In this episode of the Bliss to Abundance podcast, join Kelli Hayes Smith as she chats with Stephanie Gries from Travefy to explore the art of crafting impactful travel itineraries for clients. From avoiding common mistakes to using technology and visual storytelling, Stephanie provides actionable tips to elevate client engagement and make your itineraries shine.

Together, they dive into:

• The must-have components of an itinerary that wows.
• How personalization enhances the client experience.
• Why dripping information prevents overwhelm.
• The role of mobile apps in modern travel planning.
• Visual elements that create a lasting impression.

Whether you’re a seasoned travel agent or just starting, this episode is packed with insights to help you deliver standout travel experiences that keep clients coming back for more.

Resources Mentioned:

• Travefy Website
• Learn more about Wanderlust Campus: Link to Website

Connect with Us:

• Follow Wanderlust Campus on Instagram: @CareersOnVacation
• Join our global training calendar: Sign Up Here

In this episode of Bliss to Abundance, Kelli Hayes Smith and Jen Haslacker dive deep into the world of travel insurance.

They discuss why clients are often hesitant to purchase travel insurance and how travel advisors can address these concerns with confidence.

From debunking common misconceptions to sharing real-life testimonials, they explore practical ways to integrate insurance into the client journey.

Whether it’s protecting your clients, your commission, or your reputation, this episode offers everything you need to position insurance as an essential part of travel planning.

What You’ll Learn:

• The psychology behind travel insurance objections.
• How to educate clients on the limitations of credit card and domestic insurance coverage.
• Strategies for addressing cost concerns and presenting insurance as essential.
• How sharing real-life testimonials can change client perspectives.
• The importance of offering insurance to safeguard your commission and reduce liability.

Resources Mentioned:

• Create your free Wanderlust Campus Account

Get Social with Us: Let’s keep the conversation going!  

• Instagram: ⁠@careersonvacation⁠
• Facebook: ⁠@WanderlustCEO⁠
• Website: ⁠Wanderlust Campus⁠ 

Today, Cyndi sits down with experts in Run Disney to help you understand how to sell Run Disney in your travel business.

Summary: Hey there, welcome to the latest episode where Kelli Hayes Smith and Jonathan Morris from Legato Host are kicking back and dishing out some real talk about the travel advisor game.

They're diving deep into the nitty-gritty of what it takes to become a travel advisor and why having one in your corner is still the way to go.

Forget the hype about AI taking over and the ease of booking online – they're here to remind us that human connections and relationships are the real magic in travel.

Plus, they're spilling the beans on why it's crucial for travel advisors to see themselves as pros, just like those rockstar real estate agents.

Oh, and they're not holding back on the hot topic of fees and whether to hitch your wagon to a consortia. So grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and let's dive into this laid-back chat about all things travel!

Takeaways:

• Bringing those consortia functions in-house? It's like unlocking a whole new level of flexibility and top-notch service for your clients.
• Building up that big ol' network of suppliers? That's your secret weapon for giving your clients the VIP treatment they deserve.
• Consortia relationships? Sure, they've got their perks, but sometimes they're like that clingy friend who just won't let you spread your wings and fly.
• Agent-centric marketing? It's like the missing puzzle piece in the travel industry, with most of the focus on pushing suppliers' stuff. Let's flip the script and put the spotlight back on us!
• It's time to shake things up and do it our own way. So let's challenge that status quo and build our businesses on our own terms – who's with us?

LINKS

Legato Host

Summary: Hey there, welcome to the latest episode where Kelli Hayes Smith and David Shull from Tern Travel are chatting up a storm about tech in the travel biz.

They're diving deep into the struggles travel agents face with ancient tech and why we're all craving some fresher options.

From the mind-numbing manual data entry to the headache of dealing with a bunch of disjointed systems, they're shining a light on all the messy stuff that slows us down.

But fear not! They're also championing the cool ways AI can swoop in and save us time, all while reminding us that the human touch is still where it's at.

Plus, they're dishing out tips on how to streamline our workflows and make our lives easier. It's a wild ride through the world of travel tech, and you won't want to miss it!

Takeaways:

• Old-school tech and system chaos? Yeah, they're big headaches for travel pros.
• AI? It's like our superhero sidekick, taking care of the boring stuff so we can focus on what we do best.
• Want to stop dropping the ball? Time to embrace streamlined processes and handy automation.
• Emails and travel tech? They're like peanut butter and jelly – a perfect match for making our lives smoother.
• Making checkout feel like a breeze? That's the secret sauce for building trust and sealing the deal.
• Know your worth, travel pros! When you're tech-savvy and professional, clients will pay what you're worth.
• Say goodbye to just booking – it's all about crafting killer plans that make clients' dreams come true.
• Protecting your business? Think solid terms and conditions and being savvy about chargebacks.

LINKS

Tern Travel

Join Cyndi Williams and Kelli Hayes-Smith as they spill the tea on fam trips and their recent escapades aboard the Icon of the Seas cruise ship.

Get ready for a relaxed chat packed with tips for travel agents on scoring those coveted fam trip invites and making the most of industry events.

They'll dish out all the juicy details about the Icon of the Seas, including some seriously cool features that you won't find on Google.

Plus, stick around for a sneak peek into the upcoming Wander Beyond retreat on the Utopia of the Seas!

Key Points:

• Fam trips are the golden ticket for travel agents, so buckle down and boost those sales to snag those invites.
• Remember, fam trips are all about work, not play. But hey, work doesn't have to be boring when you're cruising the high seas!
• Discover the hidden gems of the Icon of the Seas, like VIP dinners and rubber duck scavenger hunts. Quack-tastic!
• Upselling clients to Suite Class? It's not just about making more sales, it's about adding value and giving them the VIP treatment.
• Excited for the Wander Beyond retreat? Us too! Get ready to rub elbows with industry pros and soak up all the knowledge.

Sound Bites:

• "How do I get invited? How do I get these invites? Let's spill the secrets!"
• "We're gonna bring you the hottest content, straight from the decks of the Icon of the Seas."
• "Take your time, soak it all in, and let the brand vibes wash over you."
• "Upselling isn't just about the bottom line, it's about giving your clients the star treatment they deserve."
• "From Central Park chill vibes to Surfside kid fun, there's something for everyone on board."

Chapters:

• Introduction and Setting Sail
• All Aboard: Exploring the Icon of the Seas
• Hidden Treasures: Un-Googleable Finds
• Anchors Away: Takeaways for Travel Agents
• Smooth Sailing: Navigating the Embarkation Process
• Deck Vibes: Exploring the Ship's Hotspots
• Entertainment Galore: Showtime on the High Seas
• Marketing Ahoy: Tips for Travel Agents
• Ship Shape: Making the Most of Your Cruise
• Smooth Seas Ahead: Value of Working with Travel Agents
• Spa Days and Port Nights: Discounts and Delights
• Fam Trips and Invites: Insider Insights
• Prep Talk: Getting Ready for Industry Events
• Client Focus: Thinking Like a Traveler
• Game Plan: Strategizing Your Success
• Content Cruise: Gathering Marketing Material
• Announcement: Wander Beyond Retreat
• VIP Treatment: All Aboard the Retreat
• Setting Sail: Booking Your Spot
• Smooth Sailing: Closing Remarks

LINKS

Wander Beyond Retreat

Join us on this weeks podcast with our special guest, Abby Grace, where we are talking about all things Branding, Brand Shoots & Photography. This year we had 2 brand photoshoots & Abby was able to bring the Wanderlust Campus brand to life!


https://abbygracephotography.com/

Travel Advisors: Have you started a travel business but haven't learned about the legal side of your business? Follow along on todays Bliss to Abundance podcast with our special guest, Sheila Folk, to learn how to protect your business with the help of Travel Industry Solutions.


https://travelindustrysolutions.com/




www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Email marketing is just one of the many steps in your travel business. But the real question is: what is the reason why you want to start email marketing? Today we have a very special guest, Lynley Hipps, to talk about all things email marketing.


https://lynleyhipps.com/

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow
travelschool.com

Join us on this weeks episode with my daughter, Bella Williams! Today we are discussing what it was like to grow up with entrepreneurs as parents.


www.careersonvacation.com/readynow
https://wanderlust-social.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Success-Principles-Workbook-Jack-Canfield/dp/0062912895/ref=asc_df_0062912895/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=509191820350&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2499173880571790469&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1026201&hvtargid=pla-904372160156&psc=1&mcid=e4a42dca585737c386b3eb0460b6aef5&gclid=CjwKCAiA1-6sBhAoEiwArqlGPmM3eWUH7s7SvV10cxy1y1DtXcNWC6sOxdFBBXaMidR7r9TpX3GkfxoC3UMQAvD_BwE

On this weeks episode of Bliss to Abundance, we are discussing all things luxury: how to set yourself up as a luxury brand, what selling luxury means & what destinations are best for a luxury vacation.



https://luxurytravelagencyhost.com/

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Hello fellow Ghouls & Goblins! This week we are talking all things spooky! Whether it be a myth or legend, we are covering all things haunted. Have you ever stayed at a spooky destination? Tell us down below! Stay tuned on today podcast for the second edition of spooky destinations.

https://traveltribeco.com/

Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Bliss to Abundance, Kelli Hayes Smith welcomes Justin Hinkel, CEO of Suitcase Designs, to dive into the world of website design for travel agents.

Together, they explore how a well-designed website can transform your business by building trust with your clients. From harnessing the power of testimonials and reviews to showcasing certifications and creating an on-brand user experience, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you stand out online and grow your travel business.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why testimonials and reviews are essential for trust-building.
• How to automate collecting client feedback for testimonials.
• The difference between reviews and testimonials—and why both matter.
• How to effectively display certifications to boost credibility.
• Design tips for a clean and professional online presence.
• The importance of engaging with reviews and maintaining your online reputation.

Sound Bites:

• "Websites make you feel like a legit business."
• "Your response matters to reviews."
• "A clean, professional design avoids clutter."

Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Justin Hinkel at Suitcase Designs
• Create a FREE Wanderlust Campus Account

Get Social with Us:
Let’s keep the conversation going!

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @careersonvacation
Facebook: @WanderlustCEO
Website: Wanderlust Campus

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! 🌟

One of our Careers on Vacation graduates created an amazing planner for travel agents. She really thought of everything! Stay tuned on todays podcast to see everything that is included in this awesome, happiest planner.


wanderlustceo.com/planner
Discount Code: CYNDI15 for 15% off total purchase

Came up with the perfect brand name & wondering how to keep your branding under lock down? Follow along on todays podcast for a deeper dive into Trademarking for your travel business!


https://www.sproutlaw.com/

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Lock down your travel business & find out all the useful tips Amanda has to offer about Cyber Security.


https://sunnybluetravel.com/

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Have you been thinking about starting a podcast but don't know where to start? Stay tuned on todays Bliss to Abundance Podcast for more details!



https://podunityconnect.com/

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Solo travel is discussed with Jen Tenzer, owner of the Soloist travel agency specializing in curating the perfect solo trip of your dreams!

https://www.thesoloist.travel

We have been saying this FOREVER...now, it is time to get serious and cancel those auto schedulers for your social media channels!

Everyone is talking about THREADS! What is this application and how do I use it to promote my travel business?

Guest, Aaron Bergman, owner of Find Your Pride Travel agency, discusses travel and the LGBTQIA+ community.

https://findyourpridetravel.com

Stay tuned to learn from travel expert, Sheila Folk, on how to legally protect your travel business.



https://travelindustrysolutions.com/about/

Learn best practices for setting new goals in 2023.

Summary

Welcome to an inspiring conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and industry experts Molly Johnson and Brad Turner from TERN. We’re diving deep into the world of workflows and how they can transform the way travel agents work. If you're looking to save time, boost efficiency, and create unforgettable client experiences, this episode is for you.

Learn about the must-have workflows that every travel agent needs, from managing new leads to keeping client touchpoints on track.

We’ll also explore how technology, including AI, can take your business to the next level. Discover how TERN’s CRM and project management platform is designed to help you streamline your operations and achieve your goals with confidence.

VISIT TERN IN THE WLC PARTNER PORTAL

Listen to learn effective tips and tricks for marketing during the holiday season.

https://engagetravelco.com

Host Cyndi Williams and travel agency owner of Travel Tribe Co., Natalie Barber, discuss the spookiest travel destinations!

https://www.traveltribeco.com
careersonvacation.com/readynow

What are unique characteristics that make a travel businesses able to hit six-figures with annual profits? Special guests, Andy and Liz Sutherland, owners, Come & See Travel.

https://comeandseetravel.com/home

On this week's episode we talk all things Virgin Voyages. Learn about the new cruise line with guest, Lauren Harris.

We are talking with Jamie Santillo, owner of Adventures by Jamie, discussing about accessibility within the travel industry.

https://adventuresbyjamie.com/
www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

We are discussing the details on how to make a retreat a success! We are joined by agency owners, Tammi Grant and Margie Lieb.

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

We will discuss what exceptional service is key to succeeding in the travel industry with special guest, Jennifer Wayland from Island Travel Group.

www.careersonvacatio.com/readynow

Cyndi and Mike will discuss about Travel Leaders Network and their significance in the Travel Industry.

https://www.travelleadersnetwork.com/
www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

A discussion on marketing tips from top performing travel agents.

wanderlust-social.com

Cyndi’s vendor spotlight!

careersonvacation.com/readynow

Show Notes :

Join us on the Bliss to Abundance podcast as Wanderlust’s George Flynn and Kelli Hayes Smith explore the spine-chilling world of haunted travel! Discover eerie destinations across the U.S. and beyond, from the mystical streets of New Orleans to the historic charm of Salem, the ghostly fields of Gettysburg, and Charleston's haunted tales. We’ll also venture into iconic sites like The Stanley Hotel and Dracula’s castle in Romania.

In this episode, George and Kelli delve into the fascinating world of spooky travel and its pop culture connections. From haunted bus tours and the Tower of London to the eerie Annabelle doll and gripping crime museums, they explore how these places blend entertainment with a deep connection to history. Tune in for insights on approaching these haunted sites with respect and understanding.

Tips on how to keep profiting from wave season with special guest, Kim Sims.

careersonvacation.com/readynow

Learning the ins and outs of using Genie+ with special guest, Brandon Foster.

careersonvacation.com/readynow

Tips for taking advantage of the biggest marketing week of the year. Strategy for promotional marketing during the holiday season.

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Cyndi Williams breaks down the importance of building a niche for your business’s brand to become successful.

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Cyndi Williams discussing tips to do this Fall that will get you ahead for your business the follow year.

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Cyndi Williams discusses the importance of marketing in your travel agency.

www.careersonvacation.com/readynow

Cyndi William’s discuss the different ways that being charitable through your foundation can help your business grow.

On this show we will address the major concerns that travel advisor face in todays climate.

Scott & Jim from Up & Away Adventures are live on the show today.
We are discussing a revolutionary new travel product. I'm using it in my Travel Agency and in my home right now, and I LOVE it!

https://www.upandawayadventures.com/

Join me as I interview Mick LaHoda, economist specialist and retired educator of 40 years. Mick is sharing the history & present economy as it relates to the travel industry, and how travel agents can prepare for the rebound of COVID-19.

careersonvacation.com/readynow

Summary

Join us for a conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and Justin Hinkle as they dive into the essential role of a website for travel professionals.

Discover why a polished online presence is non-negotiable and how a compelling homepage can captivate potential clients.

Learn about the power of a Google Business Page in establishing credibility and legitimacy. We explore the incredible benefits of websites in boosting SEO, driving content marketing, and generating leads.

Plus, find out why a mobile-friendly, responsive website is key to a seamless user experience. Our discussion wraps up with invaluable insights on tracking website metrics and leveraging data to enhance your online effectiveness.

Takeaways

• Professional Online Presence: Establishing a website is crucial for travel professionals to attract and connect with potential clients.
• Persuasive Homepage: Your homepage should showcase your expertise, solve client problems, and motivate visitors to book consultations.
• Google Business Page: This tool validates your business, providing reviews and essential information to boost client trust.
• SEO & Lead Generation: Websites enhance your SEO efforts, fuel content marketing, and generate valuable leads.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Ensure your website is responsive and offers a flawless user experience, especially on mobile devices.
• Website Metrics: Tracking and analyzing data is vital to gauge your website's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction and Background
• 04:07 - The Necessity of a Website for Travel Professionals
• 08:19 - Creating a Persuasive Homepage
• 11:36 - The Role of a Google Business Page
• 19:19 - The Significance of Mobile-Friendly Websites
• 26:09 - Websites for Education, Content Marketing, and Lead Generation
• 35:00 - Tracking Website Metrics and Analyzing Data

LINKS :

Wanderlust Campus

Wanderlust Campus's Instagram

Wanderlust Campus Facebook Group

Suitcase Designs

I am sharing 5 totally free things you can do right now to kickstart & grow your travel business.

careersonvacation.com/readynow

Want to hit the reset button and get your travel business back on track? Learn how to end 2020 strong, and set yourself up for an explosive 2021. I am sharing my top tips to reset, and exactly what I am doing right now to thrive.

Here’s my free Spotify motivational playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2zckIGVJHaQpfaASHIg6aq?si=SG7U8KBnSWiWRbF8B1xkDA

Become a Travel Agent in three simple steps, plus the essential free resources that will help get started quickly.

Selecting a reputable host: www.careersonvacation.com/freegift
Free Masterclass: www.careersonvacation.com/masterclass
Travel Agency Launch Kit: www.wanderlustceo.com/launch
***Get 75% off with offer code: SECRET75

You may be asking yourself, is now REALLY the right time to start or grow my travel business? I’m answering your MOST ASKED questions on today’s livestream.