Host agencies are hiring, but can’t find qualified travel advisors. In this eye-opening episode, Kelli and Cyndi dive into the Travel Weekly article that sparked a deeper conversation about burnout, barriers to entry, and the disconnect between advisor expectations and host agency realities.

We’re sharing:

• Why over 60% of agencies report hiring struggles

• How undertrained ICs are slowing growth and causing burnout

• The difference between hobbyists and business owners

• Real stats from our vetted host partners about graduate success

• How boutique agencies can protect their growth (and their sanity)

• Why now is the time to invest in real training and certification

This episode is a must-listen for travel advisors, host agency leaders, and anyone passionate about the future of the travel industry.

🔗 Book your FREE goal mapping session
🎟️ Grab your seat for the Wander Beyond Retreat

Episode Description:

In this bonus episode of the Bliss to Abundance Podcast, Kelli Hayes Smith chats with Royal Caribbean’s Anthony Meloro about the Ovation of the Seas — one of Royal’s most versatile and elegant ships.

They explore:

• What makes Ovation stand out in the fleet

• Why it’s perfect for Alaska and short Mexico itineraries

• Ideal client profiles and how to qualify effectively

• Group travel opportunities, including Royal Celebrations

• How to increase commissions through strategic bookings

This is a must-listen for advisors looking to elevate their cruise game and deliver unforgettable experiences for their clients.

🎧 Listen in and start dreaming about whales, glass walls, and Tiki bars at sea.

🔗 Learn more at wanderlustcampus.com

In this episode, Kelli Hayes Smith and Cyndi Williams unpack one of the biggest questions in the travel business today: Where should you invest to grow sustainably?

Whether you're just getting started or scaling your agency, this conversation dives into how to make smart, strategic investments—from education to tech to marketing.

You'll hear real talk about financial awareness, red flags in the industry, and how to evaluate opportunities that actually move the needle. They also share how Wander Beyond Retreat was built to offer real ROI—not just hype.

💡 Key Takeaways

• You don’t need to invest in everything—but you do need a plan.

• Knowing your numbers helps you make better decisions.

• The right education can shortcut years of trial and error.

• Not all conferences or trainings are worth the hype—evaluate ROI carefully.

• Marketing is evolving—organic alone isn’t enough anymore.

• Watch out for flashy marketing with no substance.

• Prioritize mentorship and strategy before scaling with tech.

• Tech should support your systems—not overwhelm them.

• Paid marketing isn’t optional if you want to grow.

• Mistakes are part of the journey—but so is learning from them.

🎧 Sound Bites

• “You don’t have to buy everything to be successful.”

• “Organic reach isn’t dead—but it’s not enough.”

• “We don’t just want you to feel good—we want you to grow.”

• “Strategy comes before automation.”

• “Wander Beyond was designed to give you real ROI, not just inspiration.”

  ⏱️ Episode Chapters

  00:00 – Kicking off the conversation on smart investments03:03 – What new agents really need to spend on first05:53 – How knowing your financials builds confidence08:40 – What to look for in courses, programs, and events11:39 – Red flags in industry marketing14:26 – Building an intentional investment strategy21:55 – Why so many agents get stuck in the marketing phase24:48 – How to avoid wasted spend on paid advertising28:06 – Lessons learned from marketing mistakes30:45 – Tech tools vs. tech overwhelm: finding the balance32:53 – The power of mentorship and coaching at the right time35:34 – Vetting tools, tech, and marketing partners36:26 – What makes Wander Beyond Retreat a strategic investment