Guest Host: Gretchen Hall
Airdate: 07/25/01
Gretchen Hall, President & CEO of the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau and, the newly installed Chair for Destinations International, discusses what’s ahead during her term leading this global trade association, and why she believes women bring something different to the table as leaders. Mark Shore, CEO of Shoreline Insights Group, LLC, explains the dilemma DMOs find themselves in when their state enact laws that potentially cripple tourism, and highlights the adverse impacts felt in North Carolina after the “Bathroom Bill” became law. Esra Calvert at Zartico does a deep-dive on how festivals are leading the “events recovery.” Simpleview’s Ryan George, fresh off of Destination International’s annual conference, shares key takeaways from industry leaders after a yearlong hiatus as an organization. Dave Bratton at Destination Analysts sees a softening of traveler enthusiasm as states, counties and towns continue to see increases with the Delta variant, and gives his “prediction” for what he sees ahead.
Kurt Burkhart shares what one “source” claims as the Top Ten Wildest Cities in America, gives details on how to enter the VRBO Reunion Contest, and invites Mother Road enthusiasts to visit Miami, Oklahoma on July 30 & 31 for the Route 66 Heritage Festival.