What Travel Pros Can Expect at This Year’s DI Annual Convention

Storytelling, Strategy, and the Future of Marketing

The "Carry On Queen" Mary Charleson joins Brand USA Talks Travel to talk marketing strategy, storytelling, and smart packing. From insights into the awards at ESTO to travel trends in AI-driven content, Mary offers actionable tips for DMOs and industry pros alike. Plus: media platforms that travel brands shouldn't overlook. Visit www.fiveminutemarketing.com and www.carryonqueen.com for more. Mary Charleson is a marketing speaker, author, and consultant.

What Travel Pros Can Expect at This Year’s DI Annual Convention

Don Welsh returns to Brand USA Talks Travel to break down the must-know sessions, tools, and trends coming to Chicago this July. With record-breaking attendance, a focus on metrics and funding models, and some seriously fun evening events, the Destinations International Annual Convention is shaping up to be a standout. Bonus: Don shares what really happens behind the scenes. Don Welsh is President and CEO of Destinations International.

Inside the New Era of Adventure Travel

Intergenerational travel, last-chance trips, and dealing with over-tourism: adventure travel is evolving, and U.S. destinations have a big opportunity. Shannon Stowell joins Mark to talk about a new adventure travel study, small town experiences and best practices. Whether you’re promoting trails, small towns, or cultural immersion, this episode is packed with real-world guidance for travel marketers. Shannon Stowell is CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association and a Founding Board Member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund.

Traveler Technology Study: The State of AI with Carroll Rheem

As artificial intelligence continues to permeate the travel industry, understanding its use in travel planning is crucial. Carroll Rheem shares key takeaways from a new study titled "Traveler Technology: The State of AI,” including understanding current traveler planning routines, how AI will affect content created for destination websites, and whether consumers will go for specific travel planning AI tools or opt for their favorite general-use AI platform. Plus: would you trust an AI with your credit card? Carroll Rheem is CEO and Founder of iolite group.

Ready for IPW? Here’s Your Insider Edge

IPW is more than a trade show - it’s where the global travel industry connects. So, what should you pack besides your walking shoes? In this episode, U.S. Travel’s Aimee Misako Gabel and Michael Martin join Mark to talk prep tips, networking hacks, and what’s new for 2025 - including the cruise pavilion, super fun Chicago activities, and even a pickleball court. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran, we’ll help you get the most out of the travel industry’s biggest week. Aimee Misako Gabel is Senior Vice President of Events & Education, and Michael Martin is Director of International Buyer Engagement, both at U.S. Travel Association.