In this episode, we sit down with Marica Mackenroth Brewster, CEO of Von Mack Agency, a travel-centric strategic marketing agency to explore how travel brands can achieve breakthroughs by embracing more strategic, scalable approaches. Marica shares real talk on influencer trends, overhyped AI, and why tourism pros need to prioritize operations before chasing trends. We discuss the evolution of content and building genuine creator partnerships. Tune in for a sharp, honest look at what’s working, what’s not, and how to build a future-ready tourism brand.

In this episode of the Traveling Tribes Podcast, host Jeff Gayduk sits down with longtime friend and travel industry pioneer Jonathan Zuk—dubbed by Jeff as the most interesting man in travel. From a chance reconnection in Salt Lake City to a deep dive into Jonathan’s game-changing concept of guaranteed mini-tours, this conversation uncovers how he turned post-9/11 adversity into opportunity. Hear how Zuk built Amadeo from the ground up, challenged industry norms with daily multilingual departures, and tapped into last-minute booking trends to serve 100,000+ travelers a year. If you’re curious about the future of inbound tourism, this episode is a can’t-miss.

In this episode of Traveling Tribes, we sit down with Jake Steinman, founder of North American Journeys and the TravelAbility Summit, to explore a critical yet often overlooked segment of the travel industry—aging and accessible travel. Jake shares his journey from leading a media and events company focused on inbound tourism to becoming a champion for accessibility in travel.

We discuss how aging travelers—especially baby boomers—are seeking ways to continue exploring the world, even as mobility and cognitive needs change. Jake highlights innovative solutions that tour operators, DMOs, and destinations are implementing to accommodate travelers before they require full-time assistance. From “slow itineraries” and strategic accommodations to groundbreaking accessibility investments in destinations like Oregon and Florida, this episode sheds light on how the industry can expand its reach by embracing inclusive travel.

Plus, we dive into international accessibility efforts, including Portugal and Greece’s revolutionary beach ramps, and discuss why clear, detailed accessibility information is crucial for destinations and hotels. Whether you’re a travel professional, a group leader, or someone passionate about making travel more inclusive, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how the travel industry can evolve to meet the needs of the aging traveler!

In this episode, Jeff Gayduk sits down with Kai Boysan, CEO of Flix North America, to explore the evolution of long-distance bus travel and its integration into the broader transportation network. Kai shares his journey from Turkey to the U.S., offering unique perspectives on business practices across continents and discussing Flix’s innovative business model that has reshaped the bus travel industry.

Discover how Flix’s acquisition of Greyhound is transforming the way Americans travel, the challenges and opportunities in integrating bus travel with other transportation modes, and the push towards greener, more efficient mobility solutions. Whether you're a travel enthusiast or a professional in the tourism industry, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of group travel.

Tune in to the Traveling Tribes Podcast for an engaging discussion that bridges the gap between technology, travel, and the collective experience of journeying together.

In this episode of Traveling Tribes, host Jeff Gayduk welcomes Fred Ferguson, the new President and CEO of the American Bus Association (ABA). Fred, a seasoned industry professional with deep roots in tourism and public policy, shares his journey from his upbringing in the tourism-driven town of Park City, Utah, to his current leadership role at ABA. Together, Jeff and Fred discuss Fred's vision for the future of ABA, touching on topics like sustainable travel, economic growth through tourism, and the impact of motorcoach travel on local communities. They also dive into Fred's experience transitioning into his role and working alongside his predecessor, Pete Pantuso. Fred’s passion for expanding the bus and travel industry, combined with his insights on environmental responsibility and infrastructure development, make this a must-listen for travel professionals and tourism enthusiasts alike.

In this episode, we sit down with Shirley, a leading expert in group travel at Goway, to discuss the latest trends in the industry. We dive into the growing appeal of multi-generational family trips, special interest groups, and the increasingly adventurous destinations these travelers are seeking. From families jetting off to South Africa and Argentina to shared heritage trips to Ghana, Shirley reveals how travel is evolving beyond the traditional, creating richer, more meaningful experiences for groups of all sizes.

We also touch on the surge in niche travel, including pilgrimages and community-driven trips. Shirley shares the secret to Goway's success: a high rate of repeat customers who seek out new destinations with every trip. Whether it’s playing chess in Italy or connecting with ancestral roots, group travel is more diverse and adventurous than ever.

Finally, Shirley offers valuable travel advice for long-haul journeys, emphasizing the importance of slowing down, experiencing destinations in-depth, and taking time to acclimate.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation packed with travel tips, trends, and a behind-the-scenes look at the world of group travel with Goway.

Find out more about Goway and group travel opportunities at:

• https://www.goway.com/
• Call: 1-800-387-8850

Join Jeff Gayduk on this episode of the Traveling Tribes podcast, where he sits down with special guest Paula Reynolds, founder of Paula's Concierge Tours. With over 15 years in the industry, Paula shares her journey from California's wine country to the historic cities of the East Coast.

They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the tour industry, including the impact of COVID-19 on wine tours, the rising costs of travel, and the importance of trade shows for networking. Paula also reveals her excitement for America 250, sharing insights on how she's gearing up for this monumental event.

Whether you're in the travel industry or simply love a good story about adventure and history, this episode is packed with valuable insights and experiences. Tune in to learn more about the evolving world of travel and how Paula is leading the way with bespoke tours that cater to every traveler’s needs.

In this episode of the Traveling Tribes Podcast, host Jeff Gayduk sits down with Karen Trevino, President and CEO of North Little Rock Tourism. The conversation dives into Karen's illustrious career and her recent induction into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame.

Karen shares her journey, beginning at the Arkansas Tourism Department at the age of 19, and discusses the evolving landscape of tourism in Arkansas. She emphasizes the state's focus on outdoor recreation and the cooperative spirit that drives the tourism industry in Arkansas.

They explore the impact of technology on tourism, highlighting the shift from traditional print and broadcast media to digital platforms and the role of influencers. Karen touches on the innovative ways North Little Rock Tourism is leveraging AI to enhance their operations and stay ahead in the rapidly changing industry.

The episode also delves into the unique aspects of North Little Rock, such as the Burns Park Sports Complex and the various community-focused initiatives, like the "Setting the Table" culinary branding program. Karen explains how these initiatives help to build strong community ties and attract visitors.

Karen and Jeff discuss the blurring lines between leisure and group travel, with Karen providing insights into the integrated approach her team takes to manage and promote North Little Rock as a destination. She also highlights the importance of maintaining strong local media relationships and the evolving role of CVBs in community events.

The episode concludes with a discussion on Karen's involvement with Skål International, a professional organization for tourism leaders. As the President of Skål International USA, Karen talks about the benefits of the organization, including networking, business opportunities, and the focus on sustainability.

Tune in to learn more about Karen Trevino's journey, the innovative strategies of North Little Rock Tourism, and the future of tourism in Arkansas.