Client IDs? Net vs Gross? Selling Yourself?

Client IDs? Net vs Gross? Selling Yourself?

Author: Host Agency Reviews March 20, 2026 Duration: 26:51

This week’s Friday 15, we're welcoming Samantha from Jus Adventures! Let’s have some fun, plus some questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us!

  1. I continue to see it recommended that we get copies of our client's ID's. However, I am unsure of a process to do this that is secure? Or does it need to be secure? Can they just text or email me a photo? I'd love your perspective on this. - Erin
  2. Can you talk about the practice of DMCs presenting quotes in gross vs net commission, and is it preferred or acceptable to request one over the other? - Carrie
  3. Love the podcast! I'm just over a year in as a part time agent and have been focusing on training (supplier and host agency training), building a website, and branding. Now I'm stuck on how to build a client base. I work full time in recruitment so I know that your close network isn't always going to become your client, but I've stalled out and need some inspiration. My focus is luxury leaning travellers interested in cruising with Virgin Voyages or going on safari. I have a great background in sales, event planning, dealing with ultra-high net worth clients, and I used to live in West Africa for 5 years. I know I'm well positioned to jump start this business but I feel a little lost on selling myself. Any help? - Stephanie

RESOURCES:

  1. https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software
  2. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company


Hosted by the team at Host Agency Reviews, this audio channel blends two distinct formats into one practical resource. The first is Travel Agent Chatter, a quarterly series of spotlight interviews that dive deep into the experiences of working travel advisors. These longer conversations explore the real stories behind the careers, covering the nuances of building a business, personal client triumphs, and the cultural insights gained from a life in travel. The companion series, Friday 15, operates on a completely different rhythm. Every week, a focused fifteen-minute episode tackles specific questions from the travel industry, offering direct advice and timely insights that are both concise and immediately useful. Together, this podcast creates a balanced mix of inspirational narrative and actionable strategy. Whether you're seeking motivation from peer journeys or need quick answers to pressing professional questions, the channel is designed to support the daily realities of travel entrepreneurs. It’s a resource that understands the industry's blend of passion and pragmatism, delivered through the authentic voices of those who are deeply embedded in this world. Tune in for thoughtful perspectives that are as varied and dynamic as the travel profession itself.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 356

Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15
Podcast Episodes
Travel with Small Children? How To Organize Digital Info? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:23
In episode 199, Steph and Shayna co-host with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week. Please join us! 1. What is your favorite place to travel with children under 5? ---Staci W.2…
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Duration: 29:58
In episode 198, Steph Lee co-hosts with a longtime friend of the Friday 15, April Swales of Uniglobe Travel Center. They’ve got two especially in-depth questions, so have a look and tune in Friday 12 pm CST! 1. Do you ha…
When to LLC? How To Be a Sub-Agent? Worried About Refunds! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:48
In episode 197, Steph Lee hosts and Andavo Travel is our sponsor. (Thanks, Andavo!) Here's a taste of the questions she'll cover! 1. At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is not…
System for Supplier Contacts? Go Independent? Thank You Gifts? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:13
In episode 196, our very own Mary Stein co-hosts with the one and only Jenn Lee of Vacation Planners! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week! 1. Do you have a good system for organizing all your travel BD contacts…
When to LLC? How to Deal with Failure? Which Course To Take? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:58
In episode 195, we have a HAR Team special with Shayna Zand and Rita Perez! Here are the questions they’ll cover in this week’s episode! At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is…
What CRM for Credit Cards? Too Many Hosts!! How to Assess Fees? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:53
In episode 192, Steph cohosts again with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here are the questions they’ll cover!1. ​​Hi I’m a new independent travel advisor just getting ramped up and which CRM is recommended for CC pay…