NBC’s ‘Extra Mile Club’ Ignites Portland: ‘American Ninja Warrior’ Hosts Seek Ultimate Oregon Adventures
Adventure and luxury collide as NBC’s “1st Look Presents — Extra Mile Club” returns with its most thrilling season yet, set against the stunning backdrop of Portland, Oregon. The highly anticipated new season, premiering October 11 and 18, promises a dynamic blend of high-octane activities and exquisite travel planning, featuring the adventurous spirits of “American Ninja Warrior” co-hosts Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbaja-Biamila as the discerning celebrity clients.
Portland’s Thrills and Pacific Northwest Charm
The episodes filmed in and around Portland will immerse viewers in the rugged beauty and adventurous spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Global Travel Collection advisors Leslie Tillem and Curtis Parris are tasked with crafting bespoke getaways that push the boundaries of excitement and leisure. The itinerary includes a heart-pounding experience of stock car and drag racing at Portland International Raceway, with specialized instruction from Pro Drive Driving School and high-performance drag cars provided by Skyline Ford. For a change of pace and perspective, a breathtaking helicopter ride will soar through the scenic Willamette Valley wine country, offering unparalleled views of Oregon’s famed vineyards. This is complemented by a private wine-tasting session designed to tantalize the senses. Further exploration awaits with coastal foraging expeditions and sightseeing adventures in the iconic Ecola State Park, capturing the dramatic beauty of the Oregon coast. The quest for unique experiences also includes a traditional crabbing excursion, promising a taste of local life and bounty.
Behind the Scenes of Luxury Travel Design
“1st Look Presents — Extra Mile Club” is more than just a travel show; it’s a captivating competition that puts the spotlight on the unparalleled expertise of luxury travel advisors. Produced by LXTV Productions, part of NBCUniversal Local, and developed in partnership with Global Travel Collection (GTC), the series follows elite advisors as they vie to design the ultimate vacation experience for celebrity clientele. In these Portland-focused episodes, veteran GTC advisors Leslie Tillem and Curtis Parris leverage their decades of experience and extensive network of suppliers to create extraordinary journeys tailored to their clients’ preferences. Their ability to craft exceptional, personalized trips highlights the significant value and human touch that top-tier travel professionals bring to the world of leisure and life’s most memorable experiences.
‘American Ninja Warrior’ Hosts Face New Challenge
For this season’s Portland adventures, Iseman and Gbaja-Biamila step out of their usual roles as guides of athletic challenges and into the shoes of clients seeking the ultimate thrill-seeking getaway. Known for their engaging personalities and deep understanding of what it takes to push limits, the “American Ninja Warrior” duo will put Tillem and Parris’s creativity and logistical prowess to the test. Their preferences will dictate the advisors’ strategies, leading to a competition where only the most inspired and impeccably planned itinerary will emerge victorious, with the hosts ultimately deciding which advisor earned their future business.
LXTV and Global Travel Collection’s Vision
As an extension of LXTV’s renowned “1st Look” brand, “Extra Mile Club” aims to deliver engaging and inspiring content that appeals to travel enthusiasts and those who appreciate aspirational lifestyle pursuits. Marni Sabia, VP of Original Content & Development for LXTV Productions, stated the mission is to create content that “excite[s] audiences to keep dreaming about their next vacation.” The partnership with Global Travel Collection, a leading network of luxury travel advisors, underscores a shared commitment to elevating the profession. Angie Licea, President of Global Travel Collection, emphasizes that the show “demonstrates exactly why travel advisors are invaluable to their clients” and showcases “the hard work it takes to go the extra mile.”
A Deeper Look at the ‘Extra Mile Club’ Format
This is not the first time “Extra Mile Club” has showcased the craft of luxury travel planning. The series, which premiered its pilot in May 2023 with advisors Tillem and Parris curating a New York City experience for “Bachelor in Paradise” alums Ashley and Jared Haibon, has since expanded. Previous episodes featured stunning destinations like Maui, where advisors catered to “Selling Sunset” stars Emma Hernan and Chelsea Lazkani, with GTC’s foundation also contributing to wildfire recovery efforts on the island. The show has garnered significant viewership, airing on NBC stations nationally and streaming on platforms like Peacock, reaching millions and providing unparalleled exposure for the travel advisor profession. This news from Oregon adds another exciting chapter to the series’ success.
Conclusion
The new season of “1st Look Presents — Extra Mile Club” promises an exhilarating journey through Portland and the diverse life of Oregon. With the charismatic presence of Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbaja-Biamila, and the expert curation by Leslie Tillem and Curtis Parris, these episodes are set to inspire viewers with the ultimate blend of adventure, luxury, and the exceptional service that defines the travel advisor’s role in crafting unforgettable life experiences. Tune in to NBC on October 11 and 18 for a front-row seat to the competition and the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.
