LeisureTalk launches a new summer series on July 9. In the podcast series, Richard Otten, Merlijn Pietersma, and Kim Elle van Ernst speak with entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators from the recreation sector. The episodes focus primarily on the societal significance of recreation, holidays, and hospitality.
New series of conversations from the recreation sector
Following the first summer series, LeisureTalk returns this summer with another series of conversations from the recreation sector. Over the past few months, podcast creators Richard Otten and Merlijn Pietersma traveled across the country to speak with entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators.
The episodes will be released weekly starting July 9 via the well-known podcast platforms and can be listened to for free via LeisureTalk.
The series was deliberately created for the summer period: on the road, on vacation, or during a quieter moment at work. As such, LeisureTalk does not focus on daily industry news, but on longer conversations with more room for background and reflection.
Recreation as more than relaxation
The summer series focuses on organizations that demonstrate that recreation can be more than a day out or a vacation. The conversations cover, among other things, how recreation contributes to sustainability, accessibility, well-being, and social value.
Richard Otten speaks with Erik van Dijk of Green Key about sustainability within the hospitality sector. Mila Emonds from Stichting Reis met je Hart also shares her perspective. This organization makes vacations possible for families who do not have the financial means to afford them themselves.
In addition, project leader Pim Loeff talks about De Vakantiebank, which makes holidays possible for Dutch people who would otherwise not be able to go on vacation.
Accessible vacationing
Another conversation is with Astrid Huitink, Managing Director of Bio Vakantieoord. That holiday park is designed for families with a child with multiple disabilities, so that they too can enjoy a carefree holiday.
These are relevant examples for the recreation sector. Accessibility, inclusion, and social engagement are increasingly becoming part of both the positioning and the business operations of recreation companies.
In doing so, the series aligns with a broader trend: recreation is judged not only on visitor numbers or overnight stays, but also on the significance it has for people and society.
Stories for sector professionals
LeisureTalk is keeping part of the line-up a secret for now. According to the creators, the approach is to tell stories that show a different side of the sector.
Richard Otten says about this: “Especially in the summer, you have a bit more time to really listen to a story. We spoke to people who, each in their own way, show that recreation is much more than a day out or a holiday. Ultimately, it is about people.”
For entrepreneurs, policymakers, DMOs, and industry stakeholders, the series can offer inspiration to take a broader view of the role of recreation. Not only as a leisure activity, but also as a means for recovery, social interaction, sustainability, and social participation.
More information
Source and more information: LeisureTalk