In this episode of the Necessary Disruptors show, host Stephanie speaks with Sherry Rupert, the CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA). They discuss the importance of preserving indigenous cultures through tourism, creating equitable opportunities, and sustaining local communities. Sherry shares her personal journey into advocating for indigenous tourism and highlights the role of AIANTA in promoting cultural heritage and fostering economic growth within tribal nations. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in the tourism industry, emphasizing the need for inclusion and responsible partnerships. This episode sheds light on the essential work being done to amplify underrepresented voices and redefine the narrative of American history through indigenous tourism.

00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptors Show: Exploring Indigenous Tourism

01:34 Sherry Rupert's Journey into Indigenous Tourism Advocacy

07:06 The Role of AIANTA in Championing Indigenous Tourism

14:02 Challenges and Opportunities in Indigenous Tourism

16:53 Partnerships and Representation in the Tourism Industry

32:35 Vision for the Future of Indigenous Tourism

37:13 Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Learn More

Learn more about Sherry and AIANTA

Website: www.aianta.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-rupert-0900021a9/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aianta_official

Pivoting with Purpose: A Journey Through Disruption in Travel

In this episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast, host Stephanie M. Jones engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Denella Ri'chard, a former cruise corporate executive turned talk show host. The discussion delves into Denella's remarkable career journey, her resilience in the face of the global pandemic's challenges, and her successful pivot from the corporate world to creating and hosting the nationally syndicated 'Traveling with Denella Ri'chard' show. The episode highlights themes of disruption, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the importance of leveraging one's network and creating new paths in industries like travel and tourism. Denella shares insights on the significance of featuring small Black businesses and destinations, the profound impact of her decisions to create opportunities where none existed, and the importance of divine guidance in her pursuit of success. Stephanie concludes the episode by emphasizing the power of disruption to inspire positive change and encourages listeners to be catalysts themselves.

00:53 Diving Deep with Denella Ri'chard: Pivoting with Purpose

03:38 From Baton Rouge to Global Stages: Denella's Journey

07:48 Breaking Barriers: Denella's Transition into the Travel Industry

11:31 Facing the Pandemic: A Necessary Pivot to Television

16:07 Amplifying Black Businesses and Communities Through Travel

19:47 Creating Your Own Path: Lessons in Disruption and Innovation

33:03 The Power of Faith and Vision in Achieving Success

Connect with Denella:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denella/

Website: https://www.travelingwithdenella.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelingwithdenella/

This episode of the Necessary Disruptor Podcast features Stacey Ritter, CEO of Visit Lauderdale, discussing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in destination stewardship. As a change agent, Ritter shares insights from her transition from politics to tourism, emphasizing her efforts to amplify diverse cultures and communities in Fort Lauderdale, driving both economic and cultural growth. The conversation covers strategic initiatives for multicultural marketing, fostering local partnerships, and counteracting negative messaging with inclusive branding. Ritter's leadership prioritizes authentic representation and community engagement, aiming to make Visit Lauderdale a welcoming destination for all. The episode also explores challenges faced by DMOs in addressing DEI and the critical role of bold, fearless leadership in shaping tourism strategies for a more inclusive future.

00:00 Welcome to the Necessary Disruptor Podcast

00:07 Introducing Stacey Ritter: A Beacon of Inclusivity in Tourism

02:17 Stacey Ritter's Journey from Politics to Tourism Leadership

04:23 Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Visit Lauderdale

06:35 Strategies for Promoting Multicultural Tourism and Community Engagement

15:03 The Impact of Leadership and Team Dynamics on Destination Stewardship

28:28 Future Initiatives and the Importance of Inclusive Destination Marketing

33:44 Advice for Other Destinations on Prioritizing DEI in Tourism Strategies

42:52 Closing Thoughts and the Road Ahead

Website: www.visitlauderdale.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-ritter-10454917/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitlauderdale