Phoebe Maina
CEO
Steri Tours and Travel | Kenya
https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/phoebe-maina/

With over a decade in the non-profit sector and a smooth transition into private travel planning, I bring a unique skill set for individuals, corporate clients, and international NGOs. My background gives me a deep understanding of client needs, while personal interactions with Americans and Europeans help me tailor meaningful African travel experiences.

I am the founder of Steri Tours and Travel, dedicated to crafting impactful journeys that support women’s empowerment, community development, business growth, and child protection. With 15 years as a social impact expert managing turnaround projects and global initiatives, I offer insight into multicultural dynamics and sustainable tourism.

Recognized as an award winner at the 63rd UN Commission on the Status of Women, I strive to simplify travel while fostering authentic experiences that drive African economic growth and benefit both travelers and host communities.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Phoebe Maina, CEO of STERI Tours and Travel. Phoebe shares her inspiring journey from a remote village in Kenya to leading a dynamic tourism company that emphasizes cultural immersion and community empowerment. She discusses the importance of family support in her education, her transition from aspiring doctor to tourism entrepreneur, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in cultural experiences. Phoebe highlights the role of technology and social media in shaping cultural perceptions and the need for respectful interactions between travelers and local communities. The conversation concludes with Phoebe's passion for showcasing the diverse cultures of Kenya and her commitment to creating meaningful travel experiences.

takeaways

• Traveling is not just about the destination, but the people.
• Phoebe's childhood experiences shaped her passion for travel.
• Family support is crucial in education and personal growth.
• Cultural immersion enhances the travel experience.
• Tourism can empower local communities economically.
• Authenticity in cultural experiences is vital for both travelers and hosts.
• Technology impacts cultural traditions and perceptions.
• Respectful interactions are essential in tourism.
• Training guides to maintain cultural authenticity is important.
• Kenya's diverse cultures offer rich experiences for travelers.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Abdylla Geldiyev
Founder & Managing Director
Undiscovered Frontiers
https://undiscoveredfrontiers.com/

Abdylla Geldiyev is the founder and managing director of Undiscovered Frontiers, a boutique travel company based in Michigan. A lifelong traveler and advocate for immersive, culturally rich experiences in Central Asia, his journey into tourism began in 2005, when he was asked to guide an Italian writer/enthusiast researching the native dogs of Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert. What started as a chance opportunity quickly grew into a passion and ultimately a career.

Over the years, Abdylla built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and trusted guides in Turkmenistan, leading archaeological, cultural, and special-interest tours for international operators, museums, travel clubs, and guidebook writers. Later, in a sales role, he expanded his expertise across Central Asia, the Caucasus, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

In 2016, Abdylla moved with his family to the United States to pursue the American Dream. After completing his studies in business at Loyola University and sharing his valuable and hands on experience with U.S.-based travel companies, he launched Undiscovered Frontiers together with his curious son, Iskender, offering transformative journeys across Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Turkey, and beyond. Fluent in four languages, Abdylla brings both a global perspective and deep local knowledge to every journey he curates.

summary
In this episode, Jason Elkins interviews Abdylla Geldiyev, founder of Undiscovered Frontiers, about travel in Central Asia, particularly the Five Stans. Abdylla shares insights on the unique experiences travelers can have in these off-the-beaten-path destinations, the growing popularity of the region, and the cultural richness that awaits visitors. He also discusses his personal journey from Turkmenistan to the United States and the establishment of his travel company, emphasizing the importance of authentic cultural interactions and unique travel experiences.

takeaways

• Undiscovered Frontiers offers off-the-beaten-path experiences in Central Asia.
• The Five Stans are gaining popularity among travelers seeking unique adventures.
• Each Stan has its own unique beauty and cultural heritage.
• Travelers often find that their experiences exceed their expectations.
• Tourism infrastructure in the Stans is improving, with investments in hotels and transportation.
• Cultural interactions with locals enhance the travel experience significantly.
• Abdylla's journey from Turkmenistan to the U.S. showcases the power of resilience and opportunity.
• Undiscovered Frontiers aims to provide innovative and creative travel experiences.
• Traveling to Turkmenistan requires a letter of invitation and a local guide.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting with different cultures.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Sarah O. Vidal
Founder & Brand Consultant
Cultured Creative
https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/sarah-vidal/

Sarah is the founder of Cultured Creative, a brand strategy and design studio that guides responsible tourism brands to attract the right guests. She’s seen many purpose-driven travel businesses struggle with visibility. The issue isn’t a lack of heart, but a lack of the right tools and guidance. Drawing on her Nigerian-American roots, passion for cultural travel, and 12 years of branding and marketing experience, Sarah shares strategies to help travel brands tell their stories and grow in ways that honor purpose, people, and profit.

summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Sarah O. Vidal, founder of Cultured Creative, a branding studio focused on responsible tourism. Sarah shares her journey from Nigeria to the U.S., her experiences with cultural communication, and the importance of storytelling in branding. They discuss the challenges of fitting in, the significance of clarity in communication, and how active listening can enhance connections. Sarah also talks about her seasonal digital nomad lifestyle and the purpose behind her work in supporting travel brands that prioritize community and cultural experiences.

takeaways

• Cultured Creative focuses on branding for responsible tourism brands.
• Visibility is crucial for travel businesses to thrive.
• Storytelling is essential for connecting with audiences.
• Active listening enhances communication and relationships.
• Clarity in communication is more important than accent.
• Travel experiences shape understanding of clients' needs.
• Managing expectations can lead to better travel experiences.
• Cultural travel supports local businesses and communities.
• Networking events can foster collaboration in the travel industry.
• Communication skills can be developed through practice and experience.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.