This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Tammy and Justin Murphy, the mother–son duo behind VIP Travel Experience. Over the past decade, they’ve built a thriving, referral-based luxury travel business rooted in trust, creativity, and shared passion. What started as Tammy taking over a small agency from her brother has evolved into a multi-million-dollar company with a team of seven, top producer status, and clients who return year after year.

In this episode, Tammy and Justin reflect on the lessons of building a family-run business, from balancing roles and responsibilities to navigating growth and hiring. They share how Tammy’s early passion for Italy shaped their brand, how Justin brought fresh energy and detail-oriented expertise, and why their group trips have become a signature part of their success.

They also explore:

1. What it really takes to grow from solo advisor to thriving team

2. The challenges and rewards of running a business with family

3. Why referrals and long-term client relationships drive sustainable growth

4. The evolution of group travel and how to make it a profitable niche

5. Their most meaningful “pinch me” travel moments

Whether you’re dreaming of bringing family into your business or curious about scaling beyond solo, Tammy and Justin’s story is a candid look at what it means to build a business that lasts.

🔗VIP Travel Experience: https://www.viptravelexperience.com/

Behind every travel advisor’s success is an organization fighting for the profession. Meredith chats with ASTA President & CEO, Zane Kerby, about why ASTA matters, how it’s protecting advisors at every level, and the real stories of wins that keep this industry thriving.

Learn more: https://www.asta.org/

This week on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast, host Meredith Calloway is joined by Travel MBA alum, longtime GTN mentor, and cruise expert, Celeste Auger Munshi of Indulgent Voyages. In this episode, Celeste shares how she moved from corporate structure to entrepreneurship, why cruises are one of the most versatile and lucrative products for advisors to sell, and how she has built a successful business while navigating the realities of being a caregiver.

Topics covered in this episode include:

1. Dispelling common cruise misconceptions and finding the right fit for every traveler

2. How to grow a business through referrals, repeat clients, and deep relationships

3. Designing a sustainable business model around your capacity and priorities

4. The unique flexibility of travel advising for different life stages and needs

From multi-generational vacations to once-in-a-lifetime expeditions, Celeste’s story shows how you can create meaningful travel experiences for clients while building a business that works for your unique life circumstances.

🔗Indulgent Voyages: https://www.indulgentvoyages.com/