Collaboration is becoming one of the most powerful tools in the meetings and events space as destination marketing organizations (DMOs) continue to evolve their priorities beyond solely leisure travel. Industry momentum is shifting toward partnership: more openness, more cooperation, and more collective growth.
On this episode of the Layover Live podcast, hosts discuss meeting sales and statewide partnerships — spotlighting how DMOs can work together rather than compete. Featuring insights from leaders involved in California’s unique tourism alliance model, the episode explores what’s possible when destinations align around shared goals.
Tune in for big ideas
- Collaboration beats competition: Rather than vying for the same meetings and conventions, destinations within a state can amplify their impact by working together and presenting a unified value proposition.
- California’s DMO alliance is working: The episode highlights what may be the only statewide tourism alliance of its kind, sparking ideas for how other states can build stronger inter-DMO partnerships.
- Meetings and events deserve focused strategy: Meeting sales require different thinking than leisure, so many destinations are investing more intentionally in this space.
- Shared storytelling drives stronger results: When DMOs collaborate, they can extend reach, pool resources, and tell a more compelling story to planners and organizations.
- Alignment between teams is essential: Success in the meetings and events space comes from tighter collaboration between DMO sales and marketing teams —ensuring strategy, messaging, and outreach are working in sync rather than in silos.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts
Join the conversation
The Layover Live podcast will continue to bring you real conversations with real tourism pros to spark real inspiration. Subscribe now to be first to know when the next episode is ready.
Subscribe now