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
Stress-Free Strategies: Building Your Online Tourism Ambassador and Stakeholder Training Course
In destination marketing, the role of tourism ambassadors and stakeholders is crucial for creating...
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Training Destination Stewardship
Training community members and visitors to be destination stewards is a crucial aspect of...
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Online Learning, Instructional Design, Organizational Psychology, and Tourism Expertise for Destination Marketing Organizations
In the tourism industry, Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) play a pivotal role in...
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Crafting a Compelling Tourism Training Course: Applying Your Destination's Brand Voice and Local Expertise
As destination marketers, the success of your online tourism training course relies not only on the...
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Psychology and Training for Destination Marketing Organizations
Psychology plays a crucial role in creating effective training programs for destination marketing...
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Destination Success: A Step-by-Step Guide for Destination Marketing Organizations to Train Travel Agents and Tour Operators
Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) play a crucial role in promoting tourism and ensuring...
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Decoding Compensation: Navigating the Landscape of Tourism And Training Consultant Payment Strategies
In the dynamic landscape of destination marketing, the success of a Destination Marketing...
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Empowering Communities: The Impact of Local Tourism Ambassador Training on Visitor Experiences and Sustainable Tourism
In the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism industry, fostering positive and authentic...
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Learn Tourism Drives Engagement, Stewardship, and Visitor Growth
In the dynamic world of tourism, destinations are constantly seeking innovative ways to...
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What is a Needs Analysis in Tourism Training?
Training tourism stakeholders? A needs analysis is a pivotal step in crafting transformative,...

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.