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

4 minute read
Reimagining Tourism Training: Why Learn Tourism Is the Future
Unlocking Potential: How Learning Theories are Revolutionizing Tourism Education With Learn Tourism
3 minute read
I Slipped and Fell Into Tourism Learning (And Landed Exactly Where I Belong)
I didn’t choose tourism education. It chose me in a wonderfully chaotic, totally unexpected, and...
3 minute read
Borrow from Marketing to Boost Tourism Learning Impact
In today’s content-saturated world, catching and keeping someone’s attention is a tall order....
2 minute read
Unexpected Role Reversal: Stephen Ekstrom on Life as a Digital Nomad
What happens when the host becomes the guest?
3 minute read
Improve Learning Outcomes With Fun: The Science of Serious Play
In a world where professional development often feels like a checkbox activity, weaving fun into...
2 minute read
Everyone’s Using AI. Few Are Using It Well.
Artificial Intelligence has swiftly moved from novelty to necessity across industries. In tourism...
2 minute read
Donuts, Detours & DIY: How a Casual Conversation Turned Into a Masterclass in Tourism Education
Featuring Chris Cavanaugh of Magellan Strategy Group
2 minute read
How to Get Leadership to Say “Yes” to Tourism Education
How to Get Leadership to Say “Yes” to Tourism Education Convincing leadership to invest in...
3 minute read
Minding the Gap: Closing the Distance Between Learning and Destination Strategy
Most destination marketing organizations have grand visions. They imagine thriving communities...

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.