Forward Motion

Tourism Industry Association of Ontario

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!

  1. Bosnia and Herzegovina:  Culture, Community, and the Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ with Daniela Colic

    قبل يوم واحد

    Bosnia and Herzegovina: Culture, Community, and the Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ with Daniela Colic

    As Ontario prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion launches its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto. In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Daniela Colic, Chargé d’affaires, a.i. for Bosnia and Herzegovina in Canada, about the deep ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ontario. Daniela shares the story of Ontario’s Bosnian community, many of whom arrived in Canada during the 1990s and have since helped shape vibrant communities across Mississauga, Etobicoke, Burlington, Hamilton, and beyond. From restaurants and local businesses to cultural celebrations and soccer pitches, the Bosnian presence in Ontario is rich, active, and deeply connected to both home and host country. The conversation also explores Bosnia and Herzegovina as a tourism destination, from the East-meets-West character of Sarajevo and the historic bridge in Mostar to Olympic legacy ski resorts, lakes, waterfalls, food, film, and the hospitality the country is known for. Daniela highlights beloved Bosnian dishes including ćevapi, burek, and other traditional pies, while sharing why food, sport, nature, and people are central to the country’s tourism story. Looking ahead to FIFA World Cup 2026™, Daniela speaks about the pride surrounding Bosnia and Herzegovina’s national team and its deep diaspora connections, with many players born and raised abroad while maintaining strong ties to Bosnian culture, language, and identity. She also shares the excitement building in and around Toronto, including fan zones, community gatherings, and a colourful fan march toward the stadium, inviting Ontarians and Canadians to join in the festivities and experience Bosnian culture, hospitality, and passion for football firsthand. This episode is part of Forward Motion’s Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, exploring the stories, cultures, and global connections that will help make the tournament a memorable moment for Ontario. 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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  2. Destination Canada’s Playbook for Investment-Ready Tourism

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    Destination Canada’s Playbook for Investment-Ready Tourism

    In 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 Discussed The 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 development Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show: Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly 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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  3. Shore Lunch, Shared Lakes, Unequal Playing Field: Fixing Cross-Border Angling Policy

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    Shore Lunch, Shared Lakes, Unequal Playing Field: Fixing Cross-Border Angling Policy

    This 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 Monthly 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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  4. Ontario’s Lakes Are Changing. Here’s What It Means for Tourism

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    Ontario’s Lakes Are Changing. Here’s What It Means for Tourism

    Water 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 ever Resources 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 forward Take the Pledge | Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge Ingersoll Key Putt Discover unique Native Experiences in Ontario Sustainable Kingston Air Canada – Leave less Sustainability | VIA Rail Planning Resources for Responsible Events | Ottawa Tourism Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show: Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly 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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  5. Beyond the Matches: FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Ontario’s Opportunity

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    Beyond the Matches: FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Ontario’s Opportunity

    Andrew 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 Study Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show: Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly 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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  6. Ontario Budget 2026: Tourism’s Role in Ontario’s Economy

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    Ontario Budget 2026: Tourism’s Role in Ontario’s Economy

    This 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 Submission Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show: Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly 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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  7. Elevating Black Tourism Experiences in Ontario

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    Elevating Black Tourism Experiences in Ontario

    Andrew 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 Monthly 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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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!

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