Stephen Ekstrom

Advisory Panel Chair and Chief Strategist at Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy at learntourism.org is Stephen Ekstrom. Ekstrom began his career in the 1990’s on college radio at Quinnipiac University. He went on to create and deliver successful tourism development strategies for now thriving destinations, theme restaurants, cultural institutions, theatrical management companies, and some of the world’s most recognized attractions. He’s called upon to speak at colleges and universities, conferences and countless panel discussions each year. He hosts Learn Tourism's Business Class podcast and is a featured writer for several travel magazines. He’s also been profiled by media giants like the New York Times, NBC, ABC, CBS Morning, and NY1.

Education that Takes you places

4 minute read
The Learn Tourism Guide to Being a Great Boss
Leadership lessons for people who want to build stronger teams, healthier workplaces, and more...
2 minute read
What It Really Takes to Reach the Top of Tourism Leadership
Every so often, you have a conversation that reminds you why learning matters.
4 minute read
A Guide to Developing a Community Ambassador Program for Tourism Destinations
A Guide to Developing a Community Ambassador Program for Tourism Destinations Communities shape...
3 minute read
One of the Most Expensive Mistakes in Tourism Today
One of the Most Expensive Mistakes in Tourism Today Organizations spend millions attracting...
3 minute read
7 Benefits of a Community Ambassador Program
7 Benefits of a Community Ambassador Program Communities thrive when residents, front-line workers,...
1 minute read
A Conversation with Tourism Luminary Don Welsh
A Conversation with Tourism Luminary Don Welsh: Reflecting on Three Years of Change and Progress In...
3 minute read
Influence Isn’t a Title. It’s a Tourism Skill.
Influence Isn’t a Title. It’s a Tourism Skill. Tourism professionals spend a lot of time thinking...
8 minute read
Top 8 Instructional Design Services for Tourism DMOs
When your frontline staff can't articulate what makes your destination special, visitors notice....
2 minute read
Quick Guide: Re-Engaging Tourism Ambassador Program Participants
Quick Guide: Re-Engaging Tourism Ambassador Program Participants Keeping ambassadors engaged after...
3 minute read
Know Why Your Work Matters: Creating More Meaningful Visitor Experiences Through Purpose
Creating More Meaningful Visitor Experiences Through Purpose Frontline tourism workers shape the...

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