Dee's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deebeckvacations/
Dee's Travel Leaders Profile: https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/323346
Dee's Travelmation Profile: https://www.travelmation.net/deebeck
Dee's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/deebeckvacations
Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman interviews Dee Beck, a travel advisor celebrating her first year in the industry. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life with a new career, the importance of community support, and the realities of the travel advisory business. Dee shares her journey from being a fitness instructor to becoming a travel advisor, highlighting the parallels between the two fields. The conversation also touches on the significance of social media in building a travel business and the insights gained from planning family vacations. In this conversation, Marcie Muensterman shares her journey as a travel advisor, emphasizing the importance of learning through experience, celebrating milestones, and preparing clients for international travel. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the value of mentorship, and actionable advice for new travel advisors. Marcie encourages taking time to build a business and highlights the significance of personal growth and understanding client needs.
Takeaways:
Dee Beck celebrates one year as a travel advisor.
Balancing family life with a new career is challenging but rewarding.
Community support is crucial for success in the travel industry.
Social media plays a significant role in building a travel business.
Planning family vacations can be a learning experience for travel advisors.
The travel advisory business requires patience and perseverance.
Earnings in the travel industry can be lower than expected.
It's important to research host agencies before joining.
Building a Facebook group can enhance community engagement.
Success in travel advisory is a marathon, not a sprint. The importance of committing to a learning process for 30 to 60 days.
Consistency in branding comes from starting and refining your approach.
Celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation and confidence.
Understanding industry jargon can enhance your expertise.
Creating organized resources for clients can ease their travel experience.
Emotional ups and downs are part of the entrepreneurial journey.
Asking for help is essential when facing new challenges.
Finding a mentor can significantly impact your success.
Focusing on a niche allows for deeper knowledge and better service.
Utilizing library resources can aid in personal and professional growth.
Titles:
Navigating the Travel Industry: Insights from a New Advisor
Balancing Family and Career as a Travel Advisor
The Journey of a Travel Advisor: Challenges and Triumphs
Building a Community in the Travel Advisory Space
Secrets to Success in the Travel Industry
From Fitness to Travel: A Unique Career Transition
Sound Bites:
"Congrats girl!"
"I am a podcast junkie!"
"I jumped into the deep end."
"Christmas is my favorite!"
"It's a marathon, not a sprint."
"I had over a hundred people join."
"I felt really good about that."
"I created a Trello board for her."
"Ask for help."
"Find a mentor."
"Pick a niche to focus in on."
"Go to your library."
"You need to get started."
Chapters:
00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
02:51
Balancing Family Life and Career
06:07
The Journey to Becoming a Travel Advisor
09:00
Navigating the Challenges of a New Business
11:56
The Importance of Community and Support
14:51
Building a Successful Travel Business
18:02
The Role of Social Media in Travel Advisory
20:49
Planning Family Vacations and Experiences
24:05
Insights on the Travel Industry
26:59
The Reality of Earnings in Travel Advisory
29:50
Conclusion and Future Aspirations
34:54
Embracing the Learning Journey
39:46
Celebrating Milestones and Successes
42:33
Preparing Clients for International Travel
45:51
Navigating Emotions in Entrepreneurship
49:44
Actionable Advice for New Travel Advisors
57:35
The Importance of Taking Your Time
PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses
Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/
Mexperts: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/
Lori Gold IG: https://www.instagram.com/explorewithlor/
Trello Organizational Tool: www.trello.com
Keywords: travel advisor success, balancing family and business, overcoming business challenges, community support for travel entrepreneurs, social media strategies for travel advisors, expert travel planning tips, travel industry insights, increasing earnings as a travel advisor, top travel advisor podcasts, entrepreneurship in the travel industry, preparing clients for travel, navigating the emotional journey of entrepreneurship, mentorship for travel advisors, niche specialization strategies, personal growth for travel professionals, scaling a profitable travel business
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1:05:12
CARRIE: From Doing It All to Saying HELL NO
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacayswithcarrieonadventuring/
Carrie on Adventuring: https://carrieonadventuring.com/
Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman interviews Carrie Blackwell, a travel advisor and full-time nurse. Carrie shares her journey from limited travel experiences to becoming a travel advisor, detailing her adventures across the U.S. and her decision to pursue travel full-time. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating the travel industry, the importance of finding the right host agency, and the balance between work and personal life. Carrie also discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and the significance of focusing on what she loves in her travel business. In this conversation, Marcie Muensterman discusses her journey as a travel advisor, emphasizing the importance of specialization, networking, and building confidence. She shares insights on managing dual careers, the value of referrals, and practical advice for fellow travel advisors. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of travel advisors in the digital age, highlighting their continued relevance despite the rise of online booking platforms and AI.
Takeaways:
Carrie transitioned from a limited travel background to a travel advisor.
She experienced a significant change in her life after meeting her adventurous husband.
Traveling opened her eyes to the beauty of the world beyond her childhood experiences.
Carrie decided to pursue travel full-time after a period of reflection and change.
She faced challenges in the travel industry, particularly with her first host agency.
Finding the right support and training is crucial for success as a travel advisor.
Carrie emphasizes the importance of focusing on her passions in travel planning.
She learned to balance her nursing career with her travel business.
Overcoming imposter syndrome was a significant part of her journey.
Carrie encourages others to find their niche and not to take on clients that don't excite them. Specializing in specific destinations can boost confidence.
Networking and referrals are crucial for success.
It's important to be transparent with clients about your availability.
Ditching the intake form can lead to better client engagement.
Finding a niche allows advisors to focus on what they love.
Creating a workflow is essential for managing client relationships.
Travel advisors provide valuable insights that online platforms cannot.
Building relationships with clients leads to referrals and repeat business.
Being honest about challenges can strengthen client trust.
The travel industry is evolving, but advisors remain essential.
Titles:
From Nurse to Travel Advisor: Carrie's Journey
Embracing Adventure: Carrie's Travel Transformation
Navigating the Travel Industry: Insights from Carrie
Finding Balance: Life as a Travel Advisor and Nurse
Overcoming Challenges in the Travel Business
The Importance of Passion in Travel Planning
Sound Bites:
"I just got a bam, chick-a-wow-wow promotion."
"I was way too scared to move to Costa Rica."
"I poured my heart into everything and planned it."
"I was like, is that a thing?"
"I want this to succeed."
"I didn't really do my research on a host."
"I hate Disney, don't like kids, don't have kids."
"I felt like it gave me more confidence."
"The more we give, the more we don't gatekeep."
"I'm the CEO of Carry On Adventuring."
"Ditch the intake form."
"We are more needed now than ever."
Chapters:
00:00
Introduction to Travel Adventures
02:27
Carrie's Journey into Travel
06:47
The Decision to Travel Full-Time
11:27
Becoming a Travel Advisor
18:24
Navigating the Travel Industry
22:04
Finding Balance in Life and Work
28:22
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
31:18
Building Confidence Through Specialization
35:25
The Power of Networking and Referrals
40:04
Navigating the Challenges of Dual Careers
47:14
Practical Advice for Travel Advisors
57:01
The Value of Travel Advisors in a Digital Age
PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses
Keywords: travel advisor success, from nursing to travel advisor, adventure travel tips, travel industry insights, unforgettable travel experiences, expert travel planning strategies, starting a travel agency, must-know travel tips, personal journey in travel, building confidence as a travel advisor, networking for travel professionals, generating referrals in the travel business, balancing dual careers, practical advice for travel advisors, AI in the travel industry, strengthening client relationships, mastering niche specialization in travel
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54:52
FARRIN: Imposter Syndrome Be Damned
Vacations Worth Melting For: https://vacationsworthmeltingfor.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/546978420676260
Farrin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacationsworthmeltingfor/
Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman interviews Farrin Gustafson, a travel advisor specializing in Disney and autism travel. They discuss the importance of planning vacations, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the challenges faced in the travel industry. Farrin shares her personal journey, the significance of finding the right host agency, and her unique approach to helping families with children on the autism spectrum. The conversation emphasizes community, support, and the value of professional fulfillment in the travel advisory business.
Takeaways:
Farrin has been a travel advisor for six years, specializing in Disney and autism travel.
Planning vacations should be enjoyable, not stressful.
Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, but it can be overcome with support and coaching.
Finding the right host agency is crucial for success in the travel industry.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of travel advisors in supporting clients.
Families with children on the autism spectrum often avoid travel due to challenges.
Creating tailored travel experiences can significantly benefit families with special needs.
Networking with other travel advisors can lead to valuable referrals and support.
Travel advisors should advocate for fair compensation and evaluate their host agency contracts.
Community over competition is essential in the travel advisory industry.
Sound Bites:
"You deserve to enjoy your vacation."
"I am incredibly unhappy in my work life."
"You can hire me and I will hire you."
Chapters:
00:00
Introduction to Travel and Personal Journeys
02:16
Specializing in Family Travel and Autism Awareness
05:13
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Business
10:08
Navigating Career Changes and Finding Fulfillment
15:24
The Impact of COVID-19 on Travel Advisors
20:32
Rediscovering Self-Worth and Professional Identity
33:07
Navigating the Shift to Virtual Learning
35:21
Reflections on Childhood and Family Vacations
40:19
Understanding Commission Structures in Travel Agencies
43:20
The Importance of Fair Compensation for Travel Agents
45:30
Building Community Over Competition in Travel
47:03
Specializing in Travel for Families with Autism
52:43
Empowering Clients with Food Allergies
55:01
Practical Advice for Aspiring Travel Advisors
01:02:49
Challenging Common Misconceptions in the Travel Industry
Host Agency Reviews: https://hostagencyreviews.com/
Legato Host: https://legatohost.com/
Once Upon a Wardrobe: https://www.ouawardrobe.com/
Host Agency Questionnaire: https://marciemuensterman.mykajabi.com/opt-in-f09b2ebd-7ddb-4849-afe7-60fe433c9054
PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses
Keywords: travel advisor success, Disney travel planning, autism-friendly travel tips, overcoming imposter syndrome as a travel advisor, coaching for travel entrepreneurs, family travel strategies, stress-free vacation planning, choosing the right host agency, travel industry insights, inclusive travel experiences, planning Disney trips for special needs families, navigating the travel business with confidence, building a profitable travel advisory, expert tips for family vacations, travel coaching for success, growing a travel business
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1:10:59
KRISTINA: A Corporate Marketing Maven by Day
Kristina's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kfox_thevacaymaker/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheVacayMaker
The Vacay Maker: https://thevacaymaker.com/
Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman speaks with Kristina Fox, a travel advisor and corporate marketing professional. They discuss Kristina's journey into travel advising, the cultural richness of Jamaica, the balance between corporate work and travel advising, the importance of charging fees, and the significance of self-belief and community support in the travel industry. Kristina shares her experiences and insights, emphasizing the value of personal growth and the need to celebrate achievements. In this conversation, Marcie Muensterman shares her insights on the travel advisory business, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, work-life balance, and the necessity of travel insurance. She discusses effective marketing strategies, the significance of building a reputation, and the mindset needed to succeed in the industry. Marcie also provides practical tips for travel advisors, highlighting the value of leveraging email lists and education, while encouraging an abundant mindset over a scarcity mindset.
Takeaways:
Marcie emphasizes the importance of a safe space for honest discussions.
Kristina’s journey into travel advising was inspired by her son's transition to high school.
The cultural vibe of Jamaica is unique and should be experienced beyond typical tourist activities.
Service in Jamaica is often misunderstood; it's about embracing 'island time.'
Self-belief is crucial for success in the travel industry.
Charging fees is essential for valuing one's time and expertise.
Community support plays a significant role in personal and professional growth.
Celebrating small wins can boost morale and motivation.
Balancing a corporate career with travel advising is challenging but rewarding.
Investing in oneself and one's business is key to long-term success. Continuous learning is essential for travel advisors.
Setting boundaries and choosing your hours is crucial.
Consistency in marketing efforts leads to long-term success.
Travel insurance is a must in today's unpredictable world.
You can achieve a full-time income without working full-time hours.
Engagement with your audience is key to building trust.
Leverage free resources and education to grow your business.
Email marketing is a powerful tool for travel advisors.
Don't chase every lead; focus on your niche.
Authenticity in your business approach fosters trust and growth.
Titles:
The Journey of a Travel Advisor: Learning and Growth
Balancing Act: Work and Travel Advisory
Why Travel Insurance is Essential for Advisors
Building a Profitable Travel Advisory Business
Marketing Mastery for Travel Advisors
Top Tips for Aspiring Travel Advisors
The Power of an Abundant Mindset in Travel
Sound Bites:
"This is a safe space to say it like it is."
"I love helping agents really come into their own."
"There's something special in the water in Jamaica."
"You have to learn to have that respect."
"It's a team effort partnership."
"I need to up my fees."
"I love to text while they're on vacation."
"We're horrible at celebrating ourselves."
"You get to pick your hours, 100%."
"Those first 30 to 60 days of consistency is so key."
"If you're scrolling, you have time to answer."
"Leverage those emails, it's free."
"Education is key, and it's often free."
"You don't have to chase down every single lead."
"Be your authentic self, it'll get you further in life."
Chapters:
00:00
Welcome to the No BS Travel Advisor Podcast
02:57
KristinaFox: The Vacay Maker's Journey
07:37
Exploring Jamaica: Culture and Vibe
12:46
Balancing Corporate America and Travel Advising
22:42
The Importance of Fees and Self-Belief
34:17
Celebrating Growth and Community Support
39:03
The Continuous Journey of Learning
42:39
Balancing Work and Travel Advisory
45:00
The Importance of Travel Insurance
50:02
Building a Successful Travel Advisory Business
54:41
Marketing Strategies for Travel Advisors
01:01:50
Top Tips for Travel Advisors
01:09:29
Embracing an Abundant Mindset
Mexperts: https://www.exploremoremexico.com/
Lori Gold Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explorewithlor/
Miranda Leach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelbrandmaven/
PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses
Keywords: travel advisor success, transitioning from corporate to travel advisor, Jamaica travel insights, self-belief in business, why travel advisors should charge fees, community support for travel entrepreneurs, work-life balance for travel professionals, travel industry trends, marketing for travel advisors, personal growth in business, continuous learning in the travel industry, importance of travel insurance, effective marketing strategies, business tips for travel advisors, cultivating an abundant mindset, scaling a travel business, profitable travel advisory strategies
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1:06:09
NATASHA: Rising Above Loss and Niching to Cruise Groups
Serenity Sand and Seas Travel: https://serenitysandseastravel.com/
Natasha's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serenitysandseastravel_/
Summary: In this episode of the No BS Travel Advisor podcast, Marcie Muensterman interviews Natasha, a travel advisor who transitioned from a nursing career to travel advisory. They discuss Natasha's journey, the challenges she faced, and how she built her business through relationship-building and effective marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on personal losses, the importance of implementing changes for growth, and the significance of niche specialization in the travel industry. Natasha shares valuable insights and practical tips for fellow travel advisors looking to enhance their businesses while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Takeaways:
Natasha transitioned from nursing to travel advisory, fulfilling her long-time dream.
Building relationships with vendors and clients is crucial for success in the travel industry.
Implementing changes, such as moving to Zoom calls, can significantly improve client interactions.
Grief and personal challenges can impact business, but perseverance is key.
Niche specialization helps in targeting specific markets effectively.
Decluttering and organizing can enhance productivity and mental clarity.
Practicing gratitude can shift focus from negativity to positivity.
It's important to say no to clients that don't align with your business values.
Hiring a virtual assistant can help reduce workload and improve efficiency.
Travel can serve as a therapeutic outlet during difficult times.
Sound Bites:
"I see you everywhere!"
"You just have to do it."
"It's okay to say no."
Chapters:
00:00
Introduction to Travel Advisory Journey
02:16
Transitioning from Nursing to Travel Advisory
04:50
Building Relationships in the Travel Industry
07:48
Overcoming Challenges and Personal Loss
10:18
Implementing Change and Achieving Success
23:19
Understanding Client Expectations and Budgeting
25:49
Niche Specialization in Travel Planning
26:42
Cruise Planning and Group Bookings
32:08
Scaling Your Travel Business
35:48
Maximizing Client Engagement During Wave Season
37:05
Practical Tips for Travel Advisors
43:45
The Importance of Saying No in Business
Life Changing Assistants Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lifechangingassistants
Assistants that Work with Mary Beth Lynn: https://www.assistantsthatwork.com/
How to Introduce Yourself to your Business Development Manager: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzuMLQxQpoFvhj_tS2mK4lv1CPzJY5JV_a4SjlANtiE/copy?usp=sharing
PODCAST11 is a code to save 11% on all my Signature Courses: www.thetraveladvisormarcie.com/courses
Keywords: travel industry insights, travel advisory success, personal growth in business, from nursing to travel advisor, navigating grief as an entrepreneur, building strong business relationships, coaching for travel advisors, mastering niche specialization, work-life balance for travel professionals, travel business strategies, finding purpose in the travel industry, career transition to travel advisory, self-care and business growth, travel advisor coaching, scaling a travel business, entrepreneurship in travel, mindset shifts for success
Welcome to The No BS Travel Advisor™️ Podcast. I’m Marcie Muensterman—your no-fluff, no-filter, tell-it-like-it-is disrupting the travel industry course writer and coach. If you’re here, chances are you’re sick of the outdated hustle culture that’s been burning you out, the bullshit advice that doesn’t work, and the constant feeling of spinning your wheels with outdated 24/mindset.
Friend, I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you—it doesn’t have to be this way.
I’ve spent 15+ years curating dream vacations for thousands of clients and I sell $1,000,000 every year in travel working less than 20 hours a week, setting boundaries, offering white-glove concierge care and building loyal relationships with my following.
But what really lights me up now? Helping travel advisors like you stop the bullshit, find your voice, and build a business that feels as good as it looks. This isn’t another fluff-filled podcast with tips you’ve heard a hundred times. Oh no. Here, we get raw. We get real. We talk about the hard shit no one else wants to say out loud.
In every episode, I’ll bring you the real stories of your colleagues, the strategies I have tuaght them, and straight-up truths you need to hear—whether it’s how to set boundaries, ditch toxic hosts, or finally charge what you’re worth. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and, if I do my job right, you’ll walk away ready to light your business on fire—in the best way possible.
In each episode, you’ll have at least three takeaways that you can start RIGHT NOW without a dollar spent to make your business better by tomorrow! And, you’ll hear their UNPOPULAR opinions each week, because you konw my “bitter ass” likes to STIR THE FUCKING POT.
So, grab a coffee, a cocktail, or whatever keeps you going, and let’s get into it. This is The No BS Travel Advisor™️ Podcast—where we rewrite the rules, one badass travel advisor at a time.
Oh and follow me on IG for all the "bitter" pot stirring: @thetraveladvisormarcie