Podcast
Forward Motion
Hosted by Tourism Industry Association of Ontario · EN
Welcome to Forward Motion, the official podcast of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO). This is your go-to destination for insightful conversations, expert perspectives, and inspiring stories that drive Ontario’s tourism industry forward.
Each episode, Andrew Siegwart sits down with industry leaders, policymakers, business owners, and trailblazers who are shaping the future of tourism in Ontario. We’ll explore key trends, innovative strategies, and the challenges and opportunities facing our sector—from sustainability and workforce development to marketing, accessibility, and the latest government policies.
Whether you're a tourism operator, entrepreneur, community leader, or simply passionate about the industry, Forward Motion keeps you informed and inspired. Our goal is to foster collaboration, spark new ideas, and celebrate the resilience and creativity that make Ontario a world-class destination.
Join us as we navigate the evolving landscape of tourism, share success stories, and highlight the voices driving positive change. Because in this industry, staying ahead means always moving forward.
Hit Follow or Subscribe on your podcast app now and be part of the conversation. The future of Ontario tourism starts here!
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Destination Canada’s Playbook for Investment-Ready Tourism
2w ago00:46:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Forward Motion, Andrew Siegwart sits down with Johanna Griggs to explore the growing connection between tourism, economic development, and investment attraction.Drawing from her experience across municipal, provincial, and national tourism development, Johanna shares how tourism has evolved far beyond traditional marketing into a powerful tool for community regeneration, infrastructure growth, talent attraction, and long-term economic competitiveness.The conversation explores how Destination Canada is creating more space for destination management and investment readiness, helping position Canada as a leading global tourism investment opportunity. Johanna discusses the importance of building strong local ecosystems, fostering public support, leveraging tourism data, and aligning tourism with broader economic development priorities.Andrew and Johanna also discuss Ontario’s unique strengths, including gateway access, cultural diversity, strong domestic travel demand, and collaborative tourism networks. Together, they unpack what communities can do to become more investment-ready, why tourism is increasingly viewed as a resilient high-growth sector, and how tourism can support nation-building, business attraction, and Canada’s broader economic goals.From hotel investment and workforce challenges to global investment forums and regenerative tourism development, this episode offers valuable insights for tourism leaders, municipalities, DMOs, and economic development professionals looking to better understand tourism’s evolving role in shaping Canada’s future. Key Topics DiscussedThe evolution of tourism from destination marketing to destination managementWhy tourism investment differs from traditional economic development sectorsBuilding investment-ready tourism destinationsThe importance of tourism data, partnerships, and workforce planningDestination Canada’s tourism investment initiatives and global outreachOntario’s competitive advantages in tourism investmentTourism’s role in nation-building and economic resilienceThe future of DMOs and destination stewardshipLeveraging tourism to support broader economic and infrastructure developmentForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Shore Lunch, Shared Lakes, Unequal Playing Field: Fixing Cross-Border Angling Policy
4w ago00:41:11Tap to summarizeThis episode of Forward Motion dives into a growing challenge we've been hearing more and more about from operators in Northwestern Ontario. Andrew speaks with Laurie Marcil, Executive Director of the Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association, about how U.S. angling guides are increasingly bringing clients deep into Canadian border waters—profiting from a “Canadian experience” while contributing almost nothing to local communities or tax bases.Laurie explains how LMIA‑exempt work permits, bigger boats, and changes in border practices have created economic inequities, border security gaps, and serious conservation concerns for fisheries on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River. We talk about invasive species risks, lack of data and oversight, and why local outfitters, First Nations, municipalities, and other partners have formed a coalition to push for policy change, better enforcement, and true reciprocity with the U.S.We also explore what makes Northern Ontario tourism special: remote fly‑in and train‑in lodges, iconic shore lunches, authentic hosting, and emerging trends like more family and couple getaways grounded in sustainability and genuine connection to place.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Ontario’s Lakes Are Changing. Here’s What It Means for Tourism
Apr 2201:07:37Tap to summarizeWater is Ontario's most powerful tourism asset. Our 250,000 lakes drive billions in visitor spending every year — from angling and paddling to cottage country getaways and waterfront dining. But those lakes are changing in ways that are already affecting visitor experience, destination appeal, and long-term business viability. In this Earth Day episode, Andrew Siegwart speaks with Dr. John Smol, one of Canada's leading environmental scientists to understand what's happening beneath the surface, and what it means for our industry.About our Guest:Dr. Smol is one of Canada's most recognized environmental scientists and a leading voice on lake health and climate change. He held the Canada Research Chair in Environmental Change for the maximum three 7-year terms (2001–2021), has authored over 760 scientific publications and 24 books, and has conducted fieldwork on all seven continents. His PEARL Lab at Queen's University uses lake sediments to reconstruct centuries of environmental history — giving policymakers, municipalities, and industries the long-term evidence base they need to make better decisions. In 2013 he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada.What we Cover:The science of reading lake history from sediment cores — and what centuries of data reveal about how fast things are changing nowBlue-green algal blooms: why they're increasing, why the old solutions aren't working as well, and what operators in affected areas should knowLake trout, walleye, and the angling economy — Ontario holds ~25% of the world's natural lake trout populations, and warming waters are shrinking their habitatInvasive species at our doorstep: Asian carp and what it would mean for Great Lakes-based tourismIce fishing seasons at risk — some communities have already lost entire seasons due to unsafe ice conditionsWildfire smoke: how fires hundreds of kilometres away are already forcing visitors to stay indoors and cancel travel plansWhat the Montreal Protocol teaches us about galvanizing governments — and the role industry voices play in making that happenPractical starting points for operators who want to act on sustainability — and why Dr. Smol says the business case is stronger than everResources and Initiatives: Looking to take action or learn more? Explore these programs, tools, and organizations supporting sustainability across Ontario’s tourism ecosystem:GreenStep | Sustainability that moves business forwardTake the Pledge | Sustainable Tourism 2030 PledgeIngersoll Key PuttDiscover unique Native Experiences in OntarioSustainable KingstonAir Canada – Leave lessSustainability | VIA RailPlanning Resources for Responsible Events | Ottawa TourismForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Beyond the Matches: FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Ontario’s Opportunity
Apr 1700:44:21Tap to summarizeAndrew Siegwart explores what the FIFA World Cup 2026™ means for Ontario’s tourism industry and how destinations can leverage this once-in-a-generation opportunity.Andrew is joined by Alex Mazanik of Context Research Group’s (CRG), who shares insights from a market intelligence study commissioned by Destination Ontario. Based on a survey of 1,400 likely FIFA World Cup 2026™ visitors, the research examines how travellers are planning their trips and what will influence where they go beyond Toronto.The conversation highlights Toronto’s role as a base for visitors, with strong intent to explore other parts of the province. In fact, 9 in 10 travellers indicate they are likely to travel beyond the city, reinforcing the opportunity for destinations across Ontario.Andrew and Alex also explore a shift in traveller behaviour, with visitors seeking more than just the matches. Atmosphere and overall experience are key drivers, particularly among high-value travellers who are comfortable navigating multi-city trips.The discussion emphasizes the importance of clarity in converting interest into action. Travellers are looking for simple, well-defined experiences and practical information that make it easy to plan and explore.The opportunity is significant, but not guaranteed. Destinations that are clear, visible, and easy to plan will be best positioned to convert visitors into overnight stays and repeat visits.Explore the full research: FIFA World Cup 2026™ Market Intelligence StudyForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Ontario Budget 2026: Tourism’s Role in Ontario’s Economy
Mar 2600:33:53Tap to summarizeThis week’s episode of Forward Motion: The Ontario Tourism Podcast is a little different. Instead of an interview, host Andrew Siegwart shares some personal reflections as Ontario prepares to release its 2026 provincial budget, and what the tourism industry should be watching for.Drawing on conversations with industry leaders, recent government announcements, and the priorities outlined in Ontario’s new tourism strategy, Andrew offers an insider perspective on how tourism fits into the province’s broader economic story. He discusses why tourism should be seen not just as an industry, but as a practical tool for economic growth, workforce development, regional prosperity, and investment attraction.In this solo episode, Andrew walks through the key themes TIAO has been raising in its pre-budget advocacy including marketing and demand generation, workforce and training, private-sector investment, product development, and support for festivals, events, and Indigenous tourism, and he explains what signals he’ll be looking for when the budget is tabled.This is a candid, conversational update for anyone who wants to better understand how provincial policy decisions affect tourism businesses, destinations, and communities across Ontario and why this year’s budget could matter more than most.We’ll be back next episode with our regular interview format, but for now, thanks for listening — and for everything you do to keep Ontario’s tourism industry moving forward.📄 Read TIAO’s 2026 Pre-Budget SubmissionForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Elevating Black Tourism Experiences in Ontario
Mar 1200:54:26Tap to summarizeAndrew Siegwart explores how Black tourism in Ontario is evolving from a niche offering to an essential driver of both culture and the visitor economy.Guests Dionne Bishop (Events by Dionne Inc.) and Emma Rowley (Ontario’s Southwest) share their career paths in tourism and discuss how the Black Tourism Working Group organically grew into the Black Tourism Alliance of Ontario.They highlight the impact of the Black Tourism Spark Program, which has helped catalyze new Black-owned restaurants, culinary tours, and Black history experiences while building vital networks and mentorship opportunities.The conversation also explores standout destinations and experiences across Southwestern Ontario, including festivals, Underground Railroad heritage sites in Chatham-Kent and Windsor, and emerging culinary and storytelling ventures.Andrew, Emma, and Dionne discuss the economic power of Black travelers, the importance of visibility, safety, and authenticity in tourism, and the need for intentional partnerships between entrepreneurs, DMOs, RTOs, and community organizations.The episode offers a clear call to action: integrate Black-owned experiences into the heart of Ontario’s tourism story and recognize tourism as a tool for equity, belonging, and economic growth.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Kelly Jackson on Toronto’s Visitor Boom, FIFA World Cup 2026™, and the Next Decade of Growth
Mar 501:09:43Tap to summarizeToronto’s visitor economy is the focus of this week's guest, Kelly Jackson, Vice President of Destination Development at Destination Toronto. Listen in, while they unpack Toronto’s record-breaking 2025: 28.2 million visitors, $9.1 billion in visitor spending, and nearly $13.5 billion in total economic impact. Kelly explains how Toronto’s inclusive, globally connected yet distinctly Canadian identity, strong business events sector, and investment in experiences—from concerts and sports to culinary and culture—have driven growth, especially from international markets like the UK and Germany.They explore market diversification, air access challenges (including Asia and US routes), and the softening US market, along with a strategic shift toward targeting travelers by passion points rather than geography. Kelly highlights Toronto’s knowledge economy as a competitive advantage for attracting major conventions, the broader benefits that spill into regions across Ontario, and the city’s preparations for hosting FIFA World Cup 2026™ and a new 10‑year visitor economy master plan.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Danny Murrell and The Story Behind Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day
Feb 2300:39:14Tap to summarizeWe explore the origins and impact of Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day in Ontario through the story of Danny Murrell, founder and CEO of Harrison Staffing. Host Andrew Siegwart traces Danny’s journey from an international student at the University of Toronto—who stumbled into catering to pay the bills—to a purpose-driven entrepreneur building a people-first staffing company.Danny shares how early frontline experiences in serving and janitorial work shaped his belief in dignity, respect, and genuine human connection at work. He explains Harrison Staffing’s model, centered on flexibility and opportunity for newcomers and international students, and how word-of-mouth and strong culture drive the business.The episode then explores a simple question—“Why isn’t there a day to recognize hospitality workers?”— which led Danny to work with MPP Ernie Hardeman and secure unanimous support at Queen’s Park to formally establish Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, celebrating the people who power Ontario’s tourism industry.This episode was released on February 23 which is officially recognized as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, proclaimed through the Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day Act, 2025. This day honours over 426,700 workers in restaurants, hotels, and catering services.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Ready for What’s Next: Sebastian Benedict on the Future of Canada’s Tourism Industry
Feb 1200:50:47Tap to summarizeCanada’s tourism industry is emerging from recovery into a high-stakes transition, and TIAC President & CEO Sebastian Benedict argues that the sector is both underestimated and ready. In conversation with Andrew Siegwart, he traces his path from political staffer and lobbyist to national tourism advocate, explaining how listening to operators across Canada has shaped his agenda. Despite headlines about record visitor spending, he notes that many SMEs still struggle with labour shortages, access to capital, and air access, while federal policy shifts on immigration and international students are compounding workforce challenges. Benedict stresses that tourism is a service export and economic solution, not just “vacation,” and that fragmented advocacy weakens the sector’s influence in Ottawa. He calls for unity, stronger investment in marketing and destination development, better emergency preparedness, and more federal champions for tourism, emphasizing that the industry is resilient, mobilized, and poised to play a bigger role in Canada’s economic future.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism MonthlySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Special Edition: Andrew Interviewed
Dec 2800:53:48Tap to summarizeAndrew Siegwart, President of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario is interviewed by Samuel Miele and discussed the development of a five-year tourism strategy to address regional needs and economic conditions. The strategy includes forming strategic working groups and an alignment council to prioritize initiatives and measure success. Andrew emphasized the importance of diversifying tourism investments, including infrastructure and capital incentives, to attract both domestic and international visitors. He also highlighted the need for skills training and workforce development to address the current labor shortage. The conversation also touched on the impact of reduced international student numbers and the need for a balanced approach to tourism marketing and infrastructure investment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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