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

2 minute read
Before You Build a Tourism Ambassador Program, Answer These Five Questions
Communities across North America are embracing tourism ambassador programs to strengthen local...
2 minute read
Tourism Deserves a Seat at the Table with Jill Delaney
Leadership lessons from Discover Albany CEO Jill Delaney
6 minute read
Residents First: Tourism for Livability
The Festival Residents Used to Plan Their Year Around Ask around at just about any destination...
5 minute read
Eleven Years of Learning Before, During, and After the Launch
This year, Learn Tourism turns six.
3 minute read
Livability as the North Star: Why Educated Residents Are a Destination's Greatest Asset
What if the most important tourism metric isn't arrivals?
2 minute read
Embracing the Heart of Tourism: A Conversation with Marie Lacouture
In the ever-changing landscape of tourism, the human connection remains a cornerstone of memorable...
6 minute read
How Tourism Ambassador Training Drives Repeat Visits
Repeat visitation doesn't happen by accident. When visitors return to your destination year after...
3 minute read
After Your Tourism Ambassador Program Launches: Three Strategies That Keep Momentum Going
If your tourism ambassador training launched successfully, congratulations. That's only the...
2 minute read
20 Million Stories: The Human Side of Hospitality with Hilton's Catherine Linskey
In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of hospitality and philanthropy, two distinct...
5 minute read
How to Design Tourism Ambassador Training in 2026
Build a tourism ambassador training program that changes frontline staff behavior, improves...

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