About Us

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Hi! I’m Daniel Milks,

The owner of My XO Adventures & Badlands Tour Company. I never saw myself traveling as much as I have, but I’m certainly grateful for it. My career began in 2011 as a sales agent, and from there I worked my way up and through a number of directorships.
I absolutely love travel for so many reasons. It’s in my lifeblood and an integral part of my life. My favorite place is the place I haven’t been. Most of my offerings are created from first hand experience in the places I go. If you see it on the website it’s because something personally touched me about the region and I’m certain you’ll love it. I’m a native from Erie, PA and lived most of my life in Sarasota Florida. Most recently, I’ve moved to the Black Hills of South Dakota and I love it here. I spend my summers in the Black Hills providing the best private tours possible. During the cooler months is when I offer my international destinations. I realize that you’re looking for an experience more than anything, which is what I offer. I personally escort each tour to make sure everything goes well, but also to get to know you. Badlands Tour Company has quite a few repeat guests and I give everything I’ve got to make that happen!

Mission Statement

“We Do Everything We Do “For The Love of Travel”

Badlands Tour Company emerged from a passion for exploration. Established in 2018, our ethos revolves around the belief that travel can bridge cultures, broaden perspectives, and rejuvenate the soul. Each experience we curate is crafted with this principle at its core. Our mission is to embrace the rich tapestry of global cultures and traverse the world for as long as we can, fostering a deeper understanding of diversity and, in turn, ourselves.

Our planet, a precious gift from Mother Nature, beckons us to explore its wonders responsibly. Witnessing firsthand the majesty of the Black Hills of South Dakota reinforces our commitment to safeguarding the environment from harm. These journeys underscore our responsibility to the Earth, inspiring accountability in our daily lives.

At Badlands Tour Company, we believe in the power of individuals to shape a better world. We celebrate diversity and welcome all travelers to join us on transformative journeys where we disconnect from the noise and reconnect with the essence of nature—its people, landscapes, flora, and fauna. Together, we strive to make a positive impact and remind ourselves of our purpose.

Company Overview

“We Do Everything We Do “For The Love of Travel”

Daniel Milks started Badlands Tour Company in Sarasota, Florida, after working for a large tour operator. He began in travel by answering telephones and working in a sales shark environment, selling tours the operator created. These tours could be thousands of people on a single departure.

Since he had never been outside of the country, except Canada, Daniel needed to gain the experience of a seasoned travel agent, so he asked himself how he could stand apart. Sharks have big teeth, but they are just in for the kill. Once the sale was over, it was time to move on to the next client.

Daniel took the tact of being honest (that is his nature), Letting the guest know if he didn’t have an answer, but following up with the information the guest needed and making himself available to their needs. This practice is how he built his book of business.

Later, Daniel became Director of Marketing, Product Development, and Principal Buyer.

 

Daniel left the company after realizing he wasn’t enjoying travel any longer due to the working conditions and business practices. The choice was to come home and grumble about the day or do something about it.

The next day, he gave his thirty-day notice and felt an instant relief. The same day, a conversation with his friend and Pastor, Dan Minor of Harvest Sarasota, revealed Harvest was looking for a new administrator, and Daniel Milks was at the top of the list.

They worked the details out, and Daniel Milks found himself in a position he never expected. Working to improve systems, social events, volunteer participation, and more, he went to work right away. Daniel promised the Pastor 3 years, but no more.

After a year and a half into the job, event participation grew exponentially, and efficiencies began to show significant and quantifiable results. At the same time, his former employer and tour company declared bankruptcy.