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
The Secret to 100% Retention in Tourism Training and Education
The Secret to Achieving 100% Retention in Tourism Training and Education? Achieving 100% retention...
3 minute read
We All Think Differently: Why Diverse Perspectives Fuel Tourism Success
We All Think Differently: Why Diverse Perspectives Fuel Tourism Success Tourism thrives on...
2 minute read
AI-Powered Learning: Learn Tourism Takes the Lead
AI-Powered Learning: How Learn Tourism Is Leading the Future of Tourism Education Artificial...
2 minute read
Brain Power: How Neuroscience is Revolutionizing Tourism Leadership
Tourism thrives on great experiences, but behind every memorable visitor interaction lies an...
3 minute read
Tourism Industry Career Paths: A Serpentine Climb Fueled by Skill & Purpose
Careers in tourism don’t follow a straight line. After interviewing more than 250 CEOs across...
3 minute read
What Tourism Stakeholders Expect from Training in 2025: The Modern Blueprint
Tourism’s landscape is changing faster than ever, and in 2025, expectations for online training are...
1 minute read
Global Impact: Centre for Responsible Tourism Singapore Joins Learn Tourism
Global Impact: Centre for Responsible Tourism Singapore Joins Learn Tourism The Centre for...
2 minute read
Laugh, Listen, Lead: How Improv Comedy Makes Visitor Services Better
What if the secret to better visitor services wasn’t in a training manual, but on a comedy stage?
4 minute read
Elevating Destinations: Key Takeaways from the 2025 Destinations International Annual Convention
Elevating Destinations: Key Takeaways from the 2025 Destinations International Annual Convention ...
2 minute read
The Secret to Building Social Capital in Tourism: Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning: The Secret to Building Social Capital in Tourism Lifelong learning is more than...

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.