Cruise Planners’ Scott Koepf, From Opera Singer to ‘Singing Salesman’ Scott Koepf is a familiar face — especially within the cruise industry — and a true jack of all trades. Prior to his career in travel, Koepf went to college on a football scholarship, founded his own fraternity, and left with a joint degree in business and opera performance. His athletic ability, leadership skills and on-stage charisma has landed him the industry nicknames “The Sales Coach” and “The Singing Salesman,” and have also translated to other chapters of his life, from pursuing a big break in Hollywood — where he met his wife, Pam, during an audition — to entertaining passengers onboard cruise ships. Koepf is also a recent recipient of Cruise Lines International Association’s Lifetime Achievement award, and he currently helps cruise specialists learn the tricks of the trade as the senior vice president of strategic planning for Cruise Planners. Scott Koepf In this episode of Humans of Travel, Koepf talks about what he has learned in his 35 years in the travel industry, from his time working as a cruise ship entertainer to taking the ultimate leap of faith: Buying a cruise franchise with his wife’s game show winnings. We’ll also hear about the challenges Koepf has faced as a business owner, and his advice for new-to-industry travel advisors.