Kelli is back with Cyndi after a whirlwind month to unpack Wander Beyond Orlando—our biggest, most heart-full retreat yet.
We walk through VIP day at the Disney monorail resorts, Student Ambassadors, the Legacy Scholarship in memory of Evie, Cyndi’s Hero’s Journey keynote, community moments (yes, the custom ears 🤩), and two huge announcements for 2026: Kenya with Tembo Wild (Nov 2026) and Alaska on Royal Caribbean (July 2026).
We also share new creative perks (the Abby Grace Collection inside Wanderlust Social) and answer a listener voice memo on AI disclosures.
In this episode you’ll learn:
How we build retreats around your business growth (workshops, audits, content labs—not just supplier talks)
Why community and mentorship fuel sustainable momentum (and what our Student Ambassadors actually do)
What’s changing for 2026 retreats (smaller caps, deeper experiences, more sellable niche content)
New creative resources: Abby Grace limited photo licenses (subscriber-only) and our partner Suitcase Designs website offer for the WLC community
How we’re honoring Evie through the Wanderland Legacy Fund scholarship
Mentions & Links:
Create your free Wanderlust Campus account to access dashboards & first-to-know drops: wanderlust-ceo.com
2026 Retreats (going live to grads/community first): Africa (Kenya, Nov 2026) • Alaska (July 2026)
Partner Perk: Suitcase Designs (COV grad-founded) — done-for-you websites from $129/mo, exclusive to WLC members
Wanderlust Social x Abby Grace limited collection (subscriber-only access)
Follow on IG: @careersonvacation @wanderlustceo
Have a question for the show?
Send us a voice memo via Instagram DM to @careersonvacation and we may feature it in a future episode.
In this episode of Bliss to Abundance, Kelli Hayes Smith and Cyndi Williams dive into one of the biggest cultural moments of the year—Taylor Swift’s engagement—and what it teaches us about marketing in the travel industry.
We talk about why authenticity is everything when weaving trends into your brand, and how understanding your ideal client shapes the way you show up in the market. From the power of SEO and local marketing strategies to building trust as a travel advisor, this conversation is packed with insights to help you grow your travel business.
You’ll also hear our take on why “travel agent” still matters for SEO, how Disney continues to be a niche with staying power, and why training the next generation of advisors is critical for the industry’s future.
Whether you’re dreaming up your next big marketing move or looking for clarity in your branding, this episode will inspire you to lean into what’s real for you and to rise with confidence in your business.
✨ Takeaways:
Pop culture moments like Taylor Swift’s engagement can fuel your marketing strategy.
Authenticity and brand voice matter more than trends.
Knowing your ideal client changes everything.
Travel agents should embrace the word “agent” for SEO visibility.
Local marketing is a game-changer for trust and growth.
Disney is still a powerful niche opportunity.
Training and certification keep our industry strong.
Join Kelli Hayes Smith and Cyndi Williams as they share fresh insights from two major travel industry events—the Star of the Seas preview and Sandals St. Vincent. This episode dives into why industry events are more than just beautiful destinations; they’re opportunities to learn, create powerful content, and connect with clients on a deeper level.
From confidence in content creation to understanding your ideal client, we’ll break down the strategies travel advisors need to market with clarity and impact. Plus, hear about a new Royal Caribbean scholarship opportunity that can open doors for aspiring travel professionals.
If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your travel experiences into a thriving business strategy, this episode is your roadmap.
Episode Summary:
In this honest and inspiring episode, Cyndi Williams and Kelli Hayes Smith open up about the why and how behind their latest rebrand. From the early days of hot pink logos and "Cartoon Cyndi" to a full brand glow-up for Wanderlust Campus™ and Tripsy, they share real behind-the-scenes moments, mindset shifts, and what it means to build a brand that evolves with you.
Whether you’re in the early stages of building your business or feeling like your branding no longer reflects your growth, this conversation is packed with advice, encouragement, and a few good laughs (plus a cameo by... coffee creamer?).
In This Episode:
How the Wanderlust brand began—and why it had to change
Why branding is more than just logos and fonts
What to do when your business (or you!) outgrow your brand
The connection between branding, ideal clients, and aligned growth
Personal stories of courage, pivoting, and stepping into your next season
Resources Mentioned:
Free Wanderlust Campus™ Account → wanderlust-ceo.com
Wander Beyond Retreat – Almost Sold Out!
Follow on IG: @wanderlustceo, @careersonvacation
Host agencies are hiring, but can’t find qualified travel advisors. In this eye-opening episode, Kelli and Cyndi dive into the Travel Weekly article that sparked a deeper conversation about burnout, barriers to entry, and the disconnect between advisor expectations and host agency realities.
We’re sharing:
Why over 60% of agencies report hiring struggles
How undertrained ICs are slowing growth and causing burnout
The difference between hobbyists and business owners
Real stats from our vetted host partners about graduate success
How boutique agencies can protect their growth (and their sanity)
Why now is the time to invest in real training and certification
This episode is a must-listen for travel advisors, host agency leaders, and anyone passionate about the future of the travel industry.
🔗 Book your FREE goal mapping session
🎟️ Grab your seat for the Wander Beyond Retreat
Episode Description:
In this bonus episode of the Bliss to Abundance Podcast, Kelli Hayes Smith chats with Royal Caribbean’s Anthony Meloro about the Ovation of the Seas — one of Royal’s most versatile and elegant ships.
They explore:
What makes Ovation stand out in the fleet
Why it’s perfect for Alaska and short Mexico itineraries
Ideal client profiles and how to qualify effectively
Group travel opportunities, including Royal Celebrations
How to increase commissions through strategic bookings
This is a must-listen for advisors looking to elevate their cruise game and deliver unforgettable experiences for their clients.
🎧 Listen in and start dreaming about whales, glass walls, and Tiki bars at sea.
🔗 Learn more at wanderlustcampus.com
In this episode, Kelli Hayes Smith and Cyndi Williams unpack one of the biggest questions in the travel business today: Where should you invest to grow sustainably?
Whether you're just getting started or scaling your agency, this conversation dives into how to make smart, strategic investments—from education to tech to marketing.
You'll hear real talk about financial awareness, red flags in the industry, and how to evaluate opportunities that actually move the needle. They also share how Wander Beyond Retreat was built to offer real ROI—not just hype.
💡 Key Takeaways
You don’t need to invest in everything—but you do need a plan.
Knowing your numbers helps you make better decisions.
The right education can shortcut years of trial and error.
Not all conferences or trainings are worth the hype—evaluate ROI carefully.
Marketing is evolving—organic alone isn’t enough anymore.
Watch out for flashy marketing with no substance.
Prioritize mentorship and strategy before scaling with tech.
Tech should support your systems—not overwhelm them.
Paid marketing isn’t optional if you want to grow.
Mistakes are part of the journey—but so is learning from them.
🎧 Sound Bites
“You don’t have to buy everything to be successful.”
“Organic reach isn’t dead—but it’s not enough.”
“We don’t just want you to feel good—we want you to grow.”
“Strategy comes before automation.”
“Wander Beyond was designed to give you real ROI, not just inspiration.”
⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 – Kicking off the conversation on smart investments03:03 – What new agents really need to spend on first05:53 – How knowing your financials builds confidence08:40 – What to look for in courses, programs, and events11:39 – Red flags in industry marketing14:26 – Building an intentional investment strategy21:55 – Why so many agents get stuck in the marketing phase24:48 – How to avoid wasted spend on paid advertising28:06 – Lessons learned from marketing mistakes30:45 – Tech tools vs. tech overwhelm: finding the balance32:53 – The power of mentorship and coaching at the right time35:34 – Vetting tools, tech, and marketing partners36:26 – What makes Wander Beyond Retreat a strategic investment
🎧 New Podcast Description
This week’s episode is inspired by a powerful leadership conversation inside Wanderlust Campus — and it’s one travel professionals can’t afford to miss.
Kelli is joined by Cyndi Williams and the brilliant Jamie Santillo of Adventures by Jamie (and Wanderlust Campus coaching team!), who shares how her travel agency is seeing over 60% year-over-year growth.
Think travel sales are down? Think again. We’re pulling back the curtain on real sales data, industry shifts, and the exact strategies that are helping top-performing travel advisors not just survive — but scale.
We cover:
📈 Why some advisors are growing while others are struggling
💡 The marketing mistakes costing you clients
🌍 The rise of international and rail travel
🔄 The secret to creating repeat business
🤝 Why training in silos is holding the industry back
💬 The difference between traffic and conversion — and why you are the product
Plus, we’re inviting you to a free Wanderlust Campus Open House where you can ask your biggest questions and see what it’s really like behind the curtain.
🎟️ Register for the Open House: https://wanderlust-ceo.com/open-houses/
🧭 Get Your Free Wanderlust Campus Account: www.wanderlust-ceo.com
📲 Follow Jamie: www.instagram.com/adventuresbyjamie
Episode Description:
This week’s travel headlines are big—and we’re unpacking them all. Kelli Hayes Smith and Cyndi Williams dive into the stories making waves in the travel advisor world, from a real overboard incident on Disney Dream to the busiest travel week in 15 years, AI trip planning tools, and shocking Facebook account deletions.
In this episode:
[00:01] Disney Dream incident: how to handle tough conversations with clients
[06:43] TSA & AAA numbers confirm the biggest travel surge in 15 years
[08:47] Niching, flexibility, and riding the travel trend waves
[10:43] Loyalty marketing strategies to increase repeat clients
[14:52] Flight cancellations, crisis management & advisor visibility
[18:40] Why training programs matter (and most are falling short)
[26:58] Google’s AI Trip Planner: threat or opportunity?
[33:56] Using AI as a tool—not a replacement—for real service
[37:11] “We Called It”: Facebook accounts being deleted for mass content
[46:00] The exact policies Meta is cracking down on
[52:26] Final reminders for Wander Beyond and our July 3rd payment plan deadline
🎟️ Get your Wander Beyond ticket: Join us October 2–3 at the Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World. Four-payment plans end July 3rd!
🎓 Access our free trainings + global calendar: Sign up for your free account at Wanderlust Campus.
💬 Have questions? DM us on Instagram or Facebook!
In this episode of the Bliss to Abundance podcast, join Kelli Hayes Smith as she chats with Stephanie Gries from Travefy to explore the art of crafting impactful travel itineraries for clients. From avoiding common mistakes to using technology and visual storytelling, Stephanie provides actionable tips to elevate client engagement and make your itineraries shine.
Together, they dive into:
Whether you’re a seasoned travel agent or just starting, this episode is packed with insights to help you deliver standout travel experiences that keep clients coming back for more.
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Us:
In this episode of Bliss to Abundance, Kelli Hayes Smith and Jen Haslacker dive deep into the world of travel insurance.
They discuss why clients are often hesitant to purchase travel insurance and how travel advisors can address these concerns with confidence.
From debunking common misconceptions to sharing real-life testimonials, they explore practical ways to integrate insurance into the client journey.
Whether it’s protecting your clients, your commission, or your reputation, this episode offers everything you need to position insurance as an essential part of travel planning.
What You’ll Learn:
Resources Mentioned:
Get Social with Us: Let’s keep the conversation going!
Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Bliss to Abundance, Kelli Hayes Smith welcomes Justin Hinkel, CEO of Suitcase Designs, to dive into the world of website design for travel agents.
Together, they explore how a well-designed website can transform your business by building trust with your clients. From harnessing the power of testimonials and reviews to showcasing certifications and creating an on-brand user experience, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you stand out online and grow your travel business.
What You’ll Learn:
Sound Bites:
Resources Mentioned:
Get Social with Us:
Let’s keep the conversation going!
Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @careersonvacation
Facebook: @WanderlustCEO
Website: Wanderlust Campus
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! 🌟
Summary
Welcome to an inspiring conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and industry experts Molly Johnson and Brad Turner from TERN. We’re diving deep into the world of workflows and how they can transform the way travel agents work. If you're looking to save time, boost efficiency, and create unforgettable client experiences, this episode is for you.
Learn about the must-have workflows that every travel agent needs, from managing new leads to keeping client touchpoints on track.
We’ll also explore how technology, including AI, can take your business to the next level. Discover how TERN’s CRM and project management platform is designed to help you streamline your operations and achieve your goals with confidence.
Show Notes :
Join us on the Bliss to Abundance podcast as Wanderlust’s George Flynn and Kelli Hayes Smith explore the spine-chilling world of haunted travel! Discover eerie destinations across the U.S. and beyond, from the mystical streets of New Orleans to the historic charm of Salem, the ghostly fields of Gettysburg, and Charleston's haunted tales. We’ll also venture into iconic sites like The Stanley Hotel and Dracula’s castle in Romania.
In this episode, George and Kelli delve into the fascinating world of spooky travel and its pop culture connections. From haunted bus tours and the Tower of London to the eerie Annabelle doll and gripping crime museums, they explore how these places blend entertainment with a deep connection to history. Tune in for insights on approaching these haunted sites with respect and understanding.
Summary
Join us for a conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and Justin Hinkle as they dive into the essential role of a website for travel professionals.
Discover why a polished online presence is non-negotiable and how a compelling homepage can captivate potential clients.
Learn about the power of a Google Business Page in establishing credibility and legitimacy. We explore the incredible benefits of websites in boosting SEO, driving content marketing, and generating leads.
Plus, find out why a mobile-friendly, responsive website is key to a seamless user experience. Our discussion wraps up with invaluable insights on tracking website metrics and leveraging data to enhance your online effectiveness.
Takeaways
Chapters
LINKS :
Join Kelli Hayes Smith and Jonathan Morris of Legato host as they explore the exciting possibilities of becoming a travel agent in today's vibrant market. Together, they dispel the myth that succeeding as a travel agent is a thing of the past and affirm that it's absolutely achievable. Discover the immense value that travel agents bring, especially to millennials who appreciate their expertise and personalized service.
They dive into the challenges new agents face, such as industry fragmentation and the importance of finding a niche. They also emphasize the power of community over competition and the necessity for agents to embrace technology and deliver exceptional service.
Travel agent, becoming an agent, market potential, value of travel agents, specialization, industry fragmentation, community over competition, technology, exceptional service
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Is it Still Possible to Become a Travel Agent? 03:10 - The Value of Using a Travel Agent in Today's Market 09:48 - Navigating the Fragmented Travel Industry 13:09 - Specializing in a Niche to Stand Out as an Agent 19:21 - The Importance of Collaboration and Community in the Travel Industry 28:22 - Avoiding MLM Agencies and Ensuring Data Security 34:01 - Choosing the Right Host Agency and Training
Episode Highlight
Join Kelli Hayes Smith as she sits down with Jen Haslacker, the dynamic Sales Director for Host Agency Partnerships at Arch Roam Right, to delve into the crucial role travel insurance plays for both travelers and travel advisors.
Listen to Kelli and Jen as they explore the numerous benefits of travel insurance, from post-departure coverage and medical benefits to protection against trip cancellations and delays.
Jen emphasizes why recommending travel insurance is essential for travel advisors to safeguard their clients and their own businesses.
She also shares insightful tips on selecting the right insurance company, presenting insurance options to clients, and effectively handling claims.
Additionally, the episode touches on the importance of commission protection and showcases some fascinating stories of unexpected claims.
Tune in for an inspiring and informative episode that highlights the indispensable value of travel insurance, ensuring you and your clients are well-protected and prepared for any journey!
Summary
At the Path Symposium, we delved into cybersecurity and the evolving landscape of education in the travel industry.
Key insights highlighted the critical need to safeguard against fraud and scams, underscored the importance of robust education and training for travel advisors, and shed light on the intricate tech stack new agents must navigate.
Our industry is dedicated to nurturing and empowering the next generation of travel advisors, ensuring they bring professionalism and value to their clients.
Wanderlust Campus stands at the forefront, offering comprehensive training and education to tackle these challenges head-on.
Path Symposium, cybersecurity, education, travel industry, fraud, scams, training, tech stack, professionalism, value
Episode Highlights:
Come along for an eye-opening chat as Kelli Hayes Smith sits down with Angela Hughes, the mastermind behind Trips and Ships Luxury Travel. They dive deep into Angela's journey, from a greenhorn in the travel biz to dominating the luxury travel game.
Key Points Covered:
Coaching & Mentoring: Angela stresses how crucial it is to guide and support new agents through their career path. Coaching isn’t just about giving advice; it's about nurturing growth and overcoming obstacles.
The Luxury Conundrum: What screams luxury to you might not resonate with someone else. Angela breaks down this subjective concept, urging agents to understand their clients' unique definitions of luxury.
High-End Sales & Profitability: Angela spills the beans on her secret recipe: selling top-notch products to boost your bank balance. Knowing your ideal client is the key to success.
Navigating Mistakes: From choosing the wrong host agency to battling confidence issues, Angela and Kelli dish out advice on steering clear of common pitfalls.
Key Takeaways:
Coaching Counts: For aspiring agents, having a mentor can make all the difference in the world.
Define Luxury: It's not just about fancy hotels and first-class flights; it's about understanding what luxury means to your clients.
Money Talks: Selling premium experiences isn't just a treat for clients; it's a savvy move for your wallet too.
Choose Wisely: Your choice of host agency can make or break your career. Invest wisely in your business for long-term success.
Believe & Achieve: Confidence isn't just nice to have; it's a must-have for success in travel.
Community & Connections: To attract clients, get out there! Build bridges, forge connections, and watch your client base grow.
Stay Sharp: The travel industry is always changing. Keep learning, adapting, and thriving.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation, sprinkled with invaluable insights for both budding and seasoned travel agents alike.
LINKS
Today, Cyndi sits down with experts in Run Disney to help you understand how to sell Run Disney in your travel business.