Forward Motion

Епізоди

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  Beyond the Tracks: Alto, Tourism and Economic Growth 20.08.2026 1год 13хв

  In this episode of Forward Motion, host Andrew Siegwart sits down with Peter Paz, Senior Director of Public and Government Relations at Alto, to explore what Canada’s first high-speed rail project could mean for Ontario’s tourism industry, communities and economy.Alto is developing a high-speed rail corridor connecting Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Laval, Montréal, Trois-Rivières and Québec City, with trains expected to reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. But as Peter explains, the opportunity extends far beyond faster travel. Better connectivity could create new possibilities for leisure and business travel, strengthen access to destinations, unlock investment and reshape the way visitors move throughout Ontario and Québec.Andrew and Peter dive into Alto’s research on the potential tourism impact of high-speed rail and why tourism needs to be considered from the beginning. Peter shares that Alto’s research found the tourism impact could vary dramatically depending on the level of coordination, from approximately $177 million in additional GDP and 2,000 tourism jobs under a low-coordination scenario to approximately $3.9 billion in additional GDP and 43,000 tourism jobs through a highly coordinated approach. The takeaway: realizing the full opportunity will require collaboration between Alto, governments, municipalities, destination organizations and tourism businesses.The conversation also looks at what communities can do now to prepare, from connecting local and regional transportation systems to thinking about visitor experience, transportation access and destination development. Peter discusses the importance of considering everything from local transit connections and station access to wayfinding, bike parking and the overall passenger experience.Peter also shares Alto’s approach to consultation, Indigenous engagement and community benefits, including workforce development, social procurement and opportunities to leave lasting benefits in communities along the corridor. He explains how public input is already shaping the project, including the consideration of Kingston as a potential station and efforts to protect the Frontenac Arch Biosphere.Looking ahead, Andrew and Peter discuss what it will take to turn high-speed rail into a broader tourism and economic opportunity, and why collaboration needs to begin long before the first train leaves the station.About Peter PazPeter is Senior Director of Public and Government Relations at Alto, the Crown corporation leading the development of Canada’s high-speed rail project. With more than 15 years of experience in the transportation sector, including leadership roles at Metrolinx, he specializes in building partnerships with governments and communities. At Alto, Peter oversees the development and implementation of Alto’s Community Benefits Plan and engagement program, ensuring the project creates inclusive opportunities and lasting benefits along the Corridor. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  More Than a Race: How the Honda Indy is Powering Markham’s Tourism Future 06.08.2026 59хв

  In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart is joined by Vinay Sharda, President of Destination Markham Corporation; Councillor Andrew Keyes, City of Markham Councillor and Chair of Destination Markham; and Jeff Atkinson of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, President of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham.Together, they explore why moving the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy from Toronto’s Exhibition Place to Markham represents much more than a venue change. It offers a blueprint for destination development.The conversation examines how Markham has deliberately built its tourism identity around its culinary depth, cultural institutions and year-round festivals, then leveraged that foundation to attract a world-class motorsport event.The guests discuss why Markham’s technology-driven economy, diverse food scene and established events such as Jazzlicious made the city a natural fit. They also look at how the municipal accommodation tax is supporting stronger tourism marketing, infrastructure and performance measurement.Jeff shares the analytics behind the move, details about the new 12-turn street circuit and how the Indy has evolved into a family-first festival with significant economic potential.If you want to experience the inaugural Indy in Markham, head to the official Ontario Honda Dealers Indy site: https://hondaindy.com and explore what’s happening around the race at Destination Markham: https://visitmarkham.ca.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Keeping Tourism Human in the Age of AI, with Mike Jacobs 23.07.2026 1год 4хв

  Artificial intelligence is transforming tourism, but it is only one part of a much larger technological shift.In this episode of Forward Motion, Andrew Siegwart is joined by Mike Jacobs, founder of The New Business and Whereabouts, to explore how emerging technology is changing the way tourism businesses operate, market themselves and connect with visitors.The conversation moves beyond the hype surrounding AI to examine what these tools can realistically do for tourism organizations today. Andrew and Mike discuss how businesses can use AI to improve internal systems, analyze customer information, rapidly test ideas and make their products and experiences easier to discover.They also explore how AI could reshape the entire visitor journey, from the first moment of inspiration to trip planning, booking and the experience itself. As technology becomes increasingly capable of creating highly personalized recommendations, tourism businesses will need to ensure their online information is accurate, organized and accessible to the platforms visitors are using.While AI can reduce friction and improve efficiency, Mike emphasizes that tourism’s greatest competitive advantage remains distinctly human. Creativity, authenticity, personal interaction and genuine hospitality will become even more important as technology becomes embedded in everyday life.The episode also examines customer data privacy, the risks of ignoring emerging technology and how businesses can experiment with new tools without feeling pressured to adopt everything at once.Andrew and Mike close the conversation by discussing Whereabouts, a platform designed specifically for tourism organizations. By bringing business listings, events, communications, surveys and industry data into one connected system, Whereabouts aims to reduce duplication, strengthen collaboration and help Ontario’s tourism industry make better use of its information and technology.The message for tourism leaders is clear: businesses cannot afford to ignore AI, but the goal should not be to replace the human side of hospitality. It should be to use technology to create more time and space for it.About Mike JacobsMike Jacobs is the founder of The New Business and Whereabouts. He works at the intersection of tourism strategy and technology, helping destinations and tourism organizations use emerging tools to improve operations, collaboration, marketing and the visitor experience.Learn moreExplore Whereabouts and The New Business.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Salsa, Strategy, & Community: Growing a Multi‑City Festival Brand 09.07.2026 48хв

  Our hearts are with everyone affected by the tragic events at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival.We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the injuries sustained, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those affected. Our thoughts are also with everyone in attendance, the festival organizers, volunteers, performers, vendors, and the first responders who responded so quickly and professionally.Festivals are places where communities come together to celebrate culture, friendship and connection. This tragedy is felt across Ontario's tourism and events community.On behalf of Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, we stand with the Salsa on St. Clair team and the entire community during this incredibly difficult time.The episode explores the evolution of Salsa on St. Clair into a multi‑destination tourism platform. Host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Giuseppe Di Tacchio of the Canadian Salsa Festivals Project about the festival’s origins, strategy, and expansion. Giuseppe recounts how the event began in 2005 to help St. Clair retailers recover from TTC construction, quickly growing from a half‑day community initiative into a full weekend and an anchor cultural brand. He explains the move to a not‑for‑profit structure to better align sponsorships and partners, and outlines expansion to Blue Mountain, Mont‑Tremblant and a new Niagara Falls edition designed to boost shoulder‑season visitation.Andrew and Giuseppe highlight success factors—authentic Hispanic programming, strong media partnerships for promotion, careful timing, and protecting the core free street festival—while acknowledging challenges like long vendor lines, the difficulty of ticketed add‑ons, funding pressures, and the need for municipal and provincial promotion. Giuseppe calls for greater integration of festivals into broader tourism marketing to amplify economic and community benefits, emphasizing partnerships and data‑driven promotion as keys to sustainable growth.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Les Éléphants in Ontario: Cote d’Ivoire’s World Cup Journey and Diaspora Pride 23.06.2026 24хв

  As Ontario embraces being one of the hosts for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion continues its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Viviane Sinan, Vice President of ACIRT (Association de la Communauté Ivoirienne de la Région de Toronto), about the Ivorian community’s rapid growth over the last five years to roughly 30,000 people across Canada.Vivian explains how Ivorians contribute to Canadian society through education, culture, festivals, entrepreneurship, public service, and the Canadian Forces. ASIRT’s mission is to unite and organize the community, support newcomers, and enhance their impact in Canada. The organization hosts welcome days, sports activities, participation in a long-running multicultural festival in Mississauga, and workshops on mental health and financial literacy, particularly around navigating Canada’s credit system.The conversation also spotlights Ivorian culture and tourism, from Abidjan and Yamoussoukro’s basilica to coastal beaches, waterfalls, diverse regional cuisines like attieke and alloco, and vibrant music scenes including zouglou and artists like Magic System. Viviane underscores the significance of World Cup 2026™ for Ivorians at home and in the diaspora, describing the national team “Les Éléphants” as resilient, proud, and deeply connected to millions of supporters worldwide.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Germany: Beer, Football, and the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Boom 10.06.2026 32хв

  As Ontario prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion continues its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Anne Wagner-Mitchell, Consul General of Germany in Toronto, about the deep ties between Germany and Ontario, including the more than 1 million Ontarians of German heritage and strong German roots in Toronto, Mississauga, and Kitchener-Waterloo.From German clubs and Kitchener’s Oktoberfest to Toronto’s monthly German Walk, Anne shares how German culture continues to shape communities across Ontario. The conversation also explores German cuisine, beer traditions, and travel inspiration, including the Rhineland and Spreewald.Anne reflects on Germany’s 2006 World Cup, remembered as the “fairy tale summer,” and what major sporting events can mean for tourism, culture, and economic growth. With Germany set to play in Toronto during FIFA World Cup 2026™, she shares the excitement building among German fans and the German-Canadian community.The episode closes with Anne’s recommendations for visiting fans, from Toronto’s neighbourhoods and island skyline to Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Muskoka, and Algonquin Park.With Ontario Craft Beer Week running June 14–20, it’s also a great time for visiting fans and local listeners to explore Ontario’s craft breweries and the local communities behind them.Resources:German Walk with Bruce Bell (Toronto):  German Walk with Bruce Bell - Federal Foreign OfficeOntario Craft Brewers - Find a Brewery Near You: Trails | Ontario Craft BrewersForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Bosnia and Herzegovina: Culture, Community, and the Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ with Daniela Colic 04.06.2026 34хв

  As Ontario prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion launches its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Daniela Colic, Chargé d’affaires, a.i. for Bosnia and Herzegovina in Canada, about the deep ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ontario.Daniela shares the story of Ontario’s Bosnian community, many of whom arrived in Canada during the 1990s and have since helped shape vibrant communities across Mississauga, Etobicoke, Burlington, Hamilton, and beyond. From restaurants and local businesses to cultural celebrations and soccer pitches, the Bosnian presence in Ontario is rich, active, and deeply connected to both home and host country.The conversation also explores Bosnia and Herzegovina as a tourism destination, from the East-meets-West character of Sarajevo and the historic bridge in Mostar to Olympic legacy ski resorts, lakes, waterfalls, food, film, and the hospitality the country is known for. Daniela highlights beloved Bosnian dishes including ćevapi, burek, and other traditional pies, while sharing why food, sport, nature, and people are central to the country’s tourism story.Looking ahead to FIFA World Cup 2026™, Daniela speaks about the pride surrounding Bosnia and Herzegovina’s national team and its deep diaspora connections, with many players born and raised abroad while maintaining strong ties to Bosnian culture, language, and identity.She also shares the excitement building in and around Toronto, including fan zones, community gatherings, and a colourful fan march toward the stadium, inviting Ontarians and Canadians to join in the festivities and experience Bosnian culture, hospitality, and passion for football firsthand.This episode is part of Forward Motion’s Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, exploring the stories, cultures, and global connections that will help make the tournament a memorable moment for Ontario.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Destination Canada’s Playbook for Investment-Ready Tourism 21.05.2026 46хв

  In this episode of Forward Motion, Andrew Siegwart sits down with Johanna Griggs to explore the growing connection between tourism, economic development, and investment attraction.Drawing from her experience across municipal, provincial, and national tourism development, Johanna shares how tourism has evolved far beyond traditional marketing into a powerful tool for community regeneration, infrastructure growth, talent attraction, and long-term economic competitiveness.The conversation explores how Destination Canada is creating more space for destination management and investment readiness, helping position Canada as a leading global tourism investment opportunity. Johanna discusses the importance of building strong local ecosystems, fostering public support, leveraging tourism data, and aligning tourism with broader economic development priorities.Andrew and Johanna also discuss Ontario’s unique strengths, including gateway access, cultural diversity, strong domestic travel demand, and collaborative tourism networks. Together, they unpack what communities can do to become more investment-ready, why tourism is increasingly viewed as a resilient high-growth sector, and how tourism can support nation-building, business attraction, and Canada’s broader economic goals.From hotel investment and workforce challenges to global investment forums and regenerative tourism development, this episode offers valuable insights for tourism leaders, municipalities, DMOs, and economic development professionals looking to better understand tourism’s evolving role in shaping Canada’s future. Key Topics DiscussedThe evolution of tourism from destination marketing to destination managementWhy tourism investment differs from traditional economic development sectorsBuilding investment-ready tourism destinationsThe importance of tourism data, partnerships, and workforce planningDestination Canada’s tourism investment initiatives and global outreachOntario’s competitive advantages in tourism investmentTourism’s role in nation-building and economic resilienceThe future of DMOs and destination stewardshipLeveraging tourism to support broader economic and infrastructure developmentForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Shore Lunch, Shared Lakes, Unequal Playing Field: Fixing Cross-Border Angling Policy 07.05.2026 41хв

  This episode of Forward Motion dives into a growing challenge we've been hearing more and more about from operators in Northwestern Ontario. Andrew speaks with Laurie Marcil, Executive Director of the Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association, about how U.S. angling guides are increasingly bringing clients deep into Canadian border waters—profiting from a “Canadian experience” while contributing almost nothing to local communities or tax bases.Laurie explains how LMIA‑exempt work permits, bigger boats, and changes in border practices have created economic inequities, border security gaps, and serious conservation concerns for fisheries on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River. We talk about invasive species risks, lack of data and oversight, and why local outfitters, First Nations, municipalities, and other partners have formed a coalition to push for policy change, better enforcement, and true reciprocity with the U.S.We also explore what makes Northern Ontario tourism special: remote fly‑in and train‑in lodges, iconic shore lunches, authentic hosting, and emerging trends like more family and couple getaways grounded in sustainability and genuine connection to place.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Ontario’s Lakes Are Changing. Here’s What It Means for Tourism 22.04.2026 1год 7хв

  Water is Ontario's most powerful tourism asset. Our 250,000 lakes drive billions in visitor spending every year — from angling and paddling to cottage country getaways and waterfront dining. But those lakes are changing in ways that are already affecting visitor experience, destination appeal, and long-term business viability. In this Earth Day episode, Andrew Siegwart speaks with Dr. John Smol, one of Canada's leading environmental scientists to understand what's happening beneath the surface, and what it means for our industry.About our Guest:Dr. Smol is one of Canada's most recognized environmental scientists and a leading voice on lake health and climate change. He held the Canada Research Chair in Environmental Change for the maximum three 7-year terms (2001–2021), has authored over 760 scientific publications and 24 books, and has conducted fieldwork on all seven continents. His PEARL Lab at Queen's University uses lake sediments to reconstruct centuries of environmental history — giving policymakers, municipalities, and industries the long-term evidence base they need to make better decisions. In 2013 he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada.What we Cover:The science of reading lake history from sediment cores — and what centuries of data reveal about how fast things are changing nowBlue-green algal blooms: why they're increasing, why the old solutions aren't working as well, and what operators in affected areas should knowLake trout, walleye, and the angling economy — Ontario holds ~25% of the world's natural lake trout populations, and warming waters are shrinking their habitatInvasive species at our doorstep: Asian carp and what it would mean for Great Lakes-based tourismIce fishing seasons at risk — some communities have already lost entire seasons due to unsafe ice conditionsWildfire smoke: how fires hundreds of kilometres away are already forcing visitors to stay indoors and cancel travel plansWhat the Montreal Protocol teaches us about galvanizing governments — and the role industry voices play in making that happenPractical starting points for operators who want to act on sustainability — and why Dr. Smol says the business case is stronger than everResources and Initiatives: Looking to take action or learn more? Explore these programs, tools, and organizations supporting sustainability across Ontario’s tourism ecosystem:GreenStep | Sustainability that moves business forwardTake the Pledge | Sustainable Tourism 2030 PledgeIngersoll Key PuttDiscover unique Native Experiences in OntarioSustainable KingstonAir Canada – Leave lessSustainability | VIA RailPlanning Resources for Responsible Events | Ottawa TourismForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Beyond the Matches: FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Ontario’s Opportunity 17.04.2026 44хв

  Andrew Siegwart explores what the FIFA World Cup 2026™ means for Ontario’s tourism industry and how destinations can leverage this once-in-a-generation opportunity.Andrew is joined by Alex Mazanik of Context Research Group’s (CRG), who shares insights from a market intelligence study commissioned by Destination Ontario. Based on a survey of 1,400 likely FIFA World Cup 2026™ visitors, the research examines how travellers are planning their trips and what will influence where they go beyond Toronto.The conversation highlights Toronto’s role as a base for visitors, with strong intent to explore other parts of the province. In fact, 9 in 10 travellers indicate they are likely to travel beyond the city, reinforcing the opportunity for destinations across Ontario.Andrew and Alex also explore a shift in traveller behaviour, with visitors seeking more than just the matches. Atmosphere and overall experience are key drivers, particularly among high-value travellers who are comfortable navigating multi-city trips.The discussion emphasizes the importance of clarity in converting interest into action. Travellers are looking for simple, well-defined experiences and practical information that make it easy to plan and explore.The opportunity is significant, but not guaranteed. Destinations that are clear, visible, and easy to plan will be best positioned to convert visitors into overnight stays and repeat visits.Explore the full research: FIFA World Cup 2026™ Market Intelligence StudyForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Ontario Budget 2026: Tourism’s Role in Ontario’s Economy 26.03.2026 33хв

  This week’s episode of Forward Motion: The Ontario Tourism Podcast is a little different. Instead of an interview, host Andrew Siegwart shares some personal reflections as Ontario prepares to release its 2026 provincial budget, and what the tourism industry should be watching for.Drawing on conversations with industry leaders, recent government announcements, and the priorities outlined in Ontario’s new tourism strategy, Andrew offers an insider perspective on how tourism fits into the province’s broader economic story. He discusses why tourism should be seen not just as an industry, but as a practical tool for economic growth, workforce development, regional prosperity, and investment attraction.In this solo episode, Andrew walks through the key themes TIAO has been raising in its pre-budget advocacy including marketing and demand generation, workforce and training, private-sector investment, product development, and support for festivals, events, and Indigenous tourism, and he explains what signals he’ll be looking for when the budget is tabled.This is a candid, conversational update for anyone who wants to better understand how provincial policy decisions affect tourism businesses, destinations, and communities across Ontario and why this year’s budget could matter more than most.We’ll be back next episode with our regular interview format, but for now, thanks for listening — and for everything you do to keep Ontario’s tourism industry moving forward.📄 Read TIAO’s 2026 Pre-Budget SubmissionForward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Elevating Black Tourism Experiences in Ontario 12.03.2026 54хв

  Andrew Siegwart explores how Black tourism in Ontario is evolving from a niche offering to an essential driver of both culture and the visitor economy.Guests Dionne Bishop (Events by Dionne Inc.) and Emma Rowley (Ontario’s Southwest) share their career paths in tourism and discuss how the Black Tourism Working Group organically grew into the Black Tourism Alliance of Ontario.They highlight the impact of the Black Tourism Spark Program, which has helped catalyze new Black-owned restaurants, culinary tours, and Black history experiences while building vital networks and mentorship opportunities.The conversation also explores standout destinations and experiences across Southwestern Ontario, including festivals, Underground Railroad heritage sites in Chatham-Kent and Windsor, and emerging culinary and storytelling ventures.Andrew, Emma, and Dionne discuss the economic power of Black travelers, the importance of visibility, safety, and authenticity in tourism, and the need for intentional partnerships between entrepreneurs, DMOs, RTOs, and community organizations.The episode offers a clear call to action: integrate Black-owned experiences into the heart of Ontario’s tourism story and recognize tourism as a tool for equity, belonging, and economic growth.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Kelly Jackson on Toronto’s Visitor Boom, FIFA World Cup 2026™, and the Next Decade of Growth 05.03.2026 1год 9хв

  Toronto’s visitor economy is the focus of this week's guest, Kelly Jackson, Vice President of Destination Development at Destination Toronto. Listen in, while they unpack Toronto’s record-breaking 2025: 28.2 million visitors, $9.1 billion in visitor spending, and nearly $13.5 billion in total economic impact. Kelly explains how Toronto’s inclusive, globally connected yet distinctly Canadian identity, strong business events sector, and investment in experiences—from concerts and sports to culinary and culture—have driven growth, especially from international markets like the UK and Germany.They explore market diversification, air access challenges (including Asia and US routes), and the softening US market, along with a strategic shift toward targeting travelers by passion points rather than geography. Kelly highlights Toronto’s knowledge economy as a competitive advantage for attracting major conventions, the broader benefits that spill into regions across Ontario, and the city’s preparations for hosting FIFA World Cup 2026™ and a new 10‑year visitor economy master plan.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Danny Murrell and The Story Behind Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day 23.02.2026 39хв

  We explore the origins and impact of Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day in Ontario through the story of Danny Murrell, founder and CEO of Harrison Staffing. Host Andrew Siegwart traces Danny’s journey from an international student at the University of Toronto—who stumbled into catering to pay the bills—to a purpose-driven entrepreneur building a people-first staffing company.Danny shares how early frontline experiences in serving and janitorial work shaped his belief in dignity, respect, and genuine human connection at work. He explains Harrison Staffing’s model, centered on flexibility and opportunity for newcomers and international students, and how word-of-mouth and strong culture drive the business.The episode then explores a simple question—“Why isn’t there a day to recognize hospitality workers?”— which led Danny to work with MPP Ernie Hardeman and secure unanimous support at Queen’s Park to formally establish Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, celebrating the people who power Ontario’s tourism industry.This episode was released on February 23 which is officially recognized as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, proclaimed through the Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day Act, 2025. This day honours over 426,700 workers in restaurants, hotels, and catering services.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Ready for What’s Next: Sebastian Benedict on the Future of Canada’s Tourism Industry 12.02.2026 50хв

  Canada’s tourism industry is emerging from recovery into a high-stakes transition, and TIAC President & CEO Sebastian Benedict argues that the sector is both underestimated and ready. In conversation with Andrew Siegwart, he traces his path from political staffer and lobbyist to national tourism advocate, explaining how listening to operators across Canada has shaped his agenda. Despite headlines about record visitor spending, he notes that many SMEs still struggle with labour shortages, access to capital, and air access, while federal policy shifts on immigration and international students are compounding workforce challenges. Benedict stresses that tourism is a service export and economic solution, not just “vacation,” and that fragmented advocacy weakens the sector’s influence in Ottawa. He calls for unity, stronger investment in marketing and destination development, better emergency preparedness, and more federal champions for tourism, emphasizing that the industry is resilient, mobilized, and poised to play a bigger role in Canada’s economic future.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Special Edition: Andrew Interviewed 28.12.2025 53хв

  Andrew Siegwart, President of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario is interviewed by Samuel Miele and discussed the development of a five-year tourism strategy to address regional needs and economic conditions. The strategy includes forming strategic working groups and an alignment council to prioritize initiatives and measure success. Andrew emphasized the importance of diversifying tourism investments, including infrastructure and capital incentives, to attract both domestic and international visitors. He also highlighted the need for skills training and workforce development to address the current labor shortage. The conversation also touched on the impact of reduced international student numbers and the need for a balanced approach to tourism marketing and infrastructure investment. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Tomorrow's Tourism Talent: Challenges and Opportunities in Education 11.12.2025 59хв

  Dr. Chris Gibbs from Toronto Metropolitan University joins Andrew to explore the critical challenges facing tourism talent development. Drawing from his extensive experience, Gibbs discusses the evolving expectations of students, who are increasingly motivated by financial stability and career growth opportunities.The conversation covers the shifting dynamics of workforce recruitment, highlighting the need for employers to adapt to a new generation of workers who prioritize work-life balance and clear career pathways. Gibbs emphasizes the importance of work-integrated learning, introducing the Jumpstart initiative as an innovative approach to early student recruitment and engagement.Against the backdrop of funding challenges in post-secondary education and declining international student enrollment, Gibbs advocates for reimagining tourism education. He suggests focusing on core skills like service, leadership, and sustainability, while telling compelling stories that attract talent to the industry's diverse and dynamic career opportunities.Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Plate, Policy, and Progress: Inside Canada’s Restaurant Landscape with Kelly Higginson 27.11.2025 46хв

  Our guest is Kelly Higginson who provides an in-depth look at Canada’s restaurant industry, revealing the sector’s complex challenges and innovative solutions. Drawing from her extensive experience, Higginson discusses the ongoing struggles with rising input costs, workforce shortages, and the impact of economic pressures on restaurants nationwide.The conversation explores critical issues like immigration cuts, the importance of culinary training programs, and the potential of technology to support operators. Kelly highlights the “Food is Food” campaign, which demonstrated how policy changes like the GST holiday could create jobs and stimulate economic growth.Emphasizing the restaurant industry’s role as a cultural and economic driver, she underscores the sector’s resilience. From addressing misconceptions about skilled labor to advocating for supportive policies, Higginson paints a nuanced picture of an industry adapting to unprecedented challenges while remaining essential to Canada’s social and economic fabric. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Burlington's Bold Move: Merging Tourism and Economic Development 13.11.2025 40хв

  Andrew Siegwart is joined by Claire Green from Tourism Burlington to explore the city's innovative approach to destination development. Green shares how Burlington has merged its economic development and tourism departments into a single organization, creating a unified strategy for growth. The discussion highlights the city's new destination stewardship plan, which focuses on marketing, product development, and community engagement.Green explains how Burlington is positioning itself as more than just a pass-through city, showcasing its unique blend of waterfront, nature, and urban experiences. The conversation delves into the city's rebranding efforts, which aim to attract both visitors and investors by telling a compelling story about Burlington's character and potential.Andrew and Claire review the importance of collaborative planning, understanding audience synergies, and creating a dynamic brand that resonates with both residents and visitors. The episode offers a blueprint for mid-sized communities looking to reimagine their tourism and economic development strategies.More about Claire: Claire Green is the Director of Destination Development and Marketing at Burlington Economic Development and Tourism, the official economic development and destination management organization for the City of Burlington. In this role, Claire is responsible for implementing the city’s destination stewardship plan and delivering the marketing and communications objectives of the organization, ensuring Burlington is strategically positioned to attract both tourism and investment.A strategic and collaborative leader, Claire is recognized for her ability to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling strategies that inspire action. She is a skilled communicator who excels in building partnerships, engaging stakeholders, and leading high-performing teams to deliver innovative, award-winning results.Since joining the organization in 2013, Claire has led several transformative initiatives, including the design and launch of TechPlace, Burlington’s innovation centre providing space, resources, and programming to technology start-ups and entrepreneurs.Claire holds a Master of Arts in Cultural Analysis and Social Theory and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University, as well as a Business Marketing Diploma from Georgian College. In addition to being recognized as one of Business Link Media Group’s 40 Under 40, Claire has led award-winning initiatives that have received national and international recognition from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and the Economic Development Council of Canada (EDAC).Forward Motion thanks its partners for their support of this show:Ontario Travel & Tourism Monthly See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.