Season 2 Episode 6: A discussion about tourism and climate (with Rodney Payne)

In this episode of the Whistler Podcast, Mayor Jack Crompton and Cole Stefiuk are joined by Rodney Payne, CEO of Destination Think, whose purpose is to help ensure the tourism industry’s actions lead to a better future for everyone. 

Rodney begins by discussing how COVID-19 has changed tourism and the effects of the remote workplace on tourism reliant towns. They discuss the delicate balance of tourism and the role of community leaders in managing residents' values and the economy that tourism creates.  How does a destination ensure they have the right visitor with the right values? Rodney poses the question if more tourism is always better, and why do we want more tourists?  He states the importance of aligning resident and tourism values, including capacity, infrastructure and environment. Lastly, Rodney asks the question if climate serves tourism, and what are the risks for climate action or inaction for the tourism industry.