Ep. 87 - Carol Chaplin - Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority

The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with another conversation exploring the people, places, and ideas shaping life around Lake Tahoe. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway are back behind the mic with the latest stories from the basin before sitting down with one of the region's most influential leaders. This episode features Carol Chaplin, President and CEO of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority (Visit Lake Tahoe), whose leadership has helped shape South Shore's tourism industry for nearly two decades. From the launch of destination marketing initiatives like the "Awe and Then Some" campaign to navigating wildfire recovery, the COVID-19 pandemic, and changing travel trends, Chaplin has played a central role in positioning Lake Tahoe as one of the world's premier outdoor recreation destinations. With more than 35 years in the Tahoe tourism industry, Chaplin's influence extends well beyond destination marketing. She has served in leadership roles with numerous regional organizations, including the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, Tahoe Chamber, Tahoe Prosperity Center, the Western Nevada Development District, the Regional Air Service Corporation, and the South Shore Transportation Management Association. She also serves on the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council, working alongside public agencies, nonprofits, and private industry to strengthen the region's economy while protecting the lake's natural resources and quality of life. Chaplin was also a driving force behind the development of the Tahoe Blue Event Center, a transformative project that has expanded South Lake Tahoe's ability to attract year-round events, entertainment, and sports tourism while creating new economic opportunities for the community. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, the conversation explores the evolution of Tahoe's visitor economy, the importance of destination stewardship, the impact of the Tahoe Blue Event Center, and what's next for tourism in one of America's most iconic mountain destinations. Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of the visionary leaders who has helped shape Tahoe's past, present, and future.