Welcome to another insightful episode of the Dunwoody Dialogues! This time, we’re diving deep into the dynamic world of Georgia’s hospitality and tourism industry with two of the most influential figures leading the charge: Amanda Dyson Thornton, Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau (GACVB), and Chris Hardman, Director of Governmental Affairs and Membership at the Georgia Hotel and Lodging Association (GHLA).
If you’ve ever wondered how tourism drives economic growth or what challenges lie ahead for the hospitality industry, you’re in for a treat. Amanda and Chris bring a wealth of knowledge, humor, and passion to the table, giving you an insider’s look into the future of Georgia tourism and the vital legislative efforts shaping the industry.
Amanda’s Inspiring Journey: From orchestrating weddings to managing exclusive suites at the iconic Georgia Dome, Amanda’s career path has been anything but conventional. Discover how her diverse background in theater and event production has uniquely prepared her for her leadership role at GACVB, where she now spearheads initiatives to establish Georgia as a premier destination for travelers.
Chris’s Roots in Politics and Hospitality: Growing up in a family deeply involved in both politics and tourism, Chris brings a distinct perspective on how public policy shapes the hospitality sector. Hear how his journey from the Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) to GHLA has empowered him to champion the interests of hoteliers while tackling critical challenges like labor shortages and navigating complex legislative landscapes.
Discover why tourism stands as Georgia's second-largest economic driver and how recent policy victories, including a landmark court ruling on overtime regulations, are reshaping the industry landscape. Our guests dive deep into crucial topics like workforce development, groundbreaking human trafficking prevention initiatives, and the remarkable resurgence of Georgia's film industry. Learn why industry leaders are optimistic about 2025 despite economic headwinds, and hear firsthand how Georgia maintains its position as the number one state for business through smart regulatory practices.
As Amanda and Chris reveal, it’s not just about hotels or visitors - it’s about how the entire ecosystem works together. From economic development to tourism advocacy, their work is driving revenue and creating jobs across Georgia. Discover how GACVB and GHLA are collaborating to make Georgia a top destination for visitors while also supporting local communities.
Why This Episode is a Must-Watch
Whether you're a hospitality professional, a tourism advocate, or simply curious about the inner workings of Georgia’s economy, this episode offers invaluable insights. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how legislation, tourism, and economic development are intertwined, and how the decisions being made today will shape the future of Georgia’s hospitality industry.
Join us for this informative and entertaining conversation as we uncover the inner workings of Georgia’s hospitality and tourism industries, the legislation shaping the future, and why 2025 is set to be a pivotal year for growth. Whether you’re involved in hospitality, tourism, or just curious about what’s driving economic development in Georgia, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
🔗 Want to Learn More?
- Explore more about GACVB and their work in promoting Georgia tourism: gacvb.com
- Find out how GHLA is advocating for Georgia’s hotels: ghla.net
- And don’t forget to explore everything Dunwoody has to offer by visiting: discoverdunwoody.com
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🎥 Watch Now and discover how Georgia is positioning itself as a national leader in hospitality and tourism! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest episodes featuring top industry leaders.
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