S5/E22 Expedia's B2B Strategy: How Technology Drives Global Travel Partnerships with Karen Bolda
Travel tech is evolving at lightning speed - reshaping how the world moves, books, and experiences journeys. In this episode, we sit down with Karen Bolda, Chief Product and Technology Officer for Private Label Solutions, Expedia Group’s B2B division, to explore the cutting-edge innovations driving the future of global travel from behind the scenes.
Karen takes us behind the scenes of Expedia Group's massive B2B operation – a side of the business many travelers never see but that powers over 70,000 businesses and 160,000 travel advisors worldwide. From her unique journey starting as a software developer to leading technology strategy for one of travel's biggest players, Karen offers rare insights into how Expedia is integrating AI throughout its ecosystem.
The conversation shatters common misconceptions about technology's role in travel. Rather than replacing travel advisors, Expedia Group's AI-powered tools are freeing them from operational tasks to focus on what computers can't replicate: human connection and expertise. Through specific examples like their quotation tools and virtual agents for travel advisors, Karen illustrates how technology enhances rather than diminishes the human element in travel planning.
We explore how Expedia Group's expanding product offerings – from hotel and flight bookings to vacation rentals through vrbo and increasingly into activities and experiences – reflect evolving traveler expectations for more comprehensive, seamless journeys. Perhaps most impressive is their AI-powered fraud prevention system, which stopped $4 billion in fraud in 2024 alone.
This episode offers a compelling look at the technological revolution transforming the way we explore the world. It highlights how innovative advancements are making travel more secure, seamless, and deeply personalized—ushering in a new era of smarter, more meaningful journeys.
👉 Listen to Expedia's B2B Strategy: How Technology Drives Global Travel Partnerships Now
🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect Group
