Guest Host: Stephanie M. Jones
Airdate: 03/21/21
Stephanie Jones, founder of the National Blacks in Travel and Tourism Collaborative discusses the growth of Black travel and businesses, and initiatives to bring more diversity, equity and inclusion into all walks of the travel and tourism industry. Cleo Battle, Chief Operating Officer for Louisville Tourismexplains why DMOs need to do more than just succession planning to meet the growth within their organizations in areas of diversity, equity and inclusion. Simpleview’s Ryan George reflects back on the history of his company and how the changing face of American society is reflective within Simpleview. Steve Paganelli of Tripadvisor digs a bit deeper on findings from the MMGY Global study on Black travelers and what surprised him most, in addition to some upcoming studies that will put the magnifying glass on other sectors of travelers. Dave Bratton shares findings from Destination Analysts’ recent survey of American travelers and how the rush to get vaccinated is impacting travel and providing some level of “jealousy.”
Kurt Burkhart says that an adventure elopement in Colorado, especially if you have Sheena Shahangian helping to guide the process, is a creatively great option for couples! He loves the contest now underway for a free wedding at Castle Ladyhawke in Jackson County, North Carolina, and tells listeners to not miss the April 30 deadline; and, he gives a shout out to Discover Puerto Rico.