Jeremy Mendelsohn is an accomplished travel industry executive with over a decade of experience in strategic account management, event production, and group travel. Currently serving as the Director of Strategic Accounts at All Roads Travel, Jeremy leads one of the largest student travel companies in the country, having successfully traveled over 500,000 students across 50 destinations over the past 12 years. His journey began at the age of 24 when he founded TravelZeeky, a corporate and collegiate travel company specializing in group and leisure travel. Under his leadership, he has achieved remarkable success, grossing over $40 million in revenue and executing over 1,000 events. The company’s success led to its acquisition by a London-based tech company in 2018.
A graduate of San Diego State University with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications, Jeremy was actively involved in student government and multiple organizations, including the Greenlove Board and Sigma Chi Fraternity. He also studied abroad at the University of Macau, where he expanded his knowledge of business marketing. Jeremy’s expertise extends beyond travel, as he has built a small real estate portfolio across several U.S. states. Passionate about travel from a young age, he has visited 41 countries and aims to explore every state in the U.S. and continent worldwide. Jeremy is known for his dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to build lasting relationships, making him a respected leader in the travel industry.
As an entrepreneur, how do you believe you impact the people around you and strive to make the world a better place?
I believe that the way I conduct myself – with integrity, positivity, and respect – creates a ripple effect that influences others. My goal is to lead by example, demonstrating that hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude can not only overcome obstacles but also inspire others to do the same. It’s about more than just business; it’s about building meaningful relationships and leaving a lasting impact on everyone I work with.
You’ve faced numerous challenges as an entrepreneur, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. How did you adapt your business model in such a difficult time?
The pandemic was a huge challenge, particularly for the travel industry. When many of our events were canceled, we had to think outside the box and pivot quickly. We started offering at-home events, which turned out to be a surprisingly successful venture. It taught me the importance of creativity, resilience, and not being afraid to adapt when faced with unexpected obstacles.
What have you learned from your older siblings that’s influenced your journey as an entrepreneur?
My older siblings have been my biggest inspiration. They’ve both faced intense personal challenges and emerged stronger, which has shown me what it truly takes to overcome adversity. Their courage, perseverance, and success have motivated me to push through my own challenges with the same determination.
How do you ensure you maintain a balance between your work and personal life, especially as someone who’s constantly on the move?
Balance is crucial to me. I make it a point to set boundaries so that my work doesn’t overshadow my personal growth and experiences. I remind myself to always be learning and to never assume I know everything. Traveling is a big part of my life, but so is making time for personal development and spending quality moments with loved ones.
How do you measure success in your business, and what do you find most rewarding about your work?
I measure success in many ways – revenue and growth are important indicators, but the most rewarding aspect is the lasting memories I create through the experiences I’ve produced across the country. Knowing that I’ve played a role in crafting unforgettable moments for others is what truly drives me.
What strategies do you use to tackle challenges and anticipate potential obstacles in your business?
I believe in getting ahead of challenges rather than reacting to them. By planning years in advance, tracking revenue and events throughout the calendar year, and always anticipating potential roadblocks, I’m able to face issues head-on. It’s about being proactive, staying adaptable, and not being afraid to pivot when necessary.
How do you maintain your mental well-being while managing the demands of your career?
Mental well-being is everything. If you’re not in a good mindset, it affects your attitude and, ultimately, your performance. I prioritize activities that help me recharge, stay focused, and keep a positive outlook, whether it’s traveling, spending time with family, exercising or simply taking a moment to step back and reflect on my journey.
Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs about overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals?
Always approach challenges with a positive attitude, communicate effectively, and be honest and punctual in everything you do. Hard work, dedication, and commitment are the best tools for overcoming obstacles. And remember, success doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a journey, so embrace every step, learn from each experience, and never stop growing.