The Travel Business Unpacked

エピソード

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  Lisa VanBuhler on Painting the Perfect Travel Masterpiece for Every Client 17.08.2026 46分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Lisa VanBuhler of XOOM Tours, a longtime Gifted Travel Network member who has built a thriving luxury travel business from an unconventional start in student and group travel.Lisa shares how her background in education led her to planning trips for students, eventually serving groups of up to 250 people, and how that experience became the foundation for her transition into luxury travel. At the heart of her approach is a simple but powerful belief: every client’s trip is a blank canvas. By listening closely, drawing on her deep destination knowledge, and working with trusted travel partners, Lisa creates highly personalized experiences designed around each individual traveler.Meredith and Lisa also explore how Lisa turned the uncertainty of the pandemic into an opportunity to bring people together through virtual destination experiences, why there is always a way to serve a client regardless of their budget, and how thoughtfully curated travel can become something much more meaningful than simply a vacation. Her story is a reminder that the skills you already have may be more transferable than you realize, and that passion, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning can become powerful assets in building a travel business.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-Chap7🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🖥️ XOOM Tours Website: https://xoomtours.com/👤 Lisa's LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/zyje3472
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  Keely Culpepper on Creating Experiences That Keep Clients Coming Back 10.08.2026 44分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, Meredith Calloway is joined by Keely Culpepper, founder of Blue Venture Travel, to talk about building a travel business around exceptional client experiences and lasting relationships.Keely shares her journey from the corporate world to travel entrepreneurship and how focusing on thoughtful, personalized service has helped her build a business driven by repeat clients and referrals. She talks about the importance of creating an experience that goes beyond simply planning a great trip, with the goal of leaving clients excited about where they’ll go next. Meredith and Keely also discuss the role of attention to detail, strong systems, industry relationships, and the patience it takes to build momentum in a travel business.Throughout the conversation, Keely offers an honest look at what it takes to build trust with clients, create memorable experiences, and turn those relationships into a sustainable business.-📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx🖥️ Blue Venture Travel: https://blueventuretravel.com/
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  The Power of Mentorship in Building a Travel Business with Meghann Bjarnesen 03.08.2026 51分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway welcomes back Meghann Bjarnesen, co-owner of Besté Travel Design and Lead Mentor & Programs Manager for Gifted Travel Network's Travel Business University.After first joining the podcast as a successful travel business owner, Meghann returns with a new perspective as she steps into a leadership role focused on mentoring travel advisors. Together, Meredith and Meghann explore why mentorship is one of the most valuable investments advisors can make, and why building a successful travel business requires far more than learning how to book travel. They discuss the importance of business education, branding, community, and accountability, along with the common challenges advisors face as they grow their businesses.The conversation also touches on GTN's new Ascend program, designed to help experienced advisors strengthen the business side of their agencies and prepare for long-term success. Whether you're just getting started or looking to elevate an established business, this episode offers practical insights into the mindset, guidance, and support that help travel advisors build thriving, sustainable businesses.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Meghann's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megbmin🖥️ Besté Travel Design: https://www.bestetravel.com/home
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  Kay Fahlberg on Finding Your Niche Without Boxing Yourself In 27.07.2026 50分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked, Meredith Calloway sits down with Kay Fahlberg, owner of Ippo Travel, to discuss how finding your niche doesn't have to mean limiting your business. Drawing on her Japanese heritage and passion for travel, Kay shares how she built a reputation as a Japan expert while creating a brand that allows her to serve clients traveling all over the world.Along the way, Meredith offers valuable coaching on branding, client attraction, and the importance of building a business around your unique perspective rather than a single destination. They also discuss why Japan is one of today's most sought-after destinations, how a travel advisor can elevate the experience, and the cultural insights that make every itinerary more meaningful.They wrap the episode up with an inspiring discussion about mindset, boundaries, and the role emotional fitness plays in business growth. Kay shares how learning to attract the right clients, and having the confidence to say no to the wrong ones, helped transform both her business and her confidence as an entrepreneur.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Kay's LinkedIn:   / kayfahlberg  🖥️ Ippo Travel Website: https://www.ippotravel.com/
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  Carol McKee on Building Successful Travel Groups Without the Headaches 20.07.2026 56分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked, Meredith Calloway welcomes back Carol McKee of McKee Travel for a practical conversation about one of the biggest growth opportunities for travel advisors: group travel. From destination weddings and milestone celebrations to hosted tours and educational conferences, Carol shares the lessons she's learned after planning groups of all shapes and sizes, and why success starts long before you ever collect the first deposit.Together, Meredith and Carol discuss how to identify the right type of group for your network, why understanding the group leader is just as important as understanding the destination, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can derail even the best ideas. They also explore destination wedding logistics, choosing the right suppliers, setting clear expectations with clients, understanding financial responsibilities, and why advisors don't need to travel with every group they organize.Throughout the conversation, Carol emphasizes the importance of preparation: researching suppliers before opportunities arise, learning the policies that matter, and using slower seasons to build the knowledge that leads to future bookings. She also shares why not every group inquiry will become a booking—and how every experience, successful or not, becomes an opportunity to grow. Whether you're planning your first group or looking to expand an established business, this episode offers practical advice that will help you approach group travel with greater confidence and a stronger strategy.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Carol's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckeetravel🖥️ Carol's Website: https://www.mckeetravel.com/
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  Katina Athanasiou on Calibrating Your Life, Career, and Leadership 13.07.2026 49分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway welcomes Katina Athanasiou, Senior Vice President of Sales and Services at Celebrity Cruises, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, authenticity, and building a career that truly fulfills you.Katina's journey to executive leadership has been shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to continually evolve. Rather than chasing the idea of perfect work-life balance, she shares why she believes in "calibration" instead, adjusting to life's changing seasons while staying grounded in what matters most. Together, Meredith and Katina explore what it means to lead with empathy, embrace your authentic self, and recognize that every challenge is an opportunity for growth.They also discuss how adapting your leadership style to the people around you creates stronger relationships, why understanding how others communicate can transform the way you lead, and how finding work that genuinely excites you changes everything. Whether you're leading a team, serving clients, or building your own travel business, this conversation offers valuable perspective on creating meaningful success without sacrificing yourself along the way.If you've ever wondered how to become a stronger leader while staying true to who you are, this episode will leave you with a fresh perspective on leadership, personal growth, and building a business and life you genuinely love.-📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Katina's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katinaathanasiou
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  How Angie Corry Discovered Her Niche One Adventure at a Time 06.07.2026 48分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Angie Corry, founder of Adventurously Yours Travel Design.After moving to the Netherlands for her husband's job, Angie found herself navigating an unexpected season of life. What started as planning weekend adventures for her own family soon turned into organizing trips for fellow expats, eventually revealing a passion for creating meaningful travel experiences for women. Today, as a Travel MBA alum, Angie has built a business that reflects both her love of exploration and her belief that travel has the power to build confidence, connection, and community.In this conversation, Angie shares how living abroad changed her perspective on travel, why she initially resisted becoming a travel advisor, and how a single women's trip helped her discover the niche that would become the foundation of her business. She also discusses the importance of listening to what comes naturally, creating experiences that truly serve your ideal clients, and building a business that aligns with the life you want to live.Whether you're still searching for your niche or looking for the confidence to lean into your own story, Angie's journey is a reminder that your greatest business opportunity may already be hiding in your own experiences. Sometimes the path to building a successful travel business begins with simply saying yes to your next adventure.-📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Angie's Website: https://adventurouslyyours.com/🔗 Angie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiecorrycsp/
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  From Teacher to Entrepreneur: Lessons in Building a Luxury Travel Business with Ashley Carlson 29.06.2026 48分

  Making the leap into entrepreneurship is never easy, especially when you're leaving behind a career you've known for years. In this episode, Meredith welcomes Travel MBA graduate Ashley Carlson, founder of Carlson Travel Co., to share how she transitioned from elementary school teacher and stay-at-home mom to luxury travel entrepreneur.Ashley reflects on the mindset shifts, branding decisions, and uncomfortable moments that helped shape her business, from investing in a professional brand and website to speaking at local events and attracting clients beyond her personal network. She also shares how the skills she developed in the classroom continue to influence the way she serves her clients today.If you've ever wondered whether you're ready to take the leap, this conversation is a reminder that confidence isn't something you wait for. It's something you build by taking action.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx-🔗 Ashley's Website: https://carlsontravelco.com/🔗 Ashley's LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/mtpdjk9c
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  From Day Trader to Luxury Travel Entrepreneur: John Rees on Building a Business He Loves 22.06.2026 44分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by returning guest John Rees, founder of J5 Luxury Travel Tailors.After leaving a successful career in day trading, John built a thriving luxury travel business centered around his passion for travel and a commitment to exceptional client experiences. In this conversation, he reflects on how his role has changed as the business has grown, from handling nearly every aspect himself to building a talented team he trusts to deliver at a high level. He shares lessons learned about leadership, delegation, and creating a company culture that allows both the business and the people within it to thrive.They also discuss the realities of scaling a travel business, the importance of focusing on your strengths, and why helping others grow has become one of the most rewarding parts of John's entrepreneurial journey.John's story offers valuable insight for advisors looking to build a business that is not only successful, but also sustainable, fulfilling, and aligned with the life they want to create.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/GTN-freechapter🎓 Travel Business University: https://tinyurl.com/yz462bhx🔗 John's Website: https://www.j5travel.com/🔗 John's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/j5travel
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  Nicole Shipper on Scaling a Travel Business Without Losing the Personal Touch 15.06.2026 44分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway welcomes back Nicole Shipper, founder of TBN Travel Curators, for her second appearance on the podcast.Since her last conversation with Meredith, Nicole has navigated a major rebrand, continued growing her team, and faced the new challenges that come with scaling a business beyond herself. Together, they discuss what it really takes to grow a travel business while maintaining the personal service clients expect.They also explore:• The decision to rebrand and how to know when your business identity no longer reflects your vision• The opportunities and challenges of building a team of independent contractors• Creating systems and processes that maintain a consistent client experience• How hiring a customer care manager helped Nicole focus on her strengths• Transitioning to new technology and workflows to support business growth• Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and a business in a season of rapid changeNicole’s story offers an honest look at the evolving challenges that come with success and the leadership shifts required at each stage of growth.Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8fNicole's Website: https://tbntravelcurators.com/Nicole's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-shipper-a6a8b619/TBU Live Tickets: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventPromocode: PODCAST
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  The Future of Travel Advisor Technology, Featuring David Shull of Tern 08.06.2026 49分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, guest host Sandy Saburn sits down with David Shull, co-founder and CEO of Tern.When David first discovered the travel advisor industry, he saw a profession filled with talented entrepreneurs who were navigating their businesses with disconnected systems and outdated technology. Rather than assuming he knew the solution, he spent years listening to advisors, learning how they worked, and building technology around their real-world needs.In this conversation, Sandy and David discuss the evolution of Tern, the challenges advisors face when running a travel business, and how technology can better support their growth. They also explore what happens when software is built around the realities of an advisor's day-to-day work instead of forcing advisors to adapt to the technology.David also shares his thoughts on the future of advisor technology, the growing role of artificial intelligence in the travel industry, and why he believes the most successful advisors will be the ones who learn to pair technology with human expertise.Whether you're curious about the future of advisor technology, wondering how AI may shape the industry, or looking for ways to create a more efficient business, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what's ahead for travel advisors.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8f🔗 Tern Website: https://www.tern.travel/🔗 David's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dsshull/🔗TBU Live Tickets: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventPromocode: PODCAST
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  Laura Young on Reinventing Her Career and Finding Freedom Through Travel 01.06.2026 41分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Laura Young, founder of Laura Young Travel and a 2026 Gifted Travel Network Momentum Award winner.After more than 20 years in financial services, Laura made the decision to leave behind a stable corporate career and build a travel business that aligned more closely with the life she wanted. In this conversation, she shares what it looked like to start over while raising three kids, working full time, and learning an entirely new industry from the ground up.Laura opens up about the uncomfortable parts of entrepreneurship, including learning patience, defining her ideal client, and figuring out how to trust herself through the transition. She also reflects on how relationships, referrals, and clarity around who she wanted to serve became the foundation for her rapid growth.They also explore:• Building a travel business while balancing full-time corporate work and motherhood• Why defining an ideal client changes everything in luxury travel• The mindset shift from employee to entrepreneur• Creating a relationship-driven business instead of relying heavily on social media• How referrals became the biggest driver of growth in Laura’s second year• The connection between entrepreneurial success, freedom, and fulfillment.Laura’s story is an honest look at what it takes to reinvent yourself professionally and personally. For advisors navigating growth, career transitions, or the desire for more freedom, this episode offers both practical insight and meaningful perspective.Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8fLaura's Website: https://laurayoungtravel.com/Laura's LinkedIn:   / laura-young-travel  TBU Live Tickets: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventPromocode: PODCAST
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  Why Advocacy Matters for Every Travel Advisor, Featuring Jessica Klement 25.05.2026 48分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Jessica Klement, Vice President of Advocacy for American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA).Jessica shares how she built a career in advocacy, starting on Capitol Hill before eventually finding her place in the travel industry. Together, Meredith and Jessica unpack the work happening behind the scenes to protect travel advisors at the state and federal levels, work that many advisors benefit from every day without even realizing it.From proposed legislation that could directly impact advisor businesses to the importance of grassroots involvement, this conversation offers a deeper look at why advocacy matters for every travel advisor, not just industry leaders. Jessica also shares how ASTA works alongside advisors across the country to ensure lawmakers understand the real impact their decisions have on travel businesses and their clients.This episode is a reminder that advocacy is not separate from the day-to-day work of being a travel advisor. It plays a direct role in protecting the future of the industry and the businesses advisors work so hard to build.Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8fASTA Website: https://asta.org/Jessica Klement's LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/JessicaKlementLITBU Live Tickets: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/e...Promocode: PODCAST
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  Kim Weas on Why the Right Advisor Community Matters 18.05.2026 54分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Kim Weas, founder of MoonTide Travel. Kim shares her journey from accidental travel advisor to established business owner, and the pivotal moment she realized her business needed something different to keep growing.From navigating a host agency transition to redefining her vision for the future, Kim offers an honest look at what business evolution really looks like for travel advisors.They also explore:• When it’s time to rethink your host agency• Why the right advisor community makes a difference• Moving from booking trips to building a true business• Mindset shifts around growth, fees, and confidence• What established advisors should consider before making a changeA thoughtful conversation for advisors navigating growth and change.Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8fKim's website: https://www.moontidetravel.com/TBU Live Tickets: giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventPromocode: PODCAST
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  How Nancy Gany Built a Referral-Driven Luxury Travel Business 11.05.2026 47分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Nancy Gany, founder of Inspired Steps Luxury Travel and a Travel MBA alum who has quickly built a thriving, referral-driven luxury travel business based in relationships, trust, and elevated service.With a background in consulting and project management, Nancy shares how she transitioned into the travel industry during the uncertainty of the pandemic and discovered that many of the same skills that made her successful in corporate life, listening well, building relationships, and solving problems, became the foundation of her success as a luxury travel advisor.Meredith and Nancy unpack what luxury travel advising actually looks like behind the scenes, from cultivating hotel partnerships and creating personalized VIP experiences to confidently narrowing your niche and knowing when to say no. Nancy also shares how focusing on Europe and luxury hotel bookings helped her create a business that aligns with both her expertise and the lifestyle she wants to build.The conversation also explores the value of preferred partner programs, the difference between being a “booker” and a true advisor, and why strong client relationships continue to fuel Nancy’s business almost entirely through referrals.Whether you’re new to the industry or refining your own luxury niche, Nancy’s story is a thoughtful look at how clarity, professionalism, and genuine care can create a sustainable and fulfilling travel business.Nancy's website: https://inspiredstepsluxurytravel.com/Sign up for TBU LIVE with promocode PODCAST for $20 off your ticket: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/event
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  Celebrating Travel Advisor Appreciation Week with Shannon Cunningham 06.05.2026 32分

  In this special bonus episode of The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Shannon Cunningham, Director of Engagement at Gifted Travel Network, to celebrate Global Travel Advisor Day and GTN’s Travel Advisor Appreciation Week.Together, Meredith and Shannon shine a light on the heart, resilience, and behind-the-scenes work that make travel advisors so valuable. They reflect on the entrepreneurial journey advisors navigate every day, the importance of celebrating both small and big wins, and the role community plays in making this career feel less isolating and more fulfilling.This episode is a heartfelt reminder that travel advisors are not just planning trips. They are building businesses, advocating for clients, creating meaningful experiences, and helping move the travel industry forward. Whether you’re a new advisor or a seasoned business owner, this conversation is a celebration of you and the work you do.📖 Free Chapter: https://tinyurl.com/4pbvtr8fTBU Live Tickets: giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventPromocode: PODCAST
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  Carol McKee on Closing the Hidden Gaps in Your Travel Business 04.05.2026 49分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Carol McKee of McKee Travel, a Travel MBA alum, GTN mentor, and seven-figure travel entrepreneur. Carol shares how her background as a CFO and business owner shaped the way she approached building a travel business, and why so many advisors miss the mark when they focus only on trip planning instead of the business behind it. From understanding your numbers to creating systems that support growth, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build something sustainable.They also explore:• Why many advisors stay stuck in the break-even phase• How to think about revenue, expenses, and real profitability• The impact of sales yield and where money is often left on the table• Why systems and processes matter more than most realize• What to consider before scaling or building a teamCarol’s perspective is both practical and direct, offering a clear reminder that success in this industry is not just about selling travel, it’s about running a business.If you’ve been busy but not seeing the financial results you expected, this episode will challenge how you think about growth and help you refocus on what actually moves your business forward. Sign up for TBU LIVE with promocode PODCAST for $20 off your ticket: https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/eventCarol's website: http://mckeetravel.com/
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  Building a Travel Business That Supports Your Life, Featuring Sarah Key 27.04.2026 41分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked, Meredith Calloway is joined by Sarah Key, founder of The Keys to Travel.Sarah shares her journey from corporate life to building a travel business that supports both her professional growth and personal life. From taking the leap into entrepreneurship to switching host agencies and navigating motherhood with two young kids, she offers an honest look at what it really takes to grow a business that evolves with you.They also talk about building a brand that attracts the right clients, the role of community in long-term success, and how Sarah is creating more meaningful experiences through long-term travel planning for her clients.If you’ve ever wondered how to create more flexibility, grow with intention, and build a business that fits your life, this episode will give you a grounded and practical perspective.The Keys to Travel website: https://thekeystotravel.com/Sarah's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahrosekey
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  From Insurance to Gifting, Building a More Intentional Travel Business, with Roseann Coyle 20.04.2026 46分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Roseann Coyle of Sun Drenched Travel. A travel advisor, mentor inside Gifted Travel Network, and former insurance industry leader, Roseann brings a perspective most advisors never get access to, but absolutely need.In this conversation, she breaks down why travel insurance should never be an afterthought. From common misconceptions to the risks of supplier plans versus third-party coverage, Roseann shares how a clearer understanding of insurance helps advisors better serve their clients while also creating an additional stream of revenue.Beyond insurance, this episode explores how thoughtful touches like gifting can strengthen client relationships, what it really looks like to scale before you feel ready, and why many advisors get stuck when they don’t know their next step.This episode is a reminder that building a successful travel business is not just about booking trips. It is about protecting your clients, creating meaningful experiences, and making decisions that support long-term growth.🔗Roseann's website: https://www.sundrenchedtravel.com/
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  From Entrepreneurial Business Owner to Luxury Travel Specialist, with Robin Cline 13.04.2026 47分

  This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Robin Cline, founder of Cline & Co Travel Consulting. A former entrepreneur turned luxury travel advisor, Robin has built a highly successful, referral-driven business rooted in clarity, service, and strong client relationships.Robin shares what it really looked like to launch her travel business just before the world shut down in 2020, and how she used that unexpected time to build a strong foundation. With a background working alongside high-net-worth clients in previous industries, she brought a unique perspective into travel, one that shaped her approach to service, branding, and client experience from the very beginning.Throughout the conversation, Robin offers a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to move from “taking any client” to building a business that aligns with your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. She also breaks down how she scaled intentionally by hiring early, refining her workflows, and focusing on relationships that naturally lead to repeat business and referrals.They also explore:Transitioning into travel during an uncertain timeThe importance of understanding your ideal client early onWhy saying yes to everything can slow your growthBuilding a brand that creates trust and confidenceHiring before you feel “ready” and why it mattersCreating a client experience that drives referrals and loyaltyWhether you’re just starting out or refining an established business, Robin Cline’s story is a thoughtful reminder that success in travel doesn’t come from doing everything, it comes from doing the right things well.Robin's website: https://clineandcotravel.com/