SPEAKERS
The CalTravel Summit features speakers who have been carefully curated to bring you the hard-hitting content you want—and need—to hear in today’s rapidly changing world of tourism.
You’ll get insights from top-rated economists, political analysts, industry leaders, and issue experts. And, of course, we’ll sprinkle in some inspiration too.
Below are just a few of the speakers you can expect to see on this year's stage. Check back later as more are announced.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
CAROLINE BETETA
President & CEO
Visit California
Topic: California Tourism Marketing
Despite headwinds, California’s tourism industry has remained strong and competitive. In her final CalTravel Summit keynote address, hear from Visit California President & CEO Caroline Beteta who will discuss the state of the industry, the opportunity to leverage the global spotlight in the coming years, and share an update on key marketing programs.
JEFFERSON FISHER
Attorney, Author & Podcast Host
Fisher Firm
Topic: Effective Communication
Jefferson Fisher—known as one of the most respected voices on communication and arguments in the world—will share insights that are both actionable and grounded in everyday experiences to help us become more articulate, confident, and persuasive in every conversation.
Erik Hansen
SVP & Head of Government Relations
U.S. Travel Association
Topic: Federal Tourism Advocacy
U.S. Travel SVP and Head of Government Relations Erik Hansen will share the organization’s priorities for 2026 and beyond, providing an in-depth look at its advocacy approach to inbound international tourism, domestic opportunities, and developing champions in Congress.
BEN NEMTIN
Author, Co-Founder
The Buried Life Movement
Topic: Making the Impossible Possible
In this practical guide to achieving the extraordinary, bestselling author Ben Nemtin reveals how embracing a growth mindset can help us break free from limitations and transform our biggest challenges into our greatest triumphs.
ADAM SACKS
President
Tourism Economics
Topic: Tourism’s Economic Outlook
Tourism Economics President Adam Sacks will provide the latest comprehensive analysis of travel trends and forecasts—on a global, national, and state level—offering organizations the timely insights needed to make better investment and policy decisions.
ESTEBAN VELASQUEZ
EVP, Members & Business Development
World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
Topic: Rebuilding International Travel
WTTC EVP of Members and Business Development Esteban Velasquez will present timely research on the state of international travel, forecast for the next 12 months, and what it means for the U.S. and California markets.
DR. HOBY WEDLER
Chemist, Sensory Expert & Entrepreneur
Tasting in the Dark
Topic: Awakening the Senses
Chemist, entrepreneur, and sensory expert Dr. Hoby Wedler—completely blind since birth—shows us how engaging all of our senses is a game-changing superpower that enriches experiences, enhances awareness, and breaks through barriers both personally and professionally.
ASHLEY ZAVALA
Political Director, Capitol Bureau Chief
KCRA 3
Topic: California’s Political Landscape
KCRA Political Director Ashley Zavala provides a fair and balanced analysis of California’s current political landscape, from the gubernatorial race, to the Legislature’s priorities, to the state budget, to the federal administration’s impact on state policymaking, and political journalism’s role in it all.
