Conversations with Rebecca Smiley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Smiley.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/06/28-year-old-quit-her-job-as-a-college-counselor-to-become-a-travel-agentshes-on-track-to-earn-100k-this-year.html?&qsearchterm=rebecca%20smiley

Honestly, this article gives a better overview than I probably could briefly haha! Basically I started in higher edu, working in some of the NKY schools. I didn’t love my job, and like many, COVID made me realize that. I met someone in travel at a wedding, and quit my job shortly after. I dove in head first to my own travel business and never looked back!

It’s been almost 5 years now, and I’ve helped over 1,110 people with their travels. Although my clients live all over the US, most of them are from Greater Cincinnati, or have some ties to the area.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think any entrepreneurial venture has its hiccups. Working for yourself and from home are both weird experiences/transitions!

Also the changes in the economy/cost of living have meant that not everyone can afford vacations like they used to… this has made a need for some creativity with people’s itineraries. It has also increased the amount of last minute bookings. These things have made me have to pivot on my process a bit, but adaptability is part of being a businessowner. I try to learn and grow with my clients!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a travel advisor and the creator/owner of Smiley Travel. I work from home in the Greater Cincinnati area and have owned my business for almost 5 years now.

I plan a lot of trips outside of the continental US, but I don’t have a specific niche beyond that. Lots of international and Alaska/Hawaii! I have done destination weddings, hosted group trips, family vacations, honeymoons and so much more.

Only 19% of travel advisors are under the age of 40, and I just turned 30! I think my young age gives me an edge in the industry. I know what’s cool, trendy, etc. I know how to get the most up to date info for my clients. This is great for honeymooners, especially. I know what the modern traveler is looking for. Plus if a client is older I can sit with them and help with apps or various tech they may need in travel nowadays.

I think I am most proud of the fact that my business name (and last name) is synonymous with my client experience. People love working with me, because I am friendly and provide the best possible customer service. And you can tell by all of my positive reviews and referrals!

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
You caught me at a tough time… my grandmother is in the ICU right now, and it has been reminding me how important the people in my life are to me. I take pride in giving my clients a personal and hands-on experience, but I also care so much for my folks at home too. People matter most to me.

I decided to start my own business because I wanted to be available for the people in my life. When I worked in higher ed, I nearly lost one of my childhood best friends. I remember the hospital he was in was across the street from the institution I worked for, but my bosses would give me a hard time if I visited on my lunch break… even if I got all my work done for the day. I never wanted to be shamed for being a friend again. It was one of the many reasons I quit.

I’m sure my fellow entrepreneurs are giggling. Most small business owners start for the sake of “work life balance” but end up working more than they ever have haha! Although that’s true, I have the ability to move my hours around, work in the evenings or do what it takes to show up for my people.

In fact, I’m typing this from the hospital room with my grandmother now. This business has given me the freedom to do that. But it isn’t just my own people, or my clients either. In my industry I have won several awards for my willingness to help other Young Professionals grow. As I mentioned in one of my earlier prompts, only 19% of travel advisors are under 40. It can be a tough industry for young people. Since I’ve found my own success, I’d like to help others grow too. Outside of my industry, I have also been able to work with a lot of organizations in my community, because of my business as well. I’ve even been to DC multiple times to advocate to politicians about small businesses and legislature that impacts small business owners, and people in the travel space as well. Whether its donating my time, or being in the financial situation to support with money too, my business allows me to keep people first always. For that, I’m forever grateful.

Pricing:

• it really depends on the trip and what people want out of their experience

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.smileytravel.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smiley_travel
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smiley.travel15
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-smiley-46a7b618b/