Business Class: The Tourism Industry's Podcast

Stephen Ekstrom

Business Class is a podcast for those looking to make a living in tourism and traveling well. We host smart conversations with interesting people who built satisfying careers in the tourism workplace. Presented by the academy at Learn Tourism | learntourism.org

  1. Leading with Trust and Vision: Daniel Kuperschmid on the Business Class Podcast

    09/22/2025

    Leading with Trust and Vision: Daniel Kuperschmid on the Business Class Podcast

    After three decades in the hotel world, Daniel Kuperschmid took the leap from corporate hospitality to destination leadership—becoming President & CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. In this episode of the Business Class podcast, Daniel shares how trust shapes his leadership style, why leaving Hyatt was his biggest career risk, and how he’s working to showcase San Diego beyond its sunshine and beaches. From rediscovering the city as a “tourist in his own town” to championing culture, culinary experiences, and diversity as competitive strengths, Daniel offers an inside look at what it takes to lead a major destination marketing organization today. Along the way, he reflects on lessons from his first hospitality jobs, the mentors who shaped his career, and the importance of saying “yes” to community engagement. If you’re passionate about tourism leadership, destination marketing, or simply love San Diego, this conversation delivers fresh insights into the evolving future of travel. 🎧 Listen now to hear Daniel Kuperschmid’s story and his vision for San Diego’s tourism future. 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

    22 min
  2. 09/09/2025

    Mastering the Tourism Terrain: Strategic Growth and Real Relationships with Adam Stoker and Stephen Ekstrom

    Adam Stoker, CEO of Brand Revolt and founder of Tourism IQ, joins Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and co-founder of Learn Tourism, for an open conversation about growth, innovation, and authenticity in the tourism industry. They reflect on their recent journeys, from time spent on a Michigan farm to speaking at industry conferences, and how these experiences shape their approach to leadership and learning. Adam and Stephen explore what it means to build intentional communities in tourism, sharing stories that highlight the value of asking better questions, fostering gratitude, and cultivating a culture of continuous development. They discuss the adventurous spirit required in entrepreneurship, the importance of genuine relationships, and how hosting a podcast can become an unexpected tool for professional growth. Throughout the episode, both leaders emphasize the need for authenticity, the balance between ego and altruism, and the power of curiosity to drive meaningful change. Whether you’re leading a destination, running a local business, or seeking to inspire your team, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom for anyone passionate about the evolving world of 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

    17 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Business Class is a podcast for those looking to make a living in tourism and traveling well. We host smart conversations with interesting people who built satisfying careers in the tourism workplace. Presented by the academy at Learn Tourism | learntourism.org