There exists a shocking lack of awareness of the power of DMOs to effectively communicate the brand essence of a place to attract not just visitors, but investors, future residents and worldwide awareness and appreciation. This position paper suggests a different path forward.

In the Summer of 2020, amidst the protests for Racial Justice and Equity spawned by the murders of far too many Black Americans. Mike Gamble and Bill Geist agreed that many of the most challenged Boards were the ones that lacked diversity; that didn’t mirror their communities. These are our suggestions…

Hard to believe that it’s been over 10 years since DMOproz celebrated its 20th Anniversary. On that occasion, we (with the help of our designer Clay Altman) developed 20 imperatives for Destination Marketing professionals. Fascinating to see how many still apply today.

Bill Geist shares his thoughts on how Destination Marketing impacts a Community's Quality of Life by inspiring more than just a visit. This clip is from the Destinations on the Left Virtual Summit from December, 2019.

The infamous Maura Gast speech, “It all starts with a visit…” from the 2009 Annual Convention in Atlanta. This is where it all began as, with those words, Maura changed forever the way we view the broader mandate of Destination Marketing and Leadership.

Bill Geist's rebuttal during the DMAI15 Great Debates to the proposition that Destination Marketing Organizations would be extinct in 2025.

While one would certainly think that those that lead DMOs would qualify for the top spot because of their sales and marketing chops...it's their political prowess that is needed for today's DMO.

Destination Marketing Organizations generally do a pretty sensational job representing their communities while the sun is up. But, according to Bill Geist, after dark is another story…and a huge opportunity for DMOs.

Author, Destination Marketeer and Raconteur Rick Antonson explains the concept of Cathedral Thinking. Those in the Destination Marketing field should consider his thoughts carefully as they attempt to influence the future.

While some think it's all about the overnight stay, Bill Geist tells community leaders at the Texas Municipal League that snaring day trippers is just as important in building a lifetime visitor.

Michigan understands the critical linkage between Tourism and Economic Development. At the 2013 Texas Municipal League Convention, Bill Geist connects the dots for their community leaders.

Many people don't realize that the diners at the next table or those standing next to them at a retailer’s check-out line are visitors to the area. At the 2011 Fargo-Moorhead CVB Annual Luncheon, Bill Geist recounts a story from his days at the Greater Madison CVB that shows how invisible the Tourism Industry can often be.