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

Together, they dive into:

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

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

Connect with Us:

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

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

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

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

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

What You’ll Learn:

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

Resources Mentioned:

• Create your free Wanderlust Campus Account

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

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

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

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

What You’ll Learn:

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

Sound Bites:

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

Resources Mentioned:

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

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

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

VISIT TERN IN THE WLC PARTNER PORTAL

Show Notes :

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

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

Summary

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

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

Chapters

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

LINKS :

Wanderlust Campus

Wanderlust Campus's Instagram

Wanderlust Campus Facebook Group

Suitcase Designs

Join Kelli Hayes Smith and Jonathan Morris of Legato host as they explore the exciting possibilities of becoming a travel agent in today's vibrant market. Together, they dispel the myth that succeeding as a travel agent is a thing of the past and affirm that it's absolutely achievable. Discover the immense value that travel agents bring, especially to millennials who appreciate their expertise and personalized service.

They dive into the challenges new agents face, such as industry fragmentation and the importance of finding a niche. They also emphasize the power of community over competition and the necessity for agents to embrace technology and deliver exceptional service.

Travel agent, becoming an agent, market potential, value of travel agents, specialization, industry fragmentation, community over competition, technology, exceptional service

• Becoming a travel agent is still a viable and rewarding career choice.
• Millennials highly value the expertise and personalized service travel agents provide.
• Specializing in a niche can help agents distinguish themselves and deliver superior service.
• While the industry is fragmented, leveraging technology and systems can help navigate this complexity.
• Embracing collaboration and fostering community over competition is key to success.
• Providing excellent service and staying adaptable to new technologies is essential to meet the needs of modern travelers.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Is it Still Possible to Become a Travel Agent? 03:10 - The Value of Using a Travel Agent in Today's Market 09:48 - Navigating the Fragmented Travel Industry 13:09 - Specializing in a Niche to Stand Out as an Agent 19:21 - The Importance of Collaboration and Community in the Travel Industry 28:22 - Avoiding MLM Agencies and Ensuring Data Security 34:01 - Choosing the Right Host Agency and Training

Episode Highlight

Join Kelli Hayes Smith as she sits down with Jen Haslacker, the dynamic Sales Director for Host Agency Partnerships at Arch Roam Right, to delve into the crucial role travel insurance plays for both travelers and travel advisors.

Listen to Kelli and Jen as they explore the numerous benefits of travel insurance, from post-departure coverage and medical benefits to protection against trip cancellations and delays.

Jen emphasizes why recommending travel insurance is essential for travel advisors to safeguard their clients and their own businesses.

She also shares insightful tips on selecting the right insurance company, presenting insurance options to clients, and effectively handling claims.

Additionally, the episode touches on the importance of commission protection and showcases some fascinating stories of unexpected claims.

• Travel Insurance
• Post-Departure Benefits
• Medical Coverage
• Trip Cancellation
• Travel Advisor
• Commission Protection

• Comprehensive Protection: Travel insurance offers vital post-departure benefits, including medical coverage, trip delay assistance, lost baggage recovery, and political and security evacuation.
• Advisor's Responsibility: It's imperative for travel advisors to recommend travel insurance to shield their clients and themselves from potential legal issues.
• Choosing Wisely: When selecting a travel insurance company, seek referrals, consider their claims turnaround time, and opt for companies rated A+ or higher by AM Best.
• Referral Policy: Travel advisors should direct insurance-related queries to the insurance company and avoid guaranteeing coverage themselves.
• Annual Plans Insight: Annual travel insurance plans might be more cost-effective but often come with reduced coverage limits.
• Commission Protection: Some insurance policies include commission protection, ensuring travel advisors receive their commission even if a client cancels their trip.

• 00:00 - Introduction and Background
• 03:14 - Understanding the Benefits of Travel Insurance
• 07:27 - Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance Company
• 09:29 - Presenting Travel Insurance Options to Clients
• 20:33 - Unexpected Stories of Covered Claims

Tune in for an inspiring and informative episode that highlights the indispensable value of travel insurance, ensuring you and your clients are well-protected and prepared for any journey!