Building Connection Through Travel and Leadership

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE sits down with Erika Boyd, president & CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, for a conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the unexpected paths that often lead people into the association world. Boyd reflects on her “fall-in” journey into associations after responding to a newspaper ad, and how her career evolved from communications and advocacy into executive leadership, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating her transition into the CEO role. Along the way, she shares lessons learned from mentors and contrasting leadership styles, emphasizing the importance of empowering teams, trusting employees, and supporting professional growth opportunities. The conversation also explores the broader impact of travel and tourism as both a storytelling industry and a major economic driver that touches countless connected sectors. Boyd discusses how tourism often serves as an early indicator of consumer sentiment and why authentic, in-person experiences continue to matter in both travel and associations. Steven and Erika also highlight the upcoming LeadHERship Live event, taking place June 9–10 in The Woodlands, a joint initiative designed to inspire, connect, and support women leaders across the travel and association communities.

This episode is sponsored by Visit Lubbock. 

Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings.