Humans of Travel

Hey everyone, it's Emma Weissmann, the host of Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff series from Humans of Travel. This episode features Tom Ho, luxury travel advisor at Protravel International and Global Travel Collection (GTC), who was recently cast in the newest season of "1st Look Presents: Extra Mile Club” on NBC. During this episode, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the audition, filming and production process of the reality television show, where GTC advisors compete to win the business of celebrity clients. Ho's episodes air on Dec. 13 (part one) and Dec. 20 (part two) following Saturday Night Live on NBC, and can be streamed via Peacock and YouTube. This episode is sponsored by Windstar Cruises. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 1st Look Presents: Extra Mile Club Protravel International Global Travel Collection Contact Ho on Instagram: @ThomsTravel ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, is one of the most well-known entrepreneurs of our time, pioneering ventures in industries including music, telecommunications, banking and, of course, travel and tourism. At present, there are more than 40 Virgin businesses worldwide in more than 30 countries, according to Virgin Group. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Branson shares travel stories from his early childhood, and details his first entrepreneurial journey as the teenage founder of Student Magazine, a publication created in protest of the Vietnam War. Listeners will also hear the business lessons Branson learned throughout his life, his advice to travel advisors starting their own businesses and how to be adaptive during times of change. Branson also reflects on the creation of his adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages, why he decided to enter the cruise industry and how his First Mates (travel advisors) can best sell the line. This episode is sponsored by Windstar Cruises. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Virgin Group Virgin Voyages About Student Magazine ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey everyone, it's Emma Weissmann, the host of Humans in the Hot Seat. During this episode, you'll hear from Malia Asfour, managing director of the Jordan Tourism Board in North America. Right now, Jordan is — as my friend Brinley Hineman at Travel Weekly says — a casualty of the war next door. The country is coming off of hosting the GX Summit a few weeks ago with G Adventures, and I wanted Malia to come on the podcast to explain what the state of Jordan tourism is right now, how travel advisors can learn more and how they can best educate their clients about the situation on the ground. This episode is sponsored by Europe Express. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Jordan Tourism Board Contact JTB: Omar@visitjordan.com, malia@visitjordan.com Tourism Cares' Meaningful Travel Map of Jordan ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stacey Ray is no ordinary travel advisor. After decades in the health care industry and the loss of her husband, she made a bold career pivot — launching a business designed for women like herself: curious, solo female travelers over 45 who want to see the world and make lasting friendships along the way. Thus, Sisterhood Travels was born. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Ray shares her inspiring career journey, the challenges she’s faced and how she turned those experiences into a thriving community of travelers. The conversation also touches on the importance of succession planning — her daughter, Sami, now serves as Sisterhood’s COO — as well as the nuances of group travel and Ray’s advice for new-to-industry advisors. This episode is sponsored by Europe Express. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Sisterhood Travels Email Ray: stacey.ray@sisterhoodtravels.com Ray's business phone: 910-742-5324 Ray's podcast: Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Kaitlyn Metzler of Travelmation, who is nominated in the Best Group Booking Effort, along with colleagues Kelly Kirk and Aurora Brick. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Travelmation Contact Metzler: kaitlynmetzler@travelmation.net Veterinary CE at Sea on Facebook ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Barbra Merwin, president of Travel Insured International, has more than 30 years of experience in insurance, beginning her career in the claims adjustment department at State Farm Insurance. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Merwin shares her personal journey — from her upbringing in Minnesota to leading a full company transformation and rebrand at TII. Listeners will hear Merwin’s views on how travel insurance gives travelers much-needed peace of mind — and her vision for how travel protection can elevate the advisor–client relationship. She also reflects on the lessons learned early in her career, and her views on mentorship. Plus, advisors will get the inside scoop on what exactly should be included in a travel insurance policy, and learn more about TI’s travel advisor certification program. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Travel Insured International Become a Partner With Travel Insured International ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Mallory Wheeler of Kingdom Luxe Travel, nominated in the Upward Bound, Rockstar Advisor category. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Contact Wheeler: mallory@kih-llc.com Wheeler on Facebook Kingdom Luxe Travel ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa McGovern has built her entire career within the travel industry. And earlier this year, she stepped into a new role as senior vice president of partner product, marketing and events at Global Travel Collection (GTC), the luxury arm of Internova Travel Group. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Vanessa shares how she got her start as an art auctioneer onboard cruise ships — a role that taught her the fundamentals of sales, customer service and persuasive storytelling. She also reflects on her experience co-founding Gifted Travel Network, which earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list and quickly became one of the fastest-growing private companies in Charlotte, North Carolina. Beyond her leadership roles, Vanessa is an educator, industry advocate and strategist. Now, in her position at GTC, she continues to shape the travel advisor community by strengthening partnerships, creating exclusive programs and redefining how luxury travel is curated and delivered. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Global Travel Collection Internova Travel Group Vanessa McGovern on LinkedIn ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Beci Mahnken of MEI-Travel, nominated in the Best Targeted Marketing Idea category. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Beci Mahnken on Instagram ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Katie Brown of Travelmation, nominated in the Best Use of Social Media category. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Travelmation Katie Brown on Instagram Katie's first Humans in the Hot Seat episode ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Smotrys, managing director and senior vice president, commercial for the Americas at HX Expeditions, has decades of experience in the cruise industry — but his first taste of travel came in the form of roadtrips up the California coast. And his first time on a cruise ship? During his senior prom, onboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Smotrys reflects on his career journey, his passion for expedition cruising and how a pandemic-era social media post led him to meet his now-wife, Emmy. He also speaks about the evolution of the 130-year-old HX Expeditions (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), how the company is redefining what it means to explore remote parts of the world and why travel advisors shouldn’t be afraid to sell expeditions — even to clients who don’t consider themselves “adventurous.” This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE HX Expeditions Smotrys on LinkedIn @emmyandstevestravelcravings on Instagram ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Jackie Waechter of Blissful Vacations, nominated in the Saving the Day category. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Blissful Vacations Email Jackie: jackie@blissfulhoneymoons.com ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Autumn Trussell-Murray of Abundant Travel - Dream Vacations, nominated in the Saving the Day category. This episode is sponsored by Travel Insured International. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Autumn on Instagram: @abundant.travel ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Jamie Rumpf of Love of the Magic Vacations, nominated in the Best Use of Social Media category. This episode is sponsored by Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Jamie Rumpf of Love of the Magic Vacations Email Jamie: jamie@lotmv.com Jamie on Instagram ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anne Marie Brown was born into one of Hawaii’s most iconic hospitality families — the Kelleys of Outrigger Hotels — and got her start in the industry with hands-on internships in nearly every department, from housekeeping and front desk to maintenance and the bell desk. Today, her path has taken her far beyond the Hawaiian Islands and the hotel world. Brown is now the co-founder of Alpenglow Travel, a luxury travel agency specializing in FIT, small group travel, events and corporate B2B planning. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Brown reflects on her family’s legacy and the lasting impact Outrigger Hotels & Resorts has had on Hawaii’s tourism landscape. She also shares valuable lessons from her background in hospitality, the story behind launching Alpenglow Travel and how her passion for poetry — including her viral piece, "Pretty," written for her daughter — continues to shape the way she sees the world. This episode is sponsored by Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Outrigger Hotels & Resorts Alpenglow Travel Contact: info@alpenglowtravel.com The viral poem "Pretty" ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Lisa McCarl of McCarl Travel, nominated in the Best Group Booking Effort category. This episode is sponsored by Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Lisa McCarl of McCarl Travel Email Lisa: lisa.mccarl@gmail.com Lisa on Facebook and LinkedIn Lisa's partnership with the National Health Association ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Sam Johnson of Prescription Travel, nominated in the Upward Bound, Rockstar Advisor Under 40 category. This episode is sponsored by Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Sam Johnson of Prescription Travel Sam's previous Humans in the Hot Seat Episode Call Sam: (406) 570-9612 ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Humans of Travel, Ken Shapiro, group vice president and editorial director for Northstar Travel Group (the parent company of TravelAge West), speaks with Stephanie Brooks, vice president of product and operations for the Globus family of brands. Brooks’ passion for travel stems from seeing the power of shared experiences and personal connections, and she shares her own journey from aspiring teacher to tourism executive, shaped by summers spent working at a remote fishing lodge in Canada and an early role at the Banff Visitor Center. She also reflects on her two decades with Globus, including roles in product development, operations and supplier contracting. Listeners will also hear Brooks’ insights into the misconceptions around escorted touring, as she highlights its modern-day flexibility, comfort and value. She also shares memorable travel experiences in Kenya, Vietnam and Newfoundland, and talks about an exciting new Globus offering in South Africa. This episode is sponsored by The Globus Family of Brands. IN THIS EPISODE 00:53 Meet Stephanie Brooks 01:35 Stephanie's Early Career and Influences 01:53 Transition to the Globus Family of Brands 08:59 Insights into Product Development and Operations 14:19 Challenges and Rewards in the Travel Industry 17:26 The Value of Escorted Touring 17:44 Stephanie's Favorite Destinations 25:57 Future Travel Plans and Final Thoughts RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Globus family of brands and www.globusjourneys.com ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans in the Hot Seat, a spinoff of the Humans of Travel, is currently running a 10-part mini-series on the 2025 TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards, which recognizes some of the most forward-thinking and impactful travel advisors in the U.S. Each year, the Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding travel advisors across five unique categories: Best Targeted Marketing Idea Best Group Booking Effort Upward Bound: Rockstar Advisor Under 40 Saving the Day Best Use of Social Media Listeners will hear directly from this year's finalists about what makes their work stand out, including the creativity, the dedication, and the stories behind their nomination. This episode features Jennifer Buck of Love Travel Collection, nominated in the Best Targeted Marketing Category. This episode is sponsored by The Globus Family of Brands. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Jennifer Buck, Love Travel Collection Love Travel Collection ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Matthew Upchurch, the chairman and CEO of Virtuoso discusses the transformative challenges that have shaped today’s travel advisor profession. Listeners will gain insight into how the industry navigated the rise of online travel agencies, the strategic decision behind Virtuoso’s rebranding and the far-reaching influence of mobile technology and social media. Upchurch also speaks about his mission to elevate the role of travel advisors, his evolving definition of luxury and why cross-generational collaboration is vital to the future of the industry. Listen to Part 1 here. This episode is sponsored by The Globus Family of Brands. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Virtuoso ABOUT YOUR HOST Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME. TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. ABOUT THE SHOW TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.