Can AI Improve Visitor Experience? with Dan Flores
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Dan Flores, Head of Tourism at Satisfi Labs, all about using AI in the travel industry. We discuss how conversational artificial intelligence can help drive revenue and operational efficiency, and Dan offers real examples of where this AI is being deployed and how it…
Indigenous Tourism and Community Impact at Métis Crossing, with Juanita Marois
On this episode of Destination on the Left, Juanita Marois, CEO of Métis Crossing, shares her personal experience in developing a tourism destination tied to her roots as a Métis Indigenous person from Canada. She shares in detail how the destination engages visitors by sharing what makes them special, including the experiences Métis Crossing offers—from…
Collaboration Drives Success in Small Town Destination Marketing, with Clare Marie Ritter
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Clare Marie Ritter, Motorcoach Coordinator at the historic Penn Wells Hotel and Lodge in rural Pennsylvania. She shares her experience positioning a smaller, less well-known destination. We talk about the foundations of successful collaborations and why building a supportive network has been crucial to…
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…
Collaboration Toolkit
Our first research study confirmed that collaboration is a constant in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. It is not a matter of if, but when and how, organizations will collaborate together. Our latest study reveals how organizations are putting collaboration into operation and how they are setting up systems and processes so that collaboration becomes a strategic part of the organization.
"*" indicates required fields