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

1 minute read
Award-Winning Writer Joins The Learn Tourism Team
Award-winning journalist Gina Donio has joined The Learn Tourism | learntourism.org team as a...
Reputation Travels with Monica Smith, Southeast Tourism Society
"Your reputation travels with you," says Monica Smith, President & CEO atSoutheast Tourism Society...
US Travel's Nan Marchand Beauvois on Foresight, Growth, and Some Crystals
Nan Marchand Beauvois isU.S. Travel Association’s senior vice president of membership and industry...
Big Leadership In A Small Destination With Melyssa Reeves, Visit Vacaville
Growing up in the travel business, Melyssa never thought she'd be leading a DMO for 20+ years. Now,...
1 minute read
A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Destination Marketing in Tourism
In the ever-evolving world of tourism, destination marketing plays a crucial role in shaping the...
Business Psychology, Behavioral Economics and Brett Oetting, Visit Corpus Christi
With a background in business psychology and behavioural economics, and a love for Applebee's, ...
4 minute read
4 Types of Destination Advocates & Tourism Ambassadors
Why are destination advocates important?
Where Education Meets Innovation: Newport Beach With Gary Sherwin
A lifetime learner, passionate educator, and leader amongst destination marketers, Gary Sherwin,...
2 minute read
Community Service: Top 10 Reasons to Volunteer
16 January is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the US and designated as a National Day of Service....

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.