This week, we sat down with Katie Briscoe, the CEO of MMGY Global, to discuss her background, the evolution of MMGY Global, and the challenges and joys of being a female leader in the travel industry.
The Importance of Vacation Rentals in the Travel Industry
During the conversation, Katie highlights the significance of vacation rentals in the travel industry. She emphasizes that vacation rentals are an important part of the travel economy, offering unique experiences and longer stays for travelers. Katie also discusses the funding models of destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and the need for a more comprehensive approach that includes vacation rentals in the funding equation.
The Role of Mentorship and Empathy in Leadership
Katie shares her experiences with mentorship and the challenges she faced as a woman in a leadership role. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders. Katie also discusses the need for empathy in leadership and the importance of maintaining personal and professional relationships to sustain energy and joy in the role.
The Unspoken Topics in the Travel Industry
Katie identifies two unspoken topics in the travel industry that need more attention. The first is the funding models of DMOs and the need to align tourism strategy with economic development. The second is the focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in advertising campaigns and the industry as a whole. Katie believes that these topics will become increasingly important as the industry continues to evolve.
The Rise of Responsible Travel
Katie also discusses the rise of responsible travel and its impact on destinations. She highlights the shift in consumer preferences towards experiences rather than material possessions, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Many people have realized the value of meaningful travel experiences and are prioritizing them over material goods. This shift has significant implications for destinations, as they need to adapt their offerings to meet the demand for responsible and sustainable travel experiences. Katie emphasizes the importance of understanding and promoting responsible travel practices to enhance the overall visitor experience and contribute to the long-term success of destinations.
The Power of Personal Experiences
Throughout the conversation, the trio emphasize the power of personal experiences in the travel industry. They discuss how travel has the ability to transform and enrich people's lives, creating lasting memories and connections. Katie shares her own experiences and the impact that travel has had on her perspective and understanding of the world. She encourages listeners to embrace curiosity and engage in meaningful travel experiences, as they have the potential to broaden horizons and foster a deeper appreciation for different cultures and ways of life.
Watch the podcast episode here:
Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations with women in the travel industry!
