As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, few destinations are more central to the story than Williamsburg, Virginia.

In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Edward Harris, President & CEO of Visit Williamsburg, to discuss leading a destination through a once-in-a-generation moment while preparing for what comes next.

Edward shares his unconventional journey from global brands like Converse, Timberland, Under Armour, and eBay into destination leadership, revealing how lessons from the highly competitive consumer products world continue to shape his approach to tourism marketing today.

Together, they explore the importance of collaboration, the courage required to test new ideas, the challenge of evolving a destination beyond a single identity, and why the future of Williamsburg may be just as exciting as its past.

Whether you're a destination leader, marketer, or aspiring tourism professional, this conversation offers valuable lessons about innovation, storytelling, and creating momentum that lasts long after the spotlight fades.

Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.

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What does it take to transform perceptions, inspire a community, and lead a destination through change?

In this episode of Business Class, Learn Tourism's Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Peter Gamez, President & CEO of Visit Oakland, to explore the power of positive storytelling, servant leadership, and collaboration in destination marketing.

Growing up in San Francisco as the son of Cuban immigrants, Peter developed a deep appreciation for education, community, and cultural identity. After spending more than two decades helping build Kimpton Hotels into one of the most influential boutique hospitality brands in the world, he made the leap into destination leadership.

Peter shares how Oakland's people inspire his work, why tourism professionals need a seat at the economic development table, and how changing a destination's narrative can create lasting impact. Along the way, he reflects on lessons learned from hospitality pioneers, the importance of mentorship, and why curiosity remains one of the most valuable leadership traits.

Whether you're a destination leader, hospitality professional, or simply passionate about creating stronger communities, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for leading with purpose.

In this episode:

• Why collaboration beats competition in tourism
• How positive storytelling can transform perceptions
• The leadership lessons Peter learned from hospitality visionaries
• Tourism's role as an economic development strategy
• The future of AI in destination marketing
• What makes Oakland one of America's most soulful destinations

Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.

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What does it take to make career moves that everyone else thinks are impossible?

In this episode of Learn Tourism's Business Class podcast, Stephen Ekstrom sits down with Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago, to explore the mindset behind one of the tourism industry's most remarkable leadership journeys. From public relations and lobbying to leading destination organizations in New York and now one of the world's premier visitor destinations, Kristen shares how curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to take risks helped her overcome every "you can't do that" moment along the way.

They discuss career growth, imposter syndrome, leadership, lifelong learning, family sacrifices, and why the future belongs to leaders who are willing to bet on themselves. Along the way, Kristen reveals the four principles that have guided her success: passion, purpose, performance, and positivity.

Whether you're a student, emerging professional, or seasoned destination leader, this conversation is a masterclass in turning ambition into action.

Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.

Support the show