Forward Motion
Forward Motion is the official podcast of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO). Host Andrew Siegwart interviews industry leaders, policymakers, and business owners about trends, challenges, and opportunities in Ontario's tourism sector. Topics include sustainability, workforce development, marketing, accessibility, and government policies. The podcast aims to inspire collaboration and celebrate the resilience of Ontario's tourism industry.
Episodes
Beyond the Tracks: Alto, Tourism and Economic Growth
In this episode of Forward Motion, host Andrew Siegwart sits down with Peter Paz, Senior Director of Public and Government Relations at Alto, to explore what Canada’s first high-speed rail project could mean for Ontario’s tourism industry, communities and economy.Alto is developing a high-speed rail corridor connecting Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Laval, Montréal, Trois-Rivières and Qué
More Than a Race: How the Honda Indy is Powering Markham’s Tourism Future
In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart is joined by Vinay Sharda, President of Destination Markham Corporation; Councillor Andrew Keyes, City of Markham Councillor and Chair of Destination Markham; and Jeff Atkinson of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, President of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham.Together, they explore why moving the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy from Toronto’s Exhib
Keeping Tourism Human in the Age of AI, with Mike Jacobs
Artificial intelligence is transforming tourism, but it is only one part of a much larger technological shift.In this episode of Forward Motion, Andrew Siegwart is joined by Mike Jacobs, founder of The New Business and Whereabouts, to explore how emerging technology is changing the way tourism businesses operate, market themselves and connect with visitors.The conversation moves beyond th
Salsa, Strategy, & Community: Growing a Multi‑City Festival Brand
Our hearts are with everyone affected by the tragic events at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival.We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the injuries sustained, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those affected. Our thoughts are also with everyone in attendance, the festival organizers, volunteers, performers, vendors, and the first
Les Éléphants in Ontario: Cote d’Ivoire’s World Cup Journey and Diaspora Pride
As Ontario embraces being one of the hosts for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion continues its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Viviane Sinan, Vice President of ACIRT (Association de la Communauté Ivoirienne de la Région de
Germany: Beer, Football, and the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Boom
As Ontario prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion continues its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Anne Wagner-Mitchell, Consul General of Germany in Toronto, about the deep ties between Germany a
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Culture, Community, and the Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ with Daniela Colic
As Ontario prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Forward Motion launches its Road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ series, celebrating the countries, cultures, and communities that will be part of the tournament experience in Toronto.In this episode, host Andrew Siegwart speaks with Daniela Colic, Chargé d’affaires, a.i. for Bosnia and Herzegovina in Canada, about the deep ties b
Destination Canada’s Playbook for Investment-Ready Tourism
In this episode of Forward Motion, Andrew Siegwart sits down with Johanna Griggs to explore the growing connection between tourism, economic development, and investment attraction.Drawing from her experience across municipal, provincial, and national tourism development, Johanna shares how tourism has evolved far beyond traditional marketing into a powerful tool for community regeneration
Shore Lunch, Shared Lakes, Unequal Playing Field: Fixing Cross-Border Angling Policy
This episode of Forward Motion dives into a growing challenge we've been hearing more and more about from operators in Northwestern Ontario. Andrew speaks with Laurie Marcil, Executive Director of the Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association, about how U.S. angling guides are increasingly bringing clients deep into Canadian border waters—profiting from a “C
Ontario’s Lakes Are Changing. Here’s What It Means for Tourism
Water is Ontario's most powerful tourism asset. Our 250,000 lakes drive billions in visitor spending every year — from angling and paddling to cottage country getaways and waterfront dining. But those lakes are changing in ways that are already affecting visitor experience, destination appeal, and long-term business viability. In this Earth Day episode, Andrew Siegwart speaks with Dr. Joh
Beyond the Matches: FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Ontario’s Opportunity
Andrew Siegwart explores what the FIFA World Cup 2026™ means for Ontario’s tourism industry and how destinations can leverage this once-in-a-generation opportunity.Andrew is joined by Alex Mazanik of Context Research Group’s (CRG), who shares insights from a market intelligence study commissioned by Destination Ontario. Based on a survey of 1,400 likely FIFA World Cup 2026™ visitors, the
Ontario Budget 2026: Tourism’s Role in Ontario’s Economy
This week’s episode of Forward Motion: The Ontario Tourism Podcast is a little different. Instead of an interview, host Andrew Siegwart shares some personal reflections as Ontario prepares to release its 2026 provincial budget, and what the tourism industry should be watching for.Drawing on conversations with industry leaders, recent government announcements, and the priorities
Elevating Black Tourism Experiences in Ontario
Andrew Siegwart explores how Black tourism in Ontario is evolving from a niche offering to an essential driver of both culture and the visitor economy.Guests Dionne Bishop (Events by Dionne Inc.) and Emma Rowley (Ontario’s Southwest) share their career paths in tourism and discuss how the Black Tourism Working Group organically grew into the Black Tourism Alliance of Ontario.They highligh
Kelly Jackson on Toronto’s Visitor Boom, FIFA World Cup 2026™, and the Next Decade of Growth
Toronto’s visitor economy is the focus of this week's guest, Kelly Jackson, Vice President of Destination Development at Destination Toronto. Listen in, while they unpack Toronto’s record-breaking 2025: 28.2 million visitors, $9.1 billion in visitor spending, and nearly $13.5 billion in total economic impact. Kelly explains how Toronto’s inclusive,
Danny Murrell and The Story Behind Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day
We explore the origins and impact of Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day in Ontario through the story of Danny Murrell, founder and CEO of Harrison Staffing. Host Andrew Siegwart traces Danny’s journey from an international student at the University of Toronto—who stumbled into catering to pay the bills—to a purpose-driven entrepreneur building a people-first sta
Ready for What’s Next: Sebastian Benedict on the Future of Canada’s Tourism Industry
Canada’s tourism industry is emerging from recovery into a high-stakes transition, and TIAC President & CEO Sebastian Benedict argues that the sector is both underestimated and ready. In conversation with Andrew Siegwart, he traces his path from political staffer and lobbyist to national tourism advocate, explaining how listening to operators across Canada has shap
Special Edition: Andrew Interviewed
Andrew Siegwart, President of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario is interviewed by Samuel Miele and discussed the development of a five-year tourism strategy to address regional needs and economic conditions. The strategy includes forming strategic working groups and an alignment council to prioritize initiatives and measure success. Andrew emphasized the importance of diversifyi
Tomorrow's Tourism Talent: Challenges and Opportunities in Education
Dr. Chris Gibbs from Toronto Metropolitan University joins Andrew to explore the critical challenges facing tourism talent development. Drawing from his extensive experience, Gibbs discusses the evolving expectations of students, who are increasingly motivated by financial stability and career growth opportunities.The conversation covers the shifting dynamics of workforce recruitment, hig
Plate, Policy, and Progress: Inside Canada’s Restaurant Landscape with Kelly Higginson
Our guest is Kelly Higginson who provides an in-depth look at Canada’s restaurant industry, revealing the sector’s complex challenges and innovative solutions. Drawing from her extensive experience, Higginson discusses the ongoing struggles with rising input costs, workforce shortages, and the impact of economic pressures on restaurants nationwide.The conversation explores critical issues
Burlington's Bold Move: Merging Tourism and Economic Development
Andrew Siegwart is joined by Claire Green from Tourism Burlington to explore the city's innovative approach to destination development. Green shares how Burlington has merged its economic development and tourism departments into a single organization, creating a unified strategy for growth. The discussion highlights the city's new destination stewardship plan, which focuses on marketing,
Future Leader Award Recipient Libby Worden: Live with the Tourism Champions
In this special live episode, join Ontario tourism leaders Brad Kozak, Trevor Norris and Libby Warden at a live panel moderated by Abdullah el Safadi of Air Canada, where they discuss the evolving landscape of tourism in the province. Key themes include the importance of authentic experiences over technology-driven tourism, the value of storytelling and community connection, and the need
Tourism Champions, Brad Kozak & Trevor Norris are Reimagining Ontario's Travel Experiences
In this two-part episode, Andrew Siegwart celebrates two 2025 Tourism Champions of the Year: Brad Kozak and Trevor Norris, who are transforming Ontario's tourism landscape through innovative approaches.Brad Kozak reveals how his golf tourism platform connects over 50 golf courses and 25 accommodation partners across nine tourism regions, creating a seamless booking and marketing experienc
Protecting Destinations: Public Safety in Ontario's Tourism Industry
Andrew Siegwart leads a powerful discussion on public safety in Ontario's tourism industry. Joined by Deputy Chief Nick Milanovic, Robert Serpe, and Sumeeta Kohli, the conversation delves into critical issues like human trafficking, active shooter preparedness, and community protection.The panel explores the evolving landscape of public safety, emphasizing the importance of proactive meas
Indigenous Tourism: Stories, Collaboration, and the Path Forward
Andrew Siegwart is joined by Indigenous tourism leaders Kevin Eshkawkogan (Indigenous Tourism Ontario), Henry Tso (Indigenous Tourism British Columbia), and Robert Bernard (Nova Scotia Indigenous Enterprise Network) to discuss the transformative impact of Indigenous tourism in Canada.Kevin, Henry and Robert share their personal journeys into the industry and reflect on how Indigenous tour
The Better Way Alliance is Building Ethical Employment and Sustainable Practices
Andrew Siegwart hosts a discussion with Aaron Binder and Liliana Locke of the Better Way Alliance (BWA) on building a fairer, more resilient business ecosystem in Ontario. They explore ethical employment and sustainable business practices. Aaron shares his journey from tour guiding to leading the BWA, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, narrative, and food in tours. Liliana highlight
Cruising Ontario: How Le Boat is Redefining Cottage Country
Lisa McLean, Country Manager of Le Boat Canada, talks to Andrew Siegwart about the company’s rapid growth and the increasing popularity of boat-based vacations in Ontario. Lisa shares her career journey in tourism and explains how Le Boat offers a unique, accessible luxury experience on Ontario’s historic waterways, including the Rideau Canal and Trent-Severn Waterway. She highlights shif
Resilience and Opportunity: Inside Ontario’s New Tourism Strategy
Andrew Siegwart welcomes Rebecca MacKenzie and Michael Crockatt, outgoing and incoming chairs of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario’s board. Together, they reflect on their personal journeys in tourism and discuss the launch of Ontario’s new tourism strategy—a collaborative, industry-led roadmap designed to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability across the province. The co
Preserving Ontario’s Past: Heritage, Identity & Opportunity
We spotlight the vital role heritage preservation plays in Ontario’s tourism and community development landscape. Joined by leading experts from the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO), we explore how protecting our historic buildings goes far beyond aesthetics — it’s about identity, sustainability, and economic opportunity.From the environmental benefits of adaptive reuse to the u
Guelph's Vision: Innovation, Tourism, and Community Leadership with Mayor Cam Guthrie
Andrew Siegwart interviews Mayor Cam Guthrie of Guelph, Ontario, exploring how the city is setting new standards for mid-sized urban centres. Mayor Guthrie shares his personal journey into municipal leadership and highlights Guelph’s reputation as a sustainability leader and economic innovator. The discussion covers the city’s diverse economy, including its strong agri-food and automotive
Michelin Stars and Mega Venues: Shaping Ontario’s Tourism Future
Nick Di Donato, President and CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group, joins Andrew Siegwart to reflect on his journey in the hospitality world. From earning Canada's very first Michelin star to putting Toronto on the global culinary map, Nick shares what it takes to stay at the top in an ever-changing industry. He opens up about the challenges of rising costs—especially with increased minimum
The Traveler’s Pulse: Understanding Ontario’s Tourism Moment
Andrew Siegwart explores the current state of tourism through a conversation with William Schatten and Alex Mazanik from Context Research Group. The researchers dive into traveler sentiments across Ontario, the United States, and Europe, revealing how geopolitical tensions, economic pressures, and changing consumer priorities are reshaping travel decisions.The duo revealed insights, condu
Beyond the Gold: Kirkland Lake's Economic Renaissance
Andrew Siegwart interviews Kirkland Lake Mayor Stacy Wight and Economic Development Director Dan Laverdure the town's transformative economic strategy. Kirkland Lake, a historic mining community of about 8,500 people, is reimagining its future by diversifying its economy and revitalizing tourism. The municipality is developing a five-year tourism plan that leverages its rich mining herita
We Stand Together: Inside Destination Ontario’s Bold New Campaign
Andrew Siegwart speaks with Lauchlan Rogers, Chief Marketing Officer at Destination Ontario, about his journey from academia to leading the province’s tourism marketing strategy. Rogers shares how his early studies in anthropology, human geography, and GIS led him into digital strategy roles and eventually to Destination Ontario, where he advanced from social media advisor to CMO. He refl
Tobermory's Tourism Treasure: Ashley Salen's Blue Heron Adventures
Andrew Siegwart sits down with Ashley Salem, operator of Blue Heron Cruises and co-owner of Sweetwater Bay in Tobermory, Ontario. Ashley shares her deep-rooted connection to the region, having spent summers in the area since childhood and working in tourism since 1999.Blue Heron Cruises offers glass-bottom boat tours, sunset cruises, and a new diving and snorkeling experience in the Fatho
Playcations and Partnerships: Inside Horseshoe Valley's Resort Strategy
Sarah Tyler is the Marketing Manager at Horseshoe Valley Resort. She shares her love for travel from a young age, recalling creating Lego airports, to becoming a marketing professional, highlighting her background in communications and passion for hospitality.Horseshoe Valley Resort, founded in 1962, has evolved into a four-season destination offering skiing, mountain biking, golf, and li
Queer Commerce, Global Markets: Darrell Schuurman's Vision for Inclusive Business
In this episode of Forward Motion, host Andrew Siegwart interviews Darrell Schuurman, CEO of the CGLCC (Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce), exploring his journey from Alberta's tourism industry to leading a national organization supporting queer-owned businesses. Schuurman discusses the challenges facing the LGBTQI+ community amid recent anti-diversity movements in the US and Canada,
Personalized, Immersive, and Sustainable: The Evolution of Ontario’s Tourism Attractions!
Troy Young, President and CEO of Attractions Ontario, shared his career journey, starting from his early days at Canada's Wonderland and evolving through various roles, including owning a local newspaper and serving on municipal council. He emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and being introspective. Young discussed the evolving nature of attractions, highlighting trends li
Megan Knott: The All Encompassing DMO, Driving High Impact Economic Growth
Megan Knott, CEO of Tourism Kingston, discusses the dynamic and resilient tourism industry, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships and the global reach of tourism. Kingston's unique brand, influenced by its history, nature, and cultural icons like The Tragically Hip, attracts 3 million visitors annually, contributing over $500 million to the economy. Knott highlights Kingsto
Andrew Siegwart & Madison Simmons on the Ontario Election's Impact on Tourism
This episode features Andrew Siegwart and Madison Simmons from the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) focused on the recent provincial election and the future of Ontario's tourism industry. Premier Doug Ford secured a third consecutive majority, with the election highlighting economic concerns and trade relations with the US as key priorities.TIAO launched a pre-election campa
Victoria Clarke: Reimagining Tourism in Mississauga
Victoria Clarke emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and being adaptable. She joined Visit Mississauga during the pandemic, seeing it as a chance to build a new destination marketing organization from scratch. Her approach focuses on innovative, bold marketing strategies that challenge traditional tourism boundaries.Key initiatives include events like the Jackalope Festival
Introducing: Forward Motion
Welcome to Forward Motion - a show emanating from the offices of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario.The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is recognized by government as the voice of tourism. We advocate the importance of tourism as an economic driver and job creator in order to serve the interests of Ontario's diverse tourism industry and business community. Joi
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