2025 EVENT SCHEDULE
PRE-EVENT: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
4:00PM - 5:00PM
Virtual Orientation
*Eastern Daylight Time
This orientation will bring together all Future Leaders attendees ahead of the event. Hosted by Future Leaders team members and 2025 Guides, the webinar will cover what to expect, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of your Future Leaders experience.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
ALL DAY Arrivals
4:00PM - 6:00PM Attendee Registration
7:00PM - 9:00PM Welcome Reception: Sip, Savor, & Connect
Kick off Future Leaders with skyline sunsets and unforgettable vibes. Enjoy delicious bites, craft cocktails, and even better company at our upbeat welcome reception. It’s the perfect chance to mix, mingle, and break the ice with industry peers while savoring local flavors. Set the tone for an inspiring week ahead—because this is where meaningful connections begin.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
7:30AM - 8:15AM Breakfast & Opening Remarks
Welcome to Future Leaders!
Presented by Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief, TravelAge West
Welcome from our Host Destination
Presented by Alaska - Visit Anchorage
Glacier Breaker - “Two Truths, and a Travel Lie”
In this twist on the classic game, each person at a table will share three quick statements about their travel experiences (two true, one false). The table guesses the lie.
8:25AM - 9:43AM Appointments
9:53AM - 10:43AM Workshop - AI in Action: Smarter, Faster, More Human
Presented by Tern
AI isn’t replacing travel advisors — but it’s definitely changing how they work. In this collaborative workshop, Tern will kick things off with a look at how they’re integrating AI into their platform and internal workflows, offering practical tips for using automation to save time without losing the personal touch. Then, the floor opens to advisors: through a fast-paced round robin, participants will swap ideas, strategies, and real-life examples of how they’re using AI to streamline research, enhance client communications, create content, and level up their business behind the scenes.
Presented by David Shull, CEO, Tern; and Dylan Velinsky, Head of Partnerships, Tern
10:53AM - 12:13PM General Session
Welcome from our Host Hotel
Presented by The Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
“Post It, Pin It” Intention Wall
At the start of the event, attendees will add a goal, question, or concern to a communal “Intention Wall” using the prompts: Grow, Fix, Start, Stop. These contributions will serve as a thread throughout the event—referenced by guides during sessions and revisited on Day 3 to reflect on clarity, progress, and next steps.
Presented by the TravelAge West & TravelPulse Editorial teams
Spotlight, sponsored by Globus family of brands & Avalon Waterways
Presented by Dave Llewellyn, Manager, Channel Marketing & Sales Development, Globus family of brands
Pitch Perfect
In this fast-paced, gameshow-style general session, suppliers are on the clock to “pitch” their product (or destination) to our lineup of discerning Future Leaders Guides and, ultimately, win their business. Suppliers will walk away with insights on how to refine their elevator pitch for different client scenarios, while travel advisors will learn how to better qualify supplier partners during the trip-planning process.
Presented by the TravelAge West & TravelPulse Editorial teams
12:13PM - 1:13PM Lunch
1:23PM - 2:23PM Workshop: Getting to YES Faster! Personality Selling With Bulls, Owls, Lambs and Tigers
Presented by Vacation Planners
Unlock the key to effortless sales and seamless communication in travel planning (and life!). Join the President of Vacation Planners, Jenn Lee, for an insightful and interactive session to transform how you connect with clients, advisors/suppliers and understand yourself. Delve into the world of four distinct personality types – Bulls, Owls, Lambs and Tigers – and discover how this knowledge can dramatically boost your success as a travel advisor or supplier. You can elevate your business relationships, boost your sales performance and transform your approach to being a travel pro.
Presented by Jenn Lee, President, Vacation Planners
2:33PM - 3:23PM General Session: Afternoon Recharge
Mini Meditation and Refocusing
Led by Cat Brask, Senior Marketing Director, Northstar Travel Group
Spotlight, sponsored by Virgin Voyages
Presented by Lauren Harris, Senior Manager, National Accounts, Virgin Voyages
Stories from the Last Frontier
Discover the power of passion and place in this inspiring session featuring two dynamic Alaskan leaders. Mandy Garcia, Co-Owner of Salmon Berry Tours, shares her journey from Wisconsin to Alaska and how she built a thriving tour company in her early 30s. Joining her is Kelsey Wallace from the Alaska Native Heritage Center, who will reflect on her path as a young Indigenous leader and the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage. Together, their stories highlight resilience, entrepreneurship, and the unique spirit that defines Alaska.
Presented by the TravelAge West & TravelPulse Editorial teams
Spotlight, sponsored by WorldVia
Presented by Laura DeVeiga, Director of Agency Development, WorldVia
3:33PM - 5:05PM Appointments
6:15PM - 9:30PM Campfire Connections: An Evening at Hilltop Ski Area
Join us for an evening of camp vibes and quality connections! After a full day of sessions, unwind by the firepits with local flavors and live music. Whether you’re bonding over games, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, or simply enjoying the night air, it’s the perfect way to wrap up the day. Upon arrival—and weather permitting—chairlifts will be running for those who’d like to ride up the mountain and enjoy a short walk back down to the event.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23
7:30AM - 8:15AM Breakfast & Reflection
Welcome to Day 2!
Presented by Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief, TravelAge West
8:25AM - 9:43AM Appointments
9:53AM - 10:33AM Workshop: Experiential Travel vs. Bucket List Tourism: Curating Transformative Experiences
Presented by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions
10:43AM - 12:06PM General Session
A Moment with Travel Insured International
Spotlight, sponsored by Gifted Travel Network
Presented by Caroline Hollar, Director of Marketing, Gifted Travel Network
Guide-Led Panel Discussion
Spotlight, sponsored by Princess Cruises
Presented by Mary Jacquel, Director, Alaska Planning and Marketing, Princess Cruises
12:06PM - 1:06PM Lunch
1:16PM - 2:01PM Workshop: Crisis Simulation
Step into the hot seat with our Crisis Simulator, a high-energy, small-group workshop designed to test your problem-solving skills under pressure. You’ll face rapid-fire scenarios—like missed flights, last-minute change requests, or travel restrictions—and work together to find quick, effective solutions. After navigating these challenges, groups will come together to reflect, share insights, and swap best practices. Get ready to sharpen your adaptability, learn from your peers, and walk away better prepared for whatever surprises the industry throws your way.
2:11PM - 2:51PM General Session: Afternoon Recharge
“The Moth”
By this point in Future Leaders, we will have been deep in workshops, small group talks, and reflection. This theme invites attendees to share a moment from their career when something snapped into place: their niche, their value as an advisor, their confidence, their boundaries, their shift from “hobbyist” to entrepreneur, their realization they didn’t have to do it like everyone else.
Presented by the TravelAge West & TravelPulse Editorial teams
3:01PM - 4:33PM Appointments
6:00PM* - 10:OOPM Embark on an Adventure with the Alaska Railroad!
All aboard the Alaska Railroad, where breathtaking landscapes meet a lively onboard experience. As we travel along the stunning Turnagain Arm, enjoy delicious food and drinks to set the perfect mood for the ride. Sing your heart out with karaoke, groove to beats from a live DJ, and be serenaded by a talented local musician—all while surrounded by awe-inspiring views. Choo choo!
*Attendees will depart the hotel at 5:15pm
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
7:30AM - 8:00AM Breakfast
8:00AM - 9:30AM General Session
A Look Ahead
Presented by Cat Brask, Senior Marketing Director, Northstar Travel Group
Postcard Activity & Reflection
The Annual Future Leaders “Think Tank”
Join us for a thought-provoking Think Tank discussion featuring visionary leaders in the travel industry. This session will explore the critical aspects of building and sustaining successful travel businesses, with a focus on identifying the right clients, the vital role of mentorship, and setting healthy boundaries in professional relationships. Speakers will also share insights on balancing personal and professional life, attracting quality customers, and the essential tools and strategies that have fueled their success.
Future Leaders Travel Industry Travia, sponsored by Rental Escapes
10:00AM - 5:00PM Group Activity
Glacier Cruise with Phillips Cruises and Tours
Sail away on an adventure through Prince William Sound. Departing from Whittier, you’ll cruise past stunning glaciers and dramatic fjords, including the majestic Blackstone Bay. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sea otters, sea lions, and eagles, while enjoying the breathtaking views. Learn about the region’s history and natural beauty as you explore one of Alaska’s most pristine landscapes.
