Building Emotional Connections Through Storytelling, with Catherine Alonzo
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Catherine Alonzo, CEO at Javelina and host of the How to Change the World Podcast. She shares why story and travel are two sides of the same coin and breaks down how we should approach stories when trying to make a change or social…
The Power of Positive Intelligence, with Jill Peterson
In this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jill Peterson, Founder and Chief Growth Strategist at Clover Insights LLC. We discuss how to improve your mental fitness and build positive intelligence, and she explains the differences between your “survival brain” and your “sage brain.” Jill shares why improving your mental fitness leads…
Exploring 2024 Holiday Travel Trends and Consumer Insights, with Jonathan Kletzel
On this episode of Destination on the Left, Jonathan Kletzel, the Travel, Transportation, and Logistics Sector Leader at PwC, shares insights from the recently released PwC Holiday Outlook. This report examines holiday spending across various consumer segments and industries. We focus on travel trends for the 2024 holiday season and discuss the differences in spending…
Building Success through Bravery and Flexibility, with Rosa Harris
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands, about the importance of being open, flexible, and courageous as a travel professional. We talk about knowing who you are as a destination, being true to your strengths, and why honoring history, culture, and people…
Preserving Legacy and Building Connections, with Colleen Onuffer
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m thrilled to dive into an inspiring conversation that perfectly embodies our brand promise—”impact through connection, community, and collaboration.” We’re exploring the transformative power of strategic planning and emotional connections in the travel and tourism industry with Colleen Onuffer, the Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance…
Event Hosting and Tourism Success in Small Destinations, with Todd Read
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Todd Read, Senior Tourism Manager at SoIN Tourism, who shares more about the importance of building relationships for professional growth. Todd discusses the challenges SoIN has faced and how they have overcome them by creating strong partnerships. We also talk about hosting a travel…
Building Strong Industry Partnerships in the Travel and Tourism Industry, with Kristi Gole
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kristi Gole, EVP of Strategy at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), about the importance of collaboration and how the alliance helps these hotels compete against the world’s largest brands. Kristi shares examples of brand partnerships that GHA’s loyalty program has allowed them to start with…
The Evolution of the Travel Advisor, with James R. Ferrara
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with James R. Ferrara, Co-Founder & President of InteleTravel, about how the business navigated the pandemic, adapted to the shifting preferences of younger travelers, and strategically expanded their services. James also shares more about the company’s commitment to promoting mindful and sustainable travel practices and…
How AI Can Improve Traveler Experience, with Anna Jaffe
Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to…
Creating Immersive Travel Experiences by Rail, with Liz Owens
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted…