In this heartfelt episode of On Deck With Avoya, Chris Greene, Director of Network Expansion at Avoya Travel, shines a spotlight on the professionals who bring travel dreams to life. In honor of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, this episode is full of gratitude, powerful interviews, and business-boosting tips meant to inspire and equip advisors across the Avoya Network.
Featured guests include:
• Erin Douglas, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at MSC Cruises USA.
• Erica Bodwell, Owner of EBA Travel LLC, an Independent Agency in the Avoya Network.
• Jamie Grau, Owner of Funscape Travel LLC, an Independent Agency in the Avoya Netowrk sharing insights from 20+ years in the business.
• Laura Burk, Director of Promotional Opportunities and Development at Avoya Travel, delivering her monthly professional development tips to help advisors refine their sales approach.
Executive Insider: Erin Douglas, MSC Cruises USA
Erin Douglas joined the show to celebrate the buzz around MSC’s newest ship, MSC World America. Designed with American travelers in mind, the ship merges European sophistication with U.S.-style comfort, offering features like Italy at Sea dining, Paxos Mediterranean Restaurant, and one of the largest MSC Yacht Clubs ever built. The ship also includes expanded family spaces and high-thrill attractions like a jaw-drop slide and cliffhanger swing.
With year-round Galveston sailings launching in 2025, a Port Canaveral debut, and Alaska sailings from Seattle in 2026, MSC is doubling down on its North American growth. Erin emphasized how important it is for Avoya advisors to experience the product first-hand –which is why MSC World America will host the 2025 Avoya Conference.
Independent Agency Success Story:Erica Bodwell, EBA Travel LLC
Erica Bodwell’s journey into the travel industry began with a single trip – one planned with the help of an advisor who would eventually become her mentor. That spark of inspiration turned into a full-fledged business built around authenticity, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others experience the joy of travel.
As the owner of EBA Travel LLC, Erica now serves a wide variety of clients, from solo adventurers to multi-gen families, with a focus on river and ocean cruising. She credits Avoya’s technology, Live Leads, and community support as foundational to her success, and says attending Avoya Conferences has been among her most valuable tools for growth. Her best advice for new advisors? Lead with passion, back it up with systems, and treat your agency like a business from the very beginning.
Affiliate Spotlight: Jamie Grau, Funscape Travel LLC
With roots at Walt Disney Travel Company and a deep love for cruising, Jamie Grau has grown Funscape Travel into a well-rounded, high-value agency. Specializing in everything from river to expedition cruises, Jamie believes consumers are looking for someone who’s honest, informed, and service-oriented – and that’s exactly what he delivers.
What sets his agency apart with the help of Avoya?
• Access to exclusive pricing and bonus offers.
• Avoya’s technology, which allows him to search and quote cruises in seconds.
• A network of genuine people – from BDMs to fellow advisors – who share and support each other.
• A Shared Success model that rewards collaboration and transparency.
Secrets to Success: Laura Burk’s Growth Strategies
Laura Burk offered a powerful reminder: Travel Advisor Appreciation Month isn’t just about free perks – it’s about progress. She urged advisors to embrace May as a moment to reset and reinvest in their professional journey.
Advisors were encouraged to:
• Reconnect with former clients through personalized outreach.
• Take advantage of supplier incentives to enhance packages.
• Attend webinars and industry events to sharpen skills.
• Lean into word-of-mouth and social proof to market their value.
• Focus on long-term relationship building with clients and peers.
Final Thoughts: A Bright Future for Advisors
This month’s episode highlights exactly why the future of travel advising is bright – and why the Avoya Network is the place to build that future. Between MSC’s explosive growth, Erica and Jamie’s inspiring paths, and Laura’s actionable advice, there’s no shortage of opportunity.
If you're inspired by what you've seen and want to explore how the Avoya Network can support your travel business goals, now is the time to take action. Fill out the form below to learn more about joining the Avoya Network and discover how our award-winning platform, lead generation program, and industry partnerships can help you thrive. Let's make your travel business dreams a reality!
