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

3 minute read
5 Educational Programs Every Destination Should Include in Its Annual Budget
Destinations invest millions of dollars each year in advertising, events, public relations, website...
3 minute read
Edward Harris, Visit Williamsburg on Tourism, Sneakers, and America's 250th
What Else Is There To Do Here? The Question Every Destination Should Be Asking Success can be a...
3 minute read
Changing the Narrative: What Tourism Leaders Can Learn from Peter Gamez
Some leaders focus on marketing destinations.
4 minute read
Tourism Sustainability Isn't About Controlling Tourists. It's About Designing Better Choices.
Tourism Sustainability Isn't About Controlling Tourists. It's About Designing Better Choices. For...
4 minute read
Seasonal Destination Playbook: A Guide to Tourism Ambassador Training
Seasonal Destination Playbook: A Guide to Tourism Ambassador Training Seasonal destinations operate...
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,...

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