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

2 minute read
Beyond Heads in Beds: What High Point Teaches Us About the Future of Tourism
Beyond Heads in Beds: What High Point Teaches Us About the Future of Tourism Tourism leaders have...
4 minute read
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training Destination marketing organizations invest...
10 minute read
Measuring Tourism Ambassador Training Impact in 2026
You've invested in tourism ambassador training. You've got a cohort of trained staff, volunteers,...
2 minute read
The Real Training Goal Is Confidence, Connection, and Community Impact
The Real Goal Isn’t Training—It’s Confidence, Connection, and Community Impact
2 minute read
Smarter Tourism Training Starts Here: 5 Shifts That Make the Difference
Why Most Tourism Training Fails (And What High-Performing Destinations Do Instead)
2 minute read
Tourism Has a People Problem (And It’s Not What You Think) with Carmen Bold
Tourism Has a People Problem (And It’s Not What You Think) Tourism isn’t failing because of...
4 minute read
How Destination Marketing Organizations Can Bring in Program Sponsors
How Destination Marketing Organizations Can Bring Local Business Partners in as Program Sponsors ...
3 minute read
Better Visitors: Leveraging Education to Shape Sustainable Tourism
Education as a Catalyst for Better Visitors: Aligning Tourism with Stewardship and Sustainability
3 minute read
Do You Really Need Tourism Training? A 2-Minute Self-Assessment for Destination Leaders
Do You Really Need Tourism Training? A 2-Minute Self-Assessment for Destination Leaders

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.