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What if growing a team isn’t about scaling faster, but scaling smarter? In this episode, Jordan Rush and Kim Hebert, who took over Explorateur Travel after Jennifer sold the agency, pull back the curtain on what it really takes to expand a team with intention. They break down how they prepare each new IC cohort, what onboarding looks like behind the scenes, and why a cohort-based model creates stronger consistency, accountability, and retention. You’ll also hear the honest realities of growth, including the time and profit tradeoffs of running a team, how they balance mentorship while still managing their own clients, and how they know when it’s truly the right time to expand again. If you’re considering growing your agency or wondering what it takes to support ICs well, this episode offers a refreshingly honest look at building a mentorship-driven model that lasts!

About Explorateur Travel’s Kim Hebert & Jordan Rush:

Kim Hebert stepped into ownership of Explorateur Travel in 2022, bringing a people-first leadership style shaped by her background in marketing, advertising, and travel design. After joining the agency as a Travel Designer in 2020, she quickly became known for her attention to detail and ability to turn client visions into seamless, highly personal itineraries. A Louisiana native, Kim is driven by connection and collaboration—values rooted in her time with Kappa Delta that now guide both Explorateur’s client experience and internal culture.

Jordan Rush also became co-owner in 2022, inspired by the agency’s mission to create thoughtful, one-of-a-kind travel experiences. With over a decade of experience in hotel sales and event planning, she brings a strong foundation in hospitality, relationship-building, and service excellence. Her Kappa Delta roots continue to shape her leadership, emphasizing community, purpose, and meaningful partnerships that support clients at every stage of their journey.

Today we will cover:

(02:30) Why Jordan and Kim chose a cohort-based model for growing a team
(12:45) What onboarding actually looks like behind the scenes
(22:30) What they look for when selecting new ICs
(30:50) How interviews are structured and what questions they ask
(34:00) The real cost of running a mentorship-based model
(45:50) How Jordan and Kim balance mentoring with client work

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180. Creating An IC Mentorship Program with Explorateur Travel

TIQUE Talks: The Business Podcast for Travel Advisors

180. Creating An IC Mentorship Program with Explorateur Travel