Ragan Andrew:
A Drifted Calling
It took losing everything familiar for Ragan to find where she truly belonged. From the West Coast to St. Louis, her leap of faith and passion for people became the roots of her thriving travel business.
Bio
Ragan Andrew is a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of experience in festivals, events, tourism, and public service. Currently with Adrift Tours and Travel, Ragan brings over 16 years of expertise in festival and event planning and has been actively involved in the tours and travel industry since 2006.
Her extensive background includes end-to-end event execution, strategic planning, and small business development, with a strong emphasis on creating memorable experiences and impactful community engagement. In addition to her work in tourism and events, Ragan has dedicated 15 years to city government, where she honed her skills in public administration, civic collaboration, and community-focused service delivery.
Ragan is passionate about connecting people, places, and culture—whether through travel experiences or dynamic local events. Her unique blend of public and private sector experience positions her as a leader in community enrichment and experiential tourism.
Topics
- Reinventing yourself when life falls apart
- Why travel and faith are natural partners
- Lessons from growing up in a family bakery
- How small businesses build community connection
- Launching a business during crisis
- From destination marketing to destination guiding
- Why asking questions can cost you—but save your calling
- The power of hometown roots and new beginnings
- Building a travel company with heart and service
- Keeping family hospitality alive through modern adventures
Guiding Questions
- What went through your mind as you packed up your car and drove east?
- Why did St. Louis feel like the right place to rebuild?
- How did growing up in your parents’ bakery shape the way you run your company now?
- What was the hardest part about losing your career and marriage at once?
- How did Lewis and Clark inspire you to keep moving?
- What role does faith play in how you lead today?
- Can you share why you believe travel can heal people?
- What’s been your biggest lesson from launching A Drift Tours and Travel?
- How do you carry your family’s service mindset into your tours?
- What advice would you give someone on the brink of starting over?