What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
Michigan State University and the University of Hawaii both had Travel Industry Management programs. That was an initial spark. But it was Hawaii. Our family would travel there each year, and from my first visit on it has continued to hold a place in my heart. I realized that I wanted to be in a fun industry, serving others, and exploring the world. I aimed to be a global citizen, understanding other cultures and learning constantly. The melting pot that is Hawaii fed this desire. The spirit of the people, the beauty, the ocean – it spoke to my soul.
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
It was my first job, working with Ruth Rittmeister, the Ruthless Master as she was often called by some of the new advisors in her office. Ruth accepted nothing less than perfect, consistent, complete, compelling, and elegantly delivered. I learned so much from her.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
The stories. It’s always about helping to create a story or a lasting memory that you know they will cherish forever. It starts with understanding the details of their passions and interests. What do they love? From there you can design in a way that is personal to each individual, for that specific destination or experience. For our clients, travel isn’t about checking off the boxes, it is about immersing in the culture, and becoming connected to both a place and its people. I love when our clients share their stories because it shows that we’ve added meaning to their lives. This is the fulfilling part of the job.
What’s one cultural experience that left a lasting impression on you?
Bhutan. This is a place that will forever hold a place in my heart. It’s above and beyond. From the rituals and ceremonies and activities, to the history and culture, to the moving and immeasurable happiness its people. Bhutan is surrounded by enemies, but they have found a way to be filled with joy and happiness, with a culture that understands the “we.” It’s an entire country thriving together, with a purpose, and passion.
What skills from The Travel Institute have made the biggest impact in your career?
Having the structure to fall back on, and knowing that the learning is never complete.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
Fall in love with the industry. When you truly love what you do then you stay in your joy and you stay curious. Become a lifelong member and learner. Invest in people and relationships, because the world of travel is delightfully small and relationships open the door to every experience imaginable. And lastly, find a mentor to help put your learning into action, expand on what you know, and get you out of your comfort zone.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
This is truly what I thrive on! My excitement lives in the evolving, ever changing nature of the world of travel. Cherish each moment, as we may never pass this way again. It really comes down to the strength of your foundation, which for me are my values and our company’s values. Our tools and processes and even relationships may change, but our values will not. We show up our way so that we can show up for others. In this way we create trusted relationships that span generations of travelers. When your north star is the values you hold dear, you’re impervious to change.
Are there any mentors or peers in the industry who’ve deeply influenced your path?
Ruth Rittmeister was my first boss, and a really tough teacher. She will forever be the mentor who most directly influenced me. But mentorship actually started in our home where we taught to do the right thing even if no one else is. My father taught me the virtue of going to sleep each night knowing that you told the truth, showed up as yourself, and gave it your best. In our house we learned to be kind and understanding, listening to what is not being said. My father used to say, “we have two ears and one mouth for a reason”, all the things I continue to hear in my head. While my parents are no longer with us, their spirit lives on in the lessons I have learned. We have named our children and grandchildren by those who have passed, their soul lives on in the next generation. That’s a really powerful story for me.
If you could only pack 3 items for a trip around the world, what would they be?
Cash, snacks, and my passport!
What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?
Himalayas, Ananda. It’s on the list.
