Go Forward and Inspire isn’t just a tagline—it’s a reflection of over two decades of hospitality leadership, global learning strategy, and a belief that when we invest in people, everything gets better.
About Travis J. Smith
Go Forward and Inspire was founded by Travis J. Smith, an award-winning Learning and Development strategist with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations grow their people, elevate service, and transform culture.
A Career Built on Learning & Leadership
Philosophy of Leadership & Learning
When We Grow People, Everything Gets Better
Travis’s journey in hospitality began on the front lines, working in line-level roles that taught him the fundamentals of service, teamwork, and resilience. From there, he advanced into leadership positions as a General Manager and Director of Sales & Marketing before moving into Learning and Development—where he found his passion and calling.
He went on to spend 14 years with BWH Hotels, including two years leading the global Learning & Development function for over 4,000 hotels across 100+ countries. During that time, he launched a new global LMS, developed award-winning leadership programs, and drove culture and service training initiatives that produced measurable improvements in both associate engagement and guest experience.
Travis believes that leadership is a behavior, not a title, and that learning is most powerful when it connects people to purpose. His approach is empathetic yet results-driven, blending strategic clarity with participant-centered design to create experiences that inspire action.
“When leaders grow, service improves, teams thrive, and cultures come to life.”
Built on Experience. Back by Results.
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Guided learning and development strategy at BWH Hotels, expanding the training team and designing 7 high-impact leadership programs.
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Led full pre-opening training, onboarding, and culture development for two luxury resort launches—supporting 500+ associates across all departments in aligning to brand values and luxury service standards. Also partnered with multiple existing properties to drive culture transformation, leadership development, and elevated service delivery.
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Recognized for global excellence in leadership, culture transformation, and learning innovation—including 3 Gold, 2 Silver, 4 Bronze, and a Top 100 Training APEX Award.
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Launched a global LMS used in 100+ countries, improving usability by 14.6% and reducing help desk tickets by 75%.
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Delivered global culture and service training to 4,000+ hotels, with measurable guest experience improvements in service, cleanliness, and working order.
Beyond the Work
A native of Arizona, Travis has been married for 25 years and is the proud father of three children. Outside of his professional work, he loves to explore new recipes in the kitchen—experimenting with his Instapot, outdoor smoker, and Blackstone grill.
To recharge, he spends time outdoors, finding energy and perspective in nature. Whether mentoring leaders, cooking for his family, or exploring new trails, Travis believes the best ideas come when we stay curious, connected, and inspired.
Philosophy of Leadership & Learning
Travis believes that leadership is a behavior, not a title, and that learning is most powerful when it connects people to purpose. His approach is empathetic yet results-driven, blending strategic clarity with participant-centered design to create experiences that inspire action.
“When leaders grow, service improves, teams thrive, and cultures come to life.”