Susan Black
Susan Black is a pioneering entrepreneur and innovator in the TravelTech and AgeTech industries, serving as the Founder and CEO of Wowzitude. Since launching the award-winning platform in 2021, Susan has transformed how people explore the world by providing live, interactive walking tours from over 180 cities, connecting millions of participants with local expert guides in real time. Her platform serves libraries, senior living communities, museums, wellness organizations, and travel planners, offering scalable, accessible cultural experiences that combine technology, community, and purpose. Under her leadership, Wowzitude has received recognition from AARP, Goldman Sachs, Barclays, MassChallenge, and UJA Tech for Good.
With over 25 years of experience in travel and travel technology, Susan has held leadership roles at American Express Travel, Liberty Travel, and CIE Tours, and has advised startups and industry leaders on growth strategies, digital transformation, and experiential engagement. She is a recognized thought leader on the intersection of travel, technology, and healthy aging, advocating for travel experiences that promote lifelong learning, cognitive stimulation, and meaningful social connections. Susan speaks frequently on the future of hybrid travel, digital engagement, and entrepreneurship, particularly for founders building later in life.
Beyond Wowzitude, Susan serves as a Senior Advisor at Oliver Wyman’s Travel & Tourism practice and on the Advisory Board of AgeTech NYC, guiding innovation and strategic growth in the AgeTech sector. She also runs Susan Black Associates, LLC, providing business advisory and market intelligence for travel, tourism, and related technology industries. A champion for purposeful travel and accessible experiences, Susan combines her expertise, creativity, and vision to empower communities, foster connections, and reimagine how people engage with the world at every age.
• The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL- M.Phil.
• Rutgers University- B.A.
• 2024 Finalist in MassChallenge Resolve '24
• 2023 Finalist in Barclays' "Small Business Big Wins" Promotion
• 2022 Think Global Awards - Travel - Creative Ingenuity Award Winner
• 2021 Subscription Trade Association Pitch Competition Winner
• 2018 Magellan Awards - Gold for Overall Marketing
• 2017 Magellan Awards
• 2013 Magellan Awards - 2 Gold and 2 Silver
• 2012 HSMAI Adrian Awards - Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for Marketing
• 2012 Magellan Awards - 4 Gold and 1 Silver
• United States Tour Operators Association
• Association of Travel Marketing Executives
• Eye for Travel
• Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International
• American Society of Travel Agents
• Well Med Charitable Foundation
• Travel Unity
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to listening to other experts, consistently attending networking events, and always staying open to learning and connecting with others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be proactive—don’t wait for your contributions to be recognized. Focus on becoming an expert in a specific area, network relentlessly, ask thoughtful questions, and be generous with your time and knowledge; visibility, expertise, and connections will set you apart.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are lifelong learning, curiosity, and connection—both in my work and personal life—as I love traveling, hiking, attending lectures and community programs, and networking across all areas of life.