Destination On The Left – Details, episodes & analysis

We're taking you on a road trip through the future of tourism in Atlantic Canada. You'll hear firsthand from tourism leaders on how the region captivates new generations of travelers while staying true to its maritime roots. We also spotlight the rise of Indigenous-led travel experiences and the wave of creativity from local artisans. From group travel trends to the power of regional collaboration, each story underscores how Atlantic Canada's tourism pros aren't just adapting—they're shaping what meaningful travel looks like for the years ahead.

• Molly Vail: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-vail/
• Nancy Petrie: https://www.oakislandresort.ca/
• Natalie Kaftan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliekaftan/
• Katherine Verreault: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-verreault
• Kelley Keefe: linkedin.com/in/kelley-keefe-07841a1a6
• Robert Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-thomas-225165161/
• Desirea Goodyear: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desirea-goodyear-77294a26b/
• Tasha Robitaille: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tasha-robitaille-0a790029/
• Wahab Khan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wahab-khan-b809862ab/
• Jacob Sheehan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-sheehan-71ba578b/
• Jen Silliphant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-silliphant/

• How Atlantic Canadian tourism leaders are embracing innovation and sustainable growth to shape the future of travel in the region
• Why collaboration and partnership is essential for delivering impactful guest experiences
• What trends are emerging in traveler interests, including immersive cultural experiences, wellness tourism, and eco-friendly adventures
• How the region is adapting to the rising interest from younger travelers, families, and international visitors
• Why authenticity, local culture, and culinary experiences are setting Atlantic Canada apart as a travel destination
• How Indigenous tourism and wellness-focused offerings are growing and diversifying the visitor experience
• What successful creative collaborations look like in practice

Community lies at the heart of Atlantic Canada's tourism ethos. This spirit of partnership, as showcased at the Atlantic Canada Showcase event, has made the region a model for collaborative success. Provinces, cities, and businesses work hand-in-hand to offer amazing visitor experiences and nurture economic growth.

Four provinces unite to market the region, develop meaningful partnerships, and promote the Maritimes. These collaborations aren't just behind the scenes—they tangibly widen access for visitors and amplify the region's reach in international markets.

If there's one word repeated by tourism leaders throughout the episode, it's "authenticity." Atlantic Canada isn't about cookie-cutter vacations; it's about experiences crafted by the local communities. Molly Vail from Discover Halifax highlights how the city blends youthful energy with maritime charm, offering guests handcrafted itineraries that range from vineyards to vibrant nightlife.

Natalie Kaftan of Tauck emphasizes the enduring appeal of the Maritimes' local character and color. Visitors are drawn to real people, unique food, and meaningful cultural exchanges, not just passive sightseeing. As travel trends shift worldwide, immersive itineraries and authentic local engagement are increasingly in demand. Whether it's an Acadian caviar tasting in New Brunswick or a craft-making workshop in Mahone Bay, guests are eager for stories and experiences that go beyond the surface.

Indigenous-led tourism is gaining extraordinary momentum in Atlantic Canada. Robert Thomas from the Newfoundland and Labrador Indigenous Tourism Association shares how guests now seek engagement with indigenous cultures—culinary experiences, guided hikes with elders, and artistic workshops are just the beginning. Tasha Robitaille's La Belle Cabane healing sanctuary offers a blend of wellness and indigenous knowledge, where visitors can participate in breathwork sessions, explore Métis traditions, and join healing retreats that are as restorative as they are educational.

This surge in interest reflects a broader travel trend: visitors crave deeper connection, healing, and learning as much as recreation. Ultimately, Atlantic Canada Showcase itself, described as "intimate," "impactful," and "powerful" by my guests, epitomizes the region's strengths. Small size becomes an advantage, enabling tight-knit partnerships, genuine hospitality, and real dialogue among industry leaders. Whether partnering across cities or developing cross-province itineraries, success is shared and multiplied.

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This week on Destination on the Left, we bring you the first special roadshow installment from the Atlantic Canada Showcase 2025 in beautiful Saint John, New Brunswick. In this episode, we dive into the deep-rooted community spirit and storytelling tradition that make Atlantic Canada such a fantastic destination.

You'll hear firsthand from passionate tourism professionals across the region, who will share powerful insights on how authenticity, connection, and collaboration are shaping travel experiences in Atlantic Canada—offering everything from local cuisine and hands-on adventures to heritage attractions and indigenous-led hospitality.

Get ready to discover why Atlantic Canada continues to redefine what it means to experience genuine hospitality.

• Aubrey Reine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-reine-30913062/
• Annick Robichaud-Butland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annick-robichaud-butland-bb436b68/
• Christy Elliott: https://balsamridgeforestdomes.ca/
• Melissa Lansing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-lansing/
• Chelsey Gould: linkedin.com/in/chelsey-gould
• Olivia Morley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-morley-0a2627171/
• Judith LaBrie: ca.linkedin.com/in/judith-labrie-49a46315
• Lois Whitlock: https://wolastoqcasino.com/
• Rebecca Whiffen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-whiffen-a89934320/
• Xavier Gauvin: https://tourismepeninsuleacadienne.ca/en/
• Jordan Jamison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-jamison-nb/
• Marcy Barnes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-barnes-8b98092b/

More and more, travelers crave experiences that feel genuine; not manufactured or packaged, but rooted in the real culture and history of a place. As our guests point out, Atlantic Canada captures the essence of what travelers are seeking in 2025, authenticity, connection, and a sense of place. Whether it's coastal escapes, heritage attractions, or culinary adventures, guests find themselves meeting people with deep roots and big hearts, engaged in traditions that tie them to the land and sea.

This sense of authenticity isn't just a surface feature, it's immersive and personal. As travelers become savvier, the human warmth and raw natural beauty of Atlantic Canada offer lasting impressions that go far beyond the typical tourist checklist.

The region's defining feature isn't just its scenery—it's the spirit of its people. "Family," "welcome," "authentic," and "wonderful" were the most common words repeated by various tourism professionals when asked to sum up the Atlantic Canada Showcase experience. For Annick Robichaud-Butland, the laid-back lifestyle and genuine friendliness are irresistible for those looking to escape the rushed pace of everyday life.

This communal sense goes deeper, too. Leaders like Christy Elliott from Balsam Ridge Forest Domes emphasize personal attention and the importance of treating every guest like family. At King's Landing Historical Settlement, the experience isn't just about history—it's about making personal connections that make visitors feel it's "their King's Landing, not just ours," as Melissa Lansing shares.

Across properties and attractions, the trend is clear: travelers want to feel like locals, supported by genuine interactions, community-driven partnerships, and experiences that foster a true sense of belonging.

Atlantic Canada's tourism boom is built on a foundation of cooperation. Tour operators and destinations frequently cross-sell one another's products and services, ensuring that visitors enjoy fully-rounded itineraries and seamless transitions between provinces. For Annick Robichaud-Butland, collaborating with other receptive tour operators means providing a well-rounded itinerary and boosting economic potential for all partners.

Organizations like Explore New Brunswick also highlight region-wide cooperative marketing efforts, such as the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism—a pitch that unites Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island under one friendly umbrella. This collaborative approach allows the region to punch above its weight, attracting record numbers of buyers and making Atlantic Canada a must-watch destination on the travel map.

As travel recovers post-pandemic, Atlantic Canada is seeing dynamic changes in visitor interests. Regenerative travel, off-season exploration, culinary journeys, heritage tourism, and multi-generational trips are all on the rise. Local experts are adapting by introducing winter offerings, hands-on activities, food-and-beverage experiences, and expanding digital storytelling platforms to reach both Canadian and international audiences.

Repeat guests are increasing, with many super fans returning year after year to deepen their exploration. New partnerships, enhanced seasonal operations, and innovations—like Nordic spas and astro-tourism—are key drivers keeping the region vibrant and relevant.

Above all, Atlantic Canada consistently inspires, welcomes, and connects with travelers in ways that are both meaningful and memorable. Atlantic Canada isn't just a destination—it's a way to feel at home, no matter where you're from.

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more o​f. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Susan Robertson, Possibility Architect at Sharpen Innovation and Harvard instructor. Susan shares why so many of us lose our sense of imagination as we grow up and how we can get it back by embracing curiosity and being open to mistakes. We also discuss how even the wildest brainstorming ideas can lead to real breakthroughs and role-play through a few examples to demonstrate that creativity isn't just for artists; it's something we can all tap into to spark fresh ideas.

• How Susan Robertson transitioned from a career in consumer packaged goods marketing to becoming a leading expert in creative thinking and innovation
• Why many adults lose their sense of creativity as they mature, and what neuroscience and research reveal about unlearning imagination and originality
• What common mental roadblocks, like negativity bias and "yes, but" thinking, prevent teams and individuals from generating new ideas and how to overcome them
• How Susan's GPS (Great Problem Solving) methodology can be applied to brainstorming sessions to unlock more creative and practical solutions
• Why embracing divergent (expanding) and convergent (narrowing) thinking is essential for effective ideation and problem solving during group sessions
• What practical techniques you can use to encourage wild ideas in brainstorming, and how to turn seemingly "crazy" thoughts into innovative, actionable outcomes
• How replacing judgmental language with open-ended "how might we" questions improves collaboration, sparks better ideas, and leads to breakthrough results

Internal psychology, not lack of talent, is often the biggest barrier to fresh thinking. Susan points to our shared cognitive biases, especially "negativity bias," as a prime culprit. This is the tendency for negative experiences or feedback to have a greater impact on our thoughts and behaviors than positive ones.

In a group or brainstorming session, this bias often emerges as "yes, but" thinking. Someone suggests an idea, and the immediate response is to agree superficially while pointing out flaws, the "yes, but" that immediately follows. The thing is, though, if you're never willing to be wrong, you're never going to try anything different or imagine anything that doesn't exist, shooting down the impractical points right away can stifle the kind of out-of-the-box thinking needed for innovation.

Susan shares a solution in the form of her GPS methodology, which stands for Great Problem Solving. Here's how it works:

1. List What's Great – When an idea is proposed, first focus on what's interesting, valuable, or potentially exciting about it, even if the idea seems wild or impractical, make a detailed list of these positives.
2. Frame Problems as Opportunities – Instead of jumping to objections, articulate any concerns as "How might we…?" or "How can we…?" questions. For instance, if an idea seems too expensive, avoid the instinctive "That will cost too much!" Instead, ask, "How might we make this more affordable?"
3. Iterate and Combine – Use this list of positive elements and problem-solving questions to evolve the idea. Change as much as needed to address concerns, while preserving what's new and valuable.

To truly innovate, sometimes you have to go wild on purpose. Susan's favorite technique is to ask everyone to suggest a solution so extreme they'd be fired if it were ever implemented. These over-the-top ideas get creative juices flowing and give psychological permission to break free from conventional limits.

Once those "get fired" ideas are out there, use Susan's GPS (Great Problem Solving) method to extract their most intriguing or practical elements and rework them into real-world solutions.

Susan recommends making a clear distinction between two modes in group innovation: divergence (generating many wild and varied ideas) and convergence (narrowing down and selecting the best options). By keeping these phases separate—and signaling to the group which mode you're in—you encourage participation and avoid shutting down ideas prematurely.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanrobertson/
• Website: https://www.susanrobertsonspeaker.com/

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Since joining the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA) as President & CEO in September of 2018, Bob has focused on NYSTIA's programming, marketing & data analytics, advocacy efforts, and destination stewardship strategies. He has enhanced member communications and collaborative initiatives, facilitated rebranding, and the restatement of vision and purpose for the organization. He worked hand-in-hand with tourism industry members across the state and leadership in Washington, DC, and Albany to coordinate response and recovery efforts during and following the pandemic. Post-pandemic initiatives include the creation of member task force teams on sustainability, workforce development, and higher education.

Today, the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA) is a nonprofit, member-driven organization at the vanguard of tourism destination stewardship and long-term strategic planning.

Tourism is not a goal; it is a means to an end, states Bob. Tourism is a tool to power economic growth, job creation, small business success, community revitalization, increased local and state tax revenues, improved standard of living and quality of life, and pride of place. NYSTIAs membership includes the leadership of New York State County Tourism Promotion Agencies (TPAs), major urban and remote/rural Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), key executives from major attractions (e.g., LEGOLAND NY), museums (e.g., Baseball Hall of Fame, Corning Museum of Glass, Strong Museum of Play), resort hotels and major marketing firms from across the U.S and Canada.

Born in Bayshore, Long Island, Bob Provost LOVES NY, vacationing everywhere from Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands to New York City, Lake Placid to Corning, with stops everywhere in between. He resides with his wife, Pam, just outside Albany, NY, on a rural property in Rensselaer County.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Bob Provost, who shares why he sees the travel and tourism industry as a stimulant for change. We discuss transformational development, stewardship, and the importance of long-term strategic thinking for DMOs. Bob also shares how the New York State Tourism Industry Association is facilitating the discussion around best practices in DEI.

• How creating a bundle of attractions and destinations helped the New York State Tourism Industry Association's recovery and resurgence
• Defining leadership versus management and the importance of both qualities for organizational success
• The importance of long-term strategic thinking and vision as a DMO
• How the New York State Tourism Industry Association utilizes tourism as a tool to achieve economic growth, job creation, and community revitalization
• Outcomes and best practices discussed during the panel on Diversity in Action

In our conversation Bob emphasizes the role of tourism as a catalyst for change, transforming stagnant markets and revitalizing communities. He describes why their focus is not just on short-term goals but also on long-term strategic thinking, envisioning a future state and working collaboratively to achieve it. Through various projects such as building arenas, developing destination marketing organizations, and creating vibrant tourism assets like the National Museum of Play, communities experience lasting positive impact.

Collaboration is at the heart of Bob Provost's approach and he describes how by bringing together diverse industry professionals, sharing expertise, and working towards a common vision, the association has been successful in implementing initiatives that have had a positive effect on the community as a whole.

We discuss the significance of stewardship in destination management and why DMOs have a . responsibility to preserve and enhance both natural and cultural resources, ensuring their sustainable use for future generations. Bob discusses the domino effect, and encourages leaders to exercise vision and work towards shared goals, aligning the interests of all stakeholders.

Recognizing the importance of diversity within the tourism industry, the New York State Tourism Industry Association's focus has shifted to diversifying supply chains, reaching out to different demographic groups, and promoting diversity within communities and organizations. Bob discusses the well-received panel on Diversity in Action and describes how the association is facilitating the discussion, highlighting positive outcomes and signposting to best practices in DEI.

• Website: https://www.nystia.org/
• LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobprovost/
• LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nystia/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NYSTIA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nystia
• Bob's Previous DOTL Episode: https://breaktheicemedia.com/podcasts/bob-provost/

Jackie Dunfee is a seasoned marketing and brand executive with over a decade of experience crafting groundbreaking marketing strategies for brands. Jackie believes in the transformative power of exploring new cultures and is passionate about elevating unique experiences near and far. As a Client Partner, Travel at VDX.tv, Jackie spearheads strategic partnerships with destinations, attractions, and parks, developing solutions to turbocharge engagement and drive visitation. Jackie was previously the Director of Marketing at Tourism Australia in North America. Jackie has lived in Italy and Australia, experienced over 30 countries across the globe, and is excitedly heading to Japan next.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jackie about how to create video-driven experiences within your marketing to stand out from the crowd. Jackie also shares her experiences working with clients to create campaigns that fit all parts of the funnel.

• The importance of making potential travelers immediately associate a certain destination with the visuals they see, creating a direct association
• Why engaging experiences, such as interactive mapping and showcasing specific itineraries, are crucial in trip planning
• Why providing information at different stages of the consumer travel journey is crucial
• Jackie shares how exploring "coopetition" can help people work together for a common goal
• The need for authentic storytelling to drive attention and create a deeper connection with the destination, showcasing what is unique

From her experience in the travel industry, particularly in working with clients, CVVs, DMOs, ski destinations, and resort destinations, Jackie shares invaluable insights about how to effectively market a destination. She emphasizes the importance of differentiation and creating a direct association for potential travelers when promoting a destination by showcasing visual content that resonates with prospective visitors, such as 360-degree videos, allowing viewers to explore the inside of a cruise ship or a cruise room.

Jackie discusses why capturing attention and making a lasting impact in your destination marketing is essential. She digs into how to create engaging experiences and incorporate partner KPIs in video-driven campaigns, and why it's invaluable for travel brands looking to make a powerful impression on their target audiences.

Jackie emphasizes the power of collaboration and partnerships in the travel industry. She shares how she finds points of connection and looks for win-win situations where each partner gets what they need. She mentions the concept of "coopetition," where competitors work together for a common goal, and how her company utilizes creative capabilities and data analysis to show relevant content to prospective visitors.

This collaborative approach allows them to access platforms like Pluto TV and Samsung and leverage data partnerships to improve data quality. Jackie's perspective on collaboration in the travel industry showcases the importance of working together to achieve shared goals and deliver impactful experiences to travelers.

Throughout the episode, Jackie stresses the importance of providing information at all stages of the consumer travel journey. Travelers constantly seek more information and want to feel confident in their choices. Jackie's team's commitment to delivering personalized experiences is so important in telling a destination story that resonates.

• Website: https://www.vdx.tv/industry-solutions/travel
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiedunfee/

I am so excited to announce that my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed, has been released! Help me celebrate this milestone and expand your knowledge about collaboration. Find out more information here: nicolemahoney.com

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/

Born and raised in Michigan, Kevney Dugan grew up playing any sport he could make time for. In the long run, trail running, mountain biking, and fly fishing were the sports that stuck. Fly fishing was the one that offered a working opportunity out of college and took him to Livingston, Montana; San Jose, California; Jackson, Wyoming; and eventually to Bend. Having the opportunity to be the President/CEO of Visit Bend is a dream come true. Rarely does one have the opportunity to take their passions and provide them on such a grand stage to such a wonderful community.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kevney Dugan and discuss how Visit Bend is leveraging influencer marketing to help build awareness and encourage visitation during off-peak times. We also dig into how his team balances the visitors' needs with those of residents by concentrating on workforce development and prioritizing sustainability.

• Kevney's unconventional path into destination marketing
• How Visit Bend has used influencer marketing and why it works so well for them
• Why they've honed their marketing to concentrate on fall, winter, and spring as a great time to visit Bend
• The importance of bringing the community on board when creating a marketing and PR strategy
• How Visit Bend is working hard to solve the workforce issue and help young people see travel and tourism as a viable career path
• Why they created the Bend Sustainability Fund, projects it contributes to, including riverbank restoration and creating new trails, and why it will change the future of the destination

Kevney joins us on the podcast to discuss the evolving landscape of consumer engagement and the power of trusted voices in marketing. We discuss why today's consumers are drawn to information from sources they trust, which means that strategies like influencer marketing are an important consideration for DMOs.

He highlights that collaborating with influencers helps his team share the destination with target demographics. These influencers, using their authentic voices, share their experiences in Bend, leading to significant engagement and even influencing travel decisions based on their experiences.

Our discussion sheds light on the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving, in the wake of unprecedented challenges like those the travel industry faced in 2020. Kevney shares how challenges often spur creativity and innovation, and why, instead of dwelling on the negatives during tough times, it's crucial to use such moments as learning opportunities, aiming to emerge stronger.

We also talk about how Visit Bend is engaging middle school and high school-age students and helping them to think about travel and hospitality as a viable career path. He discusses how they hope it's going to help with the labor shortages they're currently seeing. Kevney emphasizes that workforce development is all about planting that seed early on and that this industry has some amazing opportunities.

• Website: https://www.visitbend.com/
• LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevney-dugan-4a858a8/
• LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visit-bend/

I am so excited to announce that my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed, has been released! Help me celebrate this milestone and expand your knowledge about collaboration. Find out more information here: nicolemahoney.com

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/

Mike Skladony serves as the general manager of the consumer services team at Semcasting. He oversees all travel, entertainment, tourism, higher education, and nonprofit clients. Mike's team of audience developers, account managers, and campaign managers work with clients hand in hand to develop audience solutions and win digital campaign strategies. Mike started his career with Semcasting in 2012, straight out of college and right into a role as Semcasting's first digital account executive.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, Mike Skladony and I discuss how to apply traditional advertising approaches to the digital landscape. We dig into the importance of first-party data and why it plays an important role in both marketing strategy and results. Mike also elaborates on why collaboration and data sharing are essential for successful marketing campaigns.

• The specific challenges in measuring the effectiveness and ROI of programmatic advertising
• How we can apply traditional marketing strategies to the digital landscape
• Why collaboration and data sharing between companies enhances marketing campaigns
• How merging traditional and digital marketing methods helps achieve affordability for consumers
• Effective strategies for optimizing media spend and allocating resources in advertising campaigns

Mike and I discuss how programmatic advertising can be a powerful tool for effectively targeting a specific audience and driving engagement. He highlights the importance of analyzing both behavioral and deterministic characteristics of the target audience to create highly targeted campaigns. By combining data from various sources, including mobile location history and offline deterministic data, advertisers can identify the right audience and deliver personalized ads.

Although Mike cautions that while programmatic advertising may not always directly result in immediate conversions or sales, it plays a significant role in building brand awareness and influencing buying decisions.

During our conversation, we also dived into collaboration and data sharing between companies and how it can improve marketing campaigns by providing a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of the target audience.

When different companies come together and share their first-party data, it allows for a deeper level of insights and segmentation, leading to more precise targeting and messaging. By combining data from various sources, marketers can gain a holistic view of consumer behaviors and preferences, enabling them to create more personalized and effective campaigns.

Sharing data can help optimize media spend by identifying overlap and avoiding duplication in targeting efforts. As we almost always find when talking to our guests on the podcast, we heard from Mike that collaboration and data sharing foster a collaborative ecosystem where companies can leverage each other's strengths and resources to achieve better marketing outcomes.

• Website: https://www.semcasting.com/
• LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeskladony/
• LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/semcasting-inc/

I am so excited to announce that my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed, has been released! Help me celebrate this milestone and expand your knowledge about collaboration. Find out more information here: nicolemahoney.com

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/

Jennifer Barnwell is President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. Launched in November 2020, Curator provides lifestyle hotels the power to compete together while allowing its members the freedom to retain what makes their hotels unique.

Before moving over to Curator, Barnwell was Senior Vice President of Asset Management of Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, a leading real estate investment trust, which was formed and went public in late 2009. She oversaw hotels on the West Coast in San Francisco and Los Angeles and had a team of three Asset Managers reporting to her. Prior to joining Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, Barnwell was Senior Vice President of Peninsula Real Estate LLC, a private real estate investment fund based in New York. While at Peninsula Real Estate LLC, she was involved in all aspects of the fund, including formation, acquisitions, and asset management. Previously, Barnwell was Vice President of Tishman Hotel & Realty LP, where she was involved in Tishman Hotel & Realty's many activities, including acquisitions, management, asset management, development, and brokerage. Jennifer holds a B.S. from The School of Hotel Administration of Cornell University, graduating with Distinction.

Barnwell currently serves on the Board of the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA).

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jennifer Barnwell about the Curator Hotel and Resort Collection, a new idea that was launched in 2020 to serve independent hotels. We discuss how to amplify smaller brands and the creation of curated experiences that are bookable, memorable, and unique.

• How, by harnessing the power of scale and working together, hotels can compete more effectively and achieve better financial results
• Why building collaborative programs requires education, commitment, and awareness
• How collaboration allows independent hotels to negotiate better financial terms and access a wide range of offerings at a lower cost
• The importance of open communication, transparency, and collaboration in running a successful collaborative program
• How Curator helps promote the hotels in their collection with savvy digital marketing and showcasing unique experiences

Through collaboration, independent hotels can pool their knowledge, experiences, and resources, allowing them to compete more effectively with larger chain hotels. Jennifer shares how this sense of togetherness helps to level the playing field and fosters a strong support system within the industry.

By embracing coopetition, independent hotels can find common ground and work towards collective growth, while still maintaining their unique qualities and identities. Through collaboration, they can also offer a huge range of offerings and amenities that cater to different preferences and interests to enhance the overall guest experience.

Jennifer emphasizes the importance of open communication, transparency, and collaboration in building successful partnerships. Through collaboration, independent hotels can amplify their brands, attract more guests, and create a sense of place that sets them apart in the industry.

By collaborating with independent hotels, Curator can curate and showcase experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind to make their guests' experiences even better. These experiences can range from local culinary adventures, immersive cultural activities, vibrant art exhibits, and outdoor adventures. They help provide guests with memorable and authentic moments that really can't be replicated elsewhere, making sure that every stay within the Curator network is a fabulous experience.

• Website: https://www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com/
• LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-barnwell-a8689ba/
• LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/curator-hotel-and-resort-collection

I am so excited to announce that my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed, has been released! Help me celebrate this milestone and expand your knowledge about collaboration. Find out more information here: nicolemahoney.com

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/

Ariel Azoff is the Executive Director of Tourism and Brand Partnerships at Atlas Obscura, a media and experiences company dedicated to sharing the world's hidden wonders. Ariel's work has spanned media, tourism, social enterprise, sustainable fashion, government, and international development. She joined Atlas Obscura in 2017 to head up the company's DMO campaigns, bringing her professional media experience and personal passion for travel and sustainability to the role. An assimilated Brooklynite, Ariel is also a certified NYC Sightseeing Guide and, in her spare time, designs and leads women's history tours of the city.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Ariel Azoff about how off-the-beaten-track destinations have fueled the growth of Atlas Obscura into a global digital media company. We talk about identifying destinations that spark curiosity and wonder, and Ariel shares more about some of the out-of-the-ordinary collaborations with destinations they are enjoying right now.

• How Ariel's diverse background in media, tourism, and sustainable fashion influenced her work at Atlas Obscura
• Why people are seeking out unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences right now and how COVID-19 has impacted this trend
• The collaboration between Atlas Obscura and Brand USA for the TV show "Small Town Big Story"
• How Atlas Obscura works with DMOs to create engaging and informative content about destinations
• How Atlas Obscura has evolved from a blog to a global digital media company providing not only experiences but online courses and print projects

One example of Atlas Obscura's creative and collaborative partnerships is their collaboration with Missouri Tourism to write a feature article about the haunted Missouri State Penitentiary. This partnership perfectly shows off the adventurous spirit and unique storytelling approach of Atlas Obscura. By working closely with Missouri Tourism, Atlas Obscura was able to tap into the local expertise and deep knowledge of the destination, ensuring an authentic and compelling narrative.

Together, they crafted an article that delves into the chilling history and paranormal legends surrounding the destination, providing readers with a glimpse into the eerie and mysterious side of the state. This collaboration not only highlights the significance of Atlas Obscura's dedication to showcasing offbeat destinations but also emphasizes their commitment to working hand-in-hand with destination experts to bring these hidden gems to light. By merging their expertise and resources, Atlas Obscura and Missouri Tourism were able to create a compelling feature that entices travelers to explore the haunted corridors of this historic penitentiary and experience the spine-tingling allure of Missouri's darker side.

Ariel shares how as Atlas Obscura's popularity grew, so did their ambition to expand their offerings. They recognized the need to provide more immersive and interactive experiences for their community of curious travelers and explorers. This led to the creation of unique experiences, such as visiting the iconic Times Square ball or having a firsthand encounter with wolves at a bar. These experiences allowed travelers to engage with their surroundings in unexpected and memorable ways, further capturing the spirit of discovery that Atlas Obscura is known for.

Integrating destination marketing into mainstream entertainment has numerous benefits for both destinations and the entertainment industry. By weaving travel experiences and unique destinations into television shows, movies, podcasts, or even fictional narratives, audiences are transported to these unusual locations and it not only sparks curiosity in viewers, but also offers destinations the opportunity to showcase their hidden gems to a wider audience. In turn, the entertainment industry gains access to a fresh and unique angle for their content.

• Website: https://www.atlasobscura.com/
• LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielazoff/
• LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlas-obscura/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlasobscura/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/atlasobscura
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlasobscura/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/atlasobscura

I am so excited to announce that my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed, has been released! Help me celebrate this milestone and expand your knowledge about collaboration. Find out more information here: nicolemahoney.com

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/

Susan Namulindwa is the founding Director of Girls Run Period, an organization focused on Advocacy for ending Period poverty and women's rights. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Maama Watali and Africa Trade Desk and the Vice President Canada with the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business. Susan has long standing expertise in policy, partnerships, strategy, outreach, and communications, as well as an experienced fundraiser, presenter, and trainer. She is an advocate for the use of inclusive trade to lift communities out of poverty.

Susan is very involved in her community in Canada and Africa and the broader International African Diaspora through various community development initiatives on gender equality, environment, connectivity, food security, diversity, and inclusion. She is passionate about women and girls' leadership, well-being, and development.

On this episode of Destination on the Left, Susan Namulindwa dives into her passion for creating trade and business opportunities for Africa and why aid without a relationship is ineffective. She shares why and how she started Girls Run Period, which is focused on ending period poverty in Africa, and how that led her to build world-changing collaborations.

• Susan shares more about how Girls Run Period combines running with addressing period poverty in Africa, focusing on empowerment, collaboration, and sustainable tourism
• The importance of business relationships and trade partnerships for Africa's development
• Why Susan and her team entered the UNWTO Tourism Challenge, and how it helped them with aligning their idea with the goal of bringing tourism to small rural communities
• Some of the amazing events Girls Run Period has organized, including a cross country meet with thousands of attendees and the support of world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge
• Their future plans supported by Athletic Kenya and the local and national governments, that are helping them expand their impact and empower even more girls

Susan shares her passion for creating trade and business opportunities for Africa and discusses how Girls Run Period aims to end period poverty through running events. She talks more about how she came up with the idea for creating an event that would get women excited about participating in a marathon in the Rift Valley and how her own enthusiasm for running led her to link the cause of empowering girls and women in Africa with funding local businesses to provide sanitary wear so girls don't miss out on crucial years of education.

Susan shares why collaboration lies at the heart of Girls Run Period's success. Through partnerships with running clubs, athletic organizations, schools, and health professionals, the program is able to create a network of support that extends beyond running.

This collaborative approach ensures that girls receive not only the necessary supplies but also mentorship, health services, and educational opportunities. By working together, Girls Run Period is able to maximize its impact and create lasting change in the communities it serves.

Girls Run Period combines two powerful forces – running and tourism – to create a positive impact. Participants not only get to run in iconic destinations like Kenya's Rift Valley but also support the cause by paying fees and donations. This unique approach promotes sustainable tourism and helps generate funds for the initiative's important work.

Susan discusses trade over aid, and why she is a strong advocate for trade partnerships that benefit both Africa and its global partners. By supporting local entrepreneurs who produce reusable sanitary pads, Girls Run Period empowers girls and women while contributing to environmental sustainability. This approach aligns with the sustainable development goals and showcases the trade and business opportunities available in Africa.

• Website: https://www.girlsrunperiod.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlsRunPeriod/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/GirlsRunPeriod
• Marathon Campaign: https://www.girlsrunperiod.org/marathon-campaign/
• Awake Tourism Challenge: https://www.unwto.org/unwto-awake-tourism-challenge
• The Awake competition attracted more than 2,000 entrants from 120 countries worldwide. The most submissions were from Europe, the Americas and Africa, followed by Asia and the Pacific and the Middle East. From these, an expert jury selected 30 finalists and then 15 winners: https://www.unwto.org/news/unwto-announces-winning-start-ups-for-awake-tourism-challenge
• UNWTO Sustainable Development Goals: https://sdgs.un.org/goals

I have exciting news! I'm publishing my first book, Stronger Together: Building World-Changing Collaborations that Succeed. I'd love for you to join my very first book launch team to help me reach my goal of 50 Amazon reviews in the month of September. Go here to join: https://nicolemahoney.com/#join!

We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!: https://breaktheicemedia.com/rating-review/