Michael Herrmann on Destination on the Left: How AI is Transforming DMC Itinerary Operations
TourConnect AI is pleased to announce that our President and Founder, Michael Herrmann, recently joined host Nicole Mahoney on the long-running industry podcast Destination on the Left. This podcast episode focused solely on DMCs.
For nearly a decade, Destination on the Left has been a leading voice in travel, tourism, and hospitality. Nicole Mahoney delivers insightful conversations that bring together destination marketers, DMCs, tour operators, and consultants to explore collaboration, innovation, and smarter ways to grow. Her focus on community and practical industry challenges makes the show essential listening for tourism professionals.
With over 15 years of hands-on experience in the tourism industry — including founding a successful bike tour company in Sydney — Michael offered valuable insights into the real-world challenges DMCs face in 2026 and how AI itinerary building can help.
Key Insights for DMCs from the Conversation
In the episode, Michael shared practical perspectives on how AI can support DMC itinerary automation and overall operations. Here are the most relevant takeaways:
1. AI enhances human creativity rather than replacing it.
Michael stressed that the goal is to remove repetitive manual work so DMC teams can focus on what they do best.
“AI doesn’t replace the consultant. It removes the work that stops them from doing their best overall work.”
This shift that comes with AI itinerary software is particularly valuable for mid-sized DMCs looking to scale operations without increasing headcount, allowing experienced consultants to spend more time on client relationships, destination knowledge, and crafting memorable itineraries.
2. Moving beyond basic generative AI to enterprise-grade reliability is critical.
While many celebrate quick generative AI wins, Michael highlighted the higher standard needed for real DMC operations.
“If you mess one of those data elements up — your customer just had a bad experience.”
For complex multi-day itineraries, accuracy in dates, guest details, pickup locations, dietary requirements, and supplier data is non-negotiable.
3. The power of AI lies in using the right tool at the right time.
Michael explained TourConnect AI’s approach of intelligently combining different AI capabilities rather than relying on a single model.
“TourConnect AI has a fundamental belief that the power of AI is its ability to use the right tool at the right time for the right outcome.”
The platform works directly with your existing booking system and supplier relationships — a “bring-your-own-product and pricing” model that respects your negotiated rates and partnerships.
4. Response speed has a major impact on conversion rates.
Michael shared a compelling statistic from a TourConnect AI client:
“If you don’t respond to an itinerary request or even just a booking request… within twenty four hours, your conversion rate drops by forty percent.”
In competitive long-haul markets, this speed advantage can be the difference between winning and losing major group bookings. Faster, more efficient processes across the DMC-supplier-agent chain make a significant difference.
5. AI is levelling the playing field while bringing humans back to the centre of travel.
Looking ahead, Michael described a future where AI handles operational tasks so professionals can focus on genuine connection and customisation.
“Once this AI is taken hold, you’re literally talking to them asking how it feels and really making sure that it’s perfectly tailored to what they want… We can be focusing on those interactions, those human interactions that are so important.”
He noted that powerful AI tools are becoming accessible to DMCs of all sizes, not just large enterprises.
Listen to the Full Episode
We recommend listening to the complete conversation, which offers thoughtful insight into both Michael’s industry journey and practical applications of AI for DMCs and multi-day operators.
- Destination on the Left website
- Spotify
- iTunes
At TourConnect AI, we’re proud to see Michael contributing thoughtful perspectives to the industry. Our mission remains clear: building practical, reliable AI tools that help DMCs of all sizes reduce manual workload, eliminate errors, and create exceptional travel experiences.
Stay tuned for more insights as we continue developing solutions that support DMC teams in 2026 and beyond. If you enjoyed this article, you may be interested in reading about our recent growth in Africa and South America or requesting an exploratory meeting with us.
