KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Marlo Anderson
Amplifying the Awesome: Curiosity, Technology, and a Life Naturally Inspired
See the extraordinary hidden in every ordinary moment.
What if the smallest spark of inspiration could transform the way we see the world? In this visionary keynote, Marlo Anderson explores how curiosity and creativity, paired with the power of AI, can elevate stories, destinations, and experiences to new heights. Audiences will leave naturally inspired to think bigger, see differently, and harness both human imagination and technology to amplify the awesome in everything they do.
About Marlo: Marlo Anderson is the founder of National Day Calendar®, the #1 trending topic of all time, and was named by MSN as one of the Top 10 Influential Entrepreneurs to Follow in 2025. Known worldwide as the “Guru of Geek,” Marlo hosts popular radio and TV shows and has been featured on NBC Nightly News, Fox & Friends, Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, USA Today, and Time Magazine.
From his roots in North Dakota, Marlo proves that innovation knows no borders. He inspires audiences by blending human imagination with the possibilities of AI, showing how everyday moments can transform into extraordinary opportunities. His mission is simple yet powerful: Celebrate Every Day.
Anna Cook
Naturally Inspired Partnerships: Building Long-Term Connections with DMOs
The best partnerships don’t just happen — they grow. Too often, both creators and DMOs treat collaborations as one-and-done projects, missing out on the real magic that happens when you build something lasting.
In this Naturally Inspired session, Anna Cook of Stuck On The Go shares how she’s turned quick collaborations into long-term relationships that keep growing year after year. You’ll hear real stories from her own experiences, get ideas for creative ways to work together beyond blogs and social posts, and pick up tips for building genuine connections that benefit both sides. Walk away ready to plant the seeds for partnerships that thrive well beyond a single trip or campaign.
About Anna: Anna Cook is a full-time travel blogger and educator behind Stuck On The Go, where she has partnered with more than 30 destinations across the United States since 2022. She’s passionate about helping creators recognize their unique value and build authentic, mutually beneficial partnerships with DMOs. Anna has also shared her expertise as a speaker at Southern Travelers Explore and the Texas Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus.
Panel Discussion
Beyond the Brochure: Naturally Inspired Destination Guides That Tell Your Story
Crafting Authentic Destination Guides with Content Creators
Travelers today want more than a list of attractions — they want to feel the heartbeat of a place. That’s why destination guides are evolving from glossy brochures into meaningful storytelling tools that reflect the people and personality behind a community.
In this Naturally Inspired panel, Kerrie Kuiper and fellow destination pros share how DMOs and content creators are teaming up to craft guides that connect on a deeper level. You’ll see how authentic stories and creator collaborations are helping destinations like Fort Dodge, Sheboygan, and Fairfield breathe new life into their print and digital guides — and inspiring travelers to see their communities in a whole new way.