Stephen Ekstrom

Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and founder of Learn Tourism | learntourism.org. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love of knowledge have made him a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, Sustainable Business Strategy and Transforming Customer Experiences from Harvard Business School, and Sustainable Tourism Destination Management from Cornell.

Education that Takes you places

11 minute read
How to Measure Tourism Ambassador Training Impact in 2026
Destination marketing organizations invest significant resources in tourism ambassador training....
4 minute read
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training Destination marketing organizations are...
5 minute read
How Tourism Ambassador Training Improves Frontline Service
How Tourism Ambassador Training Improves Frontline Service Every visitor interaction shapes a...
3 minute read
Barefoot Luxury & Bold Leadership with Andia Ravariere of Nevis
Tourism leaders across the globe are facing an important question:
4 minute read
Lead With Learning
Lead With Learning: Why Curiosity Is the Most Magnetic Storytelling Tool in Tourism Tourism...
3 minute read
More Than Marketing: Scott Larson on Tourism Leadership, Stewardship & Building Stronger Communities
Tourism organizations across the world are being asked to do more than ever before. Communities...
2 minute read
Overtourism Isn’t the Problem. Unmanaged Tourism Is.
Overtourism Isn’t the Problem. Unmanaged Tourism Is.
4 minute read
How Tourism Ambassador Training Drives Repeat Visits
How Tourism Ambassador Training Drives Repeat Visits Repeat visitation is one of the most valuable...
2 minute read
Global Minds, Local Impact
Global Minds, Local Impact: Why a Fully Remote Team Makes Learn Tourism the Smartest Choice for...
2 minute read
Tourism That Works for Everyone: Lessons from Baltimore’s New Leadership
Tourism That Works for Everyone: Lessons from Baltimore’s New Leadership Tourism has long been...

Where Will Knowledge Take You?

Curiosity and a passion for lifelong learning fuel both the traveler and those who make experiences worth having. Join us.