Business Class: The Global Tourism Leadership Conversation

Stephen Ekstrom
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

Business Class features conversations shaping the future of destinations, workforce development, regenerative tourism, leadership, and visitor economies. Presented by Learn Tourism | learntourism.org

  1. Edward Harris, Visit Williamsburg on Tourism, Sneakers, and America's 250th

    4d ago

    Edward Harris, Visit Williamsburg on Tourism, Sneakers, and America's 250th

    As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, few destinations are more central to the story than Williamsburg, Virginia. In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Edward Harris, President & CEO of Visit Williamsburg, to discuss leading a destination through a once-in-a-generation moment while preparing for what comes next. Edward shares his unconventional journey from global brands like Converse, Timberland, Under Armour, and eBay into destination leadership, revealing how lessons from the highly competitive consumer products world continue to shape his approach to tourism marketing today. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration, the courage required to test new ideas, the challenge of evolving a destination beyond a single identity, and why the future of Williamsburg may be just as exciting as its past. Whether you're a destination leader, marketer, or aspiring tourism professional, this conversation offers valuable lessons about innovation, storytelling, and creating momentum that lasts long after the spotlight fades. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    26 min
  2. Changing the Narrative: Peter Gamez on Leadership, Storytelling, and Oakland's Soul

    5d ago

    Changing the Narrative: Peter Gamez on Leadership, Storytelling, and Oakland's Soul

    What does it take to transform perceptions, inspire a community, and lead a destination through change? In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Peter Gamez, President & CEO of Visit Oakland, to explore the power of positive storytelling, servant leadership, and collaboration in destination marketing. Growing up in San Francisco as the son of Cuban immigrants, Peter developed a deep appreciation for education, community, and cultural identity. After spending more than two decades helping build Kimpton Hotels into one of the most influential boutique hospitality brands in the world, he made the leap into destination leadership. Peter shares how Oakland's people inspire his work, why tourism professionals need a seat at the economic development table, and how changing a destination's narrative can create lasting impact. Along the way, he reflects on lessons learned from hospitality pioneers, the importance of mentorship, and why curiosity remains one of the most valuable leadership traits. Whether you're a destination leader, hospitality professional, or simply passionate about creating stronger communities, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for leading with purpose. In this episode:  Why collaboration beats competition in tourism  How positive storytelling can transform perceptions  The leadership lessons Peter learned from hospitality visionaries  Tourism's role as an economic development strategy  The future of AI in destination marketing  What makes Oakland one of America's most soulful destinationsBusiness Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    29 min
  3. The Leap: How Kristen Reynolds Went from “Not Qualified” to Leading Chicago

    Jun 23

    The Leap: How Kristen Reynolds Went from “Not Qualified” to Leading Chicago

    What does it take to make career moves that everyone else thinks are impossible? In this episode of Learn Tourism's Business Class podcast, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago, to explore the mindset behind one of the tourism industry's most remarkable leadership journeys. From public relations and lobbying to leading destination organizations in New York and now one of the world's premier visitor destinations, Kristen shares how curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to take risks helped her overcome every "you can't do that" moment along the way. They discuss career growth, imposter syndrome, leadership, lifelong learning, family sacrifices, and why the future belongs to leaders who are willing to bet on themselves. Along the way, Kristen reveals the four principles that have guided her success: passion, purpose, performance, and positivity. Whether you're a student, emerging professional, or seasoned destination leader, this conversation is a masterclass in turning ambition into action. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    27 min
  4. Conversation with Don Welsh, Destinations International: The Evolution of Tourism

    Jun 16

    Conversation with Don Welsh, Destinations International: The Evolution of Tourism

    Join us in this insightful episode of the Business Class Podcast as we catch up with Don Welsh, three years after his last appearance. As the President and CEO of Destinations International, Don shares his in-depth perspectives on the evolving challenges and opportunities within the global tourism industry. From responsible travel and political acuity to the importance of accessibility and innovative leadership, Don's journey offers invaluable lessons for the next generation of tourism leaders. Tune in for a conversation exploring how the tourism landscape has transformed over the past few years and what lies ahead. Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the field's most experienced voices! Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    27 min
  5. Helping Small Businesses Thrive Through Tourism with Rachel Thompson from Visit Greater St. Cloud

    Jun 9

    Helping Small Businesses Thrive Through Tourism with Rachel Thompson from Visit Greater St. Cloud

    Rachel Thompson, Executive Director of Visit Greater St. Cloud, joins Business Class to discuss destination stewardship, supporting small businesses, tourism leadership, and why the future of tourism still depends on human connection. In this inspiring and surprisingly personal conversation, Rachel shares her journey from aspiring firefighter to hospitality leader, the importance of setting ambitious goals, and how tourism organizations can embrace technology without losing their humanity. Stephen and Rachel also explore storytelling, AI, Restaurant Week campaigns, team leadership, and the growing importance of authentic visitor experiences. Along the way, they discuss:  How tourism supports local businesses and community vitality  Why storytelling matters more than polished marketing  The evolving role of AI in tourism marketing  Building empowered teams instead of micromanaging  Learning, curiosity, and personal growth in leadership  Why “just start” may be the best advice for professionals and entrepreneurs This episode is a thoughtful reminder that tourism is ultimately about people, passion, and creating meaningful connections. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    23 min
  6. Barefoot Luxury & Bold Leadership with Andia Ravariere of Nevis

    Jun 2

    Barefoot Luxury & Bold Leadership with Andia Ravariere of Nevis

    What makes a destination unforgettable? According to Andia Ravariere, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority, it starts with authenticity, community, and the courage to truly understand a place's spirit. In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Andia for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about tourism leadership, sustainable destination development, Caribbean collaboration, and the emotional connection travelers build with destinations. Andia shares her unexpected journey into tourism after pursuing careers in education, fashion, and finance. She explains why tourism and education are deeply connected, how authentic local experiences shape meaningful travel, and why destinations must focus less on visitor volume and more on attracting travelers who align with community values. The conversation also explores:  Community-based tourism development  Sustainable livelihood creation through tourism  Regional collaboration across Caribbean destinations  Fear, leadership, and personal growth  Building destination brands rooted in authenticity  Why Nevis represents “barefoot luxury” and peace One of the most powerful moments comes when Andia describes tourism not simply as an economic engine, but as a vehicle for sustainable development and cultural preservation. If you work in tourism marketing, destination management, tourism training, hospitality leadership, or community development, this episode offers valuable insight into the future of intentional, people-centered tourism.  Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    29 min
  7. Front Door to Economic Development | Scott Larson, Visit Central Oregon

    May 26

    Front Door to Economic Development | Scott Larson, Visit Central Oregon

    Tourism is about far more than attracting visitors. It’s about building stronger communities, creating opportunity, protecting places, and empowering people to connect through meaningful experiences. In this episode of Business Class, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Scott Larson, Executive Director of Visit Central Oregon, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, destination stewardship, tourism economics, and personal growth. Scott shares his unexpected journey into tourism, why travel serves as the “front door” to economic development, and how tourism organizations are evolving from pure marketing agencies into community-focused leaders. The discussion explores everything from empowering teams and creating a culture where people are free to fail and learn, to navigating wildfire crisis communications, balancing regional stakeholder needs, and managing the realities of leadership as an introvert in a highly social industry. Along the way, Scott reflects on lessons from his grandparents, the value of time and memory-making, and why curiosity and trust are at the heart of effective tourism leadership. If you care about tourism marketing, destination management, tourism training, leadership development, or building stronger visitor economies, this conversation is packed with insight and authenticity. 🎧 Listen now and discover why tourism is one of the most human-centered industries in the world. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    23 min
  8. More Than Visitors: Tourism for Community Impact with Kireem Swinton

    May 19

    More Than Visitors: Tourism for Community Impact with Kireem Swinton

    What if tourism wasn’t just about attracting visitors—but about uplifting an entire community? In this episode, Stephen sits down with Kireem Swinton, President & CEO of Visit Baltimore, to explore a powerful shift happening in destination marketing. Drawing from his background as a championship athlete and team leader, Kireem shares how he’s building a culture rooted in trust, empowerment, and purpose. Together, they unpack what it really means to connect tourism to the lives of residents—from small business owners to frontline workers—and why DMOs must become storytellers not just to visitors, but to their own communities. Kireem also opens up about leadership, mentorship, the lessons he learned during his time as interim CEO, and the importance of taking care of yourself while leading others. This conversation is a reminder that tourism isn’t just an economic engine—it’s a human one. Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.  Support the show

    27 min
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Business Class features conversations shaping the future of destinations, workforce development, regenerative tourism, leadership, and visitor economies. Presented by Learn Tourism | learntourism.org

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