Podcast
Destination On The Left
Hosted by Nicole Mahoney · EN
Destination On The Left is a travel and tourism industry podcast hosted by Travel Alliance Partnership. Each episode explores successful collaborations, creative marketing ideas and best practices for both consumer and travel trade marketing programs. Interviews are a mix of Destination Marketers, Industry Leaders, Consultants and businesses in the industry.
32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
478. Using AI to Transform the Visitor Experience, with Michael Herrmann
1w ago00:41:34Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Michael Herrmann, President and Founder of Tour Connect AI. Michael shares how operating a bike rental company in Sydney, Australia, led him to develop a technology to help DMCs become more efficient. You'll hear why Michael believes AI won't replace the human touch in tourism, it will amplify creativity, improve collaboration, and drastically improve efficiency. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Michael transitioned from a technology consultant to founding a bike tour company in Australia, then creating Tour Connect AI Why understanding regional differences and customer behaviors is critical when adapting across global tourism markets How using AI allows tour operators to focus more on human-centric tasks, such as building relationships Why rapid response to itinerary requests significantly increases booking conversion rates How AI-driven collaboration supports efficiency and customer experience How Tour Connect uses AI integration to build better customization Why AI in tourism is set to democratize advanced technology for organizations of all sizes From Hands-On to Digital Solutions Michael began his career as a technology consultant with Ernst and Young, but a leap to starting a bicycle tour company in Sydney, Australia, opened his eyes to the complexities of tourism operations. His American roots and European business model faced unique challenges in the Australian market, though travelers stayed longer and booking patterns were drastically different. This experience exposed Michael to the inefficiencies in the travel industry, especially for DMCs and inbound tour operators who juggle thousands of suppliers and use outdated processes. These operational bottlenecks, combined with the travel industry's dependence on static annual contracts, paper forms, and institutional knowledge, inspired Michael to found Tour Connect, which aims to streamline collaboration through technology and, eventually, AI. Breaking Down AI-Powered Itinerary Building The industry conversation about AI usually focuses on generic tools like ChatGPT. Michael stresses that genuine transformation only comes from integrating AI into the actual business environment. Tour Connect's approach uses a company's real supplier contracts, negotiated rates, and established relationships. By tapping into existing booking systems, AI can pull all necessary information—dates, guest counts, preferences, allergies—and compose an accurate, bookable itinerary with remarkable speed and consistency. Collaboration and Speed Speed isn't just a matter of convenience, it's a key driver of conversion. Failing to respond to a group itinerary request within 24 hours can result in a devastating 40% drop in the likelihood of booking. With travelers often sending concurrent requests to operators in various destinations, it's the fastest, most polished reply that captures their imagination first, building anticipation and attachment to a particular place. AI-powered workflow automation enables faster supplier confirmations, quote turnarounds, and itinerary delivery, helping teams to focus on relationship-building rather than firefighting. Resources: Website: www.tourconnect.ai LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-herrmann-768ab6/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tourconnect-llc/
Transcribe →477. Reinventing Rental Logistics and Customer Experience, with Jason Bullock
2w ago00:40:39Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jason Bullock, Founder of Bodhisys and owner of Carolina Rides, about how delivering excellent customer service depends on systems and processes that support the many moving parts of reservations, inventory, and deliveries. He shares why he developed Bodhisys, a reservation management system tailored for the unique needs of rental businesses, optimizing everything from inventory management to delivery efficiency. Listen in as we discuss the importance of streamlined operations in creating exceptional customer experiences and fostering industry collaboration. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Jason transitioned from a background in logistics and packaging to owning and operating multiple vacation rental and bike businesses Why customer service and efficient logistics are crucial for success in the rental industry Challenges Jason faced with existing reservation and booking platforms, and how this led to the creation of Bodhisys How Bodhisys uses technology to streamline inventory, delivery logistics, and communications, to provide a better customer experience Why seasonal pricing and adaptability in operations are important How Jason is partnering with competitors through technology and shared platforms to uplift the industry as a whole What impact technology-driven efficiencies have on customer satisfaction, repeat business, and overall profitability in the rental space The Art and Logistics of Rentals When most people think of the travel industry, glamorous destinations and dazzling activities come to mind. But Jason's world is more about the nitty-gritty of inventory management, deliveries, and keeping up with vacationers' evolving needs. His business delivers thousands of bikes and equipment items to vacationers at resorts and private rentals in the Hilton Head and Charleston areas. COVID-19 only magnified these challenges, as business whiplashed from 4% to 140% of historical sales within a week—forcing immediate innovation to keep up with demand and ensure guests received what they needed, when and where they needed it. The Birth of Bodhisys As business boomed, so did complaints—especially from frustrated guests who had trouble finding their rentals amid the sea of bikes and equipment. Seeing that traditional booking software wasn't designed for the logistics-heavy rental of "stuff," Jason was motivated by dissatisfied customers and exhausted employees to build a smarter system. The solution was building Bodhisys, a reservation management system purpose-built for logistics, inventory, and delivery—as opposed to the "activity first" platforms dominating the market. With features like photo geolocation of delivered items, automated customer messaging, and dynamic inventory management. Systems = Better Business, Better Experiences While the technology behind Bodhisys is robust, its true value lies in the ripple effect it creates for business owners and travelers alike. With real-time communications, automated reminders, and demand prediction, operators can plan staffing, adjust inventory, and meet seasonal swings without being blindsided. Importantly, these changes aren't just about operational ease, they have an impact on customer satisfaction. Similar to Amazon's familiar delivery notifications, Bodhisys provides travelers with the same transparency and reliability during their vacations. Which, in turn, leads to happier guests, less on-site confusion, and more repeat business. Resources: Website: https://bodhisys.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonbullock/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bodhisys/ 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!
Transcribe →476. Building Relationships and Long-Term Growth Through Travel Trade, with Rhonda Carges & Jordan Herson
3w ago00:35:57Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rhonda Carges, Executive Vice President at TAP, and Jordan Herson, Travel Trade Account Manager at TAP. Together, they share an inside look at the travel trade segment of the tourism industry and explore how destinations can build meaningful relationships with tour operators, meeting planners, media, and buyers. From trade show strategy and FAM tour planning to stakeholder education and long-term relationship building, Rhonda and Jordan discuss how thoughtful collaboration and integrated planning can help destinations create sustainable growth opportunities and stronger industry partnerships. What You Will Learn in This Episode: What travel trade includes and why it plays such a critical role in tourism marketing How destinations can build integrated travel trade strategies that align stakeholders and partners Why relationship building and intentional communication are essential for successful trade show activations How FAM tours help destinations create stronger buyer engagement and measurable results What destinations should consider when vetting buyers and planning trade trade outreach How education supports stronger collaboration between destinations, attractions, and travel professionals Why travel trade should be viewed as a long-term investment rather than a short sales cycle Understanding the Power of Travel Trade Rhonda and Jordan explain that travel trade represents the business-to-business side of tourism, connecting destinations with tour operators, meeting planners, event organizers, and other professionals who sell travel experiences to consumers. While leisure marketing often receives the spotlight, travel trade creates an important pathway for destinations to reach new audiences, including international travelers and organized group markets that may otherwise be difficult to access. The conversation highlights how integrated travel trade strategies require strong communication, clear priorities, and collaboration across partners and stakeholders. For statewide tourism organizations like New York State Division of Tourism, this means coordinating efforts across regions while helping destinations stand out through targeted messaging, relationship building, and strategic engagement opportunities. Creating Meaningful Connections Through Trade Shows and FAM Tours Trade shows remain one of the most valuable opportunities for building long-term industry relationships. Jordan shares how successful trade show activations begin with careful planning, buyer vetting, and alignment around goals, while Rhonda emphasizes the importance of using these events to strengthen authentic human connections across the industry. They also explore the role of FAM tours in helping buyers and media experience destinations firsthand. Jordan explains TAP's approach to FAM planning, and Rhonda adds that FAM tours often provide some of the clearest opportunities for measuring success because destinations can more easily track resulting coverage, itineraries, and future bookings. Education, Collaboration, and the Long-Term Value of Travel Trade Throughout the episode, Rhonda and Jordan return to the importance of education within the travel trade ecosystem. They discuss how destinations must educate not only buyers, but also their own stakeholders and partners about what it means to be "group ready," from accessibility and logistics to creating experiences that work for group travelers. The conversation also reinforces that travel trade is a long-term investment built on trust, consistency, and ongoing communication. Whether attending trade shows, hosting FAM tours, or participating in industry education, destinations that stay engaged and intentional are better positioned to build lasting partnerships and future visitation. Rhonda and Jordan share how follow-up, collaboration, and relationship management often become the deciding factors in turning industry connections into meaningful business opportunities over time. Resources: Website: https://travelalliancepartnership.com/ 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!
Transcribe →475. Bridging Cultures Through Scuba Diving Trips, with Melanie Marsell & Kathleen Hall
4w ago00:35:56Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kathleen Hall and Melanie Marsell, founders of Dive the Americas and Explore the Americas. Kathleen, who has called Costa Rica home for over a decade, and Melanie, who has roots in both the US and Central America, share the journeys of creating two innovative travel brands: Dive the Americas and Explore the Americas. We discuss how they're reshaping tourism by supporting local communities, collaborating with other travel professionals, and providing personalized guidance that helps travelers feel confident venturing into unfamiliar destinations. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Why Kathleen and Melanie chose scuba diving as a specialty, and how their personal experiences inspired Dive the Americas What sets their travel businesses apart in a crowded market, and how their deep regional expertise shapes their approach How living in the region and understanding both U.S. and local cultures helps Kathleen and Melanie create authentic, meaningful travel experiences Why saying no to misaligned business opportunities has been crucial in building companies that reflect their values How collaboration with other travel professionals and agents has fueled their growth and led to innovative new programs Steps Kathleen and Melanie are taking to promote responsible tourism and sustainability The Birth of Dive the Americas and Explore the Americas As novice divers, Kathleen and Melanie were struck by the lack of resources for beginner divers looking for immersive travel experiences in Latin America. The gaps they encountered while planning their own trips, from unreliable pickups to scarce destination information for divers, sparked the creation of Dive the Americas. They want to curate seamless, welcoming dive experiences and bridge the divide between underwater adventure and cultural travel. Standing Out by Putting People and Place First The competitive travel landscape makes standing out difficult, but Kathleen and Melanie credit their deep, lived local knowledge and passion for responsible tourism as their particular advantage. Their insider perspective lets them put together what both travelers and local communities need, ensuring sustainable, enriching exchanges for everyone. They stress the importance of supporting the economic well-being of local people, highlighting Costa Rica's leading role in renewable energy and commitment to responsible tourism as integral to every trip they design. This boots-on-the-ground dedication fuels deeply authentic, feel-good experiences for their guests, moving beyond just ticking off top attractions. Education, Sustainability, and Expanding Horizons Their latest projects tackle overtourism and champion authentic, less-trafficked experiences. Through a curated collection of restaurants, local businesses, and guides, the new initiative aims to provide both travelers and agents with up-to-date resources that keep the essence of places like Costa Rica intact, while distributing tourism benefits more equitably. Melanie and Kathleen believe education is key for travelers, agents, and partners so that everyone can make better, more aware choices. Resources: Website: www.exploretheamericastravel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exploretheamericastravel/ 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!
Transcribe →474. The 100th Anniversary of Route 66, with Rhys Martin
Apr 2900:26:54Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and Preserve Route 66 Manager for the National Trust for Historic Preservation. We explore the fascinating history and ongoing cultural impact of Route 66, and how this 2,448-mile linear village has driven economic growth and inspired travelers around the world for nearly a century. As Route 66 gears up for its Centennial Celebration, Rhys shares behind-the-scenes insights on managing a celebration of this magnitude, the creative events planned along the legendary highway, and how local and national organizations are working together to secure Route 66's legacy for future generations. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Rhys became passionate about Route 66 and took on leadership roles in both local and national organizations dedicated to its preservation Why Route 66 remains a powerful economic engine and cultural icon for communities What makes the centennial celebration of Route 66 such a significant milestone How planning such a widespread, multi-state centennial collaboration is managed How communities along Route 66 have adapted to changes over time, reinventing themselves to stay vibrant and relevant after the highway was bypassed Why increased communication and collaboration among state associations, local businesses, and international partners is crucial to ongoing success What creative and large-scale events, like the Capitol Cruise and national caravans, are being organized to celebrate Route 66's 100th anniversary How the Route 66 experience builds authentic connections between travelers, communities, and cultures Cultural Legacy of Route 66 Route 66 is a linear village, a chain of communities bound together by shared history and mutual destiny. Its legacy is evident in the preservation of historic theaters, vintage motels, quirky museums, and neon-lit diners, all lovingly maintained by local volunteers and business owners committed to keeping the legend alive. Over time, especially as interstates bypassed many towns, Route 66 evolved, communities that once faced decline have reinvented themselves as hubs of nostalgia and culture. Planning the Centennial With eight states and thousands of miles to coordinate, the Route 66 Centennial is a massive collaborative endeavor. Rhys shares how, since the 1980s, state Route 66 associations have formed a grassroots network, filling the organizational gap left when the federal designation was removed in 1985. These groups work together to create unified celebrations, coordinate marketing efforts, and share resources, exemplifying how communication and a shared purpose can overcome even vast geographical distances. The centennial plans include an ambitious Capital Cruise in Tulsa, aiming for a Guinness World Record with over 3,000 classic cars, cross-country caravans, and international motorcycle tours. The centennial is as diverse and dynamic as the road itself. Lessons in Partnership and Unity At the heart of Route 66's success is partnership, communication, and an ethos of shared benefit. What happens in Oklahoma brings value to New Mexico and Texas, and vice versa. The route becomes a metaphor for unity, proving that travel, when rooted in conversation and curiosity, can bridge differences and create genuine human connection. Resources: Website: https://oklahomaroute66.com/ Website: https://route66centennial.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oklahomaroute66 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj-jbzQdNt4g2eqSIqTG2mQ 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!
Transcribe →473. Connecting Community, Nature, and Visitors at Cayuga Lake, with Astrid Jirka
Apr 2200:43:08Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Astrid Jirka, Director of Tourism Initiatives at Discover Cayuga Lake. We discuss the difference between sustainable tourism and ecotourism, and Astrid shares more about the evolution of Discover Cayuga Lake from a community-focused organization into a tourism attraction. We also discuss the importance of being intentional and authentic in your messaging about your sustainable tourism goals and initiatives. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Astrid's professional journey, from international travel to study abroad initiatives, shaped her passion for sustainable tourism What distinguishes ecotourism from broader sustainable tourism practices How Discover Cayuga Lake evolved from a community-focused educational organization into an attraction that prioritizes local access and environmental education What strategies Astrid and her team use to ensure that tourism revenue directly benefits the local community Why being intentional and authentic is essential when communicating sustainable tourism initiatives, and what pitfalls to avoid in messaging How Discover Cayuga Lake is planning for a greener future by using electric boats to minimize environmental impact The advice Astrid offers to travelers and tourism operators on making conscious, community-focused, and sustainable choices From the Community Inward Many tourism attractions begin as external draws, building a product to entice outsiders and then, maybe, finding ways to circle back and benefit locals. Discover Cayuga Lake's origin story stands this model on its head. As Astrid explains, the nonprofit was founded as more than a cruise operator, it's a mission-driven initiative to connect residents with the natural wonder of Cayuga Lake and its surroundings. The organization started with local summer camp programming and environmental education for children, long before tourism was a central focus. This community-first approach shines through ongoing educational initiatives like the Floating Classroom, which brings local schoolchildren onto the lake to experience and understand watershed ecology, often for the first time. Turning Tourism Dollars Into Community and Conservation Wins A defining feature of Discover Cayuga Lake's business model is its use of earned tourism revenue to underwrite community access and environmental education. Tourists pay for enjoyable and informative cruises, then their dollars directly fund opportunities for local kids and support for the broader community. This integrated revenue model is possible and effective precisely because the organization operates as a nonprofit and is rooted in local partnerships and grant support. "We take that revenue, and we turn it over for community benefits and also to help essentially take care of the natural environment, which is the ultimate goal," says Astrid. Authentic Leadership in Destination Stewardship We also discuss the necessity of authenticity and intentionality, and building programs that genuinely support locals, communicate meaningfully with visitors, and ensure that sustainability isn't just a surface-level message, but something deeply woven into every aspect of the organization. Resources: Discover Cayuga Lake Astrid Jirka on LinkedIn 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!
Transcribe →472. Events & Major Milestones as a Catalyst for Future Growth: Community Conversation
Apr 1501:03:56Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Amir Eylon, CEO of Longwoods International; Debra Ross, author of "The Eclipse Effect" and founder of Kids Out and About; Jean Mackay, Deputy Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor; and Jennifer Miller, Domestic Tourism Manager for Visit Detroit. Our discussion is all about how events and major milestones, from sporting events and festivals to milestone anniversaries, can become catalysts for future tourism growth and regional transformation. The panel shares their perspectives on the importance of preparation, partnerships, and long-term thinking, and you'll hear some practical strategies for maximizing the economic impact and future opportunities that come with hosting special events, no matter the size of your organization or your budget. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How communities can strategically use major events and milestones as catalysts for economic development and future tourism growth Why early preparation and diverse partnerships are critical to successful event planning What recent research from Longwoods International reveals about American travelers' interest in events like America 250, FIFA World Cup, and the Route 66 Centennial How organizations have expanded their reach and strengthened community identity by leveraging large-scale events Why building partnerships creates lasting benefits that extend far beyond the event itself How event-driven connections foster long-term collaboration and resilience within communities Practical strategies panelists recommend for marketing events, engaging stakeholders, and sustaining the momentum for future opportunities The Power of Preparation One recurring theme across the panel was the vital importance of preparation. Debra Ross, who spearheaded Rochester's Eclipse Task Force explains that the most successful community events begin years in advance—sometimes long enough that people question your sanity! Preparation isn't just about logistics. It's about building community cohesion, nurturing enthusiastic leadership, and forging trust among diverse stakeholders. Healthy, resilient communities pull together early, overcoming skepticism, and allow space for a diverse range of voices and ideas. This diversity not only fuels creativity but also ensures that the event, and the connections it forges, resonate widely and last well beyond a single day. Events as Economic Engines Events have dramatic potential to spark economic growth, but the benefits often extend far past the event itself. Jean Mackay shared how the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor's bicentennial celebration was an investment in the region's future. Research revealed that events generate close to a billion dollars in annual economic activity along the canal. Armed with this knowledge, the Corridor's leadership expanded event sponsorship and created a marketing toolkit that united diverse partners under a single, cohesive brand. Similarly, Jennifer Miller details how Detroit has used sporting events—from the Super Bowl to the NFL Draft—to redefine its narrative as a vibrant, thriving city. Major events attracted international media, generated significant direct spending, and opened doors for future meetings, conventions, and leisure tourism, including bringing 775,000 people for the NFL Draft and more than $213 million in economic impact. Building and Sustaining Partnerships The secret sauce to transformative events lies in partnership. Whether through building a local host committee (a model started by Detroit and adopted by major sporting events nationwide) or cross-sector collaborations, successful organizers emphasize inclusivity and empowerment. Empowering organizations to run with the baton rather than wait for someone else to lead amplifies the reach and relevance of milestone events. These connections aren't just temporary. Debra shares how networks forged through eclipse planning served her community during a subsequent ice storm emergency, emphasizing the long-term value of partnerships. The American Astronomical Society's National Eclipse Task Force, for example, expanded their partnerships beyond scientists to include tourism, the arts, and transportation, strengthening future capacity and cross-pollination. Resources: Website: https://travelalliancepartnership.com/ https://travelalliancepartnership.com/events/events-major-milestones-community-conversation/ 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!
Transcribe →471. Building a Sustainable Future for Mongolian Tourism, with Jalsa Urubshurow
Apr 801:06:26Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jalsa Urubshurow, CEO and Founder of Nomadic Expeditions. Jalsa shares the story of how he co-founded one of Mongolia's most significant cultural events, the Golden Eagle Festival, held annually in the country's remote West. Drawing on his background as the child of Mongolian refugees and his decades of experience bridging entrepreneurship and heritage, Jalsa shares firsthand stories about partnering with local communities and creating initiatives that drive economic growth while protecting Mongolia's unique natural and cultural assets. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Jalsa pioneered luxury adventure travel to Mongolia and developed Nomadic Expeditions as a catalyst for sustainable tourism How tourism builds community empowerment and cultural preservation in Mongolia What inspired the revitalization of the Golden Eagle Festival, transforming a dying tradition into a thriving cultural event How sustainable tourism practices are woven into every aspect of the guest's business, including conservation, guide training, and eco-conscious hospitality How local partnerships support Mongolian culture, economy, and educational initiatives What challenges and opportunities exist for tourism infrastructure in Mongolia, and how access impacts the growth of the industry How Jalsa's deep-rooted passion and commitment to authenticity guide his leadership and vision for responsible travel Pioneering Luxury Adventure and Cultural Revival By the early 1990s, as Mongolia emerged from seven decades of Soviet influence, Jalsa was invited to play a pivotal role in reimagining the nation's future. Tasked by Mongolia's first democratically elected Prime Minister to advise on tourism, he saw an opportunity to chart a new course that blended economic progress with the revitalization of Mongolian heritage. Jalsa founded Nomadic Expeditions in 1992, and unlike operators who prioritized mass-market tourism, Jalsa focused on high-value, low-impact travel experiences. His approach was to bring discerning travelers, scientists, and educational groups to Mongolia, sharing the country's pristine wilderness and nomadic culture. Collaborations with institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and the American Museum of Natural History emphasize the importance of education, research, and immersive connection. Saving a Vanishing Tradition with the Golden Eagle Festival One of Jalsa's most popular initiatives is the Golden Eagle Festival, co-founded in 1999 in Western Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii province. Here, the art of eagle hunting, a 2,000-year-old Kazakh tradition, was on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 20 practicing families remaining. Through the festival, Jalsa and local partners sought not just to encourage tourism, but to spark a cultural renaissance. The result exceeded all expectations, and today, over 300 eagle hunter families participate, with a new generation of practitioners, many under 30, including remarkable young women, restoring pride and purpose to a once-fading heritage. Now recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural treasure and featured on Time magazine's World's Greatest Places list, the festival shows how sustainable tourism can simultaneously drive economic growth and revitalize events of cultural importance. Championing Community-Driven Tourism Jalsa is all about empowering local ownership and pride. Local guides are "culture bearers," not mere tour operators, sharing traditions learned as children. Investments in musical schools, architectural authenticity, and capacity-building ensure communities shape their future and reap tourism's rewards. Ultimately, as Jalsa says, the best advertising and promotion we can do is word of mouth and personal referral. Resources: Website: https://www.nomadicexpeditions.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalsa-urubshurow-a65ba046/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nomadic-expeditions-inc-/ 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!
Transcribe →470. From Total Eclipse to Community Impact, with Debra Ross
Apr 100:38:32Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Debra Ross, author, community engagement advocate, and entrepreneur. We talk about her recent book, The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities, and how it was inspired by planning for the 2024 total solar eclipse. Drawing from her experience planning for the 2024 total solar eclipse and spearheading community engagement initiatives. Debra also shares her practical strategies for turning extraordinary events into lasting networks. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Debra transitioned from a marketing technology background to becoming involved in the travel industry Why major catalysts have the power to bring communities together and create networks The principles Debra has identified for building strong communities How defining success up front and celebrating milestones can lead to lasting impact beyond a single event Why diversity in community groups is essential for effective network creation Strategies Debra recommends for building social capital through deliberate introductions and curiosity How ordinary people can step into leadership roles and inspire others within their communities Leadership, Connection, and Diversity Debra discusses why leadership in the context of connection is profoundly anti-authoritarian. Leaders aren't dictating directions, they're connecting people of varying backgrounds, interests, and skills, deliberately bridging gaps to foster collective action. The magic happens when we bridge social capital intentionally by introducing people who might otherwise never meet. Debra calls her approach "painfully cheerful," but stresses that making connections is hard work, leaders have to be persistent and positive, making it fun and inspiring for participants. Redefining Success and Embracing Failure We talk about redefining what success looks like in community efforts. It's not always attendance numbers or flawless execution, sometimes, events like the eclipse don't deliver perfect conditions—clouds marred Rochester's 2024 eclipse, yet years of preparation created a network and impact that extended far beyond a single day. Success is in the invisible connections and the tendrils of connection that outlast any temporary event. Disappointments, such as post-event letdown, logistical setbacks, or difficult challenges, also have value when viewed through the lens of community learning and resilience. Creating Lasting Impact with Everyday Leadership Anyone can be a community leader, you don't need official authority or a title. What leadership means is being curious, seeking out others, and intentionally knitting networks that support your community, whether for a major event or to respond quickly to emergencies. Redefine leadership as connecting, celebrating successes (big and small), and embracing failure as a growth opportunity. Tune your radar to notice moments of momentum, positive or negative, and by connecting diverse people around them, you help build something greater than the sum of its parts. Resources: Website: https://www.kidsoutandabout.com/ The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities by Debra Ross 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!
Transcribe →469. Empathy and Self-Awareness in Difficult Conversations, with Dayne Whitehurst
Mar 2500:37:54Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with communication and leadership specialist Dayne Whitehurst, and author of "Empathy Impact: The Wild Effects of Kindness in Action". She explains why communication is central to building collaborations, developing relationships, and driving sales. Dayne also explains how personal triggers can get in the way of our communications and provides strategies for identifying and pushing past those triggers. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Dayne became an expert in communication and de-escalation How recognizing and addressing triggers helps move conversations and collaborations forward What "experiencemanship" means and why it matters How self-awareness forms the foundation of strong leadership and partnerships Why habitual phrases with negative connotations can unconsciously undermine our intentions, and what to say instead How to lead difficult conversations with appreciation and validation to create a safe environment and produce positive outcomes Strategies Dayne recommends for building empathy in professional relationships and inviting authentic, supportive dialogue Building Trust Through "Experiencemanship" The tourism industry is fundamentally built on relationships, whether it's with team members, clients, or partners. For Dayne the secret to success isn't just salesmanship, but what she calls "experiencemanship"—the art of prioritizing the experience and needs of the other person over your own agenda. Effective leaders and sales professionals focus on what matters to the customer or partner, rather than getting bogged down in their own organization's goals. This mindset is especially crucial when communication channels are limited to calls, emails, or virtual meetings, settings where body language and other cues can be lost. Recognizing and Navigating Triggers One of the biggest obstacles to effective communication isn't always what's said, but what's felt. Dayne points out that we all bring triggers and unconscious biases into our interactions, our past experiences, expectations, and interpretations that color the way we hear and respond to others. Consider those moments of frustration, when a colleague misses a deadline, or a collaborator isn't as engaged as we'd like. Instead of spiraling into negative assumptions, Dayne encourages people to ask themselves if you know their whole story? Because often when people don't show up as we'd expect, it's a reflection of their stress or challenges, not about us at all. Becoming aware of these internal triggers and learning to step back is a crucial step to letting go of the need to control the outcome of every interaction. The Power of Empathy and Self-Awareness Empathy isn't just for the benefit of others, it's also a practice of giving ourselves grace and stepping out of the cycle of reactivity. By pausing to consider another's perspective, asking what might be going on behind the scenes, and validating their experience, we transform difficult conversations into opportunities for real connection. Self-awareness is key here. Recognizing your own default responses, strengths, and limitations—such as the tendency to "do it all" or react defensively, enables you to respond thoughtfully rather than reflexively. This makes you not only a better communicator but a more effective team player and leader. Navigating Difficult Conversations Difficult conversations are inevitable, especially in more tricky collaborations where not everyone can give equally. Dayne advises people to always begin with genuine appreciation, thank their partner for raising their perspective, recognize their efforts, and approach the conversation with openness rather than defensiveness. Offer validation by reflecting back their feelings or experience, and only express your own point of view if it's constructive for the partnership. This approach turns conflict into an opportunity for growth rather than a battleground for proving a point. Resources: Website: www.Daynewhitehurst.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daynewhitehurst/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Dayne-whitehurst/ 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!
Transcribe →