Area/Topic
Worldwide, Expedition Cruises, Adventure Tourism Industry, Business

Todd Smith
Founder & President
AdventureSmith Explorations

Inspired by his grandfather to camp and travel the world, Todd’s wanderlust started early. A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment changed his outlook on life, instilling at an early age a precious perspective to live life to the fullest. Launching his career as a naturalist guide in Alaska and Baja California, Todd gained firsthand experience operating expedition cruises and learned what it takes to exceed traveler expectations. He was instrumental in pioneering early adventure cruises with Zodiacs, kayaks and professional expedition leaders. Connecting travelers to the wilderness and conservation became his lifelong passion and the foundation of his successful adventure travel company, AdventureSmith Explorations, established in 2003.

Todd has been named a Top Travel Specialist on Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Top Travel Specialists List 11 times, and has been featured on television shows such as Lonely Planet and Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures. He’s an elected board member of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association) and an advocate for sustainable travel initiatives worldwide.

https://adventuresmithexplorations.com/

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Todd Smith, founder and president of Adventure Smith Explorations. Todd shares his journey from the ski industry to adventure travel, discussing the evolution of expedition cruising and the importance of small ship experiences. The conversation delves into the changing dynamics of the cruise industry, personal influences that shaped Todd's career, and the significance of relationships in the travel business. They also explore current trends in expedition cruising, including the appeal of the Arctic and Northern Lights, and the benefits of working with Adventure Smith for planning travel adventures.

takeaways

• Todd's journey into adventure travel began after college in the ski industry.
• The evolution of expedition cruising has created a niche market for small ship experiences.
• Small ships allow for deeper exploration of destinations compared to large cruise ships.
• Relationships with clients, staff, and partners are crucial for success in the travel industry.
• The pandemic taught the importance of maintaining strong relationships in business.
• Diversification in travel offerings can help mitigate risks associated with regional conflicts.
• The Arctic and Northern Lights are becoming increasingly popular travel destinations.
• New luxury expedition ships are changing the landscape of adventure travel.
• Adventure Smith offers personalized service without additional costs compared to booking directly.
• The auroral cycle's peak presents unique opportunities for travelers to experience the Northern Lights.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Technology Trends & Tourism

Sebastian Riedel
CEO
Oasis Travel Platform

Sebastian is the CEO of the Oasis Travel Platform, a company dedicated to streamlining travel operations for businesses. From an early age, Sebastian’s life was shaped by his passion for travel, which led him to transition from a successful career in technology to the travel industry. He co-founded Global Basecamps, an international tour operator that offers unique, authentic travel experiences.

Through Oasis, Sebastian combines his expertise in technology with his love for exploration, offering a solution that simplifies travel logistics while enhancing the overall experience for companies. His focus remains on the human connections and meaningful experiences that make travel a powerful force for personal and professional growth.

https://myoasisapp.com/

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Sebastian Riedel, CEO of the Oasis Travel Platform. They discuss Sebastian's journey from a childhood filled with travel to his career in the travel industry. The conversation explores the evolution of travel experiences, the importance of human connection, and the challenges of maintaining relationships while pursuing a travel-centric lifestyle. Sebastian shares insights on starting Global Basecamps and the development of Oasis, a platform designed to streamline travel operations for companies. The episode emphasizes the significance of creating meaningful travel experiences and the impact of technology on the travel industry.

takeaways

• Travel has been a significant part of Sebastian's life since childhood.
• Sebastian transitioned from a tech-heavy career to the travel industry.
• The excitement of travel has changed with technology.
• Human connection is a vital aspect of travel experiences.
• Traveling is about creating memories rather than accumulating things.
• The challenges of a travel lifestyle can impact personal relationships.
• Finding a travel partner who shares your wanderlust is crucial.
• Global Basecamps was founded to provide unique travel experiences.
• Oasis was developed to streamline travel operations for companies.
• The importance of adapting to changes in the travel industry.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Mexico, Latin America, Business

Alex Veka
Founder
Vibe Adventures

Passionate traveler, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner on a mission to make authentic, responsible, and mind-broadening travel accessible to adventurers and curious souls worldwide.

"Originally from Belarus, I've lived, studied, and worked in seven countries before finding my second home in Mexico. With over 50 countries visited and counting, I'm a perpetual learner, speaking several languages and deeply interested in history, geography, and cultures. Armed with a formal Ph.D. and countless lessons from the "university of life," I'm now channeling my passion into running Vibe Adventures, a travel startup offering a simpler way of booking adventure holidays worldwide."

https://vibeadventures.com/

summary
Alex Veka, founder of Vibe Adventures, shares his journey from being a passionate traveler to starting his own travel company. He was inspired by childhood experiences, including participating in programs for Belarusian kids affected by the Chernobyl disaster and traveling to the Netherlands. Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and eventually work in the travel industry. He met his Mexican wife in China and they embarked on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina, which laid the foundation for Vibe Adventures. Alex's passion for travel and technology drives his goal of making booking experiences easier. Alex Veka discusses his experiences in travel and tourism, from working in hospitality to starting his own adventure travel company, Vibe Adventures. He shares his love for Mexico and the vibrant life it offers. Alex also talks about his mission to simplify and make it easier for people to book adventure holidays worldwide. He highlights the importance of providing authentic local experiences and the need to cater to the changing preferences of millennial and post-millennial travelers. Alex mentions his future plans to add an agent portal to his platform and create a dynamic packaging feature that combines flights with multi-day adventures.

takeaways

• Childhood experiences, such as participating in programs for Chernobyl-affected kids and traveling to the Netherlands, sparked Alex's passion for travel.
• Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and work in the travel industry.
• Meeting his Mexican wife in China and embarking on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina inspired the creation of Vibe Adventures.
• Alex's goal is to make booking experiences easier through the use of technology. Traveling to different countries and experiencing different cultures can be a dynamic and exciting adventure.
• The hospitality industry can be limiting in terms of career growth and flexibility.
• Starting your own business in the travel industry allows for more freedom and the opportunity to create unique experiences for travelers.
• There is a need for simplifying the booking process for adventure holidays and providing authentic local experiences.
• Millennial and post-millennial travelers prefer independent and customizable travel experiences.
• The future of travel booking involves combining flights with multi-day adventures through dynamic packaging.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Africa, Safaris, Conservation, Guiding

Ant Kaschula
Founder
Private Guided Safaris

I am a born & bred, fourth generation Zimbabwean who's professional guiding career spans more than two decades. I have travelled the length and breadth of the African continent and I have guided or lead safaris or expeditions in twenty-one different African countries.

As the holder of the most highly respected professional guiding qualification in the world coupled with a Masters degree in Ecology and interests ranging from Botany, Bushcrafts & Fly Fishing to Entomology & Recreational Flying, provides me with the background to impart an incredible breadth & depth of knowledge to my guests.

I am an ExCo member of the Zimbabwe Professional Guide's Association and am involved in ensuring the high levels of training and examining of the next generation of professional guides is maintained.

I have a ceaselessly questioning mind and as per one of my mentor’s sayings – have, eyes for seeing and not just looking, which means that very little goes undetected by my radar and no stone is left unturned in my quest to provide my guests with that 'perfect moment’.

In terms of being a specialist, I am most happy whilst leading walking safaris through big game areas and particularly enjoy spending time with elephants on foot.

Having had the privilege of spending much of my adult life exploring the continent’s wildest landscapes, what has become more and more apparent are the threats faced by these rapidly diminishing refuges. Truly passionate and dedicated to the long term safeguarding of these areas, I tend to direct my support, and that of some of my philanthropic guests, towards protected areas which are managed by organizations that are moving the needle in terms of protecting Africa’s remaining wild spaces.

https://www.privateguidedsafaris.com/

summary
Ant Kaschula, founder of Private Guided Safaris, shares his journey and passion for the African wilderness. He explains why he chose the name Private Guided Safaris instead of using his own name, highlighting the importance of providing a high level of service rather than focusing on an individual. Ant discusses his early experiences in the bush and how they shaped his career as a safari guide. He also talks about the boarding school experience and the strong bonds formed with friends during that time. Ant emphasizes the unique opportunities for walking safaris in Zimbabwe and the intimate and personal experiences they offer. Ant Kaschula emphasizes the importance of having a private guide on a safari trip, as they provide personalized service and create a unique and unforgettable experience. He highlights the value of staying in remote and exclusive locations, where guests can have a more intimate and authentic wildlife encounter. Ant also discusses the benefits of direct communication between the travel agent, the guide, and the clients, as it allows for better coordination and customization of the itinerary. He encourages travelers to be open-minded and trust the expertise of their guide when planning their safari adventure.

takeaways

• Choosing a business name that focuses on providing a high level of service rather than an individual can be beneficial for future growth and scalability.
• Early experiences in the bush can have a profound impact on shaping a career in safari guiding.
• Boarding school can provide unique opportunities for personal growth and strong friendships.
• Zimbabwe offers exceptional opportunities for wal

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Trekking, Lifestyle

Jim Young
Founder & Director
Adventurous Ewe

From the heart of Snowdonia in North Wales, Jim founded Adventurous Ewe after years of guiding overland expeditions and trekking through many remote patches of the planet. This combined with his profound passion for and knowledge of the world’s diverse environments, wildlife, cultures, and customs have equipped him with many stories to share.

Having lived and led expeditions across the rugged terrains of Africa, the mystical landscapes of Asia, and the vibrant locales of South America, Jim's experiences are as rich and varied as the destinations he explores. His charisma and familiarity with these regions, especially Morocco, make him something of a local celebrity, greeted warmly with endless handshakes and the familiar chants of "Jim!" echoing through the dusty streets of Imlil.

An accomplished high altitude guide, Jim holds a plethora of certifications, including Mountain Leader, Mountain Bike Leader, and Advanced Wilderness First Aid. He is also a certified 4-Star Level 2 Kayak Instructor, Rescue Boat Operator, and skilled bike mechanic. Despite his extensive qualifications, Jim is equally known for his hearty laughter and the occasional 'really bad' joke, bringing lightness and joy to every expedition.

At the heart of Jim's philosophy is a commitment to crafting unique, thrilling travel itineraries that go beyond standard travel packages. He thrives on creating experiences that are not only adventurous but also deeply connective, allowing travelers to explore the soul of each destination. When he's not scaling mountains or charting new, unexplored routes, Jim indulges in his love for sea kayaking, kite surfing, and journeying through the world’s wildest places. Accompanying him on many of his adventures is his beloved dog, Moshi, a steadfast companion in both spirit and adventure. Jim's life is a testament to the belief that travel should be more than just visiting a place; it should be an immersive journey that transforms and inspires.

https://www.adventurousewe.co.uk/

summary
Jim Young, founder and director of Adventurous Ewe, shares his journey from working in the family business to becoming an adventure travel leader. He started with overland trips in Africa and then expanded to South America, the Middle East, and Asia. Jim recounts some of his most challenging adventures, including driving on the Friendship Highway from Kathmandu to Beijing and getting stuck in the Tibetan Plateau. He also discusses the transformative experiences of his guests, who often start out nervous and unsure but grow in confidence and resilience throughout the trip. Jim emphasizes the importance of breaking down challenges into smaller parts and enjoying the journey. Jim Young shares his experiences in the travel industry, including the challenges and rewards of running a travel business. He emphasizes the importance of following your passion and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Jim also discusses the impact of travel on mental health and the value of experiencing different cultures. He shares his excitement for new trips and itineraries, including cycling in Rwanda and treks to K2 Basecamp and Norway/Sweden. Overall, Jim's message is to embrace adventure and take the leap to explore the world.

takeaways

• Adventure travel can be a transformative experience, allowing individuals to grow in confidence and resilience.
• Breaking down challenges into smaller parts can help manage feelings of overwhelm and allow for a

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Central Asia, Middle East

Marc Leaderman
Product & Operations Director
Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel

When I was younger we never journeyed anywhere as a family, so my love of travel really started at university when I spent one summer teaching English in Romania, in what turned out to be one of the most transformative trips I have ever experienced. It was just after the fall of communism and it was a real eye-opener for me to see people, the same age as me, living such different lifestyles - something I’d only really glimpsed on the news. They had all lived through the turmoil and violence of the events of 1989, so meeting them and hearing their stories really piqued my interest in the wider world.

After graduating, I taught English in Japan and then I went to Australia, where I spent some time as a door-to-door salesman. When I eventually came home, it was short-lived - I spent the next ten years as a UK tax-exile, tour-leading in over 60 countries from North Korea to Mali. On one occasion where I returned to London, I met Jonny. I thought I’d been to some of the most adventurous places out there before I met him! I attended one of Jonny’s talks on Afghanistan and he thought I was spying for a rival travel company, but I was just interested in what Wild Frontiers did and now I head up the Product and Operations department (and also, regrettably, have to pay tax!)

With my product hat on, I’m always looking at new areas to which we can travel - a role which is endlessly exciting, especially as the world changes. It’s important that we keep that Wild Frontiers’ edge on emerging destinations. But it’s also about visiting familiar places in new ways.

From the operational side, it’s really about managing the constant challenges that come up on tours, the ever changing rules and regulations and just making sure that everything on the road happens as planned. It’s no easy task and assuredly a 24/7 job as we will almost always have several clients travelling at any given time to one of the 90+ destinations we offer.

https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/

summary
In this conversation, Jason Elkins interviews Marc Leaderman, the product and operations director for Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel. Marc shares his journey from a childhood with limited travel experiences to becoming a tour leader and exploring different countries. He talks about the importance of pushing boundaries and trying new things, as well as the impact of travel on one's perspective and happiness. They also discuss the changes in the travel industry over the years, including the use of technology and the challenges of staying present with clients. In this conversation, Marc shares his experiences as a tour guide and the challenges of balancing customer expectations with sustainable tourism practices. He discusses the importance of finding a balance between popular tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Marc also highlights the impact of technology and social media on the rapid growth of new destinations and the challenges of over-tourism. He emphasizes the need for respect and collaboration with local communities and the responsibility of tour operators to provide a positive and sustainable travel experience. Marc concludes by sharing the power of travel in fostering understanding and breaking down cultural barriers.

takeaways

• Travel experiences can have a profound impact on one's perspective and happiness.
• Pushing boundaries and trying new things can lead to personal growth and self-dis

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Africa, Safaris, Conservation, Business

Alan Feldstein
Founder & Owner
Infinite Safari Adventures

For two decades, Alan Feldstein worked as a successful entertainment and marketing/advertising attorney in Los Angeles. In 2000 after racking up 450,000 frequent flyer miles he asked his wife where she wanted to go in the world. She replied “I have always wanted to go on a safari in Africa”. That trip to Africa it changed his life. In 2005 he summited Mt. Kilimanjaro and then tracked chimps in the Mahale Mountains. It was there he met his future East African Ground Partner who shared a love of kayaking. In 2008 he took his children to Africa and on that trip became one of the first people to kayak off the coast of Tanzania. It was there and then that he decidedto leave the practice of law and share his passion for Africa and adventure to create Infinite Safari Adventures.

Alan is a member of the Adventurer’s Club of Los Angeles and the international Explorers Club where he was the Southern California Chapter Chair. He also sits on the boards of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, Saving The Survivors, and The Bird School Project. In 2023 he and his wife, Journalist Diane Haithman, founded the Infinite Safari Foundation which is dedicated to humanitarian, educational and conservation initiatives in Africa. It is funded, in part, from a donation of the cost of each Infinite Safari Adventure safari that is created. He is also the author of The Best African Safari - Tips from an Obsessive Planner a definitive guide to help people plan their best safari.

https://www.infinitesafariadventures.com/

summary
Alan Feldstein, founder of Infinite Safari Adventures, shares his journey from being a lawyer to starting a safari company in Africa. His passion for travel and adventure led him to explore different parts of the world, including Africa. He fell in love with the wildlife and the people of Africa, which inspired him to start his own safari company. Alan emphasizes the transformative experience of visiting Africa and the importance of unplugging from technology to fully immerse oneself in the beauty of the continent. He also highlights the positive impact of tourism on local communities and the need for responsible travel. The conversation explores the importance of tourism in Africa for conservation and community development. It highlights the role of tourism in inspiring governments to prioritize conservation and the economic benefits it brings to local communities. Human-wildlife conflict is identified as a major challenge, and various solutions such as education, community involvement, and innovative technologies are discussed. The conversation also touches on the issue of overtourism and the need for responsible tourism practices. The personal connections and cultural experiences that travelers can have in Africa are emphasized, along with the reminder to seize the opportunity to visit Africa now.

takeaways

• Passion for travel and adventure can lead to unexpected opportunities and career paths.
• Africa offers a transformative experience for travelers of all ages.
• Unplugging from technology allows for a deeper connection with nature and the local culture.
• Tourism plays a crucial role in supporting local communities and economies in Africa. Tourism plays a crucial role in inspiring governments to prioritize conservation and in providing economic benefits to local communities in Africa.
• Human-wildlife conflict is a major challenge that needs to be addressed through educatio

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Guiding, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Artificial Intelligence for Tour Operators

Jason Halberstadt
Founder and CEO
MyTrip.AI

Jason Halberstadt has been helping tour operators innovate online and grow their businesses since the dawn of the Internet in the 1990's when he moved to Ecuador from the US and started a digital marketing agency specialized in travel. He launched MyTrip.AI in 2023 to develop AI software and services to help small and medium-sized travel companies innovate in order to compete with industry giants.

https://mytrip.ai/

summary
Jason Halberstadt, founder and CEO of MyYrip.AI, shares his journey from being a guide and outdoor instructor to moving to Ecuador where he then transitioned to offering internet services to tour operators and eventually ventured into AI assistance for travel businesses. The AI assistant helps engage website visitors in personalized conversations, providing value and building trust before asking for contact information. This approach has resulted in a high conversion rate and improved customer satisfaction. The conversation with Jason Elkins focused on the importance of personalized and timely service in the travel industry. He emphasized that the first company to develop a relationship with a prospective traveler often wins the business. However, many tour operators struggle to provide quick responses and customized attention. This is where AI assistants can play a crucial role. AI assistants can greet travelers immediately, understand their preferences, recommend suitable products, and even schedule meetings with human trip planners. By combining AI technology with human expertise, tour operators can enhance the customer experience and improve their sales process.

takeaways

• Jason Halberstadt started as a guide and outdoor instructor before starting a tour operator marketing business in Ecuador.
• He began by offering internet services to tour operators and eventually ventured into AI assistance for travel businesses.
• The AI assistant engages website visitors in personalized conversations, providing value and building trust before asking for contact information.
• This approach has resulted in a high conversion rate and improved customer satisfaction. In the travel industry, the first company to develop a relationship with a prospective traveler often wins the business.
• Tour operators often struggle to provide quick responses and customized attention, which can lead to missed opportunities.
• AI assistants can greet travelers immediately, understand their preferences, recommend suitable products, and schedule meetings with human trip planners.
• By combining AI technology with human expertise, tour operators can enhance the customer experience and improve their sales process.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.