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

3 minute read
Influence Isn’t a Title. It’s a Tourism Skill.
Influence Isn’t a Title. It’s a Tourism Skill. Tourism professionals spend a lot of time thinking...
8 minute read
Top 8 Instructional Design Services for Tourism DMOs
When your frontline staff can't articulate what makes your destination special, visitors notice....
2 minute read
Quick Guide: Re-Engaging Tourism Ambassador Program Participants
Quick Guide: Re-Engaging Tourism Ambassador Program Participants Keeping ambassadors engaged after...
3 minute read
Know Why Your Work Matters: Creating More Meaningful Visitor Experiences Through Purpose
Creating More Meaningful Visitor Experiences Through Purpose Frontline tourism workers shape the...
2 minute read
The Future of Tourism is Human: A Conversation with Rachel Thompson
Tourism technology is evolving faster than ever. AI tools are changing search behavior. Video...
2 minute read
Curiosity & Generosity: The Culture Behind Exceptional Tourism Experiences
Curiosity is one of the most powerful forms of humility.
11 minute read
How to Measure Tourism Ambassador Training Impact in 2026
Destination marketing organizations invest significant resources in tourism ambassador training....
4 minute read
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training
7 Instructional Design Deliverables for DMO Training Destination marketing organizations are...
5 minute read
How Tourism Ambassador Training Improves Frontline Service
How Tourism Ambassador Training Improves Frontline Service Every visitor interaction shapes a...
3 minute read
Barefoot Luxury & Bold Leadership with Andia Ravariere of Nevis
Tourism leaders across the globe are facing an important question:

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.