Tech, Travel, and Twang!

2025: The Wellness Travel Era

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2105294/open_sms] Can wellness travel redefine how we experience our holidays? Join us on Tech, Travel and Twang as we explore the transformative trends shaping wellness tourism, promising not just relaxation but a journey to mental and physical rejuvenation. As we gear up for the holiday season, discover how the post-pandemic travel boom is pushing both leisure and business travelers to prioritize well-being in their itineraries. We'll share insights from the Global Wellness Institute and delve into wellness travel's impact on the tourism workforce. We're challenging the old perceptions of wellness travel being reserved for only luxury retreats. Discover how this sector is expanding to include a myriad of experiences like forest bathing and reconnecting with nature. We discuss the necessity of personalized wellness journeys that cater to an array of needs, emphasizing the shift towards trips aimed at slowing down and recharging. Destinations are now crafting unique, inspirational experiences that transcend traditional categories, ensuring that wellness is no longer a luxury but an essential component of travel. And let's not forget the primal allure of reconnecting with nature—think glamping, campfires, and "Blue Mind Escapes." We explore how engaging in primal skills and aligning with circadian rhythms can enhance our sense of well-being, particularly when dealing with the rigors of travel. Our conversation takes a playful turn as we share anecdotes about household language etiquette and tease the exciting release of an upcoming white paper on wellness travel trends. Join us for a lively discussion that promises to inspire your next journey towards wellness. ----------------------------------------------------- The Tech, Travel, and Twang Podcast is hosted by Co-Founders, Kristen Cruz and Jenn Barbee with Destination Innovate. Learn More! https://destinationinnovate.com/about/  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-travel-and-twang/id1679996130 🎙️Subscribe on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2WxEA6ZONc1PhNbJMHP8mV -- Follow Us on Social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationinnovate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/destinationinnovate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/destinationinnovate -- Have a topic you want us to cover? Want to be a guest? Let us know! https://destinationinnovate.com/contact/

Happy Election Day! Tourism in an Election Year

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2105294/open_sms] Is TikTok the new frontier in political influence? Jenn Barbee and Kristen Cruz unravel the unexpected events of Election Day 2024, including the peculiar incident of Puerto Rico being the target of an unjust criticism in the political sphere. Join us as we discuss how the election cycle has transcended the predictable, entering a realm where social media platforms hold unprecedented sway. With TikTok emerging as a pivotal player in engaging younger voters, we reflect on the transformation from the days when X (Twitter) was the trailblazer in political campaigns to today's complex digital battleground. Amidst the digital noise, we emphasize the importance of focusing on what truly matters, especially for industries like tourism that occasionally find themselves in the spotlight. As millions of messages swirl in the digital ether, the challenge is to provide travelers with content that is both informative and digestible. From observing the power of social media in Obama's era to dissecting its current vibrant role, our conversation explores how platforms like Instagram and TikTok are shaping the discourse and empowering the next generation to make informed decisions. Tune in for a mix of reminiscence and revelation, as we navigate the swift currents of political and social change and where the tourism industry fits in. ----------------------------------------------------- The Tech, Travel, and Twang Podcast is hosted by Co-Founders, Kristen Cruz and Jenn Barbee with Destination Innovate. Learn More! https://destinationinnovate.com/about/  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-travel-and-twang/id1679996130 🎙️Subscribe on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2WxEA6ZONc1PhNbJMHP8mV -- Follow Us on Social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationinnovate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/destinationinnovate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/destinationinnovate -- Have a topic you want us to cover? Want to be a guest? Let us know! https://destinationinnovate.com/contact/

Meetings on the Rise: Navigating Demand and Innovation in Event Planning

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2105294/open_sms] Discover how the meetings industry is not only rebounding but thriving, as chat about Kristen's experience at the Texas Travel Alliance's 39th Annual Texas Travel Summit. Together, we uncover the stunning resurgence of the industry, which is now surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Kristen shares insights on the new frontrunners in event planning, with the sports market leading the charge, while planners face the dual challenge of high demand and limited venue availability. We also dissect the role of hotels and DMOs in overcoming rising costs and the importance of flexible, responsive partnerships that help planners navigate these turbulent times. Even amidst these challenges, there’s a palpable optimism breezing through the industry, with the majority of planners feeling more positive than they did just months ago.  As the meetings landscape transforms, DMOs are shifting their strategies from traditional FAM tours to more personalized site visits, all while wrestling with tighter budgets and a greater emphasis on digital marketing. This episode highlights the creative ways DMOs are capitalizing on local partnerships to offer competitive incentives, turning financial constraints into opportunities. We also delve into the evolving dynamics between planners, hotels, and DMOs, emphasizing the significance of flexibility and post-event feedback. Learn how collaboration can create opportunities even in a landscape marked by rising costs and rigid contract terms, as the industry adjusts back to pre-pandemic norms. Join us for these insights and prepare for upcoming episodes where we'll explore emerging traveler behaviors and market trends. ----------------------------------------------------- The Tech, Travel, and Twang Podcast is hosted by Co-Founders, Kristen Cruz and Jenn Barbee with Destination Innovate. Learn More! https://destinationinnovate.com/about/  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-travel-and-twang/id1679996130 🎙️Subscribe on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2WxEA6ZONc1PhNbJMHP8mV -- Follow Us on Social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationinnovate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/destinationinnovate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/destinationinnovate -- Have a topic you want us to cover? Want to be a guest? Let us know! https://destinationinnovate.com/contact/

DestiCon: Innovation Academy - Investing in Growth & Professional Development

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2105294/open_sms] Is professional development an optional add-on, or should it be a non-negotiable part of our careers? Join Kristen Cruz and me as we unpack this compelling question in our latest episode of Tech Travel and Twain. We've been eagerly awaiting October, not only for cooler weather in Phoenix and Texas but also for the excitement surrounding our annual Destacon pop-up event. This year, we're creating a welcoming virtual space exclusively for women, celebrating empowerment and growth. Kristen and I share our thoughts on the comfort of virtual networking and the invaluable opportunities for personal and professional development at the Innovation Academy for Bold Women. But there's more than just networking on the agenda. We're diving into how prioritizing these growth opportunities can make a significant impact on your career trajectory. Discover how Destacon's unique approach allows you to engage as much or as little as you want, all from the convenience of your home. Our conversation highlights the importance of investing time and energy into your professional journey, and why this commitment should be a staple in everyone's career plan. Tune in to hear how Destacon aims to inspire and empower women, providing them with the tools they need to succeed and thrive in their professional lives. ----------------------------------------------------- The Tech, Travel, and Twang Podcast is hosted by Co-Founders, Kristen Cruz and Jenn Barbee with Destination Innovate. Learn More! https://destinationinnovate.com/about/  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-travel-and-twang/id1679996130 🎙️Subscribe on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2WxEA6ZONc1PhNbJMHP8mV -- Follow Us on Social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationinnovate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/destinationinnovate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/destinationinnovate -- Have a topic you want us to cover? Want to be a guest? Let us know! https://destinationinnovate.com/contact/

Building Destination Buzz: Seasonal Events, Social Media, & Community Inclusion

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2105294/open_sms] Ready to discover the secrets of holiday travel in the oldest town in Texas? Join us on Tech Travel and Twang as we welcome Ashley Morgan, the Executive Director of Visit Nacogdoches. Ashley paints a vivid picture of Nacogdoches' fall charm, from its crisp air to its bustling downtown. We get the scoop on must-see events like the Merry Christmas Market and Wassail Fest, which bring a festive spirit to the town. Learn how the CVB collaborates with local merchants and the role of the Main Street manager in crafting memorable downtown experiences, ensuring a thriving community vibe. But that's not all! Learn how Nacogdoches balances influencer content with authentic posts from community members on social media. Discover strategies for building a local ambassador program that fosters hometown pride and engages the community. We also explore successful events such as the Dia de los Muertos celebration and the winter workshop, which draw visitors and support local vendors. Finally, Ashley delves into regional collaborations and professional development efforts that boost tourism, including partnerships with nearby towns and resources like the Texas Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with tips and strategies for making the most of your fall and holiday travel in Nacogdoches! ----------------------------------------------------- The Tech, Travel, and Twang Podcast is hosted by Co-Founders, Kristen Cruz and Jenn Barbee with Destination Innovate. Learn More! https://destinationinnovate.com/about/  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-travel-and-twang/id1679996130 🎙️Subscribe on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2WxEA6ZONc1PhNbJMHP8mV -- Follow Us on Social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationinnovate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/destinationinnovate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/destinationinnovate -- Have a topic you want us to cover? Want to be a guest? Let us know! https://destinationinnovate.com/contact/