What does it really mean to live a life shaped by curiosity, courage, and connection? In this episode of the Business Class podcast, our founder, Stephen Ekstrom, takes the guest seat with special host John Percy, President & CEO of Niagara Falls USA. Together, they peel back the layers on a remarkable journey that started in a small New Hampshire town and now spans the globe.

A Life Fueled by Passion and People

Stephen’s story begins with a childhood trip to Washington, D.C., a moment that sparked a lifelong fascination with new places and cultures. From there, he’s followed his curiosity across continents, working to reimagine what tourism education can be. When the world changed overnight during COVID-19, Stephen saw an opportunity to shift from consulting to launching Learn Tourism, a nonprofit with a mission: create education that empowers, connects, and transforms communities.

Turning Setbacks into Purpose

Stephen’s leap into full-time travel wasn’t just a professional pivot—it was a personal one, too. Swapping a house in Florida for a 21-foot van (and eventually a “big old fancy bus”), he leaned into a nomadic life that’s as much about ongoing learning as it is about seeing the world. Through every challenge, he’s found new meaning by focusing on what matters most: people.

Learning as a Lifestyle

At Learn Tourism, education goes far beyond a classroom or course. Stephen and his team nurture a culture of continuous growth, celebrating “Learncation” days that encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zone, learn something new, and share those insights with the world. For Stephen, learning is more than a professional value, it’s a way of life.

Kindness, Connection, and the Spirit of Travel

Throughout the conversation, Stephen shares why the relationships we build are as important as the destinations we visit. From everyday acts of kindness to moments of surprise and discovery, he reminds us that travel is always about connection. As Learn Tourism celebrates over 40,000 enrollments and explores new projects from Nepal to Africa, the message is clear: kindness, adventure, and a passion for people can truly change the world.

Final Takeaway: Step Into the Adventure

Stephen leaves listeners with a simple but powerful message: Embrace every day as an adventure, step beyond your boundaries, and let curiosity lead you toward new possibilities. Whether you’re a tourism leader, lifelong learner, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode offers wisdom, inspiration, and a gentle nudge to take your own leap.

Learn more about Niagara Falls USA and the amazing work John Percy and his team are doing.

🎧 Listen to this episode of Business Class: “Embrace the Adventure: Lessons in Passion, People, and Change” available now wherever you get your podcasts.