Behind every thriving travel advisor is a mentor who believed in them first. In this episode, Rebecca Alessia, owner of Wonderology Luxury Travel Experiences and a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist for 2023 and 2024, joins Jennifer to talk all things mentorship. Rebecca shares how her own mentors helped shape her success, why she’s passionate about paying it forward, and what makes mentorship so valuable in today’s fast-growing travel industry.

You’ll hear her take on the difference between mentorship and paid coaching, how fresh perspectives from new advisors keep the industry evolving, and why building a collaborative, supportive community benefits everyone. This conversation is full of tips, inspiration, and encouragement to help you step into the role of mentor and guide the next wave of advisors.

About Rebecca Alesia:

Rebecca’s earliest memories of travel include gliding through Venice on a gondola and savoring gelato by the Trevi Fountain, sparking a passion that carried her to five continents before her 21st birthday. From trekking Jordan’s deserts by camel to encountering gorillas in Rwanda, she’s found wonder and connection in every corner of the globe. Together with her husband, Sal, she’s made travel a family priority, raising their son Charlie with a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and shared adventures. A former attorney and current member of the Oyster Bay Zoning Board, Rebecca brings that same advocacy and precision to her work as founder of Wanderology, a boutique agency recognized by Condé Nast Traveler and SmartFlyer for excellence in luxury travel design. Based on Long Island’s North Shore, she balances her career with yoga, crossword puzzles, and life with Sal, Charlie, and their three mischievous dogs.

wanderology.com

Today we will cover:

(01:40) Rebecca’s journey from lawyer to travel advisor
(03:45) Why mentorship matters
(10:45) Navigating fees, valuing your time, and setting clear expectations
(18:20) Building meaningful mentorship relationships
(21:45) Finding mentorship opportunities in your community
(23:45) Why new talent keeps the industry innovative and energized
(28:20) Mentorship vs. coaching
(33:40) Protecting your time while still making an impact
(36:35) How mentors and mentees both grow from the relationship

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144. How To Be A Mentor In A Competitive Industry with Rebecca Alesia

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