Tourism Hub Podcast with Despina Karatzias

In this exciting episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias embarks on a transformative journey with the launch of a seven-part series, celebrating the release of her new ebook, "Top 25 Marketing Mistakes Small Businesses Must Avoid to Thrive." This episode is the first in a series designed to equip tourism professionals with the foundational tools needed to excel in 2025. Despina delves into the intricacies of crafting a robust marketing plan, distinguishing it from a business plan, and emphasising its role as a strategic backbone for customer acquisition and engagement. She highlights the importance of a documented marketing strategy, noting that businesses with such plans are significantly more likely to succeed. Despina provides actionable insights into setting SMART goals, understanding target audiences, and leveraging digital marketing to create a customer-centric approach. Listeners will learn how to conduct a SWOT analysis to assess strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, ensuring a proactive and strategic approach to marketing. Despina also shares her personal experiences, offering practical steps to build a consistent and engaging social media and content marketing strategy, tailored to resonate with today's value-driven consumers. The episode underscores the importance of competitive research, encouraging tourism operators to understand market trends and differentiate their offerings. Despina wraps up with guidance on budgeting and tracking results, emphasising the need for data-driven decisions to maximise marketing impact. Tune in to discover how to lay the groundwork for a successful 2025 with a clear, focused, and strategic marketing plan that aligns with your business goals and meets the evolving expectations of your audience. 02:30 - A well planned marketing strategy is one of the most powerful tools in your business 08:36 - Using the SMART framework is the first step in creating a strong marketing plan 10:18 - Understanding your target audience is crucial to effective marketing 16:25 - Using a SWOT analysis can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses 18:04 - Building a social media and content marketing strategy within your marketing plan is crucial 29:14 - A successful marketing plan requires a realistic and intentional budget and target 32:26 - Download our free ebook 25 Marketing Mistakes to Avoid in 2025 Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Let's make 2025 your strongest year yet!

In this compelling episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias sits down with Mark Olsen, CEO of Tropical North Queensland, to discuss the critical importance of readiness and resilience in the tourism industry. As regions across Australia prepare for the summer season, Mark shares invaluable insights into the necessity of proactive planning and mental health support for tourism businesses facing climate challenges. Mark recounts the devastating impact of record-breaking floods in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for the industry to not only focus on attracting visitors but also ensuring their safety. He stresses the importance of holistic support for tourism businesses, considering both financial stability and mental wellbeing, especially in the face of increasing crises. The conversation delves into the significance of accreditation in crisis management, with Mark advocating for preparedness through the "Get Ready Week" initiative. He underscores the need for clear communication strategies and media engagement to accurately portray the resilience and recovery of affected areas. Tune in to learn how tourism operators can build robust networks and plans to navigate future challenges, ensuring they are not just surviving but thriving in the ever-evolving tourism landscape. 01:11 - October is Get Ready Week for Queensland's tourism industry 02:51 - Australian Regional Tourism Collective meeting to discuss response to December flooding 08:57 - The tourism industry needs to take preparedness seriously ahead of December 23rd 11:03 - Mark: The media always focus on the negative. So we need to be willing to challenge that Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay resilient, stay informed, and keep pushing the boundaries of excellence in tourism!

In this innovative episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias introduces a groundbreaking approach by delivering the episode through her AI-powered avatar, DespinAI. Episode 50 marks a milestone as Despina explores the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the tourism industry, offering practical insights into how AI can revolutionize marketing and operational efficiencies for tourism operators. Despina delves into the myriad ways AI can enhance business operations, from content creation and automating social media interactions to managing online reputations and generating captivating videos. She emphasizes the importance of balancing automation with the human touch, ensuring that AI serves as a tool to amplify authenticity and connection in tourism experiences. Listeners will discover four actionable AI applications to boost marketing and day-to-day operations: simplifying content creation with AI tools like ChatGPT, automating visitor messaging and social media, managing visitor feedback efficiently with Review Pro, and creating engaging video content with platforms like Lumen 5 and Capcut. Despina also highlights the pros and cons of integrating AI into business operations, providing a balanced view of its potential and challenges. As Despina shares her journey experimenting with AI, she inspires tourism professionals to explore these technologies, demonstrating that AI isn't just for big businesses but is accessible and beneficial for all. With an action plan to kickstart your AI journey, this episode is a call to embrace innovation and explore new possibilities in the tourism sector. 00:55 - Using AI to improve marketing and communications can boost efficiency and customer engagement 08:00 - AI powered platforms make it easy to create professional videos without hassle 09:19 - The Pros and Cons of AI in Business Operations AI technology is reshaping businesses 14:56 - Small business owners can embrace AI to scale their presence and explore new possibilities 16:05 - Actionable steps to help you start your AI journey Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay curious, stay inspired, and most importantly, stay human!

In this insightful episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias delves into the evolving experience economy in Australia and New Zealand. With a focus on the latest report from Arrival, Despina unpacks key trends, challenges, and opportunities for tourism experience makers in the region. As she navigates through the comprehensive insights from the report, she reflects on what these findings mean for businesses across the region. Despina discusses the importance of the experience economy, especially in the post-pandemic landscape where local and domestic tourism has rebounded more quickly than international markets. She highlights the critical nature of adapting to new trends, such as the rise in online and mobile bookings, and the necessity for businesses to leverage digital marketing and mobile optimisation. The episode also covers the adoption of dynamic pricing models, which allow businesses to maximise profitability during peak times and encourage bookings during quieter periods. Despina emphasises the need for small tourism operators to embrace technology and reduce reliance on OTAs to remain competitive. Tune in to discover actionable insights and strategies, including the use of booking software and channel managers, to optimise operations and improve business performance. Despina wraps up with key takeaways and an action plan designed to help tourism operators thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. 01:43 - Breaking down the data: Key takeaways from the arrival report 03:33 - The pivotal role of the experience economy in modern tourism 04:54 - Survey of 318 operators on dynamic pricing across Australia and New Zealand 08:46 - 44% of operators report booking volumes surpassing 2019 levels post-pandemic 10:30 - Half of all operators now use channel managers for efficient booking management 12:59 - Austrade report: 5,000 small tourism businesses projected to close between 2019-2023 15:44 - Reflecting on the evolution of the experience economy in Australia and New Zealand References: Arrival: https://arrival.com Austrade: https://www.austrade.gov.au Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay curious, stay adventurous, and let's continue building a stronger tourism industry together!

In this groundbreaking episode of the Tourism Hub podcast, we’re honoured to have not one but two international experts on the show. Host Despina Karatzia welcomes Jane Thompson and Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos of ICF. A long time friend and colleague, Nikolaos is Tourism Hub's first returning guest, making history as our first repeat appearance on the show! In this episode, Jane Thompson and Nikolaos Golfinopoulos from ICF highlight the organisation’s mission to build a more prosperous and resilient world through sustainable projects across various sectors, including aviation and tourism. Jane discusses the aviation industry's move toward sustainability, focusing on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a key solution to reducing carbon emissions by 2050. Nikolaos emphasises the importance of heat resilience in tourism, urging destinations to adapt to climate change through strategic planning. Both experts highlight the need for empathy, collaboration, and innovative solutions to address global challenges. They also share examples of best practices in sustainable tourism, such as Rwanda's well-managed gorilla tracking and Australia's commitment to environmental responsibility. Ultimately, the episode calls for using technology like AI to enhance efficiencies while maintaining human-centred approaches in solving tourism’s biggest challenges. 02:29 - Nikolaos discusses his journey at ICF 06:07 - SAF: The most realistic near-term solution for aviation 17:21 - The complexity of tourism and its challenges 18:01 - Nikolaos emphasises the urgency of climate action 27:25 - Australia's strong approach to sustainability measurement 29:46 - Best practices: Guerrilla families become gamekeepers 31:11 - World Travel and Tourism Council Forum in Perth, Australia 32:02 - NWA's sustainable tourism action plan for pilot destinations 38:05 - ICF's AI investment to improve tourism innovation 46:01 - Nikolaos and Jane discuss the future of tourism 50:27 - Jane and Nikolaos talk heat resilience in tourism About Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos Nikolaos is the Head of Tourism of ICF, based in Madrid, Spain. He has 10+ years of experience in international tourism development. In his role with ICF, Nikolaos is working for and towards a sustainable future. He supports countries, destinations, and the private sector in solving their most complex tourism challenges related to climate change, heat resilience, social sustainability, crisis management and recovery, stakeholder engagement, and ever-evolving tourism trends. He places at the forefront of any development recommendations and action plans the inclusion of the local communities and the protection of natural assets. Throughout his career, he has recorded successful tourism development initiatives with governments and international donors. Nikolaos holds a M.A. of International Sustainable Tourism Management from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, and a BSc in Economic Sciences from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. He has lived and worked in Greece, Australia, and Spain. Before joining ICF, he worked as a tourism consultant and research supervisor in Australia, followed by seven years of service at the UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization). He held multiple roles within UN Tourism and in 2021, was appointed to the post of Senior Project Specialist within the Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department. Nikolaos is currently actively involved in international projects on tourism sustainability, master planning, decarbonisation, and maritime tourism. He leads ICF´s tourism practice and engagement with key international industry bodies such us UN Tourism, the World Travel and Tourism Council, and the Global Travel and Tourism Resilience Council. He is a strong advocate of the role of tourism in contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More on Nikos:...

In this engaging episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias delves into the dynamic world of visitor servicing. Fresh from the Victorian Visitor Services Summit in Ballarat, Despina shares her insights and reflections on the evolving landscape of engaging visitors online. With shoutouts to industry leaders and case studies that highlight innovative content strategies, this episode is packed with inspiration for tourism professionals and businesses alike. Despina discussed practical strategies for enhancing digital engagement in visitor servicing, emphasising the importance of treating online interactions with the same priority as face-to-face encounters. Shw draws from international models to explore how visitor information centres can transform into dynamic experience hubs, leveraging technology to create personalised and memorable visitor experiences. Whether you're in tourism, retail, or any customer-facing industry, these insights are designed to elevate your service game and ensure every interaction is meaningful and impactful. Tune in to discover how to integrate AI, automation, and personalisation into your customer service strategy, and why it's crucial to respond swiftly to digital inquiries. 06:41 - The principles behind visitor servicing apply to any industry where you engage with people 10:51 - Importance of personalisation in online interactions 19:51 - Tourism Hub podcast concludes with insights from the Victorian Visitor Information Services Summit References: Victorian Tourism Industry Council: https://www.vtic.com.au Australian Regional Tourism Network: https://www.regionaltourism.com.au Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this special episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias celebrates the upcoming Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Convention and the launch of an exciting new partnership with the Australian Regional Tourism Network. This episode is a nostalgic throwback featuring insightful interviews with legends of the Australian tourism industry, including Peter Freeman of Wolf Media, Liz Ward from Tourism Tribe, Sarah Omara from Flare Access, and Meryn Ozols from Fluro Peninsula Tourism and many more. Join us as we delve into the incredible work being done in Australian regional tourism, from accessible tourism initiatives to innovative digital marketing strategies. This episode is packed with valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and inspiring stories from industry leaders who are making a significant impact in regional tourism. Whether you're a tourism professional or simply passionate about travel, this episode is sure to inspire and inform. 2:26 Sarah O_mara from Flare Access 10:49 Peter Freeman from WOOF Medida 31:28 Paula Freeman from Visit Rural 42:15 Georgia Lazzari from City of Newcastle 53:29 Kate Mather from Destionation Kiama and South Coast Experiences 59:21 Merrin Ozols from Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism 1:09:23 Forbes Jamieson 1:21:35 Scott Taylor from Guru Production 1:29:36 Liz Ward from Tourism Tribe References: Australian Regional Tourism Network: https://www.regionaltourism.com.au Tourism Tribe: https://www.tourismtribe.com Wolf Media: https://www.wolfmedia.com.au Flare Access: https://www.flareaccess.com.au Visit Rural: https://www.visitrural.com.au City of Newcastle: https://www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au Destination Kiama: https://www.kiama.com.au Fluro Peninsula Tourism: https://www.flurotourism.com.au Book Easy: https://www.bookeasy.com.au Guru Productions: https://www.guruproductions.com.au Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this unique episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias takes us on an exhilarating journey through regional Victoria with Green Pedal Cycles. Join Despina as she experiences her first electric bike tour in Echuca, guided by David Barry of Green Pedal Cycles. Discover the joy of cycling through picturesque landscapes, learning about the rich history and vibrant community of Echuca and Moama. Despina reflects on the importance of sustainable tourism and the incredible impact small tourism operators like Green Pedal Cycles have on both visitors and the local community. David shares insights into their journey from electric bike enthusiasts to successful tourism operators, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. This episode is a delightful mix of personal anecdotes, historical tidbits, and inspiring stories of resilience and innovation in the tourism industry. Whether you're a seasoned tourism professional or simply a lover of travel and adventure, this episode is sure to ignite your passion for exploring new destinations in a sustainable and joyful way. 07:32 - Tourism Hub podcast with David Barry on a bike tour of Echuca 10:03 - Victoria's Campaspe River is one of the most volatile rivers 14:26 - The flooding in Rochester did not do well for the tourism industry 27:05 - The Murray river is cleanest and the healthiest it's been 31:47 - What's been the most surprising thing about working in tourism or the visitor economy? 36:13 - David started with only two bikes 59:22 - David says you need to make a sound plan before embarking on startup References: Green Pedal Cycles: https://www.greenpedal.com.au Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this heartfelt episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias takes a poignant departure from the usual business-centric discussions to pay tribute to the late Associate Professor Joanne Pyke. Joanne, a visionary leader in sustainable tourism, left an indelible mark on the industry and the lives of those who had the privilege to know her. Despina reflects on Joanne's remarkable contributions, her dedication to sustainability, diversity, and community wellbeing, and the personal impact of her loss. Joanne Pyke's legacy is celebrated through her extensive work, including her pivotal research on building resilience in tourism destinations and her commitment to sustainable practices in large-scale events like religious tourism. Despina shares personal anecdotes and memories, highlighting Joanne's deep and meaningful collaborations within academia and the industry, and her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact. This episode is a moving reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of seizing opportunities to connect, engage, and make meaningful contributions. Despina also reflects on her own experiences of loss, emphasising the value of cherishing loved ones and prioritising what truly matters. Join us in this special tribute as we honour Joanne Pyke's extraordinary life and work, and find inspiration in her legacy to continue striving for a better, more sustainable future in tourism. References: BBC World Service - Greening the Hajj: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0j2x536 Building The Resilience of Tourism Destinations to Disasters: https://www.vu.edu.au/sites/default/files/tourism-resilience-report.pdf Joanne Pyke Research Publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joanne-Pyke-2 Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias is joined by the inspiring Giovanna Lever, owner and leader of Sparrowly Group. Giovanna shares her incredible journey from growing up in Bundaberg, Queensland, to becoming a highly respected figure in the Australian tourism industry. With a background in sports marketing and significant roles at Tourism Australia, Giovanna's path to entrepreneurship is filled with valuable lessons in resilience, business acumen, and the importance of human connection. Giovanna delves into her upbringing as the daughter of Italian immigrants, the early responsibilities that shaped her financial intelligence, and her transformative experiences in various roles. She discusses the inception of Sparrowly Group, the values that drive her business, and the importance of professional and personal development for her team. Giovanna also highlights her work in agri-tourism, accessible tourism, and economic development, emphasising the need for farmer-driven initiatives and the future of these sectors in Australia. Throughout the episode, Giovanna's authenticity, trustworthiness, and entrepreneurial spirit shine through, offering listeners a wealth of insights and inspiration. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their tourism business and career. 10:16 - Responsibility in a young age when parents migrate to Australia 11:17 - Serendipitous Start of Giovanna in the Tourism Industry 17:48 - A Desire for Business Ownership 24:25 - Strategic Start-up: Funding the Baking Business 27:29 - Evidence-Based Approach: Sparrowly's Research Focus 29:15 - Lee Caruso created spirerly group from the beginning 42:46 - Agri-Tourism: Working with Farmers for Diversification 50:53 - Reflecting on Difficult Times and Career Challenges References: Sparrowly Group: https://www.sparrowly.com Giovanna Lever on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giovannalever/ Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode, host Despina Karatzias takes us on a journey into the evolving world of digital economies, platformisation, and the concept of free labour. Discover how major platforms like Airbnb, Facebook, and Instagram are reshaping the Australian tourism sector and what this means for small businesses. Dive deep into the power dynamics, ethical considerations, and the importance of adopting the PESO model for a more sustainable digital strategy. Don't miss this insightful discussion that promises to elevate your tourism business and career! 01:09 - The Free Labor Factory: How Platforms Profit from Unpaid Work 04:25 - The Growing Concern of Platform Data Extraction and Monopolisation 06:29 - The Platform Trap: When Value Fades and Costs Rise 09:44 - Reimagining Digital Success Beyond Platforms 12:47 - The Digital Economy, Platformization and Free Labor References and resources: 2024 Peso Model Primer for Communicators https://spinsucks.com/communication/pr-pros-must-embrace-the-peso-model/ The Social Dilemma https://www.netflix.com/ph-en/title/81254224 Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, Despina Karatzias welcomes Sarah Poole, a dynamic entrepreneur who has seamlessly blended her passion for people, hospitality, and craft beer into a thriving tourism business. Sarah shares her inspiring journey from owning a technology consulting firm to relocating her family to the north coast of New South Wales and opening the Whoopi Brewing Company. Sarah delves into her lifelong love for tourism and hospitality, emphasising the importance of connecting with people and delivering exceptional experiences. She discusses the challenges and rewards of starting a craft brewery in a regional town, highlighting the critical role of mentorship and thorough research in her success. Sarah's story is a testament to the power of determination, community collaboration, and the ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity. Throughout the episode, Sarah offers valuable insights into managing multiple businesses, the significance of health and well-being for entrepreneurs, and the importance of maintaining a customer-centric approach. She also shares practical tips on planning, action-taking, and building a supportive team culture. 01:40 - From Craft Beer to Community 11:48 - Commitment and Belief: Building a Brewery 17:09 - Impacting the Community 23:33 - Empowering Women in Business 28:17 - Overcoming Procrastination 29:00 - The Importance of a Clear Plan 38:42 - Building a Strong Team 46:22 - Investing in Yourself 50:44 - Quality Tourism and Quality Businesses 52:48 - Overcoming Initial Fears 54:21 - Essential Online Resources 56:14 - Habits for Business Success References: Whoopi Brewing Company: https://www.whoopibrewingco.com.au Sarah Poole: https://www.sarahpoole.com.au Connect with Sarah Poole: Website: Sarah Poole Instagram: @sarahpoole LinkedIn: Sarah Poole Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias dives into the essence of building a quality tourism business. Despina introduces the Quality Tourism Business Programme, a comprehensive initiative developed in partnership with the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC). This episode is a step-by-step guide designed to help tourism businesses thrive through accreditation and excellence from the inside out. Despina passionately walks you through the ten modules of the programme, each crafted to provide practical and actionable insights. From understanding the multi-layered ecosystem of the visitor economy and mastering financial planning to executing dynamic marketing strategies and fostering a positive workplace culture, this episode covers it all. Despina also emphasises the importance of sustainability, cultural awareness, and accessibility in creating an inclusive and impactful tourism business. Whether you're new to the tourism industry or a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your strategies, this episode offers valuable lessons to drive meaningful change and elevate your business to new heights. Grab your favourite drink, get comfortable, and join Despina on this journey towards quality tourism business building magic. References: Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC): https://www.vtic.com.au Quality Tourism Australia: https://www.qualitytourismaustralia.com Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence.

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, Despina Karatzias ventures into the heart of small business at the Brentford Shopping Centre in Victoria, featuring an inspiring conversation with Mel and Penny from Eyewear Architects. Discover how these small business champions bring a unique blend of passion, expertise, and community spirit to independent optometry. Mel and Penny share their journey from the early days of their careers to becoming spectacle makers with a rare skill set. They delve into the differences between independent and corporate optometry, highlighting the personalised care and deep knowledge they offer to their clients. The conversation explores the importance of lifestyle dispensing, where understanding a client's daily activities and needs leads to better vision solutions. Learn about the challenges and rewards of running a small business, from marketing and social media to building a strong team and community connections. Mel and Penny's story is a testament to the power of collaboration, continuous learning, and the courage to take the leap into entrepreneurship. 02:1808:5110:2716:5317:3827:2228:0530:0234:2239:1341:1651:0553:5859:25 References: Eyewear Architects: https://www.eyeweararchitects.com.au Business Victoria: https://www.business.vic.gov.au Women of Whitehorse: https://www.womenofwhitehorse.com.au Connect with Eyewear Architects: Website: Eyewear Architects Instagram: @eyeweararchitects Facebook: Eyewear Architects Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias The show is hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Institute of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias delves into the critical importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for businesses in 2024 and beyond. Despina shares her personal journey of elevating the Institute of Excellence's content through a search engine optimised lens, focusing on marketing, driving traffic, brand awareness, and educational experiences. Despina discusses how quieter times, particularly in southern Australia, present the perfect opportunity to innovate and take control of your content creation and marketing strategies. She emphasises the importance of SEO in making your business findable to potential customers who are seeking solutions that you offer. The episode covers a comprehensive understanding of SEO and transitions into the realms of Search Generative Experience (SGE) and AI-driven SEO. Despina explains Google's E-E-A-T framework (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) and its evolution, which is crucial for enhancing your brand's trustworthiness and authority in Google's eyes. You will learn about the key components of SEO, including keyword research, on-page optimization, off-page optimization, technical SEO, and content creation. Despina also introduces the concepts of SGE and Search GPT, highlighting their advanced capabilities in providing contextual and personalised search experiences. By the end of the episode, you'll have actionable insights to take control of your content, whether you choose to do it yourself, collaborate with others, or outsource it. Despina encourages continuous learning, adaptation, and taking proactive steps to stay ahead in the digital world. References: Google E-E-A-T Framework: https://www.google.com/search/howsearchworks/algorithms/ Google Analytics: https://analytics.google.com/ Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias sits down with Torie from Moonraker Dolphin Swims to discuss the fascinating journey of running a family-owned marine tourism business on the Mornington Peninsula. Torie shares the origins of Moonraker, started by her parents in 1990, and how she grew up immersed in the business, making it her own. They delve into the importance of being hands-on in every aspect of the business, from cleaning to making executive decisions, and the value of delivering exceptional customer service. Torie explains the significance of responding to every customer review, both positive and negative, and how it shapes the business. She also highlights the importance of being human in business interactions, providing personalised responses, and ensuring customer satisfaction. The conversation covers the evolution of the tourism industry, especially post-COVID, and the shift towards grassroots businesses and new market players. They discuss the challenges and rewards of running a marine tourism business, the importance of local and national awards, and the strategies used to maintain a high level of service and customer satisfaction. Torie also shares insights into staff management, risk mitigation, and the benefits of offering guarantees to customers. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and inspiration for anyone in the tourism industry. References: Moonraker Dolphin Swims: https://www.moonrakercharters.com.au Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards: https://www.mpbusinessawards.com.au Tourism Australia: https://www.tourism.australia.com Resdy Booking System: https://www.resdy.com Connect with Torie and Moonraker Dolphin Swims: Website:https://www.moonrakercharters.com.au Instagram:@moonrakerdolphinswims Facebook:Moonraker Dolphin Swims #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted byDespina Karatziasand brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook:Institute of Excellence|Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias reflects on her transformative experience at the Curtin University Accessibility Challenge in Perth. Despina shares her journey of pursuing a Master's degree in Digital and Social Media at Curtin and how this challenge has deepened her understanding of accessibility in the tourism industry. Despina discusses the importance of viewing disability not as a limitation, but as a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and change. She delves into the medical and social models of disability, emphasising the need for society to adapt and accommodate all individuals. Learn about the Welcome Framework and Australia's Disability Strategy, and how they can help tourism operators create more inclusive experiences. Throughout the episode, Despina highlights the significance of inclusive design principles and the benefits of integrating accessibility into various sectors, including tourism, education, and the arts. She also shares her personal commitment to advocating for accessibility and raising awareness within the tourism industry. Join Despina as she takes you through her insights and learnings from the challenge, and discover how you can contribute to creating a more inclusive future. References: Curtin University: https://www.curtin.edu.au Australia's Disability Strategy 2021-2031: https://www.disabilitygateway.gov.au/ads Welcome Framework: https://www.pushadventures.com.au/welcome-framework/ Stella Young's TED Talk on Inspiration Porn: https://www.ted.com/talks/stella_young_i_m_not_your_inspiration_thank_you_very_much Bruno Booth: https://www.brunobooth.com/ Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias The show is hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Institute of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias sits down with Nic Cooper, the founder of Wild Adventures Melbourne (WAM). Nic shares his fascinating journey from growing up in a bed and breakfast in England to establishing his own eco-adventure business on the Mornington Peninsula. Discover how Nic's childhood experiences and passion for nature led him to create a tourism business that prioritises sustainability and community impact. Nic delves into the challenges and rewards of becoming a certified B Corp, explaining the rigorous process and the continuous commitment to environmental and social responsibility. He also discusses the importance of providing eco-friendly experiences that educate and inspire guests, fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting conscious travel. Learn about the innovative practices Nic employs to ensure his business not only minimises negative impacts but also contributes positively to the local environment and community. Throughout the conversation, Nic highlights the significance of collaboration and community support in the tourism industry, sharing insights into how local businesses can work together to create a thriving, sustainable tourism ecosystem. Whether you're an aspiring tourism entrepreneur or simply passionate about eco-friendly travel, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration. References: Wild Adventures Melbourne: https://www.wildadventuresmelbourne.com Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation: https://mpkoalas.org.au Peninsula Hot Springs: https://www.peninsulahotsprings.com/ Connect with Nic Cooper and Wild Adventures Melbourne: Website: https://www.wildadventuresmelbourne.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Nic-cooper-wam/ #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

In this special episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias celebrates NAIDOC Week, a time to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Despina reflects on her own journey, marking ten years since the inception of the Institute of Excellence. She shares invaluable lessons learned over the past decade, offering insights to help you craft a successful business plan for the new financial year. From embracing change and cultivating resilience to lifelong learning and community building. Despina provides a one-on-one mentoring session aimed at igniting your excellence in the tourism industry. Tune in to gain practical advice and inspiration to thrive in your tourism business or career. Resources and Links: Get the FREE copy of Institute of Excellence Business Excellence Plan https://bit.ly/3zBzIP6 Connect with Despina Karatzias: Website: Institute of Excellence LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias Instagram: @despinakaratzias Follow us on social media: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias #TourismHub #BeExcellent The show is hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Institute of Excellence. Stay passionate, stay excellent, and keep your fire burning!

In this episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias welcomes Sally, the visionary behind The Cambium, a unique conference and event space on the Mornington Peninsula. Sally shares her inspiring journey from working with big brands like Red Bull in London to creating a sanctuary for growth and change at The Cambium. Discover how Sally's passion for the environment and her background in major events led her to develop a venue that focuses on holistic experiences, team building, and personal growth.Sally discusses the importance of connecting with nature, the intentional design of The Cambium to foster creativity and reduce stress, and the value of offering experiences that do not revolve around alcohol. She also delves into the significance of mentorship, strategic planning, and maintaining excellence in every aspect of business. If you're looking for inspiration to create meaningful experiences and grow both personally and professionally, this episode is a must-listen. References: Cambium: https://www.cambium.com.au Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards: https://www.mpbusinessawards.com.au Red Bull: (https://www.redbull.com) The Health Habit by Dr. Amandeep Imar: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-health-habit-dr-amandeep-imar/book/9780648871801.html Living Culture: https://livingculture.org.au Connect with Sally and The Cambium: Website: https://www.thecambium.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallycambium/ #TourismHub #BeExcellent Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence. Follow us on social media for updates: Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias