Insights from the American Bus Association’s Marketplace 2026 in Reno Part 2, with Nicole Mahoney
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with industry leaders from across the country at the American Bus Association’s Marketplace 2026 in Reno, Nevada, to uncover what’s next for destinations, attractions, and travelers. You’ll hear from Josef Kruger of US Ghost Adventures, Aisha Jones of Mystic Seaport Museum, Jana Carter from Visit…
Group Travel Trends for 2026: Voices from the ABA Marketplace in Reno Part 1, with Nicole Mahoney
This episode of Destination on the Left is a special roadshow edition recorded live at the American Bus Association’s Marketplace 2026 in Reno, Nevada. I’m joined by a fantastic group of industry leaders to hear first-hand how collaboration is playing a critical, mission-driven role in the future of group travel, moving beyond a “nice-to-have” and…
How Tourism Fuels Economic Growth in Rural Livingston County, with Maureen Wheeler and Ashley Comeau
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Maureen Wheeler, Deputy Director of Livingston County Economic Development, and Tourism Director Ashley Comeau to discuss the strategic moves Maureen’s department made to bring tourism under the same roof as economic development. We talk about business retention and expansion, building robust small destinations, and…
Using Tech to Create Exceptional Visitor Experiences, with Sondra Shannon
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Tech. Sondra and I discuss the art and importance of creating exceptional visitor experiences and how technology can help attractions remove friction for guests, increase revenue, and stand out in a competitive landscape. She also shares why keeping guests…
Prioritizing Return on Experience (ROX), with Lisa Conarton
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Lisa Conarton, CEO of LC Elevated Hospitality, who shares compelling examples of what it means to be a leader in the hospitality and tourism industry. We discuss the importance of building trust, why collaboration is key to success, and the difference between ROI and…
Local Culture, Design, and Wow Moments at the Mondrian Mexico City, with Claudia Di Gino
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Claudia Di Gino, General Manager at the Mondrian Mexico City Condesa. Claudia tells the story of building a lifestyle brand in the hotel industry, how partnerships play an important role, and what it means to be part of the community. She shares how her…
How Self Advocacy Fuels Innovation, with Neelu Kaur
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m joined by the dynamic Neelu Kaur, organizational psychologist, self-advocacy champion, author, and keynote speaker. Neelu dispels the myth that self-advocacy is boastful, and we discuss how advocating for yourself can actually be a generous and empowering act. She shares how leaders and teams can create environments…
Inside NTA Travel Exchange, with Nicole Mahoney
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m at the NTA Travel Exchange in Ottawa to speak with eight leading professionals shaping the future of group travel, tourism, and hospitality. You’ll hear insights from leaders who share the latest market trends, traveler behaviors, innovative approaches, and what’s ahead for 2026. The conversations explore the…
How Travel Priorities Have Evolved, with Erin Groh
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Erin Groh, Head of Marketing at iSeatz, a leading but often behind-the-scenes travel tech company powering loyalty programs for brands like American Express, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Qantas. Erin shares her fascinating career journey from traditional and digital media through to travel technology,…
Making Travel Accessible and Eco-Friendly Across Europe, with Oliver Winter
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Oliver Winter, CEO and Founder of a&o Hostels, for an inspiring conversation about his entrepreneurial journey, from traveling on a shoestring budget to building one of the largest hostel brands in the world. We talk about his focus on being a cost leader, not…







