What does it take to build and maintain a thriving and mutually beneficial relationship with travel suppliers? In this episode, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada break it all down with NoteWorthy owner and managing director Nicola Butler, who describes herself as “the travel advisor’s travel advisor.” Hear Butler’s thoughts on curating a portfolio of suppliers and what suppliers are looking for from advisors right now.

This episode was sponsored by Oceania Cruises. 

Further resources

Email Nicola Butler, find her on Instagram or call her at +44 7766 806727

NoteWorthy on Instagram

Mentioned in this episode:
From Travel Weekly, DMCs help bring the ‘wow’
Churchill War Rooms
Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style exhibit
The Bayeux Tapestry
The Museum Tavern, home of the “Beereux Tapestry”

Need advice?

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to build and maintain a thriving and mutually beneficial relationship with travel suppliers? In this episode, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada break it all down with NoteWorthy owner and managing director Nicola Butler, who describes herself as &ldquo;the travel advisor&rsquo;s travel advisor.&rdquo; Hear Butler&rsquo;s thoughts on curating a portfolio of suppliers and what suppliers are looking for from advisors right now.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.oceaniacruises.com/">Oceania Cruises</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
<a href="mailto:nicola@noteworthy.co.uk">Email</a> Nicola Butler, find her on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/noteworthynicola">Instagram</a> or call her at +44 7766 806727
NoteWorthy on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/noteworthy.experiences/">Instagram</a>
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">From Travel Weekly, <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/DMCs-help-bring-the-wow">DMCs help bring the &lsquo;wow&rsquo;</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms">Churchill War Rooms</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.rct.uk/collection/exhibitions/queen-elizabeth-ii-her-life-in-style">Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style</a> exhibit</li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/bayeux-tapestry">The Bayeux Tapestry</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/greater-london/museum-tavern">The Museum Tavern</a>, home of the &ldquo;Beereux Tapestry&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Need advice?
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mastering supplier relations with ‘the travel advisor’s travel advisor’ (feat. NoteWorthy’s Nicola Butler)

Starting a career as a travel advisor is exciting, but it can also feel like drinking from a fire hose. From picking the right education programs and mastering daily organization to sending clients to a destination you’ve never set foot in — where do you even begin? On this episode of Trade Secrets, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada sit down with Henley Vazquez, co-founder of host agency Fora, to break it all down.

Thanks to our friends at Travefy for helping us solicit travel advisor questions this season. 

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. 

Further resources

Fora on the web

Fora on Instagram: Travel and community

Need advice?

 

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starting a career as a travel advisor is exciting, but it can also feel like drinking from a fire hose. From picking the right education programs and mastering daily organization to sending clients to a destination you&rsquo;ve never set foot in &mdash; where do you even begin? On this episode of Trade Secrets, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada sit down with Henley Vazquez, co-founder of host agency Fora, to break it all down.
Thanks to our friends at <a href="https://travefy.com/">Travefy</a> for helping us solicit travel advisor questions this season.&nbsp;
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">Travel Insured International</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
Fora <a href="https://www.foratravel.com/">on the web</a>
Fora on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/foratravel">Travel</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/foracommunity">community</a>
<hr>
Need advice?
&nbsp;
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The newbie travel advisor’s playbook: Education, organization and selling the unknown (feat. Fora’s Henley Vazquez)

As a travel advisor or supplier, what are your most pressing legal questions? That was the question posed to attendees at Future Leaders in Travel, an event for young travel advisors and suppliers powered by Travel Weekly’s sister publication, TravelAge West.

Co-host Emma Weissmann was on-site at the event, held in late August in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and sat down during the general session with Stephanie Hankins, an attorney and travel advisor at Fora, to tackle attendees’ legal questions. Hankins addresses the importance of creating iron-clad terms and conditions, how to properly classify independent contractors, how to protect yourself against fraud, the ethics of using AI and the question she most frequently receives from suppliers.

This episode was recorded live, on-site, at Future Leaders in Travel, during the event’s general session on August 26.

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. 

Further resources
Ment Law Group
Hankins on Instagram
Future Leaders in Travel
TravelAge West

Need advice?

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a travel advisor or supplier, what are your most pressing legal questions? That was the question posed to attendees at Future Leaders in Travel, an event for young travel advisors and suppliers powered by Travel Weekly&rsquo;s sister publication, TravelAge West.
Co-host Emma Weissmann was on-site at the event, held in late August in Mexico&rsquo;s Riviera Maya, and sat down during the general session with Stephanie Hankins, an attorney and travel advisor at Fora, to tackle attendees&rsquo; legal questions. Hankins addresses the importance of creating iron-clad terms and conditions, how to properly classify independent contractors, how to protect yourself against fraud, the ethics of using AI and the question she most frequently receives from suppliers.
This episode was recorded live, on-site, at Future Leaders in Travel, during the event&rsquo;s general session on August 26.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">Travel Insured International</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.mentlaw.com/">Ment Law Group</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Hankins on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hankinsonthegeaux/">Instagram</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.futureleadersintravel.com/">Future Leaders in Travel</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelagewest.com">TravelAge West</a></li>
</ul>
Need advice?
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trade Secrets on the road: Ask a lawyer at Future Leaders in Travel (feat. Stephanie Hankins of Ment Law Group)

Picking a niche – or two – is a solid strategy for any agency business. This week on Trade Secrets, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada break down the benefits of specialization with Avoya’s Mickey McBride and top producer Dana Dziegiel. They cover everything from finding the right specialties to identifying great supplier partners and up-and-coming markets.

Thanks to our friends at Tern for helping us solicit travel advisor questions this season. https://tern.travel/

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. https://www.travelinsured.com/

Further resources

Dana Dziegiel on Instagram and LinkedIn

Email Mickey McBride

Avoya Travel on the web

Need advice?ff

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Picking a niche &ndash; or two &ndash; is a solid strategy for any agency business. This week on Trade Secrets, co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada break down the benefits of specialization with Avoya&rsquo;s Mickey McBride and top producer Dana Dziegiel. They cover everything from finding the right specialties to identifying great supplier partners and up-and-coming markets.
Thanks to our friends at Tern for helping us solicit travel advisor questions this season. <a href="https://tern.travel/">https://tern.travel/</a>
This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. <a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">https://www.travelinsured.com/</a>
<hr>
Further resources
<a href="https://www.avoyatravel.com/experts/dana-dziegiel/">Dana Dziegiel</a> on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gypsea_dana/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-dziegiel-20aa7793/">LinkedIn</a>
Email <a href="mailto:mickey.mcbride@avoyatravel.com">Mickey McBride</a>
Avoya Travel <a href="avoyanetwork.com">on the web</a>
<hr>
Need advice?ff
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To niche, or not to niche? Finding your agency’s sweet spot (feat. Mickey McBride and Dana Dziegiel)

This week, Trade Secrets is coming to you from the halls of the Aria Resort & Casino at Virtuoso Travel Week. Co-host Jamie Biesiada is joined by guest host Johanna Jainchill, Travel Weekly’s editor in chief, and Virtuoso’s own David Kolner and Misty Belles. They cover the latest luxury travel trends, from the hot fall season to “maxxing” and beyond.

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. 

Further resources

Virtuoso on the web, on Instagram and on TikTok

Email Virtuoso’s public relations department

Mentioned in this episode:
Johanna Jainchill on Trade Secrets After Dark
The Bedford by Martha Stewart
Brené Brown
Travel Weekly’s Virtuoso Travel Week 2026 coverage:
Virtuoso forecasts 2026 sales will be up nearly 21%
Virtuoso unveils AI-powered intelligence tool
The Takeaway: Let’s end these travel trends
At Virtuoso Travel Week, word of another banner year

Need advice?

 

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Trade Secrets is coming to you from the halls of the Aria Resort &amp; Casino at Virtuoso Travel Week. Co-host Jamie Biesiada is joined by guest host Johanna Jainchill, Travel Weekly&rsquo;s editor in chief, and Virtuoso&rsquo;s own David Kolner and Misty Belles. They cover the latest luxury travel trends, from the hot fall season to &ldquo;maxxing&rdquo; and beyond.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">Travel Insured International</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
Virtuoso <a href="https://www.virtuoso.com/">on the web</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/virtuosoltd">on Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@virtuosoltd">on TikTok</a>
Email Virtuoso&rsquo;s <a href="mailto:PR@virtuoso.com">public relations department</a>
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Johanna Jainchill on <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Podcasts/Trade-Secrets/After-Dark-episode-five-editorial-strategy">Trade Secrets After Dark</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.caesars.com/paris-las-vegas/restaurants/the-bedford-by-martha-stewart">The Bedford</a> by Martha Stewart</li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://brenebrown.com/">Bren&eacute; Brown</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Travel Weekly&rsquo;s Virtuoso Travel Week 2026 coverage:</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">Virtuoso forecasts 2026 <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Virtuoso-predicts-2026-sales-will-be-up-20-8-percent-over-2025">sales will be up nearly 21%</a></li>
<li aria-level="2">Virtuoso unveils <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Virtuoso-unveils-new-AI-powered-intelligence-capability">AI-powered intelligence tool</a></li>
<li aria-level="2">The Takeaway: <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Johanna-Jainchill/Lets-end-these-travel-trends">Let&rsquo;s end these travel trends</a></li>
<li aria-level="2">At Virtuoso Travel Week, <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Virtuoso-says-2026-another-banner-year">word of another banner year</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<hr>
Need advice?
&nbsp;
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is fall the new summer? Unpacking luxury travel trends with Virtuoso (feat. David Kolner & Misty Belles)

This week on Trade Secrets, Kimberly Wilson Wetty discusses her transition from being the longtime co-owner and co-president of Valerie Wilson Travel (VWT) to her newest venture, Keep Wondering Why. Wetty reflects honestly on the decision to sell VWT – which was first acquired by another family-owned business before transitioning to ownership by Chase Travel Group – and making the choice to branch out on her own. This episode also delves into Wetty’s passion for ensuring that all travelers feel welcomed and respected.

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International. https://www.travelinsured.com/

Further resources

Kimberly Wilson Wetty on LinkedIn

Keep Wondering Why on the web, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook

Mentioned in this episode:
Valerie Wilson on Humans of Travel
Wilson Wetty’s LinkedIn posts
 Breaking the glass
Don’t crush the butterfly

Need advice?

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Trade Secrets, Kimberly Wilson Wetty discusses her transition from being the longtime co-owner and co-president of Valerie Wilson Travel (VWT) to her newest venture, Keep Wondering Why. Wetty reflects honestly on the decision to sell VWT &ndash; which was first acquired by another family-owned business before transitioning to ownership by Chase Travel Group &ndash; and making the choice to branch out on her own. This episode also delves into Wetty&rsquo;s passion for ensuring that all travelers feel welcomed and respected.
This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">https://www.travelinsured.com/</a>
<hr>
Further resources
Kimberly Wilson Wetty on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlywilsonwetty/">LinkedIn</a>
Keep Wondering Why on the <a href="https://kwwinc.com/">web</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/kwwinspireyourwhy/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kwwinspireyourwhy">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kwwinspireyourwhy">Facebook</a>
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Valerie Wilson on <a href="https://www.travelagewest.com/Podcasts/Humans-of-Travel/Humans-of-Travel-Valerie-Wilson">Humans of Travel</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Wilson Wetty&rsquo;s LinkedIn posts</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kimberlywilsonwetty_generationalreadiness-kww-luxuryconsultant-activity-7458174394717155328-eZZz?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAABLWrEwBipYMyaXk4AKT1tuR_Omwhg5mtS8">Breaking the glass</a></li>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kimberlywilsonwetty_keepwonderingwhy-familybusiness-generationalreadiness-activity-7483581639252430848-UFYh?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAABLWrEwBipYMyaXk4AKT1tuR_Omwhg5mtS8">Don&rsquo;t crush the butterfly</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<hr>
Need advice?
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Breaking the glass:” From family-owned Valerie Wilson Travel to a new homegrown initiative (feat: Kimberly Wilson Wetty)

Inspired by a listener question from travel advisor Megan Vatnsdal, owner of Onyx & Evergreen Travel, Trade Secrets explores what’s going on with travel agency bookings. Join co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada in conversation with Cruise Planners’ Michelle Fee and Oasis Travel Network’s Ryan Ranahan, who offer a birds-eye view of what their advisors are experiencing right now, for the rest of the year and even into 2027 and 2028.

This episode was sponsored by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.

Further resources

Cruise Planners

Oasis Travel Network

Ryan Ranahan on LinkedIn

Need advice?

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inspired by a listener question from travel advisor Megan Vatnsdal, owner of Onyx &amp; Evergreen Travel, Trade Secrets explores what&rsquo;s going on with travel agency bookings. Join co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada in conversation with Cruise Planners&rsquo; Michelle Fee and Oasis Travel Network&rsquo;s Ryan Ranahan, who offer a birds-eye view of what their advisors are experiencing right now, for the rest of the year and even into 2027 and 2028.
This episode was sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.expeditions.com/">National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions</a>.
<hr>
Further resources
<a href="https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/">Cruise Planners</a>
<a href="https://www.oasistravelnetwork.com">Oasis Travel Network</a>
Ryan Ranahan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-ranahan-3b57988/">LinkedIn</a>
<hr>
Need advice?
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are travel bookings slowing down right now? (feat. Michelle Fee and Ryan Ranahan)

The world of entertainment travel can be similar to both luxury leisure and corporate travel, but don’t be fooled: it’s really a beast of its own. This week on Trade Secrets, delve into the world of entertainment travel and everything it entails, from multimillion-dollar contracts and high security clearances to catering to multi-page hotel riders and booking transfers for dogs. Co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada are joined by MD Travel Services’ Michael Dovey, Travel Princess Inc.’s Wendy Nyi-Baylock and ALTx Collective’s Corey Slee, all advisors under Global Travel Collection’s entertainment division. This episode was recorded during GTC’s Arrive conference in Austin in June.

This episode was sponsored by National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions. 

Further resources

ALTx Collective on Instagram

Wendy Nyi-Baylock and Travel Princess Inc. on Instagram

MD Travel Services on the web and Instagram

Need advice?

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world of entertainment travel can be similar to both luxury leisure and corporate travel, but don&rsquo;t be fooled: it&rsquo;s really a beast of its own. This week on Trade Secrets, delve into the world of entertainment travel and everything it entails, from multimillion-dollar contracts and high security clearances to catering to multi-page hotel riders and booking transfers for dogs. Co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada are joined by MD Travel Services&rsquo; Michael Dovey, Travel Princess Inc.&rsquo;s Wendy Nyi-Baylock and ALTx Collective&rsquo;s Corey Slee, all advisors under Global Travel Collection&rsquo;s entertainment division. This episode was recorded during GTC&rsquo;s Arrive conference in Austin in June.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.expeditions.com/">National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/altxcollective">ALTx Collective</a> on Instagram
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelprincess212/">Wendy Nyi-Baylock</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelprincessinc">Travel Princess Inc.</a> on Instagram
MD Travel Services <a href="https://www.mdtravelservices.com/">on the web</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mdtravelltd/">Instagram</a>
<hr>
Need advice?
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the answer is never ‘no’: The world of entertainment travel (Global Travel Collection, part 2)

In this episode of Trade Secrets, recorded in person at Global Travel Collection’s Arrive conference at the Fairmont Austin in June, get an update on all things GTC from president Angie Licea. From the labor of (mostly) love that was the GTC brand unification, uniting several agencies that sell $2.4 billion annually, to the Legacy in Motion program, which helps advisors both grow and sell their businesses, Licea offers an inside look at everything going on at the New York-based host agency. Then, she takes on several listener questions, ranging from breaking into ultra-high-net-worth travel to top holiday destinations. And for those who haven’t seen the ending of “Survivor 50,” beware of a spoiler at the 54:25 mark.

This is the first part in a two-part series of episodes recorded at Arrive. In two weeks, tune in for an episode all about entertainment travel.

This episode was sponsored by Brendan Vacations. 

Further resources

Global Travel Collection on the web

Mentioned in this episode:
Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

The latest from GTC:
Brand unification
TV show “1st Look Presents – Extra Mile Club”
Legacy in Motion program
Circle program
New-to-industry training program

Need advice?

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Trade Secrets, recorded in person at Global Travel Collection&rsquo;s Arrive conference at the Fairmont Austin in June, get an update on all things GTC from president Angie Licea. From the labor of (mostly) love that was the GTC brand unification, uniting several agencies that sell $2.4 billion annually, to the Legacy in Motion program, which helps advisors both grow and sell their businesses, Licea offers an inside look at everything going on at the New York-based host agency. Then, she takes on several listener questions, ranging from breaking into ultra-high-net-worth travel to top holiday destinations. And for those who haven&rsquo;t seen the ending of &ldquo;Survivor 50,&rdquo; beware of a spoiler at the 54:25 mark.
This is the first part in a two-part series of episodes recorded at Arrive. In two weeks, tune in for an episode all about entertainment travel.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.brendanvacations.com/en-us/travel-advisors">Brendan Vacations</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
Global Travel Collection <a href="globaltravelcollection.com">on the web</a>
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Austin&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.austinbats.org/">Congress Avenue Bridge Bats</a></li>
</ul>
The latest from GTC:
<ul>
<ul></ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Global-Travel-Collection-unifies-legacy-brands">Brand unification</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Extra-Mile-Club-showcases-value-travel-advisors">TV show &ldquo;1st Look Presents &ndash; Extra Mile Club&rdquo;</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/GTC-Legacy-in-Motion-helps-advisors-future-plans">Legacy in Motion program</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Global-Travel-Collection-grows-advisor-recognition-program">Circle program</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Global-Travel-Collection-to-offer-training-for-new-advisors">New-to-industry training program</a></li>
</ul>
<hr>
Need advice?
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An inside look at Global Travel Collection, the $2.4 billion powerhouse host agency (part 1, feat. Angie Licea)

Six months into the year, Trade Secrets co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada look at the trends dominating 2026 so far, including shorter booking windows, a younger demographic for all-inclusives and the state of domestic travel. Plus, the hosts share a sneak peek at what’s in store for the rest of season seven.

This episode was sponsored by Brendan Vacations. 

Further resources

The Travel Weekly team

Articles mentioned in this episode:
Travel Weekly’s top stories in the last six months:
Updated: U.S. issues an alert urging caution worldwide for American travelers
Mexico updates: Embassy says cities ‘returned to normal;’ advisors help clients
Norwegian Cruise Line eliminates NCFs, with no strings attached
U.S. considers revised approach to social media screening of foreign travelers
Advisors predict Egypt tourism will suffer due to mixed messages on safety
From Travel Weekly, Global unrest is now clients’ No. 1 concern, travel advisors say
From TravelAge West, Five forces affecting travel choices — including more trust in AI bookings
From Travel Weekly, Travel agencies report a tale of two booking patterns

Need advice?

Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098

Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com 

 

Theme song:

Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six months into the year, Trade Secrets co-hosts Emma Weissmann and Jamie Biesiada look at the trends dominating 2026 so far, including shorter booking windows, a younger demographic for all-inclusives and the state of domestic travel. Plus, the hosts share a sneak peek at what&rsquo;s in store for the rest of season seven.
This episode was sponsored by <a href="https://www.brendanvacations.com/en-us/travel-advisors">Brendan Vacations</a>.&nbsp;
<hr>
Further resources
<a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Contact-Us">The Travel Weekly team</a>
Articles mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Travel Weekly&rsquo;s top stories in the last six months:</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Middle-East-Africa-Travel/us-issues-caution-alert-for-american-travelers">Updated: U.S. issues an alert urging caution worldwide for American travelers</a></li>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Mexico-Travel/Americans-shelter-in-place-in-Puerto-Vallarta-embassy-alert">Mexico updates: Embassy says cities &lsquo;returned to normal;&rsquo; advisors help clients</a></li>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Norwegian-Cruise-Line-eliminates-NCFs">Norwegian Cruise Line eliminates NCFs, with no strings attached</a></li>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Government/US-considers-revised-social-media-screening">U.S. considers revised approach to social media screening of foreign travelers</a></li>
<li aria-level="2"><a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Middle-East-Africa-Travel/travel-to-egypt-following-iran-war-outbreak">Advisors predict Egypt tourism will suffer due to mixed messages on safety</a></li>
</ul>
<li aria-level="1">From Travel Weekly, <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Global-unrest-is-now-clients-No-1-concern">Global unrest is now clients&rsquo; No. 1 concern, travel advisors say</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">From TravelAge West, <a href="https://www.travelagewest.com/Industry-Insight/Business-Features/key-forces-influencing-travel-choices">Five forces affecting travel choices &mdash; including more trust in AI bookings</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">From Travel Weekly, <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/A-tale-of-two-booking-patterns-for-travel-advisors">Travel agencies report a tale of two booking patterns</a></li>
</ul>
<hr>
Need advice?
Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098
Email us: <a href="mailto:tradesecrets@travelweekly.com">tradesecrets@travelweekly.com </a>
&nbsp;
Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
&nbsp;
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Checking in on 2026’s top travel trends

Welcome to Trade Secrets, a podcast from the editors of Travel Weekly, where travel advisors ask -- and answer -- questions. On each podcast, our editors will ask a veteran travel advisor to join them and field listeners’ questions. Topics will range from business advice to industry trends, history and more — as long as it’s travel-related, we want to address it! Find Trade Secrets wherever you get your podcasts, or at travelweekly.com/podcasts.

ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:

Jamie Biesiada is a senior editor with Travel Weekly. She is an award-winning journalist, including being named the American Society of Travel Advisors’ 2019 Travel Journalist of the Year. Her roots are in community journalism, where she was the editor of several local newspapers and a regional entertainment magazine.

Emma Weissmann brings more than a decade of reporting and editing experience to her role as Features Editor at Travel Weekly, where she covers destinations and retail travel and contributes to social media, podcast and multimedia initiatives. Before joining Travel Weekly, Emma served as Editor-in-Chief of AGENTatHOME and Executive Editor of TravelAge West and hosted the Humans of Travel podcast. She also helped create and produce the Future Leaders in Travel event for early-career travel advisors.


Theme song:
Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information

Welcome to Trade Secrets, a podcast from the editors of Travel Weekly, where travel advisors ask -- and answer -- questions. On each podcast, our editors will ask a veteran travel advisor to join them and field listeners&rsquo; questions. Topics will range from business advice to industry trends, history and more &mdash; as long as it&rsquo;s travel-related, we want to address it! Find Trade Secrets wherever you get your podcasts, or at <a href="http://travelweekly.com/podcasts">travelweekly.com/podcasts</a>.
<hr>
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:
Jamie Biesiada is a senior editor with Travel Weekly. She is an award-winning journalist, including being named the American Society of Travel Advisors&rsquo; 2019 Travel Journalist of the Year. Her roots are in community journalism, where she was the editor of several local newspapers and a regional entertainment magazine.
Emma Weissmann brings more than a decade of reporting and editing experience to her role as Features Editor at Travel Weekly, where she covers destinations and retail travel and contributes to social media, podcast and multimedia initiatives. Before joining Travel Weekly, Emma served as Editor-in-Chief of AGENTatHOME and Executive Editor of TravelAge West and hosted the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.travelagewest.com/Podcasts/Humans-of-travel">Humans of Travel</a> podcast. She also helped create and produce the Future Leaders in Travel event for early-career travel advisors.
<hr>
 Theme song: Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod Link: <a href="https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop">https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop</a> License: <a href="https://filmmusic.io/standard-license">https://filmmusic.io/standard-license</a>
<hr>
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information

Trade Secrets

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