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

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,...
Living The Dream In Your Destination With Milton Segarra, Discover the Palm Beaches
From a small hotel in a fishing village to one of the most desired destinations in the country,...
1 minute read
Broadway Inbound Takes Product Training Online
Travel agents & meeting planners are hungry for product training when they need it and where they...
Traveler Sentiment And Innovation With Amir Eylon, Longwoods International
Amir Eylon, President & C.E.O. atLongwoods International, is making a difference. Here, he joins...
Jerad Bachar, Visit Pittsburgh, Talks Shop With The Learn Tourism
"The game has changed - we have got to make sure destinations continue to adapt and are serving the...
Tackling Unfinished Business With Martha Sheridan, Greater Boston CVB
"I'm living my best life now..." says Martha Sheridan, CEO of the Greater Boston Convention &...
6 minute read
The Learn Tourism Welcomes New Advisory Panel Members, Experts In Education, Leadership Development, Tourism and DE&I
New Advisory Panel Members Will Lend Their Expertise to The Learn Tourism's Latest Ventures and...
3 minute read
4 Tips for Rock-Solid Corporate Partnerships
Just like a free lunch, there’s no such thing as a free sponsorship. Businesses want to partner...

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.