Leigh Barnes is president of the Americas for Intrepid Travel, a small-group tour operator that’s been in business since 1989. Once known as a “social Jedi,” Barnes says he came to the travel industry at the right time and with the right digital skill set. He’s been with Intrepid more than 16 years now, and he’s leading the brand’s expansion in North America.
On this episode of Humans of Travel, Barnes discusses the company’s mission to create positive change through sustainable and meaningful travel, and what that looks like in the U.S. specifically. Barnes also shares his pre-Intrepid path into digital marketing, a formative Everest Base Camp trek that reshaped his worldview and how travel trade sales continue to grow thanks to key partnerships and expanded sales support.
This episode is sponsored by Brendan Vacations.
Barnes has been with the company for more than 16 years.
Credit: 2026 TravelAge WestResources Mentioned in the Episode
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid’s Travel Agent Hub
Intrepid’s U.S. National Park Tours
Intrepid's Active-ism Trips
On TravelAge West: How — and Why — Intrepid Travel Is Working to Protect U.S. National Parks Right Now
On TravelAge West: Intrepid Announces New Partnership With REI
On TravelAge West: Intrepid’s Non-Profit Secures 501(3)(c) Status
About Your Host
Chelsee Lowe is Senior Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She’s an avid reader, writer, interviewer and traveler. Los Angeles is her home base.
TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala and the Napa Valley Leadership Forum.
About the Show
TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from notable authorities in the travel industry, high-profile executives, passionate explorers, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.
