PODCAST · society
Kusa Cast
by Graeme Watson
KUSA CAST: Kusa Cast is an insightful and inspiring podcast for anyone in the tourism industry, hosted by Graeme Watson. Our episodes feature interviews with top leaders from around the world as we discuss the challenges faced during Covid and the innovative ways businesses are bouncing back. From business leaders to tour operators, we explore the diverse roles within the tourism industry and highlight the importance of positivity and collaboration in overcoming obstacles. Tune in to Kusa Cast to stay informed, motivated and equipped to navigate the tourism industry in this new era. ABOUT THE HOST: Graeme Watson is the founder of a UK-based tourism representation company, Kusa Connect, whi
Episodes
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Nomads, Networks & New Tech: Danny Waine from Travel Nomads
Recorded in March of 2025, on this episode of Kusa Cast host Graeme Watson sits down with Danny Waine, the founder of Travel Nomads and a seasoned leader in the travel industry. Danny shares his journey, reflecting on how his childhood passion for travel led him through a diverse career spanning...
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Beyond The Labels: Gabrielle Claiborne on Transforming Travel Through Acceptance and Inclusion
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson welcomes Gabrielle Claiborne, founder and CEO of Transformation Journeys Worldwide, to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the global travel industry. Gabrielle shares her powerful personal journey of authenticity and how it inspired...
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A Journey with the CEO of Travel Counsellors, Steve Byrne
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Steve Byrne, CEO of Travel Counsellors, to discuss the company's remarkable achievement of reaching £1 billion in revenue and their vision for the future. With over 20 years at the company, Steve shares the journey of how Travel...
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Reimagining African Travel: ATTA's Kgomotso Ramothea on Tourism's Next Frontier
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of Memberships at ATTA (African Travel and Tourism Association). After an impressive tenure at South African Tourism where she served as Acting Head and Marketing Communications Manager for the UK and Ireland...
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Charting New Horizons: TTG CEO Dan Pearce's Vision for Smarter, Better, Fairer Travel
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Dan Pearce, CEO of TTG Media, for an insightful journey through the world of travel journalism and industry resilience. Dan shares his fascinating career path, from aspiring actor to English teacher in Italy, before finding his true...
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Uniting Africa's Tourism: A Conversation with Jillian Blackbeard of Africa's Eden
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson interviews Jillian Blackbeard, the CEO and founder of Africa's Eden. Jillian is based in Gaborone and has an extensive background in tourism, having worked for Peermont Hotels, Botswana Tourism, and as the Africa director for the World Travel and...
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Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa: Navigating Tourism's New Era - Insights from the CEO of the TBCSA
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, the CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA). Tshifhiwa shares his extensive journey in the tourism industry, from his studies at the University of Johannesburg to his diverse roles in travel...
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Revitalising Southern Africa's MICE Industry: An Insider's Perspective with Brad Glenn
In this episode of Kusa Cast, we have a conversation with Brad Glenn, Managing Director of The Inside Edge, a DMC specialising in incentives in South Africa. Hosted by Graeme Watson, the episode delves into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) industry in Southern Africa. Brad...
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Tourism Triumphs and Trials: A Deep Dive with David Frost, the CEO of SATSA
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson interviews David Frost, the CEO of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA). The discussion revolves around the current state of tourism in South Africa, the challenges faced by the industry, and the efforts made to overcome these...
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Using Adventure to Raise Awareness for Elephant Conservation and Female Rangers
Holly Budge is an adventurer and the founder of How Many Elephants, a nonprofit organisation that raises awareness about the African elephant crisis. Through her travels and expeditions, Holly realised the power of adventure to raise funds and bring attention to environmental and social issues.…
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Access Africa: Bridging Travel Gaps with Claire Minchin - Vumbua Africa
Claire Minchin, co-founder of Vumbua Africa, joins Graeme Watson on Kusa Cast to discuss accessible travel in Africa. The podcast also feature input from Keith Johnston, co-founder of Vumbua Africa. Claire shares her personal experiences as a social worker and as a traveler with a daughter who...
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Turning Plastic Pollution into Purposeful Design
In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson had the privilege of interviewing Alexis Cronin, the co-founder of Dunia Designs. Dunia Designs is a remarkable company driven by a powerful mission inspired by the global plastic crisis. The company was born out of a shared concern between Alexis...
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The Advantages and Challenges of Full-Time Travel
Heather Markel, a full-time travel coach, joins the Kusa Cast to discuss her journey to becoming a digital nomad. She shares her experiences of leaving her corporate job and embracing a life of travel. Heather provides insights into the mindset, money, and mastery needed for a successful nomadic...
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Engaging with the Travellers and Content Creators for @wheretonextyall
Jordan Carlyle and Christen Puckett, travellers from the USA, share their journey of quitting their stable jobs and buying a one-way ticket to travel the world. They discuss how they started their trip by creating a shared Notes app to list the places they wanted to visit. They also talk about...
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A Conversation with Mark Young - The Perfections Group
Mark Young, co-founder of the Perfections Group, discusses his journey in the travel industry, from backpacking to starting a representation company. He shares his experience of being made redundant before COVID and how he adapted by taking on different jobs. Mark also talks about the resilience...
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A Conversation with Priscilla Plummer and Guests - Global Sojourns
In this episode of Kusa Cast, Graeme Watson interviews Priscilla Plummer, the founder of Global Sojourns, a responsible travel company that focuses on uplifting communities around wildlife areas. Priscilla shares her journey from working in small and startup businesses in the US to traveling to...
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A Conversation with Melissa Foley - All About Africa Consulting
In the latest episode of Kusa Cast, Graeme Watson sits down with Melissa Foley, the passionate founder of All About Africa Consulting. Melissa's mission is to promote social and environmental sustainability in the tourism industry throughout Africa, with a particular focus on ethical climbing on...
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A Conversation with Robyn Whaley - Off The Track Expeditions
In this episode of Kusa Cast, Graeme Watson interviews Robyn Whaley, the director of Off The Track Expeditions, a Zimbabwe-based tour operator specialising in tailor made and adventure travel to Zimbabwe. Robyn shares her experience and insights on how her business started and how it has grown…
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A Conversation with Stanley Edwards - Platypus Digital
In this podcast episode, Graeme Watson speaks with Stanley Edwards, director of Platypus Digital, about how virtual reality (VR) can be used as a marketing tool for tourism businesses. They stress the importance of focusing on content objectives when using VR, rather than just admiring the...
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A Conversation with Katy Lee - Feefo
Today's guest on Kusa Cast is Katy Lee, Senior Business Development at Feefo, a consumer insight business, who through their ratings and reviews technology help businesses collect, verified customer reviews and insights, allowing you to improve your products and customer experiences. Katy…
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A Conversation with Cathy Entwistle and Nick Fox - Val du Charron and Sibuya Game Reserve
The tourism industry in South Africa has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited help assistance to support struggling businesses. Despite the challenges, there is still a strong desire for travel to South Africa, particularly for wine tourism and safaris. In a recent…
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A Conversation with Grant Fowlds - Project Rhino
We hear from Grant Fowlds, a conservationist fighting to protect rhinos in Africa. He shares his experiences of both heart-wrenching losses and inspiring victories in the battle against poaching, and discusses the challenges faced by conservationists, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19...
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A Conversation with Zile de Kock - Marine Dynamics
Zile de Kock, executive marketing manager of Marine Dynamics, shares insights on how the tourism industry can adapt and survive during the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses the impact of the pandemic on Marine Dynamics and how they have cut costs, expanded to Saudi Arabia, and offered specials for...
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A Conversation with Ross Kennedy - Africa Albida Tourism
Ross Kennedy, CEO of Africa Albida Tourism, discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Victoria Falls region's tourism industry. Kennedy shares the tough business decisions that were necessary for survival, but also highlights the community outreach programs and focus on sustainable and...
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A Conversation with Andre du Toit - SATSA
We hear from Andre du Toit, a consultant to tourism players across Africa, about his two exciting projects that aim to provide peace of mind to travellers and minimise liability risk. He discusses the SECURA traveller app, which aggregates emergency response services for security or medical...
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A Conversation with Duncan Greenfield-Turk - Global Travel Moments
Duncan Greenfield-Turk, Chief Travel Designer at Global Travel Moments, shares his expertise on the importance of sustainable and inclusive travel. He addresses the need for the tourism industry to consider the impact of travel on the environment and local communities. Additionally, Duncan shares...
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A Conversation with Quintin Smith - Cape Adventure Brands
Quintin Smith, managing partner of Cape Adventure Brands, shares insights into the surge of adventure tourism in South Africa post-pandemic. He discusses the company's commitment to inclusion and accessibility, highlighting the popularity of e-biking as an activity that accommodates guests of...
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A Conversation with Cindy Muller - GOLD Restaurant
Cindy Muller, owner of South Africa's GOLD Restaurant, shares her experiences of running a restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cindy's determination to prioritise safety, care for her staff, and maintain the authenticity of her business offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by…
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A Conversation with Julie Cheetham - Weeva
Julie Cheetham, managing director and founding member of sustainability software platform Weeva, discusses how businesses in the tourism industry can become more sustainable. From understanding the importance of resourcing to learning tips on how to manage time efficiently, this podcast delves…
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A Conversation with Andrew Camp - Sun International
Andrew Camp, Group Manager of International Sales and Marketing at Sun International, shares his insights and tips on navigating the tourism industry. From managing customer expectations, restructuring teams, and focussing on sustainable development initiatives, Andrew provides valuable advice…
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A Conversation with Marion Renk-Rosenthal - International Production and Project Management
Explore the world of tourism with leaders from all corners of the globe. Join Graeme Watson and his guest, German-born traveller Marion Renk-Rosenthal, as they discuss the current climate of the travel industry, Marion's plans for future trips and how the travel industry is shifting towards more...
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A Conversation with Martin Hawke - Holibob
Senior Director of Partner Success at Holibob, Martin Hawke, shares his journey in the tourism industry and offers his insights on the challenges and opportunities in the attractions sector. Martin dives deep into the logistics of the industry, discussing the importance of technology, innovation...
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A Conversation with Sam Chatham - Somewhere SOUTH
Sam Chatham, the founder of Somewhere SOUTH, is a very experienced professional in the tourism industry. She began her career as an apprentice hairdresser, and then ended up taking a job as a chambermaid in a hotel. From there, she worked her way up in the food and beverage department, front of...
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A Conversation with Adele Mackenzie - Tourism Update
HOT OFF THE PRESS! Recorded earlier today, Adele Mackenzie of Tourism Update discussed many of the current stories in the tourism industry. We chose to release this podcast early as we discuss the latest stories and trends in the industry. To subscribe to Tourism Update, log onto...
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A Conversation with Chantal Potgieter - Themba Travel
Chantal Potgieter, the founder of Themba Travel, a UK-based travel company specialising in South African-inspired journeys, has been working hard to bring attention to the people and stories of South African communities. With the support of the Women in Tourism Cape Town chapter and Travel…
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A Conversation with Martina Barth - IGLTA
Martina Barth, Group Sales Manager of the Liz McGrath Collection, and Graeme Watson explore the world of hospitality and tourism discussing the impressive collection of five-star, boutique hotels in the Western Cape that Martina represents. From the ways in which the pandemic has impacted the...
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A Conversation with Paul de Waal - Wetu
Paul de Waal, founder of the itinerary building platform Wetu, dives deep into how the travel industry is being reimagined in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. You'll get the inside scoop on the latest trends and technologies in the travel industry, from AI, machine learning and GDPR compliance,...
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A Conversation with Rudi Wagenaar - On Demand Hospitality Solutions
South African entrepreneur Rudi Wagenaar, Founder of On Demand Hospitality Solutions, shares his journey from growing up in a family with limited exposure to luxury travel, to successfully building a career in the luxury hospitality industry. He talks about his experiences during the pandemic…
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A Conversation with Jacqui Reynolds - On Show Solutions
Jacqui Reynolds of On Show Solutions and Kusa Cast host, Graeme Watson, discuss the challenges and opportunities of the tourism industry in an insightful and engaging conversation. An organiser at heart, Jacqui thrives with the adrenaline of the highly-pressurised events industry. As co-owner of…
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A Conversation with Mandisa Magwaxaza - Formerly of SATSA
Mandisa Magwaxaza is the Founder of Molo Mhambi Relations, and she shares her inspiring story of how she started in the tourism industry and leveraged her experience to build her own successful enterprise. From her humble beginnings in a rural farming community to her current work in South…
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A Conversation with Kevin Watson - First Equity Group
Kevin Watson, the COO of First Equity Group and a director at SATIB, the tourism insurance brokers, reveals how businesses can navigate the challenges of the pandemic. Learn his tips on looking after staff, getting customer referrals, working smarter with technology, and staying motivated during...
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A Conversation with Olorato Ndlovu - House of Safari
Kusa Cast interviews Olorato Ndlovu, the Managing Director of House of Safari DMC. Listen as she speaks of her passion for the tourism industry, her ambition to start her own business and how it has grown, and the importance of supporting those who give back to the community. Learn about the...
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A Conversation with Craig Drysdale - Inspirations Travel & Tours
Craig Drysdale, director of Sales and Marketing at ITT Inspirations Travel and Tours, has been in the tourism industry for nearly 30 years and has seen the unique camaraderie and support the industry provides. Through his experience, Craig has also become a mentor to many in the industry and is…
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A Conversation with Kwakye Donkor - Africa Tourism Partners
Kwakye Donkor, the CEO of Africa Tourism Partners, shares his insights into the Africa tourism industry. In this engaging and informative interview, Donkor discusses his vision for a more competitive and innovative tourism sector, his initiatives to promote intra-Africa travel and the development...
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A Conversation with Monika Iuel - Wesgro
Welcome the first episode of Kusa Cast. In this episode of our podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Monika Iuel, a tourism industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in management roles in both the private sector and destination marketing. Monika brings a deep knowledge of tourism and the...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
KUSA CAST:
Kusa Cast is an insightful and inspiring podcast for anyone in the tourism industry, hosted by Graeme Watson.
Our episodes feature interviews with top leaders from around the world as we discuss the challenges faced during Covid and the innovative ways businesses are bouncing back. From business leaders to tour operators, we explore the diverse roles within the tourism industry and highlight the importance of positivity and collaboration in overcoming obstacles.
Tune in to Kusa Cast to stay informed, motivated and equipped to navigate the tourism industry in this new era.
ABOUT THE HOST:
Graeme Watson is the founder of a UK-based tourism representation company, Kusa Connect, whi
HOSTED BY
Graeme Watson
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Kusa Cast have?
Kusa Cast currently has 45 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Kusa Cast about?
KUSA CAST: Kusa Cast is an insightful and inspiring podcast for anyone in the tourism industry, hosted by Graeme Watson. Our episodes feature interviews with top leaders from around the world as we discuss the challenges faced during Covid and the innovative ways businesses are bouncing back. From...
How often does Kusa Cast release new episodes?
Kusa Cast has 45 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Kusa Cast?
You can listen to Kusa Cast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Kusa Cast?
Kusa Cast is created and hosted by Graeme Watson.
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