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

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9 Reasons to Switch to Learn Tourism
9 Reasons to Switch to Learn Tourism Destination leaders don’t make change lightly. You juggle...
3 minute read
What's Coming to Learn Tourism in 2026
What’s Coming to Learn Tourism in 2026 Learn Tourism is entering 2026 with momentum, curiosity, and...
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With Gratitude and a Passion for Learning
Gratitude grows quiet just before sunrise. That’s something I learned somewhere between a gravel...
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Train Travel Agents Worldwide: Why It Matters and How Destinations Do It Well
Train Travel Agents Worldwide: Why It Matters and How Destinations Do It Well Travel agents and...
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Learn Tourism Levels Up: A New Era of Tourism Training, Technology, and Transformation
Learn Tourism Levels Up: A New Era of Tourism Training, Technology, and Transformation Growth at ...
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Smarter Learning, Stronger Associations
Trade associations occupy a unique and dynamic intersection of community, expertise, and collective...
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Real Tourism Ambassador Metrics CEOs Actually Care About
Destinations build tourism ambassador programs because people matter: {% video_player...
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Tourism Ambassador Training Starts Here: A Clear Roadmap for Destinations
Your Community Knows You Need a Tourism Ambassador Program. Here’s How Smart Destinations Actually...
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Unforgettable Tourism Keynotes: Be Interested, Not Just Interesting
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Discover the Magic of Laguna Beach with Joanna Bear
We are thrilled to announce the latest episode of our podcast, featuring an engaging and insightful...

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.