The Necessary Disruptor‪™‬ Stephanie M. Jones, MBA

In this episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast, host Stephanie M. Jones engages in a thought-provoking conversation with award-winning travel journalist Lebawit Lily Germa from Bloomberg News. Together, they tackle the complex landscape of sustainable tourism, challenging the narrative of tourism as a savior for communities in the Global South.
Drawing on her extensive experiences living in various regions, Lily explores the importance of equitable and inclusive solutions that empower local communities, debunking misconceptions and urging a shift away from the saviorism mentality.
00:00 Introduction to the Necessary Disruptor Podcast
00:58 Meet Our Guest: Award-Winning Travel Journalist Lebawit Lily Girma
02:43 Lily's Journey from Law to Travel Journalism
05:45 The Realities of Sustainable Tourism
10:47 Challenging the Savior Narrative in Tourism
16:28 Understanding Global South Communities
18:15 Lily's Mission and Personal Connection
29:40 The Future of Sustainable Tourism

Here's how to connect with Lebawit Lily Girma:
Instagram: @sunandstilettos and @tourismlens_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lebawit/
Website: https://tourismlens.com/

In this episode of the Necessary Disruptors show, host Stephanie speaks with Sherry Rupert, the CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA). They discuss the importance of preserving indigenous cultures through tourism, creating equitable opportunities, and sustaining local communities. Sherry shares her personal journey into advocating for indigenous tourism and highlights the role of AIANTA in promoting cultural heritage and fostering economic growth within tribal nations. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in the tourism industry, emphasizing the need for inclusion and responsible partnerships. This episode sheds light on the essential work being done to amplify underrepresented voices and redefine the narrative of American history through indigenous tourism.
00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptors Show: Exploring Indigenous Tourism
01:34 Sherry Rupert's Journey into Indigenous Tourism Advocacy
07:06 The Role of AIANTA in Championing Indigenous Tourism
14:02 Challenges and Opportunities in Indigenous Tourism
16:53 Partnerships and Representation in the Tourism Industry
32:35 Vision for the Future of Indigenous Tourism
37:13 Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Learn More

Learn more about Sherry and AIANTA
Website: www.aianta.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-rupert-0900021a9/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aianta_official

Pivoting with Purpose: A Journey Through Disruption in Travel
In this episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast, host Stephanie M. Jones engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Denella Ri'chard, a former cruise corporate executive turned talk show host. The discussion delves into Denella's remarkable career journey, her resilience in the face of the global pandemic's challenges, and her successful pivot from the corporate world to creating and hosting the nationally syndicated 'Traveling with Denella Ri'chard' show. The episode highlights themes of disruption, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the importance of leveraging one's network and creating new paths in industries like travel and tourism. Denella shares insights on the significance of featuring small Black businesses and destinations, the profound impact of her decisions to create opportunities where none existed, and the importance of divine guidance in her pursuit of success. Stephanie concludes the episode by emphasizing the power of disruption to inspire positive change and encourages listeners to be catalysts themselves.
00:53 Diving Deep with Denella Ri'chard: Pivoting with Purpose
03:38 From Baton Rouge to Global Stages: Denella's Journey
07:48 Breaking Barriers: Denella's Transition into the Travel Industry
11:31 Facing the Pandemic: A Necessary Pivot to Television
16:07 Amplifying Black Businesses and Communities Through Travel
19:47 Creating Your Own Path: Lessons in Disruption and Innovation
33:03 The Power of Faith and Vision in Achieving Success
Connect with Denella:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denella/
Website: https://www.travelingwithdenella.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelingwithdenella/

This episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast features Stacey Ritter, CEO of Visit Lauderdale, discussing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in destination stewardship. As a change agent, Ritter shares insights from her transition from politics to tourism, emphasizing her efforts to amplify diverse cultures and communities in Fort Lauderdale, driving both economic and cultural growth. The conversation covers strategic initiatives for multicultural marketing, fostering local partnerships, and counteracting negative messaging with inclusive branding. Ritter's leadership prioritizes authentic representation and community engagement, aiming to make Visit Lauderdale a welcoming destination for all. The episode also explores challenges faced by DMOs in addressing DEI and the critical role of bold, fearless leadership in shaping tourism strategies for a more inclusive future.
00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptor Podcast
00:07 Introducing Stacey Ritter: A Beacon of Inclusivity in Tourism
02:17 Stacey Ritter's Journey from Politics to Tourism Leadership
04:23 Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Visit Lauderdale
06:35 Strategies for Promoting Multicultural Tourism and Community Engagement
15:03 The Impact of Leadership and Team Dynamics on Destination Stewardship
28:28 Future Initiatives and the Importance of Inclusive Destination Marketing
33:44 Advice for Other Destinations on Prioritizing DEI in Tourism Strategies
42:52 Closing Thoughts and the Road Ahead

Website: www.visitlauderdale.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-ritter-10454917/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitlauderdale

During the second part of their conversation on 'The Necessary Disruptor Show,' Stephanie M. Jones delves deeper into the topic of workplace bullying, with a focus on the travel and tourism industry. Dr. Brandy shares her personal experiences with bullying and disappointment in the EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) efforts within the industry. She emphasizes that true priorities are revealed through actions, not words, and discusses the challenges of advocating for EDI in an environment resistant to acknowledging mistakes and making necessary changes. The conversation also covers the 'pay to play' nature of the industry, how it can lead to bullying, and the power of documentation and speaking up against injustice. Additionally, the hosts offer advice to women facing similar challenges and underscore the importance of protecting one's peace and self-worth. The episode concludes with a call to action for industry leaders to foster a culture of accountability and for companies to engage with EDI experts to develop anti-bullying policies and training. Dr. Brandy and Zoe Moore, as guests, share insights based on their expertise and experiences, aiming to inspire and empower listeners to address and overcome workplace bullying and discrimination.
00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptor Show: Tackling Workplace Bullying
00:22 The Impact of EDI in the Travel and Tourism Industry
01:04 Dr. Brandy's Personal Journey and Disappointment
02:29 The Challenge of Authenticity and Accountability in Organizations
10:03 Navigating the Pay-to-Play Dynamics of the Industry
21:39 Empowering Advice for Handling Workplace Bullying
29:19 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

In this Part 1 episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast, host Stephanie M. Jones, alongside guests Dr. Brandy Baldwin and Zoe Moore, engages in a critical conversation on workplace bullying within the travel and tourism industry, especially as it affects women of color. Drawing from personal experiences, the discussion delves into the prevalence of bullying, discrimination, and the systemic issues that enable such behaviors. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for industry leaders to adopt proactive measures in creating safer and more inclusive work environments. Through powerful testimonies and expert insights, the guests explore solutions and call to action for C-suite leaders to champion change and accountability.
00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptor Podcast
00:49 A Personal Journey: From Corporate America to Entrepreneurship
01:15 Spotlight on Workplace Bullying in Travel and Tourism
01:53 Sharing Bold Stories: Dr. Brandy Baldwin and Zoe Moore
02:23 Exploring Solutions and Proactive Steps Against Bullying
03:10 Introducing Our Guests: Dr. Brandy Baldwin and Zoe Moore
05:44 Dr. Brandy Baldwin's Entrepreneurial Journey and Impact
08:20 Zoe Moore's Bold Insights and EDI Advocacy
13:21 The Deep Dive: Workplace Bullying, PTSD, and Healing
24:11 Why Women of Color Face Unique Challenges
33:49 Leadership's Shortcomings and the Path Forward
35:59 Closing Thoughts and Teaser for Part Two
How to connect with Dr Brandi Baldwin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedoctorbrandi
Website: http://www.doctorbrandi.com
How to connect with Zoe Moore
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoemoore
Website: https://www.growwithzomo.com