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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Learn Tourism Among the Top Finalists for the 2025 Skål Sustainable Tourism Awards
Learn Tourism Among the Top Finalists for the 2025 Skål Sustainable Tourism Awards Recognition in...
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Tourism Learning Culture Checklist
Tourism Training & Talent Development: Learning Culture Checklist Organizations thrive when tourism...
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Mastering the Tourism Terrain: Strategic Growth and Real Relationships with Adam Stoker and Stephen Ekstrom
Mastering the Tourism Terrain: Strategic Growth and Real Relationships with Adam Stoker and Stephen...
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Balancing the Scales of AI and Empathy in Tourism Marketing
Balancing the Scales of AI and Empathy in Tourism Marketing {% video_player "embed_player"...
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Driving Tourism Transformation in Uncertain Times
Driving Tourism Transformation in Uncertain Times Uncertainty can feel paralyzing, but for...
3 minute read
10 Workplace Secrets That Make Everyone Want to Work With You
10 Workplace Secrets That Make Everyone Want to Work With You Success in the workplace isn’t just...
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3 Ways Learn Tourism Helps Destinations Save Money Through Education
3 Ways Learn Tourism Helps Destinations Save Money Through Education Tourism leaders know that...
2 minute read
Two Global Leaders Join Learn Tourism’s Advisory Panel
Two Global Leaders Join Learn Tourism’s Advisory Panel At Learn Tourism, we believe that education...
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Emotionally Intelligent Tourism Teams: How EQ Training Drives Better Guest Experiences and Business Results
Emotionally Intelligent Tourism Teams: How EQ Training Drives Better Guest Experiences and Business...
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Business Class Podcast: How Mike Testa Turned Sacramento into a Destination Worth Talking About
Business Class Podcast: How Mike Testa Turned Sacramento into a Destination Worth Talking About

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.