Episode 10

Strategic Storytelling at the Titanic Museum Attraction

Your Host

About this Episode

What if the secret to building a world-class tourist attraction wasn't the artifacts themselves, but the stories you tell about them?

In this milestone 10th episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll discover how Mary Kellogg Joslyn applied decades of high-level Disney and CBS experience to transform the historical tragedy of the Titanic into an immersive, multi-million dollar "museum attraction."

Mary Kellogg Joslyn, President and COO of Titanic Museum Attractions, shares the strategic blueprint behind the ship's iconic design—leveraging the "nag factor" to capture the attention of families on the Parkway. She pulls back the curtain on her time at Disney and CBS, explaining how meticulous planning and an "employee-first" philosophy are vital to maintaining a high-quality guest experience. Mary also reveals the future of the attraction, including the highly anticipated arrival of the bandmaster's violin and new efforts to honor Jewish passengers through a dedicated kosher kitchen exhibit. Beyond the artifacts, the episode highlights the museum's profound community impact, from its unique autism-sensitive morning tours to its dedicated "Titanic College" for staff.

Click play to learn how strategic storytelling and proactive management continue to keep history afloat in Pigeon Forge.