Love2Lead

About Love2Lead

Love2Lead brings together Al Hutchinson, a veteran leader with 30 years of experience in destination marketing organizations, and award-winning podcast host Aaron Dante. Each episode explores what strong, effective leadership looks like in the tourism industry through conversations with accomplished leaders and professionals. The show breaks down core leadership principles, practical strategies, and real-life experiences that have shaped successful careers, offering listeners clear takeaways they can apply to their own leadership journeys.

Publisher

AVH Enterprise

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

2 Feb 2026

Latest episode

16 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Oct 2026

   DJ Johnson, Senior Director of Association Governance Operations at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

   In the sixth episode of Season Two of the Love2Lead podcast, Al and Aaron sit down with DJ Johnson, Senior Director of Association Governance Operations at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). DJ shares his perspective on building strong teams, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, authenticity, and adaptability. He discusses why leadership isn't just about winning or losing, but about winning and learning, and how every experience is an opportunity for growth. DJ also dives into the importance of developing strong habits, understanding your purpose, and staying true to your values. He shares why having a strong personal foundation and continuously investing in yourself are essential to becoming a better leader. This conversation offers valuable lessons for young and emerging leaders looking to grow, develop their leadership style, and build a foundation for success.

2. 

   14 Oct 2026

   Jason Dunn CEO National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals

   In the fifth episode of Season Two of the Love2Lead podcast, Al and Aaron sit down with Jason Dunn, CEO of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP). Jason shares his journey to becoming CEO, the lessons he's learned over the past four years in the role, and the experiences that have shaped him into the leader he is today. He also reflects on making history as the first African American Vice President at Visit Cincy and how each step in his career has helped prepare him for where he is now. Throughout the conversation, Jason reflects on the life lessons he learned from his parents and family, particularly the importance of always showing up as his most authentic self, staying true to who he is, and helping those around him reach their full potential. He also dives into the value of mentorship and surrounding yourself with people who aren't afraid to tell you the truth, challenge you, and push you to become the best version of yourself. This is a great listen for emerging leaders and anyone looking to grow in the tourism and hospitality industry. Jason's journey offers valuable insights into navigating a career, embracing new opportunities, and leading with authenticity and purpose. Thanks for our sponsors: Destinations International, PCMA, ASAE, No Pix After Dark, AVH Enterprise

3. 

   12 Oct 2026

   Anthony Cordo President/CEO Visit Greensboro

   In the fourth episode of Season Two of Love2Lead, Aaron and Al sit down with Anthony Cordo, President and CEO of Visit Greensboro, who has been in his role for just over a year. Anthony reflects on his first year as CEO, highlighting the importance of building a strong team, fostering camaraderie, and surrounding yourself with people who bring different perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table. He also discusses the challenges of stepping into a leadership role in a new community, including the importance of building relationships, educating stakeholders, and understanding the unique dynamics of a destination. Throughout the conversation, Anthony shares his perspective on career growth in the destination marketing industry, including how advancing into executive leadership often requires relocating to a new city and embracing unfamiliar opportunities. This is a great episode for emerging leaders in the destination marketing space who want to hear firsthand from a relatively new CEO about the lessons he's learned, the challenges he's navigated, and how he's continued to grow as both a leader and a member of his new community. Thanks for our sponsors: Destinations International, PCMA, ASAE, No Pix After Dark, AVH Enterprise

4. 

   18 Sept 2026

   Randall Woodfin Mayor of Birmingham and Dan Williams President/CEO Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau

   In the third episode of Season Two of Love2Lead, Al sits down with Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and Dan Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, partnership, and the people who make great organizations and cities work. Together, they explore what it means to lead with love and empathy, why strong leaders value and trust the teams around them, and how creating a culture where people feel supported can shape an organization from the inside out. The conversation also highlights the importance of a strong relationship between a city’s mayoral office and its tourism organization, and how collaboration can help strengthen the way a destination tells its story and serves its community. Mayor Woodfin and Dan also reflect on the role that courage plays in leadership. They discuss the importance of taking risks, stepping into opportunities before everything feels perfectly aligned, and trusting that some of the most meaningful moments in your career can come from being willing to move before you have all the answers. It’s a conversation about people, partnership, bold decisions, and the kind of leadership that can take you somewhere you never imagined you would go.

5. 

   16 Sept 2026

   Kristen Reynolds President/CEO Choose Chicago

   On the second episode of Season Two of Love2Lead, Aaron and Al sit down with Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago and a nearly 30-year veteran of the destination marketing industry. Kristen shares lessons from her decades of leadership experience, including the importance of staying nimble and knowing how to navigate disruption in an industry that is constantly evolving. They discuss the value of learning and failing fast, trusting your own leadership instincts, and being willing to adapt when circumstances change. The conversation also explores the realities of leading in a performance-driven business. Kristen shares why destination marketing leaders need to understand how success is measured, remain accountable for results, and recognize that strong leadership requires both vision and the ability to deliver. Thanks for our sponsors: Destinations International, PCMA, ASAE, No Pix After Dark, AVH Enterprise

6. 

   14 Sept 2026

   John Bacon Vice President, Sales & Partner Experience ASAE

   Season Two, Episode One of Love2Lead builds on the momentum of the first season with a renewed focus on emerging leaders and the future of the destination marketing industry. To kick off the season, Aaron and Al sit down with John Bacon, Vice President of Sales & Partner Experience at ASAE, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, professional growth, and the people who help shape us along the way. John shares his perspective on the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders and creating opportunities for others to grow. He also discusses the value of building your own personal “board of trustees,” a trusted group of mentors, colleagues, and advocates who can challenge you, support you, and invest in your development throughout your career. The conversation also explores the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, staying open to new opportunities, and continuing to learn as your career evolves. It’s a strong start to Season Two and a reminder that great leadership is not only about your own success, but also about helping the next generation find theirs. Thanks for our sponsors: ASAE, PCMA, Destinations International, No Pix After Dark, AVH Enterprise

7. 

   17 Jul 2026

   Episode 9:Elliott L. Ferguson II President/CEO Destination DC

   In Episode 9 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron are joined by Elliott L. Ferguson II, President and CEO of Destination DC, for a conversation on leadership, representation, and the future of the destination marketing industry. Elliott reflects on his leadership journey, the need for greater diversity across DMO leadership, and the importance of creating stronger pathways for the next generation of industry leaders. He also discusses how tourism can drive economic opportunity, strengthen communities, and help destinations tell more inclusive stories. Throughout the episode, Elliott shares thoughtful perspective on leading with intention, mentoring others, and using leadership to open doors. Thanks to our sponsors: PCMA, Longwoods International, Tourism Economics, and SearchWide Global.

8. 

   26 Jun 2026

   Episode 8: Gregg Caren President/CEO Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau

   In Episode 8 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron are joined by Gregg Caren, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, for a conversation on leadership, resilience, and the power of destination marketing to drive economic impact and civic pride. With decades of experience across hospitality, venue management, and the tourism industry, Gregg reflects on what it takes to lead through change, build strong partnerships, and position Philadelphia as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, sporting events, and global visitors. He shares perspective on the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and storytelling in strengthening a city’s brand and supporting the broader hospitality community. The episode also explores the role of destination leaders in bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities for the next generation of tourism professionals. Gregg offers thoughtful advice on building trust, staying focused through challenges, and leading with purpose.

9. 

   12 Jun 2026

   Episode 7: Brand USA President and CEO Fred Dixon

   In Episode 6 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron are joined by Fred Dixon, President and CEO of Brand USA, for a conversation on leadership, partnership, and the power of travel to connect people and communities. With decades of experience across the tourism and destination marketing industry, Fred reflects on what it takes to lead through change, build alignment across stakeholders, and champion the United States on the global stage. He shares perspective on the importance of collaboration, innovation, and storytelling in strengthening the travel industry and driving meaningful impact. The episode also the role of destination leaders in supporting local economies, and the opportunities ahead for the next generation of tourism professionals. Fred offers thoughtful advice on staying curious, building strong relationships, learning from challenges, and leading with purpose. Thanks to our sponsors: PCMA, Longwoods International, Tourism Economics, and SearchWide Global.

10. 

    29 May 2026

    Episode 6: Destinations International President/CEO

    In Episode 6 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron welcome Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International, for a conversation on leadership, collaboration, and the evolving future of travel and tourism. Drawing on decades of experience leading destination organizations and industry initiatives, Don shares insights on building high-performing teams, fostering meaningful partnerships, and navigating change in an increasingly complex world. He discusses how strong leadership can unite diverse stakeholders around a common vision and why adaptability has become essential for organizations looking to thrive. The conversation also explores the changing role of destination organizations, the economic impact of tourism, and the opportunities that lie ahead for communities and travel professionals alike. Don offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building, learning from failure, curiosity, and leading with love & passion. Thanks to our sponsors: SearchWide Global, Tourism Economics, PCMA, and Longwoods International.

11. 

    15 May 2026

    Episode 5: ASAE President/CEO Michelle Mason

    In Episode 5 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron are joined by Michelle Mason, President and CEO of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), for a conversation about mentorship, servant leadership, and the value of strong professional communities in a rapidly changing world. Michelle reflects on her journey to leading ASAE and shares lessons learned from guiding one of the association industry’s most respected organizations through periods of growth, disruption, and innovation. From the future of meetings and events to the impact of AI on organizations and workforce development, Michelle offers a thoughtful perspective on her own personal leadership philosophy. Thanks to our sponsors: SearchWide Global, Tourism Economics, PCMA, and Longwoods International.

12. 

    28 Apr 2026

    Episode 4: U.S. Travel Association President/ CEO Geoff Freeman

    In Episode 4 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron sit down with Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, for a conversation on leadership, industry growth, and where travel is headed next. Geoff shares perspective from leading one of the industry’s top advocacy organizations, including his work strengthening the industry’s voice in Washington and driving policies that support demand, workforce development, and long-term growth. Prior to U.S. Travel, he led the American Gaming Association and the Grocery Manufacturers Association, building a reputation for effective advocacy and coalition-building. In the episode, Geoff discusses leading at scale, aligning stakeholders across the travel ecosystem, and why investing in the next generation of leaders is critical. The conversation also touches on how innovation, including AI, is shaping the future of travel and destination marketing. Thanks to our sponsors: Tourism Economics, SearchWide Global, Longwoods International, and PCMA

13. 

    20 Mar 2026

    Episode 3: President/CEO NYC Tourism + Conventions Julie Coker

    In Episode 3 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron sit down with Julie Coker, President and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation on career growth and leadership. Julie shares her journey from serving as a hotel GM to becoming the CEO of multiple destination organizations, offering insight into the challenges and opportunities she encountered along the way. The episode also explores the importance of mentoring and investing in the next generation of leaders, the impact of her mother’s guidance, love, and wisdom in shaping both her personal and professional journey, and how AI may be used as a tool to help shape the future of the destination marketing space.Thanks as well to our sponsors: ⁠PCMA⁠, SearchWide Global⁠, ⁠Tourism Economics⁠,⁠ ⁠Longwoods International

14. 

    10 Feb 2026

    Episode 1: PCMA President/CEO Sherrif Karamat and PCMA Board Chair Kelly Ricker

    In the debut episode of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron sit down with PCMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat and PCMA Board Chair Kelly Ricker for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, growth, and the lessons that shaped their journeys to the top of the business events and tourism industry. Together, they share practical guidance, hard-earned insights, and perspectives on leading organizations through change. Our Guests: Sherrif Karamat, CAE, is President and Chief Executive Officer of PCMA, where he also serves as President of the PCMA Foundation and Publisher of Convene magazine. He leads PCMA’s global vision and growth strategy, advancing the business events industry as a driver of economic, social, and professional impact. Kelly Ricker is Chief Operating Officer of GTIA, the only vendor-neutral, non-profit trade association for the global IT channel, representing more than 2,000 member companies. She oversees education, research, events, and operations, bringing deep expertise in association leadership shaped by senior roles at the American Academy of Neurology and CompTIA. Thanks as well to our sponsors: ⁠ (https://searchwideglobal.com/)PCMA⁠⁠ (https://www.pcma.org/), Tourism Economics⁠ (https://www.tourismeconomics.com/),⁠ (https://www.pcma.org/)⁠Longwoods International (https://longwoods-intl.com/), SearchWide Global⁠⁠ (https://searchwideglobal.com/)

15. 

    10 Feb 2026

    Episode 2: President/CEO Visit Philadelphia Angela Val

    In Episode 2 of Love2Lead, Al and Aaron are joined by Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, for a candid conversation about leadership, growth, and career progression. Angela reflects on her journey from receptionist to CEO, sharing practical insight into navigating an organization, building credibility, and preparing for the C-suite. Our Guest: Angela Val leads Visit Philadelphia’s efforts to elevate the region’s image, grow visitation, and drive economic impact through leisure travel, bringing more than 20 years of experience in tourism marketing to the role. Thanks as well to our sponsors: SearchWide Global (https://searchwideglobal.com/), Tourism Economics (https://www.tourismeconomics.com/), PCMA (https://www.pcma.org/), Longwoods International (https://longwoods-intl.com/)

16. 

    2 Feb 2026

    Introducing Love2Lead with Al Hutchinson & Aaron Dante

    Love2Lead brings together Al Hutchinson, a veteran leader with 30 years of experience in destination marketing organizations, and award-winning podcast host Aaron Dante. Each episode explores what strong, effective leadership looks like in the tourism industry through conversations with accomplished leaders and professionals. The show breaks down core leadership principles, practical strategies, and real-life experiences that have shaped successful careers, offering listeners clear takeaways they can apply to their own leadership journeys.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.