Stephen Ekstrom

Advisory Panel Chair and Chief Strategist at Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy at learntourism.org is Stephen Ekstrom. Ekstrom began his career in the 1990’s on college radio at Quinnipiac University. He went on to create and deliver successful tourism development strategies for now thriving destinations, theme restaurants, cultural institutions, theatrical management companies, and some of the world’s most recognized attractions. He’s called upon to speak at colleges and universities, conferences and countless panel discussions each year. He hosts Learn Tourism's Business Class podcast and is a featured writer for several travel magazines. He’s also been profiled by media giants like the New York Times, NBC, ABC, CBS Morning, and NY1.

Education that Takes you places

10 minute read
How to Greet Visitors: 20+ Examples to Try in Your Destination
Quick take: Want to wow visitors each moment they step into a neighborhood hotel, restaurant,...
The Art of Leadership With Rose Noble, Galena Country Tourism
She's an artist and a CEO, leading one of the most innovative destination marketing organizations...
2 minute read
Destinations International Names Ekstrom to Professional Development Committee
Destinations International, the association representing destination organizations and convention...
1 minute read
INFOGRAPHIC: 6 Mindsets for a New You in the New Year
Each year, millions are romanced by the potential and promise January brings. It’s a time for...
Two Degrees of Separation & Midwest Nice with Ellie Westman Chin, Destination Madison
"Where do you want to go in your career?" It's a question Ellie Westman Chin, CEO of Destination...
DEI and Community Engagement with Visit Sacramento's Sonya Bradley
Serving up messages that resonate, making sure the community is part of the tourism community and...
2 minute read
Learn Tourism Announces Top Travel Trends For 2023
"Everyday is an adventure," says The Learn Tourism | learntourism.org CEO Stephen Ekstrom, a...
Growing Together In Nashville with Butch Spyridon, CEO
Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp CEO and member of the Destinations International Board of...
Leveraging Airline Loyalty With Mark Ross-Smith, Status-Match
As a kid he collected airline time tables and model planes, now he's running one of the most...
2 minute read
7 Benefits of a Diverse Online Learning Community
An online learning community brings together diverse groups of students from different states,...

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