TravelPulse Podcast

This week, I welcome Chris Dane, President and Managing Partner at Hickory Global Partners, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the deadly resort fire in the Dominican Republic, the FAA using AI for air traffic control, and more.  Later, Dane shares his perspective on how the relationship between travel advisors and airlines has evolved, along with offering advice for how advisors can best work with airlines. He also provides insights into building relationships, the importance of advocacy and more.  The discussion on advisors and air travel begins after the 16-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Brendan Vacations Your clients are dreaming of Ireland and Scotland. Brendan Vacations has been turning those dreams into unforgettable journeys for over 55 years, from private driver experiences and castle stays to self-drive adventures and intimate small group tours. And right now, advisors can earn an exclusive incentive on every booking. Don't miss it. Visit brendanvacations.com/traveladvisors to learn more. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Adam Duckworth, President and Founder of Travelmation, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a controversial proposal from the Trump Administration, Royal Caribbean being rejected by Mexico, and more.  Later, Duckworth shares his thoughts on the top trends and surprises he's seeing this summer travel season, as well as how much prices are impacting decisions. Duckworth also provides tips for travel advisors to improve their business and make it their best summer ever.  The discussion on summer travel begins after the 19-minute mark.   Today's episode sponsor: Tourism Cares Are you ready to use travel as a force for good? Tourism Cares is a global nonprofit helping the travel industry turn sustainability into real, measurable action for communities –  and your clients. With free resources and industry programs, Tourism Cares helps you take practical steps toward a more responsible travel business. Because doing good isn’t a trend –  it’s the future of travel. Visit TourismCares.org to learn more and become a member today. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome back Ryan Doncsecz, Groups Manager for VIP Vacations, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Spirit Airlines shutting down, the people trying to revive the airline, and more.  Later, Doncsecz and I dive into the best offers, rewards and incentives out there in honor of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month this May. Doncsecz shares the different ways he has seen the most support from travel suppliers during his career, as well as his top tips for fellow travel advisors looking to grow.  The discussion on celebrating travel advisors begins after the 16-minute mark.   Today's episode sponsor: Tourism Cares  Are you ready to use travel as a force for good? Tourism Cares is a global nonprofit helping the travel industry turn sustainability into real, measurable action for communities –  and your clients. With free resources and industry programs, Tourism Cares helps you take practical steps toward a more responsible travel business. Because doing good isn’t a trend –  it’s the future of travel. Visit TourismCares.org to learn more and become a member today. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the jet fuel crisis raising airfare costs, rumors of a potential United-American Airlines merger, Europe's new entry system, and more.  Later, I welcome Jessica Blotter, CEO and co-founder of Kind Traveler, to talk about how we can be better travelers. Blotter provides three key steps for all travelers to get started on being better travelers. She also describes why it's actually more affordable than you think to be an eco-friendly traveler and embrace sustainability, as well as how travel advisors can approach this topic with their clients.  The discussion on being better travelers begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways  When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Alvin Adriano, Director of Education for the American Society of Travel Advisors, joins to discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the ongoing issues with TSA long lines, airfare prices, and more.  Later, Adriano shares his thoughts on the importance of travel advisor education, how ASTA is making an impact, and top tips for advisors to grow their business.  The discussion on advisor education begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways  When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Christy Brown, owner of Little Luxuries Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including another chaotic weekend of travel disruptions, Royal Caribbean's new ban, and more.  Later, Brown shares what's trending this spring break travel season. From the top destinations to the rise of last-minute requests, Brown provides insights and tips for fellow travel advisors.  The social media discussion begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: AmaWaterways  When you recommend AmaWaterways to your clients, you are offering more than just a river cruise. You are giving them a chance to discover the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Your clients can explore villages, vineyards and historic cities with the freedom to follow the pace that feels right to them. Onboard their spacious ship, they are welcomed with heartfelt service, farm-to-ship cuisine and an array of amenities. Invite your clients to learn more at amawaterways.com Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Aanchal Gandhi, co-founder of Cozy Travel, and Ruthanne Terrero, director of luxury content for Northstar Travel Group, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including the El Paso, Texas airport closure fiasco, the US government's impact on travel, and more.  Later, Gandhi and Terro provide insights into the latest luxury travel trends, from how the definition of luxury travel has changed to the brands rising up and standing out today. They also share tips for fellow travel advisors to further grow their luxury travel sales.  Additionally, Terro shares more info about Northstar's new luxury travel newsletter, which you can sign up for here.  The discussion on luxury travel begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Antoine Wilson, owner of AD Elite Travels and CEO and Co-Founder of Melanated Safaris, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including winter storm Fern's impact, a big change for NYC's hotel scene, and more.  Later, Wilson and I dive into what changes the travel industry needs to make. He shares his thoughts on inclusiveness, representation, customer service being key, the advisor-supplier relationship, and more. Additionally, Wilson closes it out with his advice for travel industry peers on how to make 2026 their best year yet.  The discussion on travel industry changes begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome two guests: Scott Koepf, Chief Strategy Officer for Cruise Planners and Michael Consoli, a record-setting agency owner with Cruise Planners. Together, we discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including new proposals from the government, the growth of the travel advisor career path, and more.  Later, Koepf and Consoli share insights to what's trending in the cruise industry as Wave Season kicks off. From the different sectors of the industry on the rise to the unique deals offering great value this wave Season, Koepf and Consoli give their thoughts on all things cruise. Additionally, they offer their top advice to fellow travel advisors on growing their business in 2026.  The discussion on Wave Season begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Globus family of brands If your clients are asking about escorted touring, Globus and Cosmos should be at the top of your list. Together, they offer the widest touring portfolio in the industry — from affordable adventures with Cosmos to immersive, experience-rich journeys with Globus. Touring with Globus means everything is handled — hotels, transportation, sightseeing — all led by expert Tour Directors who manage logistics, unlock local insight, and bring destinations to life. That’s the difference between touring and FIT travel, where clients are left juggling the details. Add in strong commissions and dedicated advisor support, and Globus makes escorted touring easy to sell — and easy to trust. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another episode of the TravelPulse Podcast!  In the final episode of 2025, I welcome two special guests from the 40 Under 40 Class of 2025. Ryan Corrigan of Corrigan Luxury Travel Outfitters and Steven Gould, owner of Goulds Travel, co-founder of Luxera Travel, and creator of Travel Advisor Resource Center, join me to discuss the top travel stories from the year and some early thoughts for 2026.  Tune in to hear Corrigan and Gould share insights into how things like the government shutdown, plane crashes, mergers and more impacted their business in 2025. Additionally, the two provide advice to fellow travel advisors on growing their business in 2026.  Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 160 destinations worldwide, including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India, that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on-demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I welcome Joshua Harrell, Chief Revenue Officer at WorldVia Travel Network, to the show to discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a new record for TSA, a new campaign from the DOT, and more.  Later, Harrell provides insights on how travel advisors can boost their business. Hear his thoughts on what advisors should be doing on social media and why they shouldn't overlook e-mail. Harrell gives his top tips for how travel advisors can improve as we get ready for a new year.  The discussion on boosting your travel business begins after the 14-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Air France KLM Royal Dutch Airlines serves more than 180 destinations worldwide including over 50 in Europe, Africa and India that are a convenient one stop via our convenient Amsterdam hub from Portland, Oregon or 14 other U.S. gateways. Your customers can choose from World Business Class flat-beds, a dedicated Premium Comfort Class or Economy with on demand entertainment, in-seat power, and complimentary wine and Beer. Visit the Air France KLM Business Solutions trade portal at AFKL.biz to find everything you need and sign-up to get our news right to your inbox. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I'm live at CruiseWorld and the Travvy Awards. I first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Jamaica's recovery plan following Hurricane Melissa, the government reducing 10% of flights, and more.  Later, I welcome Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer for Windstar Cruises to discuss top trends in cruising, what makes Windstar Cruises stand out, and how they work with travel advisors. The interview with Janet Bava begins after the 8-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Windstar Cruises  This episode is brought to you by Windstar Cruises. Stay connected and inspired with Winds of Change, the official podcast created for travel advisors. Go behind the sails with Windstar’s leaders, crew, and destination experts as they share stories, insider insights, and updates to help you sell the small-ship experience with confidence. Discover what makes Windstar 180 degrees from ordinary and tune in on Spotify or YouTube to listen to Winds of Change. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I'm joined by Taylor Beckett, founder of Luxury Corporate Travel, to first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on travel, a new safest destinations list, and more.  Later, Beckett provides his tips for how to best navigate the points and miles game. From where to start and how airlines vary, Beckett shares details on how travel advisors can best maximize points and miles.   The discussion on points and miles begins after the 13-minute mark.  Today's episode sponsor: Europe Express  Planning remarkable European travel has never been easier with Europe Express. Think of us as your backstage pass: custom FIT travel, private groups, and now, our brand-new loyalty program—Passport to Perks—rewarding you for every booking. Whether it’s Italy’s coastal gems or luxury escapes with Elevated Journeys, we’re here to make sure your clients are impressed—and that you are too. Start building your next itinerary today at EuropeExpress.com. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.