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View From Afar | Travel Industry News

View From Afar is the travel industry podcast made by the travel industry, for the travel industry. Hosted by the editors of Afar, the show sits down with the CEOs, tourism experts, hoteliers, and destination leaders shaping how the world moves. These are travel industry interviews with the people actually making the decisions, from national tourism boards to the newest hotel brands, often recorded in the room where it happens, including live from major travel industry events like IPW.

Every episode is a real conversation, not a press release. Afar editors talk with travel changemakers about what the next era of travel will be built on: the rise of sustainable tourism, smarter destination management, the travel innovation reshaping the guest experience, and the travel industry challenges no one wants to say out loud. Expect tourism experts interviews that move from travel marketing strategies and travel consumer insights to local tourism initiatives, destination highlights, and the future of travel and tourism development. Past guests have led the tourism efforts of entire states and cities, run major transit and hospitality brands, and steered destinations through record years and hard pivots alike.

If your work touches travel, think of this as your briefing. As a travel podcast built for professionals, View From Afar delivers the travel industry news and travel industry insights that help destination marketers, hospitality industry leaders, tour operators, and travel professionals stay ahead of travel trends 2026 and beyond. It is travel storytelling with a purpose: honest, curious, and grounded in the real experiences of the people building the business of travel.

Afar has spent more than a decade telling travelers where to go and why it matters. View From Afar turns that same lens on the industry itself, giving you a front-row seat to the ideas, the debates, and the travel experiences defining what comes next. New episodes bring new voices and new destinations to the table.

Follow View From Afar wherever you listen, and join the conversation shaping the future of travel.

Latest Episodes:

Live From IPW: Elliott Ferguson on D.C.'s Record-Breaking Year—and Separating Politics From Place Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

Washington D.C. is proving that America's capital can separate politics from place while breaking tourism records. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Destination DC⁠ president and CEO Elliott Ferguson joins Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how the city welcomed a record-breaking 27.2 million visitors in 2024, generating $2.3 billion in tax revenue while preparing for major events like America 250 and the NFL Draft.

Ferguson, a seasoned tourism leader who's navigated everything from 9/11 to January 6th, explains D.C.'s unique challenge of marketing a destination that's both the seat of government and home to 700,000+ diverse residents. He reveals how the city's "There's Only One DC" campaign showcases its international character—with over 175 embassies and a thriving cultural scene—beyond the traditional monuments and museums experience.

What You'll Learn

Ferguson describes D.C.'s vibe as globally diverse, where residents embrace people from all backgrounds in a city with 175+ embassies.
Prior to leading tourism efforts, Ferguson has been with Destination DC since 2001, becoming CEO in 2009.
How to position D.C. as more than just suits and politics—showcasing neighborhoods, architecture, and local culture.
Where visitors can experience the "real D.C." beyond federal buildings, including festivals, restaurants, and community celebrations.

Key Moments

[08:45] Ferguson jokes about not wearing a suit on stage to counter the stereotype that everyone in D.C. talks politics and wears formal attire.

[12:30] Asked about D.C.'s appeal, Ferguson notes that families might initially choose Disney World, but D.C. visitors are "wowed" by free, interactive museum experiences.

[18:15] A big challenge is separating the 535 members of Congress from the 700,000+ residents who call D.C. home and embrace diversity.

[24:20] Ferguson emphasizes that despite political climate changes, D.C. hasn't "taken our foot off" DEI efforts or run from the acronym.

Resources ⁠

Read the transcript of this episode⁠ .⁠

Learn more about Destination DC⁠ .

Find Destination DC on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠ .

Read Afar's Washington D.C. coverage⁠.

Previous Episode: ⁠Walt Leger of New Orleans & Co on recovering from crises and how his city is "built to host."
Up Next: Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis
Complete Series: ⁠View From Afar⁠

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
⁠Sign up⁠ for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media's podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Brad Dean on Why St. Louis Is Ready for a Tourism Renaissance Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

St. Louis is proving that America's heartland is ready for a renaissance, blending iconic history with entrepreneurial energy. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Explore St. Louis⁠ president and CEO Brad Dean joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how the Gateway City is reimagining itself as a destination for urban exploration while celebrating major milestones like Route 66's centennial and America's 250th anniversary.

Dean, who officially started his role in February 2025, chose St. Louis over offers from New York, Chicago, and San Francisco because of the city's incredible momentum—including major downtown redevelopment, a newly approved entertainment district, and massive investments in the airport and convention center.

The conversation reveals the surprising gap between visitor and local perceptions of St. Louis, with guests consistently ranking the dining, history, art, and culture as extraordinary. Dean also highlights St. Louis's remarkable commitment to accessibility—residents voted to tax themselves so major attractions like the world-class zoo and art and history museums remain free to visitors.

What You'll Learn

Dean describes St. Louis as the "original gathering place" where rivers converged and westward expansion began, now evolving into a playground for urban exploration.
Prior to leading Explore St. Louis, Dean helped transform Myrtle Beach and rebuild Puerto Rico's tourism after Hurricane Maria.
How St. Louis residents voted to tax themselves to make major attractions free, demonstrating the community's commitment to hospitality.
Where visitors can experience authentic St. Louis beyond downtown, including unique neighborhoods with rich history and vibrant culture.

Key Moments [03:15] Dean reveals that St. Louis was the first place he vacationed as a seven-year-old from rural Illinois, planting the travel seed that shaped his career. [08:45] Asked about St. Louis pizza, Dean explains how the thin-crust style originated from local farms and today Imo's makes every pizza downtown near the convention center. [15:30] Dean discusses how the gap between visitor and local perceptions is "as big as I've ever seen," with visitors consistently surprised by the quality of dining and culture. [22:40] The recently reopened old courthouse showcases consequential American history, including Dred and Harriet Scott cases and Virginia Minor's fight for women's voting rights.

Resources ⁠Read the transcript of this episode. ⁠ ⁠Learn more about Explore St. Louis⁠. Find Explore St. Louis on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠. ⁠Read Afar's St. Louis coverage⁠.

Previous Episode: ⁠Elliott Ferguson of Destination DC on separating politics from place⁠.
Up Next: Anne Sayers, Wisconsin's secretary of tourism
Complete Series: ⁠View From Afar⁠

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
⁠Sign up⁠ for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media's podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: New Orleans & Company CEO Walt Leger Reveals What Makes His City "Built to Host" Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

New Orleans is proving its resilience and redefining what it means to be "built to host" major events. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, New Orleans & Company president and CEO Walt Leger joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how the city bounced back from tragedy to deliver an unprecedented run of iconic events—Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, Super Bowl LIX, and Mardi Gras.

Leger, a former Louisiana state legislator turned tourism leader, explains New Orleans' unique "vibe," a place where music emerges from every corner. He reveals how the city's two-mile triangle connecting the French Quarter, convention center, and Superdome creates a campus-like experience with 26,000 hotel rooms, but emphasizes that infrastructure alone doesn't make a destination—it's the people who truly make New Orleans "built to host."

The conversation addresses the New Year's Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street and how the city responded with defiance rather than fear, doubling down on joy in a distinctly American fashion. Leger shares current safety data showing violent crime down 70 percent and explains how the community rallied to successfully host major events just days after the tragedy, while also discussing challenges like balancing 385,000 residents with 19 million annual visitors.

What You’ll Learn

Leger describes the vibe of New Orleans as music everywhere, all the time.
Prior to heading the tourism board, Leger was a lawyer and a state legislator.
How to balance making New Orleans attractive for tourists while still supporting residents and local communities.
Where you can find green space in New Orleans and avoid the French Quarter’s crowds.

Key Moments

[04:02] In a two mile triangle, New Orleans has the French Quarter, the Superdome, and the convention center, plus 26,000 hotel rooms.

[06:26] Asked what is the vibe of New Orleans, Leger says “long before people were talking about work-life balance, we were living it.”

[11:45]: A big challenge right now is short-term rentals, which can cause locals to see visitors in a less positive light.

[16:38]: New Orleans wants to ensure that one single act of terror doesn’t deter people from enjoying Bourbon Street, which remains very safe.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Learn more about New Orleans & Company

Find New Orleans & Company on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Read Afar’s New Orleans coverage

Previous Episode: Caroline Beteta of Visit California on sustainable tourism.
Up Next: President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Also in this IPW series: Hear from Helen Hill, President and CEO of Explore Charleston, about how the city showcases all of its history, good and bad.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Visit Buffalo Niagara CEO Patrick Kaler on the City's Architectural Awakening Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

Buffalo is experiencing a renaissance that's transforming America's perception of this western New York destination. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Visit Buffalo Niagara president and CEO Patrick Kaler joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how grassroots community investment is reshaping the city's tourism landscape.

Kaler highlights Buffalo's architectural treasures, including one of the world's most complete Frank Lloyd Wright restoration projects at the Martin House the former Buffalo State Hospital for the Insane, which has been transformed into a boutique hotel and architecture center called the Richardson Hotel. He also explores the emerging African American Heritage Corridor, featuring revitalized historic sites like the Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum and Michigan Street Baptist Church, a former Underground Railroad stop.

The conversation addresses Buffalo's current challenge—a 20 percent drop in Canadian visitation due to political tensions rather than economic factors. Kaler shares how the destination is pivoting to domestic markets like Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago while maintaining outreach to Canadian travel writers through creative care packages, positioning for recovery when diplomatic relations improve.

What You’ll Learn

Where to find Kaler’s favorite Buffalo wings
That the city is home to one of the largest and most completely restored Frank Lloyd Wright houses in the country.
Buffalo has a rich Black history; sites include the Colored Musicians Club and Michigan Street Baptist Church, once an Underground Railroad stop.

Key Moments

[5:54] Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House, which had been sitting vacant, was brought back to life thanks to grassroots investments and community organizing.

[09:13] Buffalo has been restoring sites central to the city’s rich Black heritage, such as the Colored Musicians Club and Michigan Street Baptist Church, a stop on the Underground Railroad.

[11:50]: Visitation from Canada is down 20 percent, due to political messaging.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode.

Learn more about Visit Buffalo Niagara

Find Visit Buffalo Niagara on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Read Afar’s Buffalo coverage

Previous Episode: Walt Leger of New Orleans & Company on New Orleans’ unbeatable vibe.
Up Next: Elliot Ferguson, Destination DC.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Also in this IPW series: Hear from Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Explore Lauderdale, about how Greater Fort Lauderdale welcomes every single traveler with open arms.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.

Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.

Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.

Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.

Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Caroline Beteta on Building California's Sustainable Tourism Future Jun 21, 2025

Show notes

California's tourism powerhouse is gearing up for its biggest decade yet. In this ⁠IPW 2025⁠ episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Visit California⁠ president and CEO Caroline Beteta sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how nearly three decades of experience has shaped her strategy for promoting the nation's top tourism revenue generator.

Beteta reveals the counterintuitive challenge of mega-events like the ⁠2026 World Cup⁠ and ⁠2028 Olympics⁠—how they can actually deter leisure travelers despite the global spotlight—and shares lessons learned from Paris about maximizing these opportunities. She also discusses California's approach to crisis communication, from putting recent L.A. wildfires and protests into proper context to reassuring international visitors that "everyone is welcome."

Beteta also highlights what's transforming the Golden State—billions in new infrastructure including LAX's $30 billion upgrade, ⁠Disneyland's 70th anniversary⁠ celebrations, and emerging destinations like the new tent resort ⁠The River Electric⁠ in Sonoma—all while maintaining the state's commitment to sustainable tourism through comprehensive stewardship planning.

What You’ll Learn

Though the fires in January 2025 were severe, they impacted only 2 percent of LA County
Domestic tourism is strong in California—80 percent of visitors come from the U.S.—and, like many others, the state has seen a dip in international inbound travel.
New developments are in the works, including a $30 billion expansion at LAX and a hospitality campus in Orange County.
California is ready to welcome visitors before and after the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics

Key Moments

[09:15] Over 80 percent of California's visitors are domestic travelers.

[11:34]: According to Beteta, they have not had any reports of visitors on tourist visas being detained at a California airport.

[13:29]: New hotel openings include Gaylord Pacific Resort on the water in Chula Vista, just outside San Diego, and The River Electric, a glamping resort and swim club in Sonoma.

[15:09] Beteta explains that being green and sustainable is part of California's DNA, and that extends to the hospitality industry.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Learn more about Visit California

Find Visit California on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Read Afar’s recent California coverage

🇺🇸 America 250 Update: California will host several World Cup games in 2026 and LA will host the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Previous Episode: Kristen Reynolds, Choose Chicago.
Up Next: Walt Leger, New Orleans & Company.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Also in this IPW series: Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, talking about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s impressive diversity, welcoming mindset, and beautiful beaches.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Choose Chicago's Kristen Reynolds on Pope Leo, the Obama Center, and the City's Next Chapter Jun 21, 2025

Show notes

Chicago is poised for a global spotlight with the historic appointment of Chicago-born Pope Leo. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Choose Chicago president and CEO Kristen Reynolds sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how her unconventional journey from Arizona tourism to Long Island destination transformation has prepared her to lead the Windy City's bold marketing vision.

Reynolds shares how Chicago is doubling down on its "Never Done, Never Outdone" campaign to celebrate the city's diversity and inclusion values, even while challenging false narratives about urban safety.

Reynolds also reveals what's on the horizon—the Obama Presidential Center opening in 2026, America 250 celebrations highlighting Chicago's role in the nation's evolution, and the city's record-breaking $20 billion tourism impact—as well as her newfound appreciation for Chicago's unmatched culinary scene and James Beard Award winners.

What You’ll Learn

Three Chicago restaurants/bars won James Beard awards this year
The Pope’s appointment will be a tourism boon for the city
The ⁠Obama Presidential Center⁠ is opening in 2026 and will include a garden and athletics complex
One of the biggest tourism challenges is a false narrative about the city’s safety
Chicago’s biggest international source markets
Where Kristen Reynolds takes her friends and family when they visit Chicago

Key Moments

[08:42] Chicago’s biggest tourism challenge is a false narrative about the city’s safety.

[11:00]: Winter in Chicago may be tough, but this is when you’ll find the best deals and fewest tourists

[12:08]: It’s essential that any elected official understands the value of what the tourism industry brings to the community

[13:42] Chicago had 55 million visitors in 2024 and saw over $20 billion in tourism economic impact.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Learn more about Choose Chicago

Find Choose Chicago on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Read Afar’s recent Chicago coverage

📊 By the Numbers: Chicago has 77 neighborhoods and, in 2024, saw more than 55 million visitors.

Previous Episode: Stacy Ritter, Visit Lauderdale.
Up Next: Caroline Beteta, Visit California.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Also in this IPW series: Hear from Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, about how this welcoming city is the birthplace of democracy.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Stacy Ritter Has Made Fort Lauderdale Florida's Most Inclusive Destination—Despite Politics Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

Fort Lauderdale—Florida's LGBTQ+ capital—has proved that staying true to your values can be the best marketing strategy of all. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Visit Lauderdale President and CEO Stacey Ritter sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how her unconventional path from lawyer to politician to tourism leader has shaped her bold approach to destination marketing.

Ritter shares how Fort Lauderdale has doubled down on its "Everyone Under the Sun" campaign to celebrate diversity and inclusion, even amid challenging political climates in Florida—all while successfully differentiating the region from Miami as a diverse, more relaxed, flip flop–friendly destination.

Ritter also reveals what's on the horizon—Fort Lauderdale is hosting IPW 2026 at its newly expanded convention center with an 801-room Omni Fort Lauderdale hotel on the Intracoastal Waterway—as well as her newfound obsession with pickleball and the destination's first Michelin-starred restaurant.

What You’ll Learn

How Greater Fort Lauderdale ensures visitors know that everyone is welcome here
That Fort Lauderdale represents 170 nations and people who speak 148 languages, all united in making visitors feel genuinely welcome and at home
An Omni hotel at Fort Lauderdale’s convention center opens in September 2025
Fort Lauderdale is not a suburb of Miami, despite what a map may show you
That Visit Lauderdale is a tourism agency that leads with its values: being open and inclusive to everyone
Ritter’s insider tips for the best of Fort Lauderdale

Key Moments

[04:25] When Florida's tourism site removed its LQBTQ+ content, Greater Fort Lauderdale—the LGBTQ+ capital of Florida—doubled down, embracing its history.

[07:31] A new facility has opened in Snyder Park with more than 40 pickleball courts, a bar and restaurant, and a lake with a beach. (You’ll find Ritter there.)

[9:44]: Ritter reminders listeners that “failure is an option in life, but not trying is never an option”

[13:06] What makes Ft. Lauderdale so enticing? Warm water, top-rated restaurants you can access by boat, and great shopping.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode.

Learn more about the Visit Lauderdale.

Find Visit Lauderdale on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Read Afar’s Fort Lauderdale coverage.

📊 By the Numbers: Broward County’s 2 million residents come from 170 countries and speak 140 languages. Ten percent of Broward’s residents are directly or indirectly employed in tourism. Fort Lauderdale has 24 miles of beach.

Previous Episode: Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines.
Up Next: Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. Complete Series: View From Afar

Also in this IPW series: Hear from Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, about how this welcoming city is the birthplace of democracy.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: United's Josh Earnest on Newark's Turnaround and the Infrastructure Revolution Aviation Needs Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

The single biggest thing that will improve our air travel system and make it better for everyone involved? Government investment, says Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines.

In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Josh Earnest sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss United's ambitious strategic vision, from massive international route expansion to onboard innovations like Starlink WiFi across their entire fleet.

Earnest candidly addresses the Newark Airport challenges that plagued travelers earlier this year, explaining how government-imposed flight limits have transformed it into the most reliable airport in the New York area with 85 percent on-time performance.

Drawing from his experience as former White House Press Secretary, he also tackles the intersection of travel and politics, discussing how changing perceptions about America affect international tourism while advocating for crucial air traffic control infrastructure investments that could revolutionize the flying experience for everyone.

What You’ll Learn

How United asked the government for help to deal with the Newark challenges
How the pandemic changed the way United designs its route network planning
That United may not have the cheapest tickets, but believes it offers the most value by having good service, reliability, and convenience.
That United flies to about 144 international destinations, 34 of which have no flights from other U.S. carriers.
That United’s 10-20 year plan includes not only offering the best possible customer experience but also one that’s kinder to the environment.

Key Moments

[03:46] Following challenges at Newark, including limited capacity and staffing shortages, United asked for and received more federal regulations for the airport.

[05:37] By far the biggest thing the federal government can do that would have the most impact on air travel is to invest in the infrastructure of air traffic control.

[09:26] 80-85 percent of United’s travelers are people in the U.S. buying tickets to travel internationally, so the airline hasn’t seen a huge impact from the major decrease in inbound international tourism.

[10:43] Earnest would like potential international visitors to try not to judge the country based on what our politicians say or what they may see on social media, but to come see the U.S. for themselves.

[12:44] During the winter 2025 season, United will be increasing its flights from Chicago to warm weather places like Florida by as much as 15-20 percent.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Book a flight with United

Find United on Instagram and Facebook

Afar’s air travel coverage

Previous Episode: Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board.
Up Next: Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live from IPW: Adam Burke on Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Visit Los Angeles Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

Los Angeles is proving that resilience and opportunity go hand in hand. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Bureau President and CEO Adam Burke sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how L.A. is transforming challenges into catalysts for growth.

From navigating the aftermath of January's devastating wildfires and recent protests to preparing for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, Burke shares how the city's incredible diversity—with residents from 140 countries speaking over 220 languages—makes it uniquely positioned as a welcoming global destination.

What You’ll Learn

Though the wildfires were catastrophic, less than 2 percent of the L.A. region was affected.
The U.S. has gone from having a $50 travel trade surplus to a $50 million deficit
L.A. is the first urban destination in the U.S. to join the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
How Los Angeles Tourism helps smaller, diverse-owned businesses have better access to the power of tourism

Key Moments

[04:13] LA. is a true global city; residents come from 140 different countries and speak over 220 different languages.

[08:08] During Dine LA restaurant week, Los Angeles Tourism and Bank of California were able to donate $100,000 to wildfire relief efforts.

[11:12]: One of the most important things a tourism organization can do is be a trusted and reliable source of information.

[12:48]: Over the last 15 years, Brand USA has generated $24 for every $1 it spent promoting tourism across the country.

Featured Topics

L.A. as one of the most diverse and inclusive destinations globally
The 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics
How community support helped LA businesses recover after the January 2025 wildfires
Travel and tourism as a form of diplomacy
Where Burke takes his family and friends when they visit—all without a car.

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Learn more about Discover Los Angeles

Find Discover Los Angeles on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Previous Episode: Bill Hornbuckle on the importance of government-travel industry collaboration
Up Next: Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines.
Complete Series: View From Afar

Stay Connected

Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week.
Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
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This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

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Live From IPW: From Vegas Vision to National Mission, Bill Hornbuckle's High-Stakes Bet on American Tourism Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a casino CEO takes on America's tourism challenges? In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live from the conference floor in Chicago, MGM Resorts CEO and U.S. Travel Association Chair Bill Hornbuckle sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss the state of international inbound travel.

Hornbuckle has watched Vegas transform from a "free food, free rooms, come gamble" destination to a sports and entertainment hub where, for hotels like the Bellagio, 70 percent of its revenue is non-gaming.

Now he's applying those lessons to America's bigger challenge: turning a $50 billion tourism deficit into a surplus while preparing for major events like the World Cup and America's 250th anniversary.

With Chinese visitors down 50 percent, lengthy visa wait times, and travelers facing hours-long immigration lines, Hornbuckle argues that America's fragmented approach to tourism—spread across multiple government departments—is holding the nation back.

His solution mirrors what worked in Vegas: bringing everyone together behind a unified vision.

What You’ll Learn

How spending in Vegas has changed since the 1980s
What major sports events are coming to Las Vegas in 2025, 2026, and beyond.
That funding the FAA is crucial for increasing inbound international tourism
How long it can take for a train line to open without public sector support
That the U.S. tourism sector needs government support to survive

Key Moments

[04:45] In the 1980s, 80 percent of revenue was tied to the casino and 20% to rooms; today 70 percent of revenue at the Bellagio, for example, is not related to the casino.

[09:51] How can the tourism industry work with the government to ensure visas are processed faster and airport lines move more quickly?

[13:45] The Brightline train connecting LA and Las Vegas is $10 billion project 25 years in the making.

[16:52]: The U.S. Travel Association wants visitors to know that, despite the rhetoric people may hear, they’re very welcome.

Featured Topics

The way travel to Vegas has evolved in the past few decades
The U.S. travel industry needs significant government support to continue
The essential need for visitors to feel welcome, starting with faster visa processing
How critical it is to have enough staff at airports across the country

Resources

Read the transcript of this episode

Learn more about the U.S. Travel Association

Find U.S. Travel Association on Instagram and Facebook

Previous Episode: Angela Val on how Philadelphia, the birthplace of democracy, is for everyone.
Up Next: Adam Burke, CEO and President of Los Angeles Tourism.
Complete Series: View From Afar

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Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content.
Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor.
Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights.
Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week.

This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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