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
How to Cultivate and Sustain a Learning Culture in Tourism Organizations
How to Cultivate and Sustain a Learning Culture in Tourism Organizations
2 minute read
Practicing What We Preach: How the Learn Tourism Conference Redefines Learning in the Industry
Practicing What We Preach: How the Learn Tourism Conference Redefines Learning in the Industry
2 minute read
Learn Tourism Leads the Next Wave of Industry Education with AI Teaching Assistant
Learn Tourism Leads the Next Wave of Industry Education with AI Teaching Assistant Tourism training...
2 minute read
15 Quotes to Inspire and Empower Your Tourism Ambassadors
15 Quotes to Inspire and Empower Your Tourism Ambassadors Tourism thrives on passion, connection,...
2 minute read
From Small Towns to Global Cities: Lessons for Every Destination Leader
From Small Towns to Global Cities: Lessons for Every Destination Leader
1 minute read
Visit Orlando's Casandra Matej On Life and Leadership
Exploring Life and Leadership with Casandra Matej
2 minute read
The Future of Tourism: 3 Themes That Will Define 2026 and Beyond
The tourism industry is changing faster than ever — and those who stay ahead of the curve will...
2 minute read
A Vibrant New Chapter for Discover Puerto Rico: A Conversation with Jorge L. Pérez
In this episode of Business Class: The Learn Tourism Podcast, host Stephen Ekstrom sits down with...
2 minute read
Why Destination Leaders Can’t Afford to Miss the 2026 Learn Tourism Conference
Why Destination Leaders Can’t Afford to Miss the 2026 Learn Tourism Conference Destination...
2 minute read
Real Fun, Real Leadership: Dan Rowe of Visit Panama City Beach
Few destinations embody fun quite like Panama City Beach, and few leaders embody resilience,...

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.