Leigh Barnes

President of the Americas

Intrepid Travel

https://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/leigh-barnes/

Leigh has recently stepped into a new role as President of Americas, where he will oversee Intrepid’s expansion into the USA, the company’s fastest growing market. Leigh will manage direct, industry and white label sales as well as operations across North, Central and South America. Previously Chief Purpose Officer and then Chief Customer Officer, he’s been instrumental in building Intrepid’s reputation as a purpose-led, customer-focussed organisation. Outside of work, Leigh’s an avid supporter of local arts scenes and a keen ocean swimmer - even in the frosty Pacific Northwest where he is based.
Leigh's top Intrepid trip is Everest Base Camp Trek, which he credits for changing the way he sees the world.

Summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins speaks with Leigh Barnes, the President of the Americas for Intrepid Travel. They discuss the essence of Intrepid Travel, focusing on sustainable travel and community impact. Lee shares his personal journey from working at Intrepid to his transformative experiences traveling the world. He reflects on his upbringing in Australia, the challenges he faced while living in the UK, and how these experiences shaped his career and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the importance of travel in understanding oneself and the world, as well as the exciting developments at Intrepid Travel.

Takeaways

• Intrepid Travel focuses on sustainable experiences and community impact.
• Traveling in the UK was a formative experience for Lee.
• Leigh's role at Intrepid has evolved over 15 years.
• The importance of storytelling and personal responsibility in travel.
• AI presents new opportunities in the travel industry.
• Intrepid aims to create more intrepid travelers in the Americas.
• Travel is a way to learn about oneself and the world.

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