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Jason Elkins

jasone51.sg-host.com

jason@bigworldmadesmall.com

WhatsApp/Phone +1 480-939-4679
Location: Flexible | U.S. Citizen with active presence in Eastern Europe

Objective / Summary

Versatile and forward-thinking tourism professional with deep experience in luxury and adventure travel, B2B sales, and digital marketing. A U.S. citizen traveling full-time, with extensive experience across Latin America and the flexibility to work remotely, travel on assignment, or be on-site as needed. Known for building scalable systems, creating compelling content, and driving growth through strategic partnerships and brand development. Brings a strategic understanding of AI’s role in the travel industry, using emerging tools for content creation, podcast production, research, and creative problem-solving. Co-host of a podcast exploring AI’s impact on travel leadership and innovation. Thrives in cross-cultural environments and is passionate about crafting high-touch travel experiences that resonate with global audiences.

Key Skills & Certifications

Leadership & Strategy: Team Management, Sales Enablement, Business Development
Digital Marketing: Web Design, SEO, Google Ads, Email Automation, CRM Integrations
Communications: Public Speaking, Podcasting, Content Creation (Audio, Video & Written)
Certifications:

  • FAA Commercial Pilot (Hot Air Balloon)
  • PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver
  • Microsoft Certified Professional
  • Master Certified Negotiation Expert
  • Google Ads & HubSpot Digital Marketing Certifications
  • U.S. Army: Airborne, Pathfinder, and Air Assault

Professional Experience

Travel Industry Strategist, Digital Marketing Expert, Podcast Host
Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing (2023 – Present)
Licensed Real Estate Sales Professional
The Carin Nguyen Real Estate Network (2016 – 2023)
  • Marketed residential properties through multi-channel campaigns
  • Managed smooth transaction pipelines with consistent 5-star client satisfaction
  • Initiated outbound sales outreach via cold/warm call and email campaigns
  • Conducted strategy sessions to maximize conversion opportunities
Founder & Commercial Hot Air Balloon Pilot
Equinox Balloons (2010 – 2017)
  • Founded and operated a 5-star hot air balloon tour company
  • Managed flight operations, guest experience, and crew logistics
  • Provided ground and flight instruction for aspiring commercial balloon pilots
  • Designed a custom website with real-time booking and automated post-tour follow-up to encourage reviews and repeat business
  • Created memorable experiences that built strong referral networks
General Manager
Orvis International Travel – The Orvis Company (2005 – 2014)
  • Directed a luxury travel division focused on fly fishing and eco-adventure tourism
  • Achieved 325% revenue growth through brand partnerships and B2C sales
  • Managed global tour operations and led high-end group expeditions
  • Oversaw the Orvis Endorsed International Destination program, a B2B cooperative marketing initiative for international tour operators
  • Sold premium endorsement packages and doubled program size through strategic outreach and partner development
Fly Fishing and SCUBA Diving Resort Manager
Turneffe Flats Resort, Belize (2003 – 2004)
  • Managed daily operations at a remote luxury fly fishing and SCUBA diving resort in Belize
  • Led a diverse, cross-cultural team while fostering a culture of excellence in guest service
  • Navigated logistical challenges with resourcefulness and initiative in a remote island environment
  • Played a key role in driving revenue growth and enhancing the resort’s international reputation
  • Served a primarily North American and European guest base, delivering personalized, high-touch experiences

What Others Have Said

“Jason significantly increased our operational capacity and created systemized processes that will allow for at least a 2x increase in sales this year.”
— Daniel Buitrón Jaramillo, CEO & Co-Founder, COLOMBIA ECOTRAVEL

“Jason is an excellent mentor… he connects with the customer and creates loyalty. He performs equally well in the office and in the field — which is rare.”
— Dave Parker, former director of Orvis Travel

“I really appreciate the time Jason took to get to know what’s behind a LinkedIn profile or a job title — to learn more about me and make this such an enjoyable conversation. We laughed so much, time ran short, and I made a new friend.”
— Dalia Gibu, Vice President, Abercrombie & Kent

Learn More & Connect with Me

Website: jasone51.sg-host.com
Podcast: bigworldmadesmall.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jason-elkins-8b655614
Facebook: facebook.com/jason.elkins.376
Instagram: instagram.com/bigworldmadesmall

If my experience sounds like the right fit, let’s connect. Grab a time that works for you at: jasone51.sg-host.com/meeting