Home Based Travel Agent Podcast

315 - Key Elements and Best Practices to Build Your Travel Business

2012-02-10T18:14:00.000-05:00

Podcast Number 315Find more travel business related content at the TRAVEL CONSULTANT ACADEMY.

COHOSTED SEGMENTCris DeSouza from Celebrity Cruise Lines joins the show to talk about best practices and key elements to build your travel business. This show is full of gems you can use and put into practice that will take your business to the next level. The information you hear in this show will build your business whether you specialize in land based travel or cruises. Grab a pencil and a pad of paper because you will want to take notes and create an outline that will have you selling more travel products in 2012.

Travel NewsThe focus in this show is on building your business so we have dispensed with the news items for today.

Visit us on Facebook –Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantzLorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorenerGary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.On TwitterLorene’s Twitter name is lorenerBarry’s Twitter name is kantzbGary's Twitter name is gary222Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Hot Club of Detroit "For StÃ©phane" (mp3)from "It's About That Time"(Mack Avenue Records)
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314 – Learn About Anchorage And Win A Fam Trip

2012-01-15T19:15:00.000-05:00

Podcast Number 314

Find more travel business related content at the TRAVEL CONSULTANT ACADEMY.

COHOSTED SEGMENTJoin the fun and become an Anchorage Wild Expert (AWE) and possibly win a familiarization trip to Anchorage. Jody Overstreet and David Kasser join us in the co hosted segment where we talk about the great destination of Anchorage, Alaska. Jody and David are from the Anchorage Convention and Visitors' Bureau. Jody and David explain the AWE certification program that, when completed, will allow you access to the AWE Alumni Facebook page. You can win Fam trips by participating in contests on the AWE Facebook page and continue your learning about Anchorage. A new Anchorage.net website will go online next week where travel trade professionals will find easy access to information about the AWE training and other great content for the travel professional. Join us by listening to the show and learn more about the exciting opportunities offered by the Anchorage Convention and Visitors' Bureau.The best way to contact David or Jody is by email at; joverstreet@anchorage.net or dkasser@anchorage.net.

Travel News

The Los Angeles Times Travel Show coming in late January

Near term travel trends

Disney cancels Mexico cruises

AURAH "I Decree Peace" (mp3)from "Etherea Borealis"(Very Music, Inc.)
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313 - Are You Using Social Media as Part of Your Marketing Strategy?

2011-12-30T20:37:00.002-05:00

Podcast Number 313

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COHOSTED SEGMENTAre you using social media sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter to develop presence and credibility for your travel business? If not, you should be. Catherine Heeg of Customized Management Solutions joins Barry and Lorene to discuss the potential of social media in getting your message out to potential clients. Don't miss this show, the last of 2011, to learn about the potential of connecting with people who may become clients. Contact Catherine at (403) 726-0171 or through her website at www.cmsspeaking.com.

Travel NewsAre travel agents making a comeback - Yes!Here's an opportunity to learn more about the niche market of medical and wellness travel A prediction that travel spending is increasing in 2012

AURAH "Part 2" (mp3)from "Judith Martin"(Very Music, Inc.)
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312 - How You Can Become Your Own Custom Tour Company

2011-12-18T17:15:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 312 Try GoToMeeting free for 30 Days!

COHOSTED SEGMENTHave you ever considered tapping into the affinity groups with customized tours for such groups as the Red Hat Ladies, your local church groups or the local garden club? Or, how about creating a special tour for your honeymoon clients? Chris Babb joins the show today to talk about his company, The Group Tour Company. Chris' company can help you create those special tours with your own branding using a wish book of sites, attractions and hotels for locations along the East Coast. Your clients can experience the attractions of such places as New York City, Washington D.C., New England, Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia. Listen to the show and learn how you can expand your market or enhance your niche.You can contact Chris at 800-424-8895. Or, drop him an email at chris@grouuptourcompany.com. And, you can visit the website at www.grouptourcompany.com to learn more.

Travel NewsHow can travel suppliers leverage virtual assistants to help travel agents?Two travel agents receive the "top travel agent" award for agents under 30 years of age. The distinction is awarded by Travel Agent Magazine.What is airline ancillary revenue and what does that mean to the travel agent?

Duke Ellington "Jingle Bells (Rise Ashen's Reindeer Dub)" (mp3)from "Holiday Lounge - The Christmas Remixes"(Christmas Chill)
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311 - What Are 10 Things You Need To Become A Successful Travel Agent?

2011-12-04T18:11:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 311 Try GoToMeeting free for 30 Days!

COHOSTED SEGMENTHere are ten things an independent travel consultant should know to build a successful business. Kelly Bergin, the Vice President for Business Development at Oasis Agents, details the ten things on today's show. Kelly is a long time travel professional and Oasis Agents has been in business twenty-five years.Also on today's show, Kelly announced an new program at Oasis Agents for people who want to start a career as a travel consultant. The new program begins in January of 2012. You can learn more by listening to the show or clicking on the links above, or contact Kelly by email at Kelly@oasisagents.com or by telephone at (800) 613-8380 extension 120. Oasis Agents can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/oasisagentcom.

Travel NewsJon Jones, one of our listeners responded to our questions posed on Show 310, "how does Siri on the new iPhone respond when asked to find a travel agent?" Jon produced a nice video showing Siri's response. This is a good video to watch if you've never seen Siri in action, or maybe you don't know who Siri is and want to find out. Check out Jon's production at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKsixjcCXdI&feature=youtu.be

Spinman "Sambalanana" (mp3)from "Quickstar Productions Presents: Electric Underground, Vol. 10"(Distrophonix)
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310 - Australia is Just a Click Away With AATKings

2011-11-13T20:59:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 310 Try GoToMeeting free for 30 Days!

COHOSTED SEGMENTAustralia and New Zeeland are great destinations to add to your line up of products you offer to clients. Jeff Adam from AAT Kings tours join Barry and Lorene on today's show. Jeff talks about the many products for touring Australia and New Zeeland offered by AAT Kings. Many of the tours come in modules so you can build your client a uniquely tailored tour experience that fits their desires and budget.AAT Kings is offering a live webinar this Friday, November 18, 2011, where you can learn about the many product offerings and an opportunity to win cash cards and a trip for two to Australia. Sign up by going to http://www.aatkings.com/us/webinars.php. The webinar will be recorded if you can't attend the live version on November 18th.Don't miss AAT Kings booth if you are attending the Luxury Travel Expo in Las Vegas happening from December 6 through 10, 2011. Jeff will be there to entertain you with a variety of animals from the Land Down Under.

Travel News
Marketing to the millennial generation
Air sales by travel agents up six percent
Booking travel using voice commands
Airliners flying in formation

David Hudson "Talkative Didge" (mp3)from "Australian Savannah"(Indigenous Australia PTY Ltd.)
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309 - NACTA Annual Conference

2011-11-06T16:56:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 309
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COHOSTED SEGMENTFamiliarization (fam) trips expand your knowledge of destinations. Many fam trips offer classes to go along with the destination experience. Lorene recently attended NACTA's Annual Conference at Sea. MSC Cruise Lines hosted the event taking travel agents on a fall color tour of the Northeastern seaboard. Along the way Lorene attended courses and presentations offered by travel suppliers and vendors. One exciting session Lorene talks about on this show was a two hour presentation by Catherine Hegg. Catherine discussed the importance of blogging strategies to incorporate into your social media marketing plan. Listen in and learn about the great opportunities you can experience on fam trips.

Travel NewsLos Angeles Times Travel Show Travel spending up 26%The purchase of travel and tourism products by foreign visitors is up by 11% compared to last year

Pink Martini "Hang on Little Tomato" (mp3)from "A Retrospective"(Heinz Records)
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308 - Travel Agents Learn How to Become Full Service by Selling Airline Tickets

2011-10-16T14:32:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 308

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

Bobbi Hamida joins us for part two of his interview. Bobbi is the Strategic Air Director for the host agency Nexion. In this segment we discuss how travel agents can become full service agents without purchasing and learning a Global Distribution System (GDS). Why book a cruise for your clients and then send them to the internet to find flights to their embarkation point. That's a recipe for giving away business. Nexion has developed a point and click interface that allows you to book air for your clients and collect a commission. You can learn more about this exciting service by listening to the show.

Travel News

National Cruise Vacation Week offers travel agents the opportunity to give their clients exceptional value for a cruise vacation.

Disney World turns 40

The best all inclusive vacation values

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Christian McBride Big Band
"Brother Mister" (mp3)
from "The Good Feeling"
(Mack Avenue Records)
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307 - The Travel Business Where Change is Constant and Education is Imperative

2011-10-08T20:42:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 307 Try GoToMeeting free for 30 Days!

COHOSTED SEGMENTThe travel business is in a constant state of change and that is why travel agent training is so important. Bobbi Hamadi from the host agency Nexion joins our show to talk about travel agent training. Nexion University is launching next week and is a remarkable product that will bring your training to one central location. We also delve into the process of becoming a travel agent and how Nexion's "Power Up" program has you selling travel in short order.

Travel NewsA story about how Steve Jobs inspired this couple to achieve business and travel independence Princess Cruise Lines awarded for its blog, "50 Essential Experiences: The Travel Bucket List."Hawaii hotels are experiencing a boost in occupancy rates and price.

Tess Henley "Easy To Love" (mp3)from "Easy To Love - Deluxe Edition"(Global Journey)
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306 - the Royal Kona Resort, A Great Value for Your Clients

2011-09-25T19:20:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 306

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COHOSTED SEGMENTJay Rubenstein of the Royal Kona Resort joins the show and tells us about the great amenities of the resort and the fantastic value offered to your clients. The Royal Kona is a privately owned resort on the Big Island of Hawaii and offers a taste of old Hawaii with modern facilities and unparalleled customer service. Jay describes the resort, amenities, food and the specials offered to your clients at the resort. We started this segment with Lorene but here Mifi connection failed. Lorene visited the Royal Kona Resort on her recent NACTA fam trip and was very impressed by the facility. Unfortunately she was not able to share her enthusiasm about the resort when Jay was on the show. So, we brought Lorene back for another segment where she relates her impressions and experiences with the resort.You can contact Jay at jayr@hawaiianhotels.com or give him a call at (808) 930-3249. Or you can visit their travel agent website at www.hhrtravelagents.net. Jay will take care of your clients and you when you book at the Royal Kona Resort. I know you will get a sense of the great customer service he provides when you listen to the interview.

Travel NewsWe did not have a travel news segment in today's show. We did this in the interest of time because our goal is to keep the show within a forty minute time frame. We substituted Lorene's impressions of the Royal Kona Resort for the news segment.

Gordon James "One Nation Under a Groove" (mp3)from "In Joy"(DIGITAL MARKETING GROUP, LLC)
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305 - Learn About Exciting Disney Products for Your Travel Business

2011-09-11T21:14:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 305 Try GoToMeeting free for 30 Days!

COHOSTED SEGMENTGary Ebels produces a Disney segment for today's show. Gary describes Disney's new and improved travel agent website. Gary talks about the workflow of the Disney Travel Agent site and talks about the many products you can access there. A little known product is Disney Adventures which is a tour product with tours in Asia, Europe, South America, the Pacific and the United States. Another product is the new Disney resort in Hawaii, the Alani. Gary encourages travel agents to become familiar with these many offerings because they broaden the offering for your clients and help you increase your income. Listen to the show and learn more.

Travel NewsAzamara Cruise Lines is offering travel agents special incentives Skip Fortier honored as a top travel agent Special deep discounted rates offered to travel agents at Costa Rica Marriott Hotels

Orrin Evans "Dita" (mp3)from "Freedom"(Posi-Tone Records)
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304 - Travel Agent Support From OSSN

2011-09-04T20:31:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 304

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

In today's show we talk about the Outside Sales Support Network (OSSN). Gary Fee the president of OSSN joins Lorene and Barry to discuss the many benefits OSSN offers travel agent. The goal of OSSN is to ensure the success of your travel business. OSSN offers education related programs, familiarization trips, online networking and 80 chapters throughout the country where you will have face-to-face contact with your peers. Lorene and I hope you take the opportunity to listen to the show and learn what OSSN offers you.

Travel News

Inspiration from the world's oldest travel agent

Royal Caribbean offers a cruise and a Universal theme park package

Disney opens a Hawaii luxury resort

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Yellowjackets
"Magnolia" (mp3)
from "Timeline"
(Mack Avenue Records)

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303 - Are You Starting or Growing Your Travel Business? This Show is for You!

2011-08-28T18:52:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 303

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

On today's show our guest is Anita Pagliasso. Anita is the author of two books, "From Home Based to Power House," and her recent book, "How I Made a Small Fortune as a Home Based Travel Agent." Anita has a companion CD full of documents to help you grow your business, prevent mistakes and help clients. During our show Anita describes her books and shares her knowledge of the travel business. You will learn a couple of great tips during the course of the show that you will want to immediately incorporate in your travel business.

You can find Anita's books and CD at her website, www.redticketproductions.com. You don't want to miss out on these excellent resources for your business and they are reasonably priced. Listen to the show and find out more!

Travel News

President Obama's comments about obsolet travel agents provide a teaching moment for the profession

Answers to questions about hurricanes and travel insurance

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Tami Tappan Damiano

"Hit Me With A Hot Note" (mp3)

from "Hot Notes"

(LML Music)

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302 - A Down to Earth Tour of Hawaii

2011-08-21T18:58:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 302

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

In today's show we talk about very untypical tours of Hawaii. Earth Bound Tourswill give your clients a glimpse of the Hawaiian agricultural and culinary community. The tours are a learning experience that take

clients to interesting places like a sustainable mushroom farm, lavender farms, abalone farms and much more. Your clients engage in true learning experiences from the people who run the farms. The tours end with a meal that is a culinary experience linked to the farms. Jim Reddekopp, the founder of Earth Bound Tours, encourages travel agents and tour operators to contact him to arrange an unforgettable experience for your clients.

Jim and his family own the Hawaiian Vanilla Company that is the family's vanilla farm. The Hawaiian Vanilla Company has a great gift shop for your clients to browse through when they tour the vanilla farm. If you would like to get a flavor for the gift shop without going to Hawaii, the shop is on line and accessed at www.hawaiianvanilla.com. You will find culinary delights and recipes at the on line gift shop.

Join us on the show and learn more about Earth Bound Tours and the Hawaiian Vanilla Company.

Travel News

Today in the travel news segment I depart from hard news and talk about a Google service that measures the public's interest in travel. The service is Google's Domestic Trends. There are several trends that are tracked including travel, luxury goods, air travel, mortgages, jobs and many others. Within the travel trends graph, Google tracks queries related to such terms as Las Vegas, hotels, airlines, car rental, flights and other travel related terms. The tracking is graphed over time so you can see patterns of when people are interested in travel. With this service you can overlay other trends on the travel trend graph and compare interest in travel to the rise and fall of the S&P 500, other major indexes or individual stocks.

One interesting trend I noted was that interest in travel drops significantly from October through December. This drop has occurred every year for the past five years. On the other hand, the searches for travel significantly increase beginning in May and continues through July. My guess is that people are traveling in the last half of the year and looking to book their vacations in May, June, July and August. This Google service is an interesting device that may help you time your advertising campaign to peak times of the year or to increase your advertising efforts based on other factors affecting travel.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Kites With Lights
"The Weight Of Your Heart" (mp3)
from "The Weight Of Your Heart"
(24 Hour Service Station)

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301 - Travel Agent Training, Certification, Continuing Ed, Speakers All in One Spot!

2011-08-08T11:37:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 301

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

In today's show we are pleased to have Jim Cloonan and Anita Pagliasso from the Travel Show Marketing Group. Anita and Jim talk about two must attend travel shows. The first show is coming up October 17 - 19 in Boston. The second show is coming up in Las Vegas during May 14 -16 at the Venetian Resort and Casino.

Both shows feature industry leaders speaking or in panel discussions where you can learn the travel business from the best. In addition you can earn certifications and continuing education right at the show. Plus there is nothing more valuable than networking with your peers and interacting with vendors on the show floor. Both shows are must attend events for the serious travel professional.

Take a few minutes and listen in as the show's organizers talk about these important events.

Travel News

A guide to the travel agent's changing job description

If you are current, laid off or retired teach you can win a free travel agency franchise from CruiseOne.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

The Headhunters
"Paging Mr. Wesley" (mp3)
from "Platinum"
(Owl Studios)

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300 - Show Three Hundred Has a Real Surprise Inside

2011-07-31T11:45:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 300

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

This show is a celebration of 300 shows of the Home Based Travel Agent Show. This is a milestone and anyone who has ever produced a podcast understands the amount of work involved in producing a show. Lorene, Gary and I thank all of our listeners. We consider you family. We share a common passion that is travel. We particularly thank those early listeners who have been with us from the beginning. You are very special! Now, tune in to Show 300 and hear the surprise inside.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Neal Berntsen
"Capriccio II" (mp3)
from "Trumpet Voices"
(Four Winds Entertainment, Inc.)

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299 - NACTA Travel Agent Benefits and Fam Trips

2011-07-24T19:50:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 299

COHOSTED SEGMENT

The National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA) has a lot to offer travel agents. Mary Clegg, Vice President of NACTA talks about the many benefits available to travel agents. NACTA's goal is to help travel agents grow their careers in the travel business. This goal is accomplished in several ways including popular familiarization trips (Fam trips) that have strong educational components. Mary describes the Master Mind program, the Digest and the texting programs all designed to educate the travel agent or connect agents with other agents. You don't want to miss this show if you are serious about your career as a travel agent.

TRAVEL NEWS

New York to Tokyo in 45 minutes - someday but for now take an excursion into outer space

Online travel agencies want to keep consumers in the dark about their fees

Are you prepared to avise your clients about traveling in hurricane season?

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Gerald Wilson
"Cubs, Bears, Bulls, And White Sox" (mp3)
from "Legacy"
(Mack Avenue Records)

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298 - On to Kauai

2011-07-17T15:44:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 298

COHOSTED SEGMENT

This week we move to Kauai with Maile Horner. Maile is the sales and marketing director of the Kauai Visitor's Bureau. Maile explains that Kauai is the garden isle because only 10% of the island is developed. If you're looking for beach, Kauai has more beach per coastline than any other Hawaiian Island. Travel agents have the opportunity to become Kauai Master Specialist. Master Specialist candidates spend five days on the island with Maile learning about the island and the culture.

TRAVEL NEWS

Biggest Loser Resorts expanding across the U.S.

The Disney Dream Cruise Ship is Sailing at 150% occupancy

Chris Russo from ASTA was on Lifetime Televisions, "The Balancing Act" explaining how a professional travel agent can save consumers time and money. Chris answers some of the common objections travel agents hear from potential clients.

ASTA Press Release Link:

http://www.asta.org/News/PRDetail.cfm?itemnumber=7908

Lifetime Television Video Segment Link:

http://www.thebalancingact.com/story/?id=3033

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Chicago Jazz Project
"Cappucino" (mp3)
from "Sunday Morning Coffee - A Tribute to Starbucks"
(BuddhaWax)

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297 - Learning About Maui

2011-07-10T19:05:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 297

COHOSTED SEGMENT

Chris Kai' aokamalie from the Maui Visitors' Bureau talks with Lorene and Barry about the benefits of selling Maui. Chris views travel agents as Maui's extended sales force team. Chris talks about how the Maui Visitors' Bureau is available to you to help you design special itineraries for your clients traveling to Maui. We discuss the Maui Master Specialist Program where travel agents are invited to Maui to learn the culture, events, accommodations and special features of this unique land. You can contact Chris at chris@mauivb.com.

TRAVEL NEWS

ASTA promoting agents with a honeymoon expertise

Apple Vacations now offering travel agents a 5% commission on the air portion of their vacations

Expedia launching the Travel Agent Access Program allowing travel agents to book and receive commissions through Expedia.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

John Ellis & Double-Wide
"Okra & Tomatoes" (mp3)
from "Puppet Mischief"
(ObliqSound)

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296 - All About Fam Trips for the Travel Agent

2011-06-18T13:35:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 296

COHOSTED SEGMENT

This week's co hosted segment focuses on familiarization trips (fam trips). Travel agents have opportunities to visit hotels, resorts and cruise ships. Most fam trips are paid for, or subsidized by the resort, hotel or cruise line. The goal of the familiarization trip is to have the travel agent learn about the property and become more effective at selling the property. Gary Ebels, Lorene Romero and Barry talk about their experiences with familiarization trips.

TRAVEL NEWS

Spirit Airlines attracting business with pole dancers

Strange jobs exist out there in the travel business

The airliner of the future may let you play a round of golf at 35,000 feet

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Gretchen Parlato
"Circling" (mp3)
from "The Lost and Found"
(ObliqSound)

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295 - Adventures in Alaska

2011-06-12T20:07:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 295

COHOSTED SEGMENT

Mico Godinez returns to the show to talk about his adventures in Alaska. Mico has spent five years in Alaska exploring the waterways, mountains and wilderness. Mico joins us to talk about his adventures and fascination with the beauty of Alaska. Join us to learn more about this great state.

TRAVEL NEWS

A new Starwood Hotel is opening in China every other week

Princess stories on Facebook

IATA describes the future in airline passenger security screening

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Kristin Berardi Meets The Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra
"Mr Jackson" (mp3)
from "Kristin Berardi Meets The Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra"
(Jazzhead)

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294 - The Big Island

2011-06-05T16:53:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 293

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

There are many destinations that have beautiful beaches and gorgeous scenery but Waynette Kwon, of the Big Island Visitors' Bureau explains that Hawaii has a unique culture. The unique culture adds a remarkable component to the beautiful beaches and gorgeous scenery of Hawaii. Travel agents selling the Hawaiian destination should immerse themselves in the culture because it is a major selling point. In this show Waynette talks about the Hawaiian culture and beauty, plus she tell us about an upcoming fam trip offered by NACTA and the Big Island Visitors' Bureau. This fam trip will immerse you in the Hawaiian culture and prepare you with excitement to share with your clients. Space is limited for this fam so you will have to act quickly. You can contact Waynette at wkwon@hvcb.org.

TRAVEL NEWS

Will a smart phone become your wallet?

Grand Rapids LipDub video goes viral

Travel Insurance Review is offering a mini course on travel insurance

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Buddy Merrill
"Yacka Hula Nicky Dula" (mp3)
from "Buddy Merrill & His Hawaiian Guitars"
(Accent Records)

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293 - Celebrity Goes All Out for Travel Agents

2011-05-29T20:20:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 293

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COHOSTED SEGMENT

The fact that Celebrity Cruise Lines goes all out for travel agent is supported by the fact that 90% of their business is booked through their travel agent channel. Cris DeSouza from Celebrity joins Barry and Lorene to talk about exciting developments at Celebrity including two new ships coming on line in 2011 and 2012. The Silhouette (2011) and the Reflection (2012) described as floating works of art will add many enticements for your clients. Listen and learn more about what's to come at Celebrity Cruise Lines. In addition the Five Star Academy travel agent training for the Celebrity line is offered at cruisingpower.com.

Contact Cris DeSouza at cdesouza@rccl.com for more information and a referral to an account representative in your area.

TRAVEL NEWS

Storing all those gadget cords made easy

An iPhone app for room service

Siesta Beach is the top beach for 2011

Orlando tops 50 million visitors in one year

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

US Air Force Band of the Golden West
"National Emblem" (mp3)
from "War & Remembrance"
(Altissimo!)

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292 - Azamara Club Cruises Offers Destination Immersion

2011-05-22T20:20:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 292

Try GoToMeeting Free for Thirty Days

COHOSTED SEGMENT

Edie Bornstein, Azamara's Vice President of Sales and Marketing is on board to talk about the great opportunities Azamara Club Cruises offer travel agents. Learn about the value proposition this luxury cruise line offers your clients.

You can contact Edie at ebornstein@azamaraclubcruises.com.

TRAVEL NEWS

Sabre simplifies the booking process for travel agents.

A new South American Cruise is offered by Azamara

Delta is revamping services and add on fees

Japan is again promoting tourism

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

The Funky Fritters
"Right Place, Wrong Time" (mp3)
from "Deep Fried Live"
(Distrophonix)

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291 - Starwood Hotels and Starwood Pro for the Travel Agents

2011-05-15T18:33:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 291

Try GoToMeeting Free for Thirty Days

COHOSTED SEGMENT

Chris Austin from Starwood Hotels joins today's show. Chris is Starwoods Vice President for Global Retail Leisure and Luxury Sales. Starwood Hotels is one of the largest hotel companies in the world and they value their relationship with travel professionals. Chris explains the Starwood Pro program for travel agent training. Starwood's nine brands of hotels offer the travel professional many opportunities to provide a tailored experience for their clients. The Starwood Pro training will help you to increase your sales and client satisfaction. The training offers rewards and incentives to travel agents who complete the training modules. Plug in your ear buds and learn more!

TRAVEL NEWS

Starwood opening a Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Punta Cana

Traveling in Florida with your furry best friend

Consumer Reports best and worst airlines

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Yellowjackets
"Magnolia" (mp3)
from "Timeline"
(Mack Avenue Records)

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290 - NACTA's Technology Training and Tools for the Travel Agent

2011-05-08T19:16:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 290

Try GoToMeeting Free for Thirty Days

COHOSTED SEGMENT

Penney Rudicil, the National Association of Career Travel Agents technology guru, joins Lorene and Barry in the co-hosted segment. Penney talks about the upcoming Tech Fest hosted by NACTA in Deerfield, Illinois. NACTA is planning other Tech Fests for travel agents on the west coast. There will be other opportunities if you miss the Tech Fest in Illinois.

Penney also talks about features of the NACTA website including the resume builder. The resume builder automates the process of creating your travel agent resume that you can give to clients or include in your literature. Plus there's more great information in this show you don't want to miss.

TRAVEL NEWS

Travel agents now have more opportunity in a fast growing niche - outdoor travel

Expect higher costs this summer for travel

Was an iPhone App designed for adventure travelers used by Navy Seals in their raid on Osama Bin Laden's compound?

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Robin Rogers, Robin Rogers
"I Know I Done Wrong" (mp3)
from "Back In The Fire"
(Blind Pig Records)

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289 - Travel Agent Friendly Fort Lauderdale

2011-04-30T19:17:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 289

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BUSINESS SEGMENT

CO HOSTED SEGMENT
Fort Lauderdale has always been travel agent friendly says Josh Winston, Associate Director of Sales for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors' Bureau. Josh joins the show to talk about what Fort Lauderdale has to offer your clients. Fort Lauderdale has many attractions for pre or post cruise stays. For more information listen to the show or check out the website at www.sunny.org/travel-trade.

TRAVEL NEWS

New Department of Transportation Rules and how they affect the traveler

China will grow to the second largest travel and tourism market in two years

Celebrity to offer cruises in Asia

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Vanessa Raine
"Moongazing" (mp3)
from "Moongazing"
(GoSet Music)

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288 - A Long Time Participant in the Travel Industry Shares Her Wisdom and Experiences

2011-04-24T19:52:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 288

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BUSINESS SEGMENT

We put the business segment on hold for this week. The co-hosted segment is full of business tips and advice for the travel agent.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Kathleen Kavanagh of the Globus Family of Brands talks about her many experiences as a travel professional. Kathleen shares her wisdom and advice as she prepares for her retirement. This is a show you don't want to miss.

Kathleen will be at the Home Based Travel Agent Forum in Las Vegas taking place on May 2nd through May 4th, 2011, at the Venetian Hotel and Resort. Stop by and see Kathleen at booth 610.

TRAVEL NEWS

Conde Nast traveler hot list includes eight Starwood Hotels

Travel Weekly reports that Scott Koepf has released a new training video

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Yellowjackets
"Magnolia" (mp3)
from "Timeline"
(Mack Avenue Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

287 - Disney Cruises and Disney Education for the Travel Agent

2011-04-17T18:04:00.003-04:00

Podcast Number 287

Try GoToMeeting Free for Thirty Days

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Don't fight the internet as competition, use it in your favor. Do your research and learn your strengths in your market niche.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Gary Ebels talks about Disney Cruises and their expansion to the west coast. Gary also talks about Disney's excellent travel agent training. Join Gary, Lorene and Barry in the co-hosted segment to learn more about these exciting Disney products.

Travel Agent information for the Disney Cruise Line mentioned in this show can be found at Disney Travel Agents http://www.disneytravelagents.com/ (you must have a IATAN number and account) > My Disney Tools (on top navigation bar) > Disney Learning Connection > Access The Disney Learning Connection > Disney Cruise Line - Sailing To Success

Disney Resources - Passporter.com Award winning guidebooks, e-books, articles and forums.

TRAVEL NEWS

Airlines may have to pay for your lost bags

Amadeus helps travel agents into the world of social media

Norwegian Cruise Lines names Special Needs Group as its exclusive supplier

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Candye Kane
"Superhero" (mp3)
from "Superhero"
(DELTA GROOVE PRODUCTIONS)

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286 - The World of Coffee and What SEO Means for Your Travel Business

2011-04-10T17:51:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 286

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Search engine optimization (SEO) and what it means for your travel agent business. Check out this article in PC World if you want some quick tips in writing on how to optimize your website. The article is titled, "Five Tips to Improve Ranking and Increase Traffic."

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Today's topic takes us off the beaten path into the world of coffee. Mike Crimmins the author of the blog, "Daily Shot of Coffee" joins the show to talk about the world's most popular beverage. We not only talk about coffee, we throw out a few tips on creating a successful blog. You can't go wrong with this show if you are interested in starting a blog and drinking a cup of coffee.

TRAVEL NEWS

Google receives the green light to finish their acquisition of ITA Software.

Angels for Travelers

Unmanned aircraft landing in a city near you

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Kathy Sanborn
"Secret Paradise" (mp3)
from "Blues For Breakfast"
(Pacific Coast Jazz)

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285 - Promote Yourself as a Destination Expert on Hearplanet

2011-03-27T20:36:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 285

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Steven Echtman joins the show to talk about Hearplanet. Hearplanet is a personal tour guide in your pocket. Actually it's a sophisticated app for your iPhone or Android powered smart phone. Geolocation along with powerful search features will lead you on a discovery of what's around you, or what's interesting at a destination your traveling to. There are currently over 500,000 audio files for locations around the world.

The benefit for the travel agent is that you can create audio files for locations you're familiar with and add them to Hearplanet. A listener of your audio file can contact you directly from within the app. You become a destination expert on Hearplanet and listeners can contact you to book their next trip.

Steven Echtman is offering listeners to the Home Based Travel Agent Show a coupon code to obtain the premium version of the app for free. This offer is available to the first three listeners who sign up for an account on the website and create a listing. Send an email to contact@hearplanet.com when you create a listing and let Steve know that you are a listener of this show and you have created a listing. A listing may be an event as well as a destination.

TRAVEL NEWS

Waterproof all purpose case for the iPhone

Tourism in Japan takes a hit

Visa spending data shows an increase in spending in Mexico

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Kelley Hunt
"Gravity Loves You" (mp3)
from "Gravity Loves You"
(88 Records)

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284 - Don't Overlook Your Special Needs Clients Whether at Sea or on Land!

2011-03-20T19:25:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 284

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Increase you sales by finding opportunities to partner with other businesses in your area.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

The Special Needs Group, also know as Special Needs At Sea, offers you the opportunity to expand your business to those who are challenged with a disability. Andrew Garnett explains how his company can have a wheel chair, a scooter, an oxygen tank or other special needs device ready and waiting for your client on the cruise ship or at their destination hotel. Help your clients enjoy the freedom of travel by listening to this show!

TRAVEL NEWS

Airfares are up by 13% in the U.S.

iPads replacing paper maps in the cockpits of major airlines

Top twenty things a travel agent should do right now!

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Ewan Dobson
"Time 2" (mp3)
from "Ewan Dobson II"
(Candy Rat Records)

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283 - NACTA The Travel Agent's Water Cooler, Where You Go For Support and Education

2011-03-13T17:57:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 283

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Learn how to become a well known travel expert in your hometown.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Bob Duglin, the Director of Industry Relations for the National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA), joins Lorene and Barry in this week's co-hosted segment. Bob talks about the many services NACTA offers the independent travel agent. NACTA offers many educational opportunities for travel agents including fam trips and seminars at sea. If you are not a member of NACTA you can take advantage of a special discount offered by Bob for the listeners of our show. When you sign up for your NACTA membership enter the key word "sponsor" for a $50 discount on a year's membership.

TRAVEL NEWS

Geo Tour Guides you to the hot spots and interesting locations wherever you are.

Traveling with your pet is now easier!

The nation's second happiest/healthiest city - Holland, Michigan

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Jay Gaunt
"Catnip" (mp3)
from "Harmonicopia"
(JBG Music, LLC)

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282 - Explore the Vallarta Botanical Gardens With Lorene in Puerto Vallarta

2011-03-06T21:20:00.000-05:00

Podcast Number 282

BUSINESS SEGMENT

What makes a great travel agent? It's more than talking and convincing. It's how you make your clients feel!

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

When Lorene traveled to Puerto Vallarta she took the opportunity to record a segment of the show on location. This week's cohosted segment is focused on a destination within a destination. Twelve miles south of Puerto Vallarta is the magical paradise of Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Lorene interviews Bob Price, the founder of the Gardens. If your clients are traveling to Puerto Vallarta you will do them a great service by encouraging a visit to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Listen in and learn more!

TRAVEL NEWS
Georgia House of Representatives strongly support a cruise ship port in Savannah

Hawaii sees a strong surge in hotel occupancy rates

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Maria Gadu'
"Dona Cila" (mp3)
from "Maria GadÃº"
(Som Livre)

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281 - A Great Destination Resource and QR Codes for Your Business

2011-02-26T22:49:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 281

BUSINESS SEGMENT

What are QR codes and what do they mean for your business? These codes are popping up everywhere. You will find them on business cards, on stickers placed about anywhere, on products or anything else you can imagine. The big deal is when the QR code is scanned with a smart phone, your contact information, or your event information or your website appears in your smart phone browser.

My QR code with contact information is in the image above. Scan this code with your smart phone's camera and my contact information will appear. Once the contact information appears on your phone you can add the information to the address book in your phone. You can create your own QR code at http://zxing.appspot.com/generator/.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

"The Amateur Traveler Podcast" is a resource for you and your clients where you can learn about destinations. There's hardly a destination on earth that hasn't been the subject of "The Amateur Traveler Podcast". Chris Christensen, the host of the show, joins Lorene and Barry in the co-hosted segment to talk about "The Amateur Traveler" and the many destinations covered by the show. Chris also hosts the shows "This Week in Travel" and "The Bible Study Podcast." Join us to learn more about Chris Christensen and The Amateur Traveler podcast.

TRAVEL NEWS

Top travel insurers for 2010

The TSA Comments on procedures for CPAP machines

Forty-five new airports for China in the next five years

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Cyndi Harvell, Cyndi Harvell, John Howland, MIke Steves, Jim Greer, Andrew Gibson, Mike Stevens

"Northbound" (mp3)

from "From the Echo"

(Ninth Street Opus)

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280 - Avoya Travel Leads to Increasing Your Business

2011-02-19T21:46:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 280

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Accept credit cards anywhere and at anytime with these new smart phone apps. Intuit, the company that owns Quickbooks is offering a free app and reader device for your smart phone to allow you to accept credit cards. Imagine closing your sale for a cruise and taking the deposit by credit card before you leave the table.

Intuit's credit card app is found at gopayment.com. A similar product is offered by Square at squareup.com.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Scott Koepf, Vice President of Sales at Avoya Travel joins Lorene and Barry on the co-hosted segment of the show. Avoya Travel is a host agency with a strong internet presence. Scott explains that more than sixty percent of travelers use the internet to research their vacation plans. Avoya Travel has a strong internet presence to capture this market and provide leads to their agents. Learn more by listening to the show!

TRAVEL NEWS

Star Wars weekends at Disney World Resorts.

Independent travel agent business increased in 2010!

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Amy London
"There's a Boat That's Leavin' Soon" (mp3)
from "When I Look in Your Eyes"
(Motema Music)

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279 - Putting Together a Theme Cruise and Helping Your Clients Rave About You

2011-02-12T21:47:00.000-05:00

Podcast Number 279

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Testimonials are great sales tools everyone should employ to drive business. Don't leave your client scratching their head about what to write when you ask them for a testimonial. Bust through a client's writer's block by giving them a template to prompt them to write a winning testimonial for you. Barry describes this template approach in the business segment of the show.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Lorene describes her experience with setting up a theme cruise. Lorene is arranging a Danube river boat cruise with Lesa Snider in December of 2011. Lesa is the author of the Photoshop "Missing Manual" series of book. Lesa will conduct courses in digital photography during the Danube river boat cruise. You can learn more about the cruise at www.photocruisewithlesa.com.

TRAVEL NEWS

Book a scooter or wheel chair for your cruising clients on line!

A cruise ship that meets a families fantasies.

Delta Airlines and Seattle's Best Coffee create a winning customer experience.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Amy London
"Let's Fly" (mp3)
from "Let's Fly"
(Motema Music)

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278 - Reflections of a Travel Agent and What's in a Name

2011-01-30T17:22:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 278

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Barry talks about how to organize and name the files on your computer. The key is to organize and name your files so you can quickly locate them in the future. Here are examples of the naming conventions Barry talks about in the show.

Here is how I store Sara Smith's itinerary developed on January 30, 2011, "smith_sara-2011-01-30-itinerary". I store this document in the My Documents folder, in the sub folder "clients," in a sub folder named, "2011".

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Lorene reflect on her five years as a travel agent. We talk about her best experiences, things she might do differently if she had a "do over," and more.

TRAVEL NEWS

Using your smart phone to have food delivered at your airport departure gate

Expensive destinations that are quite affordable

A 313 MPG Volkswagen diesel to go on sale in 2013 (the 313 MPG is not a typo)

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Cee Cee James
"I'll Ask The Questions You Tell The Lies" (mp3)
from "Low Down Where The Snakes Crawl"
(Blue Skunk Music)

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277 - The Chocolate Farm and Travel Agent Licensing

2011-01-23T19:26:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 277

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Do you need a license in your state to sell travel? Barry tells you how to find out if you must obtain a license or register as a seller of travel.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Who wouldn't want to visit a chocolate farm? Will Lydgate from Steelgrass Farms joins Barry on the co-hosted segment to talk about tours offered at his family's farm. A tour of Steelgrass Farms is an educational experience you will want to tell your clients about if they are visiting Hawaii's island of Kauai. You can contact the farm at info@steelgrass.org or by telephone at 808-821-2857.

TRAVEL NEWS

Leisure travel demand slowly rising

Cruise activity growing worldwide

Frommers names the best cruise ships for 2011

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Emilie-Claire Barlow
"Comin' Home Baby" (mp3)
from "Haven't We Met?"
(Empress Music Group Inc)

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276 - Branding Your Business and Viking Riverboat Cruises

2011-01-15T19:28:00.003-05:00

Podcast Number 276

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Creating a brand for your business will help you gain business. Barry defines what a brand is and how you can create a brand for your travel business.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Mike Weldon from Viking Riverboat Cruise lines joins Lorene and Barry in the co-hosted segment of the show. Mike describes some of the fantastic cruises and the opportunities available to travel agents at Viking.

TRAVEL NEWS

NCL's Epic caters to solo cruisers

A shift in the earth's magnetic poles causes Tampa's airport to renumber its runways.

TSA Comments on X-Ray shielding undies

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Jill Barber
"Oh My My" (mp3)
from "Chances"
(Outside Music)

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275 - Taking Your Business to a New Level in 2011

2011-01-09T18:31:00.002-05:00

Podcast Number 275

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Grace Murray Hopper said, "A ship in port is safe, but that's not what ships are built for." Setting goals is like setting a course to take your business out of its safe harbor and taking it to a new level - after all, that's what business is for! Learn more in the business segment about setting effective goals for your travel business in 2011.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

We look back on 2010 and discuss events that had a impact on the travel business. We look forward to 2011 and talk about some things you can do to prepare your business for a new year.

TRAVEL NEWS

VAX Vacation Access offers travel agents the opportunity to participate in National Plan a Vacation Week.

The top ten all inclusive resorts

The latest digital travel innovations

Travel Professionals who sell Disney Cruise Line, expand your knowledge by taking part in the magic first-hand. Disney is offering a familiarization cruise sailing out of the Port of Los Angeles, California. The fam trip takes place Feb 5 - 13, 2011, with 1 night at the Disneyland Resort and 7 nights onboard the Disney Wonder.

Deadline to register is January 14, 2011. The registration fee is $545. Register now at www.disneytravelagents.com and go to the available courses section of the site.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Ana Popovic
"Get Back Home to You" (mp3)
from "Blind for Love"
(Eclecto Groove Records)

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274 - Lawful Endorsements and Creations from Koa Wood

2011-01-02T19:40:00.003-05:00

Podcast Number 274

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Client endorsements in your sales literature and on your website can work wonders to bring you sales. But, the Federal Trade Commission has some rules you need to know about when it comes to those endorsements. Barry highlights the rules so you can use endorsements with confidence and not run afoul with the law.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Candice Cummings from the Koa Store joins Lorene and Barry in the co-hosted segment of the show. Candice describes the beautiful Koa wood and how it is used in some of the 200 items for sale in the store. The items are handcrafted on site and include jewelry boxes, clocks, frames, ornaments and bookmarks. The Koa Store is a must visit location for your clients. Listen in and learn why. Call 800-838-9264 if you would like to speak with Candice or go to the website at http://www.thekoastore.com.

TRAVEL NEWS

Global travel demand improving

Passengers on U.S. airlines rise to its highest level in three years in September

Royal Caribbean raises its tipping guidelines for waiters and housekeeping staff

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Sara Jackson-Holman
"Come Back to Me" (mp3)
from "When You Dream"
(Expunged Records)

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273 - Hawaii Kayak Adventures and Web Pages That Grab Clients

2010-12-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

Podcast Number 273

Sponsor: Visit gotomeeting.com, click the try it free button and use promo code: Podcast.

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Create a web page that helps your potential clients to know, like and trust you. Put lessons learned in a survey conducted by Tealeaf to use on your website.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Micco Godinez from Kayak Kauai talks about the beauties of Kauai your clients can experience on one of his kayak tours. The tours include varied activities such as kayaking, walking and snorkeling. Kayak Kauai are experts in pleasing your clients because of their 27 years of experience conducting the tours.

TRAVEL NEWS

Princess Cruise Lines is angling for the fisherman with their Alaskan cruise.

Travelers are using technology to spy on those who spy on them.

Exciting plans for downtown Disney!

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Tami Tappan Damiano
"Hit Me With A Hot Note" (mp3)
from "Hot Notes"
(LML Music)

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272 - Giving, Getting Things Done and a New Travel Market

2010-11-21T20:03:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 272

Sponsor: Visit gotomeeting.com, click the try it free button and use promo code: Podcast.

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Keeping track of things to do is a challenge for the busy person. Barry has tried several online task management programs and found many lacking in one way or another. There is one task management program with a clunky name that stands out from the rest. Remember the Milk is Barry's favorite. Listen in and learn why.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Barry and Lorene deviate from the topic of travel to discuss the spirit of giving. A couple of uplifting experiences are on tap for the co hosted segment.

TRAVEL NEWS

Can travel agents take advantage of the underserved drive market?

A turn around for Columbia - its goal is to become the number one tourist destination in Latin America.

Disney is using tourist generated content to promote their parks.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Rachael Sage
"Bravedancing" (mp3)
from "Public Record"
(MPress Records)

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271 - Give Your Clients a Taste of France With Bella Terra Travel

2010-11-14T20:28:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 271

Sponsor: Visit gotomeeting.com, click the try it free button and use promo code: Podcast.

BUSINESS SEGMENT

What's the difference between cash and accrual methods of accounting? Which should you use for your travel business? Listen to the show and find out in the business segment.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Celia Coene and her team at Bella Terra Travel know France inside and out. They will use their knowledge to help you design a custom tour for your clients that can include all transfers, accommodations, tours, trains and rental cars. Bella Terra Travel can assist you and your clients in designing a river boat cruise aboard intimate small ships that offer all inclusive package that includes food prepared by French chefs, wine and bicycle tours.

You can contact Celia at celia@bellaterratravel.com or by telephone at 510-384-4678. Visit their website atwww.bellaterratravel.com.

TRAVEL NEWS

Registration is now open for ship inspections following Cruise360.

Norwegian Cruise Lines is adding two next generation free style cruise ships in 2013 and 2014.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

The Pipettes
"Call Me" (mp3)
from "Earth Vs The Pipettes"
(Fortuna POP)

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270 - An Unforgettable Experience Aboard 26 Glaciers Day Cruise

2010-11-07T20:09:00.001-05:00

Podcast Number 270

Sponsor: Visit gotomeeting.com, click the try it free button and use promo code: Podcast.

BUSINESS SEGMENT

Success in creating a direct mail piece depends on who you direct your mailing to and how you word the piece. Barry continues the discussion of direct mail describing how to create a direct mail piece that sells. Barry points you to resources to help you design your ad copy.

CO HOSTED SEGMENT

Ethan Tyler is the guest with Lorene and Barry in today's show. Ethan talks about Alaska's most popular glacier and wildlife cruise, 26 Glacier Cruise. Ethan describes the sights and sounds of the cruise and explains how travel agents can book this day cruise for their clients.

TRAVEL NEWS

Orbitz is offering incentives to join their Orbitz Agents program

Hootsuite is a dashboard where you can track your social media sites

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

The Quick & Easy Boys
"7 Ways" (mp3)
from "Red Light Rabbit"
(Per Capita Records)

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269 - Boost Your Business With Direct Marketing - Here's How!

2010-10-30T23:17:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 269

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

Marketing on Twitter and Facebook is all the buzz today. In fact, we've been a part of that buzz here on the Home Based Travel Agent Show. However, there is an old, tried and true marketing method that shouldn't be lost in all of the hype over social media. Barry goes solo in today's show and explains some of the intricacies of direct mail marketing.

Resources for direct mail marketing:

Mailing Lists Direct

Zip Who

Martin Worldwide

Direct Marketing Association

Valpak

TRAVEL NEWS

Is this really a time traveler shown in a 1928 film clip?

Bookings for the new ship Disney Fantasy begins on Wednesday

Do Americans prefer sleeping in as a vacation past time? A Princess Cruise Line survey has surprising results.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Kristine W
"Feel What You Want" (mp3)
from "Straight Up With a Twist"
(Fly Again)

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268 - Traveling Solo

2010-10-24T20:16:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 268

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

"Why wait for the perfect travel companion to go with you on your dream vacation?" Says Gray Cargill of the travel blog, "www.solofriendly.com." Gray is our guest in today's show and she talks with Gary and Barry about traveling solo. Gray loves to travel to Las Vegas; so much so that she created another blog at www.vegassolo.com. Please join us for a discussion about solo travel.

BUSINESS SEGMENT

In the business segment of the show I ask the question, "should you market your business on Facebook?" I answer that question with some surprising facts about Facebook.

TRAVEL NEWS

TSA's Secure Flight Program

50 Secrets Pilots Won't Tell You

Audio Travel Guides are taking on a social media dimension.

Visit us on Facebook –

Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz

Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorener

Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels.

Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

On Twitter

Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener

Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb

Gary's Twitter name is gary222

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

The music in the show is provided by Ariel Publicity. The artist is Lola Bleu and the song is Journey. You can learn more about Lola and purchase her album at her website, www.lolableu.com.

267 - Lorene and Barry Together at Viansa Winery

2010-10-09T16:00:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 267

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

Barry and Lorene meet in person for the second time in more than five years. Otherwise, Barry and Lorene meet once a week by telephone or Skype to record the Home Based Travel Agent Show. Barry and Lorene traveled to the Viansa Winery in Sonoma County where they recorded this show - together and in person!

The Home Based Travel Agent Show is missing a few episodes during the month of October. Barry traveled to Petaluma, California for the Mac Computer Expo during the first week of October. Barry is heading for Las Vegas in mid October for the Blog World and New Media Expo. The show should be back on its normal schedule in November.

The show will feature a new segment beginning with today's show. The new segment is a short piece on business topics related to starting and maintaining a travel agent business. We hope you enjoy this new segment and find it valuable in your business endeavors. Please drop us an email and let us know what you think.

TRAVEL NEWS

The first museum dedicated to American writers

Princess Cruise Lines announces a blog that has the ultimate bucket list

The music in the show is provided by Ariel Publicity. The artist is Lisa Hugo and the song is Butterfly. Lisa's music is available on iTunes and you can learn more about Lisa at her website, http://www.lisahugo.net/

266 - Top of the World Touring in Barrow, Alaska

2010-09-19T15:56:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 266

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

You don't want to miss this show because your clients now have many more options for sightseeing when visiting Alaska. Join us as Ethan Tyler describes these new offerings.

One of Ethan's enviable jobs is promoting Alaska through various organizations including Alaska Airline. Alaska Airline is now offering tours to out of the way places in Alaska where most tourists have not typically ventured - until now. In the show Ethan describes what it's like to visit Barrow, Alaska. Barrow is the northernmost city in the United States and is on the route for Alaska Airline's new tour packages.

TRAVEL NEWS

Cruise West ends operations

Entreprenurial activity in the U.S. is on the decline

Your next travel product specialty - how about tornado chasing?

A Chicago firm is working with travel agents to provide clients with a secure way to obtain medical information during an emergency

265 - Segway in Chicago

2010-09-12T19:08:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 265

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

Lorene interviews Barry about his recent trip to Chicago. Chicago is one of the top cities as a tourist destination in the country. The highlight of Barry's trip was a three hour tour of Chicago's lake front on a Segway. Barry talks about the Segway adventure and has some advice for businesses who promote their business with social media. Good advice for the travel trade community.

TRAVEL NEWS

Five Stories of Vacations Gone Wrong, with permission of author Roger Elmore, Hospitality Management Schools.

Luxury cruise returns to the Great Lakes

HIghway deaths are at the lowest levels since 1950

The music is from the National Guitar Workshop. The song is Lizard Lullaby by Jody Fisher. You can learn more at the National Guitar Workshop at www.guitarworkshop.com.

264 - Free Learning Opportunities at the Mac Computer Expo

2010-09-05T21:07:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 264

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

The North Coast Mac Users' Group is holding their annual Mac Computer Expo on October 2, 2010. Lorene is the event manager for the Expo and Barry is heading to California to attend the event. In this show Barry and Lorene talk about the line up of speakers for the event. All of the information presented at the event is useful for any business including the home based travel agent.

TRAVEL NEWS

Populate your Facebook page, your Tweets and Blog with content using this new service.

Home Based Agent learning opportunities at the TradeShow

Scott Koepf, former NACTA president joins America's Vacation Center as Vice President of Sales

Carnival's new cruise ship the Magic is offering fun features not seen in the cruise industry.

Nexion sold to Tzell Travel

Music in the show is provided Ariel Publicity. The song is, "Matador" by the Skii Harvey. The artist's website is at http://www.skiiharvey.com. Skii Harvey's music is available on Itunes.

263 - Marketing Your Travel Business, "The Idea Machine!"

2010-08-20T22:51:00.001-04:00

Podcast Number 263

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

This show is full of tips and ideas about how to market your travel business. Barry is in Chicago for a long weekend and Lorene is off on an adventure therefore the co-hosted segment is a repeat of the show recorded on September 23, 2007. Just because the show is a repeat doesn't mean it isn't valuable. Dave Stockert, a vice president for Holland America Cruise Lines joins Barry and Lorene to talk about the many ways you can market your travel business. Dave wrote the books, "The Idea Machine" and "The Idea Machine II" to give travel agents ideas on how to market their business. You can find the book at http://www.theideamachine.biz. Join us and hear all about how Dave developed his ideas and listen in as he passes along some of those ideas to you.

TRAVEL NEWS

Riverboat cruising shows strong growth

Three reasons why people prefer to work with travel agents

What makes the best dream vacation?

Music in the show is provided Ariel Publicity. The song is, "Jinki" by the Sokoband. Sokoband's website is at http://www.sokoband.com. Sokoband's music is available on Itunes.

262 - We Share Our Travel Agent University Experience With You

2010-08-14T21:56:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 262

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Gary Ebels, Lorene Romero and Barry share their experience with Travel Agent University. We each took a course at Travel Agent University and came to this show to report our experience. We talk about the process, the content and the perks you receive by taking training at the Travel Agent University. Listen and learn what this training has to offer you!

TRAVEL NEWS

Best Western's numbers show travel on the rise

Delta Airlines has integrated a booking engine into its Facebook page

The TSA now has an iPhone App!

Music in the show is provided Ariel Publicity. The song is, "Teach Me Tonight," by Connie Lansberg. Connie's website is at http://www.connielansberg.com. Her music is available on Itunes.

261 - A Truly Great Client Experience, The Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center

2010-08-08T16:37:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 261

The Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center is an excellent place to have your clients visit during a pre or post cruise. The Center is dedicated to preserving Alaskan wildlife through public education. Your clients will observe a variety of wildlife that the Center has rescued. Ethan Tyler, the Center's Director for Business Development, joins Lorene and Barry on the show to talk about the Center and some of the animal's stories.

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

TRAVEL NEWS

NOAA says the hurricane season is on course for some major hurricanes

Your flight attendant may be a former police officer or firefighter

Amelia Earhart photo exhibit is featured at the Royal Hawaiin Hotel

Visit us on Facebook – Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz, Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorenerand Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels. Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

Keep up with us on Twitter.com Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener, Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb and Gary is gary222 on Twitter.

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

William Goldstein
"Dance Class Boogie" (mp3)
from "Fame"
(New Gold Music Ltd)

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260 - Free Webinars for Travel Agents to Learn All About Social Media

2010-08-01T19:09:00.000-04:00

Podcast Number 260

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

Stephanie Lee and Martin Bell join Lorene and Barry to talk about free educational opportunities for travel agents. Stephanie's host agency company, Travel Quest is sponsoring several free webinars about how travel agents can use social media to improve their business. The three webinars are the first in a planned series and will be available as recorded webinars you can view at any time.

Travel Quest is holding the first series of seminars on August 11, August 19 and August 25, 2010. The live webinars begin at 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time. The first webinar is about search engine optimization. The August 19th webinar is on Twitter and the August 25th webinar is about marketing your travel business on Facebook.

To learn more listen to the show and go to www.tqagents.com to sign up.

TRAVEL NEWS

Customer service is one of the most important elements for consumers booking travel!

ITA Software launches "On the Fly" mobile airfare search software

Facebook jumps into the world of travel recommendations

Visit us on Facebook – Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz, Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorenerand Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels. Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

Keep up with us on Twitter.com Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener, Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb and Gary is gary222 on Twitter.

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Magic Slim and the Teardrops
"Shame" (mp3)
from "Raising The Bar"
(Blind Pig Records)

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259 - A Great Hotel for Your Clients Cruising out of South Florida

2010-07-25T10:00:00.003-04:00

Podcast Number 259

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

Olvin Sanchez joins Lorene and Barry to talk about the amenities of the Hilton Garden Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Hilton Garden is conveniently close to the Fort Lauderdale International Airport and to the Port Everglades Cruise Port. This is the perfect place to send your clients for their stay before or after their cruise. Olvin will work with you to design a package that fits your clients' needs.

TRAVEL NEWS

Does the merger of Google and ITA Software spell trouble?

Wearing your seat belt pays off

At the airport with 18 monkeys under your shirt

Visit us on Facebook – Barry at http://www.facebook.com/barry.kantz, Lorene at http://www.facebook.com/lorenerand Gary at http://www.facebook.com/gary.ebels. Join the Home Based Travel Agent Show Facebook Group.

Keep up with us on Twitter.com Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener, Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb and Gary is gary222 on Twitter.

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Jon Cleary, The Absolute Monster Gentlemen
"Mo Hippa" (mp3)
from "Mo Hippa Live"
(FHQ Records)

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258 - Travel Agent Training for the Beginner to the Professional

2010-07-18T20:58:00.002-04:00

Podcast Number 258

Training is important in any profession but perhaps essential in the travel industry. Lorene Romero, Gary Ebels and Barry Kantz discuss training opportunities ranging from the beginning travel agent to the seasoned professional. Gary's specialty is Disney therefore Gary goes in depth about Disneys training programs for travel agents. Lorene discusses training available for Anchorage, Alaska and for the Fairmont Hotels. Barry talks about Kelly Monaghan's home study course for the beginning travel agent. Hit the play button, welcome aboard and learn and enjoy.

Barry mentions a resource for travel agents to locate jobs in the travel industry. The site is Get Travel Agent Jobs.

Sponsor: Hold your meetings online for just $49 a month Try GoToMeeting free.

TRAVEL NEWS

Sharing vacation information on social media sites is common for over 50% of all travelers

A new Best Friends pet care resort at Walt Disney World

Keep up with us on Twitter.com Lorene’s Twitter name is lorener, Barry’s Twitter name is kantzb and Gary is gary222 on Twitter.

Check out Lorenes travel agent website at www.sharptonguedconsulting.com.

Thank you for listening to the Home Based Travel Agent Podcast. You can email me at barry@hometravelagent.net or email Lorene at sharptongued@mac.com and Gary at wdwgary@gmail.com.

Sounds of Inner City
"Mary Hartman, Marty Hartman" (mp3)
from "Keep On Dancin': A Tribute to the Godfather of Disco Mel Cheren (Part 1)"
(West End Records)

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