Danielle Finch

Founder & CEO

Equera

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/danielle-finch/

Mission-driven and people-centered leader with 10+ years of experience driving global initiatives in operations, product, and project management. Passionate about creating scalable solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities, combining strategic execution with empathy-led leadership. Proven track record of mobilizing teams, fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders, and delivering measurable social and organizational impact through innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth.

Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Danielle Finch, founder and CEO of Equera, a SaaS platform that promotes community-based tourism. Danielle shares her journey from a childhood influenced by international students to her first travels abroad, her education in business and sociology, and her corporate experiences at Michelin. She discusses the challenges of moving to Berlin during the pandemic, the importance of vulnerability in adapting to new cultures, and her insights on customer experience in the travel industry. Danielle's story is one of passion, purpose, and the desire to make the world feel smaller through meaningful connections. In this conversation, Danielle shares her journey of discovering her purpose through literature and personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of community-based tourism and equity in the travel industry. She discusses her transition from a corporate job to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a community-based tourism platform, and the complexities of volunteerism. Danielle highlights the need for professionalization in community-based tourism and the importance of mentorship and support in her entrepreneurial journey.

Takeaways

• Equera is a SaaS platform for community-based tourism.
• Danielle's childhood experiences shaped her passion for travel.
• International students influenced Danielle's worldview.
• Her first trip abroad was to Kenya at age 22.
• Danielle studied business and sociology at Purdue University.
• She transitioned from corporate roles to focus on customer experience.
• Moving to Berlin during the pandemic was challenging but rewarding.
• Vulnerability is key when adapting to a new culture.
• Working at Michelin taught her about digital transformation.
• Danielle's current role focuses on enhancing customer experience in travel. Everyone has a purpose that needs to be uncovered.
• Using technology for social impact is crucial.
• Community-based tourism can empower local communities.
• Quitting a stable job can lead to fulfilling opportunities.
• Traveling can provide valuable insights into community needs.
• Professionalizing community-based tourism is essential for growth.
• Volunteerism should be approached with equality in mind.
• Building trust is key in community-based tourism.
• The tourism industry needs to focus on local ownership.
• Mentorship is invaluable for entrepreneurs.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Emma Valahu
Founder
Inbox Journeys

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/emma-valahu/

Emma is the founder of Inbox Journeys and helps experiential travel founders build an automated system that turns website visitors and social media followers into warm, qualified leads—without them having to manually nurture every prospect.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Emma Valahu, founder of Inbox Journeys, about her journey in transformational travel and education. Emma shares her experiences living in various countries, including Ecuador and Romania, and discusses the importance of capturing potential customers early in their travel journey. The conversation delves into Emma's decision to homeschool her children, the challenges of balancing family life with travel, and her philosophy on education and curiosity. Emma's story is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the importance of following one's passions. In this conversation, Emma Valahu shares her journey from teaching English online to becoming a business consultant for tour operators. She discusses the importance of effective communication in the tourism industry, the challenges of relying on word-of-mouth marketing, and the critical role of email marketing in building trust and relationships with customers. Emma emphasizes the need for businesses to create valuable lead magnets to attract the right audience and overcome the emotional hurdles associated with unsubscribes. The discussion highlights the significance of nurturing customer relationships through consistent and meaningful communication.

takeaways

• Transformational travel begins before booking.
• Capturing potential customers early is crucial.
• Emma's journey reflects a passion for travel and education.
• Teaching English abroad opened new opportunities.
• Homeschooling was a response to traditional education pressures.
• Family dynamics influenced Emma's career choices.
• Living in Ecuador felt like home for Emma.
• Nature plays a significant role in Emma's life.
• Balancing travel desires with family responsibilities is challenging.
• Education should foster curiosity and a love for learning. Emma transitioned from teaching English online to consulting for tour operators.
• Effective communication is crucial for tour operators to connect with international clients.
• Relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing is not sustainable for businesses.
• Email marketing offers the highest return on investment compared to other marketing strategies.
• Building trust with customers requires multiple touchpoints and valuable content.
• Unsubscribes can be emotionally challenging for business owners, but they are a natural part of email marketing.
• Lead magnets should provide real value to attract the right audience.
• Understanding your target audience is essential for creating effective marketing strategies.
• Businesses should focus on nurturing relationships rather than just making sales.
• Transforming potential customers through valuable content is key to successful marketing.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Christopher Hill

Founder and CEO

Hands Up Holidays

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/christopher-hill/

Christopher is founder of luxury philanthropic travel brands Hands Up Holidays and Impact Destinations, and serves his majority US-based clients from New Zealand where he lives with his wife, two boys, and dog, Zola.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Christopher Hill, founder of Hands Up Holidays and Impact Destinations. They discuss the unique travel experiences offered by these organizations, which combine adventure with community service. Christopher shares his journey from a finance career to creating meaningful travel opportunities, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experiences and cultural engagement. The conversation also touches on the significance of overseas experiences for New Zealanders, the transformative power of travel, and the responsible approach to tourism that benefits local communities.

takeaways

• Hands Up Holidays focuses on family trips that combine sightseeing with service projects.
• Impact Destinations allows travelers to engage in unique experiences while supporting local communities.
• Christopher's journey into travel was inspired by a transformative trip to South Africa.
• New Zealanders often take gap years to travel and gain overseas experience.
• Encouraging children to travel and volunteer can lead to personal growth and understanding.
• Hands-on experiences can be the highlight of a trip, fostering connections with local communities.
• Travel can change perspectives and inspire individuals to make a difference.
• The majority of clients are families, but solo travelers and couples are also welcomed.
• Responsible tourism involves engaging with communities and ensuring their needs are met.
• Christopher personally handles inquiries, emphasizing a personal touch in his business.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Karl Wilder

Founder & Director

The Chef Tours

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/karl-wilder/

Chef Karl Wilder is a culinary innovator whose career spans continents and cuisines. From his roots in New Orleans, where he reimagined Southern classics at The Country Club, to launching the acclaimed Empire Biscuit in New York City, Wilder has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional cooking.

Previously, with both Eating Europe and Secret Food tours, he, along with PJ, set out to redefine what food tourism means. His passion for authentic, immersive food experiences led him to co-found The Chef Tours, offering intimate culinary journeys in cities like Paris, Seville, Istanbul and Berlin. In Berlin, his tours blend historical exploration with gourmet dining, reinventing food tourism.

Beyond the kitchen, Wilder is an advocate for food accessibility, having undertaken a project to live on a food stamp budget to raise awareness about food insecurity. He’s also an author, with his novel It’s Not Always Murder published in 2024, You Can Get A Man With A Gun published in 2025, both by Vintage Pulp Press.

Based in Berlin, Chef Karl Wilder continues to craft experiences that are as rich in story as they are in flavour, inviting travellers to taste the world through his unique lens. He is the proud human father of Milou, the company mascot.

Summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins reconnects with Karl Wilder, the director of The Chef Tours, to discuss the unique culinary experiences offered through personalized food tours. Karl shares insights into The Chef Tours model, emphasizing the importance of connection and storytelling in creating memorable experiences for guests. The conversation explores Karl's journey to becoming a chef, the cultural significance of food, and the role of tourism in fostering understanding between different communities. Karl also highlights the upcoming confidential tours in Mexico City, which promise exclusive culinary adventures that showcase the local culture.

takeaways

• The Chef Tours offers personalized culinary experiences with a maximum of six guests.
• The tours focus on storytelling and connecting guests with local chefs.
• Karl's journey to becoming a chef was influenced by his early cooking experiences and passion for food.
• Food can serve as a bridge to understanding different cultures and perspectives.
• Tourism can play a significant role in conflict resolution by fostering economic ties and human connections.
• The Chef Tours model differs from traditional tours by prioritizing personal connections over scripted experiences.
• Guests often leave feeling like they've made friends rather than just taking a tour.
• Karl emphasizes the importance of adapting tours to meet the needs of diverse guests.
• The upcoming confidential tours in Mexico City will showcase hidden culinary gems not found in typical tourist guides.
• Karl's experiences in various countries have shaped his understanding of food as a universal connector.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Samantha Smits

Founder & Sustainable Tourism Consultant

Smits SusTour Consultancy

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/samantha-smits/

Hoi! I’m Samantha Smits, a Sustainable Tourism Consultant based in the Netherlands and Tanzania. My goal? To empower you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to create real change.

Originally from the Netherlands, I studied International Tourism Management at Breda University of Applied Sciences and earned a master’s degree in Tourism, Society, and Environment from Wageningen University & Research.

I’m deeply involved in supporting community-based tourism initiatives, championing local businesses, and preserving cultural heritage. Oh, and I absolutely love dogs!

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Samantha Smits, founder of Smits Sustour Consultancy, about her journey into sustainable tourism consulting. Samantha shares her early influences, including her experiences in Cub Scouts and her passion for travel and cultural exchange. She discusses her internship in Tanzania, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the importance of myth-busting in sustainability consulting. Samantha emphasizes the need for practical, accessible solutions for tour operators and accommodation providers to embrace sustainability without feeling overwhelmed. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in promoting sustainable practices and the importance of reducing carbon emissions over merely purchasing carbon credits.

takeaways

• Samantha's consultancy focuses on making sustainability accessible for tourism providers.
• Her journey into sustainability began with her experiences in Cub Scouts.
• Education and cultural curiosity played a significant role in her career path.
• Traveling to Tanzania for her internship was a transformative experience.
• Living in Tanzania presented both challenges and opportunities for personal growth.
• Sustainability consulting involves a lot of myth-busting and education.
• It's essential to empower local businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
• Reducing carbon emissions is more impactful than just buying carbon credits.
• Samantha aims to create a relaxed and approachable atmosphere in her consulting work.
• Storytelling is crucial for differentiating sustainable tourism operators.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Siham Lahmine

Owner & Cultural Curator, Morocco's First Local >> Woman-Owned Culinary & Luxury Heritage Tours

Morocco Travel Organizer

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/siham-lahmine

Siham Lahmine is the mastermind behind Morocco Travel Organizer. Recognized for her talents in luxury bespoke travel experiences, she creates fully immersive tours showcasing Morocco’s highlights, cultural richness, and culinary delights. As a local expert, she leaves no stone unturned when it comes to exploring the country’s uniqueness.

Siham Lamine is a leading Moroccan cuisine expert with over 10 years of experience leading culinary adventures across Morocco and Fes. She has a deep knowledge and understanding of the country’s culinary heritage and traditions, allowing you to experience them through her in-depth and immersive tours. Additionally, Ms. Lahmine brings travelers on a historic food journey across the Medina’s souks. Finally, she has hosted renowned Chef Ainsley Harriot known for his BBC cooking game shows Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook, and Ready, Steady, Cook among other famous names.

summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins speaks with Siham Lahmine, a cultural curator and owner of Morocco Travel Organizer. They discuss the unique challenges faced by women in the Moroccan tourism industry, the cultural significance of food in Moroccan society, and Siham's personal journey from a passion for food to establishing her own culinary tourism business. The conversation delves into the importance of community, family influence, and the stories behind Moroccan cuisine, as well as the realities of working in tourism and advice for aspiring professionals.

takeaways

• Siham is the owner of Morocco Travel Organizer, focusing on culinary and luxury heritage tours.
• Women in Morocco face unique challenges in the tourism industry, often dominated by men.
• Culinary experiences are a way to share Moroccan culture and heritage.
• Food is a central part of Moroccan identity and community bonding.
• Siham's passion for food was influenced by her family, especially her mother and grandmother.
• Travelers appreciate learning about food stories and cultural rituals during tours.
• Traditional Moroccan dishes require time and effort to prepare, reflecting love and care.
• Siham emphasizes the importance of personality over formal tourism education in the industry.
• The role of women in tourism is evolving, but cultural expectations still pose challenges.
• Siham encourages aspiring tourism professionals to experience the industry before committing to it.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Peter Syme

Partner

Tourpreneur

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/peter-syme/

Peter Syme. Ex military, Ex Large Corporate, Ex Tour Operators of multiple travel businesses in several countries. World wanderer and adventure addict, having visited over 140 countries. Now spending time building the world's largest community of tour operators with the aim of making them more profitable. To do so we work in the intersection of operators, technology and platforms.

summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins interviews Pete Syme, a partner at Tourpreneur, discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by tour operators in the tourism industry. They explore the importance of community, marketing strategies, and the need for business acumen among operators. Pete shares his background in the military and corporate sectors, emphasizing the significance of networking and understanding customer profiles. The conversation highlights the fragmented nature of the travel industry and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to join the field.

takeaways

• Tourpreneur is a community of tour operators across various sectors.
• The community helps operators navigate challenges and improve their businesses.
• Loneliness is a common issue for small tour operators.
• Many operators lack formal training in business management.
• The travel industry is worth approximately $254 billion.
• Marketing is crucial for success in the tour operation business.
• Product quality is essential but not the only factor for success.
• Networking and partnerships can significantly impact business growth.
• Understanding customer profiles is vital for effective marketing.
• The travel industry is fragmented, offering opportunities for new entrants.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Tamuna Tabidze

Director

Magic Roads Georgia

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/tamuna-tabidze

Director of the local branch of International tourism holding Magic Travels, previously Sales Manager with extensive experience of Business to Business Sales, working as Head of South Europe and Latin America Markets, later on North and Eastern Europe, MICE Department and as Chief Executive of Luxury department. With comprehensive knowledge of Georgian hospitality industry. Working experience at one of the leading Georgian hotel of International chain and local brands. Skilled at Sales, Branding, Operations Management, Event Management, International Relations and Marketing field with advanced knowledge of English, Italian, Russian and Spanish, Portuguese languages, expert of Intercultural communications.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Tamuna Tabidze, the director of Magic Roads Georgia, about the unique tourism opportunities in Georgia. They discuss the country's rich history, culture, and hospitality, as well as the role of destination management companies (DMCs) in creating memorable travel experiences. Tamuna shares her personal journey into the tourism industry, the safety and security of traveling in Georgia, and the ease of entry for international visitors. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in hospitality and the dedicated team behind Magic Roads Georgia, highlighting the importance of creativity and client satisfaction in the tourism sector.

takeaways

• Magic Roads Georgia focuses on creating memorable travel experiences.
• Georgia is a small country with a rich history and culture.
• The country is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
• Georgia is known for its hospitality and welcoming nature.
• Visa requirements for Georgia are minimal for many countries.
• Traveling between Georgia and its neighbors can be complex but is manageable.
• Tamuna's passion for tourism stems from her childhood experiences.
• Post-Soviet Georgia has shaped the current tourism landscape.
• Cultural differences affect how hospitality is expressed in Georgia.
• Magic Roads Georgia has a dedicated team that values creativity and client satisfaction.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.