Explore every episode of the podcast Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15

Dive into the complete episode list for Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	Generate Leads? FIT’s with non-preferred? Confusing Booking Platforms?	12 Dec 2025	00:30:58
This week for the Friday 15, we've got a special in-house HAR special with Jenn Myers and Rita Perez! So much to catch up on, plus some questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I’m a relatively new advisor (I started about a year and a half ago) and I am trying to understand the concept of “leads”. My host agency (which I love!) does not have a lead generation program, and I would really like to see how a lead works and practice using my training and skills with a mock lead. Do you know of any programs or practice websites/workbooks for this? Also, in the future how might I generate real leads on my own? Thank you for everything you all do! - Lisa I've signed up with a host agency, and done the online education, but I am still pretty confused about how to create FIT trips through the host. For years I have run my own trips and have strong relationships with specific hotels, lodges, transportation companies and tour guides. There are specific hotels and lodges that I always use when I book trips. Now that I have my own company and a host agency, I am realizing that none of my contacts/hotels, etc. are used or even findable on the host agency's site. When I did my initial call with the host agency, they said it wasn't a problem to book non preferred suppliers, but now I am not getting any info about how to book these hotels and lodges that I want to for upcoming trips. I can book these hotels and lodges with an OTA or directly with the hotel or lodge, but am I then liable as the supplier since I didn't book through the host agency? I was told by the attorney who I hired to do my Terms and Conditions that it was important for me to book everything through the host agency for my protection, but I am not sure how to do that. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you from another Minnesotan! So grateful for your work with new advisors!! - Heather I'm a new advisor and the host agency's booking platform is soooo complicated! I'm still trying to make it through the training. Thinking about switching to another host. Are booking platforms so complicated in general? How can you find out? - Marsha RESOURCES: ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-leads ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaning ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software
	What to Expect With Hosts? LLC’s? Partnerships?	05 Dec 2025	00:24:29
This week for the Friday 15, it’s the RETURN OF STEPH LEE as she cohosts with Lori Speers of Levarte, now a KHM travel company. So much to catch up on, plus some questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I am wanting to transition from working fulltime at home for my current job, to owning my own homebased travel business. I still need to keep my fulltime salary while my travel business ramps up. I have been researching into host agencies, and think this is the way I will go. If I do choose to go this path, what should I expect? Will I have a specific contact that will help me (hold my hand) while I get started? - Kristen Question regarding the registration of my travel agency: I'm French, I'm thinking of being hosted by a host agency based in the U.S and therefore register my agency as a LLC in the U.S since it's the easiest model for foreigners. Are there any specificity I need to be aware of? For example, what lawyer should I use? - Lohan How do you start a partnership with someone? Someone wants to "get into" travel with me. I specialize in cruises. She has done alot of all Inclusives, been to several destination weddings so that would be hers. What's your thoughts on this? - Denise RESOURCES: ➡️Great article from KHM about 6 questions you should ask when searching for the right host agency - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/6-questions-when-searching-for-host-agency ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-lawyers
	FIT best practices? Costs to join a host? Niche and make money?	21 Nov 2025	00:27:53
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions. We’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I'm very confused and overwhelmed by the FIT "best practice" for travel advisors. When advisors put together a/an FIT, do they always use tour suppliers (like Classic Vacations/Project Expeditions, etc), or make it themselves by reaching out directly to tour operators (if price is more favorable to client), or just patch things together with a DMC? How do advisors find DMCs if they don't have connections? Thank you in advance. With hosts, what start up costs can I expect when joining. Is it better to join one that charges a flat monthly rate, or pay a lot every year or a one-time fee? There's got to be setbacks for each one, I'd imagine. Any other costs with a host I should consider? How do I determine what my niche is? I feel like I will only make money if I sell luxury. RESOURCES: ➡️What is an FIT - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaning ➡️We have a wonderful article from our friends at TPI they wrote earlier this year on the ‘Real Costs of Starting an Agency’ and they give a complete breakdown, including host fees and other fees to consider - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tpi-q1-2025 ➡️Finding a Niche - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche
	Help with BDMs! Group Bookings? Commission Splits?	14 Nov 2025	00:22:35
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST, and you know it’s gonna be good. Join us! I worked as an independent contractor for a brick-and-mortar agency before covid. BDMs visited us regularly with updates, and stayed to chat. Their presence drew attendees and raised my credibility. Unfortunately, that agency has the worst split in the business. I switched to a host agency with a much better split and no fees or minimum sales, but they're on the opposite coast. Now my BDMs, whom I've never met, are on the other side of the country and aren't about to co-host events or invite me to anything. BDMs based near me can't help because they work in territories. I never sold much with the new host and basically went dormant. Now, I'm planning to relaunch. However, the lack of BDM contact and support is paralyzing. How do the thousands of agents working in far-flung locations deal with this? Those I've talked with don't seem to realize the value of BDMs, both personally and professionally. Any advice? - Linda I am just starting out as a cruise specialist agent. I have seen other agents promoting group bookings that appear to be created by them with lower than advertised rates and extra perks. Can you explain how this works and the pros/cons of this? I know I am not ready for this yet, but I am very interested in how someone gets started with this and how it works. Thanks, - Travel Dad Matt I have been in the industry for just over 2 years working part time while I build up my business. I am curious about host agency commission splits and why some host agencies have higher commission splits. I notice there is a range of agency commission splits 70/30, 80/20 or 90/10. Right now I am at a 70/30 split and I wonder if this is an average commission split? I wonder for host agencies with higher commission splits is it because they offer more perks or benefits than host agencies with a 90/10 split. - Michelle RESOURCES: ➡️Talking more about BDM’s when switching hosts - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/switching-host-agencies-5-things-to-consider ➡️Group booking tips directly from other travel advisors - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/group-booking-tips-travel-advisors-agents ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️Commission splits - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-commission-plan-comparison-calculator
	FAM trips? Switching Hosts for more support? Name & Niche?	07 Nov 2025	00:15:12
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Betsy of Uniglobe Travel Center. We’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I'm a disabled travel agent just starting. I'm nervous about Fam trips. how can I explain or how can a host agency help me go on Fam trips - Michelle I am thinking about switching to another host agency because the one I am with really does not reach out to ask me why my sales are low. It is very difficult to find clients, I would like to sign up with a host agency that will reach out to their members to help them to figure were they are struggling and be more involved. And do I lose all my credentials that I already with some vendors. I have completed my different trainings and courses? I am just stepping into starting a travel agency at the very early stages and still working what it would look like for me. When considering a niche and a business name, I suspect having the niche in the business name can help, but would it cause issues if I wanted to pivot or expand to a different niche at some point in the future and possibly require a business name change and rebranding challenges. Do you have any advice or should I just worry about the future in the future. RESOURCES: ➡️ More about FAM trips https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip ➡️We also had a wonderful guest named Becky Kirby on our other Podcast, travel Agent Chatter where she goes into detail about accessible travel and some great links depending on what you’re specifically looking for - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/becky-kirby-the-greater-go#sts=Accessible%20Travel%20Tips ➡️We have an article about Travel Agent Leads, how those programs work, what to expect and alternatives to lead programs (like working alongside associations) - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-leads ➡️6 easy tips for choosing your travel agency name - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-names
	Using Points? New at Booking! Platforms for Booking?	31 Oct 2025	00:24:56
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Robin and Jennifer of TiqueHQ. We’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! 1. I am just starting out but I had a question about credit card reward points. If a client has points for flights or hotels with a particular credit card. Am I able to book travel for them using their points or a combination of points and money and still receive commission? 2. I'm just starting out in the business. I'm about three months in and I'm working on setting the foundation of my business. I'm completing trainings, learning about suppliers, listening to podcasts, creating a logo and social media, along with plenty of other items on my to-do! I was even able to complete my first booking for some of my family! With that said, I'm worried that because I don't have more of a legitimate business, it's going to be difficult to complete bookings with any of the leads I get. What do you suggest I do to help build up my business and get potential clients to trust in me as their travel advisor when I'm so new? 3. I'm a new advisor and the host agency's booking platform is soooo complicated! I'm still trying to make it through the training. Thinking about switching to another host. Are booking platforms so complicated in general? How can you find out? RESOURCES: ➡️Charging fees - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-guide-to-charging-fees ➡️Free Resources: http://tiquehq.com/launch & tiquehq.com/tech-stack ➡️Our software directories - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software ➡️HAR*Wired Day 4 demo day, worth taking a watch to see them all back to back so you can get a better idea - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pfEi73sRE0
	(229) Visibility as new advisor? Fear of Marketing? How to Market?	24 Oct 2025	00:22:36
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Kelli Hayes Smith of Wanderlust Campus. We’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! How to get visibility and to get my first clients to work with me and trust me as a junior travel advisor? - Julie How do you face your fear about marketing your travel business on social media if you are an introvert? - Tracy New advisor here, just starting out-I’m wondering if it’s possible to be successful in getting leads through online marketing only, and not tap into friends and family or local community? RESOURCES: ➡️Our wonderful partners at Travel Edge wrote an article in our blog about the Ultimate Guide to Marketing your NEW Travel Business - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-edge-q3-2024#sts=Build%20a%20marketing%20calendar: ➡️There are many different tools you can use to help you, we have some in our directories listed here - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/social-media-marketing ➡️We also have a great article about Social Media 101 from one of our hosts Nexion here - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/nexion-q3-2021 ➡️We have a complete guide and comparison chart on what leads are, programs, what to expect from programs and questions to ask about agent lead programs if you want additional support here - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-leads
	Supplier network? Where to start? Changing commissions?	10 Oct 2025	00:27:15
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions. We’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I realise that every Host agency has a different network of suppliers. Even though I understand that I'm not supposed to go out of network if working in their system, if I am able to keep my own name and advertise as my own company, am I allowed to book with different networks of suppliers? I feel a little overwhelmed with so much information and access out there that my brain is freezing. I don't know where to start off so I am doing all at the same time and freaking out. Do you have a "step list" of what to do first that you would recommend? - Build a website, contracts, forms, services guide, social media, trainings (do I prioritize supplier trainings or destinations?) I have a business and social media account set up and going but I am a mess behind it all. Can an agency change your commission level without notifying you or sending you a new contract to sign? Shouldn't there be some kind of agreement or acknowledgement from the agent before that happens? Then what if a host changes to a monthly fee. Again shouldn’t there be a new contract or the option to leave and take your business. RESOURCES: ➡️We have a great article on What is a Preferred Supplier - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier ➡️We have a great article about 10 steps to starting a travel agency - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/starting-a-travel-agency-from-home. We link to many other snippets from other podcasts, along with templates available complimentary to you and any required accreditation information ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week
	Starting my journey? Questioning my host? Niches?	03 Oct 2025	00:20:43
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Jenn Lee of Vacation Planners and TPI! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! Hello all! I am at the start of my journey to becoming an independent travel advisor who will join a host agency. What are some of the ways that travel advisors obtain health insurance? I did see that ASTA members have access to their insurance partner but that this varies by state. I'm in Indiana if that helps. Thanks so much! I am really finding your podcast helpful. - Cindy I’ve been with my host for about four months and I’m not loving the experience. I feel like I’m on my own when it comes to marketing, the website they provide is very basic, and the trainings aren’t great. On top of that, I pay a $40 monthly fee, a $180 startup fee, and they take a 70/30 commission split. I do appreciate that I get access to a lot of partners, which is a plus, but overall it feels like I’m paying a lot for very basic tools. My question is: is this experience pretty typical for newer advisors with host agencies, or is it a sign that I may need to start looking elsewhere? (Note: she has come back saying that we flagged to host as an MLM/Hybrid that she’s a part of) - Keeping this Anonymous Are there Host Agencies that specialize in wellness travel? Are there host agencies that specialize in Faith-based or Religious travel as a main thing or sub- niche, OR at least have options to book through certain faith based suppliers. - Warren and Jason RESOURCES: ➡️We have a full article about travel MLM’s and what you need to know - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-mlms ➡️We will also link to our host directories where if the host fills the requirements of being a travel MLM, we ensure it’s clear to you all - https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts ➡️Still figuring out your Niche? Here’s our step-by-step guide - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche ➡️In our article on how to find the best host agency, we have a downloadable doc that compares the hosts and in one of the columns we outline the hosts’s Niche/specialty that can help guide you - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/legacydriventravelpros ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/vacation-planners ➡️https://vacationplannersfranchise.com/
	Host in home state? Social Media? Best Host Agency?	26 Sep 2025	00:17:10
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Jackie Friedman of Nexion Travel Group! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! When looking for a host agency is it better to find one in your home state? or it doesn’t really matter? - Michelle Hello! I'm an aspiring travel advisor and keen to better understand how to tackle social media. I have my own personal Instagram account that I've been using for years to share content from my own travels, so I'm wondering what the pros and cons would be of utilizing my existing account and community versus starting a brand-focused one from scratch. Do you have advice on how to set myself up for success? - Emily I'm a new travel agent. What is the best host to work with which has great systems, great support and a fair commission split. How do I determine all this? - Debbie RESOURCES: ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-map - we have a locator map if this is something that’s important to you ➡️Nexion actually hosted a full webinar with us last year on ‘Social Media Strategies for Travel Professionals’ - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2024/social-media-strategies-for-travel-professionals-8cabaf2f-8c7e-4a6e-993b-c51de2566da1-d00de365-7592-4b30-b514-06aeed33c8f2 ➡️We have an article that goes through finding the best host agency for you in 5 steps - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency ➡️Go check out our host directory and do comparisons, submit questions or reach out directly to the hosts for a meeting to learn more - https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Call for Host Week Speakers - https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/speakers
	Advertising Tours? Software Overwhelm! Accessible Luxury?	19 Sep 2025	00:19:58
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Lori Speers of Levarte Travel! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! When I'm a vendor at festivals a few times a year advertising my travel agency, booth visitors repeatedly ask what tours are available besides the flyers I have on the table that show guided trips of a particular country with prices. I always have to stress to them that I can design a customized trip or a FIT and that we are travel advisors. At that point they have a confused look on their face and don't realize that we can do that besides booking a fully guided tour. What would you recommend so that they understand more clearly my services to them as a travel advisor? Should I remove the flyers that show guided trips? Should I place a flyer plainly in sight with bullet points what I can do for them? - Marc Now that I've been in business for over 5 years, I am buried in data! I was checking out your travel agency software recommendations but am quite overwhelmed. The type of travel booking I do is not for leisure, I actually book for disaster relief. We are a 24-7 travel management company and we book on very short notice as well as very high volume. I need a software where I can store all of my bookings and can easily enter guests information quickly. I need to be able to track each specific event, room rate, savings, no shows, cancellations, etc. I would also like to be able to check inventory levels for multiple hotels. There I times I get requests for 20-100 rooms and I have to call each hotel to check availability. I'm not sure if GDS access allows me to view inventory on a wider scale. I've been running my business day by day as work comes and now it's time to really get organized and spend on tools that will help me work smarter not harder. I'm considering focusing on Luxury, Family, and Accessible Travel and I was thinking of positioning myself as: "Luxury & Accessible Travel for Families and Beyond.” Before I move forward with that, I wanted to get some feedback. Does that phrasing make sense, or does it feel like too much? I'm open to refining it. To give a bit of background: We work with Virtuoso which has opened the door to the world of luxury travel for me. I'm constantly inspired by the potential to create exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime experiences I absolutely love it! I've always planned travel for my own family, which is what inspired me to join the industry. I also have personal experience with accessibility needs my son has sensory sensitivities, and I have family members who use wheelchairs so accessible travel is a cause close to my heart. Do you think it's okay to market myself across these three areas, or would it be better to focus on just one? - Cassie RESOURCES: ➡️We have a great blog piece on ‘What do travel advisors do?’ which outline many advisor privileges that aren’t available to the public - this could be very helpful to you - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-do-travel-agents-do ➡️ Definitely worth going to check-out our Travel Technology Directories - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software ➡️ We have an article on Tips for Choosing your Travel Agency Name - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-names ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open...
	SOT Licenses? Last-minute travel? Certifications? Changing Commissions?	12 Sep 2025	00:19:57
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Meredith Calloway of Gifted Travel Network! I am in the process of forming an LLC for a travel agency based in California. However, I do not currently have a Seller of Travel (SOT) license. I was wondering if you host agencies allow independent agents (that are members of that host) to operate under their SOT license. - Zack Can a TA niche focus on last-minute travel or should a TA focus on last minute travel? - Diana What do you think is the most valuable certification. Travel Institute offers the CTA, CLIA has certifications as well as my Consortium offers Leisure Travel and Luxury travel certificates. Follow-up: Are there any certifications you would recommend completing prior to seeking out being a part of a host agency? Can an agency change your commission level without notifying you or sending you a new contract to sign? Shouldn't there be some kind of agreement or acknowledgement from the agent before that happens? Then what if a host changes to a monthly fee. Again, shouldn’t there be a new contract or the option to leave and take your business. My partner and I are experiencing this and could use some advice. RESOURCES: ➡️We have a full article about SOT licenses and how they work and when/why you would need them - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license ➡️ List of travel industry lawyers and contact information: https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-lawyers ➡️How to find a travel niche - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche ➡️ https://www.giftedtravelnetwork.com/the-travel-business-unpacked-podcast ➡️We have an article that outlines the different certifications that are available, so you an compare based on the niche you’re looking at or the certifications that are a legal requirement for you to sell travel - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-certification ➡️At HAR we have our 7DS Course which really focuses on selling up your agency, so the first big step - how do you set-up your business - https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Call for Host Week Speakers - https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/speakers
	Commission Timing? Charging Fees? Switching Hosts?	05 Sep 2025	00:21:54
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Carolyn Orf of KHM Travel! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I understand some suppliers don't pay the host until after the travel date, but I've found some suppliers pay the month after the sale or after the final payment it's made. I also know some host agencies pay out to their agents weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly. I'm curious to know the industry standard for how soon after receipt of commission from the supplier would a host agency pay the independent agent. I would love continued conversations about how to execute charging fees when different trips take such a different amount of time. Some people know what they want - some don't. I've been experimenting and every person I've told an hourly fee (I've tested it at $75 and $100 and gave my estimated timeline, they've passed on my services.) So, I haven't gotten any fees in the 6 months I've been working on this. I've had some great success, but I have also wasted a ton of time with people shopping me and then taking my itinerary and booking it elsewhere to save $20. (especially on FIT trips) I've got to take control of my time and energy and make sure I'm spending time with the right people. But I have no idea how to actually implement fees and what a reasonable rate/package is. And I don't want to scare off people who could become great clients. What is the process of switching host agencies? I am unsure if my current one is a good fit, but I do have trips booked while using them, and am unsure if I can bring them to a new host. RESOURCES: ➡️This article will be very helpful, it’s the full picture of ‘travel agent commissions explained - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-commissions ➡️We have a full article on commission plans and differences between using a host v not and different hosts - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-commission-plan-comparison-calculator ➡️We have a full guide to charging fees - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-guide-to-charging-fees ➡️From our annual advisor report, last year 20% of a hosted advisor’s income was accounted for by fees, so not something to sleep on - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-market-research-reports ➡️We have an article on switching host agencies and the questions you should be asking your new potential host - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/gifted-q1-2020 ➡️5 main things to consider when switching hosts - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/switching-host-agencies-5-things-to-consider ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Call for Host Week Speakers - https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/speakers
	Personal Travel? Accessible Travel? Client and Advisor Perks?	29 Aug 2025	00:20:50
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with April Swales of Uniglobe! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! I am wondering how it works if I book flights and hotel stays separately for myself? I typically travel for work within Canada and also to San Diego for pleasure to see family. How does commission work for that type of travel? Hi, I just passed my tap certification. I'm interested in helping people with accessible travel .I'm disabled myself. Where's a good place to start. for example, host agencies etc I keep noticing offers from my host agency/consortia/vendors that would provide perks for my clients and bonus commissions for me.. after it is too late to claim them. How do other agents manage the flood of consumer and agent incentives so they can make recommendations that are good for their clients and good for them? RESOURCES: ➡️I would recommend checking out this wonderful company called ‘Wheel the World’ to learn more about what they do and how they do it with regards to Accessible Travel as that’s their focus - https://wheeltheworld.com/ ➡️We also had a wonderful guest named Becky Kirby on our other Podcast, travel Agent Chatter where she goes into detail about accessible travel and some great links depending on what you’re specifically looking for - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/becky-kirby-the-greater-go#sts=Accessible%20Travel%20Tips ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Call for Host Week Speakers - https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/speakers ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates
	My own brand? Multiple hosts? Choosing the right host?	22 Aug 2025	00:20:06
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST, and you know it’s gonna be good. Join us! I don’t want to go out on my own and get an IATA and all that comes with that. But I also don’t want my host agency’s name on things like the client’s cruise documents, final travel documents, etc. I’m building my own brand that my clients know and trust, so seeing a different travel agency name at the top of their paperwork is too confusing for the clients and undermines my branding efforts. Is there a workaround for this? If you sign with some hosts and there is no non-compete... can you also sign with another host agency in order to maintain Virtuoso benefits? I am switching from a home based agency and am curious if it’s possible to have two hosts at once. I don't want to lose my Virtuoso benefits, but a lot of the Virtuoso agencies are not a full fit for me. I am looking for a host agency and I have never had one before. I have compared a tonne on your site and I am feeling overwhelmed. What are the main things I should be looking for in a good host agency? RESOURCES: ➡️What is an IATA or IATAN, in case anyone in our audience is interested - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/iata-number ➡️ We have an article about belonging to more than one host - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️I am going to link to our ‘getting started’ where we outline a couple videos and articles if you’re just getting started to find the perfect host for you and travel advisor basics - https://hostagencyreviews.com/resources#articles ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️Consortia directories - https://hostagencyreviews.com/consortia
	Hosts for cruising? Overwhelmed at the beginning? FAM etiquette?	15 Aug 2025	00:24:28
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna co-hosts with April Swales of Uniglobe Travel Center! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST, and you know it’s gonna be good. Join us! -What is the best host agency for cruises? - Susan -I recently joined a host agency and I do a ton of research but somehow I feel more lost every day. I feel a little overwhelmed with so much information and access out there that my brain is freezing. I don't know where to start off so I am doing all at the same time and freaking out. Do you have a "step list" of what to do first that you would recommend? - Build a website, contracts, forms, services guide, social media, trainings (do I prioritize supplier trainings or destinations?) I have a business and social media account set up and going but I am a mess behind it all. - Camila -Not a question but a request... PLEASE discuss agent etiquette on FAMs. From the unwritten rules of don't sit on the bed or use a toilet to the obvious ones of show up on time, don't solicit guests, etc. There seems to be a lack of awareness and understanding lately. - Becky RESOURCES: ➡️Travel Agent Chatter episode: Rocky Dimico, Flights and Fables https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/rocky-dimico-flights-and-fables ➡️ listing of our host profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-lawyers#sts=List%20of%20Travel%20Industry%20Attorneys ➡️What are FAM’s and how to find them - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip#sts=How%20much%20do%20travel%20agent%20FAMs%20cost? ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	OTA asking for marketing advice! Which HA for low fees + great training? How DO you handle your dual roles, Jenn Lee?	08 Aug 2025	00:23:03
This week for the Friday 15, Steph co-hosts with Jenn Lee of Vacation Planners and TPI fame! This week we’ve got a bunch of great questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST, and you know it’s gonna be good. Join us! 1. I understand this podcast typically focuses on questions from advisors, but as a global OTA, we’re working to completely revamp our program for travel advisors in the US this year. While we already have several advisors from different host agencies using our services, our goal is to establish preferred partnerships with these agencies. I’ve been engaging with various host agencies to communicate the benefits of leveraging a world experience marketplace, but I’m not confident that I’m fully addressing what they truly value or need. What are the key elements or messaging strategies you’d suggest to resonate with host agencies and demonstrate the unique value of a preferred partnership with us? —Angelo Z. (Get Your Guide) 2. Suggestions for a host agency with least amount of fees and great training program with marketing. –Shelly P. 3. Tell us about the move to have you take a dual role of president and CMO of dual brands. What does this mean for the companies and your advisors? –Steph Lee! RESOURCES: ➡️Travel Agent Chatter episode: Rocky Dimico, Flights and Fables https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/rocky-dimico-flights-and-fables ➡️Tech Week! Registration is open for HAR*Wired! \| Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️Webinar: Growing Pains Got You Down? Let's Figure Out What's Next for Your Travel Business: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zstBlfxWabc ➡️All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier) ➡️Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Travel Insurance? Cancel for any reason? New trends?	01 Aug 2025	00:17:32
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna and Steph are thrilled to join forces with the Arch Roamright team. They'll take on a slew of questions about travel insurance this Friday at 12 pm CST, so don't miss this one! Sometimes clients say they’re already covered through their credit card. How do I explain the differences without sounding sales-y? I often get questions about ‘cancel for any reason’ coverage , when is it truly worth recommending, and how do I explain the limitations? Are there any new trends in travel insurance we should know about, things like adventure travel, cruises, or luxury trips. Where or how is coverage evolving? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ We have a great Travel Agent Chatter Podcast where Karen talks about how she sells Cancel for Any Reason and how to use it as a sales tool. I will like the podcast in the comments for you all - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/travel-agent-chatter-vol-5-karen-hurlbut-hurlbut-travel ➡️ Another way to find out more about HAR*Wired (Tech Week)- https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️ We have another Podcast, more longform called Travel Agent Chatter where we interview actual advisors and we often talk about travel insurance - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter
	He turned a love of D&D into $30k bookings. $35 events = 5-figure bkgs. Meet Rocky.	29 Jul 2025	01:56:46
**** Transcript, Images + Show Notes: https://har.news/vol33 **** What happens when you combine a Lord of the Rings obsession, a dragon-themed jeep, and a charismatic entrepreneur? You get Rocky Dimico, the owner of Flights and Fables - one of the most uniquely branded travel agencies we've ever featured! Rocky went full-time from day one after a life-changing trip to New Zealand sparked his "aha" moment. But this isn't just another niche story - it's a masterclass in building a brand that people can't ignore. We're talking dragon logos on Jeeps, black tents with gold dragons at vendor events complete with a travel advisor dressed as a wizard, and a business name that came from surveying his Dungeons & Dragons community. You'll hear how Rocky's gone from zero to hero in just 20 months, selling 6 Lord of the Rings themed trips to New Zealand , expanding into anime/Japan travel, and booking his first groups. His vendor event strategy alone has generated multiple five-figure bookings from $35 investments. But here's what makes this episode special: Rocky's approach to partnerships, networking, and community building that every entrepreneur can steal. From his Chamber of Commerce connections that led to 4 media articles, to his creative partnerships with map makers and IV therapy businesses, to finding a mentor advisor as his agency grew. Whether you're looking for inspiration on niche development, want to see what fearless branding looks like, or need ideas for finding clients through in-person events, this episode will knock your socks off. Plus, stick around to hear about Rocky's big dreams for brick-and-mortar fantasy travel shops in downtown areas across the country and how he successfully found a travel advisor mentor.
	Tech Trends? AI Practical Use? Staying Current?	25 Jul 2025	00:29:40
This week for the Friday 15, Shayna and Steph are thrilled to join forces with Dan Christian, fellow podcaster and host of the excellent Travel Trends podcast. They'll take on a slew of questions about tech and AI this Friday at 12 pm CST, so don't miss this one! There are so many new travel tech tools out there, it can feel overwhelming to choose what’s actually worth investing in. How do you recommend an advisor figure out which tools will really help their business grow? One of my biggest headaches is dealing with last-minute changes, like when flights get cancelled or clients want to add something at the last minute. What are your top tips for staying organized and keeping clients in the loop without losing my sanity? I feel like my tech stack is all over the place, a CRM here, itinerary builder there, emails somewhere else. How important is it to have tools that integrate well with each other, and how do you know where to start? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software ➡️ Another way to find out mor about Tech Week (new fun name being announced next week)- https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️ Register for AI Summit - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2025/travel-trends-ai-summit-2025 (this includes a discount code for HAR at the bottom) ➡️ We have another Podcast, more longform called Travel Agent Chatter where we interview actual advisors and we often talk about tech stacks they use - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter
	Tech tools? Last minute changes? Tech Stack?	18 Jul 2025	00:24:22
Shayna and Steph team up with Stephanie Gries from Travefy to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out Travefy’s profile here: Travefy \| Host Agency Reviews. Here are the awesome questions they’ll tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST! There are so many new travel tech tools out there, it can feel overwhelming to choose what’s actually worth investing in. How do you recommend an advisor figure out which tools will really help their business grow? One of my biggest headaches is dealing with last-minute changes, like when flights get cancelled or clients want to add something at the last minute. What are your top tips for staying organized and keeping clients in the loop without losing my sanity? I feel like my tech stack is all over the place, a CRM here, itinerary builder there, emails somewhere else. How important is it to have tools that integrate well with each other, and how do you know where to start? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ Another way to find out more, is we do have our Travel Tech Week, like Host Week, but focused on Tech coming up in October. We haven’t officially launched it, but everyone listening, feel free to register - it’s completely free and fully digital, so you can listen anywhere you happen to be. To learn more, take a look here - https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/tech-week ➡️ We also have a comparison chart in our blog around Travel Itinerary Buildershttps://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/best-travel-itinerary-builders so you can easily see the differences ➡️ Take a look at the Travel Agency Software available in our directory page - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software
	Marketing my agency? Working with DMCs? Franchise vs Host?	11 Jul 2025	00:22:31
Shayna and Steph team up with Jenn Lee from Vacation Planners to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out Vacation Planners profile here: Vacation Planners \| Host Agency Reviews. Here are the awesome questions they’ll tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST! I'm stuck on making a decision. I've only had two clients in the last year (my friends). They are FITs, its honestly been a pain to deal with. I do have a supplier helping me with this, but it's still been rough. I know I've only had 2 clients because I haven't advertised. It really seems social media is the way we need to market, and the idea of doing videos and reels of myself makes me nauseous. Plus, any training on marketing. Along with training in general for things so so time consuming. There's no time. I work a full time job already, so it all seems overwhelming and impossible. Should I just bag this whole thing of working for myself, and work for a supplier if I can? Can you talk about the practice of DMCs presenting quotes in gross vs net commission, and is it preferred or acceptable to request one over the other? I am an experienced agent (going on 6 years) but looking to switch hosts (participated in Host Week and have been researching since). I recently met and have been speaking with a travel company franchisee about joining them as an associate with 90/10 commission split (which is much more than my split now) and approximately $40/month fee. However, my hang up is I would have to operate under their brand and after royalties and the franchisee taking their 10% it appears that I would actually end up with approximately 73%. They do have amazing tech, training, and support. Trying to figure out if that is worth it or a host agency that isn't a franchise. I'm having analysis paralysis with all the info available and want to make a good choice! Help! RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ Take HAR’s advisor survey – get a free 80+ page report! https://hostagencyreviews.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=zl%2BdXUs6zdkECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D ➡️ We have an article about Travel Agent Social Media - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-social-media ➡️ Training & Education - why it’s important and worth the short term pain of your time - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-training-travel-agent-education ➡️ What is a DMC - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company ➡️ Franchise or Host - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-franchise-or-host-agency
	Hiring an agent for my agency? Selling other products? FAMs?	27 Jun 2025	00:19:32
Shayna and Steph team up with Jennifer Dugan from Dugan’s Travels to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out Dugan’s profile here: Dugan's Travels LLC \| Host Agency Reviews. Here are the awesome questions they’ll tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST! I am a travel agent (since 2012) and own my own agency (since 2016). I am thinking of bringing on another agent and need to fully understand the differences and implications to both me as well as to the agent between me having this agent as an (a) employee, (b) and independent contractor, or (c) me being a host agency and them being a host agent. I attend market festivals as a vendor advertising my travel business between the spring and fall. This year, I have added some physical items to sell that are related to a few countries that I advertise. Because these are physical products and not travel, can I still sell them under my business name at these fairs? My host agency allows me to charge service fees, so I thought it would be ok to do this. Thanks! What is defined as a FAM? Would I be able to describe it as a business trip on my tax filing? Do I have to have any official reports, etc.? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ Take HAR’s advisor survey – get a free 80+ page report! https://hostagencyreviews.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=zl%2BdXUs6zdkECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D ➡️ What is a sub agent - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-sub-agent ➡️ Learn more about what FAM trips are -https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip ➡️ https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/dugans-travels ➡️ https://joindugans.com/
	Balancing Work Life with Family Health Needs. Industry Standard for Payouts? Presenting Prices to Clients?	20 Jun 2025	00:27:07
Shayna and Steph team up with Lori Speers from Levarte Travel to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out Levarte’s profile here. Here are the awesome questions they’ll tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST! Currently, I’m working as a receptionist, after my first year, I was promoted to Jr. Agent. Unfortunately, due to some health issues my son is facing, my career progress has been put on hold, and it wasn’t my choice to step back. I’ve had to prioritize his well-being, but it’s difficult not to be able to pursue my dream of becoming a travel advisor. Has anyone else faced something similar? How did you continue to move forward when life threw you a curveball like this? I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance on how to keep pursuing my goals despite these challenges. I know some host agencies pay out to their agents weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly. I'm curious to know the industry standard for how soon after receipt of commission from the supplier would a host agency pay the independent agent. What I'm still not clear on are things like this: how do I present options and prices to a client, and give them time to make a decision? Am I supposed to reserve all of the options first to guarantee the price, and then cancel the discarded options afterward? Or do you just present it and hope the prices don't change in the meantime? Are there other good places to find tips or suggestions for effective booking practices? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ Register for Lori’s Learn Love Levarte session: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QNDg5oG4STK7gz9mMvxjQA#/registration ➡️ We have an article on what to do and how to ensure your host is paying out your commission: https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-not-paying-commissions ➡️ Take HAR’s advisor survey – get a free 80+ page report! https://hostagencyreviews.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=zl%2BdXUs6zdkECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D ➡️ HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course on how to start your travel agency! https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator ➡️ Levarte’s profile and website: https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/levarte-travel + https://levartetravel.com/
	Protection for Wedding Coordinator? Selling Merch as Agent? Franchise vs. Own Brand?	13 Jun 2025	00:25:48
Steph teams up with Eric & co. of Cruise Planners to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out CP's profile here. Here are the awesome questions they’ll tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST! If you plan a destination wedding just as a coordinator - client pays vendor directly - how can you protect yourself? —Lenora D. I attend market festivals as a vendor advertising my travel business between the spring and fall. This year, I have added some physical items to sell that are related to a few countries that I advertise. Because these are physical products and not travel, can I still sell them under my business name at these fairs? My host agency allows me to charge service fees, so I thought it would be ok to do this. Thanks! —Marc C. I am an experienced agent (going on 6 years) but looking to switch hosts (participated in Host Week and have been researching since). I recently met and have been speaking with a travel company franchisee about joining them as an associate with 90/10 commission split (which is much more than my split now) and approximately $40/month fee. However, my hang up is I would have to operate under their brand (when I've done the HAR 7-day Accelerator course and researched and picked the name I want to operate under and domain is available) and after royalties and the franchisee taking their 10% it appears that I would actually end up with approximately 73%. They do have amazing tech, training, and support. Trying to figure out if that is worth it or a host agency that isn't a franchise. I'm having analysis paralysis with all the info available and want to make a good choice! Help! —Layne B. RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️ Your Midyear Gut Check (No Judgment, Just Real Talk) - Jenn Myers! ➡️ Take HAR’s advisor survey – get a free 80+ page report! ➡️ Watch Host Week — join us for free, the last week in January every year! https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/host-week ➡️ Travel Agency Franchise or Host Agency? A breakdown. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-franchise-or-host-agency) ➡️ HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course on how to start your travel agency! https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator ➡️ Travel market research report with data on travel advisor commission splits
	Backend business organization? Contracts? Fraud Risks?	06 Jun 2025	00:26:51
Steph and Shayna welcome Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out TIS’s profile here on our brand-new travel tech software profiles.Here are the juicy questions they’ll tackle this Friday, as always, at 12 pm CST! I absolutely love working with clients and planning trips, but when it comes to the backend of running my business—things like systems, organization, and workflows—I feel like I’m constantly playing catch-up. What kinds of processes or tools should I be thinking about to stay on top of things and actually free up some time? As I’ve grown my business, I keep hearing that I should be using templates or contracts to protect myself, but I’m not sure where to even start. Are there certain legal or operational documents that every advisor should have in place no matter what stage they’re at? With so many scams and fraud risks out there—especially things like fake client inquiries or payment fraud—what are some red flags I should be watching out for? And what steps can I take to protect myself and my business? RESOURCES: ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ➡️Take a look at the Travel Agency Software profiles - you can sort them by technology types depending on which processes you’re looking to streamline ➡️We also have an article that you can go to for a list of trave lawyers and some templates from them as well - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-lawyers ➡️We also have an article on Travel Waivers that highlights ‘considerations with t&c’s, waivers and disclaimers to protect your agency, different types of waivers and the list goes on - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-waivers-protect-your-travel-agency#sts=Working%20with%20a%20Travel%20Attorney%20to%20Customize%20Terms%20and%20Conditions,%20Waivers%20and%20Disclaimers%20for%20Your%20Agency ➡️Steph’s wonderful sister wrote a beautiful article on Fraud prevention resources, we have also embedded our credit card fraud webinar directly into the article - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fraud-prevention-resources-travel-agents
	Commission Splits? Selling Myself? Group Booking Contracts?	30 May 2025	00:20:55
Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Vacation Planners and Travel Planners International to host this week's Friday 15 to celebrate the beginning of the long weekend in the USA. You can check out their HAR profile HERE! Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ! I am a huge fan of your podcasts and I look forward to listening to them each week. I have been in the industry for just over 2 years working part time while I build up my business. I am curious about host agency commission splits and why some host agencies have higher commission splits. I notice there is a range of agency commission splits 70/30, 80/20 or 90/10. Right now I am at a 70/30 split and I wonder if this is an average commission split? I wonder for host agencies with higher commission splits is it because they offer more perks or benefits than host agencies with a 90/10 split. Love the podcast! I'm just over a year in as a part time agent and have been focusing on training (supplier and host agency training), building a website, and branding. Now I'm stuck on how to build a client base. I work full time in recruitment so I know that your close network isn't always going to become your client, but I've stalled out and need some inspiration. My focus is luxury leaning travellers interested in cruising with Virgin Voyages or going on safari. I have a great background in sales, event planning, dealing with ultra-high net worth clients, and I used to live in West Africa for 5 years. I know I'm well positioned to jump start this business but I feel a little lost on selling myself. Any help? Hello, HAR team. Thank you for your very informative article series on booking group travel. I'm working on my first group and trying to wrap my brain around contracts. Is there a contract between you (the travel advisor) and the supplier, and another contract between you and the client, or is it all one contract? Is this in addition to the usual terms and conditions form used when booking FIT travel? Last, are there any red flags to watch out for or items to be sure to include when signing these contracts with suppliers? Thank you for all you do! RESOURCES: ➡️ We will link an article we have about Host Agency Commission and splits, specifically we focus on: commission payments in general, host agency splits and we have a commission calculator spreadsheet - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-commission-plan-comparison-calculator ➡️ We have a great article we will link in the comments about ‘how to sell yourself as a travel advisor’ in general - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/avoya-q4-2021 ➡️ We have a great article on 10 insider group booking tips, where some of the advisors we interviewed touched on contracts - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/group-booking-tips-travel-advisors-agents We then also did a matching article from the supplier side, where we jump into creating a contract with your clients/group - specifically starting your responsibilities versus your clients and understanding your contract with the supplier too -
	Investing in my website? Do I really need an SEO strategy?	23 May 2025	00:18:01
Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Solstice Collective to host this week's Friday 15 to celebrate the beginning of the long weekend in the USA. You can check out their HAR profile HERE! Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us at 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ! I mostly get new clients from referrals. What’s the value of investing in a professional website if word-of-mouth is already working for me? I have a basic website but I’m not sure it’s doing much for my business. What are the must-haves for a travel advisor site that actually converts visitors into clients? Do travel advisors really need a blog or SEO strategy? Or can a clean site with my services and a contact form be enough? RESOURCES: ➡️ We have a wonderful article (that may or may not be written by Steph’s wonderful sister) on a step-by-step guide to building your website to make it easy to get started - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-to-make-a-website-from-scratch ➡️ We also have a complete guide to travel agency website options (with a comparison chart) for you as well - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-websites#sts=SEO: LINKS website + discounted services for HAR members: www.solstice-collective.com/HAR discount code for website templates (25%off): HAR -- www.solstice-collective.com/shop free website planning workbook: https://solsticeco.myflodesk.com/workbook newsletter signup: https://solsticeco.myflodesk.com/newsletter instagram: @solsticecollective_ \| www.instragram.com/solsticecollective_
	Group Travel Niches? Preferred Supplier Networks? Boutique Suppliers?	16 May 2025	00:22:44
Shayna Zand and Steph cohost with April Swales of Uniglobe Travel Center to host this week's Friday 15 to celebrate Travel Advisor Day/Month. You can check out their HAR profile HERE! You can scope out our questions below, then come and join us at 12 pm CST for the podcast! Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ! 1. I am thinking of getting into travel advising to share my love of animals. I have traveled to Kenya on a safari with a small group and several expedition ship trips to polar regions. My question is how to achieve bookings and have a cohesive enough group to spend so much time together? For example, how or can I screen or evaluate the compatibility of potential travelers, so if a trip is very physical, to make sure everyone is the group is prepared? 2. I realise that every Host agency has a different network. Even though I understand that I'm not supposed to go out of network if working in their system, if I am able to keep my own name and advertise as my own company, am I allowed to book with different networks of suppliers? 3. I have an interest in working with boutique suppliers, especially accommodations such as boutique hotels and Bed and Breakfasts. I'm wondering how host agencies mix with boutique suppliers? Do they generally have these connections? Am I able to make these connections and book with these suppliers using my host agencies IATA number? I heard from a friend that smaller, boutique suppliers don't like working with host agencies? Any truth to that? Looking forward to hearing your take. RESOURCES: ➡️ We have a series of 3 blogs about booking group travel and what suppliers want you to know about booking groups Sally, we will like the 1st of 3 articles in the comments for you (the other 2 blogs are linked directly at the top of this first one) - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/supplier-want-you-know-booking-groups This also includes a blog about 10 insider group booking tips from travel advisors and the second tip about ‘qualifying your group’ is great based on your specific question - don’t be afraid to ask what you need to ask or share the details of what the trip is all about - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/group-booking-tips-travel-advisors-agents ➡️ Refer to our ‘What is a preferred supplier in travel’ article - it will help outline why you likely want to work with a preferred supplier versus going outside of your network - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier
	How To Trademark Your Agency? Interested in Multi-Gen Niche!	09 May 2025	00:16:45
Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Fora Travel to host this week's Friday 15 to celebrate the beginning of May. You can check out their HAR profile HERE! Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us at 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here:https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 ! 1. The name I wanted to move forward with is "Be Prepared Vacations." The focus is on Disney, so the "Be Prepared" is a nod to Scar's song in the Lion King. I spoke with a trademark attorney. Unfortunately, the word "Be Prepared" can't be trademarked because the Boy Scouts have it trademarked. He said I can use the name, but it can't be trademarked. I really liked the name after going through hundreds of ideas, and the URLs and socials are all available. Upon doing some research, it didn't appear that many other smaller travel agencies had their name trademarked. If you can't get the name trademarked, is that an absolute No-No for you? Or just a nice thing to be able to do? -Scott K 2. I would like to specialize in multi-generational travel, but it seems this niche is still new and is not listed on several of the HA sites. Is there a host agency that is better than others when looking at family travel, especially multi-generational travel? Is there a better consortia? Beyond the niche of multi-generational travel, I would work with theme parks, all-inclusive, cruises, FITs. I know that sounds broad, but it is more the demographic I am focused on. -Melissa G RESOURCES: ➡️ We have an article about 6 tips for choosing travel agency names as well that might be helpful - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-names ➡️ We have a naming worksheet that you can download for free from this article too that gives you a full checklist of things to consider ➡️ In our second tip we specifically talk about trademark infringement and link to the Trademark Electronic Search System. Even if a company is doing something totally different from you, it’s something you want to be aware of - best to choose a different name. ➡️ We also have a previous episode (episode 58) that reviews trademarking - https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15/difference-of-tradeservice-markcopyright-trademark-process-costtime-mistakes ➡️ How to find a travel Niche - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche ➡️ We also have an article that gives you tips on finding the best host agency, we specifically discuss that if you’re looking for super specific niches, like multigen that you’re not going to find a host that is THAT specific https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency ➡️ Submit your Friday 15 questions here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Preparing for a Travel Agency NOW? Bookings for International Clients?	02 May 2025	00:27:19
Steph Lee co-hosts with Stephanie Gagnon of Just Perfect Travel. Check out the questions below, and then come and join us Friday at 12 pm CST for the podcast! Please submit your questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here! I am thinking about trying to become a travel advisor as a side hustle/potential career change. But, with the way the world is right now… Travel bands, tariffs, impending USA recession… I'm wondering what the outlook actually is for someone trying to start a new career in this field? What are the real travel agents preparing for? Is it a good idea to get into this business while all of this political stuff is happening? — Madi D. I am in the final steps of picking a host agency. My business is based out of the United States but my clients are from many different countries. I have a 16,000 person international reach and need to be able to service any client, regardless of where they are citizens. I have been told, possibly erroneously, that I can only book clients that are US citizens due to the suppliers limitations. Is this correct for most US host agencies? If so, are there any host agencies that allow booking of non US citizens, when my company is US based. —Apryl B. RESOURCES: ➡️Protecting client payments: https://www.travelweekly.com/Mark-Pestronk/How-to-protect-client-payments ➡️ Advice for traveling in fraught times: https://www.travelweekly.com/Arnie-Weissmann/Advice-for-traveling-in-fraught-times ➡️ Just Perfect Travel, Stephanie’s agency! https://www.justperfecttravelllc.com/ ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Meaningful Travel? Supporting Local Communities? Impact on Destinations?	25 Apr 2025	00:26:13
Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Cazavia Travel to host a special edition this week's Friday 15 to celebrate Earth Month. Cazavia’s host agency is Montecito Village Travel and you can check out their HAR profile HERE! Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here! How can travel advisors influence client decisions without being pushy—especially when sustainability isn’t already a priority for the traveler? Can you share an example of how an advisor made a trip more meaningful or sustainable for a client, even if that wasn’t the client’s original goal? What role do travel advisors play in supporting local communities and economies through the trips they plan? What do you wish more people knew about the impact their travel decisions have on the destinations they visit? RESOURCES: ➡️We have a great article as well on Supporting Clients Sustainable Travel, the green and red flags to look out for with suppliers specifically - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/supporting-clients-sustainable-travel-green-lights-and-red-flags ➡️ Only a few weeks ago, we partnered with Tourism Cares to publish an article on how sustainable and meaningful travel can grow your impact and business - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-sustainable-and-meaningful-travel-can-grow-your-impact-and-business ➡️ 200+ Travel agent rates! https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates ➡️ We have an article on 5 simple ways travel agencies can support sustainable travel with a checklist if you’re just getting started - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/sustainable-travel-checklist ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Narrowing Niche? TA Discounts? Customer Support? Air/Car Rentals Worth Low Commissions?	18 Apr 2025	00:23:57
Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Lori Speers to host this week's Friday 15. Lori's host agency is Levarte Travel and you can check out their HAR profile HERE! our co-host! Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here! 1. Why is it so hard to narrow down a host on a general niche (like Mexico AIs)? 2. What's the deal with TA discounts being earned + you not usually being able to tap into them until you reach certain sales levels? 3. Why don't TAs necessarily have access to exclusive discounts for trips for their clients? 4. What about after hours support for traveling clients not being on the host side, but rather the supplier's? 5. Are air/car rentals maybe worth my time due to low commissions? RESOURCES: ➡️Guide to choosing a travel niche. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche ➡️ Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip) ➡️ 200+ Travel agent rates! https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates ➡️ What is a travel consortium? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-travel-consortia-travel-coops) ➡️ All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier) ➡️Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	ID Number to Sell Travel? Newbie as a Sub-Agent? Transferring Clients?	11 Apr 2025	00:23:49
Our Managing Director Shayna Zand takes the helm this week at the Friday 15, with Connie Miller of Montecito Village Travel as our co-host! Check out Montecito's profile here and the questions below that Shayna and Conni will tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 1. Do you really need an Identification number to be seen as a travel agency.. or can I essentially just book someone's trip for them? I’m not sure I want to find a host, I want to start my own business, but I don't know if that would be beneficial without having a number because I don't know if I would get the best discounts that way. I would love to just book people's trips, any advice? I'm fine booking the trip and just charging a fee without receiving all the extra commissions.. I just want to know if that is something I am technically allowed to do. I also want to know would it benefit the client though. 2. How does a newbie travel advisor become a sub-agent? And where can a newbie find a mentor? 3. When changing Host agencies, is it possible to transfer clients and vendor information without doing it individually? As a courtesy, should I tell the agency that I am moving on to another agency? RESOURCES: ➡️ We have an article about What is a Travel Sub Agent and is it Right for you - we will post it in the comments. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-sub-agent ➡️ HAR Events Cal! - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events ➡️ How to Choose the best host and key factors to consider https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2025/how-to-choose-the-best-host-agency-for-travel-advisors-key-factors-to-consider ➡️Switching Hosts 5 Things to Consider https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/switching-host-agencies-5-things-to-consider ➡️Dual Affiliation https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency ➡️A huge thank you to Connie for joining us today and we will post the link to Montecito Village Travel’s profile for you in the comments section so you can go check them out.
	Host Agencies in Japan? Seller of Travel Liability? Foreign Transaction Fees?!	04 Apr 2025	00:18:24
Steph and Shayna co-host the Friday 15 with Stephanie Pickles of PTN! Scope out PTN's profile here and the questions below that Stephanie, Stephanie and Shayna will cover this Friday at 12 pm CST. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here! 1. Where do I find a list of all the host agencies in Japan (like HAR for US and CA). I want to start a branch operation in Japan. I want the consortium in Japan. What are the accreditation in Japan? -Joseph W. 2. If an Independent Contractor neglects to renew their Florida Sellers of Travel Independent Sales Agent license on time, what are the repercussions by the state? How have other host agencies handled this situation? Is the host agency liable? --Anonymous 3. Why would there be a foreign transaction fee when you are paying the supplier? I guess if they booked direct there might be. --Larry H. RESOURCES: ➡️Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) https://www.japan.travel/en/ ➡️World Travel Agency Associaion Alliance (WTAAA) https://wtaaa.org ➡️All Nippon Travel Agency Association (ANTA) https://www.anta.or.jp/ ➡️Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license ➡️What is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Billing for FIT Trips? How Do Leads Work?	28 Mar 2025	00:28:45
Steph and Shayna welcome Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out TIS’s profile here on our brand-new travel tech software profiles.Here are the juicy questions they’ll tackle this Friday, as always, at 12 pm CST! 1. Hi Stephanie and Team! Thanks for all you do! I am hitting a wall trying to figure out how to bill for group FIT trips. To have each person in the group pay individually for each hotel reservation and activity would cause many foreign transaction fees on their credit cards. It is so much easier to just collect one payment/client and then I could pay it to all of the vendors on my business credit card which has no foreign transaction fees. However, I have heard multiple times that this is not best practice. I called and emailed my host company about this and their only advice was to talk with other advisors about what they do which is fine, but I want to make sure I am doing things properly. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated! Appreciate all you do! Sincerely, Anonymous 2. Dear HAR, I’m a relatively new advisor (I started about a year and a half ago) and I am trying to understand the concept of “leads”. My host agency (which I love!) does not have a lead generation program, and I would really like to see how a lead works and practice using my training and skills with a mock lead. Do you know of any programs or practice websites/workbooks for this? Also, in the future how might I generate real leads on my own? Thank you for everything you all do! Lisa B. RESOURCES: Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license What does FIT in travel mean? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaning F15 on tour operator vs. agent (Episode 138) https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15/how-to-navigate-clients-loyalty-programs-stay-clients-agent-not-tour-operator-project-management-platforms-outside-crm What is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company Credit card processing for travel agencies https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/credit-card-processing-for-travel-agencies Travel waivers to protect your travel agency https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-waivers-protect-your-travel-agency
	Ex-pat living 6,000 miles from your clients. Maximum efficiency w/time tracking. Charging fees from day one. Meet Grace from Switzerland.	24 Mar 2025	01:41:45
View the video, transcript, and show notes at: https://har.news/vol32 Today's guest made the leap from tech project management to travel advising in 2023 while living abroad in Switzerland. Within just two years, she's grown her agency, Your Travel Story, to nearly 6 times the sales from Year 1. What makes Grace Camoglu’s journey particularly fascinating is how she balances being an FIT travel advisor with living in Switzerland, raising two young children (ages 8 and 11), and primarily serving North American clients—all while operating in a different time zone. Grace has embraced fees from day one, starting with $200 and now charging $500 per household for a 7-10 day trip. She'll share how she's navigated time zone challenges, host agency selection as an expat, and why she believes in charging fees from the beginning. For Grace, travel is a family tradition. Her father, who worked at a travel agency in Taiwan before immigrating to the U.S., instilled a love of exploration in her from an early age. Now, she's passing that passion along to her own children while building a business that works for her family's unique situation. Tune in for practical insights on building a travel business abroad and how you can take an objective look at your workflow and use time tracking to hone in on the inefficient areas that are costing you money. And for icing on the cake, Grace will share with use some insider tips for your clients next trip to Switzerland!
	Agency Name? Will Global Changes Affect US Travel? Do I Need a Host Agency?	21 Mar 2025	00:27:28
In episode 200, Steph and Shayna co-host and Global Travel Collection is out sponsor. We’ve got three substantial questions to dig into this week, so study up & let’s go! 1. I'm just in the beginning of becoming a travel agent and really appreciate all the information I have been able to get from Host Agency Reviews. Thank you so much! My question is related to my potential agency name. I have looked up the possible name on NameCheap and it was not listed but when I look on Facebook there is a page with the same name. It doesn't appear that there has been any activity since 2022. Should I abandon the name I want or add something to the Facebook page name as I create it like my name or the word vacation? Or do you recommend something else? -Debi W. 2. As an aspiring travel advisor, do you believe changes in the United States' relations with other countries will significantly impact the number of people booking trips and vacations? How will such changes affect the travel industry? Also, do you think I should continue my efforts to find a host agency?Thank You for your response. -Tonia 3. I currently work for a major tour operator and have been quite successful in the luxury FIT space over the past year alone. My company is large enough to handle their own contracts etc., so the idea of host agencies, consortia, etc is foreign to me. While I don't dislike my job, I want to start my own business, be my own boss, and deal with quality over quantity. My business plan is to offer the same kind of tailored itineraries that I do now, but a primary objective is to lead organized small group tours to my specialty destinations. I have read loads of articles on "finding the right host agency". But what I am stuck on is SHOULD I have a host agency. -Anonymous RESOURCES: ➡️Tips for choosing travel agency names + examples. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-for-choosing-travel-agency-names) ➡️Smart Traveler Enrollment Program https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step ➡️What is a tour operator? ➡️What does FIT in travel mean? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaning ➡️What is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	Travel with Small Children? How To Organize Digital Info?	14 Mar 2025	00:24:23
In episode 199, Steph and Shayna co-host with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week. Please join us! 1. What is your favorite place to travel with children under 5? ---Staci W. 2. Hi guys, my question is about organizing and processes. Working independently it's difficult to see how other people organize not only their workflow but how they store their information to recall it. From as simple as an A-Z address book to put formats or special codes for suppliers, sometimes you just want things simple and quick. I struggle with how to set up my files to recall information. I see Steph saying "oh I'll attach a link …" and she retrieves it. Any tips on how to organize computer files? Any help on notes on webinars watched? Thank you! —Theresa W. RESOURCES: ➡️ Project Management Software: Trello, Asana, Monday.com ➡️ Software that allows different programs to pass information between them: Zapier ➡️ HAR’s list of travel agency CRMs https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/crm ➡️Voices of Innovation: Celebrating Women's Leadership in Travel \| Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2025/voices-of-innovation-celebrating-women-s-leadership-in-travel ➡️Ways to Contact Jennifer! Dugan’s website https://joindugans.com/ Dugan’s HAR profile–ask your questions and read reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/dugans-travels Dugan’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/duganstravels Dugan’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/duganstravels/ ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	How To Organize Contacts? Should I Go Out On My Own?	07 Mar 2025	00:29:58
In episode 198, Steph Lee co-hosts with a longtime friend of the Friday 15, April Swales of Uniglobe Travel Center. They’ve got two especially in-depth questions, so have a look and tune in Friday 12 pm CST! 1. Do you have a good system for organizing all your travel BD contacts and promotional material of properties? I get overwhelmed with paper and business cards and even online and notes I still cannot seem to get a system in place for everything I receive. --- Sara R. 2. I am an IC with about 2 years in the business. I'm considering going out on my own because I'm not happy with my situation for many reasons. How do you know it's the right time to make this change? What do you see as the pros and cons of staying an IC and being independent? ---Anonymous RESOURCES: ➡️Blinq.com for e-business cards and sharing your info, gathering other e-business cards ➡️Camcard.com to organize business cards and create e-business cards ➡️HAR’s list of travel agency CRMs ➡️Follow on Youtube: The BD School l Process to measure business development ➡️Follow on Youtube: CEO Entrepreneur Essential Functions of a Small Business: Creating An Organisational Structure For Your Business ➡️Score.org for various business mentorship opportunities! ➡️A list of the different travel agent accreditation options. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation ➡️What is an IATA number? ➡️Top 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency ➡️ Host Agency Reviews’ Travel Consortia List ➡️ List of travel industry lawyers and contact information ➡️ Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license ➡️ Do travel agents need Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance? ➡️Ways to Contact April:
	When to LLC? How To Be a Sub-Agent? Worried About Refunds!	28 Feb 2025	00:16:48
In episode 197, Steph Lee hosts and Andavo Travel is our sponsor. (Thanks, Andavo!) Here's a taste of the questions she'll cover! 1. At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is not large yet? — Anonymous 2. How does a newbie travel advisor become a sub-agent? And where can a newbie find a mentor? —Diana B. 3. I always worry about being considered the Merchant of Record on flights and being on the hook for any refunds that are due the client while waiting on the airline to send the refund. Any thoughts? - Karen RESOURCES: ➡️ What are the business structures options for my travel agency and the pros/cons of each? ➡️ List of travel industry lawyers and contact information ➡️Research reports covering the income growth for travel advisors as they gain experiences ➡️Join our industry association: ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	System for Supplier Contacts? Go Independent? Thank You Gifts?	21 Feb 2025	00:20:13
In episode 196, our very own Mary Stein co-hosts with the one and only Jenn Lee of Vacation Planners! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week! 1. Do you have a good system for organizing all your travel BD contacts and promotional material of properties? I get overwhelmed with paper and business cards and even online and notes I still cannot seem to get a system in place for everything I receive. - Sara 2. I am an IC with about 2 years in the business. I'm considering going out on my own because I'm not happy with my situation for many reasons. How do you know it's the right time to make this change? What do you see as the pros and cons of staying an IC and being independent? - Anonymous 3. Hey Guys! I'm wondering, What are some ideas for "Thank You" gifts for my clients that are traveling to All Inclusives? I feel like it's easy to do gifts on cruises, I'm just not quite sure what to do for my land vacations. Any ideas?") - Cindy RESOURCES: ➡️ Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software ➡️Host Week 2023: EduSpot, Personality Selling - Gain CONTROL from the Beginning https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfZ0EIkCYZU&t=13290s ➡️Top 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency ➡️Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts) ➡️Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) ➡️Brilliant Ideas to Surprise & Delight Your Clients, Host Week Eduspot Stephanie Gries: https://www.youtube.com/live/WhNhFEYhJwY?feature=shared&t=18609 ➡️Ways to Contact Jenn Lee! jenn@vacationplanners.com Vacation Planners Host Agency Reviews profile (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/vacation-planners) Vacation Planners website (https://vacationplannersfranchise.com/) ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!
	When to LLC? How to Deal with Failure? Which Course To Take?	14 Feb 2025	00:20:58
In episode 195, we have a HAR Team special with Shayna Zand and Rita Perez! Here are the questions they’ll cover in this week’s episode! At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is not large yet? How do you deal with failure? I feel lost on which course to take. There seems to be the ASTA roadmap, This Accelerator course, and then the TRIPKIT course, which all seem to have rave reviews. But what's the difference? RESOURCES: ➡️ Travel Agency Business Structures: How to Choose https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-business-structures ➡️Previous Friday 15 where Steph and her co-host discussed LLCs and bank accounts: Getting Set Up with LLC, Bank Accts, Etc. – Using Points for Clients? – Host Agencies Outside US? \| Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15/getting-set-up-with-llc-bank-accts-etc-using-points-for-clients-host-agencies-outside-us Host Week Discussion with Stacey Cabell: Breaking Boundaries: How Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone Can Transform Your Travel Business https://www.youtube.com/live/mk-2kBH0aS8?t=18043s ➡️ Travel Agent Training and Education, 2025 https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-training-travel-agent-education ➡️ HAR Resource on Selling Travel Full-time vs. Part-time: https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/selling-travel-full-time ➡️Travel Market Research Reports \| Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-market-research-reports ➡️https://har.news/roadmap (HAR’s course through ASTA. The Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor.) ➡️HAR’s 7 Day Setup LITE is a free online course that helps you start your agency. It does not have support and takes you through resources to help you make things happen. (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-lite) ➡️HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course with 70+ easily digestible videos, 48 exclusive resources, monthly live meetups with HAR team and others for support and...
	Client thank you gifts? Changing host agencies? Racing client for best price?	07 Feb 2025	00:26:44
In episode 194, Steph cohosts again with Lori Speers of Levarte Travel! Here are the questions they’ll cover! 1. How do I deal with a client who is searching while I am researching and I feel like I am in a race to find the best deal or price? —Pamela C. 2. Hey Guys! I'm wondering, What are some ideas for "Thank You" gifts for my clients that are traveling to All Inclusives? I feel like it's easy to do gifts on cruises, I'm just not quite sure what to do for my land vacations. Any ideas? —Cindy W. 3. When changing Host agencies, is it possible to transfer clients and vendor information without doing it individually? As a courtesy, should I tell the agency that I am moving on to another agency? —Pamela C. RESOURCES: ➡️Did you miss Levare’s Host Week interview? What did they answer for their Karaoke question?!? ➡️Travel agent guide to charging fees. ➡️WATCH: Host Week 2025 EduSpot: Redefining Value Beyond Commissions: The Case for Planning Fees in Travel, Ajanaclair Wise ➡️WATCH: Host Week 2025 EduSpot: Different Ways to Surprise and Delight Your Clients, Stephanie Gries, Travefy ➡️What to think about when switching host agencies. ➡️Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles ➡️Things to look for in your contract with your host agency ➡️ Virtual assistant companies: Lucia, 4TravelStaffing ➡️Read reviews and learn more on Levarte’s HAR profile! ➡️Check out Levarte’s new website! ➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15
	What CRM for Credit Cards? Too Many Hosts!! How to Assess Fees?	24 Jan 2025	00:26:53
In episode 192, Steph cohosts again with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here are the questions they’ll cover! 1. Hi I’m a new independent travel advisor just getting ramped up and which CRM is recommended for CC payments- I would like my clients to pay directly using a CC or debit card. -Kevin Jordan 2. How in the world can we go through 30 hosts in detail with questions to finally decide 1 to sign on? I have already contacted an attorney to form the LLC before sign up with the host. -Anonymous 3. How do you assess how and what to charge for planning fees? -Anonymous RESOURCES: Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software Travel Agency CRM List (with User Reviews (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/crm) Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts) Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-guide-to-charging-fees (Travel agent guide to charging fees.) https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/lary-neron-airfare-consultant (Podcast episode with an advisor who books air only and charges $50-500 fees per ticket.) Travel market research report data on travel agent fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!)
	Benefits of Leaving a Host Agency? Clients Who Complain? A Teacher + Also Sell Travel?	17 Jan 2025	00:30:48
In episode 191, Steph cohosts with Dave Meihoefer of TPI and they’ve got a ton of questions to cover, so make sure and ready up on ‘em in advance! Have a gander: 1. Hi Steph! I thought I had a rare name, but your podcast is making me feel like just another Stephanie! :). SO many Stephanies!!! We should start a club! I have gone through the Accelerator Course, just going back and starting the business end of things - after 2 1/2 months of name searching, I feel like I can finally fill in the blanks! Thanks so much for all of your great podcasts and resources!! This question doesn't really pertain to me now, but when looking to the future, in my successful advisor life, what is the benefit of leaving a host agency and going on my own? Will I be a host agency lifer? Or is there a pot of gold on the other side? Just curious, cheers- Another One of those Stephanies 2. Hi Steph, listener & big HAR fan here from Belgium, Europe! Don't know if this has already been asked, but couldn't find it straight away in the archives 😉 Here is my question: "How would you deal with clients who are travelling and complaining about every minor detail, going from "the gym was only open for 1 hour" (though the sign & website says from 6am to 7 pm), "the room was cold but they wouldn't turn on the heating" (even though it was already on), "breakfast is too British", "restaurant prices were too Western, not to Indian standards" (in a Michelin star restaurant in India), ... They are driving the local rep up the wall, nothing seems to suit them, they've been given free upgrades etc, but when confronting them personally, they're telling a completely different story than the local agency is. I'm worried it's some sort of strategy, to get a reimbursment or discount for their next trip, but don't want to fall for this. How should one handle this professionally without risking getting bad reviews and knowing they got everything they requested at time of booking and more. They are also seasoned travellers so shouldn't be a case where they came unprepared. Any thoughts, insights? Kind regards, Inez 3. Hi Friday 15! I'm a school teacher and will be starting part time until I retire in 2-5 years. During the summers I have tons of free time but if I have clients on a trip during the school year how will I be available to them? For example if a problem arises and they need me to rebook something / advocate for them with a supplier, etc? Teaching is not like some jobs where you can just duck away from your desk for 15 minutes randomly in the middle of the day to take a phone call. When I'm at school I'm very much in a "school bubble" that nothing can interrupt. I guess the main "questions behind my question" are, how realistic is it to successfully do this as a side hustle while teaching, and for how long? How much will I be able to take care of my clients (or how much of that will actually be needed) during the school year? ---Alissa B. RESOURCES: HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course on how to start your travel agency! https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator Top 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency Travel Agency Accreditation
	Do Suppliers Provide Booking Software? Seller of Travel and Working Outside the U.S.	10 Jan 2025	00:28:51
In episode 190, Steph Lee and Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions go deep this week with questions on suppliers and seller of travel rules! Here are the questions in their entirely: 1. I have signed up with _____ as my host agent. Being very new to travel of this form, I feel I am learning a lot of the marketing. I know it is important but I’m not learning the program for the booking part and am getting frustrated. I must be missing something. Ok sorry for the rant. The question is: is it the suppliers that provide the software on the booking? I am going in the direction of cruises. Let me know. —Deborah M.. 2. I have been looking into host agencies and trying to find the right solution for my situation. I am hoping you could provide a little clarity with your expertise. I want to join a host agency with the hope that someday I can live wherever I want for up to 6 months out of the year. I currently live in Ontario, Canada and ideally when I retire I would like to continue my travel sales. I want a portable business. Is this possible with residency restrictions? In reading more about "Seller of Travel" rules, my understanding is that in Ontario you need to be TICO certified to sell travel in Ontario. But you can only sell travel to Ontario residents and you must be an Ontario resident. Which I assume means even if my main residence is Ontario, if I'm visiting Italy for 3 months, I cannot continue to sell travel to Ontarions while staying in another country for several months out of the year? So as I started to look into this issue, I found that the US is a little more lax, but there are still a few states that require certain licensing like Florida, California, Hawaii etc. So if I wanted a portable business would the solution be to connect with a host agency that is US based and accepts Canadians also, so that while I am living abroad I have the freedom to sell travel products to US residents without restrictions of licensing or where I live for a few months of the year? —Patti RESOURCES: HAR’s travel industry conferences and events calendar with over 100+ events! https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license Canadian Regulations for Travel Agencies in a Nutshell https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/canadian-regulations-travel-agencies-nutshell ACTA - Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Advisors https://www.acta.ca/index.php Host Agency List with hundreds of hosts and reviews from their travel advisor members. Travel Industry Solutions website Read reviews and ask questions on Travel Industry Solutions’
	Starting an Agency While Working Another Job! I Like To Cruise – Should I Become a Travel Advisor?	03 Jan 2025	00:23:41
In episode 189, Steph Lee and April Swales of Uniglobe Travel chat on our first barrage of 2025 questions from all you lovely people! Here's a taste, make sure and tune in on Friday! 1. I plan to continue working at my current job and want to start my travel agency in the new year. Do you have tips on how to juggle two jobs and make sure I get back to my clients quickly when I have another day job? I don’t want to lose any future clients but can’t afford to not work. —Katee R. 2. Our family of 3 takes a cruise every winter with 3 other families. I am the organizer. Would it be worth it for me to become a travel agent? What kind of savings can I access and how much would it cost to become a travel agent? —Jen R. RESOURCES: How much do travel agents make? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-travel-agent-salary How much does it cost to become a travel agent or start a travel agency? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-become-travel-age Information on travel agent income over time. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles: https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software Do Travel Agents Need Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insurance A List of 200+ Travel Agent Rates in 2024 https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates Explaining Travel Agent Commissions [Infographic + Charts] https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-commissions Host Week 2025! \| Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/host-week [2025] Uniglobe CoffeeSpot
	Typical Timeline for Starting Out as Agent? Does Expedia Hurt My Sales?	27 Dec 2024	00:22:56
In episode 188, Steph Lee and Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels cover some great questions this week, including how long it takes to get started as an advisor and how OTAs affect travel advisor business. Here are the queries in detail: 1. Hi, I have been listening to the Friday 15s this month, thank you for all the information. What's the typical timeline from starting as a new advisor to becoming profitable? —Anonymous 2. I’m exploring a career as a travel advisor and am seriously thinking about starting my agency in 2025 after Host Week. I’m worried about competing with Booking.com and Expedia. How do those companies affect an agency’s business model and ability to compete? –Anonymous RESOURCES: How much do travel agents make? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-travel-agent-salary How much does it cost to become a travel agent or start a travel agency? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-become-travel-age Information on travel agent income over time. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/3-ways-travel-agents-save-you-money (3 ways travel agents save you money that OTAs can’t) Using a travel agent vs. booking online? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-vs-booking-online Internova North American Traveler Insights report https://internova.com/research/ https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!)
	Choosing E&O Insurance? When Should I Get My Own IATA Number?	20 Dec 2024	00:30:52
In episode 187, Steph Lee and Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels discuss a variety of topics this week, including E&O Insurance and when it’s a good idea to get your own IATA number! Here are the questions in all their glory: 1. I would like to hear the Pros and Cons and the best strategy on choosing a supplier for E&O insurance. –Diane D. 2. Hello! I came across a blog and wanted to reach out as I am becoming more and more confused as I search. I am a 1099 contractor under a company with an IATA # I've been using to sell travel for approx 10 years. But my main business is wedding planning. I would like to earn commission on my hotel room blocks at 100%. For many reasons, but most hotels are capped at 7% so I am not gaining anything with my current travel partners volume. I do still want to sell travel under his IATA for Sandals, and most other trips that I book with TOs and benefit from higher commissions due to volume I would not have on my own. I do not sell air. Can I/ Should I get my own IATA # to book the hotels and non volume commission bookings and keep 100%. If so, can I continue selling under his IATA (I have my own IATAN card under his number for my own personal travel perks). Or is there another accreditation I could use just for hotel commissions (mostly Hilton and Marriott). I was reading about clia and arc and true... etc. I don't need a complex answer. But I'd love some direction. Thank you very much in advance! –Anonymous RESOURCES: Do Travel Agents Need Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insurance) What Is An IATA Number? (And How Do You Get It?) (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/iata-number) What is a CLIA Number? CLIA vs. ARC and CLIA vs. IATA (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-a-clia-number) Travel Agency Accreditation Options [Infographic + More] (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation) Belonging to more than one host agency: The pros and cons. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency) Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts) Use HAR’s commission plan calculator:...

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