Sharyn Means
CEO
Doves Rest Cabins

“I’m Sharyn Means, CEO of Doves Rest Cabins. I am the creator of the Kia Oro customer service brand that develops a culture of excellence, powered by staff that can anticipate customer needs, exceed expectations, create goodwill and make it all feel seamless.”

“Born and raised on the remote Island of New Zealand, I learned at a young age to stand on my own two feet, how to do things myself, or find an alternative solution to the issue. My entire career has been in project management, overlapping into hospitality and customer service.”

“My passion for natural beauty led me to Palo Duro Canyon and Doves Rest Cabins where I excel at instilling a devotion to great service while providing tools, skills, freedom and rendering assistance to my staff to make our customers feel special. I am proud to represent my New Zealand heritage here in America by showing my true Kia Oro spirit that is grounded in respect, generosity, and kindness.”

“When I’m not crafting marketing plans, instilling shared values, celebrating great performances, leading by example, you can find me in the arms of my Texan husband, or eating a protein bar”.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins interviews Sharyn Means, CEO of Doves Rest Cabins, located on the rim of Palo Duro Canyon. Sharyn shares her unique journey from New Zealand to the U.S. and how her background in construction and project management has shaped her approach to hospitality. The conversation explores the various activities available at Doves Rest, the importance of creating a welcoming environment for guests, and the challenges of scaling a hospitality business. Sharyn emphasizes the significance of listening to guests and staff, the natural beauty of the area, and the philosophy of disconnecting to reconnect with nature and oneself.

takeaways

• Doves Rest Cabins offers a unique blend of luxury and nature.
• Sharyn's journey from New Zealand to the U.S. shaped her hospitality approach.
• The importance of logistics in running a hospitality business.
• Creating a welcoming environment is key to guest satisfaction.
• Listening to guests and staff is crucial for success.
• Nature and wildlife play a significant role in the guest experience.
• Training staff involves hands-on experience and personal interaction.
• Scaling a hospitality business requires strong processes and systems.
• Guests often have common concerns about amenities and services.
• Disconnecting from daily life allows for reconnection with nature and oneself.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Taisto Bussid | Europe

Mari-Liis Luha is the heart behind our partnerships. With a background in hospitality, sales, and team management, she leads the sales department at Taisto Bussid with care, clarity, and purpose.

As the main point of contact for travel agencies, tour operators, and corporate clients, Mari-Liis ensures every collaboration is smooth, efficient, and built on trust. She combines over a decade of experience in customer-facing roles with a deep understanding of the travel and transport industry to find solutions that truly work – whether it’s a simple airport pickup or a full-scale tour across Europe.

Passionate about both people and logistics, she’s a natural at keeping both clients and our internal teams aligned. Her proactive approach and attention to detail have earned her long-term client relationships and a reputation for getting things done with a smile.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Mari-Liis Luha, the sales director of Taisto Bus Company in Estonia. They discuss Mari-Liis' journey in the tourism industry, her experiences growing up in Estonia during the Soviet era, and the significant changes in the country's economy and travel landscape. Mari-Liis shares insights into the evolution of travel, the importance of flexibility in the tourism business, and her passion for her job. The conversation also touches on the balance between work and family life, as well as advice for those looking to enter the tourism industry.

takeaways

• Mari-Liis Luha has been with Taisto Bus Company for nearly 25 years.
• Estonia has undergone significant economic transformation since gaining independence.
• Traveling by bus was popular in Estonia due to financial constraints on air travel.
• Cultural exchanges with Germany during her youth sparked Mari's interest in languages.
• Flexibility is crucial in the tourism industry due to changing client needs.
• Mari-Liis' passion for her job keeps her motivated after many years in the industry.
• The importance of education was instilled in Mari from a young age.
• Estonia is becoming increasingly advanced in digital citizenship and business.
• Traveling with children requires adapting to their needs and rhythms.
• The tourism industry is dynamic, with new challenges arising regularly.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Co-Founder
A’qto Cycling

Nancy De Losa is the Co-Founder of A’qto Italian Cycling Tours, a boutique cycling tour company offering immersive experiences in Italy. With a background in brand, marketing, and entrepreneurship, Nancy blends her deep connection to Italy with her passion for people and travel. Since launching A’qto Cycling Tours with her husband Damian Hancock in 2015, she has curated unforgettable experiences that combine cycling, cultural exploration, and authentic Italian hospitality. Fluent in Italian and deeply attuned to the country’s traditions, Nancy ensures every guest, whether cycling or not, enjoys an enriching, personal journey through Italy. She is also dedicated to personal growth, mentoring women, and living with intention.

Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Nancy De Losa, co-founder of AQTO, a boutique cycling and adventure tour company based in Italy. Nancy shares her journey from Australia to Italy, her deep connection to her Italian heritage, and the unique experiences AQTO offers, including cycling, kayaking, and hiking tours. The conversation explores the distinction between tourism and hospitality, the impact of overtourism, and the importance of creating meaningful connections with local communities. Nancy emphasizes the significance of group dynamics, managing different skill levels, and the flexibility of the non-riding partner program, making AQTO tours accessible to a wider audience. The episode concludes with Nancy's favorite places in Italy and insights into planning an adventure in this beautiful country.

Takeaways

• AQTO offers unique cycling and adventure tours in Italy.
• Nancy has a deep connection to Italy through her heritage.
• The distinction between tourism and hospitality is crucial.
• Overtourism is a concern, highlighting the need for adventure.
• Creating unique experiences is a core value of AQTO.
• Group dynamics play a significant role in the tour experience.
• Managing different skill levels is essential for cycling tours.
• The non-riding partner program allows flexibility for guests.
• Engaging with local communities enhances the travel experience.
• Italy offers diverse experiences that cater to various interests.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.