Travel Job Series: Jeff Jenkins
At a New York Times Travel Show years ago, a nice guy approached me after a panel, since I had asked a question and shared my background as a publicist. He was so inquisitive and 100% on a mission. He radiated this positive energy, and he had an important message to deliver to an underserved audience.
We kept crossing paths at a couple travel events over the years. He joined the first TravelCon event we hosted in Austin, and it felt like he found his wings. He put in the hard work and was unstoppable. I love seeing when good people get the spotlight and breaking barriers.
Please meet Jeff Jenkins.
Jeff Jenkins is an award-winning Travel/ Food Blogger, speaker, podcast host, and Influencer based out of Austin, Texas.
Most recently, Jeff is proud to add travel documentarian to his list of adventures as he stars in “Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins” - a show that explores diverse cultures, locations and overcoming fears, backed by National Geographic.
What is your background and education?
I am a content creator & travel journalist. I earned a BS in Music Education at FAMU in 2009.
What's a typical day for you on the job?
When I’m not traveling, I do a lot of meetings with potential partners and with my assistant in front of my computer. When I am traveling, I usually have a full schedule, so I can create my content. I spend time exploring and learning about that destination.
What are some of your current projects & wins?
Collaborating with amazing destination marketing organizations and hosting and promoting my new Nat Geo show "Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins."
Make sure to catch it streaming on Hulu and these services.
What do you feel is your biggest career risk?
Investing in my dreams. I created big audacious goals that I had not seen anyone close to me do and I just went for it not knowing if they would work or not.
Do you have career advice or a tip you can share?
Don't Give Up! I've learned the secret to success and why the people that we look up to are successful, they are the ones who didn't give up. They pushed through all the obstacles and adversity and stayed the course even when it didn't look like things were going to actually work.
What are some of your career highlights?
I worked with some of the top brands in the industry from doing an advertorial with Marriott Bonvoy to a mental health awareness month campaign with Meta.
What's your most memorable trip and why?
Belize, that was the first time I ever did a solo trip, and I was very nervous. I didn't know if I was going to have a great time but, I met amazing people and did things I normally wouldn't do if I went with a group. So it forced me to step out of my comfort zone and gave me a sense of independence that I didn't know I needed.
What would you tell your younger self?
"Ask yourself the question, 'Why not me?'
You are so resilient that whatever you dream up can actually happen for you."
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I can sing. I used to be a Choir Director!
