join the Travel Advisor Success Studio today: https://artofsellingtravel.com/tass Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelagentobjections Are you following me on socials? I love doing random Ask Me Anythings - and you'll only see those if you're following me. Come hang out on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/artofsellingtravel/ Or FB at https://www.facebook.com/artofsellingtravel
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Stop wasting hours hunting for cruise content: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/courses/view/1166776Join us at the Lead Generation Accelerator: https://docs.google.com/document/d/176WVpzZcflAJV3wLT7nFp5VeaocFlURo659PZ4PwvmQ/viewGive your Feedback on Summer Camp: https://forms.gle/kc8U8J6V9UYBion77Check out the Plan Your Year Workbook: https://amzn.to/4aYAQMWYou cannot build a marketing plan before you have a sales plan, and yet, that's exactly what most travel advisors are out here doing! Before you touch your content calendar or post another reel, you need to know your income goal, your capacity, and exactly what types of trips are going to get you there. In this episode, I'm breaking down how to figure out your perfect sales mix so you can stop booking everything and start making real, strategic money in your travel business. Whether you're a cruise specialist, an African safari advisor, or a theme park pro, going deeper on fewer things is what turns you from a transactional booking agent into a true and trusted advisor your clients can't stop talking about.Questions this episode answers:How do I figure out what to sell in my travel business? What should my sales mix look like as a travel advisor? How many trips do I need to sell to hit my income goal? Why do I need a sales plan before I create a marketing plan? How do I choose a travel niche that actually makes me money? How can I increase my commission revenue without working more hours? What is the best way to boost sales in a travel agency? How do I transition from booking budget travel to selling luxury trips? What are the best upsells and add-ons for travel advisors? How do I stop taking every client and start building a profitable travel business?Enjoy (and take act--------------------------------------------------------------- Rita M. Perez (Host) first began in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2010. She only fully realized her role as a travel entrepreneur in 2018, and embarked on a mission to support her fellow travel advisors in 2021 when she began the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast. She now consults and strategizes with travel entrepreneurs, so they, too, can be empowered in travel entrepreneurship. She's on a mission to help travel advisors grow profitable travel businesses that are sustainable to their individual lifestyles and needs. Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
If the idea of SOPs makes you want to shut your laptop and walk away, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Glenda sits down with systems and Google tools expert Adrienne Farrow to break down what SOPs actually are, why they matter for travel advisors, and how to create them without overcomplicating your business. They talk candidly about ADHD brains, delegation resistance, and the hidden cost of “it's just easier to do it myself.” This episode shows you how to start documenting what you already do, use simple screen recordings instead of long documents, and build systems that support delegation, consistency, and growth without killing your creativity. If you want a business that does not fall apart when you step away, this is where it starts. Connect with Adrienne: https://www.adriennefarrow.com/ SOP Workshop with Adrienne , Special coupon at checkout! https://store.adriennefarrow.com/products/systematize-with-sops-workshop?variant=46070315581618 Check out our Educational & Coaching Programs: Facebook Ads for Travel Advisors: https://www.travelsalesauthority.com/facebook How to build an email list for Travel Advisors: https://artofsellingtravel.com/cold Looking to grow your travel business? Join the Travel Advisor Success Studio today: https://artofsellingtravel.com/tass Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelagentobjections Are you following me on socials? I love doing random Ask Me Anythings - and you'll only see those if you're following me. Come hang out on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/artofsellingtravel/ Or FB at https://www.facebook.com/artofsellingtravel
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Get me as your personal photographer at Summer Camp at Sea: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/Join Korrine and I on Feb 10th at 3pm EST: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/offers/view/1192150Most travel advisors are doing the connecting part of business with emails and social media, but completely missing the meeting part where you actually get clients. The marketing matrix shows you exactly where to focus your energy across four phases, and I'm breaking down specific tactics for each one, including which activities only you can do versus what you might outsource. You'll hear real talk about why not everyone in your network should be a client, how to get featured on podcasts and media as a guest expert, and why your discovery calls need better questions. If you need more clients and less busywork, grab your notebook for this one. Questions this episode answers:What is the marketing matrix for travel advisors? Why is social media not getting me travel clients? How do travel advisors get more clients proactively?What networking strategies work best for travel advisors? Should travel advisors attend networking events or focus on social media? How do I convert leads into paying travel clients? What is the difference between attracting clients and meeting clients? Can I outsource my travel business marketing? How do travel advisors stay top of mind with past clients? What marketing activities should travel business owners do themselves?Whitney's Session on Prep for Wave Week: https://youtu.be/H4FwXgpls2kTee McNeill's Session on Host Week: https://www.youtube.com/live/7gWMn_BMbdk?si=Wqbr82ZhW4vuNGiV&t=18268Enjoy (and take action)!--------------------------------------------------------------- Rita M. Perez (Host) first began in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2010. She only fully realized her role as a travel entrepreneur in 2018, and embarked on a mission to support her fellow travel advisors in 2021 when she began the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast. She now consults and strategizes with travel entrepreneurs, so they, too, can be empowered in travel entrepreneurship. She's on a mission to help travel advisors grow profitable travel businesses that are sustainable to their individual lifestyles and needs. Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
In this month's Shop Talk, Brianna and Whitney kick off the new year by getting real about inbox overwhelm, coming back from time off, and what it actually feels like to start fresh after the holidays. They explore the idea of using “fun” as a decision making filter in your travel business, from which inquiries you say yes to, to how you define success day to day. Whitney shares how reframing niching as “does this sound fun?” has shifted how she approaches client work. Brianna reflects on scarcity mindset, people pleasing, and the importance of protecting her time and energy. They unpack what it looks like to curate your book of business intentionally instead of reacting from habit or fear. Tune in for a reminder that building a profitable travel business does not have to mean sacrificing joy, boundaries, or yourself in the process.
Travel Agent Achievers - To Educate, Encourage and Empower Travel Professionals
High-touch service doesn't happen by accident. It's built through systems, boundaries, and smart decisions behind the scenes. In this episode, Roslyn is joined by Ali Raymer, a senior travel advisor based in the US with Picture This Travel, for an honest, advisor-to-advisor conversation about what it really takes to deliver a personalised client experience while managing a high volume of bookings. Together, they pull back the curtain on the mechanics behind a high-touch travel business. From protecting the parts of the role that truly matter, to letting go of tasks that no longer serve growth or sustainability. This episode is especially relevant for travel advisors who are busy, stretched, or starting to feel the pressure of growth and want to scale without losing control or burning out. In this episode, you'll hear: What "high-touch" service really looks like day to day as volume increases How Ali decided what to protect in her role and what to delegate Why consult calls remain a non-negotiable in her business What she let go of first as her business grew and why How systems and simple structure support consistency and confidence Why even repeat clients need to be guided back into your process Find the full episode details and show notes here:
CesarRespino.com is exited to bring to you at You Can Overcome Anything! Podcast Show Robert Lee.He is the co-founder of Swift Passport & Visa Services and a seasoned entrepreneur in the international travel space. With a strong background in business and a personal foundation as a yoga teacher, Rob blends mindfulness with strategic leadership. His human-centered approach has helped him navigate complex challenges while driving innovation. Under his leadership, Swift has grown into a tech-forward company known for simplifying global travel logistics and delivering exceptional, personalized service. Rob's unique perspective continues to shape the future of travel solutions, balancing efficiency with empathy.Robert Lee's message to you is:Success isn't just about building something big - it's about building something meaningful. Stay true to your values, lead with intention, and don't be afraid to slow down and breathe, even in business. That's where the clarity and real innovation happenTo Connect with Robert Lee go to:https://www.facebook.com/SwiftPassporthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eelbor/https://www.instagram.com/swiftpassportservices/https://www.swiftpassportservices.com/To Connect with CesarRespino go to:
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Finally work on your travel business at Summer Camp at Sea: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/I don't know about you, but 2025 was a dumpster fire in so many ways.It also had some incredible wins I didn't see coming. I'm pulling back the curtain on everything from major health struggles and revenue misses to Summer Camp at Sea success and hitting that 1,000+ attendee goal for Prep for Wave Week. You'll hear the unfiltered truth about what worked in my travel education business, what flopped hard, and why my word for 2026 is all about craving stability after this chaotic year. If you're tired of the highlight reel BS and want honest insights on building a travel business through the messy stuff, grab your bevvie and let's chat. Questions this episode answers:How do you handle major health challenges while running a travel business?What are the biggest lessons from running travel industry events in 2025? How early should you promote a group trip or travel event? Why is specificity important when marketing to travel clients? How can travel advisors use networking to grow their business? What makes Summer Camp at Sea different from other travel advisor eventsHow do you recover from missing Black Friday sales goals? Why do face-to-camera reels matter for travel marketing in 2026? How do you know when it's time to rebrand your travel business? What are the signs you need professional branding for your business?How can AI tools help travel advisors with content marketing? Enjoy (and take action)!---------------------------------------------------------------Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
If you've ever said “I just need one more training,” this episode is for you. In this conversation, I'm talking about the real reason so many travel advisors stay stuck. It's not lack of knowledge. It's not lack of talent. It's staying in consumption mode instead of moving into implementation. Webinars feel productive. Courses feel safe. Learning gives you permission to delay the hard parts. Putting yourself out there. Making decisions. Asking clients to book. We're unpacking why consumption becomes a comfort zone, how it protects you from rejection, and why implementation is the difference between advisors who grow and those who stay frustrated year after year. I also share why this exact pattern is what led me to create the Accelerator and what actually happens when you give yourself space to work on your business instead of constantly reacting inside it. If you're heading into a new season of business and know something needs to change, this episode will challenge you in the best way. Ready to move from learning to doing? Join us inside the Accelerator. Check out our programs: Join Accelerator 2026: https://artofsellingtravel.com/2026 Facebook Ads for Travel Advisors: https://www.travelsalesauthority.com//facebook How to build an email list for Travel Advisors: https://artofsellingtravel.com/cold Looking to grow your travel business? Join the Travel Advisor Success Studio today: https://artofsellingtravel.com/tass Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelagentobjections Are you following me on socials? I love doing random Ask Me Anythings - and you'll only see those if you're following me. Come hang out on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/artofsellingtravel/ Or FB at https://www.facebook.com/artofsellingtravel
Today we are breaking down Amadeus, the dominant infrastructure powering global travel bookings. If you've used a travel agent or corporate booking system, you've likely interacted with Amadeus's technology—though most of what they do happens behind the scenes in airline operations, hotel inventory management, and logistics coordination. Ben Needham, portfolio manager at Ninety One Asset Management, explains how Amadeus built its market-leading position, common investor misconceptions about the business, and the company's value proposition across the travel ecosystem. We also explore AI's potential impact on the industry and how Amadeus's balance sheet strength positions it relative to competitors. Please enjoy this breakdown of Amadeus. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to the best content to learn more, check out the episode page here. —- This episode is brought to you by Portrait Analytics - your centralized resource for AI-powered idea generation, thesis monitoring, and personalized report building. Built by buy-side investors, for investment professionals. We work in the background, helping surface stock ideas and thesis signposts to help you monetize every insight. In short, we help you understand the story behind the stock chart, and get to "go, or no-go" 10x faster than before. Sign-up for a free trial today at portraitresearch.com — Business Breakdowns is a property of Colossus, LLC. For more episodes of Business Breakdowns, visit joincolossus.com/episodes. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Show Notes (00:00:00) Introduction to Amadeus (00:02:49) Understanding Amadeus' Business Model (00:04:11) Amadeus' Market Position and Competitors (00:05:35) Historical Background of Amadeus (00:07:25) Revenue Streams and Profitability (00:10:50) Impact of AI and Technology on Amadeus (00:13:07) Revenue Models and Pricing Mechanics (00:22:35) Growth Opportunities and Market Dynamics (00:25:47) Execution and Future Prospects (00:30:01) Financial Health and Capital Allocation (00:31:57) Valuation and Market Perception (00:34:21) Risks and Challenges (00:37:13) Lessons From Amadeus
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Finally work on your travel business at Summer Camp at Sea: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/Want to know exactly what I'd be looking at if you hired me as your Chief Marketing Officer? I'm walking you through my complete audit process, from reviewing your messaging and voice of customer research to evaluating your ROI and figuring out what's actually driving results in your travel business. This isn't about throwing spaghetti at the wall or doing all the marketing things because someone in a Facebook group said so. We're getting strategic, intentional, and making sure every marketing dollar and every hour you spend is actually moving the needle toward your 2026 goals. Questions this episode answers:What does a Chief Marketing Officer do for a travel business?How do I conduct a marketing audit for my travel agency?What should I review first when evaluating my travel business marketing?What is a Voice of Customer audit and why does it matter for travel advisors?How do I evaluate which marketing channels are working for my travel business?What marketing metrics should travel advisors be tracking?How do I know if I'm spending money in the right places for marketing?How do I audit my website copy and messaging as a travel advisor?How often should I update my brand photos and marketing assets?What should I include in my marketing matrix as a travel advisor?How do I evaluate my marketing ROI in my travel business?Which marketing investments are worth it for travel agency owners?How do I know when to stop using a marketing strategy that isn't working?How do I identify my ideal client for better marketing results?Should travel advisors attend marketing conferences or industry events?Enjoy (and take action)!---------------------------------------------------------------Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
This week, I welcome Joshua Harrell, Chief Revenue Officer at WorldVia Travel Network, to the show to discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a new record for TSA, a new campaign from the DOT, and more. Later, Harrell provides insights on how travel advisors can boost their business. Hear his thoughts on what advisors should be doing on social media and why they shouldn't overlook e-mail. Harrell gives his top tips for how travel advisors can improve as we get ready for a new year. The discussion on boosting your travel business begins after the 14-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 180 destinations worldwide including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign-up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Shop Travel Industry Black Friday: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/blackfridayGet the Black Friday Bingo Board for giveaways: https://programs.steeryourmarketing.com/products/offers/view/1189130Summer Camp at Sea: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/What if the only thing standing between you and a thriving travel business is your own mindset? I'm chatting with the amazing Iris from wmnsWORK and By Iris about what it really takes to build a successful travel business. Spoiler alert: it's not about having the perfect strategy or working yourself into the ground. We're talking mindset shifts, finding your people through peer support, and why leaning into your weird, unique story is actually your biggest competitive advantage. Iris also shares how her tourism accelerator has helped travel entrepreneurs quit their 9-to-5s and triple their bookings without the burnout. If you're ready to stop playing small and start betting on yourself, you're going to love this conversation. Learn more about the wmnsWORK Tourism Accelerator: https://wmnswork.com/Questions this episode answers:How do I build a successful travel business without burning out?Why is mindset more important than strategy for travel entrepreneurs?What is the wmnsWORK Tourism Accelerator and how can it help my travel businessHow do I stand out from other travel advisors in a crowded market?What skills do I need to start a travel business?How do I build confidence as a new travel advisor?How can I use AI in my travel business?What is a DMC and how do travel advisors work with them?How do I manage my energy as a small business owner?How do I tell my story to attract the right clients?What is a rep company in the travel industry?How do I price my services as a travel advisor?Why should I lean into my personal story as a travel business owner?Enjoy (and take action)!---------------------------------------------------------------Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
This is the projected title of my new booklet focusing on travel success. Titled The 6 Steps For Building a Successful Travel Business I am sharing the topics which I feel will make all the difference in the world. They include visibility, differentiation, marketing, communication, presentation and attitude. The book is still being written so it is not available yet. I am shooting for the first of the year. If you would like to be kept in the loop, send me an email indicating your interest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If your travel business is thriving on paper but you sometimes feel like you are barely holding it together, tune into this episode where Brianna shares the real signs that you're ready to hire and what it looks like to step into leadership with intention. Explore the financial and mindset shifts that turn hiring from a scary leap into a strategic next step. Walk away after this episode knowing exactly how to prepare for growth and what it means to build a business that runs for you, not because of you.
JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY → Mark your calendar for Rep Rundown - Happening Oct. 29th & 30th! Think your business isn't “sellable”? Think again! Shay Bacani, founder of Centura Financial, joins Robin and Jennifer to discuss what it really means to build a business that can operate (and even sell) without you. She shares how to stop playing small, why profit is the number that actually matters, and how to turn your lifestyle business into a true asset. From knowing your numbers to hiring top-down and documenting everything, Shay makes the intimidating side of money and valuations feel surprisingly doable. Hit play to get your financial wake-up call and start treating your business like the valuable asset it is! About Shay Bacani: Shay is the founder of Centure Financial and a Certified Financial Planner who helps entrepreneurs turn lifestyle businesses into true assets. She believes every business owner should understand their numbers and how those numbers drive scalability, sustainability, and long-term valuation. With a passion for education, Shay translates complex financial concepts into actionable strategies that empower her clients to build wealth and make confident decisions. Her approachable yet strategic style has made her a trusted guide for business leaders who want to align day-to-day operations with long-term growth. centurefinancial.com/meet-founder Today we will cover: (03:20) Meet Shay (05:50) What it means for a business to be “sellable” (11:45) The financial foundations that make or break your valuation (24:30) Why business is moving back to community and transparency (32:00) Hiring top-down; why a fractional C-suite can change everything (36:25) What metrics to track as you scale to multi-six figures and beyond (46:45) Understanding valuations and how investors really price your company (50:40) The inner work of building a business that lasts VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ Thanks to Our Tique Talks Sponsors: Moxie & Fourth - Register Now for Route To Results Cozy Earth - Use code COZYTIQUE for 20% off
Sarah sits down with Rachel, a spirited creative and entrepreneur, to talk about how she followed two passions and turned them into thriving businesses: a music school and a travel company. Rachel shares the real behind-the-scenes of transitioning from preschool teacher to founder of Blue Balloon School and Brooklyn Family Travelers. What You'll Learn Why burnout actually led to business clarity Rachel's struggles with delegation—and how she's learning to let go Lessons from crossing industries (guitar to global travel?! Yes, really.) How to manage multiple businesses and still live the dream (with boundaries!) Related Episodes You Might Love Ep. 294: Scale Your Business Without Burning Out with AnnMarie Rose https://sarahwalton.com/scale-business-without-burnout/ Ep. 131: How Do You Grow a Business When Your Schedule Is Crazy? https://sarahwalton.com/grow/ Ep. 207: Let Your Ambition Fly with Monique Allen https://sarahwalton.com/ambition/ Connect with Rachel Lipson Blue Balloon School → www.blueballoonschool.com Brooklyn Family Travelers → https://www.brooklynfamilytravelers.com/ IG → https://www.instagram.com/blueballoonschool/ Free family travel tips → https://www.instagram.com/bkfamilytravelers/ About Rachel Lipson An entrepreneur, songwriter, educator, points and miles expert, and avid family traveler, Rachel is the founder and CEO of two companies: Blue Balloon Songwriting for Small People (a songwriting school for kids) and Brooklyn Family Travelers, a platform dedicated to helping families travel meaningfully and affordably (mostly on credit card points!) with kids in tow. Rachel has been featured dozens of times in various publications, including the New York Times, New York magazine, The New York Post, Time Out, Forbes, Bloomberg, Condé Nast, Inc., Success, and more. She has appeared on many podcasts and panels and has built multiple successful businesses in the fields of music, entrepreneurship, travel, and education. Rachel lives in Park Slope, Brooklyn, with her husband, two kids, and a pup, and while she loves traveling the world, there is no place like home. Free gift from Sarah Book a free 15-minute call to explore working together: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/60d4f7f6/appointment/52999780/calendar/909961?appointmentTypelds%5B%5D=52999800 Ready to shift from chasing to receiving in your business? Book your call with Sarah today and discover how The Abundance Academy can help you scale with soul, strategy, and sanity. Work with Sarah Apply for The Abundance Academy group coaching program https://sarahwalton.com/abundance-academy/ Connect with Sarah Website: https://sarahwalton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahwalton/ You can check out our podcast interviews on YouTube, too! http://bit.ly/YouTubeSWalton Thank you so much for listening. I'm honored that you're here and would be grateful if you could leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here, scrolling to the bottom, and clicking "Write a review." Then, we'll get to inspire even more people! (If you're not sure how to leave a review, you can watch this quick tutorial.) About Sarah Walton Sarah Walton is a business coach specializing in helping women entrepreneurs overcome internal barriers to success. With a background in trauma-informed coaching and nervous system regulation, she takes a holistic approach that addresses both mindset and tactical business skills. Featured on The Today Show and speaking at women's conferences worldwide, Sarah has helped hundreds of women build profitable, sustainable businesses aligned with their values while healing the deeper blocks that keep them playing small. She's the creator of The Money Mindset Course, The Abundance Academy, and Effortless Sales, and the host of the 5-star-rated Game On Girlfriend® Podcast, becoming the go-to source for women who want to build businesses that honor both their ambition and their nervous system's need for safety.
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Andrea Ross, Business Advisor & Executive Coach for Travel Entrepreneurs, all about what it takes to build a successful business in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. She explains why focusing on enterprise value and enterprise health is hugely important and why you should not only know what success means to you, but also know how to track it. We also dive into the three key areas that businesses should focus on: financials, process and procedures, and their team. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Andrea built a successful travel and tourism business in Southeast Asia by bootstrapping a bed and breakfast, launching a tour company, and ultimately scaling operations across several countries Why business owners must create their own vision and business model What enterprise value and enterprise health mean for travel businesses, and why focusing on these is essential for day-to-day operations and long-term sustainability How business owners can assess the health of their company, build a roadmap for growth, and differentiate between working on what's urgent versus what's important Why financials, processes and procedures, and team development are the three most common areas where travel businesses should focus to improve their enterprise health How developing strong leadership, empowering team members, and building the right organizational structure can give owners more freedom and drive business success What steps Andrea recommends for business owners who want to understand their financials better, even if numbers aren't their strong suit, and how to leverage resources and networks to build financial literacy Core Success Principles in the Travel and Tour Industry One of the biggest challenges Andrea highlights is the sheer variety of business models in travel and tourism. With tour operators, DMOs, DMCs, and FITs, each with unique structures, founders are often left to chart their own course. Overarching business principles still apply: passion, dedication, clear vision, and hard work are the fuel for any successful enterprise—regardless of geography or sector. Knowing your market, defining your unique value, and setting clear, achievable goals are all foundational. Andrea encourages business owners to continually ask: “What does success look like for me, and how am I tracking that?” Treat Your Business as an Asset A recurring pitfall is failing to view your business as the major asset it is. Many travel business owners pour years of effort and substantial financial resources into their companies, but neglect to plan for the long game. They're not running their organization so it can be handed over, acquired, or at least run independently of their daily presence. Andrea advocates setting a clear vision to build flexibility and freedom into the business. Whether your goal is acquisition, succession, more time to travel, or simply reducing burnout, only a defined destination can chart the course. And, critically, this vision should evolve with you. Three Pillars of a Healthy Travel Business Andrea identifies three areas where travel businesses most often need shoring up: Financials: Clean, timely reporting, a growth pro forma, and cash flow planning are essential, especially in an industry marked by seasonality and complexity. Processes & Procedures: Too many companies operate with critical knowledge trapped in someone's head. Andrea recommends mapping your customer journey and using tools (like Tango AI) to document workflows, templates, and best practices so anyone can step in when needed. The Team: Your people determine your company's fate. Leaders have to empower teams, develop leadership so urgent problems aren't always landing on their plate. As Andrea says, “work on what's important, not urgent”. Step back from daily fires and focus on what matters for long-term health. Set a vision, track progress, and work on big picture issues rather than constant firefighting. Resources: andrea@cultivateadvisors.com www.kaanect.life Health and Value Assessment Tango AI Customer Journey Template We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
Dreaming of turning your love for travel into something more? In today's episode, I sit down with Allison Collier, founder of the Collier Travel Collective, who has built a boutique travel agency specializing in creating unforgettable life experiences. Allison shares how she transformed her passion for exploring the world into a thriving business, all while setting boundaries, bringing her family into the work, and redefining what luxury really means. If you've ever thought about blending business and lifestyle—or you just want some behind-the-scenes insight into creating stress-free, joy-filled trips—you won't want to miss this conversation. Today you will hear:How Allison turned her passion for travel into a business after years focused on family, and why energy and enthusiasm were key to getting started.The unique approach that makes her stand out in a competitive travel industry—blending logistics, hospitality, and deep client care.Why defining “luxury” as time, connection, and peace of mind resonates more than high-end frills.Practical strategies for setting boundaries as an entrepreneur and structuring your business around travel.Allison's perspective on why travel is one of the best educational experiences you can give yourself and your family. CONNECT WITH ALLISON:Website: https://www.colliertravelcollective.com/Instagram: @colliertravelcollectiveFREE RESOURCE - Destinations We Love in 2025: https://colliertravelcollective.myflodesk.com/2025guideig
Travel Agent Achievers - To Educate, Encourage and Empower Travel Professionals
In this inspiring episode, Ros sits down with long-time friend and award-winning itravel advisor, Lyndall Collins, to talk about what it really means to build a travel business that grows and adapts with life. With over 30 years in the industry and more than 14 years running her own successful home-based business, Lyndall shares her journey from starting out in retail travel, to raising her daughters while working from home, to being named one of itravel's Top 3 Mobile Advisors in 2024. Lyndall opens up about the transitions she's experienced from juggling young kids while growing her client base, to rediscovering her passion after the pandemic, to stepping into a new season of life as a grandmother. Her story highlights the challenges and choices that come with balancing family, business, and personal fulfilment. In this conversation, you'll hear: How Lyndall first got started in travel and why she never really left What it was like balancing a travel business while raising two daughters The big changes she faced during the pandemic and how she rebuilt her business with community and connection How she manages boundaries, avoids burnout, and chooses what projects to focus on now Why success today looks very different to what it did 10 or 15 years ago The role of the Achievers Mastermind and live events in giving her the community, tools, and inspiration to keep evolving This episode is a beautiful reminder that success isn't just about sales figures or awards (though Lyndall has those too!). It's about creating a business that supports the life you want with freedom, family, and fulfilment at the heart of it all. Whether you're in the early stages of business, navigating family life, or stepping into a new chapter, Lyndall's wisdom will inspire you to define success on your own terms.
Love travel and planning it, but hate the sales part? In this episode, Brianna and guest Glenda from The Art of Selling Travel delve into the art of sales and client relations. Glenda shares her seasoned approach to pricing negotiations and reframing rejection, all while maintaining an authentic human connection. She provides invaluable insights on asking the right questions and building rapport that help build connections with clients. Through this candid discussion and personal stories, they unravel the complexities of selling travel experiences, advocating the power of conversation over assumption.*For the next few weeks, enjoy replays of listener favorite episodes that were previously behind a paywall. We will be back soon with newly-recorded content.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dominic Adams.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dominic Adams.