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Navigating Tourism Challenges in Chicago with Choose Chicago's New CEO, Kristen Reynolds

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Manage episode 484218795 series 2711804
Content provided by Chicago Sun-Times. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Chicago Sun-Times or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

In this episode, Fran Spielman sits down with Kristen Reynolds, the new President and CEO of Choose Chicago. They discuss Reynolds' transition from Discover Long Island to leading Chicago's convention and tourism efforts. The conversation addresses the impact of recent world events on tourism, including a tragic incident in Washington DC and former President Trump's tariffs affecting Canadian tourism. Despite these challenges, Reynolds highlights Chicago's recent record-breaking hotel occupancy and the city's strong reliance on domestic visitation. She emphasizes the need for increased investment in marketing Chicago internationally and suggests leveraging social media and tech innovations. The discussion also covers recovery strategies post-COVID, local staycation initiatives, and a controversial tourism improvement district proposal to boost Choose Chicago’s budget. Reynolds outlines her vision for maintaining momentum amid economic uncertainties and enhancing Chicago’s appeal through diversified, high-return events.

  continue reading

317 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 484218795 series 2711804
Content provided by Chicago Sun-Times. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Chicago Sun-Times or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

In this episode, Fran Spielman sits down with Kristen Reynolds, the new President and CEO of Choose Chicago. They discuss Reynolds' transition from Discover Long Island to leading Chicago's convention and tourism efforts. The conversation addresses the impact of recent world events on tourism, including a tragic incident in Washington DC and former President Trump's tariffs affecting Canadian tourism. Despite these challenges, Reynolds highlights Chicago's recent record-breaking hotel occupancy and the city's strong reliance on domestic visitation. She emphasizes the need for increased investment in marketing Chicago internationally and suggests leveraging social media and tech innovations. The discussion also covers recovery strategies post-COVID, local staycation initiatives, and a controversial tourism improvement district proposal to boost Choose Chicago’s budget. Reynolds outlines her vision for maintaining momentum amid economic uncertainties and enhancing Chicago’s appeal through diversified, high-return events.

  continue reading

317 episodes

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