Lauren Bath is a legend for many reasons. Deemed “Australia’s first professional Instagrammer” by national media, Lauren Bath pioneered the Australian influencer industry. She has an impressive client list, having worked with global destination marketing bodies including Tourism Australia, Switzerland Tourism, Tourism South Africa, Tourism New Zealand, Canadian Tourism Commission, Visit Finland, and Visit Dubai, as well as many major brands such as The Plaza New York, Travel Insurance Direct, VAIL Resorts, Olympus Australia, Intrepid Travel, Visa Australia, Australia Post, and Moët & Chandon. Additionally, Lauren is also co-founder of “The Travel Bootcamp,” an inspirational event designed to teach people how to get paid to travel, and the creator of “Get Camera Confident,” an online photography course for beginners. Her charitable pursuits include running photography tours to Zimbabwe, supporting anti-poaching efforts and conservation, and raising awareness of the misuse of animals in tourism. With an online audience of close to half a million followers, she is not only one of Australia’s most powerful travel Instagrammers but also a savvy social media consultant, educator, and public speaker. In 2015 she was a Finalist in the Gold Coast Women in Business Awards in the “Women for Change” category. Lauren has been featured by Travel + Leisure, Daily News, News.com.au, 60 Minutes, and Mashable, among many others. Tune in, learn and be inspired! Resources and Links to follow Lauren and The Travel Bootcamp: https://laurenbath.com/ https://laurenbath.com/online-course/ https://thetravelbootcamp.com/ @laurenepbath @thetravelbootcamp #TourismHub #BeExcellent The show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates. Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos holds a Master’s Degree in International Sustainable Tourism Management from Monash University Australia, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economic Sciences from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. Nikolaos has been working for UNWTO since 2016 and currently holds the position of Silk Road Project Specialists within the Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department. Among others, Nikolaos is dedicated to the promotion of sustainable tourism development and the SDGs, the strategic international and interregional tourism development, Public-Private tourism partnerships, the creation of new Silk Road tourism intelligence, and assessing the Social Impact tourism has for the local societies and communities. Nowadays he enjoys working on the Tourism Recovery, assisting destinations and Member States overcome the tourism challenges of the pandemic. Nikolaos identifies as a person of Greek heart and Global citizen Spirit. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Nikos: Not having the clarity of vision shouldn’t be deterrent to move forward Having an understanding of other cultures will allow you to communicate in a positive and effective and efficient manner Despite the sacrifices made during the time studying in Melbourne, it was the moment that Nikos received the call for an offer of employment at UNWTO that justified his decisions up until that point. You don’t decide to do things 100%, you feel it Do not submit anything until you have reviewed it at least 10 times Always be thinking about the interest of the other party Resources and Links Nikos Loves: https://www.unwto.org/ https://www.onenote.com/ #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this episode, we meet Mel Neil, an Australian positive psychology practitioner, consultant, founder and CEO of https://mindinsurance.com.au/ exploring how to build your psychological wellbeing and cultivating a landscape for flourishing. Through her desire to empower and facilitate the success of individuals, organisations and communities Mel has a unique ability to make the empirical science and research practical; teaching leaders, teams and individuals how to increase personal, business and collective wellbeing. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Mel: Psychological Wellbeing is a more positive and meaningful type of description instead of using the term “mental health”. Emotional Intelligence - top 10 skills (future of work) Important to experience negative and positive emotions, but there needs to be a balance. Take the step of a mindfulness practice, relax and stop. The term “balanced” is very subjective Use Formal and Informal times to practice mindfulness: eg. in traffic, breathing activities, get away for time off. Technology and social media problems arise not from the technology itself, but more so based on how it’s used/abused. Rather than criticize how someone is using technology, encourage a conversation and engage with them (because they’re fulfilling a need) Use gratitude in a way that works for you What is your authentic offering? The grass might be greener on the other side, but don’t forget you still have to mow it! Being a value centred person, has inherently incredible challenges because you won’t always be people's cup of tea.  You need to stay true to yourself and don’t compromise on your values. Resources and Links Mel Loves: https://mindinsurance.com.au/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2019/04/29/the-10-vital-skills-you-will-need-for-the-future-of-work/#49657cde3f5b https://podio.com/ https://www.booktopia.com.au/positivity-barbara-fredrickson/book/9780307393746.html https://www.instituteofexcellence.com #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this episode, hear from Instagram influencer Shirin Jamaly about the growing changes of Instagram and helpful strategies centred around what makes a great influencer marketing campaign and how to work with and reach out to influencers for successful Instagram collaborations. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Shirin: Starting a side hustle is challenging but it can be done even if you’re working full time 7-11 job (start side hustle at 7pm and finish at 11pm!) If you love what you do and have a passion for something, the puzzle comes together and don’t give up See that a challenge is a blessing Collaborate with an influencer that has aligned passions and values to your own Be true to yourself because there’s only one of you Don’t fall for the trap of just because you got an offer that it’s genuine Do your research before you accept any offers Maintaining the same routine because of a habit, it also requires a strict structure and time management. No matter if you have self-doubt, you’ll regret not doing it. “Success is not owned, it’s rented.  Rent is due every day.” Persistence is the key to everything Resources and Links Shirin Loves: Trello.com https://www.amazon.com.au/Becoming-Michelle-Obama/dp/1524763136 #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this episode join Despina Karatzias for a conversation about Financial Intelligence and Keeping the Lights on for Tourism, Events and Entertainment Business ie the good, bad and the unique opportunities facing the tourism industry with Amit Aggarwal from SAPTAX. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Amit: Build a strong team of professionals around you when starting a new business (legal and accounting) Expect a lag between when you start a business and when you start making a profit.  Can you sustain the business during that time? There’s no such thing as job security Check your local council’s website for business support We’re all going through our own challenges, don’t be afraid to ask for help Round 3 of the Business Support Package outlines which industries are eligible Life beyond numbers Make sure you’re calm and composed before you advise others Persistence and consistency are key to keep going through challenges An upset mind is in no position to make an informed decision Resources and Links Amit Loves: https://www.business.vic.gov.au/ https://eibc.net.au/ https://www.business.vic.gov.au/support-for-your-business/grants-and-assistance/business-support-package https://www.artofliving.org/ https://www.amitaggarwal.com.au/  #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

Digital Digest – Making a Comeback How you can help carry the load, with Young Tourism Network Stream/subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or Google Podcasts #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this episode join Despina Karatzias for a conversation about Tourism in Distress, The Good, Bad, and the Unique Opportunities Ahead ie the good, bad and the unique opportunities facing the tourism industry with Simon Westaway from Australian Tourism Industry Council. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Simon: At the time of recording, SA has opened their border to NSW. Biggest learning from COVID is diversity of customer is key Join an industry organisation and see how they engage at a state and federal level Get to know your local MP both state and federal Once things get to a level or normality, people will want to travel again and that sentiment will not change Look around at your competitors and see what they’re doing well, be nimble. You must have a domestic audience (it’s our core market) Believe in your product, yourself, and customer service. You must have a fantastic digital platform, look at online booking engines. Doing SWOT analysis is a very healthy thing to do If your market’s not working, change it.  You need to be nimble if your strategy isn’t working. Follow your passion points and interest Resources and Links Simon Loves: https://qualitytourismaustralia.com/ https://www.austrade.gov.au/Australian/Export/Export-Grants https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-westaway-59a31823 #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updatesFacebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina Karatzias Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

Meet Fiona Sweetman who not only leads a pretty fab business and team, at Hidden Secrets Tours, she sits on a number of boards, social collectives, educational programs and now council of her city of Melbourne. Tune in to hear how Fiona got started, what change she wants to see in the world and how she stays motivated and driven to run her business and for council. Key Learnings and A-HA Moments from Fiona: Choice is more important than goal setting Took 14 years to get a business coach, but having done that had saved Fiona’s life Fiona is running for mayor for the City of Melbourne Growth in business in Melbourne during COVID19 doesn’t just have to be about numbers, but can also be about how we can do things better. Get out of your own way It’s okay to be different It’s okay to say that you don’t know You don’t identify as excluded until you’re included In small business, you don’t have to be biggest, just love what you do Effort and conscious decisions matter It all stops with you, there’s only you. Resources and Links Fiona Loves: http://hiddensecretstours.com/slow-tours-for-a-new-era/ http://hiddensecretstours.com/tours/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionasweetman https://www.instagram.com/thevalueoftourism/ https://www.instagram.com/tourismsisters/ #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updatesFacebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast | Despina KaratziasInstagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @desikaratziasYouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

How to successfully transform your small business to a smart tourism business with Liz Ward, CEO Tourism Tribe and Navii Digital Key learnings: To become the digital expert for small businesses in the tourism industry Businesses can take action today: Look at your core assets (cyber security and backups) Website as your #1 marketing asset, optimise it! Develop customer personas for your ideal target market Go through your feedback and comments left by customers online Marketing using lead magnets and email marketing automation The feeling of, “We will not fail!” was the ah-ha moment with 100% clarity Put aside the thoughts that do not serve you Imposter syndrome is something that Lose the JUST! Group Think: If there’s more than one person with a strong view on the direction to take, others will follow.  Deal with it with the whole group. Advice: Know your niche, what is your USP? Relevant links: Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJ1ifSpqxD4 https://www.instituteofexcellence.com https://www.tourismtribe.com/free-course/ https://www.tourismtribe.com/product/bizkeeper-101/ https://fleurieupeninsula.com.au/ https://www.reboothay.com.au/tourism-tribe-workshop https://www.wcei.com.au/ www.zoom.us www.trello.com https://www.amazon.com.au/24-Assets-scalable-valuable-business-ebook/dp/B071L8C8NV #TourismHub #BeExcellent Join us every Saturday afternoon at 2pm live and be part of the conversation. Show hosted by Despina Karatzias. This program is brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with The Institute Of Excellence.  #BeExcellent Follow  and connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/BeExcellentHQ/ https://twitter.com/desikaratzias https://www.linkedin.com/company/instituteofexcellence/ https://www.facebook.com/BeExcellentHQ https://www.facebook.com/DespinaKaratzias https://www.facebook.com/Tourism-Hub-Podcast-101388458353231 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZ8GpfkPC7Add4S9VkVM8g

In this episode join Despina Karatzias for a conversation about How New Zealand Tour Operator, Take it Easy Tours has Thrived Through COVID ie the good, bad and the unique opportunities facing the tourism industry with Take It Easy Tours NZ Key learnings: Learning to drive a big bus was the biggest challenge pre COVID! Using the down time to work on new itineraries Focus on what you have Mystery tours! “Sprints” to delegate tasks on a weekly basis.  A digital method to complete a series of work. Look after your sales and cash flow Spread the love and pass on the knowledge Take small steps Relevant links: Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnLoKT5gGf0 https://www.instituteofexcellence.com https://www.amazon.com.au/Only-Two-Seats-Left-Incredible/dp/0646515888 Catch other Tourism Hub Episodes: https://www.instituteofexcellence.com/podcast/ Tourism Hub Instagram: www. instagram.com/tourismhub/ ____________________________________ Join us follow us on other networks: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InstituteOfExcellenceHQ/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/instituteofexcellencehq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instituteofexcellence Twitter: www.twitter.com/BeExcellentHQ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/BeExcellentHQ/ YouTube: https://bit.ly/BeExcellentYT Join Your Tourism Excellence Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1421741554754291/