Defining Hospitality Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/defining-hospitality-podcast Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In each episode we provide 1 on 1, in depth interviews with experts in the industry to learn what hospitality means to them. We feature expert advice on working in the industry, behind the scenes looks at some of your favorite brands, and in depth explorations of unique hospitality projects. Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality, Dan brings his expertise and passion to each episode as he delves into the latest trends and challenges facing the industry. Episodes are released every week on Wednesday mornings. To listen to episodes, visit https://www.defininghospitality.live/ or subscribe to Defining Hospitality wherever you get your podcasts. Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. 5448a236-20ed-5ac9-828e-ffd829d84910 no en Wed, 13 May 2026 15:06:37 -0400 Wed, 13 May 2026 15:09:13 -0400 http://www.defininghospitality.live https://img.transistorcdn.com/OzoyXev3ftWKuyY_-NovZJmcbLN9d-mYgaYpwVNfSZw/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzM5MzU3LzE2ODE4/MjI1NTUtYXJ0d29y/ay5qcGc.jpg Defining Hospitality http://www.defininghospitality.live episodic Dan Ryan Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In each episode we provide 1 on 1, in depth interviews with experts in the industry to learn what hospitality means to them. We feature expert advice on working in the industry, behind the scenes looks at some of your favorite brands, and in depth explorations of unique hospitality projects. Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality, Dan brings his expertise and passion to each episode as he delves into the latest trends and challenges facing the industry. Episodes are released every week on Wednesday mornings. To listen to episodes, visit https://www.defininghospitality.live/ or subscribe to Defining Hospitality wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex Agency 967 No No Global Visions, Local Touches - Genna Panagopoulos - Defining Hospitality 251 251 Global Visions, Local Touches - Genna Panagopoulos - Defining Hospitality full 10e08ac8-a10d-4fec-9f6d-bfa20bc59bac https://share.transistor.fm/s/31d35076 This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Genna Panagopoulos, Vice President of Development at Minor Hotels, to make the case that the most exciting real estate play in hospitality right now isn't in Asia or Europe, it's right here in America. A restaurant kid from Detroit who fell in love with hotels, Genna is the one handed the keys to a 640 property global giant's entire North American future, armed with 12 brands, a freshly built franchise model, and a philosophy that deals only work when everyone at the table wins. One NH Collection in Manhattan down. Twenty four more to go.


About the Guest: 
Genna Panagopoulos, VP of Development at Minor Hotels, a Greek American, raised in the restaurant business by an immigrant father who treated every customer like family, who somehow ended up being the person responsible for introducing one of the world's largest hotel companies to the United States. With over 15 years spanning hotel investment, brand strategy, and development at the likes of Davidson Hotels and IHG, Genna isn't just opening doors in new markets. She's the one deciding which doors are worth knocking on in the first place.


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Genna Panagopoulos

02:10 Greek Roots and Philoxenia

05:43 From Restaurants to Hotels

07:03 Minor Brands and Luxury Resorts

09:50 US Growth Model and Deal Flexibility

12:02 Target Markets and Investor Mindset

15:13 Financing and Conversion Strategy

20:12 Service Culture and Scaling Luxury

27:26 Uniqueness Over Scale

28:50 Early Growth Bottlenecks

29:30 Portfolio Deals and Marketing

30:30 New Brand or Collections

32:11 Lessons From US Expansion

34:10 Where Deals Are Happening

36:09 Choosing the Right Partners

38:58 Deal Terms and Key Money

42:48 Future Vision and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:
“We're not here to make money right now. We're here to plant our flags and build brand awareness." - Genna Panagopoulos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Minor Hotels is introducing the legendary Anantara and Wolseley brands to North America: learn more about the company's strategy and ambitions!!


Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Genna Panagopoulos, Vice President of Development at Minor Hotels, to make the case that the most exciting real estate play in hospitality right now isn't in Asia or Europe, it's right here in America. A restaurant kid from Detroit who fell in love with hotels, Genna is the one handed the keys to a 640 property global giant's entire North American future, armed with 12 brands, a freshly built franchise model, and a philosophy that deals only work when everyone at the table wins. One NH Collection in Manhattan down. Twenty four more to go.


About the Guest: 
Genna Panagopoulos, VP of Development at Minor Hotels, a Greek American, raised in the restaurant business by an immigrant father who treated every customer like family, who somehow ended up being the person responsible for introducing one of the world's largest hotel companies to the United States. With over 15 years spanning hotel investment, brand strategy, and development at the likes of Davidson Hotels and IHG, Genna isn't just opening doors in new markets. She's the one deciding which doors are worth knocking on in the first place.


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Genna Panagopoulos

02:10 Greek Roots and Philoxenia

05:43 From Restaurants to Hotels

07:03 Minor Brands and Luxury Resorts

09:50 US Growth Model and Deal Flexibility

12:02 Target Markets and Investor Mindset

15:13 Financing and Conversion Strategy

20:12 Service Culture and Scaling Luxury

27:26 Uniqueness Over Scale

28:50 Early Growth Bottlenecks

29:30 Portfolio Deals and Marketing

30:30 New Brand or Collections

32:11 Lessons From US Expansion

34:10 Where Deals Are Happening

36:09 Choosing the Right Partners

38:58 Deal Terms and Key Money

42:48 Future Vision and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:
“We're not here to make money right now. We're here to plant our flags and build brand awareness." - Genna Panagopoulos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Minor Hotels is introducing the legendary Anantara and Wolseley brands to North America: learn more about the company's strategy and ambitions!!


Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3204 This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Genna Panagopoulos, Vice President of Development at Minor Hotels, to make the case that the most exciting real estate play in hospitality right now isn't in Asia or Europe, it's right here in America. A restaurant kid from Detroit who fell in love with hotels, Genna is the one handed the keys to a 640 property global giant's entire North American future, armed with 12 brands, a freshly built franchise model, and a philosophy that deals only work when everyone at the table wins. One NH Collection in Manhattan down. Twenty four more to go.


About the Guest: 
Genna Panagopoulos, VP of Development at Minor Hotels, a Greek American, raised in the restaurant business by an immigrant father who treated every customer like family, who somehow ended up being the person responsible for introducing one of the world's largest hotel companies to the United States. With over 15 years spanning hotel investment, brand strategy, and development at the likes of Davidson Hotels and IHG, Genna isn't just opening doors in new markets. She's the one deciding which doors are worth knocking on in the first place.


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Genna Panagopoulos

02:10 Greek Roots and Philoxenia

05:43 From Restaurants to Hotels

07:03 Minor Brands and Luxury Resorts

09:50 US Growth Model and Deal Flexibility

12:02 Target Markets and Investor Mindset

15:13 Financing and Conversion Strategy

20:12 Service Culture and Scaling Luxury

27:26 Uniqueness Over Scale

28:50 Early Growth Bottlenecks

29:30 Portfolio Deals and Marketing

30:30 New Brand or Collections

32:11 Lessons From US Expansion

34:10 Where Deals Are Happening

36:09 Choosing the Right Partners

38:58 Deal Terms and Key Money

42:48 Future Vision and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:
“We're not here to make money right now. We're here to plant our flags and build brand awareness." - Genna Panagopoulos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Minor Hotels is introducing the legendary Anantara and Wolseley brands to North America: learn more about the company's strategy and ambitions!!


Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Serena Johnson Redefining Hospitality Through Tech - Tanya Pratt - Defining Hospitality 250 250 Redefining Hospitality Through Tech - Tanya Pratt - Defining Hospitality full 2982b23a-e409-4989-b07e-e8c2c2f0a2a5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/28ad5a34 This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, to prove that the most powerful upgrade a hotel can make isn't to its lobby, it's to its data. A front desk girl turned tech executive, Tanya unpacks how Oracle is collapsing decades of fragmented systems into one seamless guest experience, why cloud adoption exploded the moment hotels ran out of people, and what happened during an 18-hour outage at 3am that changed the entire trajectory of her career. The promise of hospitality has always been human. The technology is finally catching up. 


About the Guest:
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, a self described nerdy science kid who accidentally fell in love with a front desk and never really left. Thirty years later, she's the one making sure the technology behind hospitality is finally as seamless as the experience is supposed to feel. Forged at Fairmont, recognized as one of the top 25 extraordinary minds in the industry, and fluent in both boardrooms and lobbies, Tanya isn't just building better software. She's keeping the promise. 


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Tanya Pratt

01:27 Hearing Your Own Story

03:20 Hospitality Is a Promise

04:44 Tech Removes Friction

08:14 Unified Data at Check In

12:29 Hospitality Tech 101

16:08 One Guest One Profile

19:18 ROI and Why Hotels Lag

30:20 Tech Enables Hospitality

31:36 Finding Your Calling

33:13 Front Desk To VP

34:56 Advice For 18 Year Olds

36:01 Grit In Instant Age

39:03 Human Skills Matter

41:27 Untangling Tech Spaghetti

45:11 Crucible Command Center

56:22 Future Of Hospitality Tech


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a promise. It's a promise that's made and kept a thousand times in small moments." - Tanya Pratt


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, to prove that the most powerful upgrade a hotel can make isn't to its lobby, it's to its data. A front desk girl turned tech executive, Tanya unpacks how Oracle is collapsing decades of fragmented systems into one seamless guest experience, why cloud adoption exploded the moment hotels ran out of people, and what happened during an 18-hour outage at 3am that changed the entire trajectory of her career. The promise of hospitality has always been human. The technology is finally catching up. 


About the Guest:
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, a self described nerdy science kid who accidentally fell in love with a front desk and never really left. Thirty years later, she's the one making sure the technology behind hospitality is finally as seamless as the experience is supposed to feel. Forged at Fairmont, recognized as one of the top 25 extraordinary minds in the industry, and fluent in both boardrooms and lobbies, Tanya isn't just building better software. She's keeping the promise. 


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Tanya Pratt

01:27 Hearing Your Own Story

03:20 Hospitality Is a Promise

04:44 Tech Removes Friction

08:14 Unified Data at Check In

12:29 Hospitality Tech 101

16:08 One Guest One Profile

19:18 ROI and Why Hotels Lag

30:20 Tech Enables Hospitality

31:36 Finding Your Calling

33:13 Front Desk To VP

34:56 Advice For 18 Year Olds

36:01 Grit In Instant Age

39:03 Human Skills Matter

41:27 Untangling Tech Spaghetti

45:11 Crucible Command Center

56:22 Future Of Hospitality Tech


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a promise. It's a promise that's made and kept a thousand times in small moments." - Tanya Pratt


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3627 This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, to prove that the most powerful upgrade a hotel can make isn't to its lobby, it's to its data. A front desk girl turned tech executive, Tanya unpacks how Oracle is collapsing decades of fragmented systems into one seamless guest experience, why cloud adoption exploded the moment hotels ran out of people, and what happened during an 18-hour outage at 3am that changed the entire trajectory of her career. The promise of hospitality has always been human. The technology is finally catching up. 


About the Guest:
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, a self described nerdy science kid who accidentally fell in love with a front desk and never really left. Thirty years later, she's the one making sure the technology behind hospitality is finally as seamless as the experience is supposed to feel. Forged at Fairmont, recognized as one of the top 25 extraordinary minds in the industry, and fluent in both boardrooms and lobbies, Tanya isn't just building better software. She's keeping the promise. 


Chapters:
00:35 Meet Tanya Pratt

01:27 Hearing Your Own Story

03:20 Hospitality Is a Promise

04:44 Tech Removes Friction

08:14 Unified Data at Check In

12:29 Hospitality Tech 101

16:08 One Guest One Profile

19:18 ROI and Why Hotels Lag

30:20 Tech Enables Hospitality

31:36 Finding Your Calling

33:13 Front Desk To VP

34:56 Advice For 18 Year Olds

36:01 Grit In Instant Age

39:03 Human Skills Matter

41:27 Untangling Tech Spaghetti

45:11 Crucible Command Center

56:22 Future Of Hospitality Tech


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a promise. It's a promise that's made and kept a thousand times in small moments." - Tanya Pratt


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.

Links:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Serena Johnson Dan Ryan Designing with Magic and Precision - Larah Moravek - Defining Hospitality 249 249 Designing with Magic and Precision - Larah Moravek - Defining Hospitality full 1442589f-1e0f-47fb-8b20-b206e23a871b https://share.transistor.fm/s/2aae60ca This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Larah Moravek, founding partner at Dutch East Design, to make the case that the most powerful thing a designer can bring to a project isn't a mood board, it's a story. Larah pulls back the curtain on how Dutch East blends interior design and branding under one roof, turning narrative driven frameworks into spaces that feel inevitable. With real stories from the ground including the adaptive reuse of a Marcel Breuer brutalist landmark into Hotel Marcel, the first passive house certified hotel in North America, and the Tapestry Chattanooga, a former bank building brought back to life, this episode proves that when magic and precision are working together, the constraint becomes the design. 🏠

About the Guest: 

Larah Moravek is a founding partner at Dutch East Design, a hospitality focused studio offering both interior design and branding under one roof. With a career shaped by two of the most iconic firms in the industry, Clodagh Design and Yabu Pushelberg, Larah brings a rare combination of instinct and rigor to every project she touches. Rooted in the belief that built environments have the power to create lasting emotional experiences, she and her partner Dieter lead a small but mighty studio known for their dense documentation, narrative driven approach, and a body of work spanning adaptive reuse, independent hotels, and licensed product collections.


Chapters:

00:45 Meet Larah Moravek

01:15 Friendship and Dutch East Origins

03:58 What Hospitality Means

07:08 Clodagh to Yabu Mentorship

08:49 Branding as Decision Tool

13:37 Stewardship and Adaptive Reuse

24:04 Functional Brief and Hard Questions

27:54 Science as Magic

28:03 From Med School to Interiors

30:03 New York Design Path

30:47 Yabu Pushelberg Rigor

32:19 Burnout and Solo Asia Reset

34:41 Building a Team Culture

37:43 Sustainability in Hospitality

44:33 Licensing and Product Lines

47:59 Future Plans and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:

"Sometimes you need more structure to be more creative. And I think some of the most beautiful and inspiring solutions come out of restriction." - Larah Moravek

Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Larah Moravek, founding partner at Dutch East Design, to make the case that the most powerful thing a designer can bring to a project isn't a mood board, it's a story. Larah pulls back the curtain on how Dutch East blends interior design and branding under one roof, turning narrative driven frameworks into spaces that feel inevitable. With real stories from the ground including the adaptive reuse of a Marcel Breuer brutalist landmark into Hotel Marcel, the first passive house certified hotel in North America, and the Tapestry Chattanooga, a former bank building brought back to life, this episode proves that when magic and precision are working together, the constraint becomes the design. 🏠

About the Guest: 

Larah Moravek is a founding partner at Dutch East Design, a hospitality focused studio offering both interior design and branding under one roof. With a career shaped by two of the most iconic firms in the industry, Clodagh Design and Yabu Pushelberg, Larah brings a rare combination of instinct and rigor to every project she touches. Rooted in the belief that built environments have the power to create lasting emotional experiences, she and her partner Dieter lead a small but mighty studio known for their dense documentation, narrative driven approach, and a body of work spanning adaptive reuse, independent hotels, and licensed product collections.


Chapters:

00:45 Meet Larah Moravek

01:15 Friendship and Dutch East Origins

03:58 What Hospitality Means

07:08 Clodagh to Yabu Mentorship

08:49 Branding as Decision Tool

13:37 Stewardship and Adaptive Reuse

24:04 Functional Brief and Hard Questions

27:54 Science as Magic

28:03 From Med School to Interiors

30:03 New York Design Path

30:47 Yabu Pushelberg Rigor

32:19 Burnout and Solo Asia Reset

34:41 Building a Team Culture

37:43 Sustainability in Hospitality

44:33 Licensing and Product Lines

47:59 Future Plans and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:

"Sometimes you need more structure to be more creative. And I think some of the most beautiful and inspiring solutions come out of restriction." - Larah Moravek

Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3169 This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Larah Moravek, founding partner at Dutch East Design, to make the case that the most powerful thing a designer can bring to a project isn't a mood board, it's a story. Larah pulls back the curtain on how Dutch East blends interior design and branding under one roof, turning narrative driven frameworks into spaces that feel inevitable. With real stories from the ground including the adaptive reuse of a Marcel Breuer brutalist landmark into Hotel Marcel, the first passive house certified hotel in North America, and the Tapestry Chattanooga, a former bank building brought back to life, this episode proves that when magic and precision are working together, the constraint becomes the design. 🏠

About the Guest: 

Larah Moravek is a founding partner at Dutch East Design, a hospitality focused studio offering both interior design and branding under one roof. With a career shaped by two of the most iconic firms in the industry, Clodagh Design and Yabu Pushelberg, Larah brings a rare combination of instinct and rigor to every project she touches. Rooted in the belief that built environments have the power to create lasting emotional experiences, she and her partner Dieter lead a small but mighty studio known for their dense documentation, narrative driven approach, and a body of work spanning adaptive reuse, independent hotels, and licensed product collections.


Chapters:

00:45 Meet Larah Moravek

01:15 Friendship and Dutch East Origins

03:58 What Hospitality Means

07:08 Clodagh to Yabu Mentorship

08:49 Branding as Decision Tool

13:37 Stewardship and Adaptive Reuse

24:04 Functional Brief and Hard Questions

27:54 Science as Magic

28:03 From Med School to Interiors

30:03 New York Design Path

30:47 Yabu Pushelberg Rigor

32:19 Burnout and Solo Asia Reset

34:41 Building a Team Culture

37:43 Sustainability in Hospitality

44:33 Licensing and Product Lines

47:59 Future Plans and Wrap Up


Quote of the Show:

"Sometimes you need more structure to be more creative. And I think some of the most beautiful and inspiring solutions come out of restriction." - Larah Moravek

Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Serena Johnson Green Means Revenue - JoAnna Abrams - Defining Hospitality 248 248 Green Means Revenue - JoAnna Abrams - Defining Hospitality full dab5bb56-3cfa-4431-b46a-43c445251399 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0688cf73 This Earth Day, Dan Ryan welcomes back JoAnna Abrams, founder and CEO of MindClick, to make the case that sustainability isn't just good for the planet, it's good for business. JoAnna reveals how MindClick's product intelligence platform transforms the sustainability data already hiding in hotel FF&E purchases into a competitive weapon, winning corporate travel contracts, boosting sustainability ratings, and growing real revenue. With stories from the ground, including Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf, and eye-opening stats on what ditching polystyrene packaging actually means for waste, this episode proves that going green and going profitable are finally pointing in the same direction. 🌍


About the Guest:

JoAnna Abrams is the founder and CEO of MindClick, a product intelligence platform helping hospitality companies unlock sustainability data across their supply chains. A multi-award winning trailblazer at the intersection of sustainability, supply chain, and finance, she has been recognized by Lodging Magazine as a female industry innovator, named a 2026 Inc. 500 Female Founders honoree, and selected for both the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership and the Imagine Program funded by former Unilever CEO Paul Polman.

Chapters:

00:46 Welcome JoAnna Abrams

02:00 Defining Hospitality Revisited

05:00 The ROI of Sustainability

07:30 EU Regulation Driving Corporate Demand

11:00 How Hotels Win Corporate Business with Sustainability

14:00 MindClick and Green Key Global

16:00 The Alo Index Platform Explained

19:00 Revenue Impact: 7–17% Market Share Increase

22:00 Training Sales Teams to Tell the Story

25:00 A Riskless Path for Hotel Owners

28:00 Connecting Guests and Frontline Staff

31:00 The Huntington Hotel Case Study

36:00 Polystyrene Elimination: The Numbers

40:00 Embodied Carbon and FF&E's Outsized Impact

44:00 What Hotels Can Control

47:00 Asset Value, Appraisals, and Resilience

50:00 Inc. 500, Cambridge, and the Road Ahead

52:00 How to Connect with MindClick


Quote of the Show:

"Today's suppliers need to understand that they're no longer just selling a product. They're selling a product with a story." - JoAnna Abrams


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


#DefiningHospitality #Sustainability #HospitalityDesign #HotelBusiness #GreenHospitality #SupplyChain #MindClick #CorporateTravel #HotelRevenue

]]> This Earth Day, Dan Ryan welcomes back JoAnna Abrams, founder and CEO of MindClick, to make the case that sustainability isn't just good for the planet, it's good for business. JoAnna reveals how MindClick's product intelligence platform transforms the sustainability data already hiding in hotel FF&E purchases into a competitive weapon, winning corporate travel contracts, boosting sustainability ratings, and growing real revenue. With stories from the ground, including Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf, and eye-opening stats on what ditching polystyrene packaging actually means for waste, this episode proves that going green and going profitable are finally pointing in the same direction. 🌍


About the Guest:

JoAnna Abrams is the founder and CEO of MindClick, a product intelligence platform helping hospitality companies unlock sustainability data across their supply chains. A multi-award winning trailblazer at the intersection of sustainability, supply chain, and finance, she has been recognized by Lodging Magazine as a female industry innovator, named a 2026 Inc. 500 Female Founders honoree, and selected for both the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership and the Imagine Program funded by former Unilever CEO Paul Polman.

Chapters:

00:46 Welcome JoAnna Abrams

02:00 Defining Hospitality Revisited

05:00 The ROI of Sustainability

07:30 EU Regulation Driving Corporate Demand

11:00 How Hotels Win Corporate Business with Sustainability

14:00 MindClick and Green Key Global

16:00 The Alo Index Platform Explained

19:00 Revenue Impact: 7–17% Market Share Increase

22:00 Training Sales Teams to Tell the Story

25:00 A Riskless Path for Hotel Owners

28:00 Connecting Guests and Frontline Staff

31:00 The Huntington Hotel Case Study

36:00 Polystyrene Elimination: The Numbers

40:00 Embodied Carbon and FF&E's Outsized Impact

44:00 What Hotels Can Control

47:00 Asset Value, Appraisals, and Resilience

50:00 Inc. 500, Cambridge, and the Road Ahead

52:00 How to Connect with MindClick


Quote of the Show:

"Today's suppliers need to understand that they're no longer just selling a product. They're selling a product with a story." - JoAnna Abrams


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


#DefiningHospitality #Sustainability #HospitalityDesign #HotelBusiness #GreenHospitality #SupplyChain #MindClick #CorporateTravel #HotelRevenue

]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3328 This Earth Day, Dan Ryan welcomes back JoAnna Abrams, founder and CEO of MindClick, to make the case that sustainability isn't just good for the planet, it's good for business. JoAnna reveals how MindClick's product intelligence platform transforms the sustainability data already hiding in hotel FF&E purchases into a competitive weapon, winning corporate travel contracts, boosting sustainability ratings, and growing real revenue. With stories from the ground, including Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf, and eye-opening stats on what ditching polystyrene packaging actually means for waste, this episode proves that going green and going profitable are finally pointing in the same direction. 🌍


About the Guest:

JoAnna Abrams is the founder and CEO of MindClick, a product intelligence platform helping hospitality companies unlock sustainability data across their supply chains. A multi-award winning trailblazer at the intersection of sustainability, supply chain, and finance, she has been recognized by Lodging Magazine as a female industry innovator, named a 2026 Inc. 500 Female Founders honoree, and selected for both the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership and the Imagine Program funded by former Unilever CEO Paul Polman.

Chapters:

00:46 Welcome JoAnna Abrams

02:00 Defining Hospitality Revisited

05:00 The ROI of Sustainability

07:30 EU Regulation Driving Corporate Demand

11:00 How Hotels Win Corporate Business with Sustainability

14:00 MindClick and Green Key Global

16:00 The Alo Index Platform Explained

19:00 Revenue Impact: 7–17% Market Share Increase

22:00 Training Sales Teams to Tell the Story

25:00 A Riskless Path for Hotel Owners

28:00 Connecting Guests and Frontline Staff

31:00 The Huntington Hotel Case Study

36:00 Polystyrene Elimination: The Numbers

40:00 Embodied Carbon and FF&E's Outsized Impact

44:00 What Hotels Can Control

47:00 Asset Value, Appraisals, and Resilience

50:00 Inc. 500, Cambridge, and the Road Ahead

52:00 How to Connect with MindClick


Quote of the Show:

"Today's suppliers need to understand that they're no longer just selling a product. They're selling a product with a story." - JoAnna Abrams


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


#DefiningHospitality #Sustainability #HospitalityDesign #HotelBusiness #GreenHospitality #SupplyChain #MindClick #CorporateTravel #HotelRevenue

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Serena Johnson Beyond the Front Desk - Walter Peseski - Defining Hospitality 247 247 Beyond the Front Desk - Walter Peseski - Defining Hospitality full 121dd0de-8e02-4aaf-8e80-da1c4203a851 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0ec24b0 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Walter Peseski, Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, to explore the often misunderstood world of hotel asset management and public private partnerships. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how cities, universities, and hospitals are leveraging creative financing structures to build hotels that serve as economic catalysts for entire communities.


About the Guest:

Walter Peseski is the Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, a firm specializing in public private partnerships for hotels, convention centers, and cultural infrastructure. With over 20 years of experience in hotel operations and asset management, Walter has built a career bridging the gap between public entities and private developers to bring transformative hospitality projects to life. An adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University and contributor to Hotels Magazine, Walter is passionate about educating the next generation on the full scope of opportunity that exists within the hospitality industry that goes far beyond the front desk.


Chapters:

01:00  Introducing Walter Peseski

02:00 What Does Hospitality Mean to You?

03:00 The Valentine's Day Server Story

05:00 When Was the Last Time Service Was Memorable?

06:00 What Makes Garfield Public Private Unique?

09:00 The Role of Asset Management vs. Hotel Management Companies

13:00 How Ownership Groups Get Involved

15:00 When Does Third Party Asset Management Make Sense?

17:00 Hotels Are a Different Beast Than Multifamily

19:00 Navigating Brand Standards & CapEx

21:00 Hilton's Carrot and Stick Fee Structure

23:00 Downscaling Brands & the "Under Demolished" Theory

27:00 Blind Spots Small Operators Miss

29:00 The F&B Double Edged Sword

33:00 When Brand Standards Become a Straitjacket

34:00 What Makes a Good Deal vs. a Great Deal in Public Private

36:00 Why Cities Invest in Hotels

38:00 Where Garfield Is Seeing the Most Opportunity

39:00 How Cities Finance These Projects With Bonds

42:00 The Sweet Spot: Upscale to Upper Upscale

43:00 Why Walter Started Teaching

45:00 Career Advice for Anyone Entering Hospitality

49:00 What Walter Is Most Excited About

51:00 How to Connect With Walter & Outro


Quote of the Show:

"It's not how fast can we increase the value of this hotel and flip it. It's how can this hotel contribute to the community." - Walter Peseski


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:

Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #AssetManagement #PublicPrivatePartnership #HotelDevelopment #HospitalityBusiness #HotelInvestment


]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Walter Peseski, Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, to explore the often misunderstood world of hotel asset management and public private partnerships. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how cities, universities, and hospitals are leveraging creative financing structures to build hotels that serve as economic catalysts for entire communities.


About the Guest:

Walter Peseski is the Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, a firm specializing in public private partnerships for hotels, convention centers, and cultural infrastructure. With over 20 years of experience in hotel operations and asset management, Walter has built a career bridging the gap between public entities and private developers to bring transformative hospitality projects to life. An adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University and contributor to Hotels Magazine, Walter is passionate about educating the next generation on the full scope of opportunity that exists within the hospitality industry that goes far beyond the front desk.


Chapters:

01:00  Introducing Walter Peseski

02:00 What Does Hospitality Mean to You?

03:00 The Valentine's Day Server Story

05:00 When Was the Last Time Service Was Memorable?

06:00 What Makes Garfield Public Private Unique?

09:00 The Role of Asset Management vs. Hotel Management Companies

13:00 How Ownership Groups Get Involved

15:00 When Does Third Party Asset Management Make Sense?

17:00 Hotels Are a Different Beast Than Multifamily

19:00 Navigating Brand Standards & CapEx

21:00 Hilton's Carrot and Stick Fee Structure

23:00 Downscaling Brands & the "Under Demolished" Theory

27:00 Blind Spots Small Operators Miss

29:00 The F&B Double Edged Sword

33:00 When Brand Standards Become a Straitjacket

34:00 What Makes a Good Deal vs. a Great Deal in Public Private

36:00 Why Cities Invest in Hotels

38:00 Where Garfield Is Seeing the Most Opportunity

39:00 How Cities Finance These Projects With Bonds

42:00 The Sweet Spot: Upscale to Upper Upscale

43:00 Why Walter Started Teaching

45:00 Career Advice for Anyone Entering Hospitality

49:00 What Walter Is Most Excited About

51:00 How to Connect With Walter & Outro


Quote of the Show:

"It's not how fast can we increase the value of this hotel and flip it. It's how can this hotel contribute to the community." - Walter Peseski


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:

Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #AssetManagement #PublicPrivatePartnership #HotelDevelopment #HospitalityBusiness #HotelInvestment


]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3147 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Walter Peseski, Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, to explore the often misunderstood world of hotel asset management and public private partnerships. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how cities, universities, and hospitals are leveraging creative financing structures to build hotels that serve as economic catalysts for entire communities.


About the Guest:

Walter Peseski is the Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, a firm specializing in public private partnerships for hotels, convention centers, and cultural infrastructure. With over 20 years of experience in hotel operations and asset management, Walter has built a career bridging the gap between public entities and private developers to bring transformative hospitality projects to life. An adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University and contributor to Hotels Magazine, Walter is passionate about educating the next generation on the full scope of opportunity that exists within the hospitality industry that goes far beyond the front desk.


Chapters:

01:00  Introducing Walter Peseski

02:00 What Does Hospitality Mean to You?

03:00 The Valentine's Day Server Story

05:00 When Was the Last Time Service Was Memorable?

06:00 What Makes Garfield Public Private Unique?

09:00 The Role of Asset Management vs. Hotel Management Companies

13:00 How Ownership Groups Get Involved

15:00 When Does Third Party Asset Management Make Sense?

17:00 Hotels Are a Different Beast Than Multifamily

19:00 Navigating Brand Standards & CapEx

21:00 Hilton's Carrot and Stick Fee Structure

23:00 Downscaling Brands & the "Under Demolished" Theory

27:00 Blind Spots Small Operators Miss

29:00 The F&B Double Edged Sword

33:00 When Brand Standards Become a Straitjacket

34:00 What Makes a Good Deal vs. a Great Deal in Public Private

36:00 Why Cities Invest in Hotels

38:00 Where Garfield Is Seeing the Most Opportunity

39:00 How Cities Finance These Projects With Bonds

42:00 The Sweet Spot: Upscale to Upper Upscale

43:00 Why Walter Started Teaching

45:00 Career Advice for Anyone Entering Hospitality

49:00 What Walter Is Most Excited About

51:00 How to Connect With Walter & Outro


Quote of the Show:

"It's not how fast can we increase the value of this hotel and flip it. It's how can this hotel contribute to the community." - Walter Peseski


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:

Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #AssetManagement #PublicPrivatePartnership #HotelDevelopment #HospitalityBusiness #HotelInvestment


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Serena Johnson The Art of Anticipation - Ed Bakos - Defining Hospitality 246 246 The Art of Anticipation - Ed Bakos - Defining Hospitality full 2cf9ca6e-6fe2-4b02-a573-d9739a5cb9cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/60816b86 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ed Bakos, CEO of Champalimaud Design, to explore the evolving dimensions of hospitality in the design world. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how the nuances of design, from emotional exchanges to anticipating guest needs, define luxury and authenticity in the hospitality industry today.


About the Guest:

Ed Bakos is the CEO of Champalimaud Design, a New York-based firm renowned for its innovative approach to hospitality design. With over 30 years of experience, Ed has continually pushed the boundaries of what luxury and hospitality can achieve through strategic and emotionally resonant design. His commitment to fostering talented teams and creating memorable experiences makes his work a benchmark in the industry.


Chapters:

00:46 Welcome Ed Bakos

02:12 What Hospitality Means

04:04 Early Career Origins

07:30 First W Hotel Breakthrough

11:07 Heavenly Bed Innovation

14:13 Alexandra Legacy

18:31 Mosaic Team Culture

24:49 Flat Hierarchy Best Ideas

27:20 Project Example Clarity

28:29 Ideas From Anywhere

29:10 Designing Anticipated Needs

31:23 Service Defines Luxury

32:44 Turning Constraints Into Magic

34:59 Building A Creative Culture

37:02 Managing Creative Anxiety

40:47 Choosing The Right Clients

44:29 Aviation Passion And Purpose

49:08 Flying The C47 Across Atlantic

50:58 Remembering History And Closing


Quote of the Show:

"Design is a relationship between different things. Why do certain combinations of things provide us with more satisfaction? Certain combinations in certain settings are… highly successful and can be highly successful." - Ed Bakos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #DesignAnticipation #HotelInnovation


]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ed Bakos, CEO of Champalimaud Design, to explore the evolving dimensions of hospitality in the design world. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how the nuances of design, from emotional exchanges to anticipating guest needs, define luxury and authenticity in the hospitality industry today.


About the Guest:

Ed Bakos is the CEO of Champalimaud Design, a New York-based firm renowned for its innovative approach to hospitality design. With over 30 years of experience, Ed has continually pushed the boundaries of what luxury and hospitality can achieve through strategic and emotionally resonant design. His commitment to fostering talented teams and creating memorable experiences makes his work a benchmark in the industry.


Chapters:

00:46 Welcome Ed Bakos

02:12 What Hospitality Means

04:04 Early Career Origins

07:30 First W Hotel Breakthrough

11:07 Heavenly Bed Innovation

14:13 Alexandra Legacy

18:31 Mosaic Team Culture

24:49 Flat Hierarchy Best Ideas

27:20 Project Example Clarity

28:29 Ideas From Anywhere

29:10 Designing Anticipated Needs

31:23 Service Defines Luxury

32:44 Turning Constraints Into Magic

34:59 Building A Creative Culture

37:02 Managing Creative Anxiety

40:47 Choosing The Right Clients

44:29 Aviation Passion And Purpose

49:08 Flying The C47 Across Atlantic

50:58 Remembering History And Closing


Quote of the Show:

"Design is a relationship between different things. Why do certain combinations of things provide us with more satisfaction? Certain combinations in certain settings are… highly successful and can be highly successful." - Ed Bakos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #DesignAnticipation #HotelInnovation


]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3363 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ed Bakos, CEO of Champalimaud Design, to explore the evolving dimensions of hospitality in the design world. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how the nuances of design, from emotional exchanges to anticipating guest needs, define luxury and authenticity in the hospitality industry today.


About the Guest:

Ed Bakos is the CEO of Champalimaud Design, a New York-based firm renowned for its innovative approach to hospitality design. With over 30 years of experience, Ed has continually pushed the boundaries of what luxury and hospitality can achieve through strategic and emotionally resonant design. His commitment to fostering talented teams and creating memorable experiences makes his work a benchmark in the industry.


Chapters:

00:46 Welcome Ed Bakos

02:12 What Hospitality Means

04:04 Early Career Origins

07:30 First W Hotel Breakthrough

11:07 Heavenly Bed Innovation

14:13 Alexandra Legacy

18:31 Mosaic Team Culture

24:49 Flat Hierarchy Best Ideas

27:20 Project Example Clarity

28:29 Ideas From Anywhere

29:10 Designing Anticipated Needs

31:23 Service Defines Luxury

32:44 Turning Constraints Into Magic

34:59 Building A Creative Culture

37:02 Managing Creative Anxiety

40:47 Choosing The Right Clients

44:29 Aviation Passion And Purpose

49:08 Flying The C47 Across Atlantic

50:58 Remembering History And Closing


Quote of the Show:

"Design is a relationship between different things. Why do certain combinations of things provide us with more satisfaction? Certain combinations in certain settings are… highly successful and can be highly successful." - Ed Bakos


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #DesignAnticipation #HotelInnovation


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No What the K-Wave Means for Hotel and Restaurant Design - Thomas Oh & Daphne Shin - Defining Hospitality 245 245 What the K-Wave Means for Hotel and Restaurant Design - Thomas Oh & Daphne Shin - Defining Hospitality full 32c57792-3328-4b18-9e36-018ad50338aa https://share.transistor.fm/s/ac8263a7 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Thomas Oh, Co-Founder & General Manager of Perilla Korean American Steakhouse, and Daphne Shin, Founder & Principal Designer of the Ruimte, two passionate creators working at the intersection of culture, cuisine, and design. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, the episode delves into the unique approach Thomas and Daphne take to blend Korean cultural elements into their business ventures in Chicago.


About the Guests:

Thomas Oh is the co-founder and director of operations at Perilla Korean American Steakhouse. With a mission to introduce Korean culture through dining experiences, Thomas highlights the seamless integration of Korean and American culinary elements at Perilla.


Daphne Shin is the founder and principal designer of the Ruimte, an interior design firm. Through her design work at L7 Hotel, Daphne strives to create environments where every guest, regardless of background, feels at home.


Chapters:

02:26 Defining Hospitality

04:38 Building L7 Chicago

06:33 Designing Perilla Steakhouse

15:26 Korean DNA in the Hotel

19:40 Reception in Chicago

24:49 The K Wave Momentum

27:28 Entrepreneur Lessons

30:08 Teamwork Solves Problems

30:43 Exhaust System Collaboration

32:13 Sponsor Sustainability Note

32:48 Immigrant Path to Hospitality

34:56 Little Victories in Service

38:17 Design vs Operations Reality

42:15 Dream Projects and Timelessness

46:35 Hotel and Restaurant Synergy

49:43 How Lotte Found Them

51:09 Luck Meets Hard Work

53:27 Closing Thanks and Farewell


Quote of the Show:

"It's exciting for me and for the team here, for them to come into our space… We're not screaming this is Korean to them, but they're loving the design of this restaurant and the hotel." - Thomas Oh


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#hospitality #Koreancuisine #design #Kwave #defininghospitality #podcasting #ChicagoDining


]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Thomas Oh, Co-Founder & General Manager of Perilla Korean American Steakhouse, and Daphne Shin, Founder & Principal Designer of the Ruimte, two passionate creators working at the intersection of culture, cuisine, and design. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, the episode delves into the unique approach Thomas and Daphne take to blend Korean cultural elements into their business ventures in Chicago.


About the Guests:

Thomas Oh is the co-founder and director of operations at Perilla Korean American Steakhouse. With a mission to introduce Korean culture through dining experiences, Thomas highlights the seamless integration of Korean and American culinary elements at Perilla.


Daphne Shin is the founder and principal designer of the Ruimte, an interior design firm. Through her design work at L7 Hotel, Daphne strives to create environments where every guest, regardless of background, feels at home.


Chapters:

02:26 Defining Hospitality

04:38 Building L7 Chicago

06:33 Designing Perilla Steakhouse

15:26 Korean DNA in the Hotel

19:40 Reception in Chicago

24:49 The K Wave Momentum

27:28 Entrepreneur Lessons

30:08 Teamwork Solves Problems

30:43 Exhaust System Collaboration

32:13 Sponsor Sustainability Note

32:48 Immigrant Path to Hospitality

34:56 Little Victories in Service

38:17 Design vs Operations Reality

42:15 Dream Projects and Timelessness

46:35 Hotel and Restaurant Synergy

49:43 How Lotte Found Them

51:09 Luck Meets Hard Work

53:27 Closing Thanks and Farewell


Quote of the Show:

"It's exciting for me and for the team here, for them to come into our space… We're not screaming this is Korean to them, but they're loving the design of this restaurant and the hotel." - Thomas Oh


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#hospitality #Koreancuisine #design #Kwave #defininghospitality #podcasting #ChicagoDining


]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3304 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Thomas Oh, Co-Founder & General Manager of Perilla Korean American Steakhouse, and Daphne Shin, Founder & Principal Designer of the Ruimte, two passionate creators working at the intersection of culture, cuisine, and design. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, the episode delves into the unique approach Thomas and Daphne take to blend Korean cultural elements into their business ventures in Chicago.


About the Guests:

Thomas Oh is the co-founder and director of operations at Perilla Korean American Steakhouse. With a mission to introduce Korean culture through dining experiences, Thomas highlights the seamless integration of Korean and American culinary elements at Perilla.


Daphne Shin is the founder and principal designer of the Ruimte, an interior design firm. Through her design work at L7 Hotel, Daphne strives to create environments where every guest, regardless of background, feels at home.


Chapters:

02:26 Defining Hospitality

04:38 Building L7 Chicago

06:33 Designing Perilla Steakhouse

15:26 Korean DNA in the Hotel

19:40 Reception in Chicago

24:49 The K Wave Momentum

27:28 Entrepreneur Lessons

30:08 Teamwork Solves Problems

30:43 Exhaust System Collaboration

32:13 Sponsor Sustainability Note

32:48 Immigrant Path to Hospitality

34:56 Little Victories in Service

38:17 Design vs Operations Reality

42:15 Dream Projects and Timelessness

46:35 Hotel and Restaurant Synergy

49:43 How Lotte Found Them

51:09 Luck Meets Hard Work

53:27 Closing Thanks and Farewell


Quote of the Show:

"It's exciting for me and for the team here, for them to come into our space… We're not screaming this is Korean to them, but they're loving the design of this restaurant and the hotel." - Thomas Oh


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#hospitality #Koreancuisine #design #Kwave #defininghospitality #podcasting #ChicagoDining


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Curating Luxury Through Sound - Michelangelo L’Acqua - Defining Hospitality 244 244 Curating Luxury Through Sound - Michelangelo L’Acqua - Defining Hospitality full 26176a21-6c6e-462b-9163-38d195fc7977 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab3da90d In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Michaelangelo L’Acqua, a global entertainment director and music/lifestyle branding expert, to discuss hospitality as “infrastructure” built through sound, motifs, and emotional arcs across dayparts. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into shifting luxury expectations, analog-era craft, and mentoring creatives within business-driven environments.


Michelangelo shares how sound serves as the unseen architect in the world of hospitality, crafting emotional journeys for guests. 


About the Guest:

Michaelangelo L'Acqua is a Global Entertainment Director and Founder of his creative strategy agency, L'Acqua Agenzia. With a legacy of working with iconic brands like Virgin Voyages and W Hotels, he brings decades of experience in music branding and luxury lifestyle curation. Known for pioneering concepts like the Sonic Identity Brand Bible, L'Acqua remains a leading voice in integrating sound as a critical component of the hospitality experience, continuously shaping the future of how spaces sound and resonate with their audience.


Chapters:

01:17 Whale Shark Memories

02:51 What Hospitality Means

03:52 Sonic Architect Idea

05:09 Motifs and Brand Magic

07:04 Building a Sonic Bible

10:18 Sound Drives Revenue

12:32 Mentors and Early Grind

14:29 Tom Ford Breakthrough

17:37 From Fashion to Hotels

20:30 Analog Era Work Ethic

23:04 Staying Relevant in Luxury

27:27 Timeless Formulas and Flow

30:57 Building Sonic Brand DNA

33:04 Virgin Voyages Layer Cake

36:59 W Hotel Reinvents Hospitality

39:45 Finding Local Tastemakers

41:29 Mentorship Over Ego

44:44 Sound Beats Brick

48:07 Next Decade Soundtrack

50:49 Timeless Meets New

53:30 Hall of Fame Tangent

55:46 Wrap Up And Connect


Quote of the Show:

"I truly believe that there are moments I can really tap into unconscious feelings within somebody. And if I can do that… you're gonna walk away from that experience and say that was a great night. I don't know why, but it was just special." - Michelangelo L’Acqua


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #SonicArchitect #HotelInnovation

]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Michaelangelo L’Acqua, a global entertainment director and music/lifestyle branding expert, to discuss hospitality as “infrastructure” built through sound, motifs, and emotional arcs across dayparts. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into shifting luxury expectations, analog-era craft, and mentoring creatives within business-driven environments.


Michelangelo shares how sound serves as the unseen architect in the world of hospitality, crafting emotional journeys for guests. 


About the Guest:

Michaelangelo L'Acqua is a Global Entertainment Director and Founder of his creative strategy agency, L'Acqua Agenzia. With a legacy of working with iconic brands like Virgin Voyages and W Hotels, he brings decades of experience in music branding and luxury lifestyle curation. Known for pioneering concepts like the Sonic Identity Brand Bible, L'Acqua remains a leading voice in integrating sound as a critical component of the hospitality experience, continuously shaping the future of how spaces sound and resonate with their audience.


Chapters:

01:17 Whale Shark Memories

02:51 What Hospitality Means

03:52 Sonic Architect Idea

05:09 Motifs and Brand Magic

07:04 Building a Sonic Bible

10:18 Sound Drives Revenue

12:32 Mentors and Early Grind

14:29 Tom Ford Breakthrough

17:37 From Fashion to Hotels

20:30 Analog Era Work Ethic

23:04 Staying Relevant in Luxury

27:27 Timeless Formulas and Flow

30:57 Building Sonic Brand DNA

33:04 Virgin Voyages Layer Cake

36:59 W Hotel Reinvents Hospitality

39:45 Finding Local Tastemakers

41:29 Mentorship Over Ego

44:44 Sound Beats Brick

48:07 Next Decade Soundtrack

50:49 Timeless Meets New

53:30 Hall of Fame Tangent

55:46 Wrap Up And Connect


Quote of the Show:

"I truly believe that there are moments I can really tap into unconscious feelings within somebody. And if I can do that… you're gonna walk away from that experience and say that was a great night. I don't know why, but it was just special." - Michelangelo L’Acqua


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #SonicArchitect #HotelInnovation

]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3425 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Michaelangelo L’Acqua, a global entertainment director and music/lifestyle branding expert, to discuss hospitality as “infrastructure” built through sound, motifs, and emotional arcs across dayparts. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into shifting luxury expectations, analog-era craft, and mentoring creatives within business-driven environments.


Michelangelo shares how sound serves as the unseen architect in the world of hospitality, crafting emotional journeys for guests. 


About the Guest:

Michaelangelo L'Acqua is a Global Entertainment Director and Founder of his creative strategy agency, L'Acqua Agenzia. With a legacy of working with iconic brands like Virgin Voyages and W Hotels, he brings decades of experience in music branding and luxury lifestyle curation. Known for pioneering concepts like the Sonic Identity Brand Bible, L'Acqua remains a leading voice in integrating sound as a critical component of the hospitality experience, continuously shaping the future of how spaces sound and resonate with their audience.


Chapters:

01:17 Whale Shark Memories

02:51 What Hospitality Means

03:52 Sonic Architect Idea

05:09 Motifs and Brand Magic

07:04 Building a Sonic Bible

10:18 Sound Drives Revenue

12:32 Mentors and Early Grind

14:29 Tom Ford Breakthrough

17:37 From Fashion to Hotels

20:30 Analog Era Work Ethic

23:04 Staying Relevant in Luxury

27:27 Timeless Formulas and Flow

30:57 Building Sonic Brand DNA

33:04 Virgin Voyages Layer Cake

36:59 W Hotel Reinvents Hospitality

39:45 Finding Local Tastemakers

41:29 Mentorship Over Ego

44:44 Sound Beats Brick

48:07 Next Decade Soundtrack

50:49 Timeless Meets New

53:30 Hall of Fame Tangent

55:46 Wrap Up And Connect


Quote of the Show:

"I truly believe that there are moments I can really tap into unconscious feelings within somebody. And if I can do that… you're gonna walk away from that experience and say that was a great night. I don't know why, but it was just special." - Michelangelo L’Acqua


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #SonicArchitect #HotelInnovation

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Transforming Hospitality for Millennials - Saxton Sharad - Hideaway Inns & Revival Hotels - Episode # 243 243 243 Transforming Hospitality for Millennials - Saxton Sharad - Hideaway Inns & Revival Hotels - Episode # 243 full 87925c09-fd09-45cc-a707-0013466cc1ca https://share.transistor.fm/s/c246ef60 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Saxton Sharad to explore how hospitality and hotel design are evolving for today’s guest experience. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into micro vacations, invisible hospitality, and how modern leadership is reshaping the way hotels connect with travelers.


Saxton shares how Hideaway Inns is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity, frictionless experiences, and thoughtful design to meet the expectations of millennials and Gen Z guests.


About the Guest:

Saxton Sharad is the Founder and CEO of Revival Hotels and Hideaway Inns, where he’s building a portfolio of design-forward boutique properties in destinations like Mount Sunapee, Mount Snow, and Lenox. He previously helped scale Graduate Hotels and has worked across major brands, but is now pioneering a high-margin “invisible hospitality” model that’s delivering additional operating profit across his properties.


Chapters:

01:15 Office Vibes And Intentionality

03:03 Defining Hospitality

05:58 Origins Of The Philosophy

07:51 Unplugging And Micro Breaks

09:18 Hideaway Inns Vision

11:00 Millennial Travel Shift

14:15 Building From Guest Research

17:02 Authenticity And Giving Back

25:59 Invisible Hospitality Platform

30:30 Innkeeper Model Explained

36:11 Owner Economics And Margins

39:58 Lease Deal Sweeteners

40:36 Scale And Tech Advantage

44:35 Innkeeper Career Model

46:53 Fixing Hospitality Turnover

48:15 Design Led Growth Plan

50:00 Fandom And Regional Focus

56:21 Revival Management Focus

58:41 Invisible Or Full Service

01:01:35 Authenticity Through Local Art

01:03:27 Berkshires Travel Pitch

01:07:59 Wrap Up And Thanks


Quote of the Show:

“ I don't care how talented you are or how much money you have in your pocket, you cannot be good at everything. Step into what you're good at, find that strength, and live that strength.” - Saxton Sharad


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #MillennialTravel #BoutiqueHotels #HotelInnovation


]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Saxton Sharad to explore how hospitality and hotel design are evolving for today’s guest experience. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into micro vacations, invisible hospitality, and how modern leadership is reshaping the way hotels connect with travelers.


Saxton shares how Hideaway Inns is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity, frictionless experiences, and thoughtful design to meet the expectations of millennials and Gen Z guests.


About the Guest:

Saxton Sharad is the Founder and CEO of Revival Hotels and Hideaway Inns, where he’s building a portfolio of design-forward boutique properties in destinations like Mount Sunapee, Mount Snow, and Lenox. He previously helped scale Graduate Hotels and has worked across major brands, but is now pioneering a high-margin “invisible hospitality” model that’s delivering additional operating profit across his properties.


Chapters:

01:15 Office Vibes And Intentionality

03:03 Defining Hospitality

05:58 Origins Of The Philosophy

07:51 Unplugging And Micro Breaks

09:18 Hideaway Inns Vision

11:00 Millennial Travel Shift

14:15 Building From Guest Research

17:02 Authenticity And Giving Back

25:59 Invisible Hospitality Platform

30:30 Innkeeper Model Explained

36:11 Owner Economics And Margins

39:58 Lease Deal Sweeteners

40:36 Scale And Tech Advantage

44:35 Innkeeper Career Model

46:53 Fixing Hospitality Turnover

48:15 Design Led Growth Plan

50:00 Fandom And Regional Focus

56:21 Revival Management Focus

58:41 Invisible Or Full Service

01:01:35 Authenticity Through Local Art

01:03:27 Berkshires Travel Pitch

01:07:59 Wrap Up And Thanks


Quote of the Show:

“ I don't care how talented you are or how much money you have in your pocket, you cannot be good at everything. Step into what you're good at, find that strength, and live that strength.” - Saxton Sharad


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #MillennialTravel #BoutiqueHotels #HotelInnovation


]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4136 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Saxton Sharad to explore how hospitality and hotel design are evolving for today’s guest experience. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into micro vacations, invisible hospitality, and how modern leadership is reshaping the way hotels connect with travelers.


Saxton shares how Hideaway Inns is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity, frictionless experiences, and thoughtful design to meet the expectations of millennials and Gen Z guests.


About the Guest:

Saxton Sharad is the Founder and CEO of Revival Hotels and Hideaway Inns, where he’s building a portfolio of design-forward boutique properties in destinations like Mount Sunapee, Mount Snow, and Lenox. He previously helped scale Graduate Hotels and has worked across major brands, but is now pioneering a high-margin “invisible hospitality” model that’s delivering additional operating profit across his properties.


Chapters:

01:15 Office Vibes And Intentionality

03:03 Defining Hospitality

05:58 Origins Of The Philosophy

07:51 Unplugging And Micro Breaks

09:18 Hideaway Inns Vision

11:00 Millennial Travel Shift

14:15 Building From Guest Research

17:02 Authenticity And Giving Back

25:59 Invisible Hospitality Platform

30:30 Innkeeper Model Explained

36:11 Owner Economics And Margins

39:58 Lease Deal Sweeteners

40:36 Scale And Tech Advantage

44:35 Innkeeper Career Model

46:53 Fixing Hospitality Turnover

48:15 Design Led Growth Plan

50:00 Fandom And Regional Focus

56:21 Revival Management Focus

58:41 Invisible Or Full Service

01:01:35 Authenticity Through Local Art

01:03:27 Berkshires Travel Pitch

01:07:59 Wrap Up And Thanks


Quote of the Show:

“ I don't care how talented you are or how much money you have in your pocket, you cannot be good at everything. Step into what you're good at, find that strength, and live that strength.” - Saxton Sharad


Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


Links:


Tags:

#DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #MillennialTravel #BoutiqueHotels #HotelInnovation


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Exploring Data-Driven Trends - Isaac Collazo - STR - Episode # 242 242 242 Exploring Data-Driven Trends - Isaac Collazo - STR - Episode # 242 full 9fabb524-968b-46bc-8b96-3109a6ea4df2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9eb1d53e How does data make the hospitality industry come alive?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Isaac Collazo, the Head of Analytics at STR and Co-Host of "Tell Me More, A Hospitality Data Podcast." They dive into the integral role data plays in the hospitality industry, from informing strategic decisions to influencing how businesses can adapt in changing economic climates.


Takeaways:

  • Utilizing data to enhance operational efficiency. Isaac emphasizes how storytelling through data offers valuable insights that can transform guest experiences and improve service delivery.
  • Hospitality is fundamentally about service. By prioritizing the human connections and interactions, businesses can maintain exceptional service standards, no matter the external economic climate.
  • Recession and inflation directly impact strategies and performance. Isaac discusses how staying informed on economic trends helps businesses anticipate and react to market changes effectively.
  • The growing shift from uniformity to personal experiences. Lifestyle brands are emerging as leaders by catering to unique and individualized guest experiences, setting a new standard in the industry.
  • Food and beverage services are essential revenue drivers. By investing in high-quality F&B experiences, hotels can enhance their appeal and drive overall profitability.
  • The notable and optimistic turn in demand trends. Despite some economic uncertainties, the rising demand suggests a promising future for the hospitality sector.
  • Generational preferences influence loyalty. As guest demographics evolve, hospitality businesses must adapt their strategies to cater to a diverse and changing clientele.


Quote of the Show:

“You want 'em to start with you and stay with you until they no longer travel.” - Isaac Collazo

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> How does data make the hospitality industry come alive?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Isaac Collazo, the Head of Analytics at STR and Co-Host of "Tell Me More, A Hospitality Data Podcast." They dive into the integral role data plays in the hospitality industry, from informing strategic decisions to influencing how businesses can adapt in changing economic climates.


Takeaways:

  • Utilizing data to enhance operational efficiency. Isaac emphasizes how storytelling through data offers valuable insights that can transform guest experiences and improve service delivery.
  • Hospitality is fundamentally about service. By prioritizing the human connections and interactions, businesses can maintain exceptional service standards, no matter the external economic climate.
  • Recession and inflation directly impact strategies and performance. Isaac discusses how staying informed on economic trends helps businesses anticipate and react to market changes effectively.
  • The growing shift from uniformity to personal experiences. Lifestyle brands are emerging as leaders by catering to unique and individualized guest experiences, setting a new standard in the industry.
  • Food and beverage services are essential revenue drivers. By investing in high-quality F&B experiences, hotels can enhance their appeal and drive overall profitability.
  • The notable and optimistic turn in demand trends. Despite some economic uncertainties, the rising demand suggests a promising future for the hospitality sector.
  • Generational preferences influence loyalty. As guest demographics evolve, hospitality businesses must adapt their strategies to cater to a diverse and changing clientele.


Quote of the Show:

“You want 'em to start with you and stay with you until they no longer travel.” - Isaac Collazo

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3719 How does data make the hospitality industry come alive?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Isaac Collazo, the Head of Analytics at STR and Co-Host of "Tell Me More, A Hospitality Data Podcast." They dive into the integral role data plays in the hospitality industry, from informing strategic decisions to influencing how businesses can adapt in changing economic climates.


Takeaways:

  • Utilizing data to enhance operational efficiency. Isaac emphasizes how storytelling through data offers valuable insights that can transform guest experiences and improve service delivery.
  • Hospitality is fundamentally about service. By prioritizing the human connections and interactions, businesses can maintain exceptional service standards, no matter the external economic climate.
  • Recession and inflation directly impact strategies and performance. Isaac discusses how staying informed on economic trends helps businesses anticipate and react to market changes effectively.
  • The growing shift from uniformity to personal experiences. Lifestyle brands are emerging as leaders by catering to unique and individualized guest experiences, setting a new standard in the industry.
  • Food and beverage services are essential revenue drivers. By investing in high-quality F&B experiences, hotels can enhance their appeal and drive overall profitability.
  • The notable and optimistic turn in demand trends. Despite some economic uncertainties, the rising demand suggests a promising future for the hospitality sector.
  • Generational preferences influence loyalty. As guest demographics evolve, hospitality businesses must adapt their strategies to cater to a diverse and changing clientele.


Quote of the Show:

“You want 'em to start with you and stay with you until they no longer travel.” - Isaac Collazo

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Hospitality's Soulful Essence Revealed - Stephanie Hopkins - B2 Design Co - Episode # 241 241 241 Hospitality's Soulful Essence Revealed - Stephanie Hopkins - B2 Design Co - Episode # 241 full 4f3d9a4d-6e17-4714-8987-18d239d24555 https://share.transistor.fm/s/469549c1 How do relationships shape the hospitality industry?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan explores how relationships fundamentally shape the hospitality industry with guest Stephanie Hopkins. As an experienced interior designer and brand specialist, Hopkins shares insights into her extensive career and the essential role that relationships and strategic growth play in navigating the complexities of hospitality.


Takeaways:

  • Relationships often transcend profession. Stephanie explains that once you get involved in hospitality, it's challenging to leave because it becomes ingrained in your soul.
  • Varied experiences can lead to a dynamic career path. Stephanie's journey from design to brand specialist and back highlights the diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry.
  • Relationships hold significant value. Throughout her career, Stephanie learned to leverage relationships and networks, which allowed her to effectively navigate complex brand environments and developer needs, saving valuable time and resources.
  • Brand development ties to long-term success. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding and maintaining a brand's essence, going so far to say 'no' to potential changes that could dilute a brand’s core
  • Diversified portfolios show skill. B2 Design Co’s portfolio spans across multiple sectors like multifamily, senior living, student housing, and hospitality, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive by integrating hospitality concepts into various living environments.
  • Storytelling in design ensures a cohesive experience. Successful projects often have a well-grounded design narrative that is consistently implemented across all stages.


Quote of the Show:

“Being able to ascertain… is that going to compromise the essence of the brand? You have to get to that point and you may have to say no to some really powerful ownership groups.” - Stephanie Hopkins

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do relationships shape the hospitality industry?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan explores how relationships fundamentally shape the hospitality industry with guest Stephanie Hopkins. As an experienced interior designer and brand specialist, Hopkins shares insights into her extensive career and the essential role that relationships and strategic growth play in navigating the complexities of hospitality.


Takeaways:

  • Relationships often transcend profession. Stephanie explains that once you get involved in hospitality, it's challenging to leave because it becomes ingrained in your soul.
  • Varied experiences can lead to a dynamic career path. Stephanie's journey from design to brand specialist and back highlights the diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry.
  • Relationships hold significant value. Throughout her career, Stephanie learned to leverage relationships and networks, which allowed her to effectively navigate complex brand environments and developer needs, saving valuable time and resources.
  • Brand development ties to long-term success. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding and maintaining a brand's essence, going so far to say 'no' to potential changes that could dilute a brand’s core
  • Diversified portfolios show skill. B2 Design Co’s portfolio spans across multiple sectors like multifamily, senior living, student housing, and hospitality, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive by integrating hospitality concepts into various living environments.
  • Storytelling in design ensures a cohesive experience. Successful projects often have a well-grounded design narrative that is consistently implemented across all stages.


Quote of the Show:

“Being able to ascertain… is that going to compromise the essence of the brand? You have to get to that point and you may have to say no to some really powerful ownership groups.” - Stephanie Hopkins

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3387 How do relationships shape the hospitality industry?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan explores how relationships fundamentally shape the hospitality industry with guest Stephanie Hopkins. As an experienced interior designer and brand specialist, Hopkins shares insights into her extensive career and the essential role that relationships and strategic growth play in navigating the complexities of hospitality.


Takeaways:

  • Relationships often transcend profession. Stephanie explains that once you get involved in hospitality, it's challenging to leave because it becomes ingrained in your soul.
  • Varied experiences can lead to a dynamic career path. Stephanie's journey from design to brand specialist and back highlights the diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry.
  • Relationships hold significant value. Throughout her career, Stephanie learned to leverage relationships and networks, which allowed her to effectively navigate complex brand environments and developer needs, saving valuable time and resources.
  • Brand development ties to long-term success. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding and maintaining a brand's essence, going so far to say 'no' to potential changes that could dilute a brand’s core
  • Diversified portfolios show skill. B2 Design Co’s portfolio spans across multiple sectors like multifamily, senior living, student housing, and hospitality, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive by integrating hospitality concepts into various living environments.
  • Storytelling in design ensures a cohesive experience. Successful projects often have a well-grounded design narrative that is consistently implemented across all stages.


Quote of the Show:

“Being able to ascertain… is that going to compromise the essence of the brand? You have to get to that point and you may have to say no to some really powerful ownership groups.” - Stephanie Hopkins

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No East Coast Design Expansion - Amy Margolis - BAMO Providence - Episode # 240 240 240 East Coast Design Expansion - Amy Margolis - BAMO Providence - Episode # 240 full d9115ed4-9a64-4901-a691-23146a51fd2b https://share.transistor.fm/s/605e4f9d How do detailed preparations elevate hospitality experiences?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Margolis, an esteemed interior designer and studio director at Bamo in Providence, Rhode Island. Moving through her career journey from California to the East Coast, Amy shares her thoughts on being deeply rooted in anticipating guests' needs, curating environments that allow people to relax, and creating memorable experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is an orchestrated experience. Amy illustrates hospitality with an anecdote about Joan Didion's meticulously planned dinner parties, emphasizing the importance of preparation to offer effortless and relaxing experiences for guests.
  • A strategic global footprint enhances service delivery. The expansion of Bamo into different regions allows the firm to better serve clients across various time zones, fostering a diverse range of projects that adapt to regional demands.
  • Understanding guest journeys influences design solutions. Drawing from her experience at Bergmeyer, Amy stresses the importance of tailoring design solutions to enhance unique guest experiences, which is crucial for success in hospitality design.
  • Diverse career transitions enrich design perspectives. Amy's shift from hospitality design in San Francisco to commercial design in Boston provided her with a wealth of experience, enriching her current approach in the hospitality sector.
  • Digital adaptation transforms collaborative practices. The shift to remote work during COVID-19, along with the adoption of tools like Revit, has introduced new ways of managing design and fostered improved team collaboration.
  • Continuous learning fosters dynamic leadership. Amy emphasizes the value of staying open to new ideas and mentoring emerging talents, cultivating a resilient and innovative design practice.


Quote of the Show:

“Put yourself out there to say yes, to try new things… the biggest thing is to keep educating yourself.” - Amy Margolis

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do detailed preparations elevate hospitality experiences?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Margolis, an esteemed interior designer and studio director at Bamo in Providence, Rhode Island. Moving through her career journey from California to the East Coast, Amy shares her thoughts on being deeply rooted in anticipating guests' needs, curating environments that allow people to relax, and creating memorable experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is an orchestrated experience. Amy illustrates hospitality with an anecdote about Joan Didion's meticulously planned dinner parties, emphasizing the importance of preparation to offer effortless and relaxing experiences for guests.
  • A strategic global footprint enhances service delivery. The expansion of Bamo into different regions allows the firm to better serve clients across various time zones, fostering a diverse range of projects that adapt to regional demands.
  • Understanding guest journeys influences design solutions. Drawing from her experience at Bergmeyer, Amy stresses the importance of tailoring design solutions to enhance unique guest experiences, which is crucial for success in hospitality design.
  • Diverse career transitions enrich design perspectives. Amy's shift from hospitality design in San Francisco to commercial design in Boston provided her with a wealth of experience, enriching her current approach in the hospitality sector.
  • Digital adaptation transforms collaborative practices. The shift to remote work during COVID-19, along with the adoption of tools like Revit, has introduced new ways of managing design and fostered improved team collaboration.
  • Continuous learning fosters dynamic leadership. Amy emphasizes the value of staying open to new ideas and mentoring emerging talents, cultivating a resilient and innovative design practice.


Quote of the Show:

“Put yourself out there to say yes, to try new things… the biggest thing is to keep educating yourself.” - Amy Margolis

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3377 How do detailed preparations elevate hospitality experiences?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Margolis, an esteemed interior designer and studio director at Bamo in Providence, Rhode Island. Moving through her career journey from California to the East Coast, Amy shares her thoughts on being deeply rooted in anticipating guests' needs, curating environments that allow people to relax, and creating memorable experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is an orchestrated experience. Amy illustrates hospitality with an anecdote about Joan Didion's meticulously planned dinner parties, emphasizing the importance of preparation to offer effortless and relaxing experiences for guests.
  • A strategic global footprint enhances service delivery. The expansion of Bamo into different regions allows the firm to better serve clients across various time zones, fostering a diverse range of projects that adapt to regional demands.
  • Understanding guest journeys influences design solutions. Drawing from her experience at Bergmeyer, Amy stresses the importance of tailoring design solutions to enhance unique guest experiences, which is crucial for success in hospitality design.
  • Diverse career transitions enrich design perspectives. Amy's shift from hospitality design in San Francisco to commercial design in Boston provided her with a wealth of experience, enriching her current approach in the hospitality sector.
  • Digital adaptation transforms collaborative practices. The shift to remote work during COVID-19, along with the adoption of tools like Revit, has introduced new ways of managing design and fostered improved team collaboration.
  • Continuous learning fosters dynamic leadership. Amy emphasizes the value of staying open to new ideas and mentoring emerging talents, cultivating a resilient and innovative design practice.


Quote of the Show:

“Put yourself out there to say yes, to try new things… the biggest thing is to keep educating yourself.” - Amy Margolis

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No The Puzzle of Architecture - Andrew Ashey - AAmp Studio - Episode # 239 239 239 The Puzzle of Architecture - Andrew Ashey - AAmp Studio - Episode # 239 full 66ba687c-6ed8-43ae-a9d1-ac5866cc18d4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b6dc9a28 What does it mean to find joy and creativity in the constraints of adaptive reuse?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Andrew Ashey, Founder and Principal of AAmp Studio, to discuss the expansive nature of hospitality design, the importance of engaging with diverse community elements, and the delightful challenges presented by adaptive reuse.


Takeaways:

  • Architecture is a collaborative puzzle. Andrew finds the challenge of collaboration a central aspect of his practice. Architecture involves working with clients, consultants, and contractors to bring visions to life within existing structures.
  • Context and continuity are vital. Andrew discusses the significance of understanding and preserving the historical context of buildings, particularly in projects like the Municipal Grand in Savannah.
  • Lifelong learning helps the practitioners and the community. Engaging with academic institutions and community organizations allows architects like Andrew to remain at the forefront of design innovation.
  • Approach projects with enthusiasm and creativity. For Andrew, maintaining a balance between professional demands and creative fun is essential.
  • Adaptive reuse champions sustainability. Andrew argues that adaptive reuse is among the most sustainable practices, breathing new life into spaces while preserving their integral stories.
  • Expanding hospitality venues beyond private spaces. Andrew sees these spaces as extensions of the public realm, contributing to the vibrancy of a locality.


Quote of the Show:

“I find architecture and design to be one big puzzle. That’s what I love most about it.” - Andrew Ashey

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does it mean to find joy and creativity in the constraints of adaptive reuse?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Andrew Ashey, Founder and Principal of AAmp Studio, to discuss the expansive nature of hospitality design, the importance of engaging with diverse community elements, and the delightful challenges presented by adaptive reuse.


Takeaways:

  • Architecture is a collaborative puzzle. Andrew finds the challenge of collaboration a central aspect of his practice. Architecture involves working with clients, consultants, and contractors to bring visions to life within existing structures.
  • Context and continuity are vital. Andrew discusses the significance of understanding and preserving the historical context of buildings, particularly in projects like the Municipal Grand in Savannah.
  • Lifelong learning helps the practitioners and the community. Engaging with academic institutions and community organizations allows architects like Andrew to remain at the forefront of design innovation.
  • Approach projects with enthusiasm and creativity. For Andrew, maintaining a balance between professional demands and creative fun is essential.
  • Adaptive reuse champions sustainability. Andrew argues that adaptive reuse is among the most sustainable practices, breathing new life into spaces while preserving their integral stories.
  • Expanding hospitality venues beyond private spaces. Andrew sees these spaces as extensions of the public realm, contributing to the vibrancy of a locality.


Quote of the Show:

“I find architecture and design to be one big puzzle. That’s what I love most about it.” - Andrew Ashey

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 59 What does it mean to find joy and creativity in the constraints of adaptive reuse?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Andrew Ashey, Founder and Principal of AAmp Studio, to discuss the expansive nature of hospitality design, the importance of engaging with diverse community elements, and the delightful challenges presented by adaptive reuse.


Takeaways:

  • Architecture is a collaborative puzzle. Andrew finds the challenge of collaboration a central aspect of his practice. Architecture involves working with clients, consultants, and contractors to bring visions to life within existing structures.
  • Context and continuity are vital. Andrew discusses the significance of understanding and preserving the historical context of buildings, particularly in projects like the Municipal Grand in Savannah.
  • Lifelong learning helps the practitioners and the community. Engaging with academic institutions and community organizations allows architects like Andrew to remain at the forefront of design innovation.
  • Approach projects with enthusiasm and creativity. For Andrew, maintaining a balance between professional demands and creative fun is essential.
  • Adaptive reuse champions sustainability. Andrew argues that adaptive reuse is among the most sustainable practices, breathing new life into spaces while preserving their integral stories.
  • Expanding hospitality venues beyond private spaces. Andrew sees these spaces as extensions of the public realm, contributing to the vibrancy of a locality.


Quote of the Show:

“I find architecture and design to be one big puzzle. That’s what I love most about it.” - Andrew Ashey

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No The Value of Storytelling - Ian Sharpe - NextTrip - Episode # 238 238 238 The Value of Storytelling - Ian Sharpe - NextTrip - Episode # 238 full a97485ae-7d5c-480f-92d2-34b97619d0ff https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a414668 How can travel channels inspire personal growth and global understanding?

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ian Sharpe, the Chief Operating Officer of Media at NextTrip, to explore the transformative power of hospitality and storytelling in the realm of global travel. With a vast experience spanning video games and visual media, Ian delves into the intricate tapestry of how cutting-edge technology, media, and human connection shape the way we experience the world.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about turning strangers into friends. Ian Sharpe emphasizes this historical tradition as the core of Journey TV’s mission to celebrate diverse cultures and connect people globally.
  • Journey TV transforms inspiration into itineraries. By drawing on video game industry techniques, the network integrates storytelling with travel booking for an enriched travel experience.
  • Authenticity drives Journey TV's content. The network focuses on human stories, whether culinary or adventurous, to explore why people travel and engage deeply with viewers.
  • Cultural richness is captured through storytelling. Programs like "Tide" and "Borderless Table" highlight local experiences, providing a comprehensive view of destinations.
  • Technology enhances viewer engagement. Journey TV uses QR codes and AI-driven itineraries to turn inspiration into seamless travel planning.
  • Travel fosters growth and connection. Journey TV promotes travel as a way to build understanding and friendship, supporting Dan’s vision of hospitality as a human bridge.


Quote of the Show:

“A storyteller is all about weaving with the imagination. If you can convert that to commerce, then the shareholders are all the happier.” - Ian Sharpe


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How can travel channels inspire personal growth and global understanding?

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ian Sharpe, the Chief Operating Officer of Media at NextTrip, to explore the transformative power of hospitality and storytelling in the realm of global travel. With a vast experience spanning video games and visual media, Ian delves into the intricate tapestry of how cutting-edge technology, media, and human connection shape the way we experience the world.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about turning strangers into friends. Ian Sharpe emphasizes this historical tradition as the core of Journey TV’s mission to celebrate diverse cultures and connect people globally.
  • Journey TV transforms inspiration into itineraries. By drawing on video game industry techniques, the network integrates storytelling with travel booking for an enriched travel experience.
  • Authenticity drives Journey TV's content. The network focuses on human stories, whether culinary or adventurous, to explore why people travel and engage deeply with viewers.
  • Cultural richness is captured through storytelling. Programs like "Tide" and "Borderless Table" highlight local experiences, providing a comprehensive view of destinations.
  • Technology enhances viewer engagement. Journey TV uses QR codes and AI-driven itineraries to turn inspiration into seamless travel planning.
  • Travel fosters growth and connection. Journey TV promotes travel as a way to build understanding and friendship, supporting Dan’s vision of hospitality as a human bridge.


Quote of the Show:

“A storyteller is all about weaving with the imagination. If you can convert that to commerce, then the shareholders are all the happier.” - Ian Sharpe


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3242 How can travel channels inspire personal growth and global understanding?

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ian Sharpe, the Chief Operating Officer of Media at NextTrip, to explore the transformative power of hospitality and storytelling in the realm of global travel. With a vast experience spanning video games and visual media, Ian delves into the intricate tapestry of how cutting-edge technology, media, and human connection shape the way we experience the world.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about turning strangers into friends. Ian Sharpe emphasizes this historical tradition as the core of Journey TV’s mission to celebrate diverse cultures and connect people globally.
  • Journey TV transforms inspiration into itineraries. By drawing on video game industry techniques, the network integrates storytelling with travel booking for an enriched travel experience.
  • Authenticity drives Journey TV's content. The network focuses on human stories, whether culinary or adventurous, to explore why people travel and engage deeply with viewers.
  • Cultural richness is captured through storytelling. Programs like "Tide" and "Borderless Table" highlight local experiences, providing a comprehensive view of destinations.
  • Technology enhances viewer engagement. Journey TV uses QR codes and AI-driven itineraries to turn inspiration into seamless travel planning.
  • Travel fosters growth and connection. Journey TV promotes travel as a way to build understanding and friendship, supporting Dan’s vision of hospitality as a human bridge.


Quote of the Show:

“A storyteller is all about weaving with the imagination. If you can convert that to commerce, then the shareholders are all the happier.” - Ian Sharpe


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Hospitality’s Innovative Playground - Glenn Nowak - University of Nevada Las Vegas - Episode # 237 237 237 Hospitality’s Innovative Playground - Glenn Nowak - University of Nevada Las Vegas - Episode # 237 full 31463656-0cfb-42d9-bbda-2c3dd1672065 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4d991537 How Can Las Vegas Serve as the Ultimate Architectural Laboratory?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Glen Noack, an accomplished architect and associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), to dive into Glen's extensive experience in architecture and hospitality design. They explore various aspects of radical innovation within the built environment, the unique opportunities Las Vegas offers as a 'living laboratory,' and Glen's involvement in fostering creative design through competitions like Radical Innovation.


Takeaways:

  • Las Vegas is a learning environment. The city serves as an inspiring backdrop for architectural students who can directly interact with cutting-edge designs.
  • Las Vegas’ hospitality goes beyond traditional assumptions. Hospitality design is evolving to include educational and community-focused projects, not just hotels and casinos.
  • The emotional impact is vital. Emotional resonance in architecture is as vital as functional possibility, and this dual focus is a core aspect of education in Las Vegas.
  • Virtual Reality is architecture’s future. The integration of AI and virtual scanning technology in design education provides unique opportunities for creating interactive project models.
  • Community collaboration opens pathways. Collaborations between universities and industries open pathways for projects that transcend traditional hospitality and influence community development.


Quote of the Show:

“There isn’t a formula on how to teach this… if it becomes formulaic, it can’t produce the same aha effect.” - Glenn Nowak

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How Can Las Vegas Serve as the Ultimate Architectural Laboratory?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Glen Noack, an accomplished architect and associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), to dive into Glen's extensive experience in architecture and hospitality design. They explore various aspects of radical innovation within the built environment, the unique opportunities Las Vegas offers as a 'living laboratory,' and Glen's involvement in fostering creative design through competitions like Radical Innovation.


Takeaways:

  • Las Vegas is a learning environment. The city serves as an inspiring backdrop for architectural students who can directly interact with cutting-edge designs.
  • Las Vegas’ hospitality goes beyond traditional assumptions. Hospitality design is evolving to include educational and community-focused projects, not just hotels and casinos.
  • The emotional impact is vital. Emotional resonance in architecture is as vital as functional possibility, and this dual focus is a core aspect of education in Las Vegas.
  • Virtual Reality is architecture’s future. The integration of AI and virtual scanning technology in design education provides unique opportunities for creating interactive project models.
  • Community collaboration opens pathways. Collaborations between universities and industries open pathways for projects that transcend traditional hospitality and influence community development.


Quote of the Show:

“There isn’t a formula on how to teach this… if it becomes formulaic, it can’t produce the same aha effect.” - Glenn Nowak

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3894 How Can Las Vegas Serve as the Ultimate Architectural Laboratory?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Glen Noack, an accomplished architect and associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), to dive into Glen's extensive experience in architecture and hospitality design. They explore various aspects of radical innovation within the built environment, the unique opportunities Las Vegas offers as a 'living laboratory,' and Glen's involvement in fostering creative design through competitions like Radical Innovation.


Takeaways:

  • Las Vegas is a learning environment. The city serves as an inspiring backdrop for architectural students who can directly interact with cutting-edge designs.
  • Las Vegas’ hospitality goes beyond traditional assumptions. Hospitality design is evolving to include educational and community-focused projects, not just hotels and casinos.
  • The emotional impact is vital. Emotional resonance in architecture is as vital as functional possibility, and this dual focus is a core aspect of education in Las Vegas.
  • Virtual Reality is architecture’s future. The integration of AI and virtual scanning technology in design education provides unique opportunities for creating interactive project models.
  • Community collaboration opens pathways. Collaborations between universities and industries open pathways for projects that transcend traditional hospitality and influence community development.


Quote of the Show:

“There isn’t a formula on how to teach this… if it becomes formulaic, it can’t produce the same aha effect.” - Glenn Nowak

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No The Human Side of Hospitality - Chelsea Hershelman - Coral Tree Hospitality - Episode # 236 236 236 The Human Side of Hospitality - Chelsea Hershelman - Coral Tree Hospitality - Episode # 236 full 75b8ac2d-d53b-4bae-99b8-5b895cf4b60e https://share.transistor.fm/s/6020064a Can empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to run toward the fire reshape how leaders design experiences, and careers, in hospitality?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Chelsea Hershelman, VP of Design and Development at Coral Tree Hospitality, to unpack hospitality as an empathetic act and leadership as influence, not authority. From designing for neurodiversity and stressed-out arrivals to taking leaps of faith across a non-linear career path, Chelsea shares how curiosity, courage, and human-centered thinking drive better spaces, stronger teams, and more meaningful guest experiences, without needing perfect credentials or traditional titles.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality starts with empathy, not aesthetics. Great experiences are built by considering the full ecosystem and designing for emotional states, not just how a space looks in photos.
  • The most effective leaders rely on influence, not authority. By building relationships, using humor to help teams “unclench,” and knowing when to listen versus decide.
  • Curiosity beats credentials every time. A background in art history, procurement, and project management became an asset, not a liability, because transferable skills opened doors others never saw.
  • Running toward problems builds momentum and trust. Reframing crises as opportunities to shine, and celebrating quick wins can energize complex projects and establish you as someone who thrives in the arena.
  • Balance isn’t static, it evolves. Sustained leadership requires knowing when to push and when to “take a knee,” prioritizing physical and mental health, and giving yourself grace as your definition of success changes over time.


Quote of the Show:

“To lead by influence is listening, staying curious and asking good questions.” - Chelsea Hershelman


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Can empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to run toward the fire reshape how leaders design experiences, and careers, in hospitality?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Chelsea Hershelman, VP of Design and Development at Coral Tree Hospitality, to unpack hospitality as an empathetic act and leadership as influence, not authority. From designing for neurodiversity and stressed-out arrivals to taking leaps of faith across a non-linear career path, Chelsea shares how curiosity, courage, and human-centered thinking drive better spaces, stronger teams, and more meaningful guest experiences, without needing perfect credentials or traditional titles.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality starts with empathy, not aesthetics. Great experiences are built by considering the full ecosystem and designing for emotional states, not just how a space looks in photos.
  • The most effective leaders rely on influence, not authority. By building relationships, using humor to help teams “unclench,” and knowing when to listen versus decide.
  • Curiosity beats credentials every time. A background in art history, procurement, and project management became an asset, not a liability, because transferable skills opened doors others never saw.
  • Running toward problems builds momentum and trust. Reframing crises as opportunities to shine, and celebrating quick wins can energize complex projects and establish you as someone who thrives in the arena.
  • Balance isn’t static, it evolves. Sustained leadership requires knowing when to push and when to “take a knee,” prioritizing physical and mental health, and giving yourself grace as your definition of success changes over time.


Quote of the Show:

“To lead by influence is listening, staying curious and asking good questions.” - Chelsea Hershelman


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3421 Can empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to run toward the fire reshape how leaders design experiences, and careers, in hospitality?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Chelsea Hershelman, VP of Design and Development at Coral Tree Hospitality, to unpack hospitality as an empathetic act and leadership as influence, not authority. From designing for neurodiversity and stressed-out arrivals to taking leaps of faith across a non-linear career path, Chelsea shares how curiosity, courage, and human-centered thinking drive better spaces, stronger teams, and more meaningful guest experiences, without needing perfect credentials or traditional titles.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality starts with empathy, not aesthetics. Great experiences are built by considering the full ecosystem and designing for emotional states, not just how a space looks in photos.
  • The most effective leaders rely on influence, not authority. By building relationships, using humor to help teams “unclench,” and knowing when to listen versus decide.
  • Curiosity beats credentials every time. A background in art history, procurement, and project management became an asset, not a liability, because transferable skills opened doors others never saw.
  • Running toward problems builds momentum and trust. Reframing crises as opportunities to shine, and celebrating quick wins can energize complex projects and establish you as someone who thrives in the arena.
  • Balance isn’t static, it evolves. Sustained leadership requires knowing when to push and when to “take a knee,” prioritizing physical and mental health, and giving yourself grace as your definition of success changes over time.


Quote of the Show:

“To lead by influence is listening, staying curious and asking good questions.” - Chelsea Hershelman


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Leading Through Exploration and Service - Richard Wiese - The Explorer’s Club - Episode # 235 235 235 Leading Through Exploration and Service - Richard Wiese - The Explorer’s Club - Episode # 235 full 9896ec1a-6a75-47d7-a8cd-199b149b734f https://share.transistor.fm/s/704e689f Can exploration, storytelling, and service to others redefine what hospitality really means and why does it start at home?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, Emmy Award–winning TV host, and lifelong explorer. Their conversation spans far beyond travel, unpacking hospitality as a human instinct rooted in curiosity, generosity, and connection. From backyard foraging mishaps to Apollo astronauts’ moon-bound navigation, Richard shares how exploration, conservation, and volunteerism shape leadership, culture, and meaningful guest experiences, without relying on luxury or exotic destinations.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is expressed through universal human languages, food, music, nature, and storytelling, rather than thread count or material luxury.
  • Exploration isn’t about distance; it’s about curiosity. You don’t need Everest or the Serengeti to explore, birding in a city park or foraging in your backyard can spark the same sense of wonder and connection.
  • Leadership means amplifying others, not yourself. Through initiatives like Explorers Club 50, you can challenge leaders to shift from “look at me” to “look who I found,” using their platforms to spotlight emerging changemakers.
  • Small, consistent service creates outsized impact. Whether dedicating 5% of your time to volunteerism or starting a local composting effort, sustained small actions, modeled by Richard and Nikki Wiese, can scale into global change.
  • Everything has a story, from a pencil to a hotel lobby; sharing those narratives authentically deepens emotional connection and transforms experiences into lasting memories.


Quote of the Show:

“Part of the perspective of exploration is also seeing something that you've seen often through a new set of eyes." - Richard Wiese

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Can exploration, storytelling, and service to others redefine what hospitality really means and why does it start at home?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, Emmy Award–winning TV host, and lifelong explorer. Their conversation spans far beyond travel, unpacking hospitality as a human instinct rooted in curiosity, generosity, and connection. From backyard foraging mishaps to Apollo astronauts’ moon-bound navigation, Richard shares how exploration, conservation, and volunteerism shape leadership, culture, and meaningful guest experiences, without relying on luxury or exotic destinations.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is expressed through universal human languages, food, music, nature, and storytelling, rather than thread count or material luxury.
  • Exploration isn’t about distance; it’s about curiosity. You don’t need Everest or the Serengeti to explore, birding in a city park or foraging in your backyard can spark the same sense of wonder and connection.
  • Leadership means amplifying others, not yourself. Through initiatives like Explorers Club 50, you can challenge leaders to shift from “look at me” to “look who I found,” using their platforms to spotlight emerging changemakers.
  • Small, consistent service creates outsized impact. Whether dedicating 5% of your time to volunteerism or starting a local composting effort, sustained small actions, modeled by Richard and Nikki Wiese, can scale into global change.
  • Everything has a story, from a pencil to a hotel lobby; sharing those narratives authentically deepens emotional connection and transforms experiences into lasting memories.


Quote of the Show:

“Part of the perspective of exploration is also seeing something that you've seen often through a new set of eyes." - Richard Wiese

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3391 Can exploration, storytelling, and service to others redefine what hospitality really means and why does it start at home?


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, Emmy Award–winning TV host, and lifelong explorer. Their conversation spans far beyond travel, unpacking hospitality as a human instinct rooted in curiosity, generosity, and connection. From backyard foraging mishaps to Apollo astronauts’ moon-bound navigation, Richard shares how exploration, conservation, and volunteerism shape leadership, culture, and meaningful guest experiences, without relying on luxury or exotic destinations.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is expressed through universal human languages, food, music, nature, and storytelling, rather than thread count or material luxury.
  • Exploration isn’t about distance; it’s about curiosity. You don’t need Everest or the Serengeti to explore, birding in a city park or foraging in your backyard can spark the same sense of wonder and connection.
  • Leadership means amplifying others, not yourself. Through initiatives like Explorers Club 50, you can challenge leaders to shift from “look at me” to “look who I found,” using their platforms to spotlight emerging changemakers.
  • Small, consistent service creates outsized impact. Whether dedicating 5% of your time to volunteerism or starting a local composting effort, sustained small actions, modeled by Richard and Nikki Wiese, can scale into global change.
  • Everything has a story, from a pencil to a hotel lobby; sharing those narratives authentically deepens emotional connection and transforms experiences into lasting memories.


Quote of the Show:

“Part of the perspective of exploration is also seeing something that you've seen often through a new set of eyes." - Richard Wiese

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi The Future of Hospitality Is Intelligent Tech - John Duffield - Radical Innovation - Episode # 234 234 234 The Future of Hospitality Is Intelligent Tech - John Duffield - Radical Innovation - Episode # 234 full 85857a83-f27c-429b-924e-af826bc23e30 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ecd22aa4 How will AI, biometrics, and healthcare thinking redefine hospitality, and what does the future of truly personalized guest experience look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Duffield, a Speaker at Signal Two and an Advisory Board Member at Radical Innovation. They have a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of hospitality, healthcare, and emerging technology. Drawing from his patient experience at Cleveland Clinic and his work at the forefront of AI and biometric innovation, John introduces the concept of “living intelligence,” the convergence of AI, sensors, and biometrics that enables environments to adapt in real time to how guests actually feel.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality and healthcare are deeply connected. Both industries serve people during vulnerable moments, and both succeed when personalization, empathy, and care are prioritized. 
  • AI combined with biometrics and sensors can create environments that adapt in real time, adjusting lighting, temperature, nutrition, and schedules based on how guests are actually feeling, not static preferences.
  • Guests are willing to share personal and biometric data when the value exchange is clear, immediate, and user-controlled. Privacy must be transparent, opt-in, and flexible, more like “airplane mode” than all-or-nothing consent.
  • Smaller scale, faster decision-making, and closer guest relationships make independents and luxury properties ideal testing grounds for advanced technology, insights that will eventually scale to larger brands.
  • The best tech disappears into the experience, enhancing how guests feel without being noticed. Responsible AI development, clear guardrails, and human-centered design are essential to avoid repeating past digital mistakes.


Quote of the Show:

“Do you want to sit in the status quo and hope that you just survive and thrive? Or do you want to lean into what's next in this next phase of guest experience?" - John Duffield


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How will AI, biometrics, and healthcare thinking redefine hospitality, and what does the future of truly personalized guest experience look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Duffield, a Speaker at Signal Two and an Advisory Board Member at Radical Innovation. They have a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of hospitality, healthcare, and emerging technology. Drawing from his patient experience at Cleveland Clinic and his work at the forefront of AI and biometric innovation, John introduces the concept of “living intelligence,” the convergence of AI, sensors, and biometrics that enables environments to adapt in real time to how guests actually feel.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality and healthcare are deeply connected. Both industries serve people during vulnerable moments, and both succeed when personalization, empathy, and care are prioritized. 
  • AI combined with biometrics and sensors can create environments that adapt in real time, adjusting lighting, temperature, nutrition, and schedules based on how guests are actually feeling, not static preferences.
  • Guests are willing to share personal and biometric data when the value exchange is clear, immediate, and user-controlled. Privacy must be transparent, opt-in, and flexible, more like “airplane mode” than all-or-nothing consent.
  • Smaller scale, faster decision-making, and closer guest relationships make independents and luxury properties ideal testing grounds for advanced technology, insights that will eventually scale to larger brands.
  • The best tech disappears into the experience, enhancing how guests feel without being noticed. Responsible AI development, clear guardrails, and human-centered design are essential to avoid repeating past digital mistakes.


Quote of the Show:

“Do you want to sit in the status quo and hope that you just survive and thrive? Or do you want to lean into what's next in this next phase of guest experience?" - John Duffield


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3770 How will AI, biometrics, and healthcare thinking redefine hospitality, and what does the future of truly personalized guest experience look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Duffield, a Speaker at Signal Two and an Advisory Board Member at Radical Innovation. They have a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of hospitality, healthcare, and emerging technology. Drawing from his patient experience at Cleveland Clinic and his work at the forefront of AI and biometric innovation, John introduces the concept of “living intelligence,” the convergence of AI, sensors, and biometrics that enables environments to adapt in real time to how guests actually feel.


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality and healthcare are deeply connected. Both industries serve people during vulnerable moments, and both succeed when personalization, empathy, and care are prioritized. 
  • AI combined with biometrics and sensors can create environments that adapt in real time, adjusting lighting, temperature, nutrition, and schedules based on how guests are actually feeling, not static preferences.
  • Guests are willing to share personal and biometric data when the value exchange is clear, immediate, and user-controlled. Privacy must be transparent, opt-in, and flexible, more like “airplane mode” than all-or-nothing consent.
  • Smaller scale, faster decision-making, and closer guest relationships make independents and luxury properties ideal testing grounds for advanced technology, insights that will eventually scale to larger brands.
  • The best tech disappears into the experience, enhancing how guests feel without being noticed. Responsible AI development, clear guardrails, and human-centered design are essential to avoid repeating past digital mistakes.


Quote of the Show:

“Do you want to sit in the status quo and hope that you just survive and thrive? Or do you want to lean into what's next in this next phase of guest experience?" - John Duffield


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Building Resilient Hotel Investment Models - Hugh Taylor - Michels & Taylor - Episode # 233 233 233 Building Resilient Hotel Investment Models - Hugh Taylor - Michels & Taylor - Episode # 233 full 267c800a-ae4b-42a3-8645-8c6e92307d56 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b13975da How do you build a global hospitality business without losing the personal touch, resilience, or trust that defines great service?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, hospitality, and hotel investment. Hugh shares his journey from marketing roles at major hotel brands like Hilton to becoming one of the most respected voices in hotel asset management and advisory. They explore what true hospitality really means, how Michels & Taylor’s integrated “flywheel” business model creates resilience, and what it takes to lead transparently through crises like the 2008 financial crash and COVID-19. 


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is personal. Great service comes from making every guest, client, or partner feel uniquely valued and understood.
  • Build perspective through experience. Exposure to marketing, operations, and investment creates stronger, more balanced leaders.
  • Design for resilience. Integrated and diversified business models are better equipped to survive downturns and volatility.
  • Lead with transparency. Honest, direct communication builds long-term trust with investors, banks, and teams.
  • Expect complexity in growth. Global operations demand deep understanding of local regulations, labor laws, and market dynamics.
  • Adapt to industry shifts. Brand and franchise models, rising costs, and capital needs are reshaping hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“If you don’t take advice and get the right people next to you, you can lose your money as easily as you make it.” - Hugh Taylor


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you build a global hospitality business without losing the personal touch, resilience, or trust that defines great service?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, hospitality, and hotel investment. Hugh shares his journey from marketing roles at major hotel brands like Hilton to becoming one of the most respected voices in hotel asset management and advisory. They explore what true hospitality really means, how Michels & Taylor’s integrated “flywheel” business model creates resilience, and what it takes to lead transparently through crises like the 2008 financial crash and COVID-19. 


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is personal. Great service comes from making every guest, client, or partner feel uniquely valued and understood.
  • Build perspective through experience. Exposure to marketing, operations, and investment creates stronger, more balanced leaders.
  • Design for resilience. Integrated and diversified business models are better equipped to survive downturns and volatility.
  • Lead with transparency. Honest, direct communication builds long-term trust with investors, banks, and teams.
  • Expect complexity in growth. Global operations demand deep understanding of local regulations, labor laws, and market dynamics.
  • Adapt to industry shifts. Brand and franchise models, rising costs, and capital needs are reshaping hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“If you don’t take advice and get the right people next to you, you can lose your money as easily as you make it.” - Hugh Taylor


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4515 How do you build a global hospitality business without losing the personal touch, resilience, or trust that defines great service?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, hospitality, and hotel investment. Hugh shares his journey from marketing roles at major hotel brands like Hilton to becoming one of the most respected voices in hotel asset management and advisory. They explore what true hospitality really means, how Michels & Taylor’s integrated “flywheel” business model creates resilience, and what it takes to lead transparently through crises like the 2008 financial crash and COVID-19. 


Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is personal. Great service comes from making every guest, client, or partner feel uniquely valued and understood.
  • Build perspective through experience. Exposure to marketing, operations, and investment creates stronger, more balanced leaders.
  • Design for resilience. Integrated and diversified business models are better equipped to survive downturns and volatility.
  • Lead with transparency. Honest, direct communication builds long-term trust with investors, banks, and teams.
  • Expect complexity in growth. Global operations demand deep understanding of local regulations, labor laws, and market dynamics.
  • Adapt to industry shifts. Brand and franchise models, rising costs, and capital needs are reshaping hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“If you don’t take advice and get the right people next to you, you can lose your money as easily as you make it.” - Hugh Taylor


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Hospitality Starts With People - Thomas Healy - Rockbridge Hospitality Management - Re-Air 232 232 Hospitality Starts With People - Thomas Healy - Rockbridge Hospitality Management - Re-Air full d9ed2e9f-bd22-4a07-9c5a-e3261abcd2ec https://share.transistor.fm/s/864a9b40 On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit an insightful conversation on people-first leadership, authentic culture, and the true meaning of hospitality with Thomas Healy, President and COO of Rockbridge Hospitality Management. With more than 30 years in the industry, Tom shares lessons shaped by his upbringing in a family-run New Jersey supper club and a career spanning independent and branded hotels.

The conversation explores how leadership is rooted in empathy, inclusion, and service. Thomas explains why great leaders focus on making the most uncomfortable person in the room feel comfortable, and how diverse teams drive stronger culture, creativity, and trust. The episode also dives into the power of authenticity, particularly in independent hotels, where flexibility, storytelling, and local connection can create memorable guest experiences and outperform rigid brand standards.


Takeaways:

  • Prioritize human connection in everything you do. Simple gestures, eye contact, a smile, genuine attention, can have an outsized impact on guests and team members.
  • Lead by putting others first. Effective leadership is about service, empathy, and making people feel comfortable, valued, and included.
  • Build and champion diverse teams. Diversity strengthens culture, trust, and performance, and should be treated as a core leadership responsibility.
  • Foster a culture of authenticity and belonging. Create environments where people feel connected to something bigger than themselves.
  • Embrace flexibility and creativity, especially in guest-facing roles. Independent thinking and local authenticity often resonate more deeply than rigid standards.
  • Use technology as a tool, not a replacement for hospitality. Leverage data to identify patterns and improve operations while keeping the human element front and center.
  • Regularly reflect on your “why.” Align your work with your values, use life’s milestones as moments to reassess priorities, and lead with purpose.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple.  It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit an insightful conversation on people-first leadership, authentic culture, and the true meaning of hospitality with Thomas Healy, President and COO of Rockbridge Hospitality Management. With more than 30 years in the industry, Tom shares lessons shaped by his upbringing in a family-run New Jersey supper club and a career spanning independent and branded hotels.

The conversation explores how leadership is rooted in empathy, inclusion, and service. Thomas explains why great leaders focus on making the most uncomfortable person in the room feel comfortable, and how diverse teams drive stronger culture, creativity, and trust. The episode also dives into the power of authenticity, particularly in independent hotels, where flexibility, storytelling, and local connection can create memorable guest experiences and outperform rigid brand standards.


Takeaways:

  • Prioritize human connection in everything you do. Simple gestures, eye contact, a smile, genuine attention, can have an outsized impact on guests and team members.
  • Lead by putting others first. Effective leadership is about service, empathy, and making people feel comfortable, valued, and included.
  • Build and champion diverse teams. Diversity strengthens culture, trust, and performance, and should be treated as a core leadership responsibility.
  • Foster a culture of authenticity and belonging. Create environments where people feel connected to something bigger than themselves.
  • Embrace flexibility and creativity, especially in guest-facing roles. Independent thinking and local authenticity often resonate more deeply than rigid standards.
  • Use technology as a tool, not a replacement for hospitality. Leverage data to identify patterns and improve operations while keeping the human element front and center.
  • Regularly reflect on your “why.” Align your work with your values, use life’s milestones as moments to reassess priorities, and lead with purpose.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple.  It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 31 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4184 On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit an insightful conversation on people-first leadership, authentic culture, and the true meaning of hospitality with Thomas Healy, President and COO of Rockbridge Hospitality Management. With more than 30 years in the industry, Tom shares lessons shaped by his upbringing in a family-run New Jersey supper club and a career spanning independent and branded hotels.

The conversation explores how leadership is rooted in empathy, inclusion, and service. Thomas explains why great leaders focus on making the most uncomfortable person in the room feel comfortable, and how diverse teams drive stronger culture, creativity, and trust. The episode also dives into the power of authenticity, particularly in independent hotels, where flexibility, storytelling, and local connection can create memorable guest experiences and outperform rigid brand standards.


Takeaways:

  • Prioritize human connection in everything you do. Simple gestures, eye contact, a smile, genuine attention, can have an outsized impact on guests and team members.
  • Lead by putting others first. Effective leadership is about service, empathy, and making people feel comfortable, valued, and included.
  • Build and champion diverse teams. Diversity strengthens culture, trust, and performance, and should be treated as a core leadership responsibility.
  • Foster a culture of authenticity and belonging. Create environments where people feel connected to something bigger than themselves.
  • Embrace flexibility and creativity, especially in guest-facing roles. Independent thinking and local authenticity often resonate more deeply than rigid standards.
  • Use technology as a tool, not a replacement for hospitality. Leverage data to identify patterns and improve operations while keeping the human element front and center.
  • Regularly reflect on your “why.” Align your work with your values, use life’s milestones as moments to reassess priorities, and lead with purpose.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple.  It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley - Four Seasons - Re-Air 231 231 Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley - Four Seasons - Re-Air full 31415fbd-9d21-4060-a35f-2d3633c3d84f https://share.transistor.fm/s/8096bab9 On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit a powerful conversation on people-centric leadership and the enduring value of culture with Marc Bromley, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Drawing from decades in luxury hospitality, and lessons passed down from his father, legendary hotelier Stan Bromley, Marc shares why exceptional guest experiences always start with taking exceptional care of employees.


The conversation explores the idea of a true “culture of care” and how it’s built, measured, and sustained. Marc explains how Four Seasons prioritizes employee well-being through clear values, rigorous feedback loops, and biannual employee opinion surveys that are treated as more important than financial or guest satisfaction metrics. The episode also dives into mentorship, hiring for attitude over skill, adapting leadership paths for new generations, and balancing uncompromising standards with empathy and wellness. 


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.


Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit a powerful conversation on people-centric leadership and the enduring value of culture with Marc Bromley, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Drawing from decades in luxury hospitality, and lessons passed down from his father, legendary hotelier Stan Bromley, Marc shares why exceptional guest experiences always start with taking exceptional care of employees.


The conversation explores the idea of a true “culture of care” and how it’s built, measured, and sustained. Marc explains how Four Seasons prioritizes employee well-being through clear values, rigorous feedback loops, and biannual employee opinion surveys that are treated as more important than financial or guest satisfaction metrics. The episode also dives into mentorship, hiring for attitude over skill, adapting leadership paths for new generations, and balancing uncompromising standards with empathy and wellness. 


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.


Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2698 On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit a powerful conversation on people-centric leadership and the enduring value of culture with Marc Bromley, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Drawing from decades in luxury hospitality, and lessons passed down from his father, legendary hotelier Stan Bromley, Marc shares why exceptional guest experiences always start with taking exceptional care of employees.


The conversation explores the idea of a true “culture of care” and how it’s built, measured, and sustained. Marc explains how Four Seasons prioritizes employee well-being through clear values, rigorous feedback loops, and biannual employee opinion surveys that are treated as more important than financial or guest satisfaction metrics. The episode also dives into mentorship, hiring for attitude over skill, adapting leadership paths for new generations, and balancing uncompromising standards with empathy and wellness. 


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.


Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Quality and Trust in Vacation Rentals - Ashley Ching - Inhaven - Episode # 230 230 230 Quality and Trust in Vacation Rentals - Ashley Ching - Inhaven - Episode # 230 full cd107a67-66c8-4713-9614-f0a288231a88 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7bbe5963 How do you scale hospitality without losing quality, trust, or operational control? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ching, Founder & CEO of Inhaven, for a deep dive into the hidden limits of scale in hospitality and vacation rentals. They explore why service-based businesses often face diseconomies of scale, what leaders can learn from the rapid rise and fall of business, and how complexity, not competition, is often the true threat to growth. Ashley also shares how Inhaven is redefining standardization, elevating local expertise, and rebuilding trust in vacation rentals through consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Know when scale becomes a liability. Not every business benefits from getting bigger, evaluate whether growth will increase cost and complexity instead of efficiency.
  • Reduce complexity early and often. Streamlined markets, clear standards, and simple operations make it easier to maintain quality and respond to change.
  • Invest in strong local operations. Empower teams with on-the-ground knowledge to solve problems quickly and uphold service standards.
  • Standardize what matters most. Consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences, or their equivalents in your industry, build trust and reduce operational waste.
  • Grow with discipline, not impulse. Resist “growth for growth’s sake” and prioritize sustainable expansion rooted in quality, clarity, and long-term value.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is really an expression of honor. It's how you honor yourself, your team, your guests, and your ancestors.” - Ashley Ching


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you scale hospitality without losing quality, trust, or operational control? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ching, Founder & CEO of Inhaven, for a deep dive into the hidden limits of scale in hospitality and vacation rentals. They explore why service-based businesses often face diseconomies of scale, what leaders can learn from the rapid rise and fall of business, and how complexity, not competition, is often the true threat to growth. Ashley also shares how Inhaven is redefining standardization, elevating local expertise, and rebuilding trust in vacation rentals through consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Know when scale becomes a liability. Not every business benefits from getting bigger, evaluate whether growth will increase cost and complexity instead of efficiency.
  • Reduce complexity early and often. Streamlined markets, clear standards, and simple operations make it easier to maintain quality and respond to change.
  • Invest in strong local operations. Empower teams with on-the-ground knowledge to solve problems quickly and uphold service standards.
  • Standardize what matters most. Consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences, or their equivalents in your industry, build trust and reduce operational waste.
  • Grow with discipline, not impulse. Resist “growth for growth’s sake” and prioritize sustainable expansion rooted in quality, clarity, and long-term value.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is really an expression of honor. It's how you honor yourself, your team, your guests, and your ancestors.” - Ashley Ching


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3416 How do you scale hospitality without losing quality, trust, or operational control? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ching, Founder & CEO of Inhaven, for a deep dive into the hidden limits of scale in hospitality and vacation rentals. They explore why service-based businesses often face diseconomies of scale, what leaders can learn from the rapid rise and fall of business, and how complexity, not competition, is often the true threat to growth. Ashley also shares how Inhaven is redefining standardization, elevating local expertise, and rebuilding trust in vacation rentals through consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences.


Takeaways:

  • Know when scale becomes a liability. Not every business benefits from getting bigger, evaluate whether growth will increase cost and complexity instead of efficiency.
  • Reduce complexity early and often. Streamlined markets, clear standards, and simple operations make it easier to maintain quality and respond to change.
  • Invest in strong local operations. Empower teams with on-the-ground knowledge to solve problems quickly and uphold service standards.
  • Standardize what matters most. Consistent bed, bath, and kitchen experiences, or their equivalents in your industry, build trust and reduce operational waste.
  • Grow with discipline, not impulse. Resist “growth for growth’s sake” and prioritize sustainable expansion rooted in quality, clarity, and long-term value.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is really an expression of honor. It's how you honor yourself, your team, your guests, and your ancestors.” - Ashley Ching


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Building Teams Rooted in Values and Vision - Anna Peretz - Sonesta - Episode # 229 229 229 Building Teams Rooted in Values and Vision - Anna Peretz - Sonesta - Episode # 229 full 6bdd0851-02ff-4234-822f-39469d4f0f13 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c609bb42 How do you build hospitality experiences, and lead teams, in a way that’s rooted in authenticity, multicultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Anna Peretz, Director of Architecture, Design, and Construction at Sonesta International Hotels, to explore her journey from the USSR to Israel to the U.S., and how resilience, cultural diversity, and a passion for people shaped her approach to hospitality. Together, they unpack the balance between design and business realities, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the importance of mentoring future talent while maintaining personal well-being.


Takeaways:

  • Lead with authenticity. Genuine care builds trust and creates memorable experiences for guests, teams, and partners.
  • Be stubborn about the vision, flexible about the path. Hold your purpose firmly but stay adaptable in how you achieve it.
  • Hire and mentor for values. Prioritize authenticity, curiosity, and passion, not just technical skill, when building and developing teams.
  • Integrate creative and financial thinking. Understanding business fundamentals helps ensure projects deliver real value and avoid costly misalignment.
  • Protect your well-being and relationships. Sustainable leadership requires rest, boundaries, and intentional time for family and personal growth.


Quote of the Show:

“I am going to be stubborn about my vision, but I'm going to be flexible about the way I'm going to get to it.” - Anna Peretz 


Connect with Anna:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you build hospitality experiences, and lead teams, in a way that’s rooted in authenticity, multicultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Anna Peretz, Director of Architecture, Design, and Construction at Sonesta International Hotels, to explore her journey from the USSR to Israel to the U.S., and how resilience, cultural diversity, and a passion for people shaped her approach to hospitality. Together, they unpack the balance between design and business realities, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the importance of mentoring future talent while maintaining personal well-being.


Takeaways:

  • Lead with authenticity. Genuine care builds trust and creates memorable experiences for guests, teams, and partners.
  • Be stubborn about the vision, flexible about the path. Hold your purpose firmly but stay adaptable in how you achieve it.
  • Hire and mentor for values. Prioritize authenticity, curiosity, and passion, not just technical skill, when building and developing teams.
  • Integrate creative and financial thinking. Understanding business fundamentals helps ensure projects deliver real value and avoid costly misalignment.
  • Protect your well-being and relationships. Sustainable leadership requires rest, boundaries, and intentional time for family and personal growth.


Quote of the Show:

“I am going to be stubborn about my vision, but I'm going to be flexible about the way I'm going to get to it.” - Anna Peretz 


Connect with Anna:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3938 How do you build hospitality experiences, and lead teams, in a way that’s rooted in authenticity, multicultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Anna Peretz, Director of Architecture, Design, and Construction at Sonesta International Hotels, to explore her journey from the USSR to Israel to the U.S., and how resilience, cultural diversity, and a passion for people shaped her approach to hospitality. Together, they unpack the balance between design and business realities, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the importance of mentoring future talent while maintaining personal well-being.


Takeaways:

  • Lead with authenticity. Genuine care builds trust and creates memorable experiences for guests, teams, and partners.
  • Be stubborn about the vision, flexible about the path. Hold your purpose firmly but stay adaptable in how you achieve it.
  • Hire and mentor for values. Prioritize authenticity, curiosity, and passion, not just technical skill, when building and developing teams.
  • Integrate creative and financial thinking. Understanding business fundamentals helps ensure projects deliver real value and avoid costly misalignment.
  • Protect your well-being and relationships. Sustainable leadership requires rest, boundaries, and intentional time for family and personal growth.


Quote of the Show:

“I am going to be stubborn about my vision, but I'm going to be flexible about the way I'm going to get to it.” - Anna Peretz 


Connect with Anna:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Value Driven Growth in New Markets - Paul Sacco - PM Hotel Group - Episode # 228 228 228 Value Driven Growth in New Markets - Paul Sacco - PM Hotel Group - Episode # 228 full 60aa9145-8757-45a0-af66-888ff510d32e https://share.transistor.fm/s/b94eadb4 How do you decide where, and whether, to grow in a way that’s strategic, sustainable, and aligned with your organization’s values?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Paul Sacco, Chief Growth and Development Officer at PM Hotel Group, to unpack the real thought process behind geographic expansion, from evaluating new markets to choosing the right partners. Paul reveals why his team rejects “growth for growth’s sake” and instead relies on a collaborative, intentional model that brings every voice to the table.


He breaks down how they assess operational readiness, including whether nearby assets and staff can support a new deal, and why the quality of the asset, and their ability to truly add value, must pass a high bar. Dan and Paul also explore the importance of long-term owner satisfaction and why alignment in mindset and values is essential before entering any new relationship. This is a grounded look at strategic expansion, operational discipline, leadership, and building partnerships that last.


Takeaways:

  • Growth must be intentional. Expansion only works when it aligns with long-term vision, not just short-term metrics.
  • Collaboration strengthens decisions. Involving diverse internal stakeholders leads to more thoughtful, well-rounded evaluations.
  • Operational readiness is non-negotiable. Entering a market requires existing coverage or the ability to provide hands-on, high-quality oversight.
  • Pick opportunities where you can add real value. Focus on assets where your operational expertise creates meaningful impact for owners.
  • Choose aligned partners. Working with owners who share your mindset and values builds trust, longevity, and mutually beneficial growth.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality isn’t just something we do. Ultimately, it’s who we are. I think it rewards empathy, resilience, and creativity." - Paul Sacco


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you decide where, and whether, to grow in a way that’s strategic, sustainable, and aligned with your organization’s values?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Paul Sacco, Chief Growth and Development Officer at PM Hotel Group, to unpack the real thought process behind geographic expansion, from evaluating new markets to choosing the right partners. Paul reveals why his team rejects “growth for growth’s sake” and instead relies on a collaborative, intentional model that brings every voice to the table.


He breaks down how they assess operational readiness, including whether nearby assets and staff can support a new deal, and why the quality of the asset, and their ability to truly add value, must pass a high bar. Dan and Paul also explore the importance of long-term owner satisfaction and why alignment in mindset and values is essential before entering any new relationship. This is a grounded look at strategic expansion, operational discipline, leadership, and building partnerships that last.


Takeaways:

  • Growth must be intentional. Expansion only works when it aligns with long-term vision, not just short-term metrics.
  • Collaboration strengthens decisions. Involving diverse internal stakeholders leads to more thoughtful, well-rounded evaluations.
  • Operational readiness is non-negotiable. Entering a market requires existing coverage or the ability to provide hands-on, high-quality oversight.
  • Pick opportunities where you can add real value. Focus on assets where your operational expertise creates meaningful impact for owners.
  • Choose aligned partners. Working with owners who share your mindset and values builds trust, longevity, and mutually beneficial growth.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality isn’t just something we do. Ultimately, it’s who we are. I think it rewards empathy, resilience, and creativity." - Paul Sacco


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2954 How do you decide where, and whether, to grow in a way that’s strategic, sustainable, and aligned with your organization’s values?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Paul Sacco, Chief Growth and Development Officer at PM Hotel Group, to unpack the real thought process behind geographic expansion, from evaluating new markets to choosing the right partners. Paul reveals why his team rejects “growth for growth’s sake” and instead relies on a collaborative, intentional model that brings every voice to the table.


He breaks down how they assess operational readiness, including whether nearby assets and staff can support a new deal, and why the quality of the asset, and their ability to truly add value, must pass a high bar. Dan and Paul also explore the importance of long-term owner satisfaction and why alignment in mindset and values is essential before entering any new relationship. This is a grounded look at strategic expansion, operational discipline, leadership, and building partnerships that last.


Takeaways:

  • Growth must be intentional. Expansion only works when it aligns with long-term vision, not just short-term metrics.
  • Collaboration strengthens decisions. Involving diverse internal stakeholders leads to more thoughtful, well-rounded evaluations.
  • Operational readiness is non-negotiable. Entering a market requires existing coverage or the ability to provide hands-on, high-quality oversight.
  • Pick opportunities where you can add real value. Focus on assets where your operational expertise creates meaningful impact for owners.
  • Choose aligned partners. Working with owners who share your mindset and values builds trust, longevity, and mutually beneficial growth.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality isn’t just something we do. Ultimately, it’s who we are. I think it rewards empathy, resilience, and creativity." - Paul Sacco


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi The Future of Airport Design and Leadership - John Anthal - Mancini Duffy - Episode # 227 227 227 The Future of Airport Design and Leadership - John Anthal - Mancini Duffy - Episode # 227 full 136ca4fb-d79a-462b-a3ad-11476d7844ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/f2b9371e How do architects create airports that feel human, intuitive, and welcoming while juggling regulations, budgets, and countless stakeholders? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Anthal, Principal and Aviation Sector Leader at Mancini Duffy, to unpack the hidden complexity of airport design, the evolving meaning of hospitality in aviation, and how leadership, technology, and culture shape the future of large-scale infrastructure.


John pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design terminals for millions of travelers, from Lufthansa’s JFK lounge to major Port Authority projects, while keeping the end user at the center. They explore human-scale design in massive public spaces, the tension between grand architecture and comfort, how AI and new tools are transforming the studio, and why empowering young designers leads to the most innovative ideas. This is a deep dive into architecture, hospitality, leadership, and the future of air travel, grounded in real-world lessons from one of the industry’s most experienced aviation designers.


Takeaways:

  • Airport projects are full of regulations, politics, and competing priorities but success hinges on never losing sight of the end user. Human-scale touches and thoughtful amenities transform overwhelming spaces into welcoming ones.
  • Creating comfort in aviation means understanding diverse travelers and reinforcing brand through design. Small cultural cues, like Lufthansa’s pickle bar, build familiarity and ease.
  • U.S. airports often struggle with outdated systems and tight sites. Long project timelines require forward-thinking, adaptable planning that anticipates future technologies and growth.
  • Entrepreneurial thinking drives new opportunities. Employees are encouraged to pitch new business ideas and build new verticals, creating a culture where initiative is celebrated.
  • Technology is an enabler, not a replacement. AI tools and modern platforms like Revit enhance creativity and efficiency, helping teams visualize ideas faster and communicate them more powerfully.


Quote of the Show:

“Learning more from other clients helps us solve problems for our existing clients in ways we hadn’t thought about before. It’s about a diversity of knowledge in a niche market.” - John Anthal

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do architects create airports that feel human, intuitive, and welcoming while juggling regulations, budgets, and countless stakeholders? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Anthal, Principal and Aviation Sector Leader at Mancini Duffy, to unpack the hidden complexity of airport design, the evolving meaning of hospitality in aviation, and how leadership, technology, and culture shape the future of large-scale infrastructure.


John pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design terminals for millions of travelers, from Lufthansa’s JFK lounge to major Port Authority projects, while keeping the end user at the center. They explore human-scale design in massive public spaces, the tension between grand architecture and comfort, how AI and new tools are transforming the studio, and why empowering young designers leads to the most innovative ideas. This is a deep dive into architecture, hospitality, leadership, and the future of air travel, grounded in real-world lessons from one of the industry’s most experienced aviation designers.


Takeaways:

  • Airport projects are full of regulations, politics, and competing priorities but success hinges on never losing sight of the end user. Human-scale touches and thoughtful amenities transform overwhelming spaces into welcoming ones.
  • Creating comfort in aviation means understanding diverse travelers and reinforcing brand through design. Small cultural cues, like Lufthansa’s pickle bar, build familiarity and ease.
  • U.S. airports often struggle with outdated systems and tight sites. Long project timelines require forward-thinking, adaptable planning that anticipates future technologies and growth.
  • Entrepreneurial thinking drives new opportunities. Employees are encouraged to pitch new business ideas and build new verticals, creating a culture where initiative is celebrated.
  • Technology is an enabler, not a replacement. AI tools and modern platforms like Revit enhance creativity and efficiency, helping teams visualize ideas faster and communicate them more powerfully.


Quote of the Show:

“Learning more from other clients helps us solve problems for our existing clients in ways we hadn’t thought about before. It’s about a diversity of knowledge in a niche market.” - John Anthal

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3473 How do architects create airports that feel human, intuitive, and welcoming while juggling regulations, budgets, and countless stakeholders? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Anthal, Principal and Aviation Sector Leader at Mancini Duffy, to unpack the hidden complexity of airport design, the evolving meaning of hospitality in aviation, and how leadership, technology, and culture shape the future of large-scale infrastructure.


John pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design terminals for millions of travelers, from Lufthansa’s JFK lounge to major Port Authority projects, while keeping the end user at the center. They explore human-scale design in massive public spaces, the tension between grand architecture and comfort, how AI and new tools are transforming the studio, and why empowering young designers leads to the most innovative ideas. This is a deep dive into architecture, hospitality, leadership, and the future of air travel, grounded in real-world lessons from one of the industry’s most experienced aviation designers.


Takeaways:

  • Airport projects are full of regulations, politics, and competing priorities but success hinges on never losing sight of the end user. Human-scale touches and thoughtful amenities transform overwhelming spaces into welcoming ones.
  • Creating comfort in aviation means understanding diverse travelers and reinforcing brand through design. Small cultural cues, like Lufthansa’s pickle bar, build familiarity and ease.
  • U.S. airports often struggle with outdated systems and tight sites. Long project timelines require forward-thinking, adaptable planning that anticipates future technologies and growth.
  • Entrepreneurial thinking drives new opportunities. Employees are encouraged to pitch new business ideas and build new verticals, creating a culture where initiative is celebrated.
  • Technology is an enabler, not a replacement. AI tools and modern platforms like Revit enhance creativity and efficiency, helping teams visualize ideas faster and communicate them more powerfully.


Quote of the Show:

“Learning more from other clients helps us solve problems for our existing clients in ways we hadn’t thought about before. It’s about a diversity of knowledge in a niche market.” - John Anthal

Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Creating Connection Through Cuisine - Emmie Nostitz & Zach Knight - Tivity - Episode # 226 226 226 Creating Connection Through Cuisine - Emmie Nostitz & Zach Knight - Tivity - Episode # 226 full 51b3965e-3d81-4dc7-b30d-f008893cbfca https://share.transistor.fm/s/70ee1c64 What happens when hospitality shifts from serving to empowering, when chefs become creators, not just cooks?

In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Emmie Nostitz and Zach Knight, co-founders of Tivity, a platform redefining private dining by connecting clients with talented chefs for personalized in-home and venue experiences. Together, they explore how Tivity empowers chefs to run their own businesses, foster creativity, and bring hospitality back to its human roots.

Emmie and Zach share how Tivity began as a passion project and evolved into a chef-centered movement operating across the U.S. and abroad. They discuss their philosophy of quality over quantity, the delicate balance between technology and personal connection, and why thoughtful growth matters more than rapid expansion. From intimate dinners to large-scale events, they reveal how every experience becomes a creative collaboration, crafted with care, trust, and authenticity.


You’ll hear insights on what it means to empower creators, how to manage expectations gracefully, and why true hospitality begins with empathy and human connection. Tivity’s story offers a blueprint for sustainable growth, purpose-driven leadership, and a reimagined future for dining.


Takeaways:

  • By centering chefs and giving them creative control, Tivity transforms both the chef and guest experience. When people feel trusted and supported, creativity and quality naturally flourish.
  • Managing expectations, listening deeply, and fostering genuine connection are at the heart of every memorable event. True care and empathy turn a simple dinner into an unforgettable experience.
  • Sustainable success comes from prioritizing trust, quality, and cultural integrity over rapid scaling. Tivity’s slow, deliberate growth proves that meaningful relationships outlast quick wins.
  • Smart systems streamline operations, but they can’t replace the power of personal touch. Tivity uses technology to enhance connection—not to automate it away.
  • The founders envision a world where booking a private chef is as easy as ordering takeout. By making chef-led experiences accessible and personal, they’re reshaping how we think about dining and hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“There’s nothing more intimate and human than someone coming into your home, creating a meal, and then sharing that meal.” - Emmie Nostitz

“If the chef has the tools they need to execute a meal, which is their passion or their pursuit, then they’re going to crush it.” - Zach Knight


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What happens when hospitality shifts from serving to empowering, when chefs become creators, not just cooks?

In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Emmie Nostitz and Zach Knight, co-founders of Tivity, a platform redefining private dining by connecting clients with talented chefs for personalized in-home and venue experiences. Together, they explore how Tivity empowers chefs to run their own businesses, foster creativity, and bring hospitality back to its human roots.

Emmie and Zach share how Tivity began as a passion project and evolved into a chef-centered movement operating across the U.S. and abroad. They discuss their philosophy of quality over quantity, the delicate balance between technology and personal connection, and why thoughtful growth matters more than rapid expansion. From intimate dinners to large-scale events, they reveal how every experience becomes a creative collaboration, crafted with care, trust, and authenticity.


You’ll hear insights on what it means to empower creators, how to manage expectations gracefully, and why true hospitality begins with empathy and human connection. Tivity’s story offers a blueprint for sustainable growth, purpose-driven leadership, and a reimagined future for dining.


Takeaways:

  • By centering chefs and giving them creative control, Tivity transforms both the chef and guest experience. When people feel trusted and supported, creativity and quality naturally flourish.
  • Managing expectations, listening deeply, and fostering genuine connection are at the heart of every memorable event. True care and empathy turn a simple dinner into an unforgettable experience.
  • Sustainable success comes from prioritizing trust, quality, and cultural integrity over rapid scaling. Tivity’s slow, deliberate growth proves that meaningful relationships outlast quick wins.
  • Smart systems streamline operations, but they can’t replace the power of personal touch. Tivity uses technology to enhance connection—not to automate it away.
  • The founders envision a world where booking a private chef is as easy as ordering takeout. By making chef-led experiences accessible and personal, they’re reshaping how we think about dining and hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“There’s nothing more intimate and human than someone coming into your home, creating a meal, and then sharing that meal.” - Emmie Nostitz

“If the chef has the tools they need to execute a meal, which is their passion or their pursuit, then they’re going to crush it.” - Zach Knight


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4205 What happens when hospitality shifts from serving to empowering, when chefs become creators, not just cooks?

In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Emmie Nostitz and Zach Knight, co-founders of Tivity, a platform redefining private dining by connecting clients with talented chefs for personalized in-home and venue experiences. Together, they explore how Tivity empowers chefs to run their own businesses, foster creativity, and bring hospitality back to its human roots.

Emmie and Zach share how Tivity began as a passion project and evolved into a chef-centered movement operating across the U.S. and abroad. They discuss their philosophy of quality over quantity, the delicate balance between technology and personal connection, and why thoughtful growth matters more than rapid expansion. From intimate dinners to large-scale events, they reveal how every experience becomes a creative collaboration, crafted with care, trust, and authenticity.


You’ll hear insights on what it means to empower creators, how to manage expectations gracefully, and why true hospitality begins with empathy and human connection. Tivity’s story offers a blueprint for sustainable growth, purpose-driven leadership, and a reimagined future for dining.


Takeaways:

  • By centering chefs and giving them creative control, Tivity transforms both the chef and guest experience. When people feel trusted and supported, creativity and quality naturally flourish.
  • Managing expectations, listening deeply, and fostering genuine connection are at the heart of every memorable event. True care and empathy turn a simple dinner into an unforgettable experience.
  • Sustainable success comes from prioritizing trust, quality, and cultural integrity over rapid scaling. Tivity’s slow, deliberate growth proves that meaningful relationships outlast quick wins.
  • Smart systems streamline operations, but they can’t replace the power of personal touch. Tivity uses technology to enhance connection—not to automate it away.
  • The founders envision a world where booking a private chef is as easy as ordering takeout. By making chef-led experiences accessible and personal, they’re reshaping how we think about dining and hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“There’s nothing more intimate and human than someone coming into your home, creating a meal, and then sharing that meal.” - Emmie Nostitz

“If the chef has the tools they need to execute a meal, which is their passion or their pursuit, then they’re going to crush it.” - Zach Knight


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Branding the Human Experience - Matt Ferebee - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 225 225 225 Branding the Human Experience - Matt Ferebee - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 225 full 79d772fb-82bd-4380-8cae-012cd96516f2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f58401e5 What happens when brand becomes more than a logo and turns into a decision-making framework for every part of hospitality?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Matt Ferebee, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of FerebeeLane, to explore how powerful brand strategy shapes luxury hospitality experiences from the inside out. Drawing on his work with properties like Blackberry Farm and global brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Matt shares how authentic care, storytelling, and culture-building drive excellence across teams and guest touchpoints.


They unpack what it means to truly live your story, how to operationalize brand values so they guide every decision, and why human connection remains irreplaceable in a tech-driven world. From empowering staff to embody a brand’s “North Star” to handling mistakes with grace, this conversation reveals how thoughtful branding becomes the heartbeat of extraordinary hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Branding becomes most powerful when it’s used as a framework for decision-making, not just a visual identity. When a brand’s purpose and values are clear, they guide everyone toward a unified guest experience.
  • True hospitality is about genuine care and attention to others, not just providing services. The best experiences are built on human warmth, empathy, and small, thoughtful gestures that make guests feel truly welcomed.
  • A lasting culture of excellence depends on communication, empowerment, and a shared commitment to improvement. 
  • The strongest brands don’t simply tell stories, they live them. Every design choice, service moment, and guest interaction becomes an opportunity to bring the brand’s story to life in an authentic way.
  • Technology can enhance efficiency, but it should never replace the human touch that defines true hospitality. Balancing innovation with the timeless power of real human connection is the future.


Quote of the Show: 

“Genuine hospitality is the saving grace in the midst of things going wrong.” - Matt Ferebee


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What happens when brand becomes more than a logo and turns into a decision-making framework for every part of hospitality?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Matt Ferebee, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of FerebeeLane, to explore how powerful brand strategy shapes luxury hospitality experiences from the inside out. Drawing on his work with properties like Blackberry Farm and global brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Matt shares how authentic care, storytelling, and culture-building drive excellence across teams and guest touchpoints.


They unpack what it means to truly live your story, how to operationalize brand values so they guide every decision, and why human connection remains irreplaceable in a tech-driven world. From empowering staff to embody a brand’s “North Star” to handling mistakes with grace, this conversation reveals how thoughtful branding becomes the heartbeat of extraordinary hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Branding becomes most powerful when it’s used as a framework for decision-making, not just a visual identity. When a brand’s purpose and values are clear, they guide everyone toward a unified guest experience.
  • True hospitality is about genuine care and attention to others, not just providing services. The best experiences are built on human warmth, empathy, and small, thoughtful gestures that make guests feel truly welcomed.
  • A lasting culture of excellence depends on communication, empowerment, and a shared commitment to improvement. 
  • The strongest brands don’t simply tell stories, they live them. Every design choice, service moment, and guest interaction becomes an opportunity to bring the brand’s story to life in an authentic way.
  • Technology can enhance efficiency, but it should never replace the human touch that defines true hospitality. Balancing innovation with the timeless power of real human connection is the future.


Quote of the Show: 

“Genuine hospitality is the saving grace in the midst of things going wrong.” - Matt Ferebee


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4361 What happens when brand becomes more than a logo and turns into a decision-making framework for every part of hospitality?


In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Matt Ferebee, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of FerebeeLane, to explore how powerful brand strategy shapes luxury hospitality experiences from the inside out. Drawing on his work with properties like Blackberry Farm and global brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Matt shares how authentic care, storytelling, and culture-building drive excellence across teams and guest touchpoints.


They unpack what it means to truly live your story, how to operationalize brand values so they guide every decision, and why human connection remains irreplaceable in a tech-driven world. From empowering staff to embody a brand’s “North Star” to handling mistakes with grace, this conversation reveals how thoughtful branding becomes the heartbeat of extraordinary hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Branding becomes most powerful when it’s used as a framework for decision-making, not just a visual identity. When a brand’s purpose and values are clear, they guide everyone toward a unified guest experience.
  • True hospitality is about genuine care and attention to others, not just providing services. The best experiences are built on human warmth, empathy, and small, thoughtful gestures that make guests feel truly welcomed.
  • A lasting culture of excellence depends on communication, empowerment, and a shared commitment to improvement. 
  • The strongest brands don’t simply tell stories, they live them. Every design choice, service moment, and guest interaction becomes an opportunity to bring the brand’s story to life in an authentic way.
  • Technology can enhance efficiency, but it should never replace the human touch that defines true hospitality. Balancing innovation with the timeless power of real human connection is the future.


Quote of the Show: 

“Genuine hospitality is the saving grace in the midst of things going wrong.” - Matt Ferebee


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi The Power of Community in Hospitality - Margot Stern - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 224 224 224 The Power of Community in Hospitality - Margot Stern - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 224 full 86ffff0e-22da-47a0-9f36-290a14f04eb6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a6638717 What does authentic, people-centered hospitality look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Margot Stern, hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Avenida Baja and The Hopewell, about her journey from global marketing at Mattel to building boutique hotels rooted in community and belonging. They explore how authenticity, storytelling, and resilience shape successful hospitality ventures and what it takes to raise capital, navigate local politics, and lead with empathy in a traditionally male-dominated industry.


Margot defines hospitality as creating a true sense of welcome, shares candid insights from her path as a female founder, and reveals how transparency, vision, and community engagement can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.


Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality starts with creating a genuine sense of belonging, when people feel truly seen and valued, everything else follows.
  • Embrace career pivots and unexpected opportunities as pathways to growth; every experience can build skills that serve future ventures.
  • Use storytelling and clear visuals to communicate your vision; numbers matter, but emotional connection inspires belief and investment.
  • Engage openly with communities and stakeholders early in any project; transparency builds trust and helps turn resistance into collaboration.
  • Choose investors, partners, and mentors who align with your values and vision, mutual respect is the foundation of sustainable success.
  • Innovate in how you raise funds and share your story; modern tools like crowdfunding and digital platforms can help you reach new, supportive audiences.


Quote of the Show:

“Sometimes things don't work out exactly the way you want and it can turn into something beautiful" - Margot Stern


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does authentic, people-centered hospitality look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Margot Stern, hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Avenida Baja and The Hopewell, about her journey from global marketing at Mattel to building boutique hotels rooted in community and belonging. They explore how authenticity, storytelling, and resilience shape successful hospitality ventures and what it takes to raise capital, navigate local politics, and lead with empathy in a traditionally male-dominated industry.


Margot defines hospitality as creating a true sense of welcome, shares candid insights from her path as a female founder, and reveals how transparency, vision, and community engagement can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.


Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality starts with creating a genuine sense of belonging, when people feel truly seen and valued, everything else follows.
  • Embrace career pivots and unexpected opportunities as pathways to growth; every experience can build skills that serve future ventures.
  • Use storytelling and clear visuals to communicate your vision; numbers matter, but emotional connection inspires belief and investment.
  • Engage openly with communities and stakeholders early in any project; transparency builds trust and helps turn resistance into collaboration.
  • Choose investors, partners, and mentors who align with your values and vision, mutual respect is the foundation of sustainable success.
  • Innovate in how you raise funds and share your story; modern tools like crowdfunding and digital platforms can help you reach new, supportive audiences.


Quote of the Show:

“Sometimes things don't work out exactly the way you want and it can turn into something beautiful" - Margot Stern


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4194 What does authentic, people-centered hospitality look like?


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Margot Stern, hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Avenida Baja and The Hopewell, about her journey from global marketing at Mattel to building boutique hotels rooted in community and belonging. They explore how authenticity, storytelling, and resilience shape successful hospitality ventures and what it takes to raise capital, navigate local politics, and lead with empathy in a traditionally male-dominated industry.


Margot defines hospitality as creating a true sense of welcome, shares candid insights from her path as a female founder, and reveals how transparency, vision, and community engagement can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.


Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality starts with creating a genuine sense of belonging, when people feel truly seen and valued, everything else follows.
  • Embrace career pivots and unexpected opportunities as pathways to growth; every experience can build skills that serve future ventures.
  • Use storytelling and clear visuals to communicate your vision; numbers matter, but emotional connection inspires belief and investment.
  • Engage openly with communities and stakeholders early in any project; transparency builds trust and helps turn resistance into collaboration.
  • Choose investors, partners, and mentors who align with your values and vision, mutual respect is the foundation of sustainable success.
  • Innovate in how you raise funds and share your story; modern tools like crowdfunding and digital platforms can help you reach new, supportive audiences.


Quote of the Show:

“Sometimes things don't work out exactly the way you want and it can turn into something beautiful" - Margot Stern


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon Buerge - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 223 223 223 Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon Buerge - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 223 full c9e4a86f-f207-4a8a-a7e5-4b88b6fdafb6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/675c458b What does carbon-positive hospitality look like? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.


Jon shares the story behind Populus and the vision driving Urban Villages’ sustainable developments. He defines hospitality as a selfless pursuit of extraordinary experiences and explains why true hospitality must include care for the planet. From innovative building materials like fly ash concrete to transparent, guest-facing sustainability efforts, Jon and Dan discuss how Populus is redefining what it means to host with purpose.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is rooted in empathy and selfless guest care, with sustainability at its core.
  • Populus Hotel was designed to leave the planet better than it was found through carbon-positive innovation.
  • Sustainability enhances business performance by lowering costs and increasing guest loyalty.
  • The hospitality industry must evolve beyond rigid policies to embrace flexible, holistic sustainability solutions.
  • Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainable projects that align with long-term environmental goals.
  • Consumer demand, especially among younger generations, is driving the industry toward greener practices.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is the kind of unwavering and selfless pursuit of an extraordinary experience for a guest” - Jon Buerge


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does carbon-positive hospitality look like? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.


Jon shares the story behind Populus and the vision driving Urban Villages’ sustainable developments. He defines hospitality as a selfless pursuit of extraordinary experiences and explains why true hospitality must include care for the planet. From innovative building materials like fly ash concrete to transparent, guest-facing sustainability efforts, Jon and Dan discuss how Populus is redefining what it means to host with purpose.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is rooted in empathy and selfless guest care, with sustainability at its core.
  • Populus Hotel was designed to leave the planet better than it was found through carbon-positive innovation.
  • Sustainability enhances business performance by lowering costs and increasing guest loyalty.
  • The hospitality industry must evolve beyond rigid policies to embrace flexible, holistic sustainability solutions.
  • Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainable projects that align with long-term environmental goals.
  • Consumer demand, especially among younger generations, is driving the industry toward greener practices.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is the kind of unwavering and selfless pursuit of an extraordinary experience for a guest” - Jon Buerge


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2634 What does carbon-positive hospitality look like? 


In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.


Jon shares the story behind Populus and the vision driving Urban Villages’ sustainable developments. He defines hospitality as a selfless pursuit of extraordinary experiences and explains why true hospitality must include care for the planet. From innovative building materials like fly ash concrete to transparent, guest-facing sustainability efforts, Jon and Dan discuss how Populus is redefining what it means to host with purpose.


Takeaways:

  • True hospitality is rooted in empathy and selfless guest care, with sustainability at its core.
  • Populus Hotel was designed to leave the planet better than it was found through carbon-positive innovation.
  • Sustainability enhances business performance by lowering costs and increasing guest loyalty.
  • The hospitality industry must evolve beyond rigid policies to embrace flexible, holistic sustainability solutions.
  • Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainable projects that align with long-term environmental goals.
  • Consumer demand, especially among younger generations, is driving the industry toward greener practices.


Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is the kind of unwavering and selfless pursuit of an extraordinary experience for a guest” - Jon Buerge


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Gabby Aloisi Building Restaurants That Feel Like Home - Yann de Rochefort - Defining Hospitality - Ep #222 222 222 Building Restaurants That Feel Like Home - Yann de Rochefort - Defining Hospitality - Ep #222 full 55afc060-d890-4f92-a09c-a7662b2f0d10 https://share.transistor.fm/s/089c2cc2 Can structure and systems actually make hospitality feel more human?

Yann de Rochefort, founder of Boqueria Restaurants, has spent the last 20 years redefining what modern hospitality feels like. From a single tapas bar in Manhattan to beloved locations across the U.S., Yann has built a restaurant brand rooted in warmth, culture, and design, all while keeping the experience consistent and deeply human. Yann shares how structure creates freedom, why culture matters more than any single person, and how intentional design can make every guest feel at home the moment they walk in. He also opens up about scaling Boqueria through stormy seas, building resilient teams, and leading with purpose in one of the toughest industries around.


Takeaways: 

  • Build strong habits and systems in your work or business. This structure provides the freedom to improvise and be creative when needed.
  • Prioritize genuine human connection over transactional interactions. Listen, observe, and tailor your approach to each individual’s needs.
  • People may come and go, but a strong, clearly defined culture anchored in real values, beliefs, and rituals will sustain and grow your organization.
  • Don’t just put values on a wall. Integrate them into daily language, feedback, and rituals so they become part of your team’s identity and decision-making.
  • When expanding or collaborating, ensure alignment in values, energy, and target audience. Don’t compromise on what makes your brand unique.
  • The hospitality industry offers steep career paths for those willing to learn and work hard. Invest in training and provide opportunities for advancement.
  • Sometimes the simplest products (like dates wrapped in bacon) become customer favorites. Don’t overlook the power of doing simple things exceptionally well.

Quote of the Show:

“What distinguishes hospitality from a transaction is the human connection.” - Yann de Rochefort


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Can structure and systems actually make hospitality feel more human?

Yann de Rochefort, founder of Boqueria Restaurants, has spent the last 20 years redefining what modern hospitality feels like. From a single tapas bar in Manhattan to beloved locations across the U.S., Yann has built a restaurant brand rooted in warmth, culture, and design, all while keeping the experience consistent and deeply human. Yann shares how structure creates freedom, why culture matters more than any single person, and how intentional design can make every guest feel at home the moment they walk in. He also opens up about scaling Boqueria through stormy seas, building resilient teams, and leading with purpose in one of the toughest industries around.


Takeaways: 

  • Build strong habits and systems in your work or business. This structure provides the freedom to improvise and be creative when needed.
  • Prioritize genuine human connection over transactional interactions. Listen, observe, and tailor your approach to each individual’s needs.
  • People may come and go, but a strong, clearly defined culture anchored in real values, beliefs, and rituals will sustain and grow your organization.
  • Don’t just put values on a wall. Integrate them into daily language, feedback, and rituals so they become part of your team’s identity and decision-making.
  • When expanding or collaborating, ensure alignment in values, energy, and target audience. Don’t compromise on what makes your brand unique.
  • The hospitality industry offers steep career paths for those willing to learn and work hard. Invest in training and provide opportunities for advancement.
  • Sometimes the simplest products (like dates wrapped in bacon) become customer favorites. Don’t overlook the power of doing simple things exceptionally well.

Quote of the Show:

“What distinguishes hospitality from a transaction is the human connection.” - Yann de Rochefort


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3708 Can structure and systems actually make hospitality feel more human?

Yann de Rochefort, founder of Boqueria Restaurants, has spent the last 20 years redefining what modern hospitality feels like. From a single tapas bar in Manhattan to beloved locations across the U.S., Yann has built a restaurant brand rooted in warmth, culture, and design, all while keeping the experience consistent and deeply human. Yann shares how structure creates freedom, why culture matters more than any single person, and how intentional design can make every guest feel at home the moment they walk in. He also opens up about scaling Boqueria through stormy seas, building resilient teams, and leading with purpose in one of the toughest industries around.


Takeaways: 

  • Build strong habits and systems in your work or business. This structure provides the freedom to improvise and be creative when needed.
  • Prioritize genuine human connection over transactional interactions. Listen, observe, and tailor your approach to each individual’s needs.
  • People may come and go, but a strong, clearly defined culture anchored in real values, beliefs, and rituals will sustain and grow your organization.
  • Don’t just put values on a wall. Integrate them into daily language, feedback, and rituals so they become part of your team’s identity and decision-making.
  • When expanding or collaborating, ensure alignment in values, energy, and target audience. Don’t compromise on what makes your brand unique.
  • The hospitality industry offers steep career paths for those willing to learn and work hard. Invest in training and provide opportunities for advancement.
  • Sometimes the simplest products (like dates wrapped in bacon) become customer favorites. Don’t overlook the power of doing simple things exceptionally well.

Quote of the Show:

“What distinguishes hospitality from a transaction is the human connection.” - Yann de Rochefort


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Designing for Memory: Storytelling in Interiors - James Lee - Defining Hospitality - Episode #221 221 221 Designing for Memory: Storytelling in Interiors - James Lee - Defining Hospitality - Episode #221 full 9302cfdc-43ed-4863-97eb-01ff1d38b3ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/d4ccd0f6 What makes hospitality design truly memorable?

Today, Dan is joined by James Lee, Hospitality Managing Director and Design Principal at IA Interior Architects. James discusses the blurring lines between architecture and interior design in the context of hospitality, emphasizing the emotional impact of interior spaces. They explore the unique focus of IA on creating immersive and memorable experiences through design. James shares insights on the importance of understanding local culture for international projects, the role of social media in contemporary design research, and the significance of budget considerations in executing successful hospitality projects. Additionally, the conversation highlights the team's innovative approach, exemplified by their radical innovation project, 'The Passage,' aimed at repurposing abandoned railway lines into sustainable hotel destinations. James discusses the collaborative efforts within IA and emphasizes nurturing young talent to drive creative and impactful design solutions.


Takeaways: 

  • Blur the lines between architecture and interiors to create seamless, holistic hospitality experiences that connect with both the mind and the heart.
  • Lead with storytelling in your design process. A powerful narrative makes spaces resonate emotionally and ensures people remember the moments they experience there.
  • Involve local culture and community in your projects by researching social media, visiting neighborhoods, and identifying authentic “sense of place” elements to celebrate.
  • Engage trusted partners early (lighting, FF&E, or case goods specialists) to ground your creative vision in realistic budgets and avoid costly redesign cycles.
  • Dedicate a portion of time each week to innovation. Even two hours of “white space” thinking can spark ideas that transform projects and strengthen team collaboration.
  • Mentor younger designers by channeling their raw creativity into workable solutions, blending fresh energy with experienced guidance to push design forward.
  • Treat sustainability as both a design principle and a responsibility. Look for ways to repurpose structures, reduce waste, and give back to the community through your projects.

Quote of the Show:

“ Let's not try to hit the brain, let’s try to hit the heart.  Let the story really relate to what we wanna say, not just literally, but emotionally.” - James Lee


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What makes hospitality design truly memorable?

Today, Dan is joined by James Lee, Hospitality Managing Director and Design Principal at IA Interior Architects. James discusses the blurring lines between architecture and interior design in the context of hospitality, emphasizing the emotional impact of interior spaces. They explore the unique focus of IA on creating immersive and memorable experiences through design. James shares insights on the importance of understanding local culture for international projects, the role of social media in contemporary design research, and the significance of budget considerations in executing successful hospitality projects. Additionally, the conversation highlights the team's innovative approach, exemplified by their radical innovation project, 'The Passage,' aimed at repurposing abandoned railway lines into sustainable hotel destinations. James discusses the collaborative efforts within IA and emphasizes nurturing young talent to drive creative and impactful design solutions.


Takeaways: 

  • Blur the lines between architecture and interiors to create seamless, holistic hospitality experiences that connect with both the mind and the heart.
  • Lead with storytelling in your design process. A powerful narrative makes spaces resonate emotionally and ensures people remember the moments they experience there.
  • Involve local culture and community in your projects by researching social media, visiting neighborhoods, and identifying authentic “sense of place” elements to celebrate.
  • Engage trusted partners early (lighting, FF&E, or case goods specialists) to ground your creative vision in realistic budgets and avoid costly redesign cycles.
  • Dedicate a portion of time each week to innovation. Even two hours of “white space” thinking can spark ideas that transform projects and strengthen team collaboration.
  • Mentor younger designers by channeling their raw creativity into workable solutions, blending fresh energy with experienced guidance to push design forward.
  • Treat sustainability as both a design principle and a responsibility. Look for ways to repurpose structures, reduce waste, and give back to the community through your projects.

Quote of the Show:

“ Let's not try to hit the brain, let’s try to hit the heart.  Let the story really relate to what we wanna say, not just literally, but emotionally.” - James Lee


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2724 What makes hospitality design truly memorable?

Today, Dan is joined by James Lee, Hospitality Managing Director and Design Principal at IA Interior Architects. James discusses the blurring lines between architecture and interior design in the context of hospitality, emphasizing the emotional impact of interior spaces. They explore the unique focus of IA on creating immersive and memorable experiences through design. James shares insights on the importance of understanding local culture for international projects, the role of social media in contemporary design research, and the significance of budget considerations in executing successful hospitality projects. Additionally, the conversation highlights the team's innovative approach, exemplified by their radical innovation project, 'The Passage,' aimed at repurposing abandoned railway lines into sustainable hotel destinations. James discusses the collaborative efforts within IA and emphasizes nurturing young talent to drive creative and impactful design solutions.


Takeaways: 

  • Blur the lines between architecture and interiors to create seamless, holistic hospitality experiences that connect with both the mind and the heart.
  • Lead with storytelling in your design process. A powerful narrative makes spaces resonate emotionally and ensures people remember the moments they experience there.
  • Involve local culture and community in your projects by researching social media, visiting neighborhoods, and identifying authentic “sense of place” elements to celebrate.
  • Engage trusted partners early (lighting, FF&E, or case goods specialists) to ground your creative vision in realistic budgets and avoid costly redesign cycles.
  • Dedicate a portion of time each week to innovation. Even two hours of “white space” thinking can spark ideas that transform projects and strengthen team collaboration.
  • Mentor younger designers by channeling their raw creativity into workable solutions, blending fresh energy with experienced guidance to push design forward.
  • Treat sustainability as both a design principle and a responsibility. Look for ways to repurpose structures, reduce waste, and give back to the community through your projects.

Quote of the Show:

“ Let's not try to hit the brain, let’s try to hit the heart.  Let the story really relate to what we wanna say, not just literally, but emotionally.” - James Lee


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Beyond Four Walls: Luxury Through Biophilic Design - Grame Labe - Defining Hospitality - Ep #220 220 220 Beyond Four Walls: Luxury Through Biophilic Design - Grame Labe - Defining Hospitality - Ep #220 full cb3d4cf3-b991-44e5-b47e-06f252767fb9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3d8dc5fc What happens when luxury design meets the wild?

Award-winning designer, Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers, shares how he’s redefining hospitality by crafting experiences that connect people deeply to nature, while championing sustainability and community. Graeme shares his journey from traditional hospitality design to founding Luxury Frontiers, which focuses on creating unique, luxurious experiences in remote locations. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of experiential hospitality, the challenges of working in remote environments, and the role of sustainability and community engagement in their projects. Graeme also discusses the innovation culture within his team, their participation in the Radical Innovation Award, and the significance of site-specific design.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating unique, immersive experiences that connect guests to their environment, rather than just providing traditional luxury.
  • Design experiences that gently push guests out of their comfort zones, allowing them to grow while still feeling safe and cared for.
  • Integrate sustainability into every aspect of your projects: from site selection and building materials to community engagement and ongoing operations.
  • Foster a culture of innovation within your team. Set up internal labs or competitions to encourage experimentation with new materials and ideas.
  • Use natural materials and let the surrounding environment take center stage in your designs. Break down barriers between indoors and outdoors to enhance biophilic experiences.
  • Thoughtfully integrate technology to improve comfort and accessibility, but also create opportunities for guests to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
  • Treat logistical, regulatory, and environmental constraints as opportunities to innovate and improve your designs.

Quote of the Show:

“ It’s those moments that take you out of your comfort zone, when you’re truly immersed in a place, that change your life. That’s the kind of experience we try to design for.” - Graeme Labe


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What happens when luxury design meets the wild?

Award-winning designer, Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers, shares how he’s redefining hospitality by crafting experiences that connect people deeply to nature, while championing sustainability and community. Graeme shares his journey from traditional hospitality design to founding Luxury Frontiers, which focuses on creating unique, luxurious experiences in remote locations. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of experiential hospitality, the challenges of working in remote environments, and the role of sustainability and community engagement in their projects. Graeme also discusses the innovation culture within his team, their participation in the Radical Innovation Award, and the significance of site-specific design.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating unique, immersive experiences that connect guests to their environment, rather than just providing traditional luxury.
  • Design experiences that gently push guests out of their comfort zones, allowing them to grow while still feeling safe and cared for.
  • Integrate sustainability into every aspect of your projects: from site selection and building materials to community engagement and ongoing operations.
  • Foster a culture of innovation within your team. Set up internal labs or competitions to encourage experimentation with new materials and ideas.
  • Use natural materials and let the surrounding environment take center stage in your designs. Break down barriers between indoors and outdoors to enhance biophilic experiences.
  • Thoughtfully integrate technology to improve comfort and accessibility, but also create opportunities for guests to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
  • Treat logistical, regulatory, and environmental constraints as opportunities to innovate and improve your designs.

Quote of the Show:

“ It’s those moments that take you out of your comfort zone, when you’re truly immersed in a place, that change your life. That’s the kind of experience we try to design for.” - Graeme Labe


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3249 What happens when luxury design meets the wild?

Award-winning designer, Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers, shares how he’s redefining hospitality by crafting experiences that connect people deeply to nature, while championing sustainability and community. Graeme shares his journey from traditional hospitality design to founding Luxury Frontiers, which focuses on creating unique, luxurious experiences in remote locations. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of experiential hospitality, the challenges of working in remote environments, and the role of sustainability and community engagement in their projects. Graeme also discusses the innovation culture within his team, their participation in the Radical Innovation Award, and the significance of site-specific design.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating unique, immersive experiences that connect guests to their environment, rather than just providing traditional luxury.
  • Design experiences that gently push guests out of their comfort zones, allowing them to grow while still feeling safe and cared for.
  • Integrate sustainability into every aspect of your projects: from site selection and building materials to community engagement and ongoing operations.
  • Foster a culture of innovation within your team. Set up internal labs or competitions to encourage experimentation with new materials and ideas.
  • Use natural materials and let the surrounding environment take center stage in your designs. Break down barriers between indoors and outdoors to enhance biophilic experiences.
  • Thoughtfully integrate technology to improve comfort and accessibility, but also create opportunities for guests to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
  • Treat logistical, regulatory, and environmental constraints as opportunities to innovate and improve your designs.

Quote of the Show:

“ It’s those moments that take you out of your comfort zone, when you’re truly immersed in a place, that change your life. That’s the kind of experience we try to design for.” - Graeme Labe


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Leading Hotels Through Change - Scott Roby - Defining Hospitality - Episode #219 219 219 Leading Hotels Through Change - Scott Roby - Defining Hospitality - Episode #219 full 333d2e3a-1c7d-487e-ab94-67d633e12182 https://share.transistor.fm/s/50d544de What does it take to lead a hotel company through constant headwinds while still inspiring teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences?

Today Dan interviews Scott Roby, President of Pacifica Hotels, to explore the state of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of business, such as team and guest care, amid economic headwinds and legislative challenges in California. Scott shares insights on Pacifica's strategy of balancing ownership and third-party management, the value of maintaining a strong company culture, and the critical role of technology in the industry. The conversation also touches upon the future prospects and financial strategies for 2026 and beyond, emphasizing a meticulous approach to cost management and team accountability.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage team members to share where they’re stuck or what could make their jobs better. Leaders should model vulnerability and ask focused questions like, “What’s one thing I can do to make your job easier?”
  • Embrace technology and AI to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. Use tech to remove rote tasks, freeing up staff for more meaningful guest interactions.
  • When working with third-party owners or management partners, ensure alignment in values and culture. Have honest conversations early to avoid misfits that can erode company culture.
  • Monitor both macro and micro trends in your market. Be prepared to pivot operations, staffing, and capital allocation as needed to respond to changing conditions.
  • Build a culture of accountability. Be direct, give open feedback, and focus on solutions. Transparency with owners and team members builds trust and drives better results.
  • Offer opportunities for team members to advance within your organization, which helps with retention and creates a stronger, more flexible workforce.
  • At its core, hospitality is about making people feel safe, seen, and heard. Whether with guests or team members, focus on building relationships and delivering care.

Quote of the Show:

“A hotel management company is its people. The quality of the company is first and foremost about the people that they have on their team and how they're leading and inspiring the hotel teams.” - Scott Roby


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does it take to lead a hotel company through constant headwinds while still inspiring teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences?

Today Dan interviews Scott Roby, President of Pacifica Hotels, to explore the state of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of business, such as team and guest care, amid economic headwinds and legislative challenges in California. Scott shares insights on Pacifica's strategy of balancing ownership and third-party management, the value of maintaining a strong company culture, and the critical role of technology in the industry. The conversation also touches upon the future prospects and financial strategies for 2026 and beyond, emphasizing a meticulous approach to cost management and team accountability.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage team members to share where they’re stuck or what could make their jobs better. Leaders should model vulnerability and ask focused questions like, “What’s one thing I can do to make your job easier?”
  • Embrace technology and AI to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. Use tech to remove rote tasks, freeing up staff for more meaningful guest interactions.
  • When working with third-party owners or management partners, ensure alignment in values and culture. Have honest conversations early to avoid misfits that can erode company culture.
  • Monitor both macro and micro trends in your market. Be prepared to pivot operations, staffing, and capital allocation as needed to respond to changing conditions.
  • Build a culture of accountability. Be direct, give open feedback, and focus on solutions. Transparency with owners and team members builds trust and drives better results.
  • Offer opportunities for team members to advance within your organization, which helps with retention and creates a stronger, more flexible workforce.
  • At its core, hospitality is about making people feel safe, seen, and heard. Whether with guests or team members, focus on building relationships and delivering care.

Quote of the Show:

“A hotel management company is its people. The quality of the company is first and foremost about the people that they have on their team and how they're leading and inspiring the hotel teams.” - Scott Roby


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3858 What does it take to lead a hotel company through constant headwinds while still inspiring teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences?

Today Dan interviews Scott Roby, President of Pacifica Hotels, to explore the state of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of business, such as team and guest care, amid economic headwinds and legislative challenges in California. Scott shares insights on Pacifica's strategy of balancing ownership and third-party management, the value of maintaining a strong company culture, and the critical role of technology in the industry. The conversation also touches upon the future prospects and financial strategies for 2026 and beyond, emphasizing a meticulous approach to cost management and team accountability.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage team members to share where they’re stuck or what could make their jobs better. Leaders should model vulnerability and ask focused questions like, “What’s one thing I can do to make your job easier?”
  • Embrace technology and AI to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. Use tech to remove rote tasks, freeing up staff for more meaningful guest interactions.
  • When working with third-party owners or management partners, ensure alignment in values and culture. Have honest conversations early to avoid misfits that can erode company culture.
  • Monitor both macro and micro trends in your market. Be prepared to pivot operations, staffing, and capital allocation as needed to respond to changing conditions.
  • Build a culture of accountability. Be direct, give open feedback, and focus on solutions. Transparency with owners and team members builds trust and drives better results.
  • Offer opportunities for team members to advance within your organization, which helps with retention and creates a stronger, more flexible workforce.
  • At its core, hospitality is about making people feel safe, seen, and heard. Whether with guests or team members, focus on building relationships and delivering care.

Quote of the Show:

“A hotel management company is its people. The quality of the company is first and foremost about the people that they have on their team and how they're leading and inspiring the hotel teams.” - Scott Roby


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Serving From the Heart: EQ Over IQ - Manish Puri - Defining Hospitality - Episode #218 218 218 Serving From the Heart: EQ Over IQ - Manish Puri - Defining Hospitality - Episode #218 full a653ebd9-30bd-42a0-8ffa-f866a1e21da5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/65feae96 Is EQ more important than IQ when it comes to hospitality?

Today, Manish Puri, General Manager of the Regent Hotels and Resorts Bali, joins Dan to dive into key topics in the industry, such as sustainability, community, and leadership. They discuss the essence of hospitality, differentiating it from mere service, and delve into the concept of regenerative hospitality and sustainability. Manish shares insights from his career at prestigious hotel brands like Oberoi, Burj Al Arab, Six Senses, and Regent Bali. They explore how sustainability initiatives can transform the industry, turning cost centers into investment centers, and the importance of heartfelt service. The conversation also covers the challenges of opening and managing new hotels and the impact of leadership and open-heartedness in inspiring younger generations in the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace regenerative practices by viewing waste as an opportunity to create value, turning sustainability efforts into investments rather than costs.
  • Lead by example and integrity. Your actions are always being observed, so inspire others by consistently doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
  • Pay attention to the small details in your work. Excellence is built on thousands of thoughtful, consistent actions rather than a single grand gesture.
  • Foster a culture of genuine care and positivity. Small acts of kindness and authentic smiles can create a powerful ripple effect throughout your organization.
  • Design guest programs that encourage visitors to give back to the local community, such as volunteering or sharing their expertise, creating a positive impact beyond their stay.
  • Treat sustainability initiatives as opportunities for investment and growth, not just as expenses. Find ways to turn environmental responsibility into tangible value.

Quote of the Show:

“ A luxury brand has to have that caring side of it. Caring for the environment, caring for all stakeholders, caring for the community. Without it, you are not a complete hotel.” - Manish Puri


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Is EQ more important than IQ when it comes to hospitality?

Today, Manish Puri, General Manager of the Regent Hotels and Resorts Bali, joins Dan to dive into key topics in the industry, such as sustainability, community, and leadership. They discuss the essence of hospitality, differentiating it from mere service, and delve into the concept of regenerative hospitality and sustainability. Manish shares insights from his career at prestigious hotel brands like Oberoi, Burj Al Arab, Six Senses, and Regent Bali. They explore how sustainability initiatives can transform the industry, turning cost centers into investment centers, and the importance of heartfelt service. The conversation also covers the challenges of opening and managing new hotels and the impact of leadership and open-heartedness in inspiring younger generations in the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace regenerative practices by viewing waste as an opportunity to create value, turning sustainability efforts into investments rather than costs.
  • Lead by example and integrity. Your actions are always being observed, so inspire others by consistently doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
  • Pay attention to the small details in your work. Excellence is built on thousands of thoughtful, consistent actions rather than a single grand gesture.
  • Foster a culture of genuine care and positivity. Small acts of kindness and authentic smiles can create a powerful ripple effect throughout your organization.
  • Design guest programs that encourage visitors to give back to the local community, such as volunteering or sharing their expertise, creating a positive impact beyond their stay.
  • Treat sustainability initiatives as opportunities for investment and growth, not just as expenses. Find ways to turn environmental responsibility into tangible value.

Quote of the Show:

“ A luxury brand has to have that caring side of it. Caring for the environment, caring for all stakeholders, caring for the community. Without it, you are not a complete hotel.” - Manish Puri


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3272 Is EQ more important than IQ when it comes to hospitality?

Today, Manish Puri, General Manager of the Regent Hotels and Resorts Bali, joins Dan to dive into key topics in the industry, such as sustainability, community, and leadership. They discuss the essence of hospitality, differentiating it from mere service, and delve into the concept of regenerative hospitality and sustainability. Manish shares insights from his career at prestigious hotel brands like Oberoi, Burj Al Arab, Six Senses, and Regent Bali. They explore how sustainability initiatives can transform the industry, turning cost centers into investment centers, and the importance of heartfelt service. The conversation also covers the challenges of opening and managing new hotels and the impact of leadership and open-heartedness in inspiring younger generations in the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace regenerative practices by viewing waste as an opportunity to create value, turning sustainability efforts into investments rather than costs.
  • Lead by example and integrity. Your actions are always being observed, so inspire others by consistently doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
  • Pay attention to the small details in your work. Excellence is built on thousands of thoughtful, consistent actions rather than a single grand gesture.
  • Foster a culture of genuine care and positivity. Small acts of kindness and authentic smiles can create a powerful ripple effect throughout your organization.
  • Design guest programs that encourage visitors to give back to the local community, such as volunteering or sharing their expertise, creating a positive impact beyond their stay.
  • Treat sustainability initiatives as opportunities for investment and growth, not just as expenses. Find ways to turn environmental responsibility into tangible value.

Quote of the Show:

“ A luxury brand has to have that caring side of it. Caring for the environment, caring for all stakeholders, caring for the community. Without it, you are not a complete hotel.” - Manish Puri


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Navigating the Messy Middle - Stephen Wendell - Defining Hospitality - Episode #217 217 217 Navigating the Messy Middle - Stephen Wendell - Defining Hospitality - Episode #217 full f177bfa9-465f-467f-88f9-266f950b9503 https://share.transistor.fm/s/77bf5595 What happens when a hotel developer moves from building Hampton Inns to creating lifestyle hotels with fire pits and Michelin-starred restaurants?

Today’s guest is a returning guest, Stephen Wendell, Co-Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. They explore the shift from select-service properties to luxury and lifestyle hotels, examining the business dynamics and guest experiences that differentiate these segments. Steven shares insights on building independent lifestyle hotels, dealing with construction challenges, financing, and the pivotal role of major brands and creative freedom. They also discuss the evolving demands of younger travelers and the potential for lifestyle hotels to serve as cultural hubs. The conversation touches on financing strategies, the impact of current economic conditions, and the balance between guest experience and profitability.


Takeaways: 

  • The most successful hospitality projects prioritize unique, memorable experiences for guests, which can lead to long-term loyalty and word-of-mouth growth.
  • Each project is a learning opportunity. Apply lessons from past mistakes to improve future outcomes and avoid repeating errors.
  • Consider a mix of select service and lifestyle/boutique properties to balance stability with higher-reward opportunities.
  • Affiliation with major brands can make financing easier and provide valuable marketing/distribution support, but weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
  • The best hotels become hubs for both guests and locals. Create spaces and experiences that attract both groups.
  • Younger travelers value experiences over points. Offer unique, local collaborations and experiences to attract and retain this demographic.
  • Hospitality is a long-term business. Set expectations with investors and partners accordingly, and operate with a long-term mindset.

Quote of the Show:

“Some people quit in the messy middle. We’ve pushed through, and now we know what to do and how to do it.” - Stephen Wendell


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What happens when a hotel developer moves from building Hampton Inns to creating lifestyle hotels with fire pits and Michelin-starred restaurants?

Today’s guest is a returning guest, Stephen Wendell, Co-Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. They explore the shift from select-service properties to luxury and lifestyle hotels, examining the business dynamics and guest experiences that differentiate these segments. Steven shares insights on building independent lifestyle hotels, dealing with construction challenges, financing, and the pivotal role of major brands and creative freedom. They also discuss the evolving demands of younger travelers and the potential for lifestyle hotels to serve as cultural hubs. The conversation touches on financing strategies, the impact of current economic conditions, and the balance between guest experience and profitability.


Takeaways: 

  • The most successful hospitality projects prioritize unique, memorable experiences for guests, which can lead to long-term loyalty and word-of-mouth growth.
  • Each project is a learning opportunity. Apply lessons from past mistakes to improve future outcomes and avoid repeating errors.
  • Consider a mix of select service and lifestyle/boutique properties to balance stability with higher-reward opportunities.
  • Affiliation with major brands can make financing easier and provide valuable marketing/distribution support, but weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
  • The best hotels become hubs for both guests and locals. Create spaces and experiences that attract both groups.
  • Younger travelers value experiences over points. Offer unique, local collaborations and experiences to attract and retain this demographic.
  • Hospitality is a long-term business. Set expectations with investors and partners accordingly, and operate with a long-term mindset.

Quote of the Show:

“Some people quit in the messy middle. We’ve pushed through, and now we know what to do and how to do it.” - Stephen Wendell


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3821 What happens when a hotel developer moves from building Hampton Inns to creating lifestyle hotels with fire pits and Michelin-starred restaurants?

Today’s guest is a returning guest, Stephen Wendell, Co-Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. They explore the shift from select-service properties to luxury and lifestyle hotels, examining the business dynamics and guest experiences that differentiate these segments. Steven shares insights on building independent lifestyle hotels, dealing with construction challenges, financing, and the pivotal role of major brands and creative freedom. They also discuss the evolving demands of younger travelers and the potential for lifestyle hotels to serve as cultural hubs. The conversation touches on financing strategies, the impact of current economic conditions, and the balance between guest experience and profitability.


Takeaways: 

  • The most successful hospitality projects prioritize unique, memorable experiences for guests, which can lead to long-term loyalty and word-of-mouth growth.
  • Each project is a learning opportunity. Apply lessons from past mistakes to improve future outcomes and avoid repeating errors.
  • Consider a mix of select service and lifestyle/boutique properties to balance stability with higher-reward opportunities.
  • Affiliation with major brands can make financing easier and provide valuable marketing/distribution support, but weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
  • The best hotels become hubs for both guests and locals. Create spaces and experiences that attract both groups.
  • Younger travelers value experiences over points. Offer unique, local collaborations and experiences to attract and retain this demographic.
  • Hospitality is a long-term business. Set expectations with investors and partners accordingly, and operate with a long-term mindset.

Quote of the Show:

“Some people quit in the messy middle. We’ve pushed through, and now we know what to do and how to do it.” - Stephen Wendell


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt From Distress to Success: Hospitality Innovation - Spencer Levine - Defining Hospitality - Ep #216 216 216 From Distress to Success: Hospitality Innovation - Spencer Levine - Defining Hospitality - Ep #216 full 63f1b0ee-f00e-44ad-b23b-a72101f05357 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a41a667 “Design is subjective, but quality is objective.”

Today, Spencer Levine, President of RAL Companies and Affiliates, joins Dan to dive into hospitality development. Spencer shares insights from his extensive career in architecture and landscape development. The conversation covers the importance of delivering tangible and thoughtful hospitality experiences, the significance of strategic partnerships, and the crucial role of creative problem-solving in the development process. Spencer also delves into his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis and how it shaped his company's approach to handling distressed projects. Additionally, he reflects on lessons from his father and the impact of company culture on successful project execution.


Takeaways: 

  • Exceptional service can overcome shortcomings in physical spaces. Focus on delivering care and responsiveness to guests and clients.
  • Approach challenges by seeking solutions, not dwelling on problems. Be proactive and creative, especially when facing constraints.
  • Invest in relationships and develop a strong network, both internally and externally. Know who to call when you need expertise beyond your own.
  • Strive for authenticity in design and experience. Make spaces and services reflect the unique character of their location and purpose.
  • Take personal responsibility for your work and encourage accountability within your team. Share knowledge and support each other to achieve common goals.
  • No task is beneath you. Be ready to do whatever it takes to deliver a project, from high-level strategy to hands-on work.
  • Make decisions with intention and commit to them. Don’t get stuck in indecision. Pivot if needed, but move forward with conviction.

Quote of the Show:

“Design is not necessarily just beautiful, it's making a decision and forging ahead with it.” - Spencer Levine


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> “Design is subjective, but quality is objective.”

Today, Spencer Levine, President of RAL Companies and Affiliates, joins Dan to dive into hospitality development. Spencer shares insights from his extensive career in architecture and landscape development. The conversation covers the importance of delivering tangible and thoughtful hospitality experiences, the significance of strategic partnerships, and the crucial role of creative problem-solving in the development process. Spencer also delves into his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis and how it shaped his company's approach to handling distressed projects. Additionally, he reflects on lessons from his father and the impact of company culture on successful project execution.


Takeaways: 

  • Exceptional service can overcome shortcomings in physical spaces. Focus on delivering care and responsiveness to guests and clients.
  • Approach challenges by seeking solutions, not dwelling on problems. Be proactive and creative, especially when facing constraints.
  • Invest in relationships and develop a strong network, both internally and externally. Know who to call when you need expertise beyond your own.
  • Strive for authenticity in design and experience. Make spaces and services reflect the unique character of their location and purpose.
  • Take personal responsibility for your work and encourage accountability within your team. Share knowledge and support each other to achieve common goals.
  • No task is beneath you. Be ready to do whatever it takes to deliver a project, from high-level strategy to hands-on work.
  • Make decisions with intention and commit to them. Don’t get stuck in indecision. Pivot if needed, but move forward with conviction.

Quote of the Show:

“Design is not necessarily just beautiful, it's making a decision and forging ahead with it.” - Spencer Levine


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4190 “Design is subjective, but quality is objective.”

Today, Spencer Levine, President of RAL Companies and Affiliates, joins Dan to dive into hospitality development. Spencer shares insights from his extensive career in architecture and landscape development. The conversation covers the importance of delivering tangible and thoughtful hospitality experiences, the significance of strategic partnerships, and the crucial role of creative problem-solving in the development process. Spencer also delves into his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis and how it shaped his company's approach to handling distressed projects. Additionally, he reflects on lessons from his father and the impact of company culture on successful project execution.


Takeaways: 

  • Exceptional service can overcome shortcomings in physical spaces. Focus on delivering care and responsiveness to guests and clients.
  • Approach challenges by seeking solutions, not dwelling on problems. Be proactive and creative, especially when facing constraints.
  • Invest in relationships and develop a strong network, both internally and externally. Know who to call when you need expertise beyond your own.
  • Strive for authenticity in design and experience. Make spaces and services reflect the unique character of their location and purpose.
  • Take personal responsibility for your work and encourage accountability within your team. Share knowledge and support each other to achieve common goals.
  • No task is beneath you. Be ready to do whatever it takes to deliver a project, from high-level strategy to hands-on work.
  • Make decisions with intention and commit to them. Don’t get stuck in indecision. Pivot if needed, but move forward with conviction.

Quote of the Show:

“Design is not necessarily just beautiful, it's making a decision and forging ahead with it.” - Spencer Levine


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Elevating Hospitality: Sustainable Engineering - Harzali Hashim - Defining Hospitality - Episode #215 215 215 Elevating Hospitality: Sustainable Engineering - Harzali Hashim - Defining Hospitality - Episode #215 full 38c383da-25af-4520-81a0-447c9fcc7b2a https://share.transistor.fm/s/66c072aa The secret to a hotel's success isn’t just great design; it's what guests don't see.

Harzali Hashim, Complex Director of Engineering at Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu, joins Dan to discuss sustainability engineering within the hospitality industry. They discuss Harzali's extensive 20-year career in hotel and resort engineering, focusing on the importance of maintenance, design, and sustainability in creating memorable guest experiences. They explore the operational challenges of managing historic properties, the significance of green engineering, and the collaborative efforts across the industry to uphold high standards. The episode also touches on Harzali's leadership within the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association's Engineers Advisory Council and his proactive approach in mentoring and fostering sustainability initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests, not just through amenities but also through attentive service and a welcoming environment.
  • Regularly maintain both visible and behind-the-scenes infrastructure to ensure long-term property value and guest satisfaction.
  • Implement sustainable practices, such as energy and water conservation, and educate both staff and guests on their importance.
  • Build strong relationships with all stakeholders: designers, engineers, housekeeping, and ownership to ensure successful projects and renovations.
  • Be willing to rethink traditional processes and adapt quickly to changing circumstances for more efficient project delivery.
  • Maintain honest and open communication with all project stakeholders to reduce misunderstandings and accelerate progress.
  • Engage in community service and industry events to strengthen local ties and contribute positively beyond your organization.

Quote of the Show:

“Sustainability has been part of me for a while. Being here in Hawaii, embracing the local community means being sustainable.” - Harzali Hashim


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> The secret to a hotel's success isn’t just great design; it's what guests don't see.

Harzali Hashim, Complex Director of Engineering at Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu, joins Dan to discuss sustainability engineering within the hospitality industry. They discuss Harzali's extensive 20-year career in hotel and resort engineering, focusing on the importance of maintenance, design, and sustainability in creating memorable guest experiences. They explore the operational challenges of managing historic properties, the significance of green engineering, and the collaborative efforts across the industry to uphold high standards. The episode also touches on Harzali's leadership within the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association's Engineers Advisory Council and his proactive approach in mentoring and fostering sustainability initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests, not just through amenities but also through attentive service and a welcoming environment.
  • Regularly maintain both visible and behind-the-scenes infrastructure to ensure long-term property value and guest satisfaction.
  • Implement sustainable practices, such as energy and water conservation, and educate both staff and guests on their importance.
  • Build strong relationships with all stakeholders: designers, engineers, housekeeping, and ownership to ensure successful projects and renovations.
  • Be willing to rethink traditional processes and adapt quickly to changing circumstances for more efficient project delivery.
  • Maintain honest and open communication with all project stakeholders to reduce misunderstandings and accelerate progress.
  • Engage in community service and industry events to strengthen local ties and contribute positively beyond your organization.

Quote of the Show:

“Sustainability has been part of me for a while. Being here in Hawaii, embracing the local community means being sustainable.” - Harzali Hashim


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3291 The secret to a hotel's success isn’t just great design; it's what guests don't see.

Harzali Hashim, Complex Director of Engineering at Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu, joins Dan to discuss sustainability engineering within the hospitality industry. They discuss Harzali's extensive 20-year career in hotel and resort engineering, focusing on the importance of maintenance, design, and sustainability in creating memorable guest experiences. They explore the operational challenges of managing historic properties, the significance of green engineering, and the collaborative efforts across the industry to uphold high standards. The episode also touches on Harzali's leadership within the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association's Engineers Advisory Council and his proactive approach in mentoring and fostering sustainability initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests, not just through amenities but also through attentive service and a welcoming environment.
  • Regularly maintain both visible and behind-the-scenes infrastructure to ensure long-term property value and guest satisfaction.
  • Implement sustainable practices, such as energy and water conservation, and educate both staff and guests on their importance.
  • Build strong relationships with all stakeholders: designers, engineers, housekeeping, and ownership to ensure successful projects and renovations.
  • Be willing to rethink traditional processes and adapt quickly to changing circumstances for more efficient project delivery.
  • Maintain honest and open communication with all project stakeholders to reduce misunderstandings and accelerate progress.
  • Engage in community service and industry events to strengthen local ties and contribute positively beyond your organization.

Quote of the Show:

“Sustainability has been part of me for a while. Being here in Hawaii, embracing the local community means being sustainable.” - Harzali Hashim


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Scaling Short-Term Rentals - Sebastián Torres-Calderón - Defining Hospitality - Episode #214 214 214 Scaling Short-Term Rentals - Sebastián Torres-Calderón - Defining Hospitality - Episode #214 full 7e277997-139a-4588-8c3c-2c3914b1f068 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0309d7bb What does it take to manage 420 apartments and create a million memorable moments? 

On this episode, host Dan Ryan sits down with Sebastián Torres-Calderón, the CEO of Stay U-nique, an award-winning short-term rental company in Spain. Sebastián shares his journey from customer journey intern to CEO and reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped his company not only survive the chaos of COVID but quadruple in size. The conversation dives deep into how Stay U-nique uses data and technology to create a frictionless guest experience, the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, and the political headwinds facing the short-term rental market. Sebastián offers a unique perspective on the debate between prohibition and regulation and provides a powerful case for why collaboration between the private and public sectors is the key to solving housing inventory issues.


Takeaways: 

  • Track key metrics (KPIs) across all departments, not just leadership, to identify and address recurring issues. Use data to drive improvements in guest experience, operations, and communication.
  • Use frameworks such as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to set clear goals, break them into manageable projects (“rocks”), and review progress regularly. Involve the entire team in the process for maximum impact.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, learn, and adapt. Regularly test new approaches, measure their impact, and iterate quickly. 
  • Use technology to streamline operations (e.g., remote locks, cleaning apps) and enhance the guest experience, but ensure it remains personal and responsive.
  • Success takes time and consistent effort. Focus on long-term growth rather than immediate results.
  • Empower every team member with ownership of projects and clear goals to drive company-wide improvement.

Quote of the Show:

“To take that time and make it something that they will remember forever, and get to do that every day, that's amazing.” - Sebastián Torres-Calderón


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does it take to manage 420 apartments and create a million memorable moments? 

On this episode, host Dan Ryan sits down with Sebastián Torres-Calderón, the CEO of Stay U-nique, an award-winning short-term rental company in Spain. Sebastián shares his journey from customer journey intern to CEO and reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped his company not only survive the chaos of COVID but quadruple in size. The conversation dives deep into how Stay U-nique uses data and technology to create a frictionless guest experience, the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, and the political headwinds facing the short-term rental market. Sebastián offers a unique perspective on the debate between prohibition and regulation and provides a powerful case for why collaboration between the private and public sectors is the key to solving housing inventory issues.


Takeaways: 

  • Track key metrics (KPIs) across all departments, not just leadership, to identify and address recurring issues. Use data to drive improvements in guest experience, operations, and communication.
  • Use frameworks such as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to set clear goals, break them into manageable projects (“rocks”), and review progress regularly. Involve the entire team in the process for maximum impact.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, learn, and adapt. Regularly test new approaches, measure their impact, and iterate quickly. 
  • Use technology to streamline operations (e.g., remote locks, cleaning apps) and enhance the guest experience, but ensure it remains personal and responsive.
  • Success takes time and consistent effort. Focus on long-term growth rather than immediate results.
  • Empower every team member with ownership of projects and clear goals to drive company-wide improvement.

Quote of the Show:

“To take that time and make it something that they will remember forever, and get to do that every day, that's amazing.” - Sebastián Torres-Calderón


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3318 What does it take to manage 420 apartments and create a million memorable moments? 

On this episode, host Dan Ryan sits down with Sebastián Torres-Calderón, the CEO of Stay U-nique, an award-winning short-term rental company in Spain. Sebastián shares his journey from customer journey intern to CEO and reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped his company not only survive the chaos of COVID but quadruple in size. The conversation dives deep into how Stay U-nique uses data and technology to create a frictionless guest experience, the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, and the political headwinds facing the short-term rental market. Sebastián offers a unique perspective on the debate between prohibition and regulation and provides a powerful case for why collaboration between the private and public sectors is the key to solving housing inventory issues.


Takeaways: 

  • Track key metrics (KPIs) across all departments, not just leadership, to identify and address recurring issues. Use data to drive improvements in guest experience, operations, and communication.
  • Use frameworks such as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to set clear goals, break them into manageable projects (“rocks”), and review progress regularly. Involve the entire team in the process for maximum impact.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, learn, and adapt. Regularly test new approaches, measure their impact, and iterate quickly. 
  • Use technology to streamline operations (e.g., remote locks, cleaning apps) and enhance the guest experience, but ensure it remains personal and responsive.
  • Success takes time and consistent effort. Focus on long-term growth rather than immediate results.
  • Empower every team member with ownership of projects and clear goals to drive company-wide improvement.

Quote of the Show:

“To take that time and make it something that they will remember forever, and get to do that every day, that's amazing.” - Sebastián Torres-Calderón


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Cultivating a Host Mindset - Steve Fortunato - Defining Hospitality - Episode #213 213 213 Cultivating a Host Mindset - Steve Fortunato - Defining Hospitality - Episode #213 full ee2cce55-3547-461b-8fe7-568642948b78 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ef98bd24 What does it mean to develop a host mindset?

Today, Dan dives into the transformative principles of the 'host mindset' with Steve Fortunato, founder of roomforty and the Fig House. Steve shares his journey from a restaurateur and caterer to becoming an influential leadership facilitator, emphasizing the importance of making others feel valued. The conversation highlights the impact of hospitality in business, practical strategies to foster engagement, and the significance of personal growth and generosity-driven cultures. This episode is a deep exploration of how hospitality principles can enhance both personal and professional interactions, creating a kinder and collaborative environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach every interaction, whether with clients, colleagues, or customers, with the intention to make others feel valued and cared for.
  • Define a small set of practical, non-aspirational values that are deeply linked to your mission and vision. Integrate them into hiring, training, and daily operations.
  • Seek out coaches, mentors, or peer groups who challenge you and help you grow. Stay open to learning and feedback.
  • Give value first, without expecting immediate returns. Trust that value will come back to you through the virtuous cycle of generosity.
  • Apply hospitality beyond the industry. Use these principles in any field or relationship.
  • Even in gig-based or temporary workforces, make people feel important and included to inspire better performance and loyalty.
  • Recognize that mastery is a journey, not a destination. Stay humble, coachable, and always strive to be better.

Quote of the Show:

“ I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a virtue.” - Steve Fortunato


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does it mean to develop a host mindset?

Today, Dan dives into the transformative principles of the 'host mindset' with Steve Fortunato, founder of roomforty and the Fig House. Steve shares his journey from a restaurateur and caterer to becoming an influential leadership facilitator, emphasizing the importance of making others feel valued. The conversation highlights the impact of hospitality in business, practical strategies to foster engagement, and the significance of personal growth and generosity-driven cultures. This episode is a deep exploration of how hospitality principles can enhance both personal and professional interactions, creating a kinder and collaborative environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach every interaction, whether with clients, colleagues, or customers, with the intention to make others feel valued and cared for.
  • Define a small set of practical, non-aspirational values that are deeply linked to your mission and vision. Integrate them into hiring, training, and daily operations.
  • Seek out coaches, mentors, or peer groups who challenge you and help you grow. Stay open to learning and feedback.
  • Give value first, without expecting immediate returns. Trust that value will come back to you through the virtuous cycle of generosity.
  • Apply hospitality beyond the industry. Use these principles in any field or relationship.
  • Even in gig-based or temporary workforces, make people feel important and included to inspire better performance and loyalty.
  • Recognize that mastery is a journey, not a destination. Stay humble, coachable, and always strive to be better.

Quote of the Show:

“ I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a virtue.” - Steve Fortunato


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4039 What does it mean to develop a host mindset?

Today, Dan dives into the transformative principles of the 'host mindset' with Steve Fortunato, founder of roomforty and the Fig House. Steve shares his journey from a restaurateur and caterer to becoming an influential leadership facilitator, emphasizing the importance of making others feel valued. The conversation highlights the impact of hospitality in business, practical strategies to foster engagement, and the significance of personal growth and generosity-driven cultures. This episode is a deep exploration of how hospitality principles can enhance both personal and professional interactions, creating a kinder and collaborative environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach every interaction, whether with clients, colleagues, or customers, with the intention to make others feel valued and cared for.
  • Define a small set of practical, non-aspirational values that are deeply linked to your mission and vision. Integrate them into hiring, training, and daily operations.
  • Seek out coaches, mentors, or peer groups who challenge you and help you grow. Stay open to learning and feedback.
  • Give value first, without expecting immediate returns. Trust that value will come back to you through the virtuous cycle of generosity.
  • Apply hospitality beyond the industry. Use these principles in any field or relationship.
  • Even in gig-based or temporary workforces, make people feel important and included to inspire better performance and loyalty.
  • Recognize that mastery is a journey, not a destination. Stay humble, coachable, and always strive to be better.

Quote of the Show:

“ I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a virtue.” - Steve Fortunato


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Transformative Retreats - Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger - Defining Hospitality - Episode #212 212 212 Transformative Retreats - Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger - Defining Hospitality - Episode #212 full d03a0597-8a9f-4275-84a5-0201eca9cf9d https://share.transistor.fm/s/cfd21127 What is the power of providing unique experiences?


Today, Dan chats with the Co-Founders of Reset Hotels, Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger, about their unique hotel venture designed for the next generation of conscious travelers. Ben and Adam share insights from their journey in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of midweek group bookings for corporate and wellness retreats, and creating meaningful, immersive experiences in the vast, open spaces of Joshua Tree. The conversation explores the concept of 'reset' in hospitality, the value of modular construction in remote areas, and future visions including art installations, unique retreats, and potentially an interplanetary hotel. Join the conversation as they discuss how thoughtful design and unique experiences can transform simple stays into unforgettable journeys.


Takeaways:

  • Excellence in hospitality (and any field) comes from attention to detail and continuous improvement—strive to perfect the small things, not just the big vision.
  • Make sure you’re intentional about the guest experience. Always consider how you want people to feel during and after their experience with you, whether in hospitality, business, or daily life.
  • Prioritize midweek group and retreat bookings. They are a key driver of business success.
  • Be willing to evolve your ideas and operations as you learn from real-world experience. The best concepts often emerge from adapting to changing circumstances.
  • Move beyond generic spaces—offer unique, authentic moments (like outdoor activities, art installations, or surprise elements) that guests will remember and share.
  • Design experiences that encourage genuine interaction, such as group hikes, yoga at sunset, or shared reading materials.
  • Make it easy to deliver “magical” experiences by building thoughtful, repeatable systems (e.g., providing thank you cards and mailing them for guests).

Quote of the Show:

 ”I've always thought of hospitality as the craft of the welcome.” - Ben Uyeda

“ We fully intend to do all that. Just creating little moments of surprise for people out in the desert.” - Adam Wininger


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What is the power of providing unique experiences?


Today, Dan chats with the Co-Founders of Reset Hotels, Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger, about their unique hotel venture designed for the next generation of conscious travelers. Ben and Adam share insights from their journey in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of midweek group bookings for corporate and wellness retreats, and creating meaningful, immersive experiences in the vast, open spaces of Joshua Tree. The conversation explores the concept of 'reset' in hospitality, the value of modular construction in remote areas, and future visions including art installations, unique retreats, and potentially an interplanetary hotel. Join the conversation as they discuss how thoughtful design and unique experiences can transform simple stays into unforgettable journeys.


Takeaways:

  • Excellence in hospitality (and any field) comes from attention to detail and continuous improvement—strive to perfect the small things, not just the big vision.
  • Make sure you’re intentional about the guest experience. Always consider how you want people to feel during and after their experience with you, whether in hospitality, business, or daily life.
  • Prioritize midweek group and retreat bookings. They are a key driver of business success.
  • Be willing to evolve your ideas and operations as you learn from real-world experience. The best concepts often emerge from adapting to changing circumstances.
  • Move beyond generic spaces—offer unique, authentic moments (like outdoor activities, art installations, or surprise elements) that guests will remember and share.
  • Design experiences that encourage genuine interaction, such as group hikes, yoga at sunset, or shared reading materials.
  • Make it easy to deliver “magical” experiences by building thoughtful, repeatable systems (e.g., providing thank you cards and mailing them for guests).

Quote of the Show:

 ”I've always thought of hospitality as the craft of the welcome.” - Ben Uyeda

“ We fully intend to do all that. Just creating little moments of surprise for people out in the desert.” - Adam Wininger


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3353 What is the power of providing unique experiences?


Today, Dan chats with the Co-Founders of Reset Hotels, Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger, about their unique hotel venture designed for the next generation of conscious travelers. Ben and Adam share insights from their journey in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of midweek group bookings for corporate and wellness retreats, and creating meaningful, immersive experiences in the vast, open spaces of Joshua Tree. The conversation explores the concept of 'reset' in hospitality, the value of modular construction in remote areas, and future visions including art installations, unique retreats, and potentially an interplanetary hotel. Join the conversation as they discuss how thoughtful design and unique experiences can transform simple stays into unforgettable journeys.


Takeaways:

  • Excellence in hospitality (and any field) comes from attention to detail and continuous improvement—strive to perfect the small things, not just the big vision.
  • Make sure you’re intentional about the guest experience. Always consider how you want people to feel during and after their experience with you, whether in hospitality, business, or daily life.
  • Prioritize midweek group and retreat bookings. They are a key driver of business success.
  • Be willing to evolve your ideas and operations as you learn from real-world experience. The best concepts often emerge from adapting to changing circumstances.
  • Move beyond generic spaces—offer unique, authentic moments (like outdoor activities, art installations, or surprise elements) that guests will remember and share.
  • Design experiences that encourage genuine interaction, such as group hikes, yoga at sunset, or shared reading materials.
  • Make it easy to deliver “magical” experiences by building thoughtful, repeatable systems (e.g., providing thank you cards and mailing them for guests).

Quote of the Show:

 ”I've always thought of hospitality as the craft of the welcome.” - Ben Uyeda

“ We fully intend to do all that. Just creating little moments of surprise for people out in the desert.” - Adam Wininger


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt It’s About Who Knows You - Eileen Madigan - Defining Hospitality - Episode #211 211 211 It’s About Who Knows You - Eileen Madigan - Defining Hospitality - Episode #211 full dc0c2fb0-e625-4904-8200-7d40a699c281 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6512be69 It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Today, Eileen Madigan, Senior Vice President of Global Interior Design at Las Vegas Sands Corp joins Defining Hospitality to discuss the power of networking and mentoring within the hospitality industry. With over 35 years of experience in luxury interior design, Eileen shares her journey from working at Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotels to leading significant projects in Asia for Sands. She discusses the importance of having a design philosophy, her experience with a life coach, and the intricacies of scaling luxury design for massive integrated resorts. Eileen highlights the importance of creating everlasting memories through thoughtful design, and offers valuable insights on career progression and the significance of internal and external partnerships in achieving design excellence.


Takeaways: 

  • Take time in your career, ideally in your twenties, to understand and define what makes you unique. This clarity will help guide your professional journey and open up opportunities.
  • Don’t wait until later in your career to work with a coach or mentor. Regularly seek outside perspectives to help you uncover your strengths, clarify your goals, and stay aligned with your purpose.
  • It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Build genuine relationships and make your work and value visible to others in your industry.
  • When leading projects or teams, assess and invest in the right people, establish clear processes, deliver quality products, and ensure profitability. All four fundamentals must be aligned for success.
  • Whether designing spaces or leading teams, always consider the human experience. Details matter—focus on how people feel and interact with your work.
  • Trust your instincts, appreciate the people and opportunities around you, and remember to enjoy the ride—even when it’s challenging.

Quote of the Show:

“At the end of the day, we’re creating everlasting memories.” - Eileen Madigan


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Today, Eileen Madigan, Senior Vice President of Global Interior Design at Las Vegas Sands Corp joins Defining Hospitality to discuss the power of networking and mentoring within the hospitality industry. With over 35 years of experience in luxury interior design, Eileen shares her journey from working at Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotels to leading significant projects in Asia for Sands. She discusses the importance of having a design philosophy, her experience with a life coach, and the intricacies of scaling luxury design for massive integrated resorts. Eileen highlights the importance of creating everlasting memories through thoughtful design, and offers valuable insights on career progression and the significance of internal and external partnerships in achieving design excellence.


Takeaways: 

  • Take time in your career, ideally in your twenties, to understand and define what makes you unique. This clarity will help guide your professional journey and open up opportunities.
  • Don’t wait until later in your career to work with a coach or mentor. Regularly seek outside perspectives to help you uncover your strengths, clarify your goals, and stay aligned with your purpose.
  • It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Build genuine relationships and make your work and value visible to others in your industry.
  • When leading projects or teams, assess and invest in the right people, establish clear processes, deliver quality products, and ensure profitability. All four fundamentals must be aligned for success.
  • Whether designing spaces or leading teams, always consider the human experience. Details matter—focus on how people feel and interact with your work.
  • Trust your instincts, appreciate the people and opportunities around you, and remember to enjoy the ride—even when it’s challenging.

Quote of the Show:

“At the end of the day, we’re creating everlasting memories.” - Eileen Madigan


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3884 It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Today, Eileen Madigan, Senior Vice President of Global Interior Design at Las Vegas Sands Corp joins Defining Hospitality to discuss the power of networking and mentoring within the hospitality industry. With over 35 years of experience in luxury interior design, Eileen shares her journey from working at Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotels to leading significant projects in Asia for Sands. She discusses the importance of having a design philosophy, her experience with a life coach, and the intricacies of scaling luxury design for massive integrated resorts. Eileen highlights the importance of creating everlasting memories through thoughtful design, and offers valuable insights on career progression and the significance of internal and external partnerships in achieving design excellence.


Takeaways: 

  • Take time in your career, ideally in your twenties, to understand and define what makes you unique. This clarity will help guide your professional journey and open up opportunities.
  • Don’t wait until later in your career to work with a coach or mentor. Regularly seek outside perspectives to help you uncover your strengths, clarify your goals, and stay aligned with your purpose.
  • It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Build genuine relationships and make your work and value visible to others in your industry.
  • When leading projects or teams, assess and invest in the right people, establish clear processes, deliver quality products, and ensure profitability. All four fundamentals must be aligned for success.
  • Whether designing spaces or leading teams, always consider the human experience. Details matter—focus on how people feel and interact with your work.
  • Trust your instincts, appreciate the people and opportunities around you, and remember to enjoy the ride—even when it’s challenging.

Quote of the Show:

“At the end of the day, we’re creating everlasting memories.” - Eileen Madigan


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Preserving History, Designing the Future - Aimee Sanborn - Defining Hospitality - Episode #210 210 210 Preserving History, Designing the Future - Aimee Sanborn - Defining Hospitality - Episode #210 full 2cffdee9-57c4-4d0b-8620-87c667fdb2ce https://share.transistor.fm/s/fac82704 How is adaptive reuse shaping the hospitality industry?


Aimee Sanborn, Senior Vice President of Architecture at Premier joins Dan to dive into adaptive reuse. Aimee shares her passion for preserving history and discusses the challenges and rewards of transforming historic buildings into vibrant, functional spaces. From the streets of downtown Dallas to the lush landscapes of Key West, discover the intricate process and the meticulous attention to detail involved in preserving architectural heritage while breathing new life into old structures. This episode is a must-watch for architects, designers, and anyone interested in the intersection of history and modern hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Adaptive reuse projects are known for their "gremlins" and challenges, but these major challenges can lead to an innovative, celebrated solution
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. In hospitality design, it's about making people feel connected to a place, its story, and a bespoke experience. creating designated lobbies and preventing cross-circulation between different uses, such as luxury condos and the public domain, to enhance the resident's experience.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Despite the hospitality design world experiencing a recession with fewer projects since COVID-19, remaining true to yourself 
  • When working on historic buildings, focus on creating a narrative that connects people to the place and its past. This branding and storytelling can be carried throughout the project, from the hotel component to other uses within a vertically integrated mixed-use development.
  • A key to successful adaptive reuse is "purposeful preservation," which involves celebrating a building's history and unique characteristics while thoughtfully adapting it for new uses. This includes bringing new life to spaces in a way that feels fresh and welcoming.
  • Leverage historic tax credits, as they can be a significant financial driver for adaptive reuse projects.


Quote of the Show:

“When it comes to historic buildings, it’s about bringing new life to the spaces in a way that reflects their past, and makes them feel fresh and welcoming.” - Aimee Sanborn


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How is adaptive reuse shaping the hospitality industry?


Aimee Sanborn, Senior Vice President of Architecture at Premier joins Dan to dive into adaptive reuse. Aimee shares her passion for preserving history and discusses the challenges and rewards of transforming historic buildings into vibrant, functional spaces. From the streets of downtown Dallas to the lush landscapes of Key West, discover the intricate process and the meticulous attention to detail involved in preserving architectural heritage while breathing new life into old structures. This episode is a must-watch for architects, designers, and anyone interested in the intersection of history and modern hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Adaptive reuse projects are known for their "gremlins" and challenges, but these major challenges can lead to an innovative, celebrated solution
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. In hospitality design, it's about making people feel connected to a place, its story, and a bespoke experience. creating designated lobbies and preventing cross-circulation between different uses, such as luxury condos and the public domain, to enhance the resident's experience.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Despite the hospitality design world experiencing a recession with fewer projects since COVID-19, remaining true to yourself 
  • When working on historic buildings, focus on creating a narrative that connects people to the place and its past. This branding and storytelling can be carried throughout the project, from the hotel component to other uses within a vertically integrated mixed-use development.
  • A key to successful adaptive reuse is "purposeful preservation," which involves celebrating a building's history and unique characteristics while thoughtfully adapting it for new uses. This includes bringing new life to spaces in a way that feels fresh and welcoming.
  • Leverage historic tax credits, as they can be a significant financial driver for adaptive reuse projects.


Quote of the Show:

“When it comes to historic buildings, it’s about bringing new life to the spaces in a way that reflects their past, and makes them feel fresh and welcoming.” - Aimee Sanborn


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 01 Aug 2025 15:06:25 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3092 How is adaptive reuse shaping the hospitality industry?


Aimee Sanborn, Senior Vice President of Architecture at Premier joins Dan to dive into adaptive reuse. Aimee shares her passion for preserving history and discusses the challenges and rewards of transforming historic buildings into vibrant, functional spaces. From the streets of downtown Dallas to the lush landscapes of Key West, discover the intricate process and the meticulous attention to detail involved in preserving architectural heritage while breathing new life into old structures. This episode is a must-watch for architects, designers, and anyone interested in the intersection of history and modern hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Adaptive reuse projects are known for their "gremlins" and challenges, but these major challenges can lead to an innovative, celebrated solution
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. In hospitality design, it's about making people feel connected to a place, its story, and a bespoke experience. creating designated lobbies and preventing cross-circulation between different uses, such as luxury condos and the public domain, to enhance the resident's experience.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Despite the hospitality design world experiencing a recession with fewer projects since COVID-19, remaining true to yourself 
  • When working on historic buildings, focus on creating a narrative that connects people to the place and its past. This branding and storytelling can be carried throughout the project, from the hotel component to other uses within a vertically integrated mixed-use development.
  • A key to successful adaptive reuse is "purposeful preservation," which involves celebrating a building's history and unique characteristics while thoughtfully adapting it for new uses. This includes bringing new life to spaces in a way that feels fresh and welcoming.
  • Leverage historic tax credits, as they can be a significant financial driver for adaptive reuse projects.


Quote of the Show:

“When it comes to historic buildings, it’s about bringing new life to the spaces in a way that reflects their past, and makes them feel fresh and welcoming.” - Aimee Sanborn


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt The Art of Feeling Known - Bruno Viterbo - Defining Hospitality - Episode #209 209 209 The Art of Feeling Known - Bruno Viterbo - Defining Hospitality - Episode #209 full 9bf069fd-6f9b-4819-9925-b12eefc2aed7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/68221114 Ever wondered how a space can make you feel genuinely cared for? Bruno Viterbo, Vice President of Design at Irvine Company, shares his profound insights into 'the sense of being known' and how it transforms hospitality design at every scale. Bruno shares his extensive experience in the design and real estate industries, including insights from his previous roles at Champalimaud Design and Las Vegas Sands Corp. He reflects on the unique lessons learned from industry legends and how these insights have shaped his approach to creating extraordinary spaces. The episode highlights the significance of partnerships, the role of conviction in leadership, and the challenges and creativity involved in working within regulatory constraints.


Takeaways: 

  • Taking a moment to genuinely connect with people around you can provide opportunities for deeper understanding and relationships. Make an effort to be attentive and engaged in your interactions.
  • Maintaining a sense of curiosity about other cultures, experiences, and professions can greatly enhance your perspective and creativity. Don’t hesitate to dig deeper and ask questions about the hows and whys of different practices.
  • Cultivating long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, vendors, and mentors can significantly enhance your professional journey. Trust and mutual respect are foundational to successful collaborations.
  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Regulatory and environmental constraints can inspire new levels of creativity and problem-solving.
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. This mindset can guide decisions in design, customer service, and overall environment creation, ensuring a more meaningful impact.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Resilience and adaptability can help navigate and thrive in difficult periods.
  • Learning from experienced professionals can significantly shape your career. Be open to listening and absorbing lessons from mentors and industry veterans.

Quote of the Show:

“I started by thinking that we needed to do a lot, and over time I realized I just need to listen a lot more. Then the doing sort of comes with it.” - Bruno Viterbo


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Ever wondered how a space can make you feel genuinely cared for? Bruno Viterbo, Vice President of Design at Irvine Company, shares his profound insights into 'the sense of being known' and how it transforms hospitality design at every scale. Bruno shares his extensive experience in the design and real estate industries, including insights from his previous roles at Champalimaud Design and Las Vegas Sands Corp. He reflects on the unique lessons learned from industry legends and how these insights have shaped his approach to creating extraordinary spaces. The episode highlights the significance of partnerships, the role of conviction in leadership, and the challenges and creativity involved in working within regulatory constraints.


Takeaways: 

  • Taking a moment to genuinely connect with people around you can provide opportunities for deeper understanding and relationships. Make an effort to be attentive and engaged in your interactions.
  • Maintaining a sense of curiosity about other cultures, experiences, and professions can greatly enhance your perspective and creativity. Don’t hesitate to dig deeper and ask questions about the hows and whys of different practices.
  • Cultivating long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, vendors, and mentors can significantly enhance your professional journey. Trust and mutual respect are foundational to successful collaborations.
  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Regulatory and environmental constraints can inspire new levels of creativity and problem-solving.
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. This mindset can guide decisions in design, customer service, and overall environment creation, ensuring a more meaningful impact.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Resilience and adaptability can help navigate and thrive in difficult periods.
  • Learning from experienced professionals can significantly shape your career. Be open to listening and absorbing lessons from mentors and industry veterans.

Quote of the Show:

“I started by thinking that we needed to do a lot, and over time I realized I just need to listen a lot more. Then the doing sort of comes with it.” - Bruno Viterbo


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4410 Ever wondered how a space can make you feel genuinely cared for? Bruno Viterbo, Vice President of Design at Irvine Company, shares his profound insights into 'the sense of being known' and how it transforms hospitality design at every scale. Bruno shares his extensive experience in the design and real estate industries, including insights from his previous roles at Champalimaud Design and Las Vegas Sands Corp. He reflects on the unique lessons learned from industry legends and how these insights have shaped his approach to creating extraordinary spaces. The episode highlights the significance of partnerships, the role of conviction in leadership, and the challenges and creativity involved in working within regulatory constraints.


Takeaways: 

  • Taking a moment to genuinely connect with people around you can provide opportunities for deeper understanding and relationships. Make an effort to be attentive and engaged in your interactions.
  • Maintaining a sense of curiosity about other cultures, experiences, and professions can greatly enhance your perspective and creativity. Don’t hesitate to dig deeper and ask questions about the hows and whys of different practices.
  • Cultivating long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, vendors, and mentors can significantly enhance your professional journey. Trust and mutual respect are foundational to successful collaborations.
  • Embrace challenges and view constraints as opportunities to innovate. Regulatory and environmental constraints can inspire new levels of creativity and problem-solving.
  • Always consider the end-user's experience first. This mindset can guide decisions in design, customer service, and overall environment creation, ensuring a more meaningful impact.
  • During economic downturns or challenging times, focus on maintaining quality, supporting your team, and staying optimistic. Resilience and adaptability can help navigate and thrive in difficult periods.
  • Learning from experienced professionals can significantly shape your career. Be open to listening and absorbing lessons from mentors and industry veterans.

Quote of the Show:

“I started by thinking that we needed to do a lot, and over time I realized I just need to listen a lot more. Then the doing sort of comes with it.” - Bruno Viterbo


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt A Seat at Aggie's Table - Aggie Zamir - Defining Hospitality - Episode #208 208 208 A Seat at Aggie's Table - Aggie Zamir - Defining Hospitality - Episode #208 full 9b6c9ee0-48e6-4826-b405-8d9be474300d https://share.transistor.fm/s/54c15ae4 “We love the one-off projects, but our real passion and what we're really looking for are ownership groups where we can do a project with them, forge a relationship, build that trust, and then we grow alongside them.” Joining Dan is Aggie Zamir, Vice President of National Hospitality and Gaming at Cumming Group. They discuss Aggie's insights into the luxury hospitality industry, the importance of building trust and relationships, and how Cumming Group works as a project management office (PMO) and owner's representative. The conversation also touches on mentoring young professionals, the impact of industry organizations like AHLA, and the personal fulfillment that comes from fostering community within the hospitality sector. 


Takeaways: 

  • Establish trusted relationships within your teams and with clients. Trust and strong relationships can help navigate through project stresses and challenges more effectively.
  • Focus on finding clients who appreciate and value your service offerings and are looking for a long-term partnership. This can help with sustained, meaningful growth rather than just seeking one-off projects.
  • Whether in a project setting or through professional dinner gatherings, creating a sense of community among colleagues, clients, and industry professionals can lead to more inspiring and productive collaborations.
  • Navigate client preferences by partnering them with experienced team members who can help guide projects to success while respecting client visions and requests.
  • Utilize available technology like project dashboards to keep track of multiple project metrics and ensure streamlined communication across teams and with clients.
  • Get involved in mentoring young professionals or students in related fields. It can be both personally rewarding and beneficial for the industry.

Quote of the Show:

“Everybody can participate in their community or participate in the industry or mentoring in their own personal way, right? There's no prescription for it.” - Aggie Zamir


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> “We love the one-off projects, but our real passion and what we're really looking for are ownership groups where we can do a project with them, forge a relationship, build that trust, and then we grow alongside them.” Joining Dan is Aggie Zamir, Vice President of National Hospitality and Gaming at Cumming Group. They discuss Aggie's insights into the luxury hospitality industry, the importance of building trust and relationships, and how Cumming Group works as a project management office (PMO) and owner's representative. The conversation also touches on mentoring young professionals, the impact of industry organizations like AHLA, and the personal fulfillment that comes from fostering community within the hospitality sector. 


Takeaways: 

  • Establish trusted relationships within your teams and with clients. Trust and strong relationships can help navigate through project stresses and challenges more effectively.
  • Focus on finding clients who appreciate and value your service offerings and are looking for a long-term partnership. This can help with sustained, meaningful growth rather than just seeking one-off projects.
  • Whether in a project setting or through professional dinner gatherings, creating a sense of community among colleagues, clients, and industry professionals can lead to more inspiring and productive collaborations.
  • Navigate client preferences by partnering them with experienced team members who can help guide projects to success while respecting client visions and requests.
  • Utilize available technology like project dashboards to keep track of multiple project metrics and ensure streamlined communication across teams and with clients.
  • Get involved in mentoring young professionals or students in related fields. It can be both personally rewarding and beneficial for the industry.

Quote of the Show:

“Everybody can participate in their community or participate in the industry or mentoring in their own personal way, right? There's no prescription for it.” - Aggie Zamir


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3477 “We love the one-off projects, but our real passion and what we're really looking for are ownership groups where we can do a project with them, forge a relationship, build that trust, and then we grow alongside them.” Joining Dan is Aggie Zamir, Vice President of National Hospitality and Gaming at Cumming Group. They discuss Aggie's insights into the luxury hospitality industry, the importance of building trust and relationships, and how Cumming Group works as a project management office (PMO) and owner's representative. The conversation also touches on mentoring young professionals, the impact of industry organizations like AHLA, and the personal fulfillment that comes from fostering community within the hospitality sector. 


Takeaways: 

  • Establish trusted relationships within your teams and with clients. Trust and strong relationships can help navigate through project stresses and challenges more effectively.
  • Focus on finding clients who appreciate and value your service offerings and are looking for a long-term partnership. This can help with sustained, meaningful growth rather than just seeking one-off projects.
  • Whether in a project setting or through professional dinner gatherings, creating a sense of community among colleagues, clients, and industry professionals can lead to more inspiring and productive collaborations.
  • Navigate client preferences by partnering them with experienced team members who can help guide projects to success while respecting client visions and requests.
  • Utilize available technology like project dashboards to keep track of multiple project metrics and ensure streamlined communication across teams and with clients.
  • Get involved in mentoring young professionals or students in related fields. It can be both personally rewarding and beneficial for the industry.

Quote of the Show:

“Everybody can participate in their community or participate in the industry or mentoring in their own personal way, right? There's no prescription for it.” - Aggie Zamir


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Crafting Generational Memories - Derek De Salvia - Defining Hospitality - Episode #207 207 207 Crafting Generational Memories - Derek De Salvia - Defining Hospitality - Episode #207 full 9fa1e989-5bfe-4976-adfe-b1ef07a5ae90 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2de4106a “ It's a core tenant of who we are, and it's called put people first. We take care of our people.” Derek De Salvia, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations, joins Dan today to dive into the world of vacation ownership. The discussion covers the personal and professional aspects of hospitality, the evolution and benefits of the vacation ownership model, and how Hilton Grand Vacations differentiates itself in the industry, especially as one of Newsweek’s Top Most Loved Workplaces. Derek shares insights into customer education, the impact of multi-generational ownership, the importance of team member engagement, and the adaptability of vacation ownership through economic cycles and evolving customer needs. The episode concludes with advice for potential customers and an invitation to experience Hilton Grand Vacations firsthand.


Takeaways: 

  • Train your team to understand the difference between basic service and true hospitality. Aim for over-delivery on guest expectations.
  • Highlight the importance of creating lasting memories for families, which can be a significant selling point for returning customers and multi-generational travel.
  • Ensure guests are well-informed about how to maximize their memberships or stays through tutorials, seminars, and resources available on member pages.
  • Foster a culture of hospitality among team members. When employees feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to pass on that sentiment to guests.
  • Consider the long-term benefits and memories that owning a timeshare can create for your family across generations, rather than just focusing on the upfront costs and annual fees.
  • Continuously gather and act on feedback from guest surveys and team member inputs to refine services and address any issues promptly.

Quote of the Show:

“We couldn't talk about hospitality and what that means to people if we didn't share that love and warmth of hospitality to our team members.” - Derek De Salvia


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> “ It's a core tenant of who we are, and it's called put people first. We take care of our people.” Derek De Salvia, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations, joins Dan today to dive into the world of vacation ownership. The discussion covers the personal and professional aspects of hospitality, the evolution and benefits of the vacation ownership model, and how Hilton Grand Vacations differentiates itself in the industry, especially as one of Newsweek’s Top Most Loved Workplaces. Derek shares insights into customer education, the impact of multi-generational ownership, the importance of team member engagement, and the adaptability of vacation ownership through economic cycles and evolving customer needs. The episode concludes with advice for potential customers and an invitation to experience Hilton Grand Vacations firsthand.


Takeaways: 

  • Train your team to understand the difference between basic service and true hospitality. Aim for over-delivery on guest expectations.
  • Highlight the importance of creating lasting memories for families, which can be a significant selling point for returning customers and multi-generational travel.
  • Ensure guests are well-informed about how to maximize their memberships or stays through tutorials, seminars, and resources available on member pages.
  • Foster a culture of hospitality among team members. When employees feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to pass on that sentiment to guests.
  • Consider the long-term benefits and memories that owning a timeshare can create for your family across generations, rather than just focusing on the upfront costs and annual fees.
  • Continuously gather and act on feedback from guest surveys and team member inputs to refine services and address any issues promptly.

Quote of the Show:

“We couldn't talk about hospitality and what that means to people if we didn't share that love and warmth of hospitality to our team members.” - Derek De Salvia


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2881 “ It's a core tenant of who we are, and it's called put people first. We take care of our people.” Derek De Salvia, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations, joins Dan today to dive into the world of vacation ownership. The discussion covers the personal and professional aspects of hospitality, the evolution and benefits of the vacation ownership model, and how Hilton Grand Vacations differentiates itself in the industry, especially as one of Newsweek’s Top Most Loved Workplaces. Derek shares insights into customer education, the impact of multi-generational ownership, the importance of team member engagement, and the adaptability of vacation ownership through economic cycles and evolving customer needs. The episode concludes with advice for potential customers and an invitation to experience Hilton Grand Vacations firsthand.


Takeaways: 

  • Train your team to understand the difference between basic service and true hospitality. Aim for over-delivery on guest expectations.
  • Highlight the importance of creating lasting memories for families, which can be a significant selling point for returning customers and multi-generational travel.
  • Ensure guests are well-informed about how to maximize their memberships or stays through tutorials, seminars, and resources available on member pages.
  • Foster a culture of hospitality among team members. When employees feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to pass on that sentiment to guests.
  • Consider the long-term benefits and memories that owning a timeshare can create for your family across generations, rather than just focusing on the upfront costs and annual fees.
  • Continuously gather and act on feedback from guest surveys and team member inputs to refine services and address any issues promptly.

Quote of the Show:

“We couldn't talk about hospitality and what that means to people if we didn't share that love and warmth of hospitality to our team members.” - Derek De Salvia


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Sparking Change: Driving Hilton's Growth - Alissa Klees - Defining Hospitality - Episode #206 206 206 Sparking Change: Driving Hilton's Growth - Alissa Klees - Defining Hospitality - Episode #206 full 61038a83-da06-4e08-b537-30fd806a165e https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c1683ed “We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” Joining Dan this week is Alissa Klees, the Brand Leader of Spark by Hilton, the trailblazing brand that earned Hilton recognition as one of Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative Companies. Alissa delves into what hospitality means to her, encompassing both personal and professional interactions. She shares the incredible journey of Spark, from its secretive "Skunkworks-type room" origins to its rapid global expansion. Highlights include the brand's focus on simplicity, affordability, and owner satisfaction, making conversions quick and efficient. Alissa emphasizes the positive impact on hotel staff pride and guest experiences, backed by Hilton's innovative culture and robust supply chain strategies. The episode also explores future growth opportunities and the lasting impact Spark aims to achieve within the industry.


Takeaways:

  • Ensure that the guest experience is straightforward and predictable to meet their expectations consistently. 
  • Consider establishing strong partnerships with supply chain managers. Look into negotiating bulk purchasing agreements to keep your renovation or building projects on schedule and within budget.
  • Implement systems that align with the philosophy of 'people serving people' to build a strong, service-oriented culture.
  • Collect and analyze guest feedback to identify design or service aspects that need improvement. Be flexible and ready to adapt based on the feedback to continually enhance the guest experience.
  • Provide value-driven experiences to make budget-conscious guests consider and prefer your brand.

Quote of the Show:

“We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” - Alissa Klees


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> “We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” Joining Dan this week is Alissa Klees, the Brand Leader of Spark by Hilton, the trailblazing brand that earned Hilton recognition as one of Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative Companies. Alissa delves into what hospitality means to her, encompassing both personal and professional interactions. She shares the incredible journey of Spark, from its secretive "Skunkworks-type room" origins to its rapid global expansion. Highlights include the brand's focus on simplicity, affordability, and owner satisfaction, making conversions quick and efficient. Alissa emphasizes the positive impact on hotel staff pride and guest experiences, backed by Hilton's innovative culture and robust supply chain strategies. The episode also explores future growth opportunities and the lasting impact Spark aims to achieve within the industry.


Takeaways:

  • Ensure that the guest experience is straightforward and predictable to meet their expectations consistently. 
  • Consider establishing strong partnerships with supply chain managers. Look into negotiating bulk purchasing agreements to keep your renovation or building projects on schedule and within budget.
  • Implement systems that align with the philosophy of 'people serving people' to build a strong, service-oriented culture.
  • Collect and analyze guest feedback to identify design or service aspects that need improvement. Be flexible and ready to adapt based on the feedback to continually enhance the guest experience.
  • Provide value-driven experiences to make budget-conscious guests consider and prefer your brand.

Quote of the Show:

“We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” - Alissa Klees


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3487 “We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” Joining Dan this week is Alissa Klees, the Brand Leader of Spark by Hilton, the trailblazing brand that earned Hilton recognition as one of Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative Companies. Alissa delves into what hospitality means to her, encompassing both personal and professional interactions. She shares the incredible journey of Spark, from its secretive "Skunkworks-type room" origins to its rapid global expansion. Highlights include the brand's focus on simplicity, affordability, and owner satisfaction, making conversions quick and efficient. Alissa emphasizes the positive impact on hotel staff pride and guest experiences, backed by Hilton's innovative culture and robust supply chain strategies. The episode also explores future growth opportunities and the lasting impact Spark aims to achieve within the industry.


Takeaways:

  • Ensure that the guest experience is straightforward and predictable to meet their expectations consistently. 
  • Consider establishing strong partnerships with supply chain managers. Look into negotiating bulk purchasing agreements to keep your renovation or building projects on schedule and within budget.
  • Implement systems that align with the philosophy of 'people serving people' to build a strong, service-oriented culture.
  • Collect and analyze guest feedback to identify design or service aspects that need improvement. Be flexible and ready to adapt based on the feedback to continually enhance the guest experience.
  • Provide value-driven experiences to make budget-conscious guests consider and prefer your brand.

Quote of the Show:

“We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” - Alissa Klees


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Sailing into Success - Chris Lenz - Defining Hospitality - Episode #205 205 205 Sailing into Success - Chris Lenz - Defining Hospitality - Episode #205 full 3d018639-cc0e-4dc3-90aa-81c38d84cfb6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a5c7e322 It takes determination to dive into hospitality and come out with a boutique hotel that is successful, and that is what Chris Lenz, Founder and CEO of La Compania Hotels and Resorts. Chris shares his journey from opening 37 restaurants to creating extraordinary hotels in Panama. They explore his passion for hospitality, his uncompromising vision, and the meticulous planning that goes into building unique hospitality experiences. Learn about Chris's journey from restaurateur to hotelier, his innovative trifecta perfecta concept, and his ambitious plans for redefining luxury travel in Panama.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to create unique and memorable experiences that differentiate your property or service from others. Focus on curating personalized touches and special features in your establishment that guests will remember and talk about.
  • Maintain an uncompromising vision and execute it with passion. The team must understand and align with this vision to consistently deliver the intended guest experience.
  • Consider partnerships with larger brands for access to their distribution networks, loyalty programs, and market reach. Ensure the partnership aligns with your property’s unique and boutique characteristics to maintain brand integrity.
  • Enhance the guest journey by minimizing travel hassles. For example, offering private transportation or concierge services that streamline and personalize the guest’s travel experience.
  • Even with growth, maintain high standards for service, safety, and uniqueness. This is critical for retaining your brand's value and ensuring guest satisfaction.


Quote of the Show:

“I'm gonna build the best historic landmark hotel in Central America. I'm gonna change the tourism of this country.” - Chris Lenz


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> It takes determination to dive into hospitality and come out with a boutique hotel that is successful, and that is what Chris Lenz, Founder and CEO of La Compania Hotels and Resorts. Chris shares his journey from opening 37 restaurants to creating extraordinary hotels in Panama. They explore his passion for hospitality, his uncompromising vision, and the meticulous planning that goes into building unique hospitality experiences. Learn about Chris's journey from restaurateur to hotelier, his innovative trifecta perfecta concept, and his ambitious plans for redefining luxury travel in Panama.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to create unique and memorable experiences that differentiate your property or service from others. Focus on curating personalized touches and special features in your establishment that guests will remember and talk about.
  • Maintain an uncompromising vision and execute it with passion. The team must understand and align with this vision to consistently deliver the intended guest experience.
  • Consider partnerships with larger brands for access to their distribution networks, loyalty programs, and market reach. Ensure the partnership aligns with your property’s unique and boutique characteristics to maintain brand integrity.
  • Enhance the guest journey by minimizing travel hassles. For example, offering private transportation or concierge services that streamline and personalize the guest’s travel experience.
  • Even with growth, maintain high standards for service, safety, and uniqueness. This is critical for retaining your brand's value and ensuring guest satisfaction.


Quote of the Show:

“I'm gonna build the best historic landmark hotel in Central America. I'm gonna change the tourism of this country.” - Chris Lenz


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4179 It takes determination to dive into hospitality and come out with a boutique hotel that is successful, and that is what Chris Lenz, Founder and CEO of La Compania Hotels and Resorts. Chris shares his journey from opening 37 restaurants to creating extraordinary hotels in Panama. They explore his passion for hospitality, his uncompromising vision, and the meticulous planning that goes into building unique hospitality experiences. Learn about Chris's journey from restaurateur to hotelier, his innovative trifecta perfecta concept, and his ambitious plans for redefining luxury travel in Panama.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to create unique and memorable experiences that differentiate your property or service from others. Focus on curating personalized touches and special features in your establishment that guests will remember and talk about.
  • Maintain an uncompromising vision and execute it with passion. The team must understand and align with this vision to consistently deliver the intended guest experience.
  • Consider partnerships with larger brands for access to their distribution networks, loyalty programs, and market reach. Ensure the partnership aligns with your property’s unique and boutique characteristics to maintain brand integrity.
  • Enhance the guest journey by minimizing travel hassles. For example, offering private transportation or concierge services that streamline and personalize the guest’s travel experience.
  • Even with growth, maintain high standards for service, safety, and uniqueness. This is critical for retaining your brand's value and ensuring guest satisfaction.


Quote of the Show:

“I'm gonna build the best historic landmark hotel in Central America. I'm gonna change the tourism of this country.” - Chris Lenz


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Beyond the Bell Curve: Luxury and Hospitality - Eric Brey - Defining Hospitality - Episode #204 204 204 Beyond the Bell Curve: Luxury and Hospitality - Eric Brey - Defining Hospitality - Episode #204 full 291ad803-c4f4-4034-b79f-5a52167d7138 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d3c17d46 How can embracing the Japanese concept of omotenashi create better connections? Dr. Eric Brey, a Professor of Hospitality in the School of Management at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, joins Dan on the show today. Eric brings a wealth of experience from his time in the US Army to earning a PhD in hospitality administration and management. They discuss the significance of hospitality in various contexts, the launch of the nation's first Luxury Management Program at UW Stout, and how luxury isn't limited to opulence but extends to heartfelt interactions and detailed customer service. From the importance of thoughtful gift giving to cultural insights about hospitality, Eric shares the essence of genuine, anticipatory hospitality that enhances guest experiences across the spectrum, whether at a local tavern or a five-star property.


Takeaways:

  • Strive to deliver genuine hospitality, which involves anticipating guests' needs and providing meticulous attention to detail.
  • Understand the varying expectations in different hospitality settings, from budget accommodations to luxury establishments.
  • Recognize the value of understanding and integrating cultural nuances in hospitality. Consider participating in study-abroad programs or international internships to broaden your perspective.
  • Engage with industry professionals and participate in hospitality summits and conferences. Extend your network by connecting with professors, industry leaders, and peers on platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Always seek to learn from various sources, including other industries and educational programs, to continuously improve your hospitality skills.
  • Cultivate meaningful relationships with guests, colleagues, and mentors. Emphasize the importance of personal interactions in an increasingly digital world.

Quote of the Show:

“ Omotenashi is at the heart of every interaction.” - Eric Brey


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How can embracing the Japanese concept of omotenashi create better connections? Dr. Eric Brey, a Professor of Hospitality in the School of Management at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, joins Dan on the show today. Eric brings a wealth of experience from his time in the US Army to earning a PhD in hospitality administration and management. They discuss the significance of hospitality in various contexts, the launch of the nation's first Luxury Management Program at UW Stout, and how luxury isn't limited to opulence but extends to heartfelt interactions and detailed customer service. From the importance of thoughtful gift giving to cultural insights about hospitality, Eric shares the essence of genuine, anticipatory hospitality that enhances guest experiences across the spectrum, whether at a local tavern or a five-star property.


Takeaways:

  • Strive to deliver genuine hospitality, which involves anticipating guests' needs and providing meticulous attention to detail.
  • Understand the varying expectations in different hospitality settings, from budget accommodations to luxury establishments.
  • Recognize the value of understanding and integrating cultural nuances in hospitality. Consider participating in study-abroad programs or international internships to broaden your perspective.
  • Engage with industry professionals and participate in hospitality summits and conferences. Extend your network by connecting with professors, industry leaders, and peers on platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Always seek to learn from various sources, including other industries and educational programs, to continuously improve your hospitality skills.
  • Cultivate meaningful relationships with guests, colleagues, and mentors. Emphasize the importance of personal interactions in an increasingly digital world.

Quote of the Show:

“ Omotenashi is at the heart of every interaction.” - Eric Brey


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3386 How can embracing the Japanese concept of omotenashi create better connections? Dr. Eric Brey, a Professor of Hospitality in the School of Management at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, joins Dan on the show today. Eric brings a wealth of experience from his time in the US Army to earning a PhD in hospitality administration and management. They discuss the significance of hospitality in various contexts, the launch of the nation's first Luxury Management Program at UW Stout, and how luxury isn't limited to opulence but extends to heartfelt interactions and detailed customer service. From the importance of thoughtful gift giving to cultural insights about hospitality, Eric shares the essence of genuine, anticipatory hospitality that enhances guest experiences across the spectrum, whether at a local tavern or a five-star property.


Takeaways:

  • Strive to deliver genuine hospitality, which involves anticipating guests' needs and providing meticulous attention to detail.
  • Understand the varying expectations in different hospitality settings, from budget accommodations to luxury establishments.
  • Recognize the value of understanding and integrating cultural nuances in hospitality. Consider participating in study-abroad programs or international internships to broaden your perspective.
  • Engage with industry professionals and participate in hospitality summits and conferences. Extend your network by connecting with professors, industry leaders, and peers on platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Always seek to learn from various sources, including other industries and educational programs, to continuously improve your hospitality skills.
  • Cultivate meaningful relationships with guests, colleagues, and mentors. Emphasize the importance of personal interactions in an increasingly digital world.

Quote of the Show:

“ Omotenashi is at the heart of every interaction.” - Eric Brey


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Charting New Courses - Carmen Vlasceanu - Defining Hospitality - Episode #203 203 203 Charting New Courses - Carmen Vlasceanu - Defining Hospitality - Episode #203 full 399ff7b0-34c1-4a81-bdb0-4789b9e29294 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0764d882 How do you truly make people feel cared for? 

Dan welcomes Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the hotel, aviation, catering, and cruise industries. They discuss the essence of hospitality, Dr. Carmen's career journey from Romania to Carnival Cruises, and her current roles, including Founder and CEO of Global Hospitality and Maritime Leaders. They touch on Dr. Carmen's book “Dare to C.A.R.E”, her contributions to improving customer experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her charity work through Angel's Wings Charity. The episode highlights her insights on personal and professional growth in the hospitality industry and her vision for future success.


Takeaways:

  • Emulate the spirit of hospitality by ensuring clients and guests feel cared for and valued during their experiences, no matter the industry or context.
  • Looking beyond one's own country for hospitality practices can broaden horizons and provide valuable insights into delivering and receiving hospitality.
  • Encourage yourself and others to pursue career paths aligned with personal dreams and passions, and be open to changing directions if new opportunities or interests arise.
  • Attend events and workshops to connect with peers and leaders in the hospitality industry, gaining diverse perspectives and learning from their experiences.
  • Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being to better serve others. If you are fulfilled in your personal life, it will reflect positively in your professional interactions.
  • Explore educational platforms providing leadership and personal development courses to enhance your skills and career trajectory in hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“ I wanted to get to the point where I would anticipate their needs successfully and not just meet their expectations, but exceed them.” - Carmen Vlasceanu


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you truly make people feel cared for? 

Dan welcomes Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the hotel, aviation, catering, and cruise industries. They discuss the essence of hospitality, Dr. Carmen's career journey from Romania to Carnival Cruises, and her current roles, including Founder and CEO of Global Hospitality and Maritime Leaders. They touch on Dr. Carmen's book “Dare to C.A.R.E”, her contributions to improving customer experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her charity work through Angel's Wings Charity. The episode highlights her insights on personal and professional growth in the hospitality industry and her vision for future success.


Takeaways:

  • Emulate the spirit of hospitality by ensuring clients and guests feel cared for and valued during their experiences, no matter the industry or context.
  • Looking beyond one's own country for hospitality practices can broaden horizons and provide valuable insights into delivering and receiving hospitality.
  • Encourage yourself and others to pursue career paths aligned with personal dreams and passions, and be open to changing directions if new opportunities or interests arise.
  • Attend events and workshops to connect with peers and leaders in the hospitality industry, gaining diverse perspectives and learning from their experiences.
  • Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being to better serve others. If you are fulfilled in your personal life, it will reflect positively in your professional interactions.
  • Explore educational platforms providing leadership and personal development courses to enhance your skills and career trajectory in hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“ I wanted to get to the point where I would anticipate their needs successfully and not just meet their expectations, but exceed them.” - Carmen Vlasceanu


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2645 How do you truly make people feel cared for? 

Dan welcomes Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the hotel, aviation, catering, and cruise industries. They discuss the essence of hospitality, Dr. Carmen's career journey from Romania to Carnival Cruises, and her current roles, including Founder and CEO of Global Hospitality and Maritime Leaders. They touch on Dr. Carmen's book “Dare to C.A.R.E”, her contributions to improving customer experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her charity work through Angel's Wings Charity. The episode highlights her insights on personal and professional growth in the hospitality industry and her vision for future success.


Takeaways:

  • Emulate the spirit of hospitality by ensuring clients and guests feel cared for and valued during their experiences, no matter the industry or context.
  • Looking beyond one's own country for hospitality practices can broaden horizons and provide valuable insights into delivering and receiving hospitality.
  • Encourage yourself and others to pursue career paths aligned with personal dreams and passions, and be open to changing directions if new opportunities or interests arise.
  • Attend events and workshops to connect with peers and leaders in the hospitality industry, gaining diverse perspectives and learning from their experiences.
  • Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being to better serve others. If you are fulfilled in your personal life, it will reflect positively in your professional interactions.
  • Explore educational platforms providing leadership and personal development courses to enhance your skills and career trajectory in hospitality.

Quote of the Show:

“ I wanted to get to the point where I would anticipate their needs successfully and not just meet their expectations, but exceed them.” - Carmen Vlasceanu


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Creating Impact: Sustainability in Hospitality - Andrea Foster - Defining Hospitality - Episode #202 202 202 Creating Impact: Sustainability in Hospitality - Andrea Foster - Defining Hospitality - Episode #202 full 162b0f46-6ba2-4468-aada-2f1454bb1ad7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/80fc03b4 What is the balance between hospitality’s business efforts and sustainability efforts? That’s what Andrea Foster, EVP of Hospitality Development at MindClick, is here to talk about on the podcast. The conversation covers how sustainability initiatives can improve guest experiences and align with corporate values. Andrea discusses the importance of measuring sustainability, the impact of intentional design, and the benefits of MindClick's data-driven platform. With anecdotes from their own experiences and practical insights, Dan and Andrea illustrate how forward-thinking practices in the hospitality industry can create positive environmental and economic outcomes.


Takeaways:

  • Integrate sustainability into the core values and operations of your business. Audit and measure sustainability metrics to continually improve practices.
  • Create one-pagers and marketing materials that highlight sustainability initiatives and share them with corporate travel buyers and event planners. Train front-line employees to articulate the sustainability story to guests.
  • Explore opportunities for green financing and lower cost of capital. Use data to demonstrate the financial benefits of sustainability to shareholders and stakeholders.
  • Capture demand by aligning with the values of specific demographics (e.g., millennials, Gen Z, female travelers).
  • Foster a company culture that celebrates continuous improvement in sustainability efforts.
  • Incorporate sustainability into the initial planning stages of new projects to avoid disruptive changes later. Set clear benchmarks and goals for sustainability efforts and track progress over time.

Quote of the Show:

“ We can achieve growth and achieve success and profitability and return on investment while also making decisions that are considerate, careful, respectful, and responsible. There is a way to do both.” - Andrea Foster


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What is the balance between hospitality’s business efforts and sustainability efforts? That’s what Andrea Foster, EVP of Hospitality Development at MindClick, is here to talk about on the podcast. The conversation covers how sustainability initiatives can improve guest experiences and align with corporate values. Andrea discusses the importance of measuring sustainability, the impact of intentional design, and the benefits of MindClick's data-driven platform. With anecdotes from their own experiences and practical insights, Dan and Andrea illustrate how forward-thinking practices in the hospitality industry can create positive environmental and economic outcomes.


Takeaways:

  • Integrate sustainability into the core values and operations of your business. Audit and measure sustainability metrics to continually improve practices.
  • Create one-pagers and marketing materials that highlight sustainability initiatives and share them with corporate travel buyers and event planners. Train front-line employees to articulate the sustainability story to guests.
  • Explore opportunities for green financing and lower cost of capital. Use data to demonstrate the financial benefits of sustainability to shareholders and stakeholders.
  • Capture demand by aligning with the values of specific demographics (e.g., millennials, Gen Z, female travelers).
  • Foster a company culture that celebrates continuous improvement in sustainability efforts.
  • Incorporate sustainability into the initial planning stages of new projects to avoid disruptive changes later. Set clear benchmarks and goals for sustainability efforts and track progress over time.

Quote of the Show:

“ We can achieve growth and achieve success and profitability and return on investment while also making decisions that are considerate, careful, respectful, and responsible. There is a way to do both.” - Andrea Foster


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4211 What is the balance between hospitality’s business efforts and sustainability efforts? That’s what Andrea Foster, EVP of Hospitality Development at MindClick, is here to talk about on the podcast. The conversation covers how sustainability initiatives can improve guest experiences and align with corporate values. Andrea discusses the importance of measuring sustainability, the impact of intentional design, and the benefits of MindClick's data-driven platform. With anecdotes from their own experiences and practical insights, Dan and Andrea illustrate how forward-thinking practices in the hospitality industry can create positive environmental and economic outcomes.


Takeaways:

  • Integrate sustainability into the core values and operations of your business. Audit and measure sustainability metrics to continually improve practices.
  • Create one-pagers and marketing materials that highlight sustainability initiatives and share them with corporate travel buyers and event planners. Train front-line employees to articulate the sustainability story to guests.
  • Explore opportunities for green financing and lower cost of capital. Use data to demonstrate the financial benefits of sustainability to shareholders and stakeholders.
  • Capture demand by aligning with the values of specific demographics (e.g., millennials, Gen Z, female travelers).
  • Foster a company culture that celebrates continuous improvement in sustainability efforts.
  • Incorporate sustainability into the initial planning stages of new projects to avoid disruptive changes later. Set clear benchmarks and goals for sustainability efforts and track progress over time.

Quote of the Show:

“ We can achieve growth and achieve success and profitability and return on investment while also making decisions that are considerate, careful, respectful, and responsible. There is a way to do both.” - Andrea Foster


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Revolutionizing Hospitality Education - Nicolas Graf - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 201 201 201 Revolutionizing Hospitality Education - Nicolas Graf - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 201 full 4bdd16eb-64b4-42c1-b366-08cf81f8a493 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7baab983 How is hospitality education evolving? Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean at New York University’s Jonathan M Tisch Center of Hospitality, joins Dan today to discuss the realm of hospitality education. Their discussion spans Nicolas's unique career path that started from being a high school dropout and chef apprentice in Switzerland, to becoming a chaired professor of hospitality. They explore the essential role of hospitality in everyday life and its potential for significantly impacting careers. The two dive into the future of hospitality education, emerging pathways for students and apprentices, and the substantial impact of hosting hospitality conferences. The episode also highlights the importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities, the evolution of the experience economy, and how institutions like NYU are shaping the future of the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Say "yes" more often to opportunities that come your way, even if they are outside your comfort zone. These can lead to unexpectedly positive outcomes and career paths.
  • Recognize that the hospitality industry offers multiple pathways, including traditional four-year degrees, apprenticeships, and associate degrees that can credit work-based experience. Explore these options based on your circumstances and goals.
  • Take advantage of financial aid and scholarships offered by institutions like NYU, especially if financial constraints are a concern. These avenues can significantly reduce the economic burden of higher education.
  • Understand that the principles of hospitality (such as making people feel cared for and appreciated) are applicable across various industries beyond hotels and restaurants. Develop and leverage these skills to enhance your career in any field.
  • Strive to positively impact others through your work. Whether you're an educator, manager, or employee, making a difference in people's lives is deeply rewarding.
  • Be open to different roles and industries throughout your career. Experiences in jobs like hotels, consulting, and even internships can provide diverse skills and perspectives that are highly valuable.


Quote of the Show:

“ One thing that's always been exciting for me is when you can positively impact someone else, and that's probably why I am doing what I'm doing.” - Nicolas Graf


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How is hospitality education evolving? Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean at New York University’s Jonathan M Tisch Center of Hospitality, joins Dan today to discuss the realm of hospitality education. Their discussion spans Nicolas's unique career path that started from being a high school dropout and chef apprentice in Switzerland, to becoming a chaired professor of hospitality. They explore the essential role of hospitality in everyday life and its potential for significantly impacting careers. The two dive into the future of hospitality education, emerging pathways for students and apprentices, and the substantial impact of hosting hospitality conferences. The episode also highlights the importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities, the evolution of the experience economy, and how institutions like NYU are shaping the future of the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Say "yes" more often to opportunities that come your way, even if they are outside your comfort zone. These can lead to unexpectedly positive outcomes and career paths.
  • Recognize that the hospitality industry offers multiple pathways, including traditional four-year degrees, apprenticeships, and associate degrees that can credit work-based experience. Explore these options based on your circumstances and goals.
  • Take advantage of financial aid and scholarships offered by institutions like NYU, especially if financial constraints are a concern. These avenues can significantly reduce the economic burden of higher education.
  • Understand that the principles of hospitality (such as making people feel cared for and appreciated) are applicable across various industries beyond hotels and restaurants. Develop and leverage these skills to enhance your career in any field.
  • Strive to positively impact others through your work. Whether you're an educator, manager, or employee, making a difference in people's lives is deeply rewarding.
  • Be open to different roles and industries throughout your career. Experiences in jobs like hotels, consulting, and even internships can provide diverse skills and perspectives that are highly valuable.


Quote of the Show:

“ One thing that's always been exciting for me is when you can positively impact someone else, and that's probably why I am doing what I'm doing.” - Nicolas Graf


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 21 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4184 How is hospitality education evolving? Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean at New York University’s Jonathan M Tisch Center of Hospitality, joins Dan today to discuss the realm of hospitality education. Their discussion spans Nicolas's unique career path that started from being a high school dropout and chef apprentice in Switzerland, to becoming a chaired professor of hospitality. They explore the essential role of hospitality in everyday life and its potential for significantly impacting careers. The two dive into the future of hospitality education, emerging pathways for students and apprentices, and the substantial impact of hosting hospitality conferences. The episode also highlights the importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities, the evolution of the experience economy, and how institutions like NYU are shaping the future of the hospitality industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Say "yes" more often to opportunities that come your way, even if they are outside your comfort zone. These can lead to unexpectedly positive outcomes and career paths.
  • Recognize that the hospitality industry offers multiple pathways, including traditional four-year degrees, apprenticeships, and associate degrees that can credit work-based experience. Explore these options based on your circumstances and goals.
  • Take advantage of financial aid and scholarships offered by institutions like NYU, especially if financial constraints are a concern. These avenues can significantly reduce the economic burden of higher education.
  • Understand that the principles of hospitality (such as making people feel cared for and appreciated) are applicable across various industries beyond hotels and restaurants. Develop and leverage these skills to enhance your career in any field.
  • Strive to positively impact others through your work. Whether you're an educator, manager, or employee, making a difference in people's lives is deeply rewarding.
  • Be open to different roles and industries throughout your career. Experiences in jobs like hotels, consulting, and even internships can provide diverse skills and perspectives that are highly valuable.


Quote of the Show:

“ One thing that's always been exciting for me is when you can positively impact someone else, and that's probably why I am doing what I'm doing.” - Nicolas Graf


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Building The Dream: Dubai’s Hospitality Scene - Jensen Moonien - Defining Hospitality - Episode #200 200 200 Building The Dream: Dubai’s Hospitality Scene - Jensen Moonien - Defining Hospitality - Episode #200 full 90720c72-7ed1-44eb-85ec-5bc46e781da8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a18fa4df There’s a lot that goes on pre-opening in hospitality, whether it be a hotel, a club, or a restaurant. That’s where Jensen Moonien comes in. He is the Founder and Managing Director of La Rencontre, a consulting firm specializing in the F&B space of hospitality. Jensen discusses the importance of hospitality, sharing enduring memories without expecting anything in return, and highlights his entrepreneurial journey, including his move from Mauritius to Dubai. The conversation covers the complexities and strategies of opening a successful restaurant in Dubai, including market adaptation, the significance of the pre-opening phase, and the vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene in the UAE. Jensen also sheds light on the influx of investments in Dubai and the evolving trends in creating immersive and festive dining experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Bring global brands or concepts, but adapt them to fit the local market requirements. Understanding the local customer psyche is essential.
  • Focus on getting the pre-opening phase right. Ensure all aspects, from design to marketing, are flawlessly executed to make a strong first impression.
  • Engage with local consultants who understand the market dynamics, regulatory framework, and customer preferences to navigate the challenges more effectively.
  • Location is crucial. Evaluate whether the concept is better suited for a hotel environment or an independent setup based on the target clientele and business goals.
  • Establish connections with local PR firms, promoters, and concierge services that can drive customer footfall and enhance visibility.
  • Consider innovative business models like dinner shows or hybrid concepts (restaurant + nightclub) that cater to local trends and customer behaviors.
  • Identify and capitalize on the unique aspects of the business, whether it's the design, the culinary experience, or exclusive entertainment offerings.

Quote of the Show:

“I think everybody is kind of sold on the dream of coming to Dubai, of having the platform to create things, and it's true.” - Jensen Moonien


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> There’s a lot that goes on pre-opening in hospitality, whether it be a hotel, a club, or a restaurant. That’s where Jensen Moonien comes in. He is the Founder and Managing Director of La Rencontre, a consulting firm specializing in the F&B space of hospitality. Jensen discusses the importance of hospitality, sharing enduring memories without expecting anything in return, and highlights his entrepreneurial journey, including his move from Mauritius to Dubai. The conversation covers the complexities and strategies of opening a successful restaurant in Dubai, including market adaptation, the significance of the pre-opening phase, and the vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene in the UAE. Jensen also sheds light on the influx of investments in Dubai and the evolving trends in creating immersive and festive dining experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Bring global brands or concepts, but adapt them to fit the local market requirements. Understanding the local customer psyche is essential.
  • Focus on getting the pre-opening phase right. Ensure all aspects, from design to marketing, are flawlessly executed to make a strong first impression.
  • Engage with local consultants who understand the market dynamics, regulatory framework, and customer preferences to navigate the challenges more effectively.
  • Location is crucial. Evaluate whether the concept is better suited for a hotel environment or an independent setup based on the target clientele and business goals.
  • Establish connections with local PR firms, promoters, and concierge services that can drive customer footfall and enhance visibility.
  • Consider innovative business models like dinner shows or hybrid concepts (restaurant + nightclub) that cater to local trends and customer behaviors.
  • Identify and capitalize on the unique aspects of the business, whether it's the design, the culinary experience, or exclusive entertainment offerings.

Quote of the Show:

“I think everybody is kind of sold on the dream of coming to Dubai, of having the platform to create things, and it's true.” - Jensen Moonien


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 14 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2626 There’s a lot that goes on pre-opening in hospitality, whether it be a hotel, a club, or a restaurant. That’s where Jensen Moonien comes in. He is the Founder and Managing Director of La Rencontre, a consulting firm specializing in the F&B space of hospitality. Jensen discusses the importance of hospitality, sharing enduring memories without expecting anything in return, and highlights his entrepreneurial journey, including his move from Mauritius to Dubai. The conversation covers the complexities and strategies of opening a successful restaurant in Dubai, including market adaptation, the significance of the pre-opening phase, and the vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene in the UAE. Jensen also sheds light on the influx of investments in Dubai and the evolving trends in creating immersive and festive dining experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Bring global brands or concepts, but adapt them to fit the local market requirements. Understanding the local customer psyche is essential.
  • Focus on getting the pre-opening phase right. Ensure all aspects, from design to marketing, are flawlessly executed to make a strong first impression.
  • Engage with local consultants who understand the market dynamics, regulatory framework, and customer preferences to navigate the challenges more effectively.
  • Location is crucial. Evaluate whether the concept is better suited for a hotel environment or an independent setup based on the target clientele and business goals.
  • Establish connections with local PR firms, promoters, and concierge services that can drive customer footfall and enhance visibility.
  • Consider innovative business models like dinner shows or hybrid concepts (restaurant + nightclub) that cater to local trends and customer behaviors.
  • Identify and capitalize on the unique aspects of the business, whether it's the design, the culinary experience, or exclusive entertainment offerings.

Quote of the Show:

“I think everybody is kind of sold on the dream of coming to Dubai, of having the platform to create things, and it's true.” - Jensen Moonien


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Investing in Hospitality - Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson - Defining Hospitality - Episode #199 199 199 Investing in Hospitality - Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson - Defining Hospitality - Episode #199 full 76242433-55e1-449a-85ce-262771a8c522 https://share.transistor.fm/s/44b3dc80 Today’s episode pivots into restaurant investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportunities in scaling restaurant businesses. They explore the financial metrics used to evaluate investments, the impact of macroeconomic factors on the industry, and the potential for growth in fast-casual dining. This conversation provides valuable insights for investors, restaurateurs, and industry professionals looking to understand the complexities of hospitality investments.


Takeaways: 

  • When considering an investment or running a restaurant, focus on delivering a strong perceived value to customers. Make sure the food quality, service, and overall experience justify the price they pay.
  • Before expanding, ensure you have replicable systems and processes in place. Detailed documentation and standard operating procedures can help new locations maintain consistency and operational efficiency.
  • Keep an eye on essential financial metrics. Aim for high unit volumes and substantial store-level EBITDA margins, while managing build-out costs effectively.
  • Recognize the critical role of a general manager in each unit. Investing in their development can create a significant positive impact on operational performance. Make the GM role a career-worthy position.
  • Weigh the risks and benefits of lease commitments. Striking the right balance between prime locations and manageable lease liability can be crucial for long-term sustainability.
  • Stay informed about macroeconomic trends and consumer behavior, as these can significantly impact the restaurant industry. Adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive edge.


Quote of the Show:

“What I love most about hospitality is the human connection.” - Nate Edgerly


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s episode pivots into restaurant investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportunities in scaling restaurant businesses. They explore the financial metrics used to evaluate investments, the impact of macroeconomic factors on the industry, and the potential for growth in fast-casual dining. This conversation provides valuable insights for investors, restaurateurs, and industry professionals looking to understand the complexities of hospitality investments.


Takeaways: 

  • When considering an investment or running a restaurant, focus on delivering a strong perceived value to customers. Make sure the food quality, service, and overall experience justify the price they pay.
  • Before expanding, ensure you have replicable systems and processes in place. Detailed documentation and standard operating procedures can help new locations maintain consistency and operational efficiency.
  • Keep an eye on essential financial metrics. Aim for high unit volumes and substantial store-level EBITDA margins, while managing build-out costs effectively.
  • Recognize the critical role of a general manager in each unit. Investing in their development can create a significant positive impact on operational performance. Make the GM role a career-worthy position.
  • Weigh the risks and benefits of lease commitments. Striking the right balance between prime locations and manageable lease liability can be crucial for long-term sustainability.
  • Stay informed about macroeconomic trends and consumer behavior, as these can significantly impact the restaurant industry. Adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive edge.


Quote of the Show:

“What I love most about hospitality is the human connection.” - Nate Edgerly


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 07 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4500 Today’s episode pivots into restaurant investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportunities in scaling restaurant businesses. They explore the financial metrics used to evaluate investments, the impact of macroeconomic factors on the industry, and the potential for growth in fast-casual dining. This conversation provides valuable insights for investors, restaurateurs, and industry professionals looking to understand the complexities of hospitality investments.


Takeaways: 

  • When considering an investment or running a restaurant, focus on delivering a strong perceived value to customers. Make sure the food quality, service, and overall experience justify the price they pay.
  • Before expanding, ensure you have replicable systems and processes in place. Detailed documentation and standard operating procedures can help new locations maintain consistency and operational efficiency.
  • Keep an eye on essential financial metrics. Aim for high unit volumes and substantial store-level EBITDA margins, while managing build-out costs effectively.
  • Recognize the critical role of a general manager in each unit. Investing in their development can create a significant positive impact on operational performance. Make the GM role a career-worthy position.
  • Weigh the risks and benefits of lease commitments. Striking the right balance between prime locations and manageable lease liability can be crucial for long-term sustainability.
  • Stay informed about macroeconomic trends and consumer behavior, as these can significantly impact the restaurant industry. Adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive edge.


Quote of the Show:

“What I love most about hospitality is the human connection.” - Nate Edgerly


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Behind the Smoke: Media in Hospitality - Shawn Walchef - Defining Hospitality - Episode #198 198 198 Behind the Smoke: Media in Hospitality - Shawn Walchef - Defining Hospitality - Episode #198 full d320e122-b4ad-491c-865f-f294323f06d6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/806e1962 What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting one's craft. Shawn also offers practical advice on leveraging digital media to build and grow a business, emphasizing the need to create consistent content and the power of being a curious and compassionate host. This episode is a must-watch for those looking to embrace their media presence.


Takeaways: 

  • Every business should think of itself as a media company. Start by creating long-form content, such as a podcast or YouTube channel, to share your story and connect with your audience.
  • If you’re starting a podcast, commit to a regular schedule. For example, publishing every week without fail can build discipline and ensure you develop a reliable content stream.
  • Leverage multiple social media platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to share your content. Different platforms allow you to reach different segments of your audience.
  • Curiosity is a driving force in hospitality. Engage with people by asking questions and showing genuine interest in their stories. This approach can deepen relationships and loyalty.
  • Adopt a mindset of rapid experimentation. Try new technologies and media quickly. If you fail, you’ll learn faster and can adjust your strategies accordingly.
  • Find your "anchor tenant" or main partner that can lend credibility to your initiatives and help you attract more opportunities and partnerships.
  • Listen to your audience and adjust your content strategy based on their feedback. This responsiveness can foster loyalty and better meet the needs of your listeners or viewers.


Quote of the Show:

“ The better that we get at our craft, the deeper the connections we make, both at our restaurants in real life, in our community, and online.” - Shawn Walchef


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting one's craft. Shawn also offers practical advice on leveraging digital media to build and grow a business, emphasizing the need to create consistent content and the power of being a curious and compassionate host. This episode is a must-watch for those looking to embrace their media presence.


Takeaways: 

  • Every business should think of itself as a media company. Start by creating long-form content, such as a podcast or YouTube channel, to share your story and connect with your audience.
  • If you’re starting a podcast, commit to a regular schedule. For example, publishing every week without fail can build discipline and ensure you develop a reliable content stream.
  • Leverage multiple social media platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to share your content. Different platforms allow you to reach different segments of your audience.
  • Curiosity is a driving force in hospitality. Engage with people by asking questions and showing genuine interest in their stories. This approach can deepen relationships and loyalty.
  • Adopt a mindset of rapid experimentation. Try new technologies and media quickly. If you fail, you’ll learn faster and can adjust your strategies accordingly.
  • Find your "anchor tenant" or main partner that can lend credibility to your initiatives and help you attract more opportunities and partnerships.
  • Listen to your audience and adjust your content strategy based on their feedback. This responsiveness can foster loyalty and better meet the needs of your listeners or viewers.


Quote of the Show:

“ The better that we get at our craft, the deeper the connections we make, both at our restaurants in real life, in our community, and online.” - Shawn Walchef


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3766 What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting one's craft. Shawn also offers practical advice on leveraging digital media to build and grow a business, emphasizing the need to create consistent content and the power of being a curious and compassionate host. This episode is a must-watch for those looking to embrace their media presence.


Takeaways: 

  • Every business should think of itself as a media company. Start by creating long-form content, such as a podcast or YouTube channel, to share your story and connect with your audience.
  • If you’re starting a podcast, commit to a regular schedule. For example, publishing every week without fail can build discipline and ensure you develop a reliable content stream.
  • Leverage multiple social media platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to share your content. Different platforms allow you to reach different segments of your audience.
  • Curiosity is a driving force in hospitality. Engage with people by asking questions and showing genuine interest in their stories. This approach can deepen relationships and loyalty.
  • Adopt a mindset of rapid experimentation. Try new technologies and media quickly. If you fail, you’ll learn faster and can adjust your strategies accordingly.
  • Find your "anchor tenant" or main partner that can lend credibility to your initiatives and help you attract more opportunities and partnerships.
  • Listen to your audience and adjust your content strategy based on their feedback. This responsiveness can foster loyalty and better meet the needs of your listeners or viewers.


Quote of the Show:

“ The better that we get at our craft, the deeper the connections we make, both at our restaurants in real life, in our community, and online.” - Shawn Walchef


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt A Lifetime in Hospitality - Xavier Lividini - Defining Hospitality - Episode #197 197 197 A Lifetime in Hospitality - Xavier Lividini - Defining Hospitality - Episode #197 full 692f28b2-6ea7-47cc-8772-7c8d47c63653 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9a0a8b4d Sometimes you find yourself born into a business. That’s exactly what landed Xavier Lividini, Managing Partner at Hospitality Advance International, in the hospitality industry as he comes from a family of hoteliers! Xavier shares insights from his extensive career in operations, marketing strategy, and hospitality management and development. The episode covers stories from his time at iconic hotels like the Waldorf Astoria and the InterContinental and highlights valuable lessons from his family’s multigenerational involvement in the hotel industry. He also shares his entrepreneurial journey of founding Hospitality Advance International and his rewarding work in the boutique hotel space. The episode provides a refreshing look into some interesting hospitality stories that you won’t want to miss.


Takeaways:

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests in all aspects of hospitality, from the welcome at the front desk to the services provided in restaurants and rooms.
  • Gain experience in varied departments such as front desk operations, food and beverage, and sales. Broad knowledge across departments can lead to more significant leadership opportunities.
  • Shift from a traditional management style to a coaching approach. Focus on developing your team by providing constructive feedback and supporting their growth.
  • Stay open to learning from peers, mentors, and even those you supervise. Recognize the value of diverse experiences and backgrounds in the industry.
  • Be prepared to take on responsibilities outside your comfort zone. These challenges can provide significant learning experiences and opportunities for advancement.
  • Engage in professional organizations and groups to stay updated with industry trends and connect with other professionals globally.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s really about working with people, working with a team, and coaching these people.” - Xavier Lividini


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Sometimes you find yourself born into a business. That’s exactly what landed Xavier Lividini, Managing Partner at Hospitality Advance International, in the hospitality industry as he comes from a family of hoteliers! Xavier shares insights from his extensive career in operations, marketing strategy, and hospitality management and development. The episode covers stories from his time at iconic hotels like the Waldorf Astoria and the InterContinental and highlights valuable lessons from his family’s multigenerational involvement in the hotel industry. He also shares his entrepreneurial journey of founding Hospitality Advance International and his rewarding work in the boutique hotel space. The episode provides a refreshing look into some interesting hospitality stories that you won’t want to miss.


Takeaways:

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests in all aspects of hospitality, from the welcome at the front desk to the services provided in restaurants and rooms.
  • Gain experience in varied departments such as front desk operations, food and beverage, and sales. Broad knowledge across departments can lead to more significant leadership opportunities.
  • Shift from a traditional management style to a coaching approach. Focus on developing your team by providing constructive feedback and supporting their growth.
  • Stay open to learning from peers, mentors, and even those you supervise. Recognize the value of diverse experiences and backgrounds in the industry.
  • Be prepared to take on responsibilities outside your comfort zone. These challenges can provide significant learning experiences and opportunities for advancement.
  • Engage in professional organizations and groups to stay updated with industry trends and connect with other professionals globally.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s really about working with people, working with a team, and coaching these people.” - Xavier Lividini


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2937 Sometimes you find yourself born into a business. That’s exactly what landed Xavier Lividini, Managing Partner at Hospitality Advance International, in the hospitality industry as he comes from a family of hoteliers! Xavier shares insights from his extensive career in operations, marketing strategy, and hospitality management and development. The episode covers stories from his time at iconic hotels like the Waldorf Astoria and the InterContinental and highlights valuable lessons from his family’s multigenerational involvement in the hotel industry. He also shares his entrepreneurial journey of founding Hospitality Advance International and his rewarding work in the boutique hotel space. The episode provides a refreshing look into some interesting hospitality stories that you won’t want to miss.


Takeaways:

  • Focus on creating memorable experiences for guests in all aspects of hospitality, from the welcome at the front desk to the services provided in restaurants and rooms.
  • Gain experience in varied departments such as front desk operations, food and beverage, and sales. Broad knowledge across departments can lead to more significant leadership opportunities.
  • Shift from a traditional management style to a coaching approach. Focus on developing your team by providing constructive feedback and supporting their growth.
  • Stay open to learning from peers, mentors, and even those you supervise. Recognize the value of diverse experiences and backgrounds in the industry.
  • Be prepared to take on responsibilities outside your comfort zone. These challenges can provide significant learning experiences and opportunities for advancement.
  • Engage in professional organizations and groups to stay updated with industry trends and connect with other professionals globally.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s really about working with people, working with a team, and coaching these people.” - Xavier Lividini


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Beyond the Green: Hospitality & High-Performance - Scott Young - Defining Hospitality - Episode #196 196 196 Beyond the Green: Hospitality & High-Performance - Scott Young - Defining Hospitality - Episode #196 full abcc29dc-85a6-4371-9f85-48b2a630c886 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b29ce282 “ Our hospitality starts with education, but it's also having a welcoming point of view.”

Scott Young, Founder of SSWING, an innovative indoor golf training facility in New York City, and an expert golfer joins the podcast today to hash out the meaning of hospitality and dive into his business. They discuss the broader meaning of hospitality in various environments, focusing on creating a welcoming yet challenging space to help people improve. The conversation dives into Scott’s analytical approach to golf using math and biomechanics, balancing customer comfort with pushing them to new limits. Scott shares insights from his touring days and stories about the honesty and pressure in golf. The episode highlights the importance of process-oriented improvement and maintaining a clear mental focus.


Takeaways: 

  • Whether it’s golf or any other aspect of life, embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and commit to bettering yourself.
  • Aim to have a consistent and clear process for achieving your goals. In golf, this means focusing on your pre-shot routine and execution rather than being overly concerned with the outcome.
  • Utilize technology such as biomechanics assessments, high-speed cameras, and other tools to get precise feedback and improve your performance.
  • Develop mental resilience by practicing staying focused and present in high-pressure situations. This can be beneficial in sports and various other stressful scenarios in life.
  • If appropriate for your business, consider a membership model to build a committed community and create a steady revenue stream.
  • After any performance or practice, reflect honestly on your process and identify areas where you either succeeded or could improve.
  • Use personal stories and experiences, whether from a professional athlete or your own life, to gain insights and inspire your growth journey.


Quote of the Show:

“  My essence of SSWING is that every single person who walks through our door leaves a better golfer or a better mover.” - Scott Young


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> “ Our hospitality starts with education, but it's also having a welcoming point of view.”

Scott Young, Founder of SSWING, an innovative indoor golf training facility in New York City, and an expert golfer joins the podcast today to hash out the meaning of hospitality and dive into his business. They discuss the broader meaning of hospitality in various environments, focusing on creating a welcoming yet challenging space to help people improve. The conversation dives into Scott’s analytical approach to golf using math and biomechanics, balancing customer comfort with pushing them to new limits. Scott shares insights from his touring days and stories about the honesty and pressure in golf. The episode highlights the importance of process-oriented improvement and maintaining a clear mental focus.


Takeaways: 

  • Whether it’s golf or any other aspect of life, embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and commit to bettering yourself.
  • Aim to have a consistent and clear process for achieving your goals. In golf, this means focusing on your pre-shot routine and execution rather than being overly concerned with the outcome.
  • Utilize technology such as biomechanics assessments, high-speed cameras, and other tools to get precise feedback and improve your performance.
  • Develop mental resilience by practicing staying focused and present in high-pressure situations. This can be beneficial in sports and various other stressful scenarios in life.
  • If appropriate for your business, consider a membership model to build a committed community and create a steady revenue stream.
  • After any performance or practice, reflect honestly on your process and identify areas where you either succeeded or could improve.
  • Use personal stories and experiences, whether from a professional athlete or your own life, to gain insights and inspire your growth journey.


Quote of the Show:

“  My essence of SSWING is that every single person who walks through our door leaves a better golfer or a better mover.” - Scott Young


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3291 “ Our hospitality starts with education, but it's also having a welcoming point of view.”

Scott Young, Founder of SSWING, an innovative indoor golf training facility in New York City, and an expert golfer joins the podcast today to hash out the meaning of hospitality and dive into his business. They discuss the broader meaning of hospitality in various environments, focusing on creating a welcoming yet challenging space to help people improve. The conversation dives into Scott’s analytical approach to golf using math and biomechanics, balancing customer comfort with pushing them to new limits. Scott shares insights from his touring days and stories about the honesty and pressure in golf. The episode highlights the importance of process-oriented improvement and maintaining a clear mental focus.


Takeaways: 

  • Whether it’s golf or any other aspect of life, embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and commit to bettering yourself.
  • Aim to have a consistent and clear process for achieving your goals. In golf, this means focusing on your pre-shot routine and execution rather than being overly concerned with the outcome.
  • Utilize technology such as biomechanics assessments, high-speed cameras, and other tools to get precise feedback and improve your performance.
  • Develop mental resilience by practicing staying focused and present in high-pressure situations. This can be beneficial in sports and various other stressful scenarios in life.
  • If appropriate for your business, consider a membership model to build a committed community and create a steady revenue stream.
  • After any performance or practice, reflect honestly on your process and identify areas where you either succeeded or could improve.
  • Use personal stories and experiences, whether from a professional athlete or your own life, to gain insights and inspire your growth journey.


Quote of the Show:

“  My essence of SSWING is that every single person who walks through our door leaves a better golfer or a better mover.” - Scott Young


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Cultivating Joy and Awe - Nathan St. Cyr- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 195 195 195 Cultivating Joy and Awe - Nathan St. Cyr- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 195 full 8de0e488-e792-4ff7-a84d-b9bdaf05e426 https://share.transistor.fm/s/29654bd7 What does it take to be the number one small hostile in North America? Today we welcome Nathan St. Cyr, Co-Founder of Malama Capital and Owner of Howzit Hostels, to tell us just that. Dan and Nathan dive into Nathan's journey within the hospitality industry, including his foundational experiences in sales, his profound motivation rooted in personal history, and the creation of successful hospitality ventures in Maui. They talk about the six human emotional needs, their own podcast experiences, and the evolution of their business practices. This engaging conversation highlights the unique aspects of building a culture-focused hospitality brand.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on how your role or business can contribute to the well-being and happiness of others, which will enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Ensure your service or hospitality offering addresses the six human emotional needs: variety, security/certainty, connection, significance, contribution, and growth.
  • Leadership and mindset are crucial. Develop a leadership style that emphasizes positivity, contribution, and personal development. Shift focus towards mindset training to ensure your team operates at its best.
  • Implement frameworks such as EOS to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and ensure your team is aligned with the company’s goals.
  • Invest in effective marketing strategies to tell your story. Use platforms like podcasts and social media to reach a wider audience and create a personal connection with potential customers and investors.
  • Celebrate and acknowledge significant milestones, both within the team and with guests. This creates a sense of community and shared success.


Quote of the Show:

“ We really focused on anybody that worked for us to not just want to want a job. We wanted people that wanted to be a part of something special and build something unbelievable.” - Nathan St. Cyr


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What does it take to be the number one small hostile in North America? Today we welcome Nathan St. Cyr, Co-Founder of Malama Capital and Owner of Howzit Hostels, to tell us just that. Dan and Nathan dive into Nathan's journey within the hospitality industry, including his foundational experiences in sales, his profound motivation rooted in personal history, and the creation of successful hospitality ventures in Maui. They talk about the six human emotional needs, their own podcast experiences, and the evolution of their business practices. This engaging conversation highlights the unique aspects of building a culture-focused hospitality brand.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on how your role or business can contribute to the well-being and happiness of others, which will enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Ensure your service or hospitality offering addresses the six human emotional needs: variety, security/certainty, connection, significance, contribution, and growth.
  • Leadership and mindset are crucial. Develop a leadership style that emphasizes positivity, contribution, and personal development. Shift focus towards mindset training to ensure your team operates at its best.
  • Implement frameworks such as EOS to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and ensure your team is aligned with the company’s goals.
  • Invest in effective marketing strategies to tell your story. Use platforms like podcasts and social media to reach a wider audience and create a personal connection with potential customers and investors.
  • Celebrate and acknowledge significant milestones, both within the team and with guests. This creates a sense of community and shared success.


Quote of the Show:

“ We really focused on anybody that worked for us to not just want to want a job. We wanted people that wanted to be a part of something special and build something unbelievable.” - Nathan St. Cyr


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3594 What does it take to be the number one small hostile in North America? Today we welcome Nathan St. Cyr, Co-Founder of Malama Capital and Owner of Howzit Hostels, to tell us just that. Dan and Nathan dive into Nathan's journey within the hospitality industry, including his foundational experiences in sales, his profound motivation rooted in personal history, and the creation of successful hospitality ventures in Maui. They talk about the six human emotional needs, their own podcast experiences, and the evolution of their business practices. This engaging conversation highlights the unique aspects of building a culture-focused hospitality brand.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on how your role or business can contribute to the well-being and happiness of others, which will enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Ensure your service or hospitality offering addresses the six human emotional needs: variety, security/certainty, connection, significance, contribution, and growth.
  • Leadership and mindset are crucial. Develop a leadership style that emphasizes positivity, contribution, and personal development. Shift focus towards mindset training to ensure your team operates at its best.
  • Implement frameworks such as EOS to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and ensure your team is aligned with the company’s goals.
  • Invest in effective marketing strategies to tell your story. Use platforms like podcasts and social media to reach a wider audience and create a personal connection with potential customers and investors.
  • Celebrate and acknowledge significant milestones, both within the team and with guests. This creates a sense of community and shared success.


Quote of the Show:

“ We really focused on anybody that worked for us to not just want to want a job. We wanted people that wanted to be a part of something special and build something unbelievable.” - Nathan St. Cyr


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Weaving the Future of Design - Mark Page - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 194 194 194 Weaving the Future of Design - Mark Page - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 194 full b10e6c5e-17f5-4551-8f73-c06bff0e4ae8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8fbbd06 Mentorship is important in encouraging students to enter artistic and creative career paths. Mark Page, Vice President of Design at Mohawk Industries, touches on the importance of fostering connections with colleges and universities to inspire the youth of today to continue their creative paths. Mark also shares insights on the challenges and innovations in flooring, such as the use of sustainable materials and advanced fiber technologies. He discusses the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, being able to offer something creative and beautiful that also meets functional and performance needs. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone interested in hospitality design, product innovation, and the flooring industry's future.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and enhancing the guest's journey is essential. Tailor experiences to make guests feel cared for and welcome.
  • Design spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and relaxing. Consider how elements like flooring can contribute to the overall guest experience.
  • Embrace new materials and technologies. For example, using advanced fibers in carpets that repel stains can increase longevity and maintain aesthetic appeal.
  • Incorporate sustainable practices, such as using recyclable materials in flooring, which can enhance the brand's eco-friendly appeal and reduce environmental impact.
  • Recognize that different segments (hospitality, healthcare, office, etc.) have unique design needs and challenges. Tailor offerings to meet these specific requirements.
  • Build relationships with colleges and design schools to attract fresh talent and foster loyalty among future designers.
  • Ensure that design choices consider maintenance and longevity, making spaces easier to clean and sustain over time.


Quote of the Show:

“ My ideal is that our clients look to us for innovation, for new styling as being the specialists, as being the trend forecasters. We want them to come to us first. ” - Mark Page


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Mentorship is important in encouraging students to enter artistic and creative career paths. Mark Page, Vice President of Design at Mohawk Industries, touches on the importance of fostering connections with colleges and universities to inspire the youth of today to continue their creative paths. Mark also shares insights on the challenges and innovations in flooring, such as the use of sustainable materials and advanced fiber technologies. He discusses the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, being able to offer something creative and beautiful that also meets functional and performance needs. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone interested in hospitality design, product innovation, and the flooring industry's future.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and enhancing the guest's journey is essential. Tailor experiences to make guests feel cared for and welcome.
  • Design spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and relaxing. Consider how elements like flooring can contribute to the overall guest experience.
  • Embrace new materials and technologies. For example, using advanced fibers in carpets that repel stains can increase longevity and maintain aesthetic appeal.
  • Incorporate sustainable practices, such as using recyclable materials in flooring, which can enhance the brand's eco-friendly appeal and reduce environmental impact.
  • Recognize that different segments (hospitality, healthcare, office, etc.) have unique design needs and challenges. Tailor offerings to meet these specific requirements.
  • Build relationships with colleges and design schools to attract fresh talent and foster loyalty among future designers.
  • Ensure that design choices consider maintenance and longevity, making spaces easier to clean and sustain over time.


Quote of the Show:

“ My ideal is that our clients look to us for innovation, for new styling as being the specialists, as being the trend forecasters. We want them to come to us first. ” - Mark Page


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3786 Mentorship is important in encouraging students to enter artistic and creative career paths. Mark Page, Vice President of Design at Mohawk Industries, touches on the importance of fostering connections with colleges and universities to inspire the youth of today to continue their creative paths. Mark also shares insights on the challenges and innovations in flooring, such as the use of sustainable materials and advanced fiber technologies. He discusses the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, being able to offer something creative and beautiful that also meets functional and performance needs. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone interested in hospitality design, product innovation, and the flooring industry's future.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and enhancing the guest's journey is essential. Tailor experiences to make guests feel cared for and welcome.
  • Design spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and relaxing. Consider how elements like flooring can contribute to the overall guest experience.
  • Embrace new materials and technologies. For example, using advanced fibers in carpets that repel stains can increase longevity and maintain aesthetic appeal.
  • Incorporate sustainable practices, such as using recyclable materials in flooring, which can enhance the brand's eco-friendly appeal and reduce environmental impact.
  • Recognize that different segments (hospitality, healthcare, office, etc.) have unique design needs and challenges. Tailor offerings to meet these specific requirements.
  • Build relationships with colleges and design schools to attract fresh talent and foster loyalty among future designers.
  • Ensure that design choices consider maintenance and longevity, making spaces easier to clean and sustain over time.


Quote of the Show:

“ My ideal is that our clients look to us for innovation, for new styling as being the specialists, as being the trend forecasters. We want them to come to us first. ” - Mark Page


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Building Together - Ian Mills and Becca Roderick- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 193 193 193 Building Together - Ian Mills and Becca Roderick- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 193 full 1d776c8a-91cd-408a-b676-87e64a567a9a https://share.transistor.fm/s/a5b5550e Today we discuss the intersection of architecture and interior design, finding a common ground for both aspects to complement each other. Ian Mills and Becca Roderick, Executive Directors of Architecture and Interiors, respectively, at Morris Adjmi Architects. They delve into the concept of hospitality, the collaborative process within their firm, and how they align their visions to create contextually relevant and impactful projects. The conversation covers notable projects like the Wythe Hotel and The Forth, emphasizing how thoughtful design can redefine neighborhoods and meet client expectations. They also discuss the emergence of branded residences and the importance of client buy-in and strategic investment in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage regular collaboration and communication between the architecture and interior design teams to align on the project's North Star.
  • Conduct thorough research on the location, history, and context of the project site to create designs that are both impactful and fitting with the surroundings.
  • Prioritize elements that make guests feel cared for, regardless of the budget or exclusivity of the experience.
  • Invest in high-quality design, as it can significantly enhance the financial performance of hospitality projects. Tightly manage budgets to ensure investments are spent judiciously and effectively.
  • Be prepared for unexpected challenges, especially in adaptive reuse projects. Have mechanisms in place to manage and respond to these surprises.
  • Keep clients informed and involved throughout the project's lifecycle to ensure continuous alignment and buy-in.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're bringing the same mentality and sort of rigor to every project because we think that every project can change the neighborhood that it's in.” - Ian Mills


“ When you strip everything back and peel things away, hospitality is really about caring for people and fostering community.” - Becca Roderick


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today we discuss the intersection of architecture and interior design, finding a common ground for both aspects to complement each other. Ian Mills and Becca Roderick, Executive Directors of Architecture and Interiors, respectively, at Morris Adjmi Architects. They delve into the concept of hospitality, the collaborative process within their firm, and how they align their visions to create contextually relevant and impactful projects. The conversation covers notable projects like the Wythe Hotel and The Forth, emphasizing how thoughtful design can redefine neighborhoods and meet client expectations. They also discuss the emergence of branded residences and the importance of client buy-in and strategic investment in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage regular collaboration and communication between the architecture and interior design teams to align on the project's North Star.
  • Conduct thorough research on the location, history, and context of the project site to create designs that are both impactful and fitting with the surroundings.
  • Prioritize elements that make guests feel cared for, regardless of the budget or exclusivity of the experience.
  • Invest in high-quality design, as it can significantly enhance the financial performance of hospitality projects. Tightly manage budgets to ensure investments are spent judiciously and effectively.
  • Be prepared for unexpected challenges, especially in adaptive reuse projects. Have mechanisms in place to manage and respond to these surprises.
  • Keep clients informed and involved throughout the project's lifecycle to ensure continuous alignment and buy-in.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're bringing the same mentality and sort of rigor to every project because we think that every project can change the neighborhood that it's in.” - Ian Mills


“ When you strip everything back and peel things away, hospitality is really about caring for people and fostering community.” - Becca Roderick


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3593 Today we discuss the intersection of architecture and interior design, finding a common ground for both aspects to complement each other. Ian Mills and Becca Roderick, Executive Directors of Architecture and Interiors, respectively, at Morris Adjmi Architects. They delve into the concept of hospitality, the collaborative process within their firm, and how they align their visions to create contextually relevant and impactful projects. The conversation covers notable projects like the Wythe Hotel and The Forth, emphasizing how thoughtful design can redefine neighborhoods and meet client expectations. They also discuss the emergence of branded residences and the importance of client buy-in and strategic investment in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Encourage regular collaboration and communication between the architecture and interior design teams to align on the project's North Star.
  • Conduct thorough research on the location, history, and context of the project site to create designs that are both impactful and fitting with the surroundings.
  • Prioritize elements that make guests feel cared for, regardless of the budget or exclusivity of the experience.
  • Invest in high-quality design, as it can significantly enhance the financial performance of hospitality projects. Tightly manage budgets to ensure investments are spent judiciously and effectively.
  • Be prepared for unexpected challenges, especially in adaptive reuse projects. Have mechanisms in place to manage and respond to these surprises.
  • Keep clients informed and involved throughout the project's lifecycle to ensure continuous alignment and buy-in.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're bringing the same mentality and sort of rigor to every project because we think that every project can change the neighborhood that it's in.” - Ian Mills


“ When you strip everything back and peel things away, hospitality is really about caring for people and fostering community.” - Becca Roderick


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Behind the Brand - David Carofano - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 192 192 192 Behind the Brand - David Carofano - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 192 full 93e2ed15-f6ba-4fb3-9057-6f1ae4d27227 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f14c5a9d We’re going all in on branding and strategy for hospitality companies this week! David Carofano, Strategy and Commercial Director at Crown Creative joins as Dan’s guest to discuss the importance of branding in the hospitality industry, from conceptualizing a new project to breathing life into an established brand. David shares his journey, starting from a teenager working in restaurants to becoming a thought leader in hospitality branding. He highlights successful case studies such as the rebranding of The Dead Rabbit and emphasizes the role of brand strategy in creating memorable hospitality experiences. The conversation offers valuable insights for hospitality professionals looking to elevate their brand and connect deeply with their audience.


Takeaways: 

  • Integrate branding and strategy early in the project development process. Clearly define the brand and ensure everyone involved understands its core values and mission.
  • Develop a comprehensive brand book or playbook that outlines your brand’s mission, vision, values, and strategy. This living document should guide all aspects of your business and be referred to regularly.
  • Ensure that every aspect of the guest experience, from design and music to service and food, aligns with your brand’s story and mission. Every detail should contribute to the overall brand experience.
  • Communicate your brand’s core values and mission regularly to staff, partners, and new team members. This ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
  • Work closely with design and branding experts to ensure that the physical spaces and experiences reflect your brand accurately and creatively.


Quote of the Show:

“ I learned everything there is to know about front and back of house and I just sort of fell in love with it. I fell in love with the people, the energy, the chaos, the camaraderie of it, every bit of it.” - David Carofano


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> We’re going all in on branding and strategy for hospitality companies this week! David Carofano, Strategy and Commercial Director at Crown Creative joins as Dan’s guest to discuss the importance of branding in the hospitality industry, from conceptualizing a new project to breathing life into an established brand. David shares his journey, starting from a teenager working in restaurants to becoming a thought leader in hospitality branding. He highlights successful case studies such as the rebranding of The Dead Rabbit and emphasizes the role of brand strategy in creating memorable hospitality experiences. The conversation offers valuable insights for hospitality professionals looking to elevate their brand and connect deeply with their audience.


Takeaways: 

  • Integrate branding and strategy early in the project development process. Clearly define the brand and ensure everyone involved understands its core values and mission.
  • Develop a comprehensive brand book or playbook that outlines your brand’s mission, vision, values, and strategy. This living document should guide all aspects of your business and be referred to regularly.
  • Ensure that every aspect of the guest experience, from design and music to service and food, aligns with your brand’s story and mission. Every detail should contribute to the overall brand experience.
  • Communicate your brand’s core values and mission regularly to staff, partners, and new team members. This ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
  • Work closely with design and branding experts to ensure that the physical spaces and experiences reflect your brand accurately and creatively.


Quote of the Show:

“ I learned everything there is to know about front and back of house and I just sort of fell in love with it. I fell in love with the people, the energy, the chaos, the camaraderie of it, every bit of it.” - David Carofano


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3232 We’re going all in on branding and strategy for hospitality companies this week! David Carofano, Strategy and Commercial Director at Crown Creative joins as Dan’s guest to discuss the importance of branding in the hospitality industry, from conceptualizing a new project to breathing life into an established brand. David shares his journey, starting from a teenager working in restaurants to becoming a thought leader in hospitality branding. He highlights successful case studies such as the rebranding of The Dead Rabbit and emphasizes the role of brand strategy in creating memorable hospitality experiences. The conversation offers valuable insights for hospitality professionals looking to elevate their brand and connect deeply with their audience.


Takeaways: 

  • Integrate branding and strategy early in the project development process. Clearly define the brand and ensure everyone involved understands its core values and mission.
  • Develop a comprehensive brand book or playbook that outlines your brand’s mission, vision, values, and strategy. This living document should guide all aspects of your business and be referred to regularly.
  • Ensure that every aspect of the guest experience, from design and music to service and food, aligns with your brand’s story and mission. Every detail should contribute to the overall brand experience.
  • Communicate your brand’s core values and mission regularly to staff, partners, and new team members. This ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
  • Work closely with design and branding experts to ensure that the physical spaces and experiences reflect your brand accurately and creatively.


Quote of the Show:

“ I learned everything there is to know about front and back of house and I just sort of fell in love with it. I fell in love with the people, the energy, the chaos, the camaraderie of it, every bit of it.” - David Carofano


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Putting Others First - Thomas Healy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 191 191 191 Putting Others First - Thomas Healy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 191 full 3f952d82-579f-499d-a8e8-2ba6f9d2fccb https://share.transistor.fm/s/36c249fc What’s more important than making guests feel cared for? Today, Thomas Healy joins to discuss the core values of hospitality, the importance of a diverse and inclusive team, and his definition of leadership. He also reflects on how his upbringing in his family's New Jersey restaurant informed his hospitality ethos. The interview touches on significant topics such as the financial aspects of investing in independent hotels, the role of management companies in fostering employee culture, and the impact of technology on hospitality operations. Tom also shares a personal story about a recent health scare that led him to reevaluate how he spends his time, emphasizing the importance of aligning professional choices with personal values. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of providing authentic, experiential travel experiences for guests.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to make guests feel recognized and valued. Simple gestures like making eye contact and offering a friendly greeting can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of the team. This promotes a sense of relatability and trust within the team, which can enhance the overall culture of the workplace.
  • Provide training that emphasizes both procedural knowledge and soft skills like reading nonverbal cues and understanding body language. This helps in offering personalized and compassionate service.
  • Leverage technology to identify patterns in customer behavior and operations. This data can help in making informed decisions to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • If managing an independent hotel, focus on delivering a unique and engaging guest experience rather than relying on brand recognition alone.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple. It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> What’s more important than making guests feel cared for? Today, Thomas Healy joins to discuss the core values of hospitality, the importance of a diverse and inclusive team, and his definition of leadership. He also reflects on how his upbringing in his family's New Jersey restaurant informed his hospitality ethos. The interview touches on significant topics such as the financial aspects of investing in independent hotels, the role of management companies in fostering employee culture, and the impact of technology on hospitality operations. Tom also shares a personal story about a recent health scare that led him to reevaluate how he spends his time, emphasizing the importance of aligning professional choices with personal values. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of providing authentic, experiential travel experiences for guests.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to make guests feel recognized and valued. Simple gestures like making eye contact and offering a friendly greeting can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of the team. This promotes a sense of relatability and trust within the team, which can enhance the overall culture of the workplace.
  • Provide training that emphasizes both procedural knowledge and soft skills like reading nonverbal cues and understanding body language. This helps in offering personalized and compassionate service.
  • Leverage technology to identify patterns in customer behavior and operations. This data can help in making informed decisions to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • If managing an independent hotel, focus on delivering a unique and engaging guest experience rather than relying on brand recognition alone.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple. It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4184 What’s more important than making guests feel cared for? Today, Thomas Healy joins to discuss the core values of hospitality, the importance of a diverse and inclusive team, and his definition of leadership. He also reflects on how his upbringing in his family's New Jersey restaurant informed his hospitality ethos. The interview touches on significant topics such as the financial aspects of investing in independent hotels, the role of management companies in fostering employee culture, and the impact of technology on hospitality operations. Tom also shares a personal story about a recent health scare that led him to reevaluate how he spends his time, emphasizing the importance of aligning professional choices with personal values. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of providing authentic, experiential travel experiences for guests.


Takeaways: 

  • Always strive to make guests feel recognized and valued. Simple gestures like making eye contact and offering a friendly greeting can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of the team. This promotes a sense of relatability and trust within the team, which can enhance the overall culture of the workplace.
  • Provide training that emphasizes both procedural knowledge and soft skills like reading nonverbal cues and understanding body language. This helps in offering personalized and compassionate service.
  • Leverage technology to identify patterns in customer behavior and operations. This data can help in making informed decisions to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • If managing an independent hotel, focus on delivering a unique and engaging guest experience rather than relying on brand recognition alone.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.
  • Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.

Quote of the Show:

“Hospitality is that simple. It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas Healy


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Elevating Spaces and Inspiring Minds - Kellie Sirna - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 190 190 190 Elevating Spaces and Inspiring Minds - Kellie Sirna - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 190 full 0f68bc29-c131-4dbc-9a3b-031bd388c73a https://share.transistor.fm/s/695739b4 Mentorship is so valuable, especially in hospitality. Today Dan interviews Kellie Sirna, Owner and Principal of Studio 11 Design. Kellie shares her journey through 20 years in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key milestones such as the purchase and renovation of a historic building, the expansion of her business with sister companies specializing in branding and art, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore the importance of mentorship, the evolving landscape of hospitality design, and navigating through the pressures of business restructuring. Kellie also discusses her vision for the future, including international expansion and the development of Studio 11 Design-branded residences. The conversation offers insights into the ups and downs of running a successful design firm and emphasizes the power of collaboration, trust, and perseverance.


Takeaways: 

  • Actively seek out mentors or become one yourself. Reach out to industry leaders for coffee meetings to gain insights.
  • Focus on building and maintaining trust with clients. High trust levels can result in more creative freedom and better project outcomes.
  • In design projects, delve deeply into the local neighborhood's story rather than relying on broad stereotypes or generalizations. This makes the design more authentic and engaging.
  • Consider expanding available services such as branding and art installations within your firm to maintain a cohesive narrative and offer comprehensive solutions to clients.
  • Invest in creating a collaborative and enriching workspace for your team to foster loyalty and productivity.
  • Explore new and innovative project types, such as multifunctional spaces or projects in unique locations, to stand out and attract interest.


Quote of the Show:

“ The people in hospitality, we’re a different breed. We live and breathe hospitality. It's who we are.” - Kellie Sirna


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Mentorship is so valuable, especially in hospitality. Today Dan interviews Kellie Sirna, Owner and Principal of Studio 11 Design. Kellie shares her journey through 20 years in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key milestones such as the purchase and renovation of a historic building, the expansion of her business with sister companies specializing in branding and art, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore the importance of mentorship, the evolving landscape of hospitality design, and navigating through the pressures of business restructuring. Kellie also discusses her vision for the future, including international expansion and the development of Studio 11 Design-branded residences. The conversation offers insights into the ups and downs of running a successful design firm and emphasizes the power of collaboration, trust, and perseverance.


Takeaways: 

  • Actively seek out mentors or become one yourself. Reach out to industry leaders for coffee meetings to gain insights.
  • Focus on building and maintaining trust with clients. High trust levels can result in more creative freedom and better project outcomes.
  • In design projects, delve deeply into the local neighborhood's story rather than relying on broad stereotypes or generalizations. This makes the design more authentic and engaging.
  • Consider expanding available services such as branding and art installations within your firm to maintain a cohesive narrative and offer comprehensive solutions to clients.
  • Invest in creating a collaborative and enriching workspace for your team to foster loyalty and productivity.
  • Explore new and innovative project types, such as multifunctional spaces or projects in unique locations, to stand out and attract interest.


Quote of the Show:

“ The people in hospitality, we’re a different breed. We live and breathe hospitality. It's who we are.” - Kellie Sirna


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3182 Mentorship is so valuable, especially in hospitality. Today Dan interviews Kellie Sirna, Owner and Principal of Studio 11 Design. Kellie shares her journey through 20 years in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key milestones such as the purchase and renovation of a historic building, the expansion of her business with sister companies specializing in branding and art, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore the importance of mentorship, the evolving landscape of hospitality design, and navigating through the pressures of business restructuring. Kellie also discusses her vision for the future, including international expansion and the development of Studio 11 Design-branded residences. The conversation offers insights into the ups and downs of running a successful design firm and emphasizes the power of collaboration, trust, and perseverance.


Takeaways: 

  • Actively seek out mentors or become one yourself. Reach out to industry leaders for coffee meetings to gain insights.
  • Focus on building and maintaining trust with clients. High trust levels can result in more creative freedom and better project outcomes.
  • In design projects, delve deeply into the local neighborhood's story rather than relying on broad stereotypes or generalizations. This makes the design more authentic and engaging.
  • Consider expanding available services such as branding and art installations within your firm to maintain a cohesive narrative and offer comprehensive solutions to clients.
  • Invest in creating a collaborative and enriching workspace for your team to foster loyalty and productivity.
  • Explore new and innovative project types, such as multifunctional spaces or projects in unique locations, to stand out and attract interest.


Quote of the Show:

“ The people in hospitality, we’re a different breed. We live and breathe hospitality. It's who we are.” - Kellie Sirna


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Event Magic and Community Building - Meg Gutowski - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 189 189 189 Event Magic and Community Building - Meg Gutowski - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 189 full 69d597e4-7186-4d8c-b1f6-d496c3c09526 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eeda3131 Is there power behind organized chaos? 

Today, Dan Ryan engages with Meg Gutowski, Vice President of the Independent Lodging Congress (ILC). They discuss the essence of hospitality, the role of ILC in fostering connections among industry professionals, and the unique blend of events hosted by ILC that emphasize genuine human interactions over transactional relationships. Meg shares insights from her extensive experience in the hospitality industry, including planning initiatives, organizing events, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees. They also delve into personal anecdotes and the intricacies of balancing organized chaos in event planning. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of hospitality and the vital role of independent lodging in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize the mission of hospitality to care for people on their journeys. This core purpose should guide all actions and decisions.
  • Strive to create experiences that blend the unexpected with fulfilling guest expectations, making their stays magical but ensuring they feel taken care of.
  • Use unique and less formalized settings, like walk-and-talks, immersive experiences, and local tours, to encourage organic interactions and deeper connections among attendees.
  • Building authentic relationships is crucial. In the hospitality industry, human connection and genuine interactions can set your business apart.
  • Engage with local businesses and community members to enhance the collective experience for visitors.
  • Choose venues and spaces that are comfortable and stimulating for guests, considering their comfort during events and interactions.


Quote of the Show:

“ Trying to figure out the right combination so that it feels very magical, but also you feel like you're taken care of. That's how hospitality has been running through my brain.” - Meg Gutowski


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Is there power behind organized chaos? 

Today, Dan Ryan engages with Meg Gutowski, Vice President of the Independent Lodging Congress (ILC). They discuss the essence of hospitality, the role of ILC in fostering connections among industry professionals, and the unique blend of events hosted by ILC that emphasize genuine human interactions over transactional relationships. Meg shares insights from her extensive experience in the hospitality industry, including planning initiatives, organizing events, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees. They also delve into personal anecdotes and the intricacies of balancing organized chaos in event planning. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of hospitality and the vital role of independent lodging in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize the mission of hospitality to care for people on their journeys. This core purpose should guide all actions and decisions.
  • Strive to create experiences that blend the unexpected with fulfilling guest expectations, making their stays magical but ensuring they feel taken care of.
  • Use unique and less formalized settings, like walk-and-talks, immersive experiences, and local tours, to encourage organic interactions and deeper connections among attendees.
  • Building authentic relationships is crucial. In the hospitality industry, human connection and genuine interactions can set your business apart.
  • Engage with local businesses and community members to enhance the collective experience for visitors.
  • Choose venues and spaces that are comfortable and stimulating for guests, considering their comfort during events and interactions.


Quote of the Show:

“ Trying to figure out the right combination so that it feels very magical, but also you feel like you're taken care of. That's how hospitality has been running through my brain.” - Meg Gutowski


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3683 Is there power behind organized chaos? 

Today, Dan Ryan engages with Meg Gutowski, Vice President of the Independent Lodging Congress (ILC). They discuss the essence of hospitality, the role of ILC in fostering connections among industry professionals, and the unique blend of events hosted by ILC that emphasize genuine human interactions over transactional relationships. Meg shares insights from her extensive experience in the hospitality industry, including planning initiatives, organizing events, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees. They also delve into personal anecdotes and the intricacies of balancing organized chaos in event planning. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of hospitality and the vital role of independent lodging in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize the mission of hospitality to care for people on their journeys. This core purpose should guide all actions and decisions.
  • Strive to create experiences that blend the unexpected with fulfilling guest expectations, making their stays magical but ensuring they feel taken care of.
  • Use unique and less formalized settings, like walk-and-talks, immersive experiences, and local tours, to encourage organic interactions and deeper connections among attendees.
  • Building authentic relationships is crucial. In the hospitality industry, human connection and genuine interactions can set your business apart.
  • Engage with local businesses and community members to enhance the collective experience for visitors.
  • Choose venues and spaces that are comfortable and stimulating for guests, considering their comfort during events and interactions.


Quote of the Show:

“ Trying to figure out the right combination so that it feels very magical, but also you feel like you're taken care of. That's how hospitality has been running through my brain.” - Meg Gutowski


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Soulful Hospitality - Rob Blood - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 188 188 188 Soulful Hospitality - Rob Blood - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 188 full f9fb7ecb-a778-4b03-ae9e-0354180981ee https://share.transistor.fm/s/39f93762 What is soul-making hospitality? Today, Rob Blood, Founder and Chairman of Lark Hotels and Principal at Elder and Ash, joins Dan to talk about the importance of creating genuine hospitality experiences. Rob shares his journey from an innkeeper to managing nearly one hundred hotels and over thirty restaurants. They discuss the core principles of hospitality, the significance of soul-making in hotel design, and the innovative approaches Lark Hotels brings to the industry. The conversation includes insights on scaling businesses, retaining top talent, and tech advancements impacting the sector.


Takeaways: 

  • Understand that hospitality is about creating genuine, memorable experiences for guests, extending beyond just the service provided. Balance the needs and wants of guests to create personalized, eye-to-eye connections.
  • Foster a culture where employees feel like stakeholders and collaborators, thereby increasing their emotional investment in the company.
  • Develop a flexible and scalable operational model that maintains the unique qualities and culture of the brand as the company expands geographically.
  • Ensure that technology streamlines operations, making transactional processes smoother so that staff can focus on guest interactions.
  • Emphasize the soul or essence of the hospitality experience through thoughtful design and service culture, making it an integral part of the guest experience.
  • Cross-train staff to give them a well-rounded understanding of all operations within a hotel, which can enhance retention and career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ We believe that every project has an essence or soul that needs to be drawn out.” - Rob Blood


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What is soul-making hospitality? Today, Rob Blood, Founder and Chairman of Lark Hotels and Principal at Elder and Ash, joins Dan to talk about the importance of creating genuine hospitality experiences. Rob shares his journey from an innkeeper to managing nearly one hundred hotels and over thirty restaurants. They discuss the core principles of hospitality, the significance of soul-making in hotel design, and the innovative approaches Lark Hotels brings to the industry. The conversation includes insights on scaling businesses, retaining top talent, and tech advancements impacting the sector.


Takeaways: 

  • Understand that hospitality is about creating genuine, memorable experiences for guests, extending beyond just the service provided. Balance the needs and wants of guests to create personalized, eye-to-eye connections.
  • Foster a culture where employees feel like stakeholders and collaborators, thereby increasing their emotional investment in the company.
  • Develop a flexible and scalable operational model that maintains the unique qualities and culture of the brand as the company expands geographically.
  • Ensure that technology streamlines operations, making transactional processes smoother so that staff can focus on guest interactions.
  • Emphasize the soul or essence of the hospitality experience through thoughtful design and service culture, making it an integral part of the guest experience.
  • Cross-train staff to give them a well-rounded understanding of all operations within a hotel, which can enhance retention and career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ We believe that every project has an essence or soul that needs to be drawn out.” - Rob Blood


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3721 What is soul-making hospitality? Today, Rob Blood, Founder and Chairman of Lark Hotels and Principal at Elder and Ash, joins Dan to talk about the importance of creating genuine hospitality experiences. Rob shares his journey from an innkeeper to managing nearly one hundred hotels and over thirty restaurants. They discuss the core principles of hospitality, the significance of soul-making in hotel design, and the innovative approaches Lark Hotels brings to the industry. The conversation includes insights on scaling businesses, retaining top talent, and tech advancements impacting the sector.


Takeaways: 

  • Understand that hospitality is about creating genuine, memorable experiences for guests, extending beyond just the service provided. Balance the needs and wants of guests to create personalized, eye-to-eye connections.
  • Foster a culture where employees feel like stakeholders and collaborators, thereby increasing their emotional investment in the company.
  • Develop a flexible and scalable operational model that maintains the unique qualities and culture of the brand as the company expands geographically.
  • Ensure that technology streamlines operations, making transactional processes smoother so that staff can focus on guest interactions.
  • Emphasize the soul or essence of the hospitality experience through thoughtful design and service culture, making it an integral part of the guest experience.
  • Cross-train staff to give them a well-rounded understanding of all operations within a hotel, which can enhance retention and career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ We believe that every project has an essence or soul that needs to be drawn out.” - Rob Blood


Links:


Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Art, Vision, and Impact in Hospitality - Richard Kessler - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 187 187 187 Art, Vision, and Impact in Hospitality - Richard Kessler - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 187 full 416f7452-e8ee-425c-821e-a871c84c244d https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7590461 Implementing art and music, seeing potential, and giving back are the key pillars that Mr. Richard Kessler brings to his business. As the Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection, and over 50 years of experience in the field of hospitality, Mr. Kessler shares in his unique story. Mr. Kessler discusses his transition from helping found Days Inn to pioneering boutique hotels before they were even a recognized category. He reflects on the resilience needed to navigate economic crises, his passion for creating beautiful spaces, and the significance of hospitality in making guests feel cared for and entertained. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Kessler highlights his philanthropic efforts, including building an ecumenical family retreat center and an orphanage, driven by his vision of seeing and nurturing potential in people and places. The episode encapsulates his dedication to leaving a lasting impact through both his business ventures and charitable initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize creating memorable and emotionally impactful experiences for guests.
  • Recognize potential in both people and properties. Look for unique opportunities to transform properties into high-value assets.
  • Be prepared for external challenges like economic downturns and industry-specific crises. Develop resilience and a problem-solving mindset to navigate tough times effectively.
  • Incorporate elements that can set your property apart, such as boutique aesthetics and special themes.
  • Engage directly with guests to understand their experiences and gather feedback. Use guest feedback to continuously improve service and offerings.
  • Look for ways to give back to the community and support charitable causes, in any way that you can.


Quote of the Show:

“ It's a process of caring for people and entertaining people all at the same time. Some people need more care, some people need more entertainment.” - Richard Kessler


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Implementing art and music, seeing potential, and giving back are the key pillars that Mr. Richard Kessler brings to his business. As the Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection, and over 50 years of experience in the field of hospitality, Mr. Kessler shares in his unique story. Mr. Kessler discusses his transition from helping found Days Inn to pioneering boutique hotels before they were even a recognized category. He reflects on the resilience needed to navigate economic crises, his passion for creating beautiful spaces, and the significance of hospitality in making guests feel cared for and entertained. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Kessler highlights his philanthropic efforts, including building an ecumenical family retreat center and an orphanage, driven by his vision of seeing and nurturing potential in people and places. The episode encapsulates his dedication to leaving a lasting impact through both his business ventures and charitable initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize creating memorable and emotionally impactful experiences for guests.
  • Recognize potential in both people and properties. Look for unique opportunities to transform properties into high-value assets.
  • Be prepared for external challenges like economic downturns and industry-specific crises. Develop resilience and a problem-solving mindset to navigate tough times effectively.
  • Incorporate elements that can set your property apart, such as boutique aesthetics and special themes.
  • Engage directly with guests to understand their experiences and gather feedback. Use guest feedback to continuously improve service and offerings.
  • Look for ways to give back to the community and support charitable causes, in any way that you can.


Quote of the Show:

“ It's a process of caring for people and entertaining people all at the same time. Some people need more care, some people need more entertainment.” - Richard Kessler


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3671 Implementing art and music, seeing potential, and giving back are the key pillars that Mr. Richard Kessler brings to his business. As the Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection, and over 50 years of experience in the field of hospitality, Mr. Kessler shares in his unique story. Mr. Kessler discusses his transition from helping found Days Inn to pioneering boutique hotels before they were even a recognized category. He reflects on the resilience needed to navigate economic crises, his passion for creating beautiful spaces, and the significance of hospitality in making guests feel cared for and entertained. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Kessler highlights his philanthropic efforts, including building an ecumenical family retreat center and an orphanage, driven by his vision of seeing and nurturing potential in people and places. The episode encapsulates his dedication to leaving a lasting impact through both his business ventures and charitable initiatives.


Takeaways: 

  • Emphasize creating memorable and emotionally impactful experiences for guests.
  • Recognize potential in both people and properties. Look for unique opportunities to transform properties into high-value assets.
  • Be prepared for external challenges like economic downturns and industry-specific crises. Develop resilience and a problem-solving mindset to navigate tough times effectively.
  • Incorporate elements that can set your property apart, such as boutique aesthetics and special themes.
  • Engage directly with guests to understand their experiences and gather feedback. Use guest feedback to continuously improve service and offerings.
  • Look for ways to give back to the community and support charitable causes, in any way that you can.


Quote of the Show:

“ It's a process of caring for people and entertaining people all at the same time. Some people need more care, some people need more entertainment.” - Richard Kessler


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Rebuilding Hospitality - Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 186 186 186 Rebuilding Hospitality - Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 186 full ca380f89-33e4-42e3-a48f-9a727cc8fafb https://share.transistor.fm/s/2cd257aa Hospitality is key, especially under hardships and destruction, something Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, Co-Owners of the Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins in Asheville, North Carolina are passionate about. They discuss their unique urban campground hotel and the challenges they've faced. The conversation explores the definition of hospitality, the building of their flood-resilient property, and the impact of a recent historic flood on their business and the local community. The duo share their entrepreneurial journey, the human spirit of resilience, and the importance of tourism in revitalizing Asheville post-disaster. The episode is a testament to perseverance, community, and the spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate local culture and unique features of the area into the business, as shown by Joe and Shelton's emphasis on Asheville’s outdoor personality and countercultural vibe.
  • Build emotional connections with guests by highlighting the distinct aspects and personal stories associated with the property.
  • Ensure infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters by adhering to local zoning and building laws.
  • Utilize existing local networks and connections with other businesses to offer comprehensive guest experiences, whether extreme activities for the adventurous or more relaxed, outdoor-curious activities.
  • Foster strong community bonds and be a part of local recovery efforts, which can also lead to supportive relationships and collaborations.
  • Make every guest feel special and connected to the place by providing immersive and memorable experiences, such as customized murals that resonate with the property's theme.
  • Promote group activities and communal spaces to enhance guest interactions and create memorable experiences. For example, having shared spaces like campfires and communal dining areas.


Quote of the Show: 

“ It's my backyard and I wanted to share it with everyone and create an experience that aligned with my version of Asheville.” - Shelton Steele


“ It's part of our mission to connect people with the outdoor experience, whether they be one of those people that's outdoor active or someone that's curious about it.” - Joe Balcken


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality is key, especially under hardships and destruction, something Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, Co-Owners of the Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins in Asheville, North Carolina are passionate about. They discuss their unique urban campground hotel and the challenges they've faced. The conversation explores the definition of hospitality, the building of their flood-resilient property, and the impact of a recent historic flood on their business and the local community. The duo share their entrepreneurial journey, the human spirit of resilience, and the importance of tourism in revitalizing Asheville post-disaster. The episode is a testament to perseverance, community, and the spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate local culture and unique features of the area into the business, as shown by Joe and Shelton's emphasis on Asheville’s outdoor personality and countercultural vibe.
  • Build emotional connections with guests by highlighting the distinct aspects and personal stories associated with the property.
  • Ensure infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters by adhering to local zoning and building laws.
  • Utilize existing local networks and connections with other businesses to offer comprehensive guest experiences, whether extreme activities for the adventurous or more relaxed, outdoor-curious activities.
  • Foster strong community bonds and be a part of local recovery efforts, which can also lead to supportive relationships and collaborations.
  • Make every guest feel special and connected to the place by providing immersive and memorable experiences, such as customized murals that resonate with the property's theme.
  • Promote group activities and communal spaces to enhance guest interactions and create memorable experiences. For example, having shared spaces like campfires and communal dining areas.


Quote of the Show: 

“ It's my backyard and I wanted to share it with everyone and create an experience that aligned with my version of Asheville.” - Shelton Steele


“ It's part of our mission to connect people with the outdoor experience, whether they be one of those people that's outdoor active or someone that's curious about it.” - Joe Balcken


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3160 Hospitality is key, especially under hardships and destruction, something Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, Co-Owners of the Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins in Asheville, North Carolina are passionate about. They discuss their unique urban campground hotel and the challenges they've faced. The conversation explores the definition of hospitality, the building of their flood-resilient property, and the impact of a recent historic flood on their business and the local community. The duo share their entrepreneurial journey, the human spirit of resilience, and the importance of tourism in revitalizing Asheville post-disaster. The episode is a testament to perseverance, community, and the spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate local culture and unique features of the area into the business, as shown by Joe and Shelton's emphasis on Asheville’s outdoor personality and countercultural vibe.
  • Build emotional connections with guests by highlighting the distinct aspects and personal stories associated with the property.
  • Ensure infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters by adhering to local zoning and building laws.
  • Utilize existing local networks and connections with other businesses to offer comprehensive guest experiences, whether extreme activities for the adventurous or more relaxed, outdoor-curious activities.
  • Foster strong community bonds and be a part of local recovery efforts, which can also lead to supportive relationships and collaborations.
  • Make every guest feel special and connected to the place by providing immersive and memorable experiences, such as customized murals that resonate with the property's theme.
  • Promote group activities and communal spaces to enhance guest interactions and create memorable experiences. For example, having shared spaces like campfires and communal dining areas.


Quote of the Show: 

“ It's my backyard and I wanted to share it with everyone and create an experience that aligned with my version of Asheville.” - Shelton Steele


“ It's part of our mission to connect people with the outdoor experience, whether they be one of those people that's outdoor active or someone that's curious about it.” - Joe Balcken


Links:

Shout Outs:

🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Redefining Service Culture - Robyn Pratt - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 185 185 185 Redefining Service Culture - Robyn Pratt - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 185 full 3f25cc34-089f-4d3a-8544-1734b5b207ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/d292ee4d In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Robyn Pratt, the General Manager of the Phoenicia Hotel in Malta and Principal of Impact Consulting Limited. Robyn shares her journey from her upbringing in Australia to becoming a leader in the hospitality industry. She elaborates on the importance of genuine employee engagement and shares her approach to creating a strong service culture that results in both happy employees and loyal guests. Robyn also discusses the unique aspects of Malta and how the island's rich history adds to the charm of the Phoenicia Hotel. This episode provides a deep dive into how authentic leadership and a passion for service can elevate any hospitality operation.


Takeaways: 

  • Recognize that hospitality is about making people feel special and welcome, just as if they are guests in your own home.
  • Appoint a dedicated person to oversee employee wellness, ensuring that your team feels supported both personally and professionally.
  • Spend time interacting with both guests and employees. Regularly walk around the property to engage with your team and understand their daily challenges.
  • Organize monthly general manager's breakfasts or similar informal gatherings where employees from different functions can share ideas and feedback.
  • Implement programs like Employee of the Month, and consider equitable profit-sharing initiatives to incentivize the entire team.
  • Encourage staff to bring their personalities to their roles. Genuine interactions can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Implement comprehensive training programs focused on service culture development and provide opportunities for career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ The words are easy to say, we've got these values. What does it mean? What does it mean to deliver a value of caring?” - Robyn Pratt


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Robyn Pratt, the General Manager of the Phoenicia Hotel in Malta and Principal of Impact Consulting Limited. Robyn shares her journey from her upbringing in Australia to becoming a leader in the hospitality industry. She elaborates on the importance of genuine employee engagement and shares her approach to creating a strong service culture that results in both happy employees and loyal guests. Robyn also discusses the unique aspects of Malta and how the island's rich history adds to the charm of the Phoenicia Hotel. This episode provides a deep dive into how authentic leadership and a passion for service can elevate any hospitality operation.


Takeaways: 

  • Recognize that hospitality is about making people feel special and welcome, just as if they are guests in your own home.
  • Appoint a dedicated person to oversee employee wellness, ensuring that your team feels supported both personally and professionally.
  • Spend time interacting with both guests and employees. Regularly walk around the property to engage with your team and understand their daily challenges.
  • Organize monthly general manager's breakfasts or similar informal gatherings where employees from different functions can share ideas and feedback.
  • Implement programs like Employee of the Month, and consider equitable profit-sharing initiatives to incentivize the entire team.
  • Encourage staff to bring their personalities to their roles. Genuine interactions can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Implement comprehensive training programs focused on service culture development and provide opportunities for career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ The words are easy to say, we've got these values. What does it mean? What does it mean to deliver a value of caring?” - Robyn Pratt


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3270 In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Robyn Pratt, the General Manager of the Phoenicia Hotel in Malta and Principal of Impact Consulting Limited. Robyn shares her journey from her upbringing in Australia to becoming a leader in the hospitality industry. She elaborates on the importance of genuine employee engagement and shares her approach to creating a strong service culture that results in both happy employees and loyal guests. Robyn also discusses the unique aspects of Malta and how the island's rich history adds to the charm of the Phoenicia Hotel. This episode provides a deep dive into how authentic leadership and a passion for service can elevate any hospitality operation.


Takeaways: 

  • Recognize that hospitality is about making people feel special and welcome, just as if they are guests in your own home.
  • Appoint a dedicated person to oversee employee wellness, ensuring that your team feels supported both personally and professionally.
  • Spend time interacting with both guests and employees. Regularly walk around the property to engage with your team and understand their daily challenges.
  • Organize monthly general manager's breakfasts or similar informal gatherings where employees from different functions can share ideas and feedback.
  • Implement programs like Employee of the Month, and consider equitable profit-sharing initiatives to incentivize the entire team.
  • Encourage staff to bring their personalities to their roles. Genuine interactions can significantly enhance the guest experience.
  • Implement comprehensive training programs focused on service culture development and provide opportunities for career growth.


Quote of the Show:

“ The words are easy to say, we've got these values. What does it mean? What does it mean to deliver a value of caring?” - Robyn Pratt


Links:

Shout Outs:


🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Value-Driven Hospitality - Casey Lavin - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 184 184 184 Value-Driven Hospitality - Casey Lavin - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 184 full ca630f9d-c08b-419a-b2f8-f26b097dd77b https://share.transistor.fm/s/cc677485 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode, Dan Ryan explores the deeper significance of hospitality with guest Casey Lavin, President of Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC). They discuss the importance of culture, values, and intentionality in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the need for genuine care and empathy. Casey shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences in renowned establishments such as Ritz Carlton and Sea Island, and delves into BHC's vision and mission. The conversation highlights the transformational power of mindset, the role of intentional leadership, and the long-term impact of creating meaningful experiences in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate company values and vision into daily operations and communications to foster a purpose-driven culture.
  • Conduct daily huddles or lineups where at least 51% of the time is dedicated to discussing cultural and philosophical topics. Share core value stories, celebrate achievements, and remind the team of the larger purpose behind their work.
  • Make orientation sessions meaningful by integrating the company’s vision, mission, and values, and end with a strong call to action, confirming the new hires' commitment.
  • Regularly conduct colleague engagement surveys to gauge alignment with company values and gather feedback on areas for improvement.
  • Develop tools like a “Daily Intentions Card” for employees to keep, which includes the company’s vision, mission, values, and daily intentions.
  • Encourage a mindset of intentionality where every action and decision is aligned with the company’s purpose.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're going to achieve excellence and we're not going to stop until we get there. It might take 20 years, but if that is our goal, then let's be unrelenting in getting there.” - Casey Lavin


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode, Dan Ryan explores the deeper significance of hospitality with guest Casey Lavin, President of Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC). They discuss the importance of culture, values, and intentionality in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the need for genuine care and empathy. Casey shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences in renowned establishments such as Ritz Carlton and Sea Island, and delves into BHC's vision and mission. The conversation highlights the transformational power of mindset, the role of intentional leadership, and the long-term impact of creating meaningful experiences in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate company values and vision into daily operations and communications to foster a purpose-driven culture.
  • Conduct daily huddles or lineups where at least 51% of the time is dedicated to discussing cultural and philosophical topics. Share core value stories, celebrate achievements, and remind the team of the larger purpose behind their work.
  • Make orientation sessions meaningful by integrating the company’s vision, mission, and values, and end with a strong call to action, confirming the new hires' commitment.
  • Regularly conduct colleague engagement surveys to gauge alignment with company values and gather feedback on areas for improvement.
  • Develop tools like a “Daily Intentions Card” for employees to keep, which includes the company’s vision, mission, values, and daily intentions.
  • Encourage a mindset of intentionality where every action and decision is aligned with the company’s purpose.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're going to achieve excellence and we're not going to stop until we get there. It might take 20 years, but if that is our goal, then let's be unrelenting in getting there.” - Casey Lavin


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3603 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode, Dan Ryan explores the deeper significance of hospitality with guest Casey Lavin, President of Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC). They discuss the importance of culture, values, and intentionality in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the need for genuine care and empathy. Casey shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences in renowned establishments such as Ritz Carlton and Sea Island, and delves into BHC's vision and mission. The conversation highlights the transformational power of mindset, the role of intentional leadership, and the long-term impact of creating meaningful experiences in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Incorporate company values and vision into daily operations and communications to foster a purpose-driven culture.
  • Conduct daily huddles or lineups where at least 51% of the time is dedicated to discussing cultural and philosophical topics. Share core value stories, celebrate achievements, and remind the team of the larger purpose behind their work.
  • Make orientation sessions meaningful by integrating the company’s vision, mission, and values, and end with a strong call to action, confirming the new hires' commitment.
  • Regularly conduct colleague engagement surveys to gauge alignment with company values and gather feedback on areas for improvement.
  • Develop tools like a “Daily Intentions Card” for employees to keep, which includes the company’s vision, mission, values, and daily intentions.
  • Encourage a mindset of intentionality where every action and decision is aligned with the company’s purpose.


Quote of the Show:

“ We're going to achieve excellence and we're not going to stop until we get there. It might take 20 years, but if that is our goal, then let's be unrelenting in getting there.” - Casey Lavin


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Building Homes and Futures - Oscar Mejia - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 183 183 183 Building Homes and Futures - Oscar Mejia - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 183 full 2330e9f5-54be-4ee3-a268-624db42f0c77 https://share.transistor.fm/s/990eef8d 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan talks with Oscar Mejia, Co-Founder of Asociacion de Casas a Hogares (Houses to Homes) based in Antigua, Guatemala. The discussion delves into Oscar's background, his passion for improving housing, education, and healthcare for underprivileged communities, and the impactful work of his organization. Dan shares personal experiences from his and his family's hands-on volunteer work in Guatemala, emphasizing the themes of hospitality, shelter, and community service. The episode highlights the challenges and successes of building homes and running a school in a region with significant poverty, along with ways people can get involved.


Takeaways: 

  • Advocate for and participate in service projects like those organized by Houses to Homes. This can enhance social responsibility and create a positive impact.
  • Build partnerships with charities and nonprofits that align with your brand’s values, showing your commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
  • Encourage a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. This can lead to better team morale and productivity.
  • Gather and share stories from volunteers who have had positive and transformative experiences with your service projects. Use these testimonials to promote your initiatives and attract more support.
  • Develop efficient systems for handling materials and organizing volunteer groups. Well-organized projects make it easier for volunteers and enhance their overall experience.
  • Promote your initiatives and impact through robust social media campaigns and updates. This can help in raising awareness and attracting support globally.
  • Ensure that your service projects and hospitality services are inclusive, welcoming people from different backgrounds and religions, and reinforcing the universal appeal of hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“ One of the most important things is improving the living conditions of the people. It's the main goal for us for sure.” - Oscar Mejia


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan talks with Oscar Mejia, Co-Founder of Asociacion de Casas a Hogares (Houses to Homes) based in Antigua, Guatemala. The discussion delves into Oscar's background, his passion for improving housing, education, and healthcare for underprivileged communities, and the impactful work of his organization. Dan shares personal experiences from his and his family's hands-on volunteer work in Guatemala, emphasizing the themes of hospitality, shelter, and community service. The episode highlights the challenges and successes of building homes and running a school in a region with significant poverty, along with ways people can get involved.


Takeaways: 

  • Advocate for and participate in service projects like those organized by Houses to Homes. This can enhance social responsibility and create a positive impact.
  • Build partnerships with charities and nonprofits that align with your brand’s values, showing your commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
  • Encourage a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. This can lead to better team morale and productivity.
  • Gather and share stories from volunteers who have had positive and transformative experiences with your service projects. Use these testimonials to promote your initiatives and attract more support.
  • Develop efficient systems for handling materials and organizing volunteer groups. Well-organized projects make it easier for volunteers and enhance their overall experience.
  • Promote your initiatives and impact through robust social media campaigns and updates. This can help in raising awareness and attracting support globally.
  • Ensure that your service projects and hospitality services are inclusive, welcoming people from different backgrounds and religions, and reinforcing the universal appeal of hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“ One of the most important things is improving the living conditions of the people. It's the main goal for us for sure.” - Oscar Mejia


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3351 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 

In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan talks with Oscar Mejia, Co-Founder of Asociacion de Casas a Hogares (Houses to Homes) based in Antigua, Guatemala. The discussion delves into Oscar's background, his passion for improving housing, education, and healthcare for underprivileged communities, and the impactful work of his organization. Dan shares personal experiences from his and his family's hands-on volunteer work in Guatemala, emphasizing the themes of hospitality, shelter, and community service. The episode highlights the challenges and successes of building homes and running a school in a region with significant poverty, along with ways people can get involved.


Takeaways: 

  • Advocate for and participate in service projects like those organized by Houses to Homes. This can enhance social responsibility and create a positive impact.
  • Build partnerships with charities and nonprofits that align with your brand’s values, showing your commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
  • Encourage a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. This can lead to better team morale and productivity.
  • Gather and share stories from volunteers who have had positive and transformative experiences with your service projects. Use these testimonials to promote your initiatives and attract more support.
  • Develop efficient systems for handling materials and organizing volunteer groups. Well-organized projects make it easier for volunteers and enhance their overall experience.
  • Promote your initiatives and impact through robust social media campaigns and updates. This can help in raising awareness and attracting support globally.
  • Ensure that your service projects and hospitality services are inclusive, welcoming people from different backgrounds and religions, and reinforcing the universal appeal of hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

“ One of the most important things is improving the living conditions of the people. It's the main goal for us for sure.” - Oscar Mejia


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 182 182 182 Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 182 full 99185cf2-a70c-4f3d-bb69-3f72b8481900 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9e0b0e16 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan chats with Marc Bromley, Regional VP and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, D.C. The discussion delves into the essence of hospitality, nurturing a culture of care, and powerful leadership lessons from Marc's father, Stan Bromley, a legendary figure in the industry. Marc shares his path in hospitality, the importance of attention to detail, and balancing professional commitments with personal life. The conversation also covers recruitment strategies, maintaining high standards, and Marc's enthusiasm for what lies ahead for Four Seasons.


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.

Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan chats with Marc Bromley, Regional VP and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, D.C. The discussion delves into the essence of hospitality, nurturing a culture of care, and powerful leadership lessons from Marc's father, Stan Bromley, a legendary figure in the industry. Marc shares his path in hospitality, the importance of attention to detail, and balancing professional commitments with personal life. The conversation also covers recruitment strategies, maintaining high standards, and Marc's enthusiasm for what lies ahead for Four Seasons.


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.

Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Thu, 02 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2698 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In this episode of Defining Hospitality, host Dan Ryan chats with Marc Bromley, Regional VP and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, D.C. The discussion delves into the essence of hospitality, nurturing a culture of care, and powerful leadership lessons from Marc's father, Stan Bromley, a legendary figure in the industry. Marc shares his path in hospitality, the importance of attention to detail, and balancing professional commitments with personal life. The conversation also covers recruitment strategies, maintaining high standards, and Marc's enthusiasm for what lies ahead for Four Seasons.


Takeaways: 

  • Prioritize creating a culture of care within your organization. This means placing a high value on caring for employees first, which in turn enhances the customer experience.
  • Implement regular employee opinion surveys (at least twice a year) to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Take this feedback seriously and create action plans based on the results.
  • Emphasize the importance of attention to detail among your team. Lead by example and teach your team to notice and address small issues before they become big problems.
  • Provide your managers with opportunities to lead by ensuring they are the ones to address issues raised by senior leadership or general managers, rather than bypassing them.
  • Focus on hiring for will and training for skill. Invest in continuous training and development programs that align with your organizational culture.
  • Create a robust feedback mechanism where employees receive regular and constructive feedback. Recognize and reward good performance, and provide support and training where needed.
  • Encourage a work-life balance within your team. Promote wellness initiatives and ensure that employees do not burn out.

Quote of the Show:

“ Not to say we won't move heaven and earth and create legendary, world-class, luxurious, five-star experiences for our guests, but we openly declare that the employee comes first.” - Marc Bromley


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Creativity Outside the Comfort Zone - Dwayne MacEwen - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 181 181 181 Creativity Outside the Comfort Zone - Dwayne MacEwen - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 181 full 20c4b911-9e86-42e9-9ebd-0785a19a161a https://share.transistor.fm/s/33c3e1b7 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan Ryan hosts Dwayne MacEwen, a renowned architecture and design professional, and Founder and Principal of DMAC Architecture and Interiors. The conversation delves into Dwayne's journey from working at Jordan Moser to starting his own company. They discuss his innovative approach in the hospitality industry and explore his projects like the award-winning American Airlines lounge and unconventional methods—bending wire sculptures, carving topography models, and prioritizing intuitive design without heavy reliance on signage. The episode emphasizes the importance of creative processes, client relationships, and pushing the boundaries of traditional design.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach spaces with an outside-the-box mentality. Design shouldn't just meet the programmatic needs but also transcend and innovate beyond traditional expectations.
  • Personalize spaces using hospitality as a guiding principle, even if they fall outside traditional hospitality contexts (e.g., airport lounges, utility buildings).
  • Reduce dependence on signage by using materials and layouts that intuitively guide guests through spaces.
  • Engage deeply with client feedback and adapt designs accordingly—a close, collaborative approach can lead to unique and successful outcomes.
  • Trust and invest in the design process, from initial sketches to full-scale mockups. This can ensure a holistic, well-thought-out final product.
  • Small details, such as acoustics and material finishes, can significantly enhance the guest experience. Pay attention to elements that might not be obvious but improve the overall ambiance.
  • Be open to new challenges and projects outside your immediate expertise. This can lead to innovative solutions and broader experience.


Quote of the Show:

“ We succeeded at developing something really special by thinking outside of the box and applying hospitality to everything that we do.” - Dwayne MacEwen


Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan Ryan hosts Dwayne MacEwen, a renowned architecture and design professional, and Founder and Principal of DMAC Architecture and Interiors. The conversation delves into Dwayne's journey from working at Jordan Moser to starting his own company. They discuss his innovative approach in the hospitality industry and explore his projects like the award-winning American Airlines lounge and unconventional methods—bending wire sculptures, carving topography models, and prioritizing intuitive design without heavy reliance on signage. The episode emphasizes the importance of creative processes, client relationships, and pushing the boundaries of traditional design.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach spaces with an outside-the-box mentality. Design shouldn't just meet the programmatic needs but also transcend and innovate beyond traditional expectations.
  • Personalize spaces using hospitality as a guiding principle, even if they fall outside traditional hospitality contexts (e.g., airport lounges, utility buildings).
  • Reduce dependence on signage by using materials and layouts that intuitively guide guests through spaces.
  • Engage deeply with client feedback and adapt designs accordingly—a close, collaborative approach can lead to unique and successful outcomes.
  • Trust and invest in the design process, from initial sketches to full-scale mockups. This can ensure a holistic, well-thought-out final product.
  • Small details, such as acoustics and material finishes, can significantly enhance the guest experience. Pay attention to elements that might not be obvious but improve the overall ambiance.
  • Be open to new challenges and projects outside your immediate expertise. This can lead to innovative solutions and broader experience.


Quote of the Show:

“ We succeeded at developing something really special by thinking outside of the box and applying hospitality to everything that we do.” - Dwayne MacEwen


Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3680 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan Ryan hosts Dwayne MacEwen, a renowned architecture and design professional, and Founder and Principal of DMAC Architecture and Interiors. The conversation delves into Dwayne's journey from working at Jordan Moser to starting his own company. They discuss his innovative approach in the hospitality industry and explore his projects like the award-winning American Airlines lounge and unconventional methods—bending wire sculptures, carving topography models, and prioritizing intuitive design without heavy reliance on signage. The episode emphasizes the importance of creative processes, client relationships, and pushing the boundaries of traditional design.


Takeaways: 

  • Approach spaces with an outside-the-box mentality. Design shouldn't just meet the programmatic needs but also transcend and innovate beyond traditional expectations.
  • Personalize spaces using hospitality as a guiding principle, even if they fall outside traditional hospitality contexts (e.g., airport lounges, utility buildings).
  • Reduce dependence on signage by using materials and layouts that intuitively guide guests through spaces.
  • Engage deeply with client feedback and adapt designs accordingly—a close, collaborative approach can lead to unique and successful outcomes.
  • Trust and invest in the design process, from initial sketches to full-scale mockups. This can ensure a holistic, well-thought-out final product.
  • Small details, such as acoustics and material finishes, can significantly enhance the guest experience. Pay attention to elements that might not be obvious but improve the overall ambiance.
  • Be open to new challenges and projects outside your immediate expertise. This can lead to innovative solutions and broader experience.


Quote of the Show:

“ We succeeded at developing something really special by thinking outside of the box and applying hospitality to everything that we do.” - Dwayne MacEwen


Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Building More Than Hotels - Ashley Ewing Parrott - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 180 180 180 Building More Than Hotels - Ashley Ewing Parrott - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 180 full df58486b-d160-4c8c-b599-5429907cacc9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9737540d 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ewing Parrott, Founder and Principal Creative Director at AEP Hospitality Consulting and Co-Founder of The Saturday Crowd. The discussion delves into how Ashley's creative direction and strategic insights have helped transform the hospitality industry. They explore what hospitality truly means, the importance of branding, and how a well-crafted guest experience can drive revenue. Ashley shares her journey from her early aspirations to her current success in creating award-winning hospitality experiences like The Wayback in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. They also discuss the role of big brands in independent hotels and the delicate balance between maintaining unique guest experiences and leveraging corporate support.


Takeaways: 

  • Get crystal clear on the client's vision and goals for the project at the beginning. Use creative exercises such as mood boards to align on aesthetics and objectives.
  • Choose team members who are uniquely suited for the project. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach and instead match the project's needs with the team's strengths.
  • Elevate guest experience to be on par with other critical factors like budget and schedule.
  • Bring in branding experts early in the process to ensure the property has character and depth. Late integration of branding can result in a soulless, two-dimensional product.
  • For soft-branded properties affiliated with larger hotel chains, maintain brand-specific uniqueness while meeting essential standards like cleanliness and functional operational metrics.
  • Create a compelling narrative around the property, from design elements to guest services. This helps set the property apart and attract a targeted audience.
  • Utilize the positive feedback and loyalty programs from affiliated brands to boost occupancy while maintaining high ADRs through distinctive brand elements.

Quote of the Show:

“People are craving and then are subsequently willing to pay for connection, feeling connected to something.” - Ashley Ewing Parrott


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ewing Parrott, Founder and Principal Creative Director at AEP Hospitality Consulting and Co-Founder of The Saturday Crowd. The discussion delves into how Ashley's creative direction and strategic insights have helped transform the hospitality industry. They explore what hospitality truly means, the importance of branding, and how a well-crafted guest experience can drive revenue. Ashley shares her journey from her early aspirations to her current success in creating award-winning hospitality experiences like The Wayback in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. They also discuss the role of big brands in independent hotels and the delicate balance between maintaining unique guest experiences and leveraging corporate support.


Takeaways: 

  • Get crystal clear on the client's vision and goals for the project at the beginning. Use creative exercises such as mood boards to align on aesthetics and objectives.
  • Choose team members who are uniquely suited for the project. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach and instead match the project's needs with the team's strengths.
  • Elevate guest experience to be on par with other critical factors like budget and schedule.
  • Bring in branding experts early in the process to ensure the property has character and depth. Late integration of branding can result in a soulless, two-dimensional product.
  • For soft-branded properties affiliated with larger hotel chains, maintain brand-specific uniqueness while meeting essential standards like cleanliness and functional operational metrics.
  • Create a compelling narrative around the property, from design elements to guest services. This helps set the property apart and attract a targeted audience.
  • Utilize the positive feedback and loyalty programs from affiliated brands to boost occupancy while maintaining high ADRs through distinctive brand elements.

Quote of the Show:

“People are craving and then are subsequently willing to pay for connection, feeling connected to something.” - Ashley Ewing Parrott


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3343 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ewing Parrott, Founder and Principal Creative Director at AEP Hospitality Consulting and Co-Founder of The Saturday Crowd. The discussion delves into how Ashley's creative direction and strategic insights have helped transform the hospitality industry. They explore what hospitality truly means, the importance of branding, and how a well-crafted guest experience can drive revenue. Ashley shares her journey from her early aspirations to her current success in creating award-winning hospitality experiences like The Wayback in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. They also discuss the role of big brands in independent hotels and the delicate balance between maintaining unique guest experiences and leveraging corporate support.


Takeaways: 

  • Get crystal clear on the client's vision and goals for the project at the beginning. Use creative exercises such as mood boards to align on aesthetics and objectives.
  • Choose team members who are uniquely suited for the project. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach and instead match the project's needs with the team's strengths.
  • Elevate guest experience to be on par with other critical factors like budget and schedule.
  • Bring in branding experts early in the process to ensure the property has character and depth. Late integration of branding can result in a soulless, two-dimensional product.
  • For soft-branded properties affiliated with larger hotel chains, maintain brand-specific uniqueness while meeting essential standards like cleanliness and functional operational metrics.
  • Create a compelling narrative around the property, from design elements to guest services. This helps set the property apart and attract a targeted audience.
  • Utilize the positive feedback and loyalty programs from affiliated brands to boost occupancy while maintaining high ADRs through distinctive brand elements.

Quote of the Show:

“People are craving and then are subsequently willing to pay for connection, feeling connected to something.” - Ashley Ewing Parrott


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Meet, Greet, Treat - Eliza Pesuit - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 179 179 179 Meet, Greet, Treat - Eliza Pesuit - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 179 full ffef505c-1d94-4056-b219-2ee82e823780 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9174a359 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Eliza Pesuit, the Founder and CEO of Global Glimpse. Eliza discusses her journey in reimagining travel and how it can serve as a powerful educational tool for high school students. With over 15 years of commitment to equity and access, Global Glimpse has provided transformative travel experiences to thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds. Eliza shares her insights into the profound impact of travel on youth development, the importance of hospitality, and the hurdles of fundraising and forming corporate partnerships. Highlighting success stories and aspirations for future collaborations, this conversation sheds light on the organization's mission to bridge divides and create connections through authentic travel experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and communicating the "why" behind your work can inspire teams and stakeholders. Follow through the passion and remain dedicated to the mission.
  • Leverage existing networks and engage with potential partners consistently, even if it means facing multiple rejections.
  • Incorporate empathy, agency, and global perspective into organizational goals and metrics.
  • Be transparent about how funds are used and the impact they create. Share stories and data to build trust and demonstrate the long-term value of the organization's efforts.
  • Though technology is essential, recognize situations where tech-free environments can enhance interpersonal connections and learning.
  • Support and partner with brands that share your organization's values. This can enhance credibility and loyalty internally and externally.

Quote of the Show:

“In great difference and dissonance, tremendous love and the most powerful growth can exist.” - Eliza Pesuit


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Eliza Pesuit, the Founder and CEO of Global Glimpse. Eliza discusses her journey in reimagining travel and how it can serve as a powerful educational tool for high school students. With over 15 years of commitment to equity and access, Global Glimpse has provided transformative travel experiences to thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds. Eliza shares her insights into the profound impact of travel on youth development, the importance of hospitality, and the hurdles of fundraising and forming corporate partnerships. Highlighting success stories and aspirations for future collaborations, this conversation sheds light on the organization's mission to bridge divides and create connections through authentic travel experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and communicating the "why" behind your work can inspire teams and stakeholders. Follow through the passion and remain dedicated to the mission.
  • Leverage existing networks and engage with potential partners consistently, even if it means facing multiple rejections.
  • Incorporate empathy, agency, and global perspective into organizational goals and metrics.
  • Be transparent about how funds are used and the impact they create. Share stories and data to build trust and demonstrate the long-term value of the organization's efforts.
  • Though technology is essential, recognize situations where tech-free environments can enhance interpersonal connections and learning.
  • Support and partner with brands that share your organization's values. This can enhance credibility and loyalty internally and externally.

Quote of the Show:

“In great difference and dissonance, tremendous love and the most powerful growth can exist.” - Eliza Pesuit


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3521 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


In today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Eliza Pesuit, the Founder and CEO of Global Glimpse. Eliza discusses her journey in reimagining travel and how it can serve as a powerful educational tool for high school students. With over 15 years of commitment to equity and access, Global Glimpse has provided transformative travel experiences to thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds. Eliza shares her insights into the profound impact of travel on youth development, the importance of hospitality, and the hurdles of fundraising and forming corporate partnerships. Highlighting success stories and aspirations for future collaborations, this conversation sheds light on the organization's mission to bridge divides and create connections through authentic travel experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Understanding and communicating the "why" behind your work can inspire teams and stakeholders. Follow through the passion and remain dedicated to the mission.
  • Leverage existing networks and engage with potential partners consistently, even if it means facing multiple rejections.
  • Incorporate empathy, agency, and global perspective into organizational goals and metrics.
  • Be transparent about how funds are used and the impact they create. Share stories and data to build trust and demonstrate the long-term value of the organization's efforts.
  • Though technology is essential, recognize situations where tech-free environments can enhance interpersonal connections and learning.
  • Support and partner with brands that share your organization's values. This can enhance credibility and loyalty internally and externally.

Quote of the Show:

“In great difference and dissonance, tremendous love and the most powerful growth can exist.” - Eliza Pesuit


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt The Science of Design - Matthew Goodrich - Defining Hospitality - Episode #178 178 178 The Science of Design - Matthew Goodrich - Defining Hospitality - Episode #178 full 49888812-927d-4403-9e9f-392c44968142 https://share.transistor.fm/s/65166bf5 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan explores hospitality design with Matthew Goodrich, an acclaimed interior designer and strategist. They dive into Goodrich's journey from his art background to founding his own firm, Goodrich, seven years ago. The conversation touches on recent projects, including a jazz bar he designed, the UBS Arena, and lessons learned from renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer. Goodrich explains his 'Design Foundation' framework, focusing on the elimination of awkwardness and fostering human connection in hospitality spaces. He also reflects on his mentors, the collaborative nature of design, and how life experiences inform his work.


Takeaways: 

  • When starting a project, particularly in a new area, approach it with humility. Be upfront about what you don't know and actively listen to your clients and stakeholders to understand their needs deeply.
  • Implement a structured framework or design foundation in your projects. This involves categorizing the project's inspirations or guiding principles into specific areas.
  • Strive to create environments and experiences that eliminate awkwardness. This can be applied in both physical spaces and during client interactions, ensuring that all processes are smooth and intuitive.
  • Conduct thorough research on the project's context and its historical, cultural, and location-based significance. This helps in creating designs that are timeless and resonate well with the intended audience.
  • Foster a collaborative environment where input from various team members and stakeholders is valued. This helps bring in diverse perspectives and enriches the design process.
  • Consider revisiting and refreshing designs periodically. This helps keep the projects relevant and aligned with evolving market needs and user behaviors. 
  • Encourage a flat organizational structure in your team where everyone can contribute ideas.


Quote of the Show:

“The highest and best that we can bring to a client is to help them imagine something that they couldn't on their own.” - Matthew Goodrich


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan explores hospitality design with Matthew Goodrich, an acclaimed interior designer and strategist. They dive into Goodrich's journey from his art background to founding his own firm, Goodrich, seven years ago. The conversation touches on recent projects, including a jazz bar he designed, the UBS Arena, and lessons learned from renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer. Goodrich explains his 'Design Foundation' framework, focusing on the elimination of awkwardness and fostering human connection in hospitality spaces. He also reflects on his mentors, the collaborative nature of design, and how life experiences inform his work.


Takeaways: 

  • When starting a project, particularly in a new area, approach it with humility. Be upfront about what you don't know and actively listen to your clients and stakeholders to understand their needs deeply.
  • Implement a structured framework or design foundation in your projects. This involves categorizing the project's inspirations or guiding principles into specific areas.
  • Strive to create environments and experiences that eliminate awkwardness. This can be applied in both physical spaces and during client interactions, ensuring that all processes are smooth and intuitive.
  • Conduct thorough research on the project's context and its historical, cultural, and location-based significance. This helps in creating designs that are timeless and resonate well with the intended audience.
  • Foster a collaborative environment where input from various team members and stakeholders is valued. This helps bring in diverse perspectives and enriches the design process.
  • Consider revisiting and refreshing designs periodically. This helps keep the projects relevant and aligned with evolving market needs and user behaviors. 
  • Encourage a flat organizational structure in your team where everyone can contribute ideas.


Quote of the Show:

“The highest and best that we can bring to a client is to help them imagine something that they couldn't on their own.” - Matthew Goodrich


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4344 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, Dan explores hospitality design with Matthew Goodrich, an acclaimed interior designer and strategist. They dive into Goodrich's journey from his art background to founding his own firm, Goodrich, seven years ago. The conversation touches on recent projects, including a jazz bar he designed, the UBS Arena, and lessons learned from renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer. Goodrich explains his 'Design Foundation' framework, focusing on the elimination of awkwardness and fostering human connection in hospitality spaces. He also reflects on his mentors, the collaborative nature of design, and how life experiences inform his work.


Takeaways: 

  • When starting a project, particularly in a new area, approach it with humility. Be upfront about what you don't know and actively listen to your clients and stakeholders to understand their needs deeply.
  • Implement a structured framework or design foundation in your projects. This involves categorizing the project's inspirations or guiding principles into specific areas.
  • Strive to create environments and experiences that eliminate awkwardness. This can be applied in both physical spaces and during client interactions, ensuring that all processes are smooth and intuitive.
  • Conduct thorough research on the project's context and its historical, cultural, and location-based significance. This helps in creating designs that are timeless and resonate well with the intended audience.
  • Foster a collaborative environment where input from various team members and stakeholders is valued. This helps bring in diverse perspectives and enriches the design process.
  • Consider revisiting and refreshing designs periodically. This helps keep the projects relevant and aligned with evolving market needs and user behaviors. 
  • Encourage a flat organizational structure in your team where everyone can contribute ideas.


Quote of the Show:

“The highest and best that we can bring to a client is to help them imagine something that they couldn't on their own.” - Matthew Goodrich


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Doorways to Branding Success - Bonnie Campagnuolo - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 177 177 177 Doorways to Branding Success - Bonnie Campagnuolo - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 177 full ac24bd38-08fa-4ac1-a766-814b8ccaa40d https://share.transistor.fm/s/c344dfd8 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, host Dan Ryan sits down with Bonnie Campagnuolo, Brand Leader of Embassy Suites by Hilton. The discussion follows the intricacies of hospitality, brand strategy, and evolving customer needs. Bonnie shares her journey from advertising to hospitality, her insights on brand evolution, and the importance of creating a guest-centric experience. They explore Embassy Suites' recent design changes, the importance of model rooms, and integrating technology in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace the need for brand evolution or revolution based on market demands and guest needs.
  • Regularly gather and incorporate feedback from guests on room functionality and amenities.
  • Ensure key stakeholders, including housekeeping and operational teams, have input in the design process.
  • Conduct extensive research via surveys, focus groups, and in-room studies to understand guest behaviors and unmet needs. Ask guests how they use space and what features are most important to them.
  • Allow owners flexibility in design, while also ensuring brand consistency.
  • Experiment with new technologies to improve guest experience as well as operational efficiency.
  • Be open to career moves that might seem non-linear but can provide valuable experiences and insights. Avoid limiting beliefs in yourself and your abilities.

Quote of the Show:

“Make decisions that leave doors open, not ones that close doors. Be open, work on different clients, learn different types of business.” - Bonnie Campagnuolo


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, host Dan Ryan sits down with Bonnie Campagnuolo, Brand Leader of Embassy Suites by Hilton. The discussion follows the intricacies of hospitality, brand strategy, and evolving customer needs. Bonnie shares her journey from advertising to hospitality, her insights on brand evolution, and the importance of creating a guest-centric experience. They explore Embassy Suites' recent design changes, the importance of model rooms, and integrating technology in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace the need for brand evolution or revolution based on market demands and guest needs.
  • Regularly gather and incorporate feedback from guests on room functionality and amenities.
  • Ensure key stakeholders, including housekeeping and operational teams, have input in the design process.
  • Conduct extensive research via surveys, focus groups, and in-room studies to understand guest behaviors and unmet needs. Ask guests how they use space and what features are most important to them.
  • Allow owners flexibility in design, while also ensuring brand consistency.
  • Experiment with new technologies to improve guest experience as well as operational efficiency.
  • Be open to career moves that might seem non-linear but can provide valuable experiences and insights. Avoid limiting beliefs in yourself and your abilities.

Quote of the Show:

“Make decisions that leave doors open, not ones that close doors. Be open, work on different clients, learn different types of business.” - Bonnie Campagnuolo


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:21:13 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3332 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today, host Dan Ryan sits down with Bonnie Campagnuolo, Brand Leader of Embassy Suites by Hilton. The discussion follows the intricacies of hospitality, brand strategy, and evolving customer needs. Bonnie shares her journey from advertising to hospitality, her insights on brand evolution, and the importance of creating a guest-centric experience. They explore Embassy Suites' recent design changes, the importance of model rooms, and integrating technology in hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • Embrace the need for brand evolution or revolution based on market demands and guest needs.
  • Regularly gather and incorporate feedback from guests on room functionality and amenities.
  • Ensure key stakeholders, including housekeeping and operational teams, have input in the design process.
  • Conduct extensive research via surveys, focus groups, and in-room studies to understand guest behaviors and unmet needs. Ask guests how they use space and what features are most important to them.
  • Allow owners flexibility in design, while also ensuring brand consistency.
  • Experiment with new technologies to improve guest experience as well as operational efficiency.
  • Be open to career moves that might seem non-linear but can provide valuable experiences and insights. Avoid limiting beliefs in yourself and your abilities.

Quote of the Show:

“Make decisions that leave doors open, not ones that close doors. Be open, work on different clients, learn different types of business.” - Bonnie Campagnuolo


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Purchasing with Purpose - Áine O’Connor - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 176 176 176 Purchasing with Purpose - Áine O’Connor - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 176 full a12fd699-3481-4df4-9502-f8651909e27a https://share.transistor.fm/s/2ad19f87 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today Dan Ryan welcomes Áine O'Connor, President of the International Society of Hospitality Purchasers (ISHP) and Founder of AOC Purchasing LLC. Áine shares her extensive experience in the hospitality industry from working across the globe in project management, budgeting, and procurement. She delves into her journey to entrepreneurship, balancing work and family life, and the critical issue of human trafficking awareness within hospitality. This episode explores the importance of relationships, collaboration, and passion for quality in the built environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on building strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with all project stakeholders including developers, designers, contractors, and vendors.
  • Regularly check in with yourself to assess stress levels and ensure you aren’t taking on more than you can handle.
  • Approach every project with a solution-oriented mindset, being open to others' input and working together to overcome challenges.
  • Get involved in industry organizations for networking, skill development, and potential leadership opportunities.
  • Stay open to learning new processes and understanding the rationales behind certain project decisions to improve your effectiveness.
  • Understand that it is okay to admit when something is too much and take steps to delegate or adjust responsibilities accordingly.
  • Support initiatives and training programs that address broader social issues, such as human trafficking, to make a positive impact within the industry and beyond.

Quote of the Show: “I never don't want to work. I never don't want to be in this industry. I love it. I'm passionate about it, but it's a balance.” - Áine O’Connor


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today Dan Ryan welcomes Áine O'Connor, President of the International Society of Hospitality Purchasers (ISHP) and Founder of AOC Purchasing LLC. Áine shares her extensive experience in the hospitality industry from working across the globe in project management, budgeting, and procurement. She delves into her journey to entrepreneurship, balancing work and family life, and the critical issue of human trafficking awareness within hospitality. This episode explores the importance of relationships, collaboration, and passion for quality in the built environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on building strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with all project stakeholders including developers, designers, contractors, and vendors.
  • Regularly check in with yourself to assess stress levels and ensure you aren’t taking on more than you can handle.
  • Approach every project with a solution-oriented mindset, being open to others' input and working together to overcome challenges.
  • Get involved in industry organizations for networking, skill development, and potential leadership opportunities.
  • Stay open to learning new processes and understanding the rationales behind certain project decisions to improve your effectiveness.
  • Understand that it is okay to admit when something is too much and take steps to delegate or adjust responsibilities accordingly.
  • Support initiatives and training programs that address broader social issues, such as human trafficking, to make a positive impact within the industry and beyond.

Quote of the Show: “I never don't want to work. I never don't want to be in this industry. I love it. I'm passionate about it, but it's a balance.” - Áine O’Connor


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3287 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ 


Today Dan Ryan welcomes Áine O'Connor, President of the International Society of Hospitality Purchasers (ISHP) and Founder of AOC Purchasing LLC. Áine shares her extensive experience in the hospitality industry from working across the globe in project management, budgeting, and procurement. She delves into her journey to entrepreneurship, balancing work and family life, and the critical issue of human trafficking awareness within hospitality. This episode explores the importance of relationships, collaboration, and passion for quality in the built environment.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on building strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with all project stakeholders including developers, designers, contractors, and vendors.
  • Regularly check in with yourself to assess stress levels and ensure you aren’t taking on more than you can handle.
  • Approach every project with a solution-oriented mindset, being open to others' input and working together to overcome challenges.
  • Get involved in industry organizations for networking, skill development, and potential leadership opportunities.
  • Stay open to learning new processes and understanding the rationales behind certain project decisions to improve your effectiveness.
  • Understand that it is okay to admit when something is too much and take steps to delegate or adjust responsibilities accordingly.
  • Support initiatives and training programs that address broader social issues, such as human trafficking, to make a positive impact within the industry and beyond.

Quote of the Show: “I never don't want to work. I never don't want to be in this industry. I love it. I'm passionate about it, but it's a balance.” - Áine O’Connor


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Pioneering a Stand Alone Vision - Mary Alice Palmer - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 175 175 175 Pioneering a Stand Alone Vision - Mary Alice Palmer - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 175 full 72c81f6b-7c8a-41af-bf97-414bec27ebae https://share.transistor.fm/s/10b8222e In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan meets with Mary Alice Palmer, the Global Creative Director and Founding Principal at ROAM Interior Design. The conversation focuses on the innovative decision by HKS to spin out ROAM as a standalone design firm. Mary Alice shares insights into her career, mentorship influences, and the strategic considerations behind the successful rebranding and growth of ROAM. The discussion also highlights how this unique approach brings new value to the firm and attracts top industry talent.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on developing a high-quality portfolio that showcases your team's abilities and success stories. A great portfolio can generate positive reactions and open new opportunities.
  • Develop a comprehensive business case and clearly articulate the value of any proposed change. Use data and strategic insights to back up your vision.
  • Encourage initiatives that push the boundaries of traditional business models. Be open to radical ideas that might initially seem counterintuitive.
  • Work with external consultants or brand strategists to gain fresh perspectives and objective insights that can help make a compelling argument for change.
  • Understand that markets and team dynamics evolve. Be flexible and willing to modify strategies as necessary to stay aligned with market demands and internal goals.
  • Support your team's development through mentoring, training, and continuous learning opportunities. Empower senior-level employees and keep them engaged with challenging projects.
  • Publicize your successes both internally and externally. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team to boost morale and attract new talent.

Quote of the Show: 

“I've been down many roads in my career. I'm attracted to things that keep me curious and keep me excited and keep me feeling like I'm on an adventure.” - Mary Alice Palmer


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan meets with Mary Alice Palmer, the Global Creative Director and Founding Principal at ROAM Interior Design. The conversation focuses on the innovative decision by HKS to spin out ROAM as a standalone design firm. Mary Alice shares insights into her career, mentorship influences, and the strategic considerations behind the successful rebranding and growth of ROAM. The discussion also highlights how this unique approach brings new value to the firm and attracts top industry talent.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on developing a high-quality portfolio that showcases your team's abilities and success stories. A great portfolio can generate positive reactions and open new opportunities.
  • Develop a comprehensive business case and clearly articulate the value of any proposed change. Use data and strategic insights to back up your vision.
  • Encourage initiatives that push the boundaries of traditional business models. Be open to radical ideas that might initially seem counterintuitive.
  • Work with external consultants or brand strategists to gain fresh perspectives and objective insights that can help make a compelling argument for change.
  • Understand that markets and team dynamics evolve. Be flexible and willing to modify strategies as necessary to stay aligned with market demands and internal goals.
  • Support your team's development through mentoring, training, and continuous learning opportunities. Empower senior-level employees and keep them engaged with challenging projects.
  • Publicize your successes both internally and externally. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team to boost morale and attract new talent.

Quote of the Show: 

“I've been down many roads in my career. I'm attracted to things that keep me curious and keep me excited and keep me feeling like I'm on an adventure.” - Mary Alice Palmer


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 30 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3076 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan meets with Mary Alice Palmer, the Global Creative Director and Founding Principal at ROAM Interior Design. The conversation focuses on the innovative decision by HKS to spin out ROAM as a standalone design firm. Mary Alice shares insights into her career, mentorship influences, and the strategic considerations behind the successful rebranding and growth of ROAM. The discussion also highlights how this unique approach brings new value to the firm and attracts top industry talent.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on developing a high-quality portfolio that showcases your team's abilities and success stories. A great portfolio can generate positive reactions and open new opportunities.
  • Develop a comprehensive business case and clearly articulate the value of any proposed change. Use data and strategic insights to back up your vision.
  • Encourage initiatives that push the boundaries of traditional business models. Be open to radical ideas that might initially seem counterintuitive.
  • Work with external consultants or brand strategists to gain fresh perspectives and objective insights that can help make a compelling argument for change.
  • Understand that markets and team dynamics evolve. Be flexible and willing to modify strategies as necessary to stay aligned with market demands and internal goals.
  • Support your team's development through mentoring, training, and continuous learning opportunities. Empower senior-level employees and keep them engaged with challenging projects.
  • Publicize your successes both internally and externally. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team to boost morale and attract new talent.

Quote of the Show: 

“I've been down many roads in my career. I'm attracted to things that keep me curious and keep me excited and keep me feeling like I'm on an adventure.” - Mary Alice Palmer


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Hospitality Beyond Four Walls - Paul McElroy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 174 174 174 Hospitality Beyond Four Walls - Paul McElroy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 174 full ccdf1ae9-54d0-441d-823d-00d6301279f9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/35509357 Dan welcomes Paul McElroy, Executive Vice President of Design and Construction at Lucid, Highgate’s in-house design studio, onto today’s episode where they dive into the transformative power of sustainability within the hospitality industry. Paul emphasizes the critical role of small changes and conversations, the significance of detailed project management, and the impactful lessons learned from challenging construction projects. The conversation conveys how vulnerability and resilience shape professional approaches and industry-wide improvements. The duo also explores how pioneering figures and companies are integrating sustainable practices, stressing the necessity of these efforts to become standard operations due to regulatory and market pressures. 


Takeaways: 

  • Embedding sustainability into projects from the kickoff meeting ensures that objectives are clear and incorporated into the workflow from the beginning.
  • Integrate sustainability metrics and waste management plans into RFP processes to ensure accountability and commitment from contractors and vendors from the start.
  • Show up with authenticity and vulnerability. This approach breaks down barriers and builds stronger, more genuine relationships with peers and partners.
  • Set clear, audacious goals and communicate the “why” behind initiatives. This helps to align and motivate teams around shared objectives.
  • Work collaboratively with contractors and vendors, bringing them on the journey rather than dictating from above. Understanding their challenges and working together to solve them can result in more sustainable and feasible solutions.
  • Recognize and utilize the power of collective effort. Mobilize your organization and partners to join in the sustainable mission, thereby amplifying the impact.
  • Be open to changing course based on what you learn along the way. Healthy friction and iterative improvements can lead to significant advances in sustainability practices.

Quote of the Show:

“It's very important that a hotel exhibits extreme hospitality to their guests, but I think hospitality extends way beyond the four walls of a hotel.” - Paul McElroy


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Dan welcomes Paul McElroy, Executive Vice President of Design and Construction at Lucid, Highgate’s in-house design studio, onto today’s episode where they dive into the transformative power of sustainability within the hospitality industry. Paul emphasizes the critical role of small changes and conversations, the significance of detailed project management, and the impactful lessons learned from challenging construction projects. The conversation conveys how vulnerability and resilience shape professional approaches and industry-wide improvements. The duo also explores how pioneering figures and companies are integrating sustainable practices, stressing the necessity of these efforts to become standard operations due to regulatory and market pressures. 


Takeaways: 

  • Embedding sustainability into projects from the kickoff meeting ensures that objectives are clear and incorporated into the workflow from the beginning.
  • Integrate sustainability metrics and waste management plans into RFP processes to ensure accountability and commitment from contractors and vendors from the start.
  • Show up with authenticity and vulnerability. This approach breaks down barriers and builds stronger, more genuine relationships with peers and partners.
  • Set clear, audacious goals and communicate the “why” behind initiatives. This helps to align and motivate teams around shared objectives.
  • Work collaboratively with contractors and vendors, bringing them on the journey rather than dictating from above. Understanding their challenges and working together to solve them can result in more sustainable and feasible solutions.
  • Recognize and utilize the power of collective effort. Mobilize your organization and partners to join in the sustainable mission, thereby amplifying the impact.
  • Be open to changing course based on what you learn along the way. Healthy friction and iterative improvements can lead to significant advances in sustainability practices.

Quote of the Show:

“It's very important that a hotel exhibits extreme hospitality to their guests, but I think hospitality extends way beyond the four walls of a hotel.” - Paul McElroy


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4008 Dan welcomes Paul McElroy, Executive Vice President of Design and Construction at Lucid, Highgate’s in-house design studio, onto today’s episode where they dive into the transformative power of sustainability within the hospitality industry. Paul emphasizes the critical role of small changes and conversations, the significance of detailed project management, and the impactful lessons learned from challenging construction projects. The conversation conveys how vulnerability and resilience shape professional approaches and industry-wide improvements. The duo also explores how pioneering figures and companies are integrating sustainable practices, stressing the necessity of these efforts to become standard operations due to regulatory and market pressures. 


Takeaways: 

  • Embedding sustainability into projects from the kickoff meeting ensures that objectives are clear and incorporated into the workflow from the beginning.
  • Integrate sustainability metrics and waste management plans into RFP processes to ensure accountability and commitment from contractors and vendors from the start.
  • Show up with authenticity and vulnerability. This approach breaks down barriers and builds stronger, more genuine relationships with peers and partners.
  • Set clear, audacious goals and communicate the “why” behind initiatives. This helps to align and motivate teams around shared objectives.
  • Work collaboratively with contractors and vendors, bringing them on the journey rather than dictating from above. Understanding their challenges and working together to solve them can result in more sustainable and feasible solutions.
  • Recognize and utilize the power of collective effort. Mobilize your organization and partners to join in the sustainable mission, thereby amplifying the impact.
  • Be open to changing course based on what you learn along the way. Healthy friction and iterative improvements can lead to significant advances in sustainability practices.

Quote of the Show:

“It's very important that a hotel exhibits extreme hospitality to their guests, but I think hospitality extends way beyond the four walls of a hotel.” - Paul McElroy


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Small But Mighty Hospitality - Sonja Haviland/Haley Mistler - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 173 173 173 Small But Mighty Hospitality - Sonja Haviland/Haley Mistler - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 173 full 304fe688-ecff-4bc1-ac91-e4e0bb730992 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2b79f765 In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Sonja Haviland and Haley Mistler, Co-Founders of Superette Studio. They discuss their six-year journey in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key projects such as the Napa Valley Lodge and The Lodge at Bodega Bay, the latter of which was awarded Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice - Best Hotel in the World. The duo shares insights on entrepreneurship, their definition of hospitality as the art of making people feel like they belong, and the importance of creative networks. They also touch upon the significance of trust and communication in their partnership, showcasing their nimble and hands-on approach to design and project management. This episode provides valuable guidance for budding entrepreneurs in the design world, emphasizing the synergy between branding and interiors in creating welcoming experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Engage in spaces where you can have unexpected collisions with other professionals, such as creative hubs or co-working spaces.
  • Consider working with a career or business coach to help navigate difficult conversations and improve teamwork.
  • Perform a vibe check, financial check, and gut check before engaging with new clients. Remember that maintaining a comfortable and positive relationship with clients is crucial.
  • When working on projects, think about the small details that enhance user experience, such as intuitive layout, placement of switches, and durability of materials.
  • Continuously learn and embrace new roles and responsibilities within your business as it grows.
  • Produce and showcase the type of work you want to attract; what you do now is what you will continue to bring in for work.
  • Starting small can be advantageous. Focus on your strengths and expertise before scaling.

Quote of the Show: 

“So much of being successful and being able to grow and learn and evolve is surrounding yourself with people who are in a similar position.” - Haley Mistler


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Sonja Haviland and Haley Mistler, Co-Founders of Superette Studio. They discuss their six-year journey in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key projects such as the Napa Valley Lodge and The Lodge at Bodega Bay, the latter of which was awarded Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice - Best Hotel in the World. The duo shares insights on entrepreneurship, their definition of hospitality as the art of making people feel like they belong, and the importance of creative networks. They also touch upon the significance of trust and communication in their partnership, showcasing their nimble and hands-on approach to design and project management. This episode provides valuable guidance for budding entrepreneurs in the design world, emphasizing the synergy between branding and interiors in creating welcoming experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Engage in spaces where you can have unexpected collisions with other professionals, such as creative hubs or co-working spaces.
  • Consider working with a career or business coach to help navigate difficult conversations and improve teamwork.
  • Perform a vibe check, financial check, and gut check before engaging with new clients. Remember that maintaining a comfortable and positive relationship with clients is crucial.
  • When working on projects, think about the small details that enhance user experience, such as intuitive layout, placement of switches, and durability of materials.
  • Continuously learn and embrace new roles and responsibilities within your business as it grows.
  • Produce and showcase the type of work you want to attract; what you do now is what you will continue to bring in for work.
  • Starting small can be advantageous. Focus on your strengths and expertise before scaling.

Quote of the Show: 

“So much of being successful and being able to grow and learn and evolve is surrounding yourself with people who are in a similar position.” - Haley Mistler


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3221 In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Sonja Haviland and Haley Mistler, Co-Founders of Superette Studio. They discuss their six-year journey in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key projects such as the Napa Valley Lodge and The Lodge at Bodega Bay, the latter of which was awarded Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice - Best Hotel in the World. The duo shares insights on entrepreneurship, their definition of hospitality as the art of making people feel like they belong, and the importance of creative networks. They also touch upon the significance of trust and communication in their partnership, showcasing their nimble and hands-on approach to design and project management. This episode provides valuable guidance for budding entrepreneurs in the design world, emphasizing the synergy between branding and interiors in creating welcoming experiences.


Takeaways: 

  • Engage in spaces where you can have unexpected collisions with other professionals, such as creative hubs or co-working spaces.
  • Consider working with a career or business coach to help navigate difficult conversations and improve teamwork.
  • Perform a vibe check, financial check, and gut check before engaging with new clients. Remember that maintaining a comfortable and positive relationship with clients is crucial.
  • When working on projects, think about the small details that enhance user experience, such as intuitive layout, placement of switches, and durability of materials.
  • Continuously learn and embrace new roles and responsibilities within your business as it grows.
  • Produce and showcase the type of work you want to attract; what you do now is what you will continue to bring in for work.
  • Starting small can be advantageous. Focus on your strengths and expertise before scaling.

Quote of the Show: 

“So much of being successful and being able to grow and learn and evolve is surrounding yourself with people who are in a similar position.” - Haley Mistler


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Crafting Unique Hospitality Experiences - Scott Williams - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 172 172 172 Crafting Unique Hospitality Experiences - Scott Williams - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 172 full 75a18ceb-cf74-4026-afbc-4eee3adecd76 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4fd9e653 Today Scott Williams, the Chief Development and Brand Officer at Main Street Hospitality, joins host Dan Ryan to unpack the essence of hospitality through empathy, connection, and innovation. Drawing from his extensive background in media and branding, Scott offers valuable insights on creating genuine guest experiences and the parallels between theater and hospitality. The discussion also covers the significance of people-first approaches, continuous learning, and maintaining personal discipline. With anecdotes from influential leaders and successful brands, the conversation highlights the importance of independent hotels as innovation hubs, the evolving trends in experiential hospitality, and the power of community and authentic interactions.


Takeaways: 

  • Ensure that all interactions with guests convey warmth, friendliness, and empathy. Train staff to handle stressful situations gracefully to enhance the guest experience.
  • Encourage staff to make personal connections with guests and tailor their service to individual needs. Small gestures like stepping from behind the desk to hand over keys can make a significant difference.
  • Implement continuous development programs for employees, such as monthly skills labs.
  • Ensure that marketing and branding efforts authentically represent the values and culture of the business.
  • Invest in creating memorable experiences that foster brand loyalty.
  • Stay updated with new trends and practices in the industry, such as immersive experiences and sustainable practices.
  • Promote a work environment where employees feel safe to express their needs and challenges.


Quote of the Show: “Hospitality is sharing the best of yourself with one customer at a time; each and every interaction.” - Scott Williams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today Scott Williams, the Chief Development and Brand Officer at Main Street Hospitality, joins host Dan Ryan to unpack the essence of hospitality through empathy, connection, and innovation. Drawing from his extensive background in media and branding, Scott offers valuable insights on creating genuine guest experiences and the parallels between theater and hospitality. The discussion also covers the significance of people-first approaches, continuous learning, and maintaining personal discipline. With anecdotes from influential leaders and successful brands, the conversation highlights the importance of independent hotels as innovation hubs, the evolving trends in experiential hospitality, and the power of community and authentic interactions.


Takeaways: 

  • Ensure that all interactions with guests convey warmth, friendliness, and empathy. Train staff to handle stressful situations gracefully to enhance the guest experience.
  • Encourage staff to make personal connections with guests and tailor their service to individual needs. Small gestures like stepping from behind the desk to hand over keys can make a significant difference.
  • Implement continuous development programs for employees, such as monthly skills labs.
  • Ensure that marketing and branding efforts authentically represent the values and culture of the business.
  • Invest in creating memorable experiences that foster brand loyalty.
  • Stay updated with new trends and practices in the industry, such as immersive experiences and sustainable practices.
  • Promote a work environment where employees feel safe to express their needs and challenges.


Quote of the Show: “Hospitality is sharing the best of yourself with one customer at a time; each and every interaction.” - Scott Williams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2989 Today Scott Williams, the Chief Development and Brand Officer at Main Street Hospitality, joins host Dan Ryan to unpack the essence of hospitality through empathy, connection, and innovation. Drawing from his extensive background in media and branding, Scott offers valuable insights on creating genuine guest experiences and the parallels between theater and hospitality. The discussion also covers the significance of people-first approaches, continuous learning, and maintaining personal discipline. With anecdotes from influential leaders and successful brands, the conversation highlights the importance of independent hotels as innovation hubs, the evolving trends in experiential hospitality, and the power of community and authentic interactions.


Takeaways: 

  • Ensure that all interactions with guests convey warmth, friendliness, and empathy. Train staff to handle stressful situations gracefully to enhance the guest experience.
  • Encourage staff to make personal connections with guests and tailor their service to individual needs. Small gestures like stepping from behind the desk to hand over keys can make a significant difference.
  • Implement continuous development programs for employees, such as monthly skills labs.
  • Ensure that marketing and branding efforts authentically represent the values and culture of the business.
  • Invest in creating memorable experiences that foster brand loyalty.
  • Stay updated with new trends and practices in the industry, such as immersive experiences and sustainable practices.
  • Promote a work environment where employees feel safe to express their needs and challenges.


Quote of the Show: “Hospitality is sharing the best of yourself with one customer at a time; each and every interaction.” - Scott Williams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Bridging Cultures with Hospitality - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 171 171 171 Bridging Cultures with Hospitality - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 171 full 10311276-560b-43bd-91ac-ba1d6129ec28 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9fe9653e In this episode, we explore the essence and impact of hospitality in various contexts. Dan interviews Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt, the Managing Partner of AvroKO Hospitality Group. The conversation dives into Marion's career journey, starting from her early days in France, her influential experience with Gordon Ramsay, to her current role where she oversees strategy and concept development at AvroKO. Marion provides insights into how hospitality can transform spaces, enhance business strategies, and create meaningful experiences. The episode also highlights AvroKO's global projects, the importance of understanding market constraints, and the evolving nature of hospitality in enhancing guest experiences and business success.


Takeaways: 

  • When expanding or starting new ventures in different regions, understanding the local context and customer needs is crucial. 
  • Leaders should have a clear understanding of the financial realities of their business, such as the P&L of restaurants or the budget constraints for food and beverage in specific projects.
  • Encourage and value diverse experiences within your teams to innovate and solve complex problems.
  • Building trust with clients through transparent communication and demonstrating expertise can help in securing buy-in for ambitious projects. Focus on ensuring clients understand both the vision and the practical steps.
  • Think about how every touchpoint, from design to customer interaction, contributes to the overall experience and brand perception.
  • Be prepared to adapt and evolve with changing market conditions. Whether it's incorporating new technology or rethinking strategies post-pandemic, leaders must remain flexible and open to change.
  • Effective F&B strategies can significantly contribute to the revenue of hotels and other establishments. Consider investing in high-quality F&B offerings and understand the unique value it can bring to your business.

Quote of the Show:

“I have lots of early childhood memories that tie into hospitality and I just love that it comes with me through my day-to-day, through my work, and through everything I do.” - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode, we explore the essence and impact of hospitality in various contexts. Dan interviews Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt, the Managing Partner of AvroKO Hospitality Group. The conversation dives into Marion's career journey, starting from her early days in France, her influential experience with Gordon Ramsay, to her current role where she oversees strategy and concept development at AvroKO. Marion provides insights into how hospitality can transform spaces, enhance business strategies, and create meaningful experiences. The episode also highlights AvroKO's global projects, the importance of understanding market constraints, and the evolving nature of hospitality in enhancing guest experiences and business success.


Takeaways: 

  • When expanding or starting new ventures in different regions, understanding the local context and customer needs is crucial. 
  • Leaders should have a clear understanding of the financial realities of their business, such as the P&L of restaurants or the budget constraints for food and beverage in specific projects.
  • Encourage and value diverse experiences within your teams to innovate and solve complex problems.
  • Building trust with clients through transparent communication and demonstrating expertise can help in securing buy-in for ambitious projects. Focus on ensuring clients understand both the vision and the practical steps.
  • Think about how every touchpoint, from design to customer interaction, contributes to the overall experience and brand perception.
  • Be prepared to adapt and evolve with changing market conditions. Whether it's incorporating new technology or rethinking strategies post-pandemic, leaders must remain flexible and open to change.
  • Effective F&B strategies can significantly contribute to the revenue of hotels and other establishments. Consider investing in high-quality F&B offerings and understand the unique value it can bring to your business.

Quote of the Show:

“I have lots of early childhood memories that tie into hospitality and I just love that it comes with me through my day-to-day, through my work, and through everything I do.” - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3265 In this episode, we explore the essence and impact of hospitality in various contexts. Dan interviews Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt, the Managing Partner of AvroKO Hospitality Group. The conversation dives into Marion's career journey, starting from her early days in France, her influential experience with Gordon Ramsay, to her current role where she oversees strategy and concept development at AvroKO. Marion provides insights into how hospitality can transform spaces, enhance business strategies, and create meaningful experiences. The episode also highlights AvroKO's global projects, the importance of understanding market constraints, and the evolving nature of hospitality in enhancing guest experiences and business success.


Takeaways: 

  • When expanding or starting new ventures in different regions, understanding the local context and customer needs is crucial. 
  • Leaders should have a clear understanding of the financial realities of their business, such as the P&L of restaurants or the budget constraints for food and beverage in specific projects.
  • Encourage and value diverse experiences within your teams to innovate and solve complex problems.
  • Building trust with clients through transparent communication and demonstrating expertise can help in securing buy-in for ambitious projects. Focus on ensuring clients understand both the vision and the practical steps.
  • Think about how every touchpoint, from design to customer interaction, contributes to the overall experience and brand perception.
  • Be prepared to adapt and evolve with changing market conditions. Whether it's incorporating new technology or rethinking strategies post-pandemic, leaders must remain flexible and open to change.
  • Effective F&B strategies can significantly contribute to the revenue of hotels and other establishments. Consider investing in high-quality F&B offerings and understand the unique value it can bring to your business.

Quote of the Show:

“I have lots of early childhood memories that tie into hospitality and I just love that it comes with me through my day-to-day, through my work, and through everything I do.” - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Sustainable Design and Innovation - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 170 170 170 Sustainable Design and Innovation - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 170 full 662aab25-ca25-4d5b-a667-cf6bb27a0a07 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fff466ee Today’s episode provides listeners access to a session from Hospitality Sustainable Design Collaborative that Dan Ryan recently got to speak during. The webinar emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Collaborating with Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Highgate Hotels, the initiative aims to educate industry professionals on climate health, equity, and carbon footprint reduction. The session highlights the significant environmental impact of packaging and showcases how companies like Berman Falk are innovating by using recyclable materials, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions. The broader discussion includes the financial and operational impacts of climate change, the role of sustainable practices in mitigating these effects, and how industry players can contribute to long-term environmental and economic resilience.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on initiatives that make travelers feel cared for while incorporating sustainability into your operations. This shows your commitment to both hospitality and environmental stewardship.
  • Partner with major brands and contribute to educational programs that train your staff on climate health and equity.
  • Implement tools like MindClick to simplify sustainability assessment. Evaluate products based on their entire life cycle and use this intelligence to make more sustainable choices in design and purchasing.
  • Recognize and support leaders within your organization and industry who champion sustainability, such as those leading efforts in major hotel chains. Share their successes and innovations to inspire others.
  • Establish clear metrics to measure the impact of your sustainability programs. Track engagement and success rates from educational initiatives and incorporate these learnings into your strategic planning.
  • Break down complex sustainability information into manageable insights for your team. Use simplified frameworks and tools to make sustainability a more approachable and executable component of your operations.
  • Transition to more sustainable packaging options, such as honeycomb cardboard, to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Clearly communicate these changes to all stakeholders involved in production and logistics.


Quote of the Show: 

“Every hotel provides an experience for our guests and the ability to not only tell a story through design but tell a story that has a purpose and intention with respect to addressing the challenges that we all face with climate change.” - JoAnna Abrams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s episode provides listeners access to a session from Hospitality Sustainable Design Collaborative that Dan Ryan recently got to speak during. The webinar emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Collaborating with Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Highgate Hotels, the initiative aims to educate industry professionals on climate health, equity, and carbon footprint reduction. The session highlights the significant environmental impact of packaging and showcases how companies like Berman Falk are innovating by using recyclable materials, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions. The broader discussion includes the financial and operational impacts of climate change, the role of sustainable practices in mitigating these effects, and how industry players can contribute to long-term environmental and economic resilience.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on initiatives that make travelers feel cared for while incorporating sustainability into your operations. This shows your commitment to both hospitality and environmental stewardship.
  • Partner with major brands and contribute to educational programs that train your staff on climate health and equity.
  • Implement tools like MindClick to simplify sustainability assessment. Evaluate products based on their entire life cycle and use this intelligence to make more sustainable choices in design and purchasing.
  • Recognize and support leaders within your organization and industry who champion sustainability, such as those leading efforts in major hotel chains. Share their successes and innovations to inspire others.
  • Establish clear metrics to measure the impact of your sustainability programs. Track engagement and success rates from educational initiatives and incorporate these learnings into your strategic planning.
  • Break down complex sustainability information into manageable insights for your team. Use simplified frameworks and tools to make sustainability a more approachable and executable component of your operations.
  • Transition to more sustainable packaging options, such as honeycomb cardboard, to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Clearly communicate these changes to all stakeholders involved in production and logistics.


Quote of the Show: 

“Every hotel provides an experience for our guests and the ability to not only tell a story through design but tell a story that has a purpose and intention with respect to addressing the challenges that we all face with climate change.” - JoAnna Abrams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2579 Today’s episode provides listeners access to a session from Hospitality Sustainable Design Collaborative that Dan Ryan recently got to speak during. The webinar emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Collaborating with Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Highgate Hotels, the initiative aims to educate industry professionals on climate health, equity, and carbon footprint reduction. The session highlights the significant environmental impact of packaging and showcases how companies like Berman Falk are innovating by using recyclable materials, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions. The broader discussion includes the financial and operational impacts of climate change, the role of sustainable practices in mitigating these effects, and how industry players can contribute to long-term environmental and economic resilience.


Takeaways: 

  • Focus on initiatives that make travelers feel cared for while incorporating sustainability into your operations. This shows your commitment to both hospitality and environmental stewardship.
  • Partner with major brands and contribute to educational programs that train your staff on climate health and equity.
  • Implement tools like MindClick to simplify sustainability assessment. Evaluate products based on their entire life cycle and use this intelligence to make more sustainable choices in design and purchasing.
  • Recognize and support leaders within your organization and industry who champion sustainability, such as those leading efforts in major hotel chains. Share their successes and innovations to inspire others.
  • Establish clear metrics to measure the impact of your sustainability programs. Track engagement and success rates from educational initiatives and incorporate these learnings into your strategic planning.
  • Break down complex sustainability information into manageable insights for your team. Use simplified frameworks and tools to make sustainability a more approachable and executable component of your operations.
  • Transition to more sustainable packaging options, such as honeycomb cardboard, to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Clearly communicate these changes to all stakeholders involved in production and logistics.


Quote of the Show: 

“Every hotel provides an experience for our guests and the ability to not only tell a story through design but tell a story that has a purpose and intention with respect to addressing the challenges that we all face with climate change.” - JoAnna Abrams


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Leadership in Design: Intern to Principal - Alessia Genova - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 169 169 169 Leadership in Design: Intern to Principal - Alessia Genova - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 169 full 06b6e610-6257-4e89-b2dd-8e66a75e7075 https://share.transistor.fm/s/33e157f4 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan interviews Alessia Genova, a noted interior design expert in the hospitality industry. Alessia shares her inspiring journey from starting as an intern at Tihany Design to becoming the company's principal and managing partner. With over 15 years of experience, Alessia discusses her passion for hospitality design, the importance of relationships and reputation, and the challenges and triumphs she encountered when taking over the company. The conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining high-quality standards, navigating career transitions, and balancing innovation with tradition in the design industry. She is an inspiration to hospitality professionals everywhere, you don’t want to miss this episode!


Takeaways: 

  • Identifying and communicating the mission behind what you do can energize and drive you and your team. In hospitality, for example, the goal might be to make people feel cared for during their journeys.
  • Building strong, lasting relationships within your industry—whether with clients, colleagues, or vendors—can be a foundation for long-term success.
  • Nurturing your team members and providing mentorship can foster a strong, supportive working environment. Encourage personal and professional growth through guidance and sharing knowledge.
  • For firms with a rich legacy, it’s essential to balance the respect for past accomplishments with the drive to innovate and explore new paths.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic was described as a non-linear challenge, indicating the importance of adaptability. Leaders must stay flexible and manage unforeseen changes effectively.
  • Focus on the quality of work and craftsmanship, from design to execution. Detailed project planning and immaculate attention to detail can set you apart.


Quote of the Show: “Eventually you grow and you understand that having an understanding of these spaces will help you also design them in a certain way.” - Alessia Genova


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan interviews Alessia Genova, a noted interior design expert in the hospitality industry. Alessia shares her inspiring journey from starting as an intern at Tihany Design to becoming the company's principal and managing partner. With over 15 years of experience, Alessia discusses her passion for hospitality design, the importance of relationships and reputation, and the challenges and triumphs she encountered when taking over the company. The conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining high-quality standards, navigating career transitions, and balancing innovation with tradition in the design industry. She is an inspiration to hospitality professionals everywhere, you don’t want to miss this episode!


Takeaways: 

  • Identifying and communicating the mission behind what you do can energize and drive you and your team. In hospitality, for example, the goal might be to make people feel cared for during their journeys.
  • Building strong, lasting relationships within your industry—whether with clients, colleagues, or vendors—can be a foundation for long-term success.
  • Nurturing your team members and providing mentorship can foster a strong, supportive working environment. Encourage personal and professional growth through guidance and sharing knowledge.
  • For firms with a rich legacy, it’s essential to balance the respect for past accomplishments with the drive to innovate and explore new paths.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic was described as a non-linear challenge, indicating the importance of adaptability. Leaders must stay flexible and manage unforeseen changes effectively.
  • Focus on the quality of work and craftsmanship, from design to execution. Detailed project planning and immaculate attention to detail can set you apart.


Quote of the Show: “Eventually you grow and you understand that having an understanding of these spaces will help you also design them in a certain way.” - Alessia Genova


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3402 In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan interviews Alessia Genova, a noted interior design expert in the hospitality industry. Alessia shares her inspiring journey from starting as an intern at Tihany Design to becoming the company's principal and managing partner. With over 15 years of experience, Alessia discusses her passion for hospitality design, the importance of relationships and reputation, and the challenges and triumphs she encountered when taking over the company. The conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining high-quality standards, navigating career transitions, and balancing innovation with tradition in the design industry. She is an inspiration to hospitality professionals everywhere, you don’t want to miss this episode!


Takeaways: 

  • Identifying and communicating the mission behind what you do can energize and drive you and your team. In hospitality, for example, the goal might be to make people feel cared for during their journeys.
  • Building strong, lasting relationships within your industry—whether with clients, colleagues, or vendors—can be a foundation for long-term success.
  • Nurturing your team members and providing mentorship can foster a strong, supportive working environment. Encourage personal and professional growth through guidance and sharing knowledge.
  • For firms with a rich legacy, it’s essential to balance the respect for past accomplishments with the drive to innovate and explore new paths.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic was described as a non-linear challenge, indicating the importance of adaptability. Leaders must stay flexible and manage unforeseen changes effectively.
  • Focus on the quality of work and craftsmanship, from design to execution. Detailed project planning and immaculate attention to detail can set you apart.


Quote of the Show: “Eventually you grow and you understand that having an understanding of these spaces will help you also design them in a certain way.” - Alessia Genova


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Bringing Excitement to Every Space - Natalia Miyar - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 168 168 168 Bringing Excitement to Every Space - Natalia Miyar - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 168 full 62423a3e-bf22-4d5a-a5c3-968ebbe76988 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dd17909d Today, host Dan Ryan speaks with Natalia Miyar, an experienced architect and designer with a global footprint and the Founder of Natalia Miyar Atelier. Natalia shares her journey from studying art history to establishing a successful design studio focusing on both high-end residential and hospitality projects. They discuss her design philosophy, the importance of making spaces comfortable and unique, and her transition into the hospitality sector, which includes projects in London and Mexico. Natalia also elaborates on her commitment to mentoring young talent and her aspirations for creating a lifestyle brand in the future. The conversation highlights the blend of practicality and creativity that is essential in design, and the significance of being open to new experiences and opportunities.


Takeaways: 

  • Be open to unexpected paths and seize opportunities that may not have been part of the initial plan. This flexibility can lead to exciting new ventures and growth.
  • Working with a business coach or mentor can provide valuable insights, accountability, and support. This kind of guidance is especially crucial for entrepreneurial growth and overcoming challenges.
  • Diversity in your team can drive creativity and innovation.
  • It's vital to merge creative vision with practical execution. Understanding the balance between artistic freedom and the responsibilities of design ensures projects are both beautiful and functional.
  • Leaders should encourage a culture of continuous learning within their organizations. This includes structured mentoring and internship programs to foster growth and development.
  • Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their ideas and creativity, even if it pushes the boundaries of the project’s original vision.
  • Being adaptable and willing to change direction when presented with new opportunities or challenges is a valuable trait for leaders.


Quote of the Show:

“I think any entrepreneur will tell you the hardest thing is finding the right people to go on that journey with you.” - Natalia Miyar


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today, host Dan Ryan speaks with Natalia Miyar, an experienced architect and designer with a global footprint and the Founder of Natalia Miyar Atelier. Natalia shares her journey from studying art history to establishing a successful design studio focusing on both high-end residential and hospitality projects. They discuss her design philosophy, the importance of making spaces comfortable and unique, and her transition into the hospitality sector, which includes projects in London and Mexico. Natalia also elaborates on her commitment to mentoring young talent and her aspirations for creating a lifestyle brand in the future. The conversation highlights the blend of practicality and creativity that is essential in design, and the significance of being open to new experiences and opportunities.


Takeaways: 

  • Be open to unexpected paths and seize opportunities that may not have been part of the initial plan. This flexibility can lead to exciting new ventures and growth.
  • Working with a business coach or mentor can provide valuable insights, accountability, and support. This kind of guidance is especially crucial for entrepreneurial growth and overcoming challenges.
  • Diversity in your team can drive creativity and innovation.
  • It's vital to merge creative vision with practical execution. Understanding the balance between artistic freedom and the responsibilities of design ensures projects are both beautiful and functional.
  • Leaders should encourage a culture of continuous learning within their organizations. This includes structured mentoring and internship programs to foster growth and development.
  • Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their ideas and creativity, even if it pushes the boundaries of the project’s original vision.
  • Being adaptable and willing to change direction when presented with new opportunities or challenges is a valuable trait for leaders.


Quote of the Show:

“I think any entrepreneur will tell you the hardest thing is finding the right people to go on that journey with you.” - Natalia Miyar


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3483 Today, host Dan Ryan speaks with Natalia Miyar, an experienced architect and designer with a global footprint and the Founder of Natalia Miyar Atelier. Natalia shares her journey from studying art history to establishing a successful design studio focusing on both high-end residential and hospitality projects. They discuss her design philosophy, the importance of making spaces comfortable and unique, and her transition into the hospitality sector, which includes projects in London and Mexico. Natalia also elaborates on her commitment to mentoring young talent and her aspirations for creating a lifestyle brand in the future. The conversation highlights the blend of practicality and creativity that is essential in design, and the significance of being open to new experiences and opportunities.


Takeaways: 

  • Be open to unexpected paths and seize opportunities that may not have been part of the initial plan. This flexibility can lead to exciting new ventures and growth.
  • Working with a business coach or mentor can provide valuable insights, accountability, and support. This kind of guidance is especially crucial for entrepreneurial growth and overcoming challenges.
  • Diversity in your team can drive creativity and innovation.
  • It's vital to merge creative vision with practical execution. Understanding the balance between artistic freedom and the responsibilities of design ensures projects are both beautiful and functional.
  • Leaders should encourage a culture of continuous learning within their organizations. This includes structured mentoring and internship programs to foster growth and development.
  • Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their ideas and creativity, even if it pushes the boundaries of the project’s original vision.
  • Being adaptable and willing to change direction when presented with new opportunities or challenges is a valuable trait for leaders.


Quote of the Show:

“I think any entrepreneur will tell you the hardest thing is finding the right people to go on that journey with you.” - Natalia Miyar


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Blurring Lines: Architecture and Hospitality - Foreman Rogers - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 167 167 167 Blurring Lines: Architecture and Hospitality - Foreman Rogers - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 167 full 3a26b171-1582-4261-bec6-979ae5b3383a https://share.transistor.fm/s/d4a1baa6 In this episode, Dan sits down in person with Foreman Rogers, Principal at Blur Workshop, to discuss his career in hospitality design and the firm's recent milestone of celebrating their 10th anniversary! Foreman shares insights on the founding of Blur Workshop, the significance of blurring the lines between architecture and interiors, and the importance of empathy and listening in their design process. He also highlights the firm's collaborative culture, high retention rate, and the wide spectrum of projects they handle, from boutique hotels to large convention centers. Join us as we explore Foreman's reflections on the last decade, his excitement for the future, and the values that drive Blur Workshop's unique approach to design.


Takeaways: 

  • Create a workplace culture that aligns with a larger mission, such as caring for people or creating meaningful experiences. This can elevate the sense of purpose and motivation among employees.
  • Promote an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and providing feedback. Emphasize that there are no bad questions or ideas to foster innovation and collaboration.
  • Develop active listening skills and emphasize their importance across all levels of the organization.
  • Acknowledge the emotional aspects of work, especially in industries focused on hospitality and customer experience. Support your team in creating emotional connections through their work by understanding and empathizing with client and customer needs.
  • Cultivate a humble work environment where egos are checked at the door. Ensure that the focus remains on collective success rather than individual accolades.
  • While fostering a collaborative environment, ensure processes are in place to maintain efficiency and meet deadlines.


Quote of the Show: “The hospitality, it’s in our blood I think.” - Foreman Rogers


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode, Dan sits down in person with Foreman Rogers, Principal at Blur Workshop, to discuss his career in hospitality design and the firm's recent milestone of celebrating their 10th anniversary! Foreman shares insights on the founding of Blur Workshop, the significance of blurring the lines between architecture and interiors, and the importance of empathy and listening in their design process. He also highlights the firm's collaborative culture, high retention rate, and the wide spectrum of projects they handle, from boutique hotels to large convention centers. Join us as we explore Foreman's reflections on the last decade, his excitement for the future, and the values that drive Blur Workshop's unique approach to design.


Takeaways: 

  • Create a workplace culture that aligns with a larger mission, such as caring for people or creating meaningful experiences. This can elevate the sense of purpose and motivation among employees.
  • Promote an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and providing feedback. Emphasize that there are no bad questions or ideas to foster innovation and collaboration.
  • Develop active listening skills and emphasize their importance across all levels of the organization.
  • Acknowledge the emotional aspects of work, especially in industries focused on hospitality and customer experience. Support your team in creating emotional connections through their work by understanding and empathizing with client and customer needs.
  • Cultivate a humble work environment where egos are checked at the door. Ensure that the focus remains on collective success rather than individual accolades.
  • While fostering a collaborative environment, ensure processes are in place to maintain efficiency and meet deadlines.


Quote of the Show: “The hospitality, it’s in our blood I think.” - Foreman Rogers


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Sep 2024 10:43:19 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3175 In this episode, Dan sits down in person with Foreman Rogers, Principal at Blur Workshop, to discuss his career in hospitality design and the firm's recent milestone of celebrating their 10th anniversary! Foreman shares insights on the founding of Blur Workshop, the significance of blurring the lines between architecture and interiors, and the importance of empathy and listening in their design process. He also highlights the firm's collaborative culture, high retention rate, and the wide spectrum of projects they handle, from boutique hotels to large convention centers. Join us as we explore Foreman's reflections on the last decade, his excitement for the future, and the values that drive Blur Workshop's unique approach to design.


Takeaways: 

  • Create a workplace culture that aligns with a larger mission, such as caring for people or creating meaningful experiences. This can elevate the sense of purpose and motivation among employees.
  • Promote an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and providing feedback. Emphasize that there are no bad questions or ideas to foster innovation and collaboration.
  • Develop active listening skills and emphasize their importance across all levels of the organization.
  • Acknowledge the emotional aspects of work, especially in industries focused on hospitality and customer experience. Support your team in creating emotional connections through their work by understanding and empathizing with client and customer needs.
  • Cultivate a humble work environment where egos are checked at the door. Ensure that the focus remains on collective success rather than individual accolades.
  • While fostering a collaborative environment, ensure processes are in place to maintain efficiency and meet deadlines.


Quote of the Show: “The hospitality, it’s in our blood I think.” - Foreman Rogers


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Crafting Authentic Southern Hospitality - Amy Michaelson Kelly - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 166 166 166 Crafting Authentic Southern Hospitality - Amy Michaelson Kelly - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 166 full 74339564-acff-4221-9259-9c1a6ca85928 https://share.transistor.fm/s/362b92f4 In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Michaelson Kelly, a former litigator turned hotel developer and Principal of Hatteras Sky. Amy shares her path from practicing law to creating unique hospitality experiences in Asheville, North Carolina. She’s developed the Radical and Zelda Dearest hotels, both providing unique hotel experiences. Amy discusses the importance of community involvement, storytelling in hotel branding, and balancing compliance with creativity. She also talks about her firm's upcoming project, the Asher Adams Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout the conversation, Amy highlights the value of intentionality in independent hotels, the significance of making guests feel celebrated, and the influence of her legal background on her hospitality ventures.


Takeaways: 

  • Storytelling can differentiate a business and create unique connections with clients, especially in the hospitality industry, where narratives can enhance the guest experience significantly.
  • True hospitality goes beyond mere accommodation; it involves making people feel truly welcome and cared for, often through personal touches and attention to detail.
  • Leaders should not be afraid to take risks and venture into creative territories.
  • Successful leadership often involves balancing rigorous compliance and technical demands with creative freedom. This ensures both operational excellence and innovative guest experiences.
  • Building and maintaining good relationships with local communities and stakeholders is crucial. Engaging with and listening to community members can lead to more sustainable and accepted development projects.
  • Flexibility is essential in adapting to new market demands and trends, such as the shift from traditional office spaces to more dynamic living and working environments.
  • Commit to continuous learning and personal growth. Leaders should seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.


Quote of the Show: “I love to be underestimated. It’s my favorite thing.” - Amy Michaelson Kelly


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Michaelson Kelly, a former litigator turned hotel developer and Principal of Hatteras Sky. Amy shares her path from practicing law to creating unique hospitality experiences in Asheville, North Carolina. She’s developed the Radical and Zelda Dearest hotels, both providing unique hotel experiences. Amy discusses the importance of community involvement, storytelling in hotel branding, and balancing compliance with creativity. She also talks about her firm's upcoming project, the Asher Adams Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout the conversation, Amy highlights the value of intentionality in independent hotels, the significance of making guests feel celebrated, and the influence of her legal background on her hospitality ventures.


Takeaways: 

  • Storytelling can differentiate a business and create unique connections with clients, especially in the hospitality industry, where narratives can enhance the guest experience significantly.
  • True hospitality goes beyond mere accommodation; it involves making people feel truly welcome and cared for, often through personal touches and attention to detail.
  • Leaders should not be afraid to take risks and venture into creative territories.
  • Successful leadership often involves balancing rigorous compliance and technical demands with creative freedom. This ensures both operational excellence and innovative guest experiences.
  • Building and maintaining good relationships with local communities and stakeholders is crucial. Engaging with and listening to community members can lead to more sustainable and accepted development projects.
  • Flexibility is essential in adapting to new market demands and trends, such as the shift from traditional office spaces to more dynamic living and working environments.
  • Commit to continuous learning and personal growth. Leaders should seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.


Quote of the Show: “I love to be underestimated. It’s my favorite thing.” - Amy Michaelson Kelly


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:46:05 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3100 In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Michaelson Kelly, a former litigator turned hotel developer and Principal of Hatteras Sky. Amy shares her path from practicing law to creating unique hospitality experiences in Asheville, North Carolina. She’s developed the Radical and Zelda Dearest hotels, both providing unique hotel experiences. Amy discusses the importance of community involvement, storytelling in hotel branding, and balancing compliance with creativity. She also talks about her firm's upcoming project, the Asher Adams Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout the conversation, Amy highlights the value of intentionality in independent hotels, the significance of making guests feel celebrated, and the influence of her legal background on her hospitality ventures.


Takeaways: 

  • Storytelling can differentiate a business and create unique connections with clients, especially in the hospitality industry, where narratives can enhance the guest experience significantly.
  • True hospitality goes beyond mere accommodation; it involves making people feel truly welcome and cared for, often through personal touches and attention to detail.
  • Leaders should not be afraid to take risks and venture into creative territories.
  • Successful leadership often involves balancing rigorous compliance and technical demands with creative freedom. This ensures both operational excellence and innovative guest experiences.
  • Building and maintaining good relationships with local communities and stakeholders is crucial. Engaging with and listening to community members can lead to more sustainable and accepted development projects.
  • Flexibility is essential in adapting to new market demands and trends, such as the shift from traditional office spaces to more dynamic living and working environments.
  • Commit to continuous learning and personal growth. Leaders should seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.


Quote of the Show: “I love to be underestimated. It’s my favorite thing.” - Amy Michaelson Kelly


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Hospitality Through Empathy - Malcolm Berg - Defining Hospitality - Episode #165 165 165 Hospitality Through Empathy - Malcolm Berg - Defining Hospitality - Episode #165 full 490be88e-a890-4038-966f-352e8648c926 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f88c18dc Today, Dan finally gets to sit down and talk with Malcolm Berg, who is not only a designer, but an entrepreneur who founded Edge of Architecture. He is all about pushing the boundaries and innovating to the next degree. Malcolm provides his insights on hospitality and how important it is to bring empathy and human connection to the forefront of design and architecture. The conversation also delves into the significance of gratitude, the role of mentorship at EOA, and the enduring philosophy of reflecting values and unity in their projects. Listen along to hear Malcolm and Dan’s conversation!


Takeaways: 

  • Cultivate empathy within your team and client relationships. Understanding and responding to people's needs and emotions is crucial for creating meaningful work and strong bonds.
  • Strive beyond good enough. Aim for spectacular and aim to create experiences and designs that evoke strong, positive reactions.
  • Hire people for their enthusiasm, work ethic, and potential rather than just their current skills or experience. Develop a culture of mentorship to nurture growth from within.
  • Work with stakeholders, including clients and team members, who share similar values and vision. Avoid relationships that are purely transactional or financially driven.
  • Emphasize continuous learning and innovation. Do not settle into a routine; constantly push the boundaries to stay ahead in a world that is rapidly changing.
  • Develop a strong, cohesive concept as the foundation for all your design elements. This helps maintain a consistent narrative and creates a more immersive experience.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s how you behave in the trenches that kind of makes you who you are. Things are going to go sideways, shit happens. It’s how you fix it that counts.” - Malcolm Berg


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today, Dan finally gets to sit down and talk with Malcolm Berg, who is not only a designer, but an entrepreneur who founded Edge of Architecture. He is all about pushing the boundaries and innovating to the next degree. Malcolm provides his insights on hospitality and how important it is to bring empathy and human connection to the forefront of design and architecture. The conversation also delves into the significance of gratitude, the role of mentorship at EOA, and the enduring philosophy of reflecting values and unity in their projects. Listen along to hear Malcolm and Dan’s conversation!


Takeaways: 

  • Cultivate empathy within your team and client relationships. Understanding and responding to people's needs and emotions is crucial for creating meaningful work and strong bonds.
  • Strive beyond good enough. Aim for spectacular and aim to create experiences and designs that evoke strong, positive reactions.
  • Hire people for their enthusiasm, work ethic, and potential rather than just their current skills or experience. Develop a culture of mentorship to nurture growth from within.
  • Work with stakeholders, including clients and team members, who share similar values and vision. Avoid relationships that are purely transactional or financially driven.
  • Emphasize continuous learning and innovation. Do not settle into a routine; constantly push the boundaries to stay ahead in a world that is rapidly changing.
  • Develop a strong, cohesive concept as the foundation for all your design elements. This helps maintain a consistent narrative and creates a more immersive experience.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s how you behave in the trenches that kind of makes you who you are. Things are going to go sideways, shit happens. It’s how you fix it that counts.” - Malcolm Berg


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Thu, 01 Aug 2024 15:23:09 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3672 Today, Dan finally gets to sit down and talk with Malcolm Berg, who is not only a designer, but an entrepreneur who founded Edge of Architecture. He is all about pushing the boundaries and innovating to the next degree. Malcolm provides his insights on hospitality and how important it is to bring empathy and human connection to the forefront of design and architecture. The conversation also delves into the significance of gratitude, the role of mentorship at EOA, and the enduring philosophy of reflecting values and unity in their projects. Listen along to hear Malcolm and Dan’s conversation!


Takeaways: 

  • Cultivate empathy within your team and client relationships. Understanding and responding to people's needs and emotions is crucial for creating meaningful work and strong bonds.
  • Strive beyond good enough. Aim for spectacular and aim to create experiences and designs that evoke strong, positive reactions.
  • Hire people for their enthusiasm, work ethic, and potential rather than just their current skills or experience. Develop a culture of mentorship to nurture growth from within.
  • Work with stakeholders, including clients and team members, who share similar values and vision. Avoid relationships that are purely transactional or financially driven.
  • Emphasize continuous learning and innovation. Do not settle into a routine; constantly push the boundaries to stay ahead in a world that is rapidly changing.
  • Develop a strong, cohesive concept as the foundation for all your design elements. This helps maintain a consistent narrative and creates a more immersive experience.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s how you behave in the trenches that kind of makes you who you are. Things are going to go sideways, shit happens. It’s how you fix it that counts.” - Malcolm Berg


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Design - Vanessa Watts & Erika Dray - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 164 164 164 The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Design - Vanessa Watts & Erika Dray - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 164 full f79f0699-fe91-44ee-ab3d-ed5d9f885da9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/888a8fd3 In today’s episode, Dan sits down to talk with a fiery design duo who have overcome new business challenges and thrived in the interior design industry. They are the co-founders and current partners of Watts & Dray: Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray. The two provide insights into their journey from creative director and fashion designer into partners who built a company from scratch. Take a listen and hear their story, as well as some valuable insights!


Takeaways: 

  • The importance of genuine human connection and attentiveness in hospitality can't be overstated. Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel genuinely cared for and where they, in turn, extend that care to clients and colleagues alike.
  • Hospitality is not just for the elite but should be extended to everyone, regardless of their background or status. This inclusive approach can help create a more welcoming and supportive team culture.
  • Starting and running a business often involves numerous setbacks. Leaders should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and adaptability, learning from mistakes and constantly iterating on their approach.
  • While passion and spontaneity are crucial, having a well-thought-out plan and understanding business dynamics like cash flow and client acquisition can significantly impact success.
  • Allow room for wild and innovative ideas, and don’t be afraid to pursue unconventional projects. 
  • Building a business with a partner involves clear communication, respect, and a shared vision.
  • Don't wait for the perfect moment or perfect plan to start. Begin your entrepreneurial journey with the understanding that learning and adjustments are part of the process.


Quote of the Show:

  • “At that point in my career, I had never designed anything on my own. It had always been through a studio, for studio clients, and no one had ever asked me to design anything on my own, but I have some pretty wild ideas about what I think the world should look like.” - Vanessa Watts

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In today’s episode, Dan sits down to talk with a fiery design duo who have overcome new business challenges and thrived in the interior design industry. They are the co-founders and current partners of Watts & Dray: Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray. The two provide insights into their journey from creative director and fashion designer into partners who built a company from scratch. Take a listen and hear their story, as well as some valuable insights!


Takeaways: 

  • The importance of genuine human connection and attentiveness in hospitality can't be overstated. Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel genuinely cared for and where they, in turn, extend that care to clients and colleagues alike.
  • Hospitality is not just for the elite but should be extended to everyone, regardless of their background or status. This inclusive approach can help create a more welcoming and supportive team culture.
  • Starting and running a business often involves numerous setbacks. Leaders should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and adaptability, learning from mistakes and constantly iterating on their approach.
  • While passion and spontaneity are crucial, having a well-thought-out plan and understanding business dynamics like cash flow and client acquisition can significantly impact success.
  • Allow room for wild and innovative ideas, and don’t be afraid to pursue unconventional projects. 
  • Building a business with a partner involves clear communication, respect, and a shared vision.
  • Don't wait for the perfect moment or perfect plan to start. Begin your entrepreneurial journey with the understanding that learning and adjustments are part of the process.


Quote of the Show:

  • “At that point in my career, I had never designed anything on my own. It had always been through a studio, for studio clients, and no one had ever asked me to design anything on my own, but I have some pretty wild ideas about what I think the world should look like.” - Vanessa Watts

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3225 In today’s episode, Dan sits down to talk with a fiery design duo who have overcome new business challenges and thrived in the interior design industry. They are the co-founders and current partners of Watts & Dray: Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray. The two provide insights into their journey from creative director and fashion designer into partners who built a company from scratch. Take a listen and hear their story, as well as some valuable insights!


Takeaways: 

  • The importance of genuine human connection and attentiveness in hospitality can't be overstated. Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel genuinely cared for and where they, in turn, extend that care to clients and colleagues alike.
  • Hospitality is not just for the elite but should be extended to everyone, regardless of their background or status. This inclusive approach can help create a more welcoming and supportive team culture.
  • Starting and running a business often involves numerous setbacks. Leaders should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and adaptability, learning from mistakes and constantly iterating on their approach.
  • While passion and spontaneity are crucial, having a well-thought-out plan and understanding business dynamics like cash flow and client acquisition can significantly impact success.
  • Allow room for wild and innovative ideas, and don’t be afraid to pursue unconventional projects. 
  • Building a business with a partner involves clear communication, respect, and a shared vision.
  • Don't wait for the perfect moment or perfect plan to start. Begin your entrepreneurial journey with the understanding that learning and adjustments are part of the process.


Quote of the Show:

  • “At that point in my career, I had never designed anything on my own. It had always been through a studio, for studio clients, and no one had ever asked me to design anything on my own, but I have some pretty wild ideas about what I think the world should look like.” - Vanessa Watts

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt INDIEConFab Recap - Dan Ryan - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 163 163 163 INDIEConFab Recap - Dan Ryan - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 163 full 99158eb3-66bc-42b8-9868-17c627f9c395 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f77989c9 This week, Dan Ryan sits down to talk about the INDIEConFab, a conference he attended and emceed earlier this week. He recaps on the two days he spent there and provides insights on what he thought about it (spoiler: he loved it) and summarizes the different segments he got the opportunity to emcee for! Listen to hear about Dan’s experience at the INDIEConFab!

Takeaways: 

  • Mentorship can be both formal and informal but should focus on genuine curiosity and openness.
  • Mentors should be prepared to guide mentees even if it means encouraging them to explore opportunities outside the current organization.
  • Beyond traditional metrics like growth and revenue, success includes the quality of relationships built, the impact made on others, and the experiences created.
  • There is a shift from "outdoor leisure" to "experiential hospitality," indicating a broader scope of creating immersive and engaging customer experiences.
  • Authenticity in development (not "faking the funk") leads to better financial performance and genuine neighborhood integration.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I think in all of our careers, it was, growth, revenue, profit, whatever other KPIs you could think of that are these metrics of what makes a business successful. But I think we all came to this really cool realization that it's also about relationships.” - Dan Ryan


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week, Dan Ryan sits down to talk about the INDIEConFab, a conference he attended and emceed earlier this week. He recaps on the two days he spent there and provides insights on what he thought about it (spoiler: he loved it) and summarizes the different segments he got the opportunity to emcee for! Listen to hear about Dan’s experience at the INDIEConFab!

Takeaways: 

  • Mentorship can be both formal and informal but should focus on genuine curiosity and openness.
  • Mentors should be prepared to guide mentees even if it means encouraging them to explore opportunities outside the current organization.
  • Beyond traditional metrics like growth and revenue, success includes the quality of relationships built, the impact made on others, and the experiences created.
  • There is a shift from "outdoor leisure" to "experiential hospitality," indicating a broader scope of creating immersive and engaging customer experiences.
  • Authenticity in development (not "faking the funk") leads to better financial performance and genuine neighborhood integration.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I think in all of our careers, it was, growth, revenue, profit, whatever other KPIs you could think of that are these metrics of what makes a business successful. But I think we all came to this really cool realization that it's also about relationships.” - Dan Ryan


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:29:16 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1157 This week, Dan Ryan sits down to talk about the INDIEConFab, a conference he attended and emceed earlier this week. He recaps on the two days he spent there and provides insights on what he thought about it (spoiler: he loved it) and summarizes the different segments he got the opportunity to emcee for! Listen to hear about Dan’s experience at the INDIEConFab!

Takeaways: 

  • Mentorship can be both formal and informal but should focus on genuine curiosity and openness.
  • Mentors should be prepared to guide mentees even if it means encouraging them to explore opportunities outside the current organization.
  • Beyond traditional metrics like growth and revenue, success includes the quality of relationships built, the impact made on others, and the experiences created.
  • There is a shift from "outdoor leisure" to "experiential hospitality," indicating a broader scope of creating immersive and engaging customer experiences.
  • Authenticity in development (not "faking the funk") leads to better financial performance and genuine neighborhood integration.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I think in all of our careers, it was, growth, revenue, profit, whatever other KPIs you could think of that are these metrics of what makes a business successful. But I think we all came to this really cool realization that it's also about relationships.” - Dan Ryan


Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Rayanne Pruitt Building The Business Of Service - Ashli Johnson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 162 162 162 Building The Business Of Service - Ashli Johnson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 162 full e4822dc8-ce7e-4c6c-b977-ea29df990827 https://share.transistor.fm/s/349f3102 Our guest this week is someone who is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. Please welcome to the show, Founder of Hospitality Hued, Ashli Johnson!


Ashli sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways the hospitality industry can be more accommodating of Black and Brown professionals. Ashli shares her motivations for founding Hospitality Hued, the importance of early professional development, and how to instill a sense of ownership in employees.

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality is ultimately a business of service, it is rapidly evolving to better address DEI issues across employment, supplier diversity, and leadership. To remain impactful, those in the industry must actively engage in these conversations.
  • Conferences and networking are a crucial part of success in the hospitality industry, yet many Black and Brown leaders find themselves “under conferenced”. To combat this, HUED was created to lower barriers to these opportunities for Black and Brown leaders.
  • Leverage alumni networks to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical career development. Don't overlook the importance of having a strategic approach when pursuing career goals to avoid potential disadvantages and seize growth opportunities.
  • To motivate teams to think like owners, consider actually giving them ownership stakes, as it fundamentally changes their understanding and investment in the business. Implementing an equity share model can drive engagement from general managers.
  • In hospitality, it's crucial to understand how positive guest experiences impact the business's overall success and competitive position. Recognizing the connection between guest satisfaction and business metrics such as rates, market competition, and capital expenditures is essential for professional growth and effective management.
  • Aspiring hotel or restaurant owners should carefully consider their financial and personal responsibilities before pursuing ownership. Instead of direct ownership, roles such as investor or franchisee have lower capital requirements and barriers to entry.
  • Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who want to master the business, and ensure that your leadership is aware of your interests to help you move towards your desired career path.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Your fortune is found in the follow up.” - Ashli Johnson

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is someone who is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. Please welcome to the show, Founder of Hospitality Hued, Ashli Johnson!


Ashli sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways the hospitality industry can be more accommodating of Black and Brown professionals. Ashli shares her motivations for founding Hospitality Hued, the importance of early professional development, and how to instill a sense of ownership in employees.

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality is ultimately a business of service, it is rapidly evolving to better address DEI issues across employment, supplier diversity, and leadership. To remain impactful, those in the industry must actively engage in these conversations.
  • Conferences and networking are a crucial part of success in the hospitality industry, yet many Black and Brown leaders find themselves “under conferenced”. To combat this, HUED was created to lower barriers to these opportunities for Black and Brown leaders.
  • Leverage alumni networks to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical career development. Don't overlook the importance of having a strategic approach when pursuing career goals to avoid potential disadvantages and seize growth opportunities.
  • To motivate teams to think like owners, consider actually giving them ownership stakes, as it fundamentally changes their understanding and investment in the business. Implementing an equity share model can drive engagement from general managers.
  • In hospitality, it's crucial to understand how positive guest experiences impact the business's overall success and competitive position. Recognizing the connection between guest satisfaction and business metrics such as rates, market competition, and capital expenditures is essential for professional growth and effective management.
  • Aspiring hotel or restaurant owners should carefully consider their financial and personal responsibilities before pursuing ownership. Instead of direct ownership, roles such as investor or franchisee have lower capital requirements and barriers to entry.
  • Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who want to master the business, and ensure that your leadership is aware of your interests to help you move towards your desired career path.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Your fortune is found in the follow up.” - Ashli Johnson

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:56:42 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3317 Our guest this week is someone who is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. Please welcome to the show, Founder of Hospitality Hued, Ashli Johnson!


Ashli sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways the hospitality industry can be more accommodating of Black and Brown professionals. Ashli shares her motivations for founding Hospitality Hued, the importance of early professional development, and how to instill a sense of ownership in employees.

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality is ultimately a business of service, it is rapidly evolving to better address DEI issues across employment, supplier diversity, and leadership. To remain impactful, those in the industry must actively engage in these conversations.
  • Conferences and networking are a crucial part of success in the hospitality industry, yet many Black and Brown leaders find themselves “under conferenced”. To combat this, HUED was created to lower barriers to these opportunities for Black and Brown leaders.
  • Leverage alumni networks to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical career development. Don't overlook the importance of having a strategic approach when pursuing career goals to avoid potential disadvantages and seize growth opportunities.
  • To motivate teams to think like owners, consider actually giving them ownership stakes, as it fundamentally changes their understanding and investment in the business. Implementing an equity share model can drive engagement from general managers.
  • In hospitality, it's crucial to understand how positive guest experiences impact the business's overall success and competitive position. Recognizing the connection between guest satisfaction and business metrics such as rates, market competition, and capital expenditures is essential for professional growth and effective management.
  • Aspiring hotel or restaurant owners should carefully consider their financial and personal responsibilities before pursuing ownership. Instead of direct ownership, roles such as investor or franchisee have lower capital requirements and barriers to entry.
  • Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who want to master the business, and ensure that your leadership is aware of your interests to help you move towards your desired career path.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Your fortune is found in the follow up.” - Ashli Johnson

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Crafting Opulent Hospitality - Vibha Sawhney - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 161 161 161 Crafting Opulent Hospitality - Vibha Sawhney - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 161 full 9263dba3-d83e-4612-87b9-b8664291e801 https://share.transistor.fm/s/138b061b Joining the show this week is a hospitality professional who creates distinct projects that make emotional connections with guests. Please welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Construction Services at Kempinski, Vibha Sawhney.


Vibha joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss how she creates luxury projects that meet the needs of owners. Vibha also shares the importance of collaborative empathy, the value of meticulous attention to detail, and explores Kempinski's unique approach to luxury.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves providing the highest level of service where the guest is considered supreme. For an architect, design and architecture are tools to craft unforgettable and comfortable memories for guests, emphasizing their supreme importance.
  • To gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of materials, immerse yourself in working alongside skilled tradespeople like carpenters and metal workers. Understanding how they work allows you to better utilize a material in planning. 
  • The key to success is selecting the right partners who will give proper attention to your projects and act with empathy toward the end-users. It is essential to work collaboratively to achieve the best results and support the owner's vision.
  • A successful property requires exceptional service across all locations and maintaining high standards in essential areas like breakfast and room comfort. Consideration must be given to space constraints, ensuring comfortable environments in smaller spaces.
  • While many brands have a clear and defined aesthetic that should be designed for, your job is ultimately to work with an owner to tie their vision together. Successful collaboration blends both brand design and owner desires. 
  • Hotels are ultimately an ecosystem that requires collaboration between various functions and backgrounds to function properly. Collaboration can only happen if empathetic understanding is found between employees. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We are really open to understanding what the owner and the owner's team wants to do in a project.” - Vibha Sawhney

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is a hospitality professional who creates distinct projects that make emotional connections with guests. Please welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Construction Services at Kempinski, Vibha Sawhney.


Vibha joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss how she creates luxury projects that meet the needs of owners. Vibha also shares the importance of collaborative empathy, the value of meticulous attention to detail, and explores Kempinski's unique approach to luxury.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves providing the highest level of service where the guest is considered supreme. For an architect, design and architecture are tools to craft unforgettable and comfortable memories for guests, emphasizing their supreme importance.
  • To gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of materials, immerse yourself in working alongside skilled tradespeople like carpenters and metal workers. Understanding how they work allows you to better utilize a material in planning. 
  • The key to success is selecting the right partners who will give proper attention to your projects and act with empathy toward the end-users. It is essential to work collaboratively to achieve the best results and support the owner's vision.
  • A successful property requires exceptional service across all locations and maintaining high standards in essential areas like breakfast and room comfort. Consideration must be given to space constraints, ensuring comfortable environments in smaller spaces.
  • While many brands have a clear and defined aesthetic that should be designed for, your job is ultimately to work with an owner to tie their vision together. Successful collaboration blends both brand design and owner desires. 
  • Hotels are ultimately an ecosystem that requires collaboration between various functions and backgrounds to function properly. Collaboration can only happen if empathetic understanding is found between employees. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We are really open to understanding what the owner and the owner's team wants to do in a project.” - Vibha Sawhney

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 Jul 2024 15:22:41 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2899 Joining the show this week is a hospitality professional who creates distinct projects that make emotional connections with guests. Please welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Construction Services at Kempinski, Vibha Sawhney.


Vibha joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss how she creates luxury projects that meet the needs of owners. Vibha also shares the importance of collaborative empathy, the value of meticulous attention to detail, and explores Kempinski's unique approach to luxury.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves providing the highest level of service where the guest is considered supreme. For an architect, design and architecture are tools to craft unforgettable and comfortable memories for guests, emphasizing their supreme importance.
  • To gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of materials, immerse yourself in working alongside skilled tradespeople like carpenters and metal workers. Understanding how they work allows you to better utilize a material in planning. 
  • The key to success is selecting the right partners who will give proper attention to your projects and act with empathy toward the end-users. It is essential to work collaboratively to achieve the best results and support the owner's vision.
  • A successful property requires exceptional service across all locations and maintaining high standards in essential areas like breakfast and room comfort. Consideration must be given to space constraints, ensuring comfortable environments in smaller spaces.
  • While many brands have a clear and defined aesthetic that should be designed for, your job is ultimately to work with an owner to tie their vision together. Successful collaboration blends both brand design and owner desires. 
  • Hotels are ultimately an ecosystem that requires collaboration between various functions and backgrounds to function properly. Collaboration can only happen if empathetic understanding is found between employees. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We are really open to understanding what the owner and the owner's team wants to do in a project.” - Vibha Sawhney

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Five Generations of Mountaintop Magic - Eric Gullickson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 160 160 160 Five Generations of Mountaintop Magic - Eric Gullickson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 160 full 50a50862-debe-41d1-af97-499f95d5cd49 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e205d93d Joining the show this week is a committed executive who cherishes the traditions of his resort, inspired by the legacy of his late family, the Smileys. Please welcome to the show The President of Mohonk Mountain House. 


Eric joins Host Dan Ryan, their conversation delves into the intricacies of managing a multi-generational family business, emphasizing sustainability and stewardship as core principles. Eric provides insights into their strategic planning initiatives and their commitment to balancing profitability with environmental and community preservation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means ensuring the comfort and contentment of every guest and anticipating their needs. It also includes understanding that every individual has a unique story and unique needs. Being fully present with guests, listening to them, and then delivering service based on what you've learned is key. This approach helps create a longing for guests to return even as they are leaving.
  • Focusing equally on sustainability and stewardship is essential. This involves balancing financial gains with the upkeep and improvement of the property. For example, reinvesting profits into maintaining the extensive infrastructure and natural landscape ensures that future generations can also appreciate the property.
  • Running a family business successfully requires balancing the needs of shareholders and stakeholders. At Mohonk, they ensure that while they make profits to stay operational, they also pay attention to nature, community, family, and history. This balance ensures that the business thrives in the long term and stays true to its founding principles.
  • A strong mission and principles are crucial for long-term success. Mohonk's mission is built on Quaker values like consensus-building, caring for people, and maintaining peace and serenity. These principles have guided the business for five generations and help to make clear, principled decisions for future sustainability.
  • Providing unique and diverse guest experiences can significantly enhance a resort's appeal. At Mohonk, they offer activities like mountain biking, hiking, and a Via Ferrata experience that allows guests to engage with the natural landscape in thrilling but low-impact ways. Such offerings ensure that the property remains a destination in itself, attracting visitors repeatedly.
  • Building consensus within the organization and the broader family is essential. Whether it's developing a strategic plan or making day-to-day decisions, involving all stakeholders ensures that everyone is on board with the vision and mission of the business. This approach has helped Mohonk sustain itself through five generations.
  • Effective resource management and reinvestment are critical. At Mohonk, all profits are reinvested back into the business to sustain its vast property and infrastructure. They focus on maintaining what they have while also planning for future expansions cautiously. This strategy ensures that the property continues to thrive and grow in a sustainable manner.


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is about anticipating and meeting guests' needs while recognizing their unique stories and individuality. In life, listening and showing compassion are essential, just as with a friend."


Links:


Shout Outs:

  • Smiley Family 
  • Quaker Traditions 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is a committed executive who cherishes the traditions of his resort, inspired by the legacy of his late family, the Smileys. Please welcome to the show The President of Mohonk Mountain House. 


Eric joins Host Dan Ryan, their conversation delves into the intricacies of managing a multi-generational family business, emphasizing sustainability and stewardship as core principles. Eric provides insights into their strategic planning initiatives and their commitment to balancing profitability with environmental and community preservation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means ensuring the comfort and contentment of every guest and anticipating their needs. It also includes understanding that every individual has a unique story and unique needs. Being fully present with guests, listening to them, and then delivering service based on what you've learned is key. This approach helps create a longing for guests to return even as they are leaving.
  • Focusing equally on sustainability and stewardship is essential. This involves balancing financial gains with the upkeep and improvement of the property. For example, reinvesting profits into maintaining the extensive infrastructure and natural landscape ensures that future generations can also appreciate the property.
  • Running a family business successfully requires balancing the needs of shareholders and stakeholders. At Mohonk, they ensure that while they make profits to stay operational, they also pay attention to nature, community, family, and history. This balance ensures that the business thrives in the long term and stays true to its founding principles.
  • A strong mission and principles are crucial for long-term success. Mohonk's mission is built on Quaker values like consensus-building, caring for people, and maintaining peace and serenity. These principles have guided the business for five generations and help to make clear, principled decisions for future sustainability.
  • Providing unique and diverse guest experiences can significantly enhance a resort's appeal. At Mohonk, they offer activities like mountain biking, hiking, and a Via Ferrata experience that allows guests to engage with the natural landscape in thrilling but low-impact ways. Such offerings ensure that the property remains a destination in itself, attracting visitors repeatedly.
  • Building consensus within the organization and the broader family is essential. Whether it's developing a strategic plan or making day-to-day decisions, involving all stakeholders ensures that everyone is on board with the vision and mission of the business. This approach has helped Mohonk sustain itself through five generations.
  • Effective resource management and reinvestment are critical. At Mohonk, all profits are reinvested back into the business to sustain its vast property and infrastructure. They focus on maintaining what they have while also planning for future expansions cautiously. This strategy ensures that the property continues to thrive and grow in a sustainable manner.


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is about anticipating and meeting guests' needs while recognizing their unique stories and individuality. In life, listening and showing compassion are essential, just as with a friend."


Links:


Shout Outs:

  • Smiley Family 
  • Quaker Traditions 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3902 Joining the show this week is a committed executive who cherishes the traditions of his resort, inspired by the legacy of his late family, the Smileys. Please welcome to the show The President of Mohonk Mountain House. 


Eric joins Host Dan Ryan, their conversation delves into the intricacies of managing a multi-generational family business, emphasizing sustainability and stewardship as core principles. Eric provides insights into their strategic planning initiatives and their commitment to balancing profitability with environmental and community preservation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means ensuring the comfort and contentment of every guest and anticipating their needs. It also includes understanding that every individual has a unique story and unique needs. Being fully present with guests, listening to them, and then delivering service based on what you've learned is key. This approach helps create a longing for guests to return even as they are leaving.
  • Focusing equally on sustainability and stewardship is essential. This involves balancing financial gains with the upkeep and improvement of the property. For example, reinvesting profits into maintaining the extensive infrastructure and natural landscape ensures that future generations can also appreciate the property.
  • Running a family business successfully requires balancing the needs of shareholders and stakeholders. At Mohonk, they ensure that while they make profits to stay operational, they also pay attention to nature, community, family, and history. This balance ensures that the business thrives in the long term and stays true to its founding principles.
  • A strong mission and principles are crucial for long-term success. Mohonk's mission is built on Quaker values like consensus-building, caring for people, and maintaining peace and serenity. These principles have guided the business for five generations and help to make clear, principled decisions for future sustainability.
  • Providing unique and diverse guest experiences can significantly enhance a resort's appeal. At Mohonk, they offer activities like mountain biking, hiking, and a Via Ferrata experience that allows guests to engage with the natural landscape in thrilling but low-impact ways. Such offerings ensure that the property remains a destination in itself, attracting visitors repeatedly.
  • Building consensus within the organization and the broader family is essential. Whether it's developing a strategic plan or making day-to-day decisions, involving all stakeholders ensures that everyone is on board with the vision and mission of the business. This approach has helped Mohonk sustain itself through five generations.
  • Effective resource management and reinvestment are critical. At Mohonk, all profits are reinvested back into the business to sustain its vast property and infrastructure. They focus on maintaining what they have while also planning for future expansions cautiously. This strategy ensures that the property continues to thrive and grow in a sustainable manner.


Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is about anticipating and meeting guests' needs while recognizing their unique stories and individuality. In life, listening and showing compassion are essential, just as with a friend."


Links:


Shout Outs:

  • Smiley Family 
  • Quaker Traditions 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Evolution Of Design - Julie Frank - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 159 159 159 The Evolution Of Design - Julie Frank - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 159 full 3c7c98a2-8dc4-4d30-bb23-b3ae7596cb88 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b1733382 Today’s guest is a creative thinker with a unique understanding of the spaces she designs. Please welcome to the show, Vice President of Design at Aspen Hospitality Julie Frank. Julie joins Host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Architect to VP. Julie discusses her philosophy on hospitality, the importance of seizing opportunities, and how to blend spaces with the environments around them.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is any act that helps make people feel like a better version of their day to day selves. By taking their experiences and enhancing whatever they are seeking, you are delivering true hospitality. 
  • Attending industry events and building relationships is crucial once you're on the ownership side or involved with a brand or development. Having contacts you can rely on to address issues as they arise is paramount. 
  • It’s important to respect the historical significance of spaces when incorporating modern brand experiences. By blending homage to the past with the unique elements of the modern brand, one can create a harmonious and impactful fusion.
  • It’s important to incorporate fun and creativity into design to engage people more effectively, rather than relying solely on teaching. In large-scale projects like museums, the visionary gestures often come from the top, with the rest focused on implementation.
  • The best way to understand frustrations in any job is to experience them from all perspectives; embrace job changes to gain a broader understanding of professional dynamics and improve your ability to work harmoniously across different sectors.
  • The ideal home-away-from-home experience is a relaxing and inviting space where one can feel at ease and explore the local area. To fully enjoy a property, guests should have both the comfort of well-designed rooms and relaxing communal spaces.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I wanted people to learn through spaces.” - Julie Frank

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a creative thinker with a unique understanding of the spaces she designs. Please welcome to the show, Vice President of Design at Aspen Hospitality Julie Frank. Julie joins Host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Architect to VP. Julie discusses her philosophy on hospitality, the importance of seizing opportunities, and how to blend spaces with the environments around them.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is any act that helps make people feel like a better version of their day to day selves. By taking their experiences and enhancing whatever they are seeking, you are delivering true hospitality. 
  • Attending industry events and building relationships is crucial once you're on the ownership side or involved with a brand or development. Having contacts you can rely on to address issues as they arise is paramount. 
  • It’s important to respect the historical significance of spaces when incorporating modern brand experiences. By blending homage to the past with the unique elements of the modern brand, one can create a harmonious and impactful fusion.
  • It’s important to incorporate fun and creativity into design to engage people more effectively, rather than relying solely on teaching. In large-scale projects like museums, the visionary gestures often come from the top, with the rest focused on implementation.
  • The best way to understand frustrations in any job is to experience them from all perspectives; embrace job changes to gain a broader understanding of professional dynamics and improve your ability to work harmoniously across different sectors.
  • The ideal home-away-from-home experience is a relaxing and inviting space where one can feel at ease and explore the local area. To fully enjoy a property, guests should have both the comfort of well-designed rooms and relaxing communal spaces.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I wanted people to learn through spaces.” - Julie Frank

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3111 Today’s guest is a creative thinker with a unique understanding of the spaces she designs. Please welcome to the show, Vice President of Design at Aspen Hospitality Julie Frank. Julie joins Host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Architect to VP. Julie discusses her philosophy on hospitality, the importance of seizing opportunities, and how to blend spaces with the environments around them.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is any act that helps make people feel like a better version of their day to day selves. By taking their experiences and enhancing whatever they are seeking, you are delivering true hospitality. 
  • Attending industry events and building relationships is crucial once you're on the ownership side or involved with a brand or development. Having contacts you can rely on to address issues as they arise is paramount. 
  • It’s important to respect the historical significance of spaces when incorporating modern brand experiences. By blending homage to the past with the unique elements of the modern brand, one can create a harmonious and impactful fusion.
  • It’s important to incorporate fun and creativity into design to engage people more effectively, rather than relying solely on teaching. In large-scale projects like museums, the visionary gestures often come from the top, with the rest focused on implementation.
  • The best way to understand frustrations in any job is to experience them from all perspectives; embrace job changes to gain a broader understanding of professional dynamics and improve your ability to work harmoniously across different sectors.
  • The ideal home-away-from-home experience is a relaxing and inviting space where one can feel at ease and explore the local area. To fully enjoy a property, guests should have both the comfort of well-designed rooms and relaxing communal spaces.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I wanted people to learn through spaces.” - Julie Frank

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Telling A Brand’s Story - Kristen Freeland - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 158 158 158 Telling A Brand’s Story - Kristen Freeland - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 158 full 41398ccc-f1f8-44d7-9ddc-b90d7ec1fdc2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5a596310 Joining the show this week is an award-winning brand innovator who is responsible for the design and experiences across most of IHGs family of brands. Please welcome to the show A Director of Design Strategies at IHG, Kristen Freeland!


Kristen joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the nuances of telling stories. Kristen shares the importance of mentorship programs, the best ways to get customer feedback, and the need to cater to different audiences. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about telling a story. Regardless if you are creating a new story, or breathing life into an old one, the intent is to tell a story and deliver it successfully to your guests. 
  • To effectively cater to your audience, first understand their needs by gathering insights, and then develop and test solutions. Ensure your projects are guided by clear, focused briefs that align with your success metrics to avoid losing direction.
  • To better understand customer preferences, engage directly with your target audience to gather valuable insights. Real-life dialogue and firsthand observation are crucial in confirming whether your strategy and design efforts meet customer needs.
  • Seek opportunities where you can work closely with industry leaders and immerse yourself in real-world business environments that aren't taught in college. The hands-on experience gained from these situations will boost your professional courage.
  • Nurturing and maintaining relationships is crucial in hospitality, as they form the foundation of your professional network. Make it a priority to stay connected, meet new people, and keep learning about new things to thrive in the hospitality industry. 
  • In the strategy world, continual innovation prevents work from feeling monotonous and keeps things exciting. Embrace the idea that nothing is off the table, as new challenges constantly emerge once solutions are found.

Quote of the Show:

  • “When your target guests and target audience are telling you, ‘Hey, there's other ways that you could appeal to me.’ It's important that we listen to that and that we evolve with them.” - Kristen Freeland

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is an award-winning brand innovator who is responsible for the design and experiences across most of IHGs family of brands. Please welcome to the show A Director of Design Strategies at IHG, Kristen Freeland!


Kristen joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the nuances of telling stories. Kristen shares the importance of mentorship programs, the best ways to get customer feedback, and the need to cater to different audiences. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about telling a story. Regardless if you are creating a new story, or breathing life into an old one, the intent is to tell a story and deliver it successfully to your guests. 
  • To effectively cater to your audience, first understand their needs by gathering insights, and then develop and test solutions. Ensure your projects are guided by clear, focused briefs that align with your success metrics to avoid losing direction.
  • To better understand customer preferences, engage directly with your target audience to gather valuable insights. Real-life dialogue and firsthand observation are crucial in confirming whether your strategy and design efforts meet customer needs.
  • Seek opportunities where you can work closely with industry leaders and immerse yourself in real-world business environments that aren't taught in college. The hands-on experience gained from these situations will boost your professional courage.
  • Nurturing and maintaining relationships is crucial in hospitality, as they form the foundation of your professional network. Make it a priority to stay connected, meet new people, and keep learning about new things to thrive in the hospitality industry. 
  • In the strategy world, continual innovation prevents work from feeling monotonous and keeps things exciting. Embrace the idea that nothing is off the table, as new challenges constantly emerge once solutions are found.

Quote of the Show:

  • “When your target guests and target audience are telling you, ‘Hey, there's other ways that you could appeal to me.’ It's important that we listen to that and that we evolve with them.” - Kristen Freeland

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:32:01 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3539 Joining the show this week is an award-winning brand innovator who is responsible for the design and experiences across most of IHGs family of brands. Please welcome to the show A Director of Design Strategies at IHG, Kristen Freeland!


Kristen joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the nuances of telling stories. Kristen shares the importance of mentorship programs, the best ways to get customer feedback, and the need to cater to different audiences. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about telling a story. Regardless if you are creating a new story, or breathing life into an old one, the intent is to tell a story and deliver it successfully to your guests. 
  • To effectively cater to your audience, first understand their needs by gathering insights, and then develop and test solutions. Ensure your projects are guided by clear, focused briefs that align with your success metrics to avoid losing direction.
  • To better understand customer preferences, engage directly with your target audience to gather valuable insights. Real-life dialogue and firsthand observation are crucial in confirming whether your strategy and design efforts meet customer needs.
  • Seek opportunities where you can work closely with industry leaders and immerse yourself in real-world business environments that aren't taught in college. The hands-on experience gained from these situations will boost your professional courage.
  • Nurturing and maintaining relationships is crucial in hospitality, as they form the foundation of your professional network. Make it a priority to stay connected, meet new people, and keep learning about new things to thrive in the hospitality industry. 
  • In the strategy world, continual innovation prevents work from feeling monotonous and keeps things exciting. Embrace the idea that nothing is off the table, as new challenges constantly emerge once solutions are found.

Quote of the Show:

  • “When your target guests and target audience are telling you, ‘Hey, there's other ways that you could appeal to me.’ It's important that we listen to that and that we evolve with them.” - Kristen Freeland

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Crossing The Threshold Of Hospitality - Eran Chen - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 157 157 157 Crossing The Threshold Of Hospitality - Eran Chen - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 157 full fb67eccc-e60c-438d-ab8b-42e18b21fb29 https://share.transistor.fm/s/93f4b2ec In this engaging episode, Dan sits down with Eran Chen, renowned architect and the founder of ODA. Chen discusses his journey from starting his own firm in 2007 to becoming an influential figure in urban design, teaching at Columbia and NYU. The conversation dives into the significance of hospitality in architecture and the importance of saying 'yes' to various opportunities. Eranalso explores his innovative concepts like the 'Flying Dormer' and shares insights into his books.. They discuss the importance of understanding zoning laws, balancing creativity with regulations, and envisioning a more sustainable, connected future for urban living.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has evolved from offering a uniform "home away from home" experience to providing authentic, culturally rich interactions that reflect local customs and traditions. Embracing this cultural authenticity in designs creates unique experiences for visitors.
  • Embrace the journey of unknowns in your professional pursuits, as it can lead to amazing and impactful work. Stay true to your core beliefs and principles despite challenges and assignments, as they refine and strengthen your practice.
  • When running a firm and taking on new clients, it's crucial to ensure mutual respect and collaboration, seeing clients as partners in the creative process. Decline projects where clients do not value this process of discovery, even if they offer the biggest commissions.
  • The key to defining yourself in a noisy world is to genuinely understand what drives you, and then find effective ways to convey that authenticity. Embrace the gaps in your creative journey, as these transitional spaces are where true innovation occurs.
  • Intergenerational collaboration fosters personal growth and enriches project outcomes. By acting as both leader and collaborator, one can guide and provide valuable feedback, mirroring the relationship between a good professor and their students.
  • Don't be discouraged by regulations. Instead, understanding the rules allows you to creatively break them. Mastering the tools at hand is essential for architects, regardless of location.

Quote of the Show:

  • “As we go along we don't know where we're going and we love that.” - Eran Chen

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this engaging episode, Dan sits down with Eran Chen, renowned architect and the founder of ODA. Chen discusses his journey from starting his own firm in 2007 to becoming an influential figure in urban design, teaching at Columbia and NYU. The conversation dives into the significance of hospitality in architecture and the importance of saying 'yes' to various opportunities. Eranalso explores his innovative concepts like the 'Flying Dormer' and shares insights into his books.. They discuss the importance of understanding zoning laws, balancing creativity with regulations, and envisioning a more sustainable, connected future for urban living.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has evolved from offering a uniform "home away from home" experience to providing authentic, culturally rich interactions that reflect local customs and traditions. Embracing this cultural authenticity in designs creates unique experiences for visitors.
  • Embrace the journey of unknowns in your professional pursuits, as it can lead to amazing and impactful work. Stay true to your core beliefs and principles despite challenges and assignments, as they refine and strengthen your practice.
  • When running a firm and taking on new clients, it's crucial to ensure mutual respect and collaboration, seeing clients as partners in the creative process. Decline projects where clients do not value this process of discovery, even if they offer the biggest commissions.
  • The key to defining yourself in a noisy world is to genuinely understand what drives you, and then find effective ways to convey that authenticity. Embrace the gaps in your creative journey, as these transitional spaces are where true innovation occurs.
  • Intergenerational collaboration fosters personal growth and enriches project outcomes. By acting as both leader and collaborator, one can guide and provide valuable feedback, mirroring the relationship between a good professor and their students.
  • Don't be discouraged by regulations. Instead, understanding the rules allows you to creatively break them. Mastering the tools at hand is essential for architects, regardless of location.

Quote of the Show:

  • “As we go along we don't know where we're going and we love that.” - Eran Chen

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Jun 2024 02:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3692 In this engaging episode, Dan sits down with Eran Chen, renowned architect and the founder of ODA. Chen discusses his journey from starting his own firm in 2007 to becoming an influential figure in urban design, teaching at Columbia and NYU. The conversation dives into the significance of hospitality in architecture and the importance of saying 'yes' to various opportunities. Eranalso explores his innovative concepts like the 'Flying Dormer' and shares insights into his books.. They discuss the importance of understanding zoning laws, balancing creativity with regulations, and envisioning a more sustainable, connected future for urban living.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has evolved from offering a uniform "home away from home" experience to providing authentic, culturally rich interactions that reflect local customs and traditions. Embracing this cultural authenticity in designs creates unique experiences for visitors.
  • Embrace the journey of unknowns in your professional pursuits, as it can lead to amazing and impactful work. Stay true to your core beliefs and principles despite challenges and assignments, as they refine and strengthen your practice.
  • When running a firm and taking on new clients, it's crucial to ensure mutual respect and collaboration, seeing clients as partners in the creative process. Decline projects where clients do not value this process of discovery, even if they offer the biggest commissions.
  • The key to defining yourself in a noisy world is to genuinely understand what drives you, and then find effective ways to convey that authenticity. Embrace the gaps in your creative journey, as these transitional spaces are where true innovation occurs.
  • Intergenerational collaboration fosters personal growth and enriches project outcomes. By acting as both leader and collaborator, one can guide and provide valuable feedback, mirroring the relationship between a good professor and their students.
  • Don't be discouraged by regulations. Instead, understanding the rules allows you to creatively break them. Mastering the tools at hand is essential for architects, regardless of location.

Quote of the Show:

  • “As we go along we don't know where we're going and we love that.” - Eran Chen

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Building A Legacy Of Hospitality - John Hardy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 156 156 156 Building A Legacy Of Hospitality - John Hardy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 156 full 889dbc1b-7ef1-4a65-9d9d-740b0a64feb0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3bbae1a3 Joining the show this week is an industry titan who is shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals. Our guest is none other than Founder of the Radical Innovation hospitality awards, Founder and Chairman of the Hardy Group, John Hardy!


John joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the importance of innovation and creativity. John reflects on his journey, the challenges, and triumphs of innovative hospitality development, and the future trends shaping the industry. Discover his insights on creating unique, experiential hotels and the importance of continual innovation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about how you treat guests whether they are in your house or hotel. It is about making them feel comfortable, providing for their needs, and surprising them with extras. 
  • Innovation in the hotel industry often comes from outsiders rather than industry insiders, encouraging radical thinking. Creativity thrives when intuition guides decision-making, paving the way for unconventional ideas to flourish.
  • Innovation often arises from challenging industry norms and embracing creativity. Embrace unconventional thinking and foster a culture of innovation to drive progress and success in your endeavors.
  • The shift towards experiential accommodations like AutoCamp and Airbnb reflects a growing trend among younger consumers who are less brand loyal. To stay competitive, big brands are adapting to offer unique experiences tailored to this trend.
  • Embrace risk, dedication, and innovative ideas to drive success. The people who will drive the industry forward are those who are willing to put in the time and effort and aren’t afraid to risk failure. 
  • In challenging times with fluctuating interest rates, it's an opportunity to elevate deal-making skills and seize smarter opportunities for future success. Success lies in mastering both the risk and reward game throughout fluctuating cycles.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I never let somebody second guess what I thought was the right thing to do.” - John Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is an industry titan who is shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals. Our guest is none other than Founder of the Radical Innovation hospitality awards, Founder and Chairman of the Hardy Group, John Hardy!


John joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the importance of innovation and creativity. John reflects on his journey, the challenges, and triumphs of innovative hospitality development, and the future trends shaping the industry. Discover his insights on creating unique, experiential hotels and the importance of continual innovation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about how you treat guests whether they are in your house or hotel. It is about making them feel comfortable, providing for their needs, and surprising them with extras. 
  • Innovation in the hotel industry often comes from outsiders rather than industry insiders, encouraging radical thinking. Creativity thrives when intuition guides decision-making, paving the way for unconventional ideas to flourish.
  • Innovation often arises from challenging industry norms and embracing creativity. Embrace unconventional thinking and foster a culture of innovation to drive progress and success in your endeavors.
  • The shift towards experiential accommodations like AutoCamp and Airbnb reflects a growing trend among younger consumers who are less brand loyal. To stay competitive, big brands are adapting to offer unique experiences tailored to this trend.
  • Embrace risk, dedication, and innovative ideas to drive success. The people who will drive the industry forward are those who are willing to put in the time and effort and aren’t afraid to risk failure. 
  • In challenging times with fluctuating interest rates, it's an opportunity to elevate deal-making skills and seize smarter opportunities for future success. Success lies in mastering both the risk and reward game throughout fluctuating cycles.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I never let somebody second guess what I thought was the right thing to do.” - John Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3980 Joining the show this week is an industry titan who is shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals. Our guest is none other than Founder of the Radical Innovation hospitality awards, Founder and Chairman of the Hardy Group, John Hardy!


John joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the importance of innovation and creativity. John reflects on his journey, the challenges, and triumphs of innovative hospitality development, and the future trends shaping the industry. Discover his insights on creating unique, experiential hotels and the importance of continual innovation.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about how you treat guests whether they are in your house or hotel. It is about making them feel comfortable, providing for their needs, and surprising them with extras. 
  • Innovation in the hotel industry often comes from outsiders rather than industry insiders, encouraging radical thinking. Creativity thrives when intuition guides decision-making, paving the way for unconventional ideas to flourish.
  • Innovation often arises from challenging industry norms and embracing creativity. Embrace unconventional thinking and foster a culture of innovation to drive progress and success in your endeavors.
  • The shift towards experiential accommodations like AutoCamp and Airbnb reflects a growing trend among younger consumers who are less brand loyal. To stay competitive, big brands are adapting to offer unique experiences tailored to this trend.
  • Embrace risk, dedication, and innovative ideas to drive success. The people who will drive the industry forward are those who are willing to put in the time and effort and aren’t afraid to risk failure. 
  • In challenging times with fluctuating interest rates, it's an opportunity to elevate deal-making skills and seize smarter opportunities for future success. Success lies in mastering both the risk and reward game throughout fluctuating cycles.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I never let somebody second guess what I thought was the right thing to do.” - John Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Crafting Stories in Luxury - Michael Doneff - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 155 155 155 Crafting Stories in Luxury - Michael Doneff - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 155 full 425a8d63-988d-4d64-8859-a977fa880061 https://share.transistor.fm/s/aabae97f Hospitality is about intuition and reading the customer. Are you doing too much, or are you not doing enough for them? The guest on this episode has left an impact on leading luxury lifestyle brands in hospitality, food and beverage, design, and wellness over the course of his 30-year career. Please welcome the Vice President of Food and Beverage Concept and Brand Development at the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Michael Doneff.


Michaell joins Dan Ryan as they discuss the significance of a unique dining experience. Michael shares the power of storytelling in brand development, the importance of company culture, and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Customers want to come into an environment where they feel understood, appreciated, and heard. Your job is to create an experience that exceeds their expectations.
  • For early-stage brands, everything boils down to storytelling, and you get to see that story come to life from the name to the logo.
  • If a brand is constructed correctly and thoughtfully, then it's usually meant to last. But it's only as good as its execution.
  • A brand should check off all the boxes, even in the small areas of hospitality. Making sure that their employees are genuine, truly love what they do, and love taking care of their guests.
  • An employee should have intuitive skills to know what the customer needs and if they could be doing more for them, but they should also know what the customer doesn't need and if they’re doing too much.
  • As a brand, you should strive to have your mission statement and values be true throughout every level of your company, and every team member should be living out these things.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions, push boundaries, and try things, but also don't be afraid to fail at them and find a new way of trying to do things.

Quote of the Show:  

  • “We’re in a world where you can tell when things are scripted.” - Michael Doneff

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality is about intuition and reading the customer. Are you doing too much, or are you not doing enough for them? The guest on this episode has left an impact on leading luxury lifestyle brands in hospitality, food and beverage, design, and wellness over the course of his 30-year career. Please welcome the Vice President of Food and Beverage Concept and Brand Development at the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Michael Doneff.


Michaell joins Dan Ryan as they discuss the significance of a unique dining experience. Michael shares the power of storytelling in brand development, the importance of company culture, and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Customers want to come into an environment where they feel understood, appreciated, and heard. Your job is to create an experience that exceeds their expectations.
  • For early-stage brands, everything boils down to storytelling, and you get to see that story come to life from the name to the logo.
  • If a brand is constructed correctly and thoughtfully, then it's usually meant to last. But it's only as good as its execution.
  • A brand should check off all the boxes, even in the small areas of hospitality. Making sure that their employees are genuine, truly love what they do, and love taking care of their guests.
  • An employee should have intuitive skills to know what the customer needs and if they could be doing more for them, but they should also know what the customer doesn't need and if they’re doing too much.
  • As a brand, you should strive to have your mission statement and values be true throughout every level of your company, and every team member should be living out these things.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions, push boundaries, and try things, but also don't be afraid to fail at them and find a new way of trying to do things.

Quote of the Show:  

  • “We’re in a world where you can tell when things are scripted.” - Michael Doneff

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3829 Hospitality is about intuition and reading the customer. Are you doing too much, or are you not doing enough for them? The guest on this episode has left an impact on leading luxury lifestyle brands in hospitality, food and beverage, design, and wellness over the course of his 30-year career. Please welcome the Vice President of Food and Beverage Concept and Brand Development at the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Michael Doneff.


Michaell joins Dan Ryan as they discuss the significance of a unique dining experience. Michael shares the power of storytelling in brand development, the importance of company culture, and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Customers want to come into an environment where they feel understood, appreciated, and heard. Your job is to create an experience that exceeds their expectations.
  • For early-stage brands, everything boils down to storytelling, and you get to see that story come to life from the name to the logo.
  • If a brand is constructed correctly and thoughtfully, then it's usually meant to last. But it's only as good as its execution.
  • A brand should check off all the boxes, even in the small areas of hospitality. Making sure that their employees are genuine, truly love what they do, and love taking care of their guests.
  • An employee should have intuitive skills to know what the customer needs and if they could be doing more for them, but they should also know what the customer doesn't need and if they’re doing too much.
  • As a brand, you should strive to have your mission statement and values be true throughout every level of your company, and every team member should be living out these things.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions, push boundaries, and try things, but also don't be afraid to fail at them and find a new way of trying to do things.

Quote of the Show:  

  • “We’re in a world where you can tell when things are scripted.” - Michael Doneff

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Reimagining Spaces - Jun Aizaki - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 154 154 154 Reimagining Spaces - Jun Aizaki - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 154 full 705c374b-16bb-4da6-8466-68f25ce74c75 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b45d97ab
For a vision to come to fruition, there must be a level of persistence to make it happen. Here to share his insight is a designer skilled in interior and custom furniture. Please welcome the Owner and Founder of CRÈME, Jun Aizaki.


Host Dan Ryan and guest Jun Aizaki discuss CRÈME’s award winning Gourd project. Jun dives into how he finds inspiration for new projects, shares his early career and what led him to be a successful designer, and reveals advice to future innovators on the mentality needed to be successful.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality revolves around the service you provide for guests, and the problems you solve for them. By providing meaningful solutions, you make someone’s life richer, more interesting, and more practical.
  • Persistence is key when it comes to stating your vision. Having the mentality of not taking no for an answer goes a long way, by forcing yourself to try different directions, you may stumble upon new solutions. 
  • When it comes to working towards what you want, you may have to put in extra time and effort. While it may not be time that your getting paid for, if you continue to put in the extra hours, the results will pay off
  • When creating a new project, inspiration should come from the uniqueness of the environment around you. Each design should tell a story and be special in order to capture the eyes of others.
  • Creativity can strike at any moment, and having a way to capture it is crucial. Keeping a sketchbook or digital tablet on you at all times allows you to put pen to paper whenever an idea pops into mind. 
  • The gourd project was born out of a need to replace single use plastic drinking cups in the hospitality industry. By growing a gourd in a cup shaped mold, you are left with a disposable option that biodegrades safely. 
  • Good design comes from the minds of many, rather than a solo visionary. Encouraging communication and empowering your team creates products that draw on the strength of diverse backgrounds.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you can dream something up, there's always a way to get there.” - Jun Aizaki

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]>
For a vision to come to fruition, there must be a level of persistence to make it happen. Here to share his insight is a designer skilled in interior and custom furniture. Please welcome the Owner and Founder of CRÈME, Jun Aizaki.


Host Dan Ryan and guest Jun Aizaki discuss CRÈME’s award winning Gourd project. Jun dives into how he finds inspiration for new projects, shares his early career and what led him to be a successful designer, and reveals advice to future innovators on the mentality needed to be successful.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality revolves around the service you provide for guests, and the problems you solve for them. By providing meaningful solutions, you make someone’s life richer, more interesting, and more practical.
  • Persistence is key when it comes to stating your vision. Having the mentality of not taking no for an answer goes a long way, by forcing yourself to try different directions, you may stumble upon new solutions. 
  • When it comes to working towards what you want, you may have to put in extra time and effort. While it may not be time that your getting paid for, if you continue to put in the extra hours, the results will pay off
  • When creating a new project, inspiration should come from the uniqueness of the environment around you. Each design should tell a story and be special in order to capture the eyes of others.
  • Creativity can strike at any moment, and having a way to capture it is crucial. Keeping a sketchbook or digital tablet on you at all times allows you to put pen to paper whenever an idea pops into mind. 
  • The gourd project was born out of a need to replace single use plastic drinking cups in the hospitality industry. By growing a gourd in a cup shaped mold, you are left with a disposable option that biodegrades safely. 
  • Good design comes from the minds of many, rather than a solo visionary. Encouraging communication and empowering your team creates products that draw on the strength of diverse backgrounds.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you can dream something up, there's always a way to get there.” - Jun Aizaki

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4147
For a vision to come to fruition, there must be a level of persistence to make it happen. Here to share his insight is a designer skilled in interior and custom furniture. Please welcome the Owner and Founder of CRÈME, Jun Aizaki.


Host Dan Ryan and guest Jun Aizaki discuss CRÈME’s award winning Gourd project. Jun dives into how he finds inspiration for new projects, shares his early career and what led him to be a successful designer, and reveals advice to future innovators on the mentality needed to be successful.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality revolves around the service you provide for guests, and the problems you solve for them. By providing meaningful solutions, you make someone’s life richer, more interesting, and more practical.
  • Persistence is key when it comes to stating your vision. Having the mentality of not taking no for an answer goes a long way, by forcing yourself to try different directions, you may stumble upon new solutions. 
  • When it comes to working towards what you want, you may have to put in extra time and effort. While it may not be time that your getting paid for, if you continue to put in the extra hours, the results will pay off
  • When creating a new project, inspiration should come from the uniqueness of the environment around you. Each design should tell a story and be special in order to capture the eyes of others.
  • Creativity can strike at any moment, and having a way to capture it is crucial. Keeping a sketchbook or digital tablet on you at all times allows you to put pen to paper whenever an idea pops into mind. 
  • The gourd project was born out of a need to replace single use plastic drinking cups in the hospitality industry. By growing a gourd in a cup shaped mold, you are left with a disposable option that biodegrades safely. 
  • Good design comes from the minds of many, rather than a solo visionary. Encouraging communication and empowering your team creates products that draw on the strength of diverse backgrounds.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you can dream something up, there's always a way to get there.” - Jun Aizaki

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Investing In The Guest Experience - Keith Brenan- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 153 153 153 Investing In The Guest Experience - Keith Brenan- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 153 full 0996eb62-d36e-40d4-a216-d04203fb6a01 https://share.transistor.fm/s/adb42077 As an advisor, helping guide your clients to the project of their dreams can be challenging yet rewarding. Here to shed light on the advisory process is a Principal and Managing Director at Weitzman, Keith Brenan! 


Keith joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the nuances of investing in hospitality properties, and some of the many considerations that clients may have. Keith also shares the difference between institutional and mom and pop investors, the best way to mix hospitality and office space, and how to pick the perfect amenities. 

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality touches on many different aspects, at its core, it is about welcoming and understanding. Hospitality is about the ability to welcome into a space and exceed their expectations in terms of what they expect from human interaction. 
  • Hospitality as an investment class presents some unique challenges. As your tenants are essentially checking in and out on a daily basis, quality amenities alone don’t cut it. To truly make hospitality excel as an investment, the human element must be there.
  • Advisors see two typical types of investors, institutional and mom and pop investors. Institutional investors are typically assessing if they want to get involved with hospitality, while mom and pop investors already have a vision and need help implementing it. 
  • Having the right amenities makes a great project. By tying the value of the amenity to the development of the building creates a cohesive experience for guests. Unique amenities serve as a focal point for guests when choosing a place to stay. 
  • Many investors are not only considering the current role of a hospitality asset, but how the building may need to transform over the years. As topics like adaptive reuse become more popular, more investors are looking for flexible assets. 
  • When mixing hospitality and office space in a single building, hospitality needs to be on the top half, however, elevated lobbies present unique challenges. Consider how guests enter the building, and simplify the path they take to get to the lobby. 
  • As an advisor, your main role is to show people all the details and help them make an informed decision. While telling someone no on a project can be disappointing, it’s better than letting someone go down a path towards eventual failure. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a way of welcoming and it's a way of understanding. It's providing human interaction often in a physical space.” - Keith Brenan

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> As an advisor, helping guide your clients to the project of their dreams can be challenging yet rewarding. Here to shed light on the advisory process is a Principal and Managing Director at Weitzman, Keith Brenan! 


Keith joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the nuances of investing in hospitality properties, and some of the many considerations that clients may have. Keith also shares the difference between institutional and mom and pop investors, the best way to mix hospitality and office space, and how to pick the perfect amenities. 

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality touches on many different aspects, at its core, it is about welcoming and understanding. Hospitality is about the ability to welcome into a space and exceed their expectations in terms of what they expect from human interaction. 
  • Hospitality as an investment class presents some unique challenges. As your tenants are essentially checking in and out on a daily basis, quality amenities alone don’t cut it. To truly make hospitality excel as an investment, the human element must be there.
  • Advisors see two typical types of investors, institutional and mom and pop investors. Institutional investors are typically assessing if they want to get involved with hospitality, while mom and pop investors already have a vision and need help implementing it. 
  • Having the right amenities makes a great project. By tying the value of the amenity to the development of the building creates a cohesive experience for guests. Unique amenities serve as a focal point for guests when choosing a place to stay. 
  • Many investors are not only considering the current role of a hospitality asset, but how the building may need to transform over the years. As topics like adaptive reuse become more popular, more investors are looking for flexible assets. 
  • When mixing hospitality and office space in a single building, hospitality needs to be on the top half, however, elevated lobbies present unique challenges. Consider how guests enter the building, and simplify the path they take to get to the lobby. 
  • As an advisor, your main role is to show people all the details and help them make an informed decision. While telling someone no on a project can be disappointing, it’s better than letting someone go down a path towards eventual failure. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a way of welcoming and it's a way of understanding. It's providing human interaction often in a physical space.” - Keith Brenan

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3829 As an advisor, helping guide your clients to the project of their dreams can be challenging yet rewarding. Here to shed light on the advisory process is a Principal and Managing Director at Weitzman, Keith Brenan! 


Keith joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the nuances of investing in hospitality properties, and some of the many considerations that clients may have. Keith also shares the difference between institutional and mom and pop investors, the best way to mix hospitality and office space, and how to pick the perfect amenities. 

Takeaways: 

  • While hospitality touches on many different aspects, at its core, it is about welcoming and understanding. Hospitality is about the ability to welcome into a space and exceed their expectations in terms of what they expect from human interaction. 
  • Hospitality as an investment class presents some unique challenges. As your tenants are essentially checking in and out on a daily basis, quality amenities alone don’t cut it. To truly make hospitality excel as an investment, the human element must be there.
  • Advisors see two typical types of investors, institutional and mom and pop investors. Institutional investors are typically assessing if they want to get involved with hospitality, while mom and pop investors already have a vision and need help implementing it. 
  • Having the right amenities makes a great project. By tying the value of the amenity to the development of the building creates a cohesive experience for guests. Unique amenities serve as a focal point for guests when choosing a place to stay. 
  • Many investors are not only considering the current role of a hospitality asset, but how the building may need to transform over the years. As topics like adaptive reuse become more popular, more investors are looking for flexible assets. 
  • When mixing hospitality and office space in a single building, hospitality needs to be on the top half, however, elevated lobbies present unique challenges. Consider how guests enter the building, and simplify the path they take to get to the lobby. 
  • As an advisor, your main role is to show people all the details and help them make an informed decision. While telling someone no on a project can be disappointing, it’s better than letting someone go down a path towards eventual failure. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a way of welcoming and it's a way of understanding. It's providing human interaction often in a physical space.” - Keith Brenan

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Showing Up With Intent - Hemanshu Parwani - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 152 152 152 Showing Up With Intent - Hemanshu Parwani - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 152 full 3971bb28-0ed9-446b-b539-54aa229c31ea https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0618cc2 Our guest this week has over 30 years of hospitality experience in international operations, capital markets, and strategic development. Please welcome to the show, CEO and Owner of Olson Kundig, Hemanshu Parwani!


Hemanshu joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the importance of showing up with intent. Hemanshu shares why designers should chase meaningful work rather than all out growth, the need to take care of those who take care of others, and how mountaineering inspires his work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality for many, comes close to being a religion. Built out of a devotion to caring for others, hospitality is about how you make someone feel in a space, and how you build memories with them. 
  • When in a space, people are either thinking about what memories this space reminds them of, or how the space will build new memories for them. Building spaces around the formation of memories will leave guests with unforgettable experiences. 
  • A guaranteed way to make your guests remember your experiences is by making them feel as if they were one of your group. Allowing your guests to feel like they can be their authentic selves creates satisfaction.
  • The ethos of being an innkeeper is taking care of people. Care extends not just to your guests, but the people who are taking care of your guests. A team that is well cared for will provide even better service to guests. 
  • Everything you do should be with intent. Knowing why you are doing something is the foundation to any action. Good design comes from an intimate understanding of why you are designing. 
  • While growth is good, it should not be the end all to your pursuits. Chase aspirational, meaningful work in design, and growth will follow. Instead of simply seeking to grow, seek a challenge that forces you to work creatively.
  • Mutual learning is an important aspect of design, and helps you be more intentional about what you do. Keeping an open mind and showing genuine interest in other’s work allows you to learn quickly. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Growth is not something that we are chasing. We are chasing aspirational, meaningful work in design.” - Hemanshu Parwani

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week has over 30 years of hospitality experience in international operations, capital markets, and strategic development. Please welcome to the show, CEO and Owner of Olson Kundig, Hemanshu Parwani!


Hemanshu joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the importance of showing up with intent. Hemanshu shares why designers should chase meaningful work rather than all out growth, the need to take care of those who take care of others, and how mountaineering inspires his work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality for many, comes close to being a religion. Built out of a devotion to caring for others, hospitality is about how you make someone feel in a space, and how you build memories with them. 
  • When in a space, people are either thinking about what memories this space reminds them of, or how the space will build new memories for them. Building spaces around the formation of memories will leave guests with unforgettable experiences. 
  • A guaranteed way to make your guests remember your experiences is by making them feel as if they were one of your group. Allowing your guests to feel like they can be their authentic selves creates satisfaction.
  • The ethos of being an innkeeper is taking care of people. Care extends not just to your guests, but the people who are taking care of your guests. A team that is well cared for will provide even better service to guests. 
  • Everything you do should be with intent. Knowing why you are doing something is the foundation to any action. Good design comes from an intimate understanding of why you are designing. 
  • While growth is good, it should not be the end all to your pursuits. Chase aspirational, meaningful work in design, and growth will follow. Instead of simply seeking to grow, seek a challenge that forces you to work creatively.
  • Mutual learning is an important aspect of design, and helps you be more intentional about what you do. Keeping an open mind and showing genuine interest in other’s work allows you to learn quickly. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Growth is not something that we are chasing. We are chasing aspirational, meaningful work in design.” - Hemanshu Parwani

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3793 Our guest this week has over 30 years of hospitality experience in international operations, capital markets, and strategic development. Please welcome to the show, CEO and Owner of Olson Kundig, Hemanshu Parwani!


Hemanshu joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the importance of showing up with intent. Hemanshu shares why designers should chase meaningful work rather than all out growth, the need to take care of those who take care of others, and how mountaineering inspires his work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality for many, comes close to being a religion. Built out of a devotion to caring for others, hospitality is about how you make someone feel in a space, and how you build memories with them. 
  • When in a space, people are either thinking about what memories this space reminds them of, or how the space will build new memories for them. Building spaces around the formation of memories will leave guests with unforgettable experiences. 
  • A guaranteed way to make your guests remember your experiences is by making them feel as if they were one of your group. Allowing your guests to feel like they can be their authentic selves creates satisfaction.
  • The ethos of being an innkeeper is taking care of people. Care extends not just to your guests, but the people who are taking care of your guests. A team that is well cared for will provide even better service to guests. 
  • Everything you do should be with intent. Knowing why you are doing something is the foundation to any action. Good design comes from an intimate understanding of why you are designing. 
  • While growth is good, it should not be the end all to your pursuits. Chase aspirational, meaningful work in design, and growth will follow. Instead of simply seeking to grow, seek a challenge that forces you to work creatively.
  • Mutual learning is an important aspect of design, and helps you be more intentional about what you do. Keeping an open mind and showing genuine interest in other’s work allows you to learn quickly. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Growth is not something that we are chasing. We are chasing aspirational, meaningful work in design.” - Hemanshu Parwani

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Detox, Destress, And Discover - Leon Emmett - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 151 151 151 Detox, Destress, And Discover - Leon Emmett - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 151 full ce9541d0-c1f0-45cf-b241-200aa2ecb9d4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5fd41db2 This week’s guest helps people detox, destress, and discover while surrounded by nature. Through meditation, breathwork, yoga, workshops, and more, he creates an environment of rejuvenation. Joining the show this week is Founder of Onze Retreats, Leon Emmett!


Leon dials in from the Jungle to join Host Dan Ryan on a journey of hospitality and self reflection. Leon shares the importance of motivating others through action, the need to trust the process, and why everyone should spend time outside of their comfort zone. 

Takeaways: 

  • The deepest feeling of hospitality can be felt when you are in someone’s family home. When someone opens their home to you, they are opening their heart to you and showing warmth and unconditional love. 
  • Healing retreats allow people an opportunity for more than just a relaxing day of yoga and meditation. Creating a welcoming space allows for guests to self reflect and realize their own potential for growth. 
  • Despite motivational words, many people need to make the decision to change of their own volition. Rather than merely provide motivation, living your values and inspiring others through your own actions can help them take the next step. 
  • Hospitality attracts people from all walks of life, and having services to reflect that is important. Having a written list or experience portfolio allows guests to customize their ideal retreat. 
  • As life ebbs and flows, it’s important to trust the process. As there are highs and lows, observe what is happening and choose to be in the middle. Making the best of your situation helps keep you grounded. 
  • It’s only when you’re out of your comfort zone when you start to experience what’s possible. Through guidance, you can try new experiences and open yourself up to vulnerability, paving the way for improvement. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Where do we spend most of our time and how much of our time do we spend on the periphery of our comfort zone?” - Leon Emmett

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> This week’s guest helps people detox, destress, and discover while surrounded by nature. Through meditation, breathwork, yoga, workshops, and more, he creates an environment of rejuvenation. Joining the show this week is Founder of Onze Retreats, Leon Emmett!


Leon dials in from the Jungle to join Host Dan Ryan on a journey of hospitality and self reflection. Leon shares the importance of motivating others through action, the need to trust the process, and why everyone should spend time outside of their comfort zone. 

Takeaways: 

  • The deepest feeling of hospitality can be felt when you are in someone’s family home. When someone opens their home to you, they are opening their heart to you and showing warmth and unconditional love. 
  • Healing retreats allow people an opportunity for more than just a relaxing day of yoga and meditation. Creating a welcoming space allows for guests to self reflect and realize their own potential for growth. 
  • Despite motivational words, many people need to make the decision to change of their own volition. Rather than merely provide motivation, living your values and inspiring others through your own actions can help them take the next step. 
  • Hospitality attracts people from all walks of life, and having services to reflect that is important. Having a written list or experience portfolio allows guests to customize their ideal retreat. 
  • As life ebbs and flows, it’s important to trust the process. As there are highs and lows, observe what is happening and choose to be in the middle. Making the best of your situation helps keep you grounded. 
  • It’s only when you’re out of your comfort zone when you start to experience what’s possible. Through guidance, you can try new experiences and open yourself up to vulnerability, paving the way for improvement. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Where do we spend most of our time and how much of our time do we spend on the periphery of our comfort zone?” - Leon Emmett

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:07:16 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3001 This week’s guest helps people detox, destress, and discover while surrounded by nature. Through meditation, breathwork, yoga, workshops, and more, he creates an environment of rejuvenation. Joining the show this week is Founder of Onze Retreats, Leon Emmett!


Leon dials in from the Jungle to join Host Dan Ryan on a journey of hospitality and self reflection. Leon shares the importance of motivating others through action, the need to trust the process, and why everyone should spend time outside of their comfort zone. 

Takeaways: 

  • The deepest feeling of hospitality can be felt when you are in someone’s family home. When someone opens their home to you, they are opening their heart to you and showing warmth and unconditional love. 
  • Healing retreats allow people an opportunity for more than just a relaxing day of yoga and meditation. Creating a welcoming space allows for guests to self reflect and realize their own potential for growth. 
  • Despite motivational words, many people need to make the decision to change of their own volition. Rather than merely provide motivation, living your values and inspiring others through your own actions can help them take the next step. 
  • Hospitality attracts people from all walks of life, and having services to reflect that is important. Having a written list or experience portfolio allows guests to customize their ideal retreat. 
  • As life ebbs and flows, it’s important to trust the process. As there are highs and lows, observe what is happening and choose to be in the middle. Making the best of your situation helps keep you grounded. 
  • It’s only when you’re out of your comfort zone when you start to experience what’s possible. Through guidance, you can try new experiences and open yourself up to vulnerability, paving the way for improvement. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Where do we spend most of our time and how much of our time do we spend on the periphery of our comfort zone?” - Leon Emmett

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Defining Modern Luxury - Roy Kim - Defining Hospitality - Episode #150 150 150 Defining Modern Luxury - Roy Kim - Defining Hospitality - Episode #150 full 3049ff9e-209c-4ea7-bff0-d90e46de771c https://share.transistor.fm/s/88da231b If you’ve ever gazed across the New York City skyline, you’ve likely admired the work of this week’s guest. His work has defined modern luxury apartments. Please welcome to the show, Chief Design Officer at Extell, Roy Kim!


Roy sits down with Dan to explore his journey in the world of hospitality, and how Extell is leading the world of development. Roy also shares why service outweighs design, the importance of considering the view in the design process, and how to build a team of experts. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has two components, spatial and service. In many cases, the service aspect outweighs design. The way you treat and take care of guests will stay with them longer than the design choices. 
  • When choosing amenities for a project, you need to consider two different types. First are common amenities missing from the area, and second are unique amenities that will help draw people to the building. 
  • When laying out a building, consider the sequences of spaces that a guest will experience. The flow that a guest takes will combine with the fit and finish to create an overall feeling of a quality space. 
  • When designing the layout of a building it’s important to consider the view from each room. Often overlooked in the design process, the view plays a large part in how a resident feels about their apartment. 
  • While having consistent room layouts makes operations easier, you may end up with small gaps. Assessing the layouts more individually allows you to maximize your square footage
  • A design team does not need to be large to be successful. To maximize the potency of your team, ensure that each employee is an expert. Additionally, all your decision makers need to actually be making decisions. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Without the service there really is no hospitality.” - Roy Kim

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> If you’ve ever gazed across the New York City skyline, you’ve likely admired the work of this week’s guest. His work has defined modern luxury apartments. Please welcome to the show, Chief Design Officer at Extell, Roy Kim!


Roy sits down with Dan to explore his journey in the world of hospitality, and how Extell is leading the world of development. Roy also shares why service outweighs design, the importance of considering the view in the design process, and how to build a team of experts. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has two components, spatial and service. In many cases, the service aspect outweighs design. The way you treat and take care of guests will stay with them longer than the design choices. 
  • When choosing amenities for a project, you need to consider two different types. First are common amenities missing from the area, and second are unique amenities that will help draw people to the building. 
  • When laying out a building, consider the sequences of spaces that a guest will experience. The flow that a guest takes will combine with the fit and finish to create an overall feeling of a quality space. 
  • When designing the layout of a building it’s important to consider the view from each room. Often overlooked in the design process, the view plays a large part in how a resident feels about their apartment. 
  • While having consistent room layouts makes operations easier, you may end up with small gaps. Assessing the layouts more individually allows you to maximize your square footage
  • A design team does not need to be large to be successful. To maximize the potency of your team, ensure that each employee is an expert. Additionally, all your decision makers need to actually be making decisions. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Without the service there really is no hospitality.” - Roy Kim

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3692 If you’ve ever gazed across the New York City skyline, you’ve likely admired the work of this week’s guest. His work has defined modern luxury apartments. Please welcome to the show, Chief Design Officer at Extell, Roy Kim!


Roy sits down with Dan to explore his journey in the world of hospitality, and how Extell is leading the world of development. Roy also shares why service outweighs design, the importance of considering the view in the design process, and how to build a team of experts. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality has two components, spatial and service. In many cases, the service aspect outweighs design. The way you treat and take care of guests will stay with them longer than the design choices. 
  • When choosing amenities for a project, you need to consider two different types. First are common amenities missing from the area, and second are unique amenities that will help draw people to the building. 
  • When laying out a building, consider the sequences of spaces that a guest will experience. The flow that a guest takes will combine with the fit and finish to create an overall feeling of a quality space. 
  • When designing the layout of a building it’s important to consider the view from each room. Often overlooked in the design process, the view plays a large part in how a resident feels about their apartment. 
  • While having consistent room layouts makes operations easier, you may end up with small gaps. Assessing the layouts more individually allows you to maximize your square footage
  • A design team does not need to be large to be successful. To maximize the potency of your team, ensure that each employee is an expert. Additionally, all your decision makers need to actually be making decisions. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “Without the service there really is no hospitality.” - Roy Kim

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Falling Forward - Karen Gilbride - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 149 149 149 Falling Forward - Karen Gilbride - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 149 full d5cb8091-d080-4ac5-b51a-a9902f9cd892 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c9943764 Joining the podcast this week is the force behind some of IHG’s most dynamic brands. She’s a hospitality veteran who works to create seamless end-to-end guest experiences. Meet Karen Gilbride, Vice President of Avid Hotels, Atwell Suites, and Garner Hotels at IHG. 


Karen joins Host Dan Ryan to explore IHG’s newest brand Garner, and the design philosophy behind it. Additionally, Karen shares the power that mentorship programs can have, the nuances of designing for staff and employees, and how to build a brand. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the feeling you get when you visit someone's house and feel welcomed and cared for. Everyday the hospitality industry works to make you feel like you’re visiting a close friend when you stop by a hotel.
  • While new construction suits a lot of owners, there is a need to provide owners with a conversion pathway as well. By taking existing properties, owners can update old buildings and save on cost
  • When designing a hotel room, starting with foam core helps you get an initial feel for the size and shape of the room. Once you have that established, consider where the furniture goes, and how the guests will flow through the room. 
  • When building a brand you have two customers to think about. First is the guest who may check in on a given night, the second is the owner. If you can’t get an owner to invest in the brand, there won’t be a hotel for a guest to check in to. 
  • When picking furniture for a hotel, it’s important to not only consider the guest, but the hotel staff who have to interact with it as well. If a side table looks nice, but is too heavy to move, it quickly becomes an obstacle to clean around. 
  • Any guest experience is about attention to details and understanding what your standards are. If you’re only going to do 5 main things, understand what they are, and execute them to perfection.
  • Having a strong foundation of people is crucial for any business, but doubly so in hospitality. Through mentoring programs, new and rising talent can be recognized, and given the resources they need to flourish. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I realized that it really is about high attention to detail and standards, being clear about what the standards are, training people against it, and then executing.” - Karen Gilbride

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the podcast this week is the force behind some of IHG’s most dynamic brands. She’s a hospitality veteran who works to create seamless end-to-end guest experiences. Meet Karen Gilbride, Vice President of Avid Hotels, Atwell Suites, and Garner Hotels at IHG. 


Karen joins Host Dan Ryan to explore IHG’s newest brand Garner, and the design philosophy behind it. Additionally, Karen shares the power that mentorship programs can have, the nuances of designing for staff and employees, and how to build a brand. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the feeling you get when you visit someone's house and feel welcomed and cared for. Everyday the hospitality industry works to make you feel like you’re visiting a close friend when you stop by a hotel.
  • While new construction suits a lot of owners, there is a need to provide owners with a conversion pathway as well. By taking existing properties, owners can update old buildings and save on cost
  • When designing a hotel room, starting with foam core helps you get an initial feel for the size and shape of the room. Once you have that established, consider where the furniture goes, and how the guests will flow through the room. 
  • When building a brand you have two customers to think about. First is the guest who may check in on a given night, the second is the owner. If you can’t get an owner to invest in the brand, there won’t be a hotel for a guest to check in to. 
  • When picking furniture for a hotel, it’s important to not only consider the guest, but the hotel staff who have to interact with it as well. If a side table looks nice, but is too heavy to move, it quickly becomes an obstacle to clean around. 
  • Any guest experience is about attention to details and understanding what your standards are. If you’re only going to do 5 main things, understand what they are, and execute them to perfection.
  • Having a strong foundation of people is crucial for any business, but doubly so in hospitality. Through mentoring programs, new and rising talent can be recognized, and given the resources they need to flourish. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I realized that it really is about high attention to detail and standards, being clear about what the standards are, training people against it, and then executing.” - Karen Gilbride

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3938 Joining the podcast this week is the force behind some of IHG’s most dynamic brands. She’s a hospitality veteran who works to create seamless end-to-end guest experiences. Meet Karen Gilbride, Vice President of Avid Hotels, Atwell Suites, and Garner Hotels at IHG. 


Karen joins Host Dan Ryan to explore IHG’s newest brand Garner, and the design philosophy behind it. Additionally, Karen shares the power that mentorship programs can have, the nuances of designing for staff and employees, and how to build a brand. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the feeling you get when you visit someone's house and feel welcomed and cared for. Everyday the hospitality industry works to make you feel like you’re visiting a close friend when you stop by a hotel.
  • While new construction suits a lot of owners, there is a need to provide owners with a conversion pathway as well. By taking existing properties, owners can update old buildings and save on cost
  • When designing a hotel room, starting with foam core helps you get an initial feel for the size and shape of the room. Once you have that established, consider where the furniture goes, and how the guests will flow through the room. 
  • When building a brand you have two customers to think about. First is the guest who may check in on a given night, the second is the owner. If you can’t get an owner to invest in the brand, there won’t be a hotel for a guest to check in to. 
  • When picking furniture for a hotel, it’s important to not only consider the guest, but the hotel staff who have to interact with it as well. If a side table looks nice, but is too heavy to move, it quickly becomes an obstacle to clean around. 
  • Any guest experience is about attention to details and understanding what your standards are. If you’re only going to do 5 main things, understand what they are, and execute them to perfection.
  • Having a strong foundation of people is crucial for any business, but doubly so in hospitality. Through mentoring programs, new and rising talent can be recognized, and given the resources they need to flourish. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I realized that it really is about high attention to detail and standards, being clear about what the standards are, training people against it, and then executing.” - Karen Gilbride

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Guiding The Adventure - Ben Weinberg and Michael Weiss - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 148 148 148 Guiding The Adventure - Ben Weinberg and Michael Weiss - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 148 full ab7e68ed-7fb1-4cac-9d76-b6590d124cf3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/aa69006e Joining the show this week are Co-Founders with a focus on bringing experiential and sustainable accommodations to the outdoors. Please welcome to the show, Co-Founders of Castle Peak Holdings, and Co-Founders of Trailborn, Michael Weiss and Ben Weinberg!


Mike, Ben, and Dan sit down to discuss the story behind Trailborn, and the importance of authenticity. Mike and Ben share the need to stay vertically integrated, the ways to cut through the fog, and how to make your hotels feel like a part of the natural landscape. 

Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality business is the memory making business. Every experience should be focused on authentically creating memories that guests will take with them for the rest of their lives. 
  • Hospitality is about making people feel effortlessly taken care of. Through an understanding of who the guest is, you can prepare for their needs, ensuring a feeling of magic when the guest arrives. 
  • When your backdrop is the Rockies or Arches National Parks, your hotels should feel like a part of the landscape. Working with local design firms to imbue the aesthetic of the area into the hotel creates a unique experience for your guests tied to that location. 
  • Designing thoughtfully and beautifully revolves around meeting the needs and wants of a guest. While this may not be the strictly most profitable strategy, having rounded amenities creates guests that want to come back. 
  • Fog in business is unavoidable. Rather than getting lost, you need to provide clarity. Assess the problem, have the right tools and processes in place, and work towards a concrete solution, even if it takes time. 
  • When managing a hotel, instilling trust is the most important thing you can do. Your guests need to trust that you will deliver on what you promised and your team needs to trust that you will maintain your vision. 
  • Vertical integration in this market is essential to operation. By owning all operations, it allows you to align the guest experience with what you promise, and it holds you accountable by removing any potential blame of 3rd parties. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “When we think about design, it's not just the physical design of the space, it's the design of the entire experience.” - Mike
  • “Self awareness and humility is critical to winning in hospitality.” - Ben

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week are Co-Founders with a focus on bringing experiential and sustainable accommodations to the outdoors. Please welcome to the show, Co-Founders of Castle Peak Holdings, and Co-Founders of Trailborn, Michael Weiss and Ben Weinberg!


Mike, Ben, and Dan sit down to discuss the story behind Trailborn, and the importance of authenticity. Mike and Ben share the need to stay vertically integrated, the ways to cut through the fog, and how to make your hotels feel like a part of the natural landscape. 

Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality business is the memory making business. Every experience should be focused on authentically creating memories that guests will take with them for the rest of their lives. 
  • Hospitality is about making people feel effortlessly taken care of. Through an understanding of who the guest is, you can prepare for their needs, ensuring a feeling of magic when the guest arrives. 
  • When your backdrop is the Rockies or Arches National Parks, your hotels should feel like a part of the landscape. Working with local design firms to imbue the aesthetic of the area into the hotel creates a unique experience for your guests tied to that location. 
  • Designing thoughtfully and beautifully revolves around meeting the needs and wants of a guest. While this may not be the strictly most profitable strategy, having rounded amenities creates guests that want to come back. 
  • Fog in business is unavoidable. Rather than getting lost, you need to provide clarity. Assess the problem, have the right tools and processes in place, and work towards a concrete solution, even if it takes time. 
  • When managing a hotel, instilling trust is the most important thing you can do. Your guests need to trust that you will deliver on what you promised and your team needs to trust that you will maintain your vision. 
  • Vertical integration in this market is essential to operation. By owning all operations, it allows you to align the guest experience with what you promise, and it holds you accountable by removing any potential blame of 3rd parties. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “When we think about design, it's not just the physical design of the space, it's the design of the entire experience.” - Mike
  • “Self awareness and humility is critical to winning in hospitality.” - Ben

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3217 Joining the show this week are Co-Founders with a focus on bringing experiential and sustainable accommodations to the outdoors. Please welcome to the show, Co-Founders of Castle Peak Holdings, and Co-Founders of Trailborn, Michael Weiss and Ben Weinberg!


Mike, Ben, and Dan sit down to discuss the story behind Trailborn, and the importance of authenticity. Mike and Ben share the need to stay vertically integrated, the ways to cut through the fog, and how to make your hotels feel like a part of the natural landscape. 

Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality business is the memory making business. Every experience should be focused on authentically creating memories that guests will take with them for the rest of their lives. 
  • Hospitality is about making people feel effortlessly taken care of. Through an understanding of who the guest is, you can prepare for their needs, ensuring a feeling of magic when the guest arrives. 
  • When your backdrop is the Rockies or Arches National Parks, your hotels should feel like a part of the landscape. Working with local design firms to imbue the aesthetic of the area into the hotel creates a unique experience for your guests tied to that location. 
  • Designing thoughtfully and beautifully revolves around meeting the needs and wants of a guest. While this may not be the strictly most profitable strategy, having rounded amenities creates guests that want to come back. 
  • Fog in business is unavoidable. Rather than getting lost, you need to provide clarity. Assess the problem, have the right tools and processes in place, and work towards a concrete solution, even if it takes time. 
  • When managing a hotel, instilling trust is the most important thing you can do. Your guests need to trust that you will deliver on what you promised and your team needs to trust that you will maintain your vision. 
  • Vertical integration in this market is essential to operation. By owning all operations, it allows you to align the guest experience with what you promise, and it holds you accountable by removing any potential blame of 3rd parties. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “When we think about design, it's not just the physical design of the space, it's the design of the entire experience.” - Mike
  • “Self awareness and humility is critical to winning in hospitality.” - Ben

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Breaking New Ground - Steve Galbreath - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 147 147 147 Breaking New Ground - Steve Galbreath - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 147 full 7e06711d-3e38-40fb-a5bb-41e9b96c7d30 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0bdb732c This week’s guest specializes in working with local governments to help bring projects to completion. With over 30 years of experience, he knows how to help cities and counties develop crucial assets. Welcome to the show, Chief Development Officer and Head of Design and Construction at Garfield Public/ Private, Steve Galbreath!


Steve joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways a hotel can impact a local community. Steve shares why a hotel serves more than just its guests, the methods to use a hotel to benefit small businesses, and the nuances of working with city governments. 


Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about making spaces for people. However, it doesn’t revolve around just the customer. Hospitality needs to focus on the whole community, the city, and the workers. 
  • Before putting in a new hotel, it’s important to have a thorough plan based on market research. If there are other hotels in the area, it’s crucial to understand how your project will intertwine with what is currently in place.  
  • For many counties, a well thought out hotel can be a major tourist attraction. To pull off a project successfully requires an intimate understanding of the town’s needs, and a connection to key players in the hospitality industry. 
  • When working with local governments on a project, contract lengths are often longer than a given official holds office. Maintaining a good relationship as positions change hands is crucial to the success of a project. 
  • The job of a hotel is not just to house guests, but to prop up other businesses as well. As travelers come in, they will visit bars and restaurants downtown. Planning location accordingly helps weave the hotel into the fabric of the city. 
  • A great way to get a hotel's profitability up and running is to start booking businesses at a local convention center as soon as you start breaking ground. By starting early, you ensure the hotel doesn’t sit underutilized for the first few months. 
  • An exciting aspect of the hospitality industry is to see staff grow and evolve within the industries. Most brands want to grow their talent and it’s common for a bartender or room manager to become a GM 10 years down the line. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We're not in the business of convincing people to do these projects. We're in the business of helping them do it when they've got the resolve to do it.” - Steve Galbreath

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week’s guest specializes in working with local governments to help bring projects to completion. With over 30 years of experience, he knows how to help cities and counties develop crucial assets. Welcome to the show, Chief Development Officer and Head of Design and Construction at Garfield Public/ Private, Steve Galbreath!


Steve joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways a hotel can impact a local community. Steve shares why a hotel serves more than just its guests, the methods to use a hotel to benefit small businesses, and the nuances of working with city governments. 


Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about making spaces for people. However, it doesn’t revolve around just the customer. Hospitality needs to focus on the whole community, the city, and the workers. 
  • Before putting in a new hotel, it’s important to have a thorough plan based on market research. If there are other hotels in the area, it’s crucial to understand how your project will intertwine with what is currently in place.  
  • For many counties, a well thought out hotel can be a major tourist attraction. To pull off a project successfully requires an intimate understanding of the town’s needs, and a connection to key players in the hospitality industry. 
  • When working with local governments on a project, contract lengths are often longer than a given official holds office. Maintaining a good relationship as positions change hands is crucial to the success of a project. 
  • The job of a hotel is not just to house guests, but to prop up other businesses as well. As travelers come in, they will visit bars and restaurants downtown. Planning location accordingly helps weave the hotel into the fabric of the city. 
  • A great way to get a hotel's profitability up and running is to start booking businesses at a local convention center as soon as you start breaking ground. By starting early, you ensure the hotel doesn’t sit underutilized for the first few months. 
  • An exciting aspect of the hospitality industry is to see staff grow and evolve within the industries. Most brands want to grow their talent and it’s common for a bartender or room manager to become a GM 10 years down the line. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We're not in the business of convincing people to do these projects. We're in the business of helping them do it when they've got the resolve to do it.” - Steve Galbreath

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3994 This week’s guest specializes in working with local governments to help bring projects to completion. With over 30 years of experience, he knows how to help cities and counties develop crucial assets. Welcome to the show, Chief Development Officer and Head of Design and Construction at Garfield Public/ Private, Steve Galbreath!


Steve joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways a hotel can impact a local community. Steve shares why a hotel serves more than just its guests, the methods to use a hotel to benefit small businesses, and the nuances of working with city governments. 


Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about making spaces for people. However, it doesn’t revolve around just the customer. Hospitality needs to focus on the whole community, the city, and the workers. 
  • Before putting in a new hotel, it’s important to have a thorough plan based on market research. If there are other hotels in the area, it’s crucial to understand how your project will intertwine with what is currently in place.  
  • For many counties, a well thought out hotel can be a major tourist attraction. To pull off a project successfully requires an intimate understanding of the town’s needs, and a connection to key players in the hospitality industry. 
  • When working with local governments on a project, contract lengths are often longer than a given official holds office. Maintaining a good relationship as positions change hands is crucial to the success of a project. 
  • The job of a hotel is not just to house guests, but to prop up other businesses as well. As travelers come in, they will visit bars and restaurants downtown. Planning location accordingly helps weave the hotel into the fabric of the city. 
  • A great way to get a hotel's profitability up and running is to start booking businesses at a local convention center as soon as you start breaking ground. By starting early, you ensure the hotel doesn’t sit underutilized for the first few months. 
  • An exciting aspect of the hospitality industry is to see staff grow and evolve within the industries. Most brands want to grow their talent and it’s common for a bartender or room manager to become a GM 10 years down the line. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We're not in the business of convincing people to do these projects. We're in the business of helping them do it when they've got the resolve to do it.” - Steve Galbreath

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Understanding What Your Client Needs - Jeff Diener - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 146 146 146 Understanding What Your Client Needs - Jeff Diener - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 146 full 6a918ab5-3e6f-4542-986f-eaff40c0a980 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f5d38692 Joining the show this week is a partner who enjoys helping people disrupt the hospitality space, and who has represented billions of dollars in acquisitions. Please welcome to the show, Partner and Co-Leader of the Hospitality Industry Team at Baker Hostetler, Jeff Diener!


Jeff sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss the role of a partner in the hospitality industry. Jeff shares tips for partners who are looking to emulate his skills in the industry, the importance of spending time with your clients to learn about them, and what the future holds for property investments. 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about providing someone with customized service. It involves creating the right combination of satisfaction, comfort, security and enthusiasm for each individual client. 
  • Understanding the value of relationships and collaboration in the hospitality industry can lead to more successful outcomes. Embracing a service-oriented mindset is crucial for anyone looking to thrive in the world of hospitality.
  • When negotiating deals for smaller clients, you are typically negotiating on their behalf, whereas with large clients you are negotiating with them. Understanding what a brand cares about and how to get them on board are integral skills. 
  • One of the most important things you can do with your client is spend time with them in both formal and informal settings. As you spend time together, you better understand what matters to your clients, and can speed up further aspects of the project. 
  • Looking towards the future of deals that are yet to come, many owners are buying properties and wanting to make adjustments. When working with owners, understand the story they are trying to convey, to help them make the necessary changes. 
  • Investing in real estate requires a shift in mindset post-COVID, where traditional assets like offices and multifamily properties may not always guarantee returns. Diversifying across asset classes can be key to maximizing returns in the current market.
  • Embrace market turbulence as an opportunity for growth and value creation when looking at properties. Stay informed, stay prepared, and capitalize on deals to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's getting more and more involved in their business, and that's where the joy is.” - Jeff Diener

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is a partner who enjoys helping people disrupt the hospitality space, and who has represented billions of dollars in acquisitions. Please welcome to the show, Partner and Co-Leader of the Hospitality Industry Team at Baker Hostetler, Jeff Diener!


Jeff sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss the role of a partner in the hospitality industry. Jeff shares tips for partners who are looking to emulate his skills in the industry, the importance of spending time with your clients to learn about them, and what the future holds for property investments. 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about providing someone with customized service. It involves creating the right combination of satisfaction, comfort, security and enthusiasm for each individual client. 
  • Understanding the value of relationships and collaboration in the hospitality industry can lead to more successful outcomes. Embracing a service-oriented mindset is crucial for anyone looking to thrive in the world of hospitality.
  • When negotiating deals for smaller clients, you are typically negotiating on their behalf, whereas with large clients you are negotiating with them. Understanding what a brand cares about and how to get them on board are integral skills. 
  • One of the most important things you can do with your client is spend time with them in both formal and informal settings. As you spend time together, you better understand what matters to your clients, and can speed up further aspects of the project. 
  • Looking towards the future of deals that are yet to come, many owners are buying properties and wanting to make adjustments. When working with owners, understand the story they are trying to convey, to help them make the necessary changes. 
  • Investing in real estate requires a shift in mindset post-COVID, where traditional assets like offices and multifamily properties may not always guarantee returns. Diversifying across asset classes can be key to maximizing returns in the current market.
  • Embrace market turbulence as an opportunity for growth and value creation when looking at properties. Stay informed, stay prepared, and capitalize on deals to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's getting more and more involved in their business, and that's where the joy is.” - Jeff Diener

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4117 Joining the show this week is a partner who enjoys helping people disrupt the hospitality space, and who has represented billions of dollars in acquisitions. Please welcome to the show, Partner and Co-Leader of the Hospitality Industry Team at Baker Hostetler, Jeff Diener!


Jeff sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss the role of a partner in the hospitality industry. Jeff shares tips for partners who are looking to emulate his skills in the industry, the importance of spending time with your clients to learn about them, and what the future holds for property investments. 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is about providing someone with customized service. It involves creating the right combination of satisfaction, comfort, security and enthusiasm for each individual client. 
  • Understanding the value of relationships and collaboration in the hospitality industry can lead to more successful outcomes. Embracing a service-oriented mindset is crucial for anyone looking to thrive in the world of hospitality.
  • When negotiating deals for smaller clients, you are typically negotiating on their behalf, whereas with large clients you are negotiating with them. Understanding what a brand cares about and how to get them on board are integral skills. 
  • One of the most important things you can do with your client is spend time with them in both formal and informal settings. As you spend time together, you better understand what matters to your clients, and can speed up further aspects of the project. 
  • Looking towards the future of deals that are yet to come, many owners are buying properties and wanting to make adjustments. When working with owners, understand the story they are trying to convey, to help them make the necessary changes. 
  • Investing in real estate requires a shift in mindset post-COVID, where traditional assets like offices and multifamily properties may not always guarantee returns. Diversifying across asset classes can be key to maximizing returns in the current market.
  • Embrace market turbulence as an opportunity for growth and value creation when looking at properties. Stay informed, stay prepared, and capitalize on deals to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's getting more and more involved in their business, and that's where the joy is.” - Jeff Diener

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Finding Success In Constraints - Dan Welborn- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 145 145 145 Finding Success In Constraints - Dan Welborn- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 145 full ee502ebc-acbd-4af5-bb73-459f43efd607 https://share.transistor.fm/s/acd804ff Our guest this week is a global design and development leader who excels at hospitality. With over 25 years of experience, he helps developers and owners turn their vision into reality. Joining us is Principal at DW Design Strategy, Dan Welborn!


Dan and Host Dan Ryan chat about his journey into the hospitality industry. Dan dives into what it takes to be a good leader, the importance of aligning decisions with business goals, strategies for getting unstuck, and why as a solo practitioner you’re selling yourself everyday.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about blending all aspects of design into one. You are combining residential, guest rooms, office space, and convention spaces. In hospitality you get to create a building with one unified experience. 
  • While planning is critical for any project's success, it doesn’t happen as often as it should. Before implementing a PIP, take time to review and assess if everything is necessary. Having a tight plan to send to designers results in a better finished product. 
  • Knowing your goals from both a personal and business perspective will help you make better decisions. When deciding to pursue a project, attend a conference, or shift directions, aligning those decisions with your goals creates better outcomes. 
  • As a sole proprietor, you are selling not only your business, but yourself as well. What matters most to clients is how you make them feel, and every interaction you have with your clients is a reflection of the work you do and who you are. 
  • Effective leadership in project management requires setting the tone early and ensuring continuous course corrections. It is crucial to actively engage with clients throughout the project and prioritize being present until the very end for a successful outcome.
  • When faced with a project deadlock, bringing in a fresh perspective and facilitating group discussions can help in finding innovative solutions. Utilizing visual tools like mind mapping can aid in visual problem-solving and spark creativity among team members.
  • The key to successful collaboration is openness and a willingness to explore solutions together, regardless of their size or experience. Embracing constraints and challenges in projects leads to innovative design solutions that wouldn't be possible in ideal scenarios.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I love a difficult, highly constrained project and problem to solve.” - Dan Welborn

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a global design and development leader who excels at hospitality. With over 25 years of experience, he helps developers and owners turn their vision into reality. Joining us is Principal at DW Design Strategy, Dan Welborn!


Dan and Host Dan Ryan chat about his journey into the hospitality industry. Dan dives into what it takes to be a good leader, the importance of aligning decisions with business goals, strategies for getting unstuck, and why as a solo practitioner you’re selling yourself everyday.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about blending all aspects of design into one. You are combining residential, guest rooms, office space, and convention spaces. In hospitality you get to create a building with one unified experience. 
  • While planning is critical for any project's success, it doesn’t happen as often as it should. Before implementing a PIP, take time to review and assess if everything is necessary. Having a tight plan to send to designers results in a better finished product. 
  • Knowing your goals from both a personal and business perspective will help you make better decisions. When deciding to pursue a project, attend a conference, or shift directions, aligning those decisions with your goals creates better outcomes. 
  • As a sole proprietor, you are selling not only your business, but yourself as well. What matters most to clients is how you make them feel, and every interaction you have with your clients is a reflection of the work you do and who you are. 
  • Effective leadership in project management requires setting the tone early and ensuring continuous course corrections. It is crucial to actively engage with clients throughout the project and prioritize being present until the very end for a successful outcome.
  • When faced with a project deadlock, bringing in a fresh perspective and facilitating group discussions can help in finding innovative solutions. Utilizing visual tools like mind mapping can aid in visual problem-solving and spark creativity among team members.
  • The key to successful collaboration is openness and a willingness to explore solutions together, regardless of their size or experience. Embracing constraints and challenges in projects leads to innovative design solutions that wouldn't be possible in ideal scenarios.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I love a difficult, highly constrained project and problem to solve.” - Dan Welborn

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3901 Our guest this week is a global design and development leader who excels at hospitality. With over 25 years of experience, he helps developers and owners turn their vision into reality. Joining us is Principal at DW Design Strategy, Dan Welborn!


Dan and Host Dan Ryan chat about his journey into the hospitality industry. Dan dives into what it takes to be a good leader, the importance of aligning decisions with business goals, strategies for getting unstuck, and why as a solo practitioner you’re selling yourself everyday.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about blending all aspects of design into one. You are combining residential, guest rooms, office space, and convention spaces. In hospitality you get to create a building with one unified experience. 
  • While planning is critical for any project's success, it doesn’t happen as often as it should. Before implementing a PIP, take time to review and assess if everything is necessary. Having a tight plan to send to designers results in a better finished product. 
  • Knowing your goals from both a personal and business perspective will help you make better decisions. When deciding to pursue a project, attend a conference, or shift directions, aligning those decisions with your goals creates better outcomes. 
  • As a sole proprietor, you are selling not only your business, but yourself as well. What matters most to clients is how you make them feel, and every interaction you have with your clients is a reflection of the work you do and who you are. 
  • Effective leadership in project management requires setting the tone early and ensuring continuous course corrections. It is crucial to actively engage with clients throughout the project and prioritize being present until the very end for a successful outcome.
  • When faced with a project deadlock, bringing in a fresh perspective and facilitating group discussions can help in finding innovative solutions. Utilizing visual tools like mind mapping can aid in visual problem-solving and spark creativity among team members.
  • The key to successful collaboration is openness and a willingness to explore solutions together, regardless of their size or experience. Embracing constraints and challenges in projects leads to innovative design solutions that wouldn't be possible in ideal scenarios.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I love a difficult, highly constrained project and problem to solve.” - Dan Welborn

Links:


Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan How Story Meets Function - Brad Zuger - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 144 144 144 How Story Meets Function - Brad Zuger - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 144 full 8b3183cb-c5d4-44f8-b6ac-77cd50855361 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2e67cb1a Our guest this week is a designer who treats each project as a chance to innovate. He’s worked across the globe on hotel, restaurant, and office projects. Please welcome to the show, Principal and Studio Leader at Rockwell Group, Brad Zuger!


Host Dan Ryan joins Brad at the Rockwell office in New York to discuss some of the recent projects the firm has been involved in. Brad shares the importance of having passion, the best ways to design with curiosity, and why Rockwell has a strong focus on incorporating wellness into the projects they design. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making meaningful connections and indulging in people's curiosity for life. Craft narratives, prompt curiosity, and create spaces that make people want to connect and return.
  • Consider how personal narratives can inspire unique experiences and meaningful connections within a space. Understanding the client's vision and creating innovative entry points can lead to transformative dining experiences.
  • Design decisions should be made with depth of curiosity, allowing for interpretations that spark conversation and connection with spaces. Embrace layers of discovery in design to create rich and engaging experiences that invite people to return.
  • The key to creativity lies in embracing risks and individuality, while finding purpose in meaningful work. Embrace risks, celebrate individuality, and find purpose in your work to make a meaningful impact.
  • An often overlooked design element is dynamic change. Through a change in layout and lighting, a space can serve multiple purposes and engage with customers in multiple instances throughout the day. 
  • Wellness encompasses more than just physical well-being; it also involves mental revitalization and meaningful connections with others, which are crucial for overall wellness and cognitive health as we age
  • To improve engagement and attract people to office spaces, consider redefining shared spaces based on common interests. Emphasize creating a sense of community through innovative design elements and versatile spaces that facilitate connections.

Quote of the Show:

  • “How could we think about this whole restaurant experience in a new way?” - Brad Zuger

Links:



Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a designer who treats each project as a chance to innovate. He’s worked across the globe on hotel, restaurant, and office projects. Please welcome to the show, Principal and Studio Leader at Rockwell Group, Brad Zuger!


Host Dan Ryan joins Brad at the Rockwell office in New York to discuss some of the recent projects the firm has been involved in. Brad shares the importance of having passion, the best ways to design with curiosity, and why Rockwell has a strong focus on incorporating wellness into the projects they design. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making meaningful connections and indulging in people's curiosity for life. Craft narratives, prompt curiosity, and create spaces that make people want to connect and return.
  • Consider how personal narratives can inspire unique experiences and meaningful connections within a space. Understanding the client's vision and creating innovative entry points can lead to transformative dining experiences.
  • Design decisions should be made with depth of curiosity, allowing for interpretations that spark conversation and connection with spaces. Embrace layers of discovery in design to create rich and engaging experiences that invite people to return.
  • The key to creativity lies in embracing risks and individuality, while finding purpose in meaningful work. Embrace risks, celebrate individuality, and find purpose in your work to make a meaningful impact.
  • An often overlooked design element is dynamic change. Through a change in layout and lighting, a space can serve multiple purposes and engage with customers in multiple instances throughout the day. 
  • Wellness encompasses more than just physical well-being; it also involves mental revitalization and meaningful connections with others, which are crucial for overall wellness and cognitive health as we age
  • To improve engagement and attract people to office spaces, consider redefining shared spaces based on common interests. Emphasize creating a sense of community through innovative design elements and versatile spaces that facilitate connections.

Quote of the Show:

  • “How could we think about this whole restaurant experience in a new way?” - Brad Zuger

Links:



Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4059 Our guest this week is a designer who treats each project as a chance to innovate. He’s worked across the globe on hotel, restaurant, and office projects. Please welcome to the show, Principal and Studio Leader at Rockwell Group, Brad Zuger!


Host Dan Ryan joins Brad at the Rockwell office in New York to discuss some of the recent projects the firm has been involved in. Brad shares the importance of having passion, the best ways to design with curiosity, and why Rockwell has a strong focus on incorporating wellness into the projects they design. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making meaningful connections and indulging in people's curiosity for life. Craft narratives, prompt curiosity, and create spaces that make people want to connect and return.
  • Consider how personal narratives can inspire unique experiences and meaningful connections within a space. Understanding the client's vision and creating innovative entry points can lead to transformative dining experiences.
  • Design decisions should be made with depth of curiosity, allowing for interpretations that spark conversation and connection with spaces. Embrace layers of discovery in design to create rich and engaging experiences that invite people to return.
  • The key to creativity lies in embracing risks and individuality, while finding purpose in meaningful work. Embrace risks, celebrate individuality, and find purpose in your work to make a meaningful impact.
  • An often overlooked design element is dynamic change. Through a change in layout and lighting, a space can serve multiple purposes and engage with customers in multiple instances throughout the day. 
  • Wellness encompasses more than just physical well-being; it also involves mental revitalization and meaningful connections with others, which are crucial for overall wellness and cognitive health as we age
  • To improve engagement and attract people to office spaces, consider redefining shared spaces based on common interests. Emphasize creating a sense of community through innovative design elements and versatile spaces that facilitate connections.

Quote of the Show:

  • “How could we think about this whole restaurant experience in a new way?” - Brad Zuger

Links:



Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Understanding To The Nth Degree - Bill Bensley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 143 143 143 Understanding To The Nth Degree - Bill Bensley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 143 full 50df6fc2-00da-4501-8193-a2527fe8368b https://share.transistor.fm/s/73c3156b Joining the show this week is someone who rejects normality in his pursuit to disrupt the hospitality industry, and who uses hospitality as a tool for preservation. Please welcome to the show, Author of the book “More Escapism”, and Director of Bensley Studios, Bill Bensley!


Bill sits down with Host Dan Ryan for an enlightening conversation on the intersection between hospitality and conservation. Bill shares the importance of understanding the natural site you’re building on, the benefit to training a local talent pool, and how his paintings build houses. Bill also shares some of the work the Shinta Mani Foundation has done including building over 150 houses and 1800 water wells, and funding local conservation projects. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves sharing the deep knowledge of a place through architecture and design. A good project should always reflect the culture and the environment in which it is based. 
  • While much of hospitality is focused on sharing new experiences, it also needs to be focused on protecting the local environments. Through the revenue generated at a hotel, conservation programs should be put in place. 
  • Understanding the idiosyncrasies of natural sites is key to successful projects. Embracing and respecting Mother Nature's beauty is crucial in landscape and architectural design.
  • Budget is a key component of any project, and when clients come in with big dreams, balancing those two desires can be tricky. To alleviate this, strong communication allows you to educate clients on what can realistically be achieved
  • The best way to learn about a site is to physically  spend time there before you start designing. By sketching on site, you get new perspectives and up close details that may not be accounted for on a first pass render. 
  • If you are building a hotel in an area with a limited talent pool, training local citizens is a strong strategy. This approach both develops a local workforce for the hotel, and offers local communities the chance to learn new skills and find employment. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Even though I'm a pretty darn good architect, no matter what I put on that site, it's never gonna be as good as what Mother Nature has already given us.” - Bill Bensley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is someone who rejects normality in his pursuit to disrupt the hospitality industry, and who uses hospitality as a tool for preservation. Please welcome to the show, Author of the book “More Escapism”, and Director of Bensley Studios, Bill Bensley!


Bill sits down with Host Dan Ryan for an enlightening conversation on the intersection between hospitality and conservation. Bill shares the importance of understanding the natural site you’re building on, the benefit to training a local talent pool, and how his paintings build houses. Bill also shares some of the work the Shinta Mani Foundation has done including building over 150 houses and 1800 water wells, and funding local conservation projects. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves sharing the deep knowledge of a place through architecture and design. A good project should always reflect the culture and the environment in which it is based. 
  • While much of hospitality is focused on sharing new experiences, it also needs to be focused on protecting the local environments. Through the revenue generated at a hotel, conservation programs should be put in place. 
  • Understanding the idiosyncrasies of natural sites is key to successful projects. Embracing and respecting Mother Nature's beauty is crucial in landscape and architectural design.
  • Budget is a key component of any project, and when clients come in with big dreams, balancing those two desires can be tricky. To alleviate this, strong communication allows you to educate clients on what can realistically be achieved
  • The best way to learn about a site is to physically  spend time there before you start designing. By sketching on site, you get new perspectives and up close details that may not be accounted for on a first pass render. 
  • If you are building a hotel in an area with a limited talent pool, training local citizens is a strong strategy. This approach both develops a local workforce for the hotel, and offers local communities the chance to learn new skills and find employment. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Even though I'm a pretty darn good architect, no matter what I put on that site, it's never gonna be as good as what Mother Nature has already given us.” - Bill Bensley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3374 Joining the show this week is someone who rejects normality in his pursuit to disrupt the hospitality industry, and who uses hospitality as a tool for preservation. Please welcome to the show, Author of the book “More Escapism”, and Director of Bensley Studios, Bill Bensley!


Bill sits down with Host Dan Ryan for an enlightening conversation on the intersection between hospitality and conservation. Bill shares the importance of understanding the natural site you’re building on, the benefit to training a local talent pool, and how his paintings build houses. Bill also shares some of the work the Shinta Mani Foundation has done including building over 150 houses and 1800 water wells, and funding local conservation projects. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality involves sharing the deep knowledge of a place through architecture and design. A good project should always reflect the culture and the environment in which it is based. 
  • While much of hospitality is focused on sharing new experiences, it also needs to be focused on protecting the local environments. Through the revenue generated at a hotel, conservation programs should be put in place. 
  • Understanding the idiosyncrasies of natural sites is key to successful projects. Embracing and respecting Mother Nature's beauty is crucial in landscape and architectural design.
  • Budget is a key component of any project, and when clients come in with big dreams, balancing those two desires can be tricky. To alleviate this, strong communication allows you to educate clients on what can realistically be achieved
  • The best way to learn about a site is to physically  spend time there before you start designing. By sketching on site, you get new perspectives and up close details that may not be accounted for on a first pass render. 
  • If you are building a hotel in an area with a limited talent pool, training local citizens is a strong strategy. This approach both develops a local workforce for the hotel, and offers local communities the chance to learn new skills and find employment. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “Even though I'm a pretty darn good architect, no matter what I put on that site, it's never gonna be as good as what Mother Nature has already given us.” - Bill Bensley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Security, Surprise, Significance, and Synergy - Kimberly Jackson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 142 142 142 Security, Surprise, Significance, and Synergy - Kimberly Jackson - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 142 full 62e33630-cf26-4af2-bef3-d81a4e6fd537 https://share.transistor.fm/s/79ccb70a Joining the show this week is a talented multi-disciplinary designer with over 25 years managing a variety of projects. As a designer, she’s led teams through the full life of a project. Our guest this week is none other than the Managing Director at AvroKO’s Miami Studio, Kimberly Jackson!


In a candid conversation with Host Dan Ryan, Kimberly shares her insights about her journey in the field of design and hospitality. She sheds light on her practice of incorporating "hospitable thinking" into all of the spaces she designs, highlighting the aspects of security, surprise, significance, and synergy, and emphasizes the role of diversity in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality extends beyond mere spaces like hotels and restaurants, and is fundamentally a mindset. It revolves around how we interact with everyone around us, including friends, family, colleagues, bosses, and employees. 
  • The concept of hospitable thinking revolves around four key elements: security, surprise, significance, and synergy. It is important to create spaces that make guests feel comfortable, delighted, and important.
  • Pushing boundaries and surprising both guests and the ownership team is a key aspect of innovative projects. Incorporating unexpected elements and layering them into the design process will drive innovation and shape future designs.
  • Collaboration between the interior design team and the brand bureau is crucial in creating a cohesive narrative and strategy for each design. By combining their expertise, they can develop a unified vision that incorporates both spatial and branding elements.
  • When crafting a spatial-heavy brand, it is important to set up a cohesive brand identity across all spaces. If a brand focuses on individuality, it is advisable to create unique and hospitable spaces that complement the brand without overshadowing it.
  • The Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) was formed to create a more diverse hospitality industry at all levels. By embracing diversity, the industry can craft more hospitable spaces where everyone feels comfortable.
  • Ensuring security in a space involves more than just the physical layout, such as not placing people in high-traffic areas. It also means creating an environment where all the elements work together seamlessly, providing comfort for everyone involved.

Quote of the Show:

  • “What is it about this project that is going to push the boundary a little bit? That's going to surprise the guest?” - Kimberly Jackson

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is a talented multi-disciplinary designer with over 25 years managing a variety of projects. As a designer, she’s led teams through the full life of a project. Our guest this week is none other than the Managing Director at AvroKO’s Miami Studio, Kimberly Jackson!


In a candid conversation with Host Dan Ryan, Kimberly shares her insights about her journey in the field of design and hospitality. She sheds light on her practice of incorporating "hospitable thinking" into all of the spaces she designs, highlighting the aspects of security, surprise, significance, and synergy, and emphasizes the role of diversity in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality extends beyond mere spaces like hotels and restaurants, and is fundamentally a mindset. It revolves around how we interact with everyone around us, including friends, family, colleagues, bosses, and employees. 
  • The concept of hospitable thinking revolves around four key elements: security, surprise, significance, and synergy. It is important to create spaces that make guests feel comfortable, delighted, and important.
  • Pushing boundaries and surprising both guests and the ownership team is a key aspect of innovative projects. Incorporating unexpected elements and layering them into the design process will drive innovation and shape future designs.
  • Collaboration between the interior design team and the brand bureau is crucial in creating a cohesive narrative and strategy for each design. By combining their expertise, they can develop a unified vision that incorporates both spatial and branding elements.
  • When crafting a spatial-heavy brand, it is important to set up a cohesive brand identity across all spaces. If a brand focuses on individuality, it is advisable to create unique and hospitable spaces that complement the brand without overshadowing it.
  • The Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) was formed to create a more diverse hospitality industry at all levels. By embracing diversity, the industry can craft more hospitable spaces where everyone feels comfortable.
  • Ensuring security in a space involves more than just the physical layout, such as not placing people in high-traffic areas. It also means creating an environment where all the elements work together seamlessly, providing comfort for everyone involved.

Quote of the Show:

  • “What is it about this project that is going to push the boundary a little bit? That's going to surprise the guest?” - Kimberly Jackson

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 21 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3322 Joining the show this week is a talented multi-disciplinary designer with over 25 years managing a variety of projects. As a designer, she’s led teams through the full life of a project. Our guest this week is none other than the Managing Director at AvroKO’s Miami Studio, Kimberly Jackson!


In a candid conversation with Host Dan Ryan, Kimberly shares her insights about her journey in the field of design and hospitality. She sheds light on her practice of incorporating "hospitable thinking" into all of the spaces she designs, highlighting the aspects of security, surprise, significance, and synergy, and emphasizes the role of diversity in the industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality extends beyond mere spaces like hotels and restaurants, and is fundamentally a mindset. It revolves around how we interact with everyone around us, including friends, family, colleagues, bosses, and employees. 
  • The concept of hospitable thinking revolves around four key elements: security, surprise, significance, and synergy. It is important to create spaces that make guests feel comfortable, delighted, and important.
  • Pushing boundaries and surprising both guests and the ownership team is a key aspect of innovative projects. Incorporating unexpected elements and layering them into the design process will drive innovation and shape future designs.
  • Collaboration between the interior design team and the brand bureau is crucial in creating a cohesive narrative and strategy for each design. By combining their expertise, they can develop a unified vision that incorporates both spatial and branding elements.
  • When crafting a spatial-heavy brand, it is important to set up a cohesive brand identity across all spaces. If a brand focuses on individuality, it is advisable to create unique and hospitable spaces that complement the brand without overshadowing it.
  • The Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) was formed to create a more diverse hospitality industry at all levels. By embracing diversity, the industry can craft more hospitable spaces where everyone feels comfortable.
  • Ensuring security in a space involves more than just the physical layout, such as not placing people in high-traffic areas. It also means creating an environment where all the elements work together seamlessly, providing comfort for everyone involved.

Quote of the Show:

  • “What is it about this project that is going to push the boundary a little bit? That's going to surprise the guest?” - Kimberly Jackson

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality Daily - Chip Conley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 141 141 141 Hospitality Daily - Chip Conley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 141 full dd037137-0fcb-464a-90ae-29f784313e09 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bdc52e2f On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share a recent episode from his podcast where he interviewed Chip Conley, Founder and CEO at Modern Elder Academy.


Takeaway: 

  • In an environment like AirBNB where there is a lack of real time feedback, exit surveys for guests are important. By collecting this feedback, Chip was able to help hosts improve their offerings to guests. 


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share a recent episode from his podcast where he interviewed Chip Conley, Founder and CEO at Modern Elder Academy.


Takeaway: 

  • In an environment like AirBNB where there is a lack of real time feedback, exit surveys for guests are important. By collecting this feedback, Chip was able to help hosts improve their offerings to guests. 


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 14 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 671 On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share a recent episode from his podcast where he interviewed Chip Conley, Founder and CEO at Modern Elder Academy.


Takeaway: 

  • In an environment like AirBNB where there is a lack of real time feedback, exit surveys for guests are important. By collecting this feedback, Chip was able to help hosts improve their offerings to guests. 


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Duty To Be Hospitable - Michelle Jaime - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 140 140 140 A Duty To Be Hospitable - Michelle Jaime - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 140 full ed0d295d-29c0-4afe-895b-699255a3630f https://share.transistor.fm/s/156ffdfc Our guest this week is a designer for whom discovery is at the heart of what she does. Her design skills have been featured on HGTV as the co-host of Aloha Homes, and her firm has won multiple awards, including two gold key awards. Joining the show is President and Creative Director of The Vanguard Theory, Michelle Jaime!


Michelle joins host Dan Ryan to discuss Hawaii's unique culture in terms of hospitality. Michelle also shares her experiences as an entrepreneur, and dives into the need for authentic representation of Hawaiian culture in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality in Hawaii is ingrained in the culture, where locals often adopt and warmly embrace visitors, sharing their traditions, food, and experiences. Genuine care and immersing guests are authentic aspects of life, both on a personal and industry level.
  • Hawaiian firms often design Hawaiian projects, but rarely design mainland projects, hindering their recognition and opportunities outside of Hawaii. This disparity may be attributed to misconceptions about distance and cultural specificity.
  • To gain recognition and attract profitable opportunities, it is important for small businesses to showcase their achievements. Building successful partnerships and establishing a strong reputation can lead to further growth beyond the local market.
  • When working with clients, it's important to build strong relationships and understand their goals, budgets, and timelines. By designing around constraints and considering logistics, you create high-quality projects that meet expectations regardless of location.
  • It is crucial for non-local design firms working on projects in Hawaii to be sensitive to the local culture and avoid appropriation. Engaging with local fabricators, artists, and designers is essential to ensure an authentic representation of the community.
  • Being cautious about scaling and expanding too quickly is crucial, especially in areas where external factors can significantly impact businesses and lead to layoffs. Prioritizing sustainable growth can help prevent potential negative consequences.
  • Many people face the challenge of lacking business guidance and mentorship, relying on failure to learn and overcome obstacles. Despite the absence of a mentor, the experience of navigating failures can drive personal growth and resilience.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If we don't engage the community, that's not really authentic.” - Michelle Jaime

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a designer for whom discovery is at the heart of what she does. Her design skills have been featured on HGTV as the co-host of Aloha Homes, and her firm has won multiple awards, including two gold key awards. Joining the show is President and Creative Director of The Vanguard Theory, Michelle Jaime!


Michelle joins host Dan Ryan to discuss Hawaii's unique culture in terms of hospitality. Michelle also shares her experiences as an entrepreneur, and dives into the need for authentic representation of Hawaiian culture in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality in Hawaii is ingrained in the culture, where locals often adopt and warmly embrace visitors, sharing their traditions, food, and experiences. Genuine care and immersing guests are authentic aspects of life, both on a personal and industry level.
  • Hawaiian firms often design Hawaiian projects, but rarely design mainland projects, hindering their recognition and opportunities outside of Hawaii. This disparity may be attributed to misconceptions about distance and cultural specificity.
  • To gain recognition and attract profitable opportunities, it is important for small businesses to showcase their achievements. Building successful partnerships and establishing a strong reputation can lead to further growth beyond the local market.
  • When working with clients, it's important to build strong relationships and understand their goals, budgets, and timelines. By designing around constraints and considering logistics, you create high-quality projects that meet expectations regardless of location.
  • It is crucial for non-local design firms working on projects in Hawaii to be sensitive to the local culture and avoid appropriation. Engaging with local fabricators, artists, and designers is essential to ensure an authentic representation of the community.
  • Being cautious about scaling and expanding too quickly is crucial, especially in areas where external factors can significantly impact businesses and lead to layoffs. Prioritizing sustainable growth can help prevent potential negative consequences.
  • Many people face the challenge of lacking business guidance and mentorship, relying on failure to learn and overcome obstacles. Despite the absence of a mentor, the experience of navigating failures can drive personal growth and resilience.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If we don't engage the community, that's not really authentic.” - Michelle Jaime

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 31 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3257 Our guest this week is a designer for whom discovery is at the heart of what she does. Her design skills have been featured on HGTV as the co-host of Aloha Homes, and her firm has won multiple awards, including two gold key awards. Joining the show is President and Creative Director of The Vanguard Theory, Michelle Jaime!


Michelle joins host Dan Ryan to discuss Hawaii's unique culture in terms of hospitality. Michelle also shares her experiences as an entrepreneur, and dives into the need for authentic representation of Hawaiian culture in design.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality in Hawaii is ingrained in the culture, where locals often adopt and warmly embrace visitors, sharing their traditions, food, and experiences. Genuine care and immersing guests are authentic aspects of life, both on a personal and industry level.
  • Hawaiian firms often design Hawaiian projects, but rarely design mainland projects, hindering their recognition and opportunities outside of Hawaii. This disparity may be attributed to misconceptions about distance and cultural specificity.
  • To gain recognition and attract profitable opportunities, it is important for small businesses to showcase their achievements. Building successful partnerships and establishing a strong reputation can lead to further growth beyond the local market.
  • When working with clients, it's important to build strong relationships and understand their goals, budgets, and timelines. By designing around constraints and considering logistics, you create high-quality projects that meet expectations regardless of location.
  • It is crucial for non-local design firms working on projects in Hawaii to be sensitive to the local culture and avoid appropriation. Engaging with local fabricators, artists, and designers is essential to ensure an authentic representation of the community.
  • Being cautious about scaling and expanding too quickly is crucial, especially in areas where external factors can significantly impact businesses and lead to layoffs. Prioritizing sustainable growth can help prevent potential negative consequences.
  • Many people face the challenge of lacking business guidance and mentorship, relying on failure to learn and overcome obstacles. Despite the absence of a mentor, the experience of navigating failures can drive personal growth and resilience.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If we don't engage the community, that's not really authentic.” - Michelle Jaime

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Taking Care Of Business - Ben Nicholas - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 139 139 139 Taking Care Of Business - Ben Nicholas - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 139 full 55a9b32b-2235-46ae-b94e-ed869dadc377 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1b1fd5ad Our guest this week is a designer who believes that the best results come from challenging the norm. With over 20 years in the industry, he knows what makes and breaks a project. Joining the show is Chief Brand and Design Officer at Design Environments, Ben Nicholas!


Ben sits down with Host Dan Ryan for a conversation on the importance of building human connections in all elements of the industry. Ben shares how his route as a paperboy inspired his love for hospitality, his philosophy of creating designs that foster genuine and effortless hospitality experiences, and the importance of challenging the norm.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating connections and ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging and being part of something. It extends beyond physical spaces like hotels and can be experienced in restaurants, bars, and everyday life.
  • Being open to unexpected opportunities and taking leaps of faith can lead to amazing experiences and personal growth. Embracing naivety and excitement allows us to create unique and memorable journeys in life.
  • Maintaining meaningful connections and cherishing the time spent together are valuable lessons. Prioritizing relationships and seizing opportunities can lead to personal and professional growth.
  • Working on projects globally brings challenges that require adaptability and quick learning, such as understanding different markets' expectations and keeping teams motivated to deliver great design.
  • The future is full of exciting opportunities and possibilities, especially when it comes to establishing and growing a service design team. Embracing the potential and putting in the necessary work can lead to exciting outcomes and personal fulfillment.
  • The most cherished memories from working on projects are not about the physical outcomes, but rather the people and experiences that were shared. These memories serve as a reminder of the joy and bonds formed during the collaborative process.
  • In design and project planning, having a well-defined process and being open to exploration are crucial. Renovation presents greater challenges than new builds, requiring creativity to enhance the space within constraints.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “I like the term tour guide. I don't like the word boss.” - Ben Nicholas

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a designer who believes that the best results come from challenging the norm. With over 20 years in the industry, he knows what makes and breaks a project. Joining the show is Chief Brand and Design Officer at Design Environments, Ben Nicholas!


Ben sits down with Host Dan Ryan for a conversation on the importance of building human connections in all elements of the industry. Ben shares how his route as a paperboy inspired his love for hospitality, his philosophy of creating designs that foster genuine and effortless hospitality experiences, and the importance of challenging the norm.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating connections and ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging and being part of something. It extends beyond physical spaces like hotels and can be experienced in restaurants, bars, and everyday life.
  • Being open to unexpected opportunities and taking leaps of faith can lead to amazing experiences and personal growth. Embracing naivety and excitement allows us to create unique and memorable journeys in life.
  • Maintaining meaningful connections and cherishing the time spent together are valuable lessons. Prioritizing relationships and seizing opportunities can lead to personal and professional growth.
  • Working on projects globally brings challenges that require adaptability and quick learning, such as understanding different markets' expectations and keeping teams motivated to deliver great design.
  • The future is full of exciting opportunities and possibilities, especially when it comes to establishing and growing a service design team. Embracing the potential and putting in the necessary work can lead to exciting outcomes and personal fulfillment.
  • The most cherished memories from working on projects are not about the physical outcomes, but rather the people and experiences that were shared. These memories serve as a reminder of the joy and bonds formed during the collaborative process.
  • In design and project planning, having a well-defined process and being open to exploration are crucial. Renovation presents greater challenges than new builds, requiring creativity to enhance the space within constraints.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “I like the term tour guide. I don't like the word boss.” - Ben Nicholas

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3004 Our guest this week is a designer who believes that the best results come from challenging the norm. With over 20 years in the industry, he knows what makes and breaks a project. Joining the show is Chief Brand and Design Officer at Design Environments, Ben Nicholas!


Ben sits down with Host Dan Ryan for a conversation on the importance of building human connections in all elements of the industry. Ben shares how his route as a paperboy inspired his love for hospitality, his philosophy of creating designs that foster genuine and effortless hospitality experiences, and the importance of challenging the norm.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating connections and ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging and being part of something. It extends beyond physical spaces like hotels and can be experienced in restaurants, bars, and everyday life.
  • Being open to unexpected opportunities and taking leaps of faith can lead to amazing experiences and personal growth. Embracing naivety and excitement allows us to create unique and memorable journeys in life.
  • Maintaining meaningful connections and cherishing the time spent together are valuable lessons. Prioritizing relationships and seizing opportunities can lead to personal and professional growth.
  • Working on projects globally brings challenges that require adaptability and quick learning, such as understanding different markets' expectations and keeping teams motivated to deliver great design.
  • The future is full of exciting opportunities and possibilities, especially when it comes to establishing and growing a service design team. Embracing the potential and putting in the necessary work can lead to exciting outcomes and personal fulfillment.
  • The most cherished memories from working on projects are not about the physical outcomes, but rather the people and experiences that were shared. These memories serve as a reminder of the joy and bonds formed during the collaborative process.
  • In design and project planning, having a well-defined process and being open to exploration are crucial. Renovation presents greater challenges than new builds, requiring creativity to enhance the space within constraints.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “I like the term tour guide. I don't like the word boss.” - Ben Nicholas

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Adaptive Reuse And Sustainability - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 138 138 138 Adaptive Reuse And Sustainability - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 138 full 8c687a1b-997e-478c-83ef-e57935041be5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8c469e96 Welcome to 2024! As we embark on a new year, our resolution is to shift our attention to the remarkable sustainability initiatives happening within the hospitality industry. In the current climate, sustainability has become increasingly crucial, benefiting not only the planet but also businesses themselves.


To kick-start this focus, we’re bringing you a compilation of past episodes centered around sustainability and adaptive reuse. In this compilation, we feature conversations with past guests who are true experts in the field of sustainability and at transforming old buildings into vibrant, renewed spaces. Join us as we explore innovative solutions and inspiring stories in our quest for a more sustainable future.


In this episode you’ll hear from Founder and CEO of MindClick: JoAnna Abrams, Partner at Dutch East Design: Dieter Cartwright, President at Becker + Becker Associates: Bruce Becker, and Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE: Heather Ciszczon.


Takeaways:

  • The importance of measuring and recognizing the impact of sustainability is increasing in the marketplace. Financial institutions are leading the way by committing to carbon neutrality in lending and embracing measurement practices for a sustainable future.
  • Making the decision to disconnect from fossil fuels and prioritize sustainable qualifications, such as Passive House and Net Zero, are crucial steps towards achieving a high level of performance and sustainability in building projects.
  • Despite brands making pledges to reduce fossil fuel emissions, emissions in full-service hotels have been increasing. This disconnect between intentions and actions calls for more integrated efforts in the hospitality industry to achieve sustainable practices.
  • Historic tax credits play a vital role in preserving and adapting old buildings for revitalization, but navigating the requirements and preferences of review programs can be challenging.

Links:

Connect with JoAnna


Connect with Dieter


Connect with Bruce


Connect with Heather

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Welcome to 2024! As we embark on a new year, our resolution is to shift our attention to the remarkable sustainability initiatives happening within the hospitality industry. In the current climate, sustainability has become increasingly crucial, benefiting not only the planet but also businesses themselves.


To kick-start this focus, we’re bringing you a compilation of past episodes centered around sustainability and adaptive reuse. In this compilation, we feature conversations with past guests who are true experts in the field of sustainability and at transforming old buildings into vibrant, renewed spaces. Join us as we explore innovative solutions and inspiring stories in our quest for a more sustainable future.


In this episode you’ll hear from Founder and CEO of MindClick: JoAnna Abrams, Partner at Dutch East Design: Dieter Cartwright, President at Becker + Becker Associates: Bruce Becker, and Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE: Heather Ciszczon.


Takeaways:

  • The importance of measuring and recognizing the impact of sustainability is increasing in the marketplace. Financial institutions are leading the way by committing to carbon neutrality in lending and embracing measurement practices for a sustainable future.
  • Making the decision to disconnect from fossil fuels and prioritize sustainable qualifications, such as Passive House and Net Zero, are crucial steps towards achieving a high level of performance and sustainability in building projects.
  • Despite brands making pledges to reduce fossil fuel emissions, emissions in full-service hotels have been increasing. This disconnect between intentions and actions calls for more integrated efforts in the hospitality industry to achieve sustainable practices.
  • Historic tax credits play a vital role in preserving and adapting old buildings for revitalization, but navigating the requirements and preferences of review programs can be challenging.

Links:

Connect with JoAnna


Connect with Dieter


Connect with Bruce


Connect with Heather

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Jan 2024 07:56:13 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1928 Welcome to 2024! As we embark on a new year, our resolution is to shift our attention to the remarkable sustainability initiatives happening within the hospitality industry. In the current climate, sustainability has become increasingly crucial, benefiting not only the planet but also businesses themselves.


To kick-start this focus, we’re bringing you a compilation of past episodes centered around sustainability and adaptive reuse. In this compilation, we feature conversations with past guests who are true experts in the field of sustainability and at transforming old buildings into vibrant, renewed spaces. Join us as we explore innovative solutions and inspiring stories in our quest for a more sustainable future.


In this episode you’ll hear from Founder and CEO of MindClick: JoAnna Abrams, Partner at Dutch East Design: Dieter Cartwright, President at Becker + Becker Associates: Bruce Becker, and Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE: Heather Ciszczon.


Takeaways:

  • The importance of measuring and recognizing the impact of sustainability is increasing in the marketplace. Financial institutions are leading the way by committing to carbon neutrality in lending and embracing measurement practices for a sustainable future.
  • Making the decision to disconnect from fossil fuels and prioritize sustainable qualifications, such as Passive House and Net Zero, are crucial steps towards achieving a high level of performance and sustainability in building projects.
  • Despite brands making pledges to reduce fossil fuel emissions, emissions in full-service hotels have been increasing. This disconnect between intentions and actions calls for more integrated efforts in the hospitality industry to achieve sustainable practices.
  • Historic tax credits play a vital role in preserving and adapting old buildings for revitalization, but navigating the requirements and preferences of review programs can be challenging.

Links:

Connect with JoAnna


Connect with Dieter


Connect with Bruce


Connect with Heather

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Future Of Augmented Hospitality - Damien Perrot - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 137 137 137 The Future Of Augmented Hospitality - Damien Perrot - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 137 full 8b57112c-fbc0-4d83-b485-8af476383dcb https://share.transistor.fm/s/e9313526 Joining the show this week is someone who believes that hotels are more than just a place to sleep and eat. Please welcome to the show, Global Chief Design, Technical Services & Innovation Officer for Premium, Midscale & Economy brands at Accor, Damien Perrot!

In this vibrant conversation between Dan Ryan and Damien, the duo delve into the world of hospitality, hotel industry and its transformations. Damien shares his insights on everything from creating unique hotel experiences to the future of the industry. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about connecting with people and leaving a lasting impression. It's the art of welcoming strangers who could become friends, even if you will only know them for a short time.
  • The importance of creating memorable experiences in the hospitality industry cannot be understated. It's not just about food and beverage, but also about the ambiance and overall experience that sets a property apart and creates a destination.
  • Creating a meaningful guest experience in a hotel involves immersing oneself in the local culture and surroundings, ensuring both guests and locals can truly live the experience they desire. This approach also proves to be profitable for hotel owners.
  • Innovation in the hospitality industry extends beyond the confines of a hotel, encompassing the entire travel experience. By addressing pain points and enhancing guest satisfaction, hotels can create a positive and memorable stay for travelers.
  • Hotels face the challenge of managing travelers' luggage, which often requires dedicated staff and even the use of meeting rooms. By allowing travelers to conveniently check their luggage at the hotel, the process is more efficient and hassle-free.
  • Design in hotels goes beyond aesthetics, playing a vital role in guest experience. From achieving sustainability goals to driving profitability, investing in efficient and innovative solutions now is crucial for future success in a rapidly changing world.
  • In the ever-changing world, being a part of shaping the future and challenging norms is exciting. Hospitality industry, like hotels, can play a vital role in evolving cities and ensuring a high quality of life amidst increasing urban density.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is about welcoming people who are not yet your friends, but could become your friends.” - Damien Perrot

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is someone who believes that hotels are more than just a place to sleep and eat. Please welcome to the show, Global Chief Design, Technical Services & Innovation Officer for Premium, Midscale & Economy brands at Accor, Damien Perrot!

In this vibrant conversation between Dan Ryan and Damien, the duo delve into the world of hospitality, hotel industry and its transformations. Damien shares his insights on everything from creating unique hotel experiences to the future of the industry. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about connecting with people and leaving a lasting impression. It's the art of welcoming strangers who could become friends, even if you will only know them for a short time.
  • The importance of creating memorable experiences in the hospitality industry cannot be understated. It's not just about food and beverage, but also about the ambiance and overall experience that sets a property apart and creates a destination.
  • Creating a meaningful guest experience in a hotel involves immersing oneself in the local culture and surroundings, ensuring both guests and locals can truly live the experience they desire. This approach also proves to be profitable for hotel owners.
  • Innovation in the hospitality industry extends beyond the confines of a hotel, encompassing the entire travel experience. By addressing pain points and enhancing guest satisfaction, hotels can create a positive and memorable stay for travelers.
  • Hotels face the challenge of managing travelers' luggage, which often requires dedicated staff and even the use of meeting rooms. By allowing travelers to conveniently check their luggage at the hotel, the process is more efficient and hassle-free.
  • Design in hotels goes beyond aesthetics, playing a vital role in guest experience. From achieving sustainability goals to driving profitability, investing in efficient and innovative solutions now is crucial for future success in a rapidly changing world.
  • In the ever-changing world, being a part of shaping the future and challenging norms is exciting. Hospitality industry, like hotels, can play a vital role in evolving cities and ensuring a high quality of life amidst increasing urban density.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is about welcoming people who are not yet your friends, but could become your friends.” - Damien Perrot

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:01:20 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3452 Joining the show this week is someone who believes that hotels are more than just a place to sleep and eat. Please welcome to the show, Global Chief Design, Technical Services & Innovation Officer for Premium, Midscale & Economy brands at Accor, Damien Perrot!

In this vibrant conversation between Dan Ryan and Damien, the duo delve into the world of hospitality, hotel industry and its transformations. Damien shares his insights on everything from creating unique hotel experiences to the future of the industry. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about connecting with people and leaving a lasting impression. It's the art of welcoming strangers who could become friends, even if you will only know them for a short time.
  • The importance of creating memorable experiences in the hospitality industry cannot be understated. It's not just about food and beverage, but also about the ambiance and overall experience that sets a property apart and creates a destination.
  • Creating a meaningful guest experience in a hotel involves immersing oneself in the local culture and surroundings, ensuring both guests and locals can truly live the experience they desire. This approach also proves to be profitable for hotel owners.
  • Innovation in the hospitality industry extends beyond the confines of a hotel, encompassing the entire travel experience. By addressing pain points and enhancing guest satisfaction, hotels can create a positive and memorable stay for travelers.
  • Hotels face the challenge of managing travelers' luggage, which often requires dedicated staff and even the use of meeting rooms. By allowing travelers to conveniently check their luggage at the hotel, the process is more efficient and hassle-free.
  • Design in hotels goes beyond aesthetics, playing a vital role in guest experience. From achieving sustainability goals to driving profitability, investing in efficient and innovative solutions now is crucial for future success in a rapidly changing world.
  • In the ever-changing world, being a part of shaping the future and challenging norms is exciting. Hospitality industry, like hotels, can play a vital role in evolving cities and ensuring a high quality of life amidst increasing urban density.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is about welcoming people who are not yet your friends, but could become your friends.” - Damien Perrot

Links:



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Collect The Dots To Connect The Dots - Jessica Gidari - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 136 136 136 Collect The Dots To Connect The Dots - Jessica Gidari - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 136 full 162d1900-cc59-410f-94cd-63eed769e466 https://share.transistor.fm/s/141fcf5b Our guest this week has a passion for creating restaurants that redefine the dining experience. With the innate ability to take a concept and turn it into reality, she drives innovation in the industry. Welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Concept Development at Union Square Events, Jessica Gidari!


Dan Ryan hosts Jessica to delve into her approach to creating unique restaurant experiences and her understanding of true hospitality. Jessica shares the importance of collecting the dots, discusses her experiences with Union Square Hospitality, and explores the power of hospitality in all aspects of life and business.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of doing something for someone rather than just doing it to them. While it may be customary to offer complimentary drinks, a customer may not want them, thus putting the customer in an awkward situation. 
  • Active listening and making connections are key elements in collecting valuable information. Utilizing these skills allows for effective networking and the facilitation of beneficial collaborations.
  • Making meaningful connections with others can unlock the magic of building strong relationships, fostering teamwork, and enhancing personal growth. These connections create moments of excitement and shared understanding that can have a lasting impact.
  • A cohesive combination of design, atmosphere, and narrative in a space can create a powerful and memorable experience. Ensuring all elements align and speak the same language enhances the overall impact and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Prompt problem-solving is crucial in the hospitality industry, ensuring a seamless experience for guests even in challenging situations. By swiftly addressing issues and offering suitable alternatives, restaurants can uphold customer satisfaction.
  • Hospitality should start by warmly welcoming guests and understanding their purpose for visiting. By paying attention to their cues and preferences, you can offer appropriate suggestions to enhance their experience.
  • Hospitality is crucial in corporate environments, as it creates a sense of belonging and pride for employees while enhancing their overall experience. Incorporating innovative food and beverage concepts helps foster a positive and engaging work environment.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “Hospitality is when you do something for someone rather than to someone.” - Jessica Gidari

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week has a passion for creating restaurants that redefine the dining experience. With the innate ability to take a concept and turn it into reality, she drives innovation in the industry. Welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Concept Development at Union Square Events, Jessica Gidari!


Dan Ryan hosts Jessica to delve into her approach to creating unique restaurant experiences and her understanding of true hospitality. Jessica shares the importance of collecting the dots, discusses her experiences with Union Square Hospitality, and explores the power of hospitality in all aspects of life and business.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of doing something for someone rather than just doing it to them. While it may be customary to offer complimentary drinks, a customer may not want them, thus putting the customer in an awkward situation. 
  • Active listening and making connections are key elements in collecting valuable information. Utilizing these skills allows for effective networking and the facilitation of beneficial collaborations.
  • Making meaningful connections with others can unlock the magic of building strong relationships, fostering teamwork, and enhancing personal growth. These connections create moments of excitement and shared understanding that can have a lasting impact.
  • A cohesive combination of design, atmosphere, and narrative in a space can create a powerful and memorable experience. Ensuring all elements align and speak the same language enhances the overall impact and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Prompt problem-solving is crucial in the hospitality industry, ensuring a seamless experience for guests even in challenging situations. By swiftly addressing issues and offering suitable alternatives, restaurants can uphold customer satisfaction.
  • Hospitality should start by warmly welcoming guests and understanding their purpose for visiting. By paying attention to their cues and preferences, you can offer appropriate suggestions to enhance their experience.
  • Hospitality is crucial in corporate environments, as it creates a sense of belonging and pride for employees while enhancing their overall experience. Incorporating innovative food and beverage concepts helps foster a positive and engaging work environment.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “Hospitality is when you do something for someone rather than to someone.” - Jessica Gidari

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2882 Our guest this week has a passion for creating restaurants that redefine the dining experience. With the innate ability to take a concept and turn it into reality, she drives innovation in the industry. Welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Concept Development at Union Square Events, Jessica Gidari!


Dan Ryan hosts Jessica to delve into her approach to creating unique restaurant experiences and her understanding of true hospitality. Jessica shares the importance of collecting the dots, discusses her experiences with Union Square Hospitality, and explores the power of hospitality in all aspects of life and business.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of doing something for someone rather than just doing it to them. While it may be customary to offer complimentary drinks, a customer may not want them, thus putting the customer in an awkward situation. 
  • Active listening and making connections are key elements in collecting valuable information. Utilizing these skills allows for effective networking and the facilitation of beneficial collaborations.
  • Making meaningful connections with others can unlock the magic of building strong relationships, fostering teamwork, and enhancing personal growth. These connections create moments of excitement and shared understanding that can have a lasting impact.
  • A cohesive combination of design, atmosphere, and narrative in a space can create a powerful and memorable experience. Ensuring all elements align and speak the same language enhances the overall impact and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Prompt problem-solving is crucial in the hospitality industry, ensuring a seamless experience for guests even in challenging situations. By swiftly addressing issues and offering suitable alternatives, restaurants can uphold customer satisfaction.
  • Hospitality should start by warmly welcoming guests and understanding their purpose for visiting. By paying attention to their cues and preferences, you can offer appropriate suggestions to enhance their experience.
  • Hospitality is crucial in corporate environments, as it creates a sense of belonging and pride for employees while enhancing their overall experience. Incorporating innovative food and beverage concepts helps foster a positive and engaging work environment.

Quote of the Show:

  •  “Hospitality is when you do something for someone rather than to someone.” - Jessica Gidari

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Transforming Spaces Through Adaptive Reuse - Heather Ciszczon - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 135 135 135 Transforming Spaces Through Adaptive Reuse - Heather Ciszczon - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 135 full 678b3dd8-c4e1-42d8-95d1-252e8511f7e2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/28719148 Our guest this week is a talented designer with over 20 years of experience. She’s a leader who helps transform spaces into experiences that are truly part of their local communities. Joining the show is Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE, Heather Ciszczon!


Heather joins host, Dan Ryan, for a comprehensive discussion on her journey from design to development. Heather discusses the intricacies of her work, including exceptional renovation projects like the 21C Museum Hotel in St. Louis. Additionally, Heather touches on the challenges of historic tax credit works and the responsibility of the hospitality industry in making outsized impact on the lives of people through innovation and engagement.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about meeting someone where they are at and where they’re most comfortable. While luxury experiences are nice, your customers may want something more relaxed. 
  • As a designer, when working on any project, you need to fully understand what the owner wants. Understanding those goals allows you to more effectively meet them, and deliver a satisfactory end product. 
  • When you are the owner of a project, you need to help give your team agency to work effectively. Helping them understand the why behind your motivations will allow them to carry out your vision to its fullest. 
  • While any project requires a good team, renovations have particular nuances that members need to handle. Having team members who are familiar with historic buildings and tax credit work are crucial understandings in addition to their design skills. 
  • When renovating old buildings, there is a fine line between preservation and adaptation. Adjustments to a building to make it function more efficiently as a hotel may face pushback from preservation societies; designers need to be sensitive to these needs. 
  • When trying to ingrain a property in the local community, partnerships are key. By partnering with local groups and providers, you help meet everyone's needs, have stronger procurement processes, and invest in the local community. 
  • The foundation of a good team is trust. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, establish trust early on. With a strong connection between your team, issues that arise will be much easier to handle. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That's not my skill set is to make something of a blank piece of paper. But if you give me a bunch of puzzle pieces, I will find a way to solve them.” - Heather Ciszczon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a talented designer with over 20 years of experience. She’s a leader who helps transform spaces into experiences that are truly part of their local communities. Joining the show is Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE, Heather Ciszczon!


Heather joins host, Dan Ryan, for a comprehensive discussion on her journey from design to development. Heather discusses the intricacies of her work, including exceptional renovation projects like the 21C Museum Hotel in St. Louis. Additionally, Heather touches on the challenges of historic tax credit works and the responsibility of the hospitality industry in making outsized impact on the lives of people through innovation and engagement.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about meeting someone where they are at and where they’re most comfortable. While luxury experiences are nice, your customers may want something more relaxed. 
  • As a designer, when working on any project, you need to fully understand what the owner wants. Understanding those goals allows you to more effectively meet them, and deliver a satisfactory end product. 
  • When you are the owner of a project, you need to help give your team agency to work effectively. Helping them understand the why behind your motivations will allow them to carry out your vision to its fullest. 
  • While any project requires a good team, renovations have particular nuances that members need to handle. Having team members who are familiar with historic buildings and tax credit work are crucial understandings in addition to their design skills. 
  • When renovating old buildings, there is a fine line between preservation and adaptation. Adjustments to a building to make it function more efficiently as a hotel may face pushback from preservation societies; designers need to be sensitive to these needs. 
  • When trying to ingrain a property in the local community, partnerships are key. By partnering with local groups and providers, you help meet everyone's needs, have stronger procurement processes, and invest in the local community. 
  • The foundation of a good team is trust. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, establish trust early on. With a strong connection between your team, issues that arise will be much easier to handle. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That's not my skill set is to make something of a blank piece of paper. But if you give me a bunch of puzzle pieces, I will find a way to solve them.” - Heather Ciszczon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3248 Our guest this week is a talented designer with over 20 years of experience. She’s a leader who helps transform spaces into experiences that are truly part of their local communities. Joining the show is Chief Development Officer at NuovoRE, Heather Ciszczon!


Heather joins host, Dan Ryan, for a comprehensive discussion on her journey from design to development. Heather discusses the intricacies of her work, including exceptional renovation projects like the 21C Museum Hotel in St. Louis. Additionally, Heather touches on the challenges of historic tax credit works and the responsibility of the hospitality industry in making outsized impact on the lives of people through innovation and engagement.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about meeting someone where they are at and where they’re most comfortable. While luxury experiences are nice, your customers may want something more relaxed. 
  • As a designer, when working on any project, you need to fully understand what the owner wants. Understanding those goals allows you to more effectively meet them, and deliver a satisfactory end product. 
  • When you are the owner of a project, you need to help give your team agency to work effectively. Helping them understand the why behind your motivations will allow them to carry out your vision to its fullest. 
  • While any project requires a good team, renovations have particular nuances that members need to handle. Having team members who are familiar with historic buildings and tax credit work are crucial understandings in addition to their design skills. 
  • When renovating old buildings, there is a fine line between preservation and adaptation. Adjustments to a building to make it function more efficiently as a hotel may face pushback from preservation societies; designers need to be sensitive to these needs. 
  • When trying to ingrain a property in the local community, partnerships are key. By partnering with local groups and providers, you help meet everyone's needs, have stronger procurement processes, and invest in the local community. 
  • The foundation of a good team is trust. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, establish trust early on. With a strong connection between your team, issues that arise will be much easier to handle. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That's not my skill set is to make something of a blank piece of paper. But if you give me a bunch of puzzle pieces, I will find a way to solve them.” - Heather Ciszczon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality For The Planet - Bruce Becker - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 134 134 134 Hospitality For The Planet - Bruce Becker - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 134 full 19befbeb-e1b8-467f-bc9f-3df001aec7d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2b6d7d66 Today's guest leads the charge of finding new ways to build and design sustainably. He’s responsible for the first zero emissions and passive house certified hotel in the United States. Our guest this week is none other than President at Becker + Becker Associates, Bruce Becker!

Bruce joins Dan Ryan from the Hotel Marcel in New Haven, Connecticut, for a conversation on how he is trailblazing the world of sustainable hotels. Bruce shares his motivations for the hotel, how other brands need to better incentivize sustainable building practices, and how he took on his first hotel project. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about caring for both people and their environments. You can’t be generous with hospitality while polluting the planet. Hospitality means preserving the future while innovating in the present. 
  • Beyond the good for the planet, sustainable initiatives can save a hotel on budget. A lower energy bill can save you as much money as having an extra 20 rooms. For the Hotel Marcell, their initiatives add up to about $300,000 a year to their bottom line. 
  • Despite the operating benefits of more environmentally friendly options, many brands still have issues implementing them, as no one directly owns these initiatives. To solve this, brands need to appoint individuals to choose more sustainable options. 
  • When hotel designers are over budget, their first intention is to start cutting back on costs from different sections. Environmental tax credits and grants are a potent way to adopt new technology while making budgets more efficient.
  • When designing a hotel, it’s important to consider how each of the different functions interplay with each other. When you have over 100 rooms, you also need meeting rooms, lounge space, and open space. 
  • When looking to add solar to a hotel, building roof space can be a limiting factor. Covering parking spaces with solar panels offers a unique way to take advantage of existing space. A 4 story hotel has enough parking space to be 100% net zero.
  • While there are incentives for individual designers to adopt sustainable practices, there needs to be more pressure from brands. Much like a hotel can’t open until passing a safety inspection, brands should require a certain level of sustainability before opening. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to have a holistic approach to taking care of people and their things and their environment and their planet.” - Bruce Becker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today's guest leads the charge of finding new ways to build and design sustainably. He’s responsible for the first zero emissions and passive house certified hotel in the United States. Our guest this week is none other than President at Becker + Becker Associates, Bruce Becker!

Bruce joins Dan Ryan from the Hotel Marcel in New Haven, Connecticut, for a conversation on how he is trailblazing the world of sustainable hotels. Bruce shares his motivations for the hotel, how other brands need to better incentivize sustainable building practices, and how he took on his first hotel project. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about caring for both people and their environments. You can’t be generous with hospitality while polluting the planet. Hospitality means preserving the future while innovating in the present. 
  • Beyond the good for the planet, sustainable initiatives can save a hotel on budget. A lower energy bill can save you as much money as having an extra 20 rooms. For the Hotel Marcell, their initiatives add up to about $300,000 a year to their bottom line. 
  • Despite the operating benefits of more environmentally friendly options, many brands still have issues implementing them, as no one directly owns these initiatives. To solve this, brands need to appoint individuals to choose more sustainable options. 
  • When hotel designers are over budget, their first intention is to start cutting back on costs from different sections. Environmental tax credits and grants are a potent way to adopt new technology while making budgets more efficient.
  • When designing a hotel, it’s important to consider how each of the different functions interplay with each other. When you have over 100 rooms, you also need meeting rooms, lounge space, and open space. 
  • When looking to add solar to a hotel, building roof space can be a limiting factor. Covering parking spaces with solar panels offers a unique way to take advantage of existing space. A 4 story hotel has enough parking space to be 100% net zero.
  • While there are incentives for individual designers to adopt sustainable practices, there needs to be more pressure from brands. Much like a hotel can’t open until passing a safety inspection, brands should require a certain level of sustainability before opening. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to have a holistic approach to taking care of people and their things and their environment and their planet.” - Bruce Becker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4877 Today's guest leads the charge of finding new ways to build and design sustainably. He’s responsible for the first zero emissions and passive house certified hotel in the United States. Our guest this week is none other than President at Becker + Becker Associates, Bruce Becker!

Bruce joins Dan Ryan from the Hotel Marcel in New Haven, Connecticut, for a conversation on how he is trailblazing the world of sustainable hotels. Bruce shares his motivations for the hotel, how other brands need to better incentivize sustainable building practices, and how he took on his first hotel project. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about caring for both people and their environments. You can’t be generous with hospitality while polluting the planet. Hospitality means preserving the future while innovating in the present. 
  • Beyond the good for the planet, sustainable initiatives can save a hotel on budget. A lower energy bill can save you as much money as having an extra 20 rooms. For the Hotel Marcell, their initiatives add up to about $300,000 a year to their bottom line. 
  • Despite the operating benefits of more environmentally friendly options, many brands still have issues implementing them, as no one directly owns these initiatives. To solve this, brands need to appoint individuals to choose more sustainable options. 
  • When hotel designers are over budget, their first intention is to start cutting back on costs from different sections. Environmental tax credits and grants are a potent way to adopt new technology while making budgets more efficient.
  • When designing a hotel, it’s important to consider how each of the different functions interplay with each other. When you have over 100 rooms, you also need meeting rooms, lounge space, and open space. 
  • When looking to add solar to a hotel, building roof space can be a limiting factor. Covering parking spaces with solar panels offers a unique way to take advantage of existing space. A 4 story hotel has enough parking space to be 100% net zero.
  • While there are incentives for individual designers to adopt sustainable practices, there needs to be more pressure from brands. Much like a hotel can’t open until passing a safety inspection, brands should require a certain level of sustainability before opening. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to have a holistic approach to taking care of people and their things and their environment and their planet.” - Bruce Becker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan BDNY 2023 - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 133 133 133 BDNY 2023 - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 133 full 7aae893c-1fad-43b6-a576-d0f4fcba8a6c https://share.transistor.fm/s/8f14ad5a In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re live from BDNY 2023! Dan chats with some expo attendees, organizers, and Gold Key winners to see what excites them most about BDNY. We’ll discuss why guests have come from as far as Hawaii, what is exciting them about the future, and how to incorporate hospitality into expos.


Links:

Shaleah Soliven

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaleah-soliven-03191726/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 
  • Website: https://www.shaleahsoliven.com/ 


Michelle Jaime

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-jaime-487a5b4/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 


Julie Frank

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecfrank/ 
  • Website: https://aspen.com/ 


Drew Stuart

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-stuart-22bb286/ 
  • Website: https://inc.nyc/ 


Paul Bienkowski

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bienkowski-0428b57/ 
  • Website: https://hospitalitydesign.com/ 


Shout Outs:
02:49 - Gensler: https://www.gensler.com/ 
02:53 - Shore Hotel: https://www.shorehotel.com/ 
06:10 - Rockefeller Center: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/ 

Ways to Tune In: 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re live from BDNY 2023! Dan chats with some expo attendees, organizers, and Gold Key winners to see what excites them most about BDNY. We’ll discuss why guests have come from as far as Hawaii, what is exciting them about the future, and how to incorporate hospitality into expos.


Links:

Shaleah Soliven

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaleah-soliven-03191726/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 
  • Website: https://www.shaleahsoliven.com/ 


Michelle Jaime

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-jaime-487a5b4/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 


Julie Frank

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecfrank/ 
  • Website: https://aspen.com/ 


Drew Stuart

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-stuart-22bb286/ 
  • Website: https://inc.nyc/ 


Paul Bienkowski

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bienkowski-0428b57/ 
  • Website: https://hospitalitydesign.com/ 


Shout Outs:
02:49 - Gensler: https://www.gensler.com/ 
02:53 - Shore Hotel: https://www.shorehotel.com/ 
06:10 - Rockefeller Center: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/ 

Ways to Tune In: 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:48:21 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 671 In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re live from BDNY 2023! Dan chats with some expo attendees, organizers, and Gold Key winners to see what excites them most about BDNY. We’ll discuss why guests have come from as far as Hawaii, what is exciting them about the future, and how to incorporate hospitality into expos.


Links:

Shaleah Soliven

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaleah-soliven-03191726/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 
  • Website: https://www.shaleahsoliven.com/ 


Michelle Jaime

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-jaime-487a5b4/ 
  • Website: https://www.thevanguardtheory.com/ 


Julie Frank

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecfrank/ 
  • Website: https://aspen.com/ 


Drew Stuart

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-stuart-22bb286/ 
  • Website: https://inc.nyc/ 


Paul Bienkowski

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bienkowski-0428b57/ 
  • Website: https://hospitalitydesign.com/ 


Shout Outs:
02:49 - Gensler: https://www.gensler.com/ 
02:53 - Shore Hotel: https://www.shorehotel.com/ 
06:10 - Rockefeller Center: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/ 

Ways to Tune In: 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Owning Your Results - Hector Sanchez - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 132 132 132 Owning Your Results - Hector Sanchez - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 132 full c6188645-2112-449b-86f4-b81495182156 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2da50cc5 Joining the show this week is an experienced executive who has a history of driving brands to success. Please welcome to the show, Head of Development for Ashford Inc and CEO at Premier, a subsidiary of Ashford, Hector Sanchez!


Hector sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share the lessons he has learned from his time in the hospitality industry. Hector dives into the importance of owning mistakes when they happen, the challenges of aligning on budget, and how to build teams that play to their members’ strengths. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of serving people and creating unique experiences that they can share with others. It plays a crucial role in creating memorable moments and fostering connections between individuals.
  • Taking responsibility and providing a solution is crucial in resolving issues effectively, as it demonstrates accountability and ownership, unlike finger-pointing and avoiding responsibility.
  • Ownership groups in the hotel industry typically do not bring various functions, such as project management, in-house. While some may handle design and project management internally, they often rely on external firms for expertise and assistance.
  • As a newcomer to the hospitality industry, it’s important to take note of the small details around you. Observing how other projects came to fruition and noting their nuances will help you ramp up your design knowledge.
  • While having a holistic understanding of your industry is beneficial, it doesn’t mean you need to be an expert in every discipline. Play to your strengths and build a team whose members fill in each other’s gaps. 
  • The disconnect between budget and creativity in the hospitality industry can be a large challenge. Being mindful of budget constraints while fostering creativity is crucial for successful project execution.


Quote of the Show:

  • “To me, it's just about how you react to those issues? Do you just hide from them? Do you ignore the calls or do you rise up?” - Hector Sanchez


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining the show this week is an experienced executive who has a history of driving brands to success. Please welcome to the show, Head of Development for Ashford Inc and CEO at Premier, a subsidiary of Ashford, Hector Sanchez!


Hector sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share the lessons he has learned from his time in the hospitality industry. Hector dives into the importance of owning mistakes when they happen, the challenges of aligning on budget, and how to build teams that play to their members’ strengths. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of serving people and creating unique experiences that they can share with others. It plays a crucial role in creating memorable moments and fostering connections between individuals.
  • Taking responsibility and providing a solution is crucial in resolving issues effectively, as it demonstrates accountability and ownership, unlike finger-pointing and avoiding responsibility.
  • Ownership groups in the hotel industry typically do not bring various functions, such as project management, in-house. While some may handle design and project management internally, they often rely on external firms for expertise and assistance.
  • As a newcomer to the hospitality industry, it’s important to take note of the small details around you. Observing how other projects came to fruition and noting their nuances will help you ramp up your design knowledge.
  • While having a holistic understanding of your industry is beneficial, it doesn’t mean you need to be an expert in every discipline. Play to your strengths and build a team whose members fill in each other’s gaps. 
  • The disconnect between budget and creativity in the hospitality industry can be a large challenge. Being mindful of budget constraints while fostering creativity is crucial for successful project execution.


Quote of the Show:

  • “To me, it's just about how you react to those issues? Do you just hide from them? Do you ignore the calls or do you rise up?” - Hector Sanchez


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3142 Joining the show this week is an experienced executive who has a history of driving brands to success. Please welcome to the show, Head of Development for Ashford Inc and CEO at Premier, a subsidiary of Ashford, Hector Sanchez!


Hector sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share the lessons he has learned from his time in the hospitality industry. Hector dives into the importance of owning mistakes when they happen, the challenges of aligning on budget, and how to build teams that play to their members’ strengths. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the act of serving people and creating unique experiences that they can share with others. It plays a crucial role in creating memorable moments and fostering connections between individuals.
  • Taking responsibility and providing a solution is crucial in resolving issues effectively, as it demonstrates accountability and ownership, unlike finger-pointing and avoiding responsibility.
  • Ownership groups in the hotel industry typically do not bring various functions, such as project management, in-house. While some may handle design and project management internally, they often rely on external firms for expertise and assistance.
  • As a newcomer to the hospitality industry, it’s important to take note of the small details around you. Observing how other projects came to fruition and noting their nuances will help you ramp up your design knowledge.
  • While having a holistic understanding of your industry is beneficial, it doesn’t mean you need to be an expert in every discipline. Play to your strengths and build a team whose members fill in each other’s gaps. 
  • The disconnect between budget and creativity in the hospitality industry can be a large challenge. Being mindful of budget constraints while fostering creativity is crucial for successful project execution.


Quote of the Show:

  • “To me, it's just about how you react to those issues? Do you just hide from them? Do you ignore the calls or do you rise up?” - Hector Sanchez


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Understanding All The Parts And Pieces - Mitch Parker - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 131 131 131 Understanding All The Parts And Pieces - Mitch Parker - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 131 full a72836c6-1c86-412b-8a4a-3d4cdbec3dd6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd94b72a Filling a hotel with furniture is about more than just picking the right chair, it’s about working with your client to get the right product set up the right way for them. Our guest this week is a well rounded hospitality professional and expert in all things FF&E. Joining the show is COO - FF&E Division & Partner at The Parker Company, Mitch Parker!


Mitch sits down with Host Dan Ryan to dive into all things procurement. Mitch outlines the importance of planning for proper time, the intricacies that go into furnishing a hotel, and the need for designers to design for the requirements of the hotel.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about service. In a hotel, it’s providing a place for others to feel comfortable. In procurement, it’s about providing efficient service that helps your client complete their project on time and under budget. 
  • With every item, there is often an unseen level of customization behind the scenes. Multiple locations may use the same chair, but the color, texture, and finish can vary. Managing these changes is a behind the scenes responsibility of procurement. 
  • Design never happens in a vacuum, but is shaped by the bounds of what you are designing for. When designing furniture for hotels, an aesthetically pleasing design isn’t enough, it needs to also meet the functional requirements of the hotel. 
  • While it’s important to meet client needs, you also need to open a hotel on time. To help stay on schedule, highlight the importance of making decisions to clients, and try to reduce the number of 3rd party decision makers. 
  • As a leader of a business you need to balance employee agency with your own oversight. It’s important to give your employees agency to make their own decisions, but you want to be involved enough that when problems arise, you are able to help out. 
  • When furnishing a hotel, you need to understand how all the parts and pieces play into the overall guest experience. A single element can turn a positive experience negative for a guest, preventing them from returning to your hotel.  
  • As a purchaser, time is your best friend. It’s common for clients to change their mind or ask for revisions half way through the process. By building in a buffer, you can meet client requests without delaying the project.  

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can have a beautiful design, but if it can't be executed, you have a problem.” - Mitch Parker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Filling a hotel with furniture is about more than just picking the right chair, it’s about working with your client to get the right product set up the right way for them. Our guest this week is a well rounded hospitality professional and expert in all things FF&E. Joining the show is COO - FF&E Division & Partner at The Parker Company, Mitch Parker!


Mitch sits down with Host Dan Ryan to dive into all things procurement. Mitch outlines the importance of planning for proper time, the intricacies that go into furnishing a hotel, and the need for designers to design for the requirements of the hotel.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about service. In a hotel, it’s providing a place for others to feel comfortable. In procurement, it’s about providing efficient service that helps your client complete their project on time and under budget. 
  • With every item, there is often an unseen level of customization behind the scenes. Multiple locations may use the same chair, but the color, texture, and finish can vary. Managing these changes is a behind the scenes responsibility of procurement. 
  • Design never happens in a vacuum, but is shaped by the bounds of what you are designing for. When designing furniture for hotels, an aesthetically pleasing design isn’t enough, it needs to also meet the functional requirements of the hotel. 
  • While it’s important to meet client needs, you also need to open a hotel on time. To help stay on schedule, highlight the importance of making decisions to clients, and try to reduce the number of 3rd party decision makers. 
  • As a leader of a business you need to balance employee agency with your own oversight. It’s important to give your employees agency to make their own decisions, but you want to be involved enough that when problems arise, you are able to help out. 
  • When furnishing a hotel, you need to understand how all the parts and pieces play into the overall guest experience. A single element can turn a positive experience negative for a guest, preventing them from returning to your hotel.  
  • As a purchaser, time is your best friend. It’s common for clients to change their mind or ask for revisions half way through the process. By building in a buffer, you can meet client requests without delaying the project.  

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can have a beautiful design, but if it can't be executed, you have a problem.” - Mitch Parker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:34:22 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 4764 Filling a hotel with furniture is about more than just picking the right chair, it’s about working with your client to get the right product set up the right way for them. Our guest this week is a well rounded hospitality professional and expert in all things FF&E. Joining the show is COO - FF&E Division & Partner at The Parker Company, Mitch Parker!


Mitch sits down with Host Dan Ryan to dive into all things procurement. Mitch outlines the importance of planning for proper time, the intricacies that go into furnishing a hotel, and the need for designers to design for the requirements of the hotel.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about service. In a hotel, it’s providing a place for others to feel comfortable. In procurement, it’s about providing efficient service that helps your client complete their project on time and under budget. 
  • With every item, there is often an unseen level of customization behind the scenes. Multiple locations may use the same chair, but the color, texture, and finish can vary. Managing these changes is a behind the scenes responsibility of procurement. 
  • Design never happens in a vacuum, but is shaped by the bounds of what you are designing for. When designing furniture for hotels, an aesthetically pleasing design isn’t enough, it needs to also meet the functional requirements of the hotel. 
  • While it’s important to meet client needs, you also need to open a hotel on time. To help stay on schedule, highlight the importance of making decisions to clients, and try to reduce the number of 3rd party decision makers. 
  • As a leader of a business you need to balance employee agency with your own oversight. It’s important to give your employees agency to make their own decisions, but you want to be involved enough that when problems arise, you are able to help out. 
  • When furnishing a hotel, you need to understand how all the parts and pieces play into the overall guest experience. A single element can turn a positive experience negative for a guest, preventing them from returning to your hotel.  
  • As a purchaser, time is your best friend. It’s common for clients to change their mind or ask for revisions half way through the process. By building in a buffer, you can meet client requests without delaying the project.  

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can have a beautiful design, but if it can't be executed, you have a problem.” - Mitch Parker

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Radical Innovation - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 130 130 130 Radical Innovation - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 130 full 5379a873-991a-449f-8afc-111c56c7774c https://share.transistor.fm/s/a39e489f In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re featuring interviews from the 2023 Radical Innovation Awards. Dan speaks with Radical Innovation Founder John Hardy, and other event participants including Jury members, MC, and sponsors. Through each interview, you’ll hear about the excitement of the event, tips for anyone considering being a future juror, and which aspects of the designs stood out the most.

Featured Guests:


John Hardy


Mark Friesen


Raj Chandnani


Eran Chen


Damien Perrot


John Edelman


Vito Lotta



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re featuring interviews from the 2023 Radical Innovation Awards. Dan speaks with Radical Innovation Founder John Hardy, and other event participants including Jury members, MC, and sponsors. Through each interview, you’ll hear about the excitement of the event, tips for anyone considering being a future juror, and which aspects of the designs stood out the most.

Featured Guests:


John Hardy


Mark Friesen


Raj Chandnani


Eran Chen


Damien Perrot


John Edelman


Vito Lotta



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:21:04 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1299 In this special episode of Defining Hospitality, we’re featuring interviews from the 2023 Radical Innovation Awards. Dan speaks with Radical Innovation Founder John Hardy, and other event participants including Jury members, MC, and sponsors. Through each interview, you’ll hear about the excitement of the event, tips for anyone considering being a future juror, and which aspects of the designs stood out the most.

Featured Guests:


John Hardy


Mark Friesen


Raj Chandnani


Eran Chen


Damien Perrot


John Edelman


Vito Lotta



Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Creating Events That Bring People Together - Keisha Byrd - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 129 129 129 Creating Events That Bring People Together - Keisha Byrd - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 129 full a944d892-00ee-48be-b1a1-3cc69e2b6d47 https://share.transistor.fm/s/22262b05 On this episode, we’re joined by a show director who puts together some of the hospitality industry’s most popular events. Please welcome to the show, Brand Leader & Associate Show Director - Boutique Design at Emerald, Keisha Byrd! 

Keisha joins Host Dan Ryan to share what makes a successful event. Keisha highlights the importance of finding the right people, the satisfaction that comes from pulling off a successful event, and the ways students can get the most out of events. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating welcoming experiences, bringing people together, and making everyone feel like they belong. It is important to prioritize these aspects in order to foster a sense of unity and promote meaningful connections.
  • When it comes to putting together an amazing event, the right people make it a success. Your attendees are likely to forget the food and beverages that were served, but they will remember the conversations had and connections made. 
  • Putting on an event is a lot of work, but the feedback and positive messages make it all worth it. Hearing feedback from attendees not only makes you feel appreciated, but also helps shape future events. 
  • When vendors ask for a better space or more square footage, those are both signs of an event well done. Additional signs of success include the feedback from attendees who have found your event to be a useful resource. 
  • As events grow and evolve, there is an increased focus on highlighting specific designs. Future events will still feature a traditional expo hall, but will start to incorporate open houses that highlight both specific designs and their designers.  
  • Setting goals, being patient, and staying true to yourself are key factors in achieving personal growth and success. It is crucial to persevere and remain dedicated to your journey, as progress takes time and self-belief.
  • Listening and being patient with others, while embracing creativity and continuous learning, are valuable skills for events. These help to improve event experiences and foster constructive growth.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Knowing that what we're doing is actually connecting everyone to do business, that's what we're here for.” - Keisha Byrd


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> On this episode, we’re joined by a show director who puts together some of the hospitality industry’s most popular events. Please welcome to the show, Brand Leader & Associate Show Director - Boutique Design at Emerald, Keisha Byrd! 

Keisha joins Host Dan Ryan to share what makes a successful event. Keisha highlights the importance of finding the right people, the satisfaction that comes from pulling off a successful event, and the ways students can get the most out of events. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating welcoming experiences, bringing people together, and making everyone feel like they belong. It is important to prioritize these aspects in order to foster a sense of unity and promote meaningful connections.
  • When it comes to putting together an amazing event, the right people make it a success. Your attendees are likely to forget the food and beverages that were served, but they will remember the conversations had and connections made. 
  • Putting on an event is a lot of work, but the feedback and positive messages make it all worth it. Hearing feedback from attendees not only makes you feel appreciated, but also helps shape future events. 
  • When vendors ask for a better space or more square footage, those are both signs of an event well done. Additional signs of success include the feedback from attendees who have found your event to be a useful resource. 
  • As events grow and evolve, there is an increased focus on highlighting specific designs. Future events will still feature a traditional expo hall, but will start to incorporate open houses that highlight both specific designs and their designers.  
  • Setting goals, being patient, and staying true to yourself are key factors in achieving personal growth and success. It is crucial to persevere and remain dedicated to your journey, as progress takes time and self-belief.
  • Listening and being patient with others, while embracing creativity and continuous learning, are valuable skills for events. These help to improve event experiences and foster constructive growth.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Knowing that what we're doing is actually connecting everyone to do business, that's what we're here for.” - Keisha Byrd


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2794 On this episode, we’re joined by a show director who puts together some of the hospitality industry’s most popular events. Please welcome to the show, Brand Leader & Associate Show Director - Boutique Design at Emerald, Keisha Byrd! 

Keisha joins Host Dan Ryan to share what makes a successful event. Keisha highlights the importance of finding the right people, the satisfaction that comes from pulling off a successful event, and the ways students can get the most out of events. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating welcoming experiences, bringing people together, and making everyone feel like they belong. It is important to prioritize these aspects in order to foster a sense of unity and promote meaningful connections.
  • When it comes to putting together an amazing event, the right people make it a success. Your attendees are likely to forget the food and beverages that were served, but they will remember the conversations had and connections made. 
  • Putting on an event is a lot of work, but the feedback and positive messages make it all worth it. Hearing feedback from attendees not only makes you feel appreciated, but also helps shape future events. 
  • When vendors ask for a better space or more square footage, those are both signs of an event well done. Additional signs of success include the feedback from attendees who have found your event to be a useful resource. 
  • As events grow and evolve, there is an increased focus on highlighting specific designs. Future events will still feature a traditional expo hall, but will start to incorporate open houses that highlight both specific designs and their designers.  
  • Setting goals, being patient, and staying true to yourself are key factors in achieving personal growth and success. It is crucial to persevere and remain dedicated to your journey, as progress takes time and self-belief.
  • Listening and being patient with others, while embracing creativity and continuous learning, are valuable skills for events. These help to improve event experiences and foster constructive growth.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Knowing that what we're doing is actually connecting everyone to do business, that's what we're here for.” - Keisha Byrd


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Creating Environments Of Success - Alicia Cannon - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 128 128 128 Creating Environments Of Success - Alicia Cannon - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 128 full 2ef763eb-8345-451c-bf55-cc7ee812cf5a https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd796640 When it comes to finding the right workplace, the environment matters much more than the work. This week, we’re joined by a designer who understands firsthand the value of creating welcoming environments in both her workplaces and designs. Our guest this week is Lead Designer, Principal, and Founder of AJC Design, Alicia Cannon!


Alicia joins Dan Ryan for a conversation on what being an entrepreneur in the hospitality industry is like. Alicia shares her tips for finding the right environment, what makes starting your own brand worth it, and the best ways to train new members.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a blank canvas, allowing you to create intentional experiences for guests, providing idyllic escapes and reassuring comforts away from home. It is a gift that brings passion and fulfillment, making it a significant aspect of the industry.
  • As a creative, it’s important to understand the environments you do and don’t want to be part of. While a certain company may offer great work opportunities, a misalignment of culture will ultimately be more detrimental to you. 
  • While going out on your own can be daunting, it opens the door to creative growth. With freedom to travel, you open your eyes to new styles and designs. By observing the work of others, you become a better designer for your clients. 
  • When training junior designers, it is important to guide them through the fundamentals of interior design, such as writing specifications and understanding the language of the field. 
  • When seeking internships, explore opportunities at different-sized firms to find a culture and environment that aligns with your goals. It's crucial to prioritize understanding the people you want to work with.
  • Establishing a strong brand identity and prioritizing long-term relationships with clients are crucial for success as a business owner. Creating a family-oriented environment and fostering lasting connections can lead to significant growth and loyalty.
  • It is crucial for new business owners to anticipate upcoming projects and maintain a steady stream of clients. Planning and preparation are key to ensure a consistent flow of work and avoid potential financial challenges.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If something doesn't feel good, It's probably not right.” - Alicia Cannon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> When it comes to finding the right workplace, the environment matters much more than the work. This week, we’re joined by a designer who understands firsthand the value of creating welcoming environments in both her workplaces and designs. Our guest this week is Lead Designer, Principal, and Founder of AJC Design, Alicia Cannon!


Alicia joins Dan Ryan for a conversation on what being an entrepreneur in the hospitality industry is like. Alicia shares her tips for finding the right environment, what makes starting your own brand worth it, and the best ways to train new members.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a blank canvas, allowing you to create intentional experiences for guests, providing idyllic escapes and reassuring comforts away from home. It is a gift that brings passion and fulfillment, making it a significant aspect of the industry.
  • As a creative, it’s important to understand the environments you do and don’t want to be part of. While a certain company may offer great work opportunities, a misalignment of culture will ultimately be more detrimental to you. 
  • While going out on your own can be daunting, it opens the door to creative growth. With freedom to travel, you open your eyes to new styles and designs. By observing the work of others, you become a better designer for your clients. 
  • When training junior designers, it is important to guide them through the fundamentals of interior design, such as writing specifications and understanding the language of the field. 
  • When seeking internships, explore opportunities at different-sized firms to find a culture and environment that aligns with your goals. It's crucial to prioritize understanding the people you want to work with.
  • Establishing a strong brand identity and prioritizing long-term relationships with clients are crucial for success as a business owner. Creating a family-oriented environment and fostering lasting connections can lead to significant growth and loyalty.
  • It is crucial for new business owners to anticipate upcoming projects and maintain a steady stream of clients. Planning and preparation are key to ensure a consistent flow of work and avoid potential financial challenges.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If something doesn't feel good, It's probably not right.” - Alicia Cannon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2694 When it comes to finding the right workplace, the environment matters much more than the work. This week, we’re joined by a designer who understands firsthand the value of creating welcoming environments in both her workplaces and designs. Our guest this week is Lead Designer, Principal, and Founder of AJC Design, Alicia Cannon!


Alicia joins Dan Ryan for a conversation on what being an entrepreneur in the hospitality industry is like. Alicia shares her tips for finding the right environment, what makes starting your own brand worth it, and the best ways to train new members.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a blank canvas, allowing you to create intentional experiences for guests, providing idyllic escapes and reassuring comforts away from home. It is a gift that brings passion and fulfillment, making it a significant aspect of the industry.
  • As a creative, it’s important to understand the environments you do and don’t want to be part of. While a certain company may offer great work opportunities, a misalignment of culture will ultimately be more detrimental to you. 
  • While going out on your own can be daunting, it opens the door to creative growth. With freedom to travel, you open your eyes to new styles and designs. By observing the work of others, you become a better designer for your clients. 
  • When training junior designers, it is important to guide them through the fundamentals of interior design, such as writing specifications and understanding the language of the field. 
  • When seeking internships, explore opportunities at different-sized firms to find a culture and environment that aligns with your goals. It's crucial to prioritize understanding the people you want to work with.
  • Establishing a strong brand identity and prioritizing long-term relationships with clients are crucial for success as a business owner. Creating a family-oriented environment and fostering lasting connections can lead to significant growth and loyalty.
  • It is crucial for new business owners to anticipate upcoming projects and maintain a steady stream of clients. Planning and preparation are key to ensure a consistent flow of work and avoid potential financial challenges.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If something doesn't feel good, It's probably not right.” - Alicia Cannon

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Having Fun Learning From Your Mistakes - Alisa Chodos - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 127 127 127 Having Fun Learning From Your Mistakes - Alisa Chodos - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 127 full fe4c570f-3c18-434f-b8ba-fcaefe70fc09 https://share.transistor.fm/s/87b1913a Our guest this week is a highly creative and service oriented design leader who loves learning from others. She’s a trailblazer who worked to carve out a space in the industry to truly be herself. Joining the show this week is Managing Principal at KNA Design Los Angeles, Alisa Chodos!


Alisa sits down with Dan Ryan for a discussion on her hospitality journey. She dives into the importance of learning from others, why it’s ok to make mistakes, and the warmth of the hospitality community. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the business of service, and design is theater. Hospitality is the backdrop through which people create connections and experiences. To properly execute requires a blend of design and management. 
  • In the ever-evolving world of design consulting, learning goes beyond the classroom. It's about gaining firsthand experience, adapting to different environments, and embracing teamwork as the cornerstone of success.
  • While the hospitality industry has come a long way, it has faced many diversity issues. When Alisa first started, not many women were involved in the design process. She continued to push on, and refused to conform.
  • It is important to learn from mistakes, have fun, and collaborate with others to spur creativity. Embracing new perspectives and exploring unconventional ideas can lead to better solutions and promote camaraderie and teamwork.
  • Working with a diverse group of people can provide new perspectives and inspiration. Emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural and historical references in design projects can lead to cohesive and relevant outcomes.
  • Designers should prioritize maintaining a positive and enthusiastic mindset towards their work to cultivate motivation and creativity. Embracing feelings of exuberance and discovery can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
  • The hospitality industry thrives on strong relationships and collaboration. The support, generosity, and professionalism of its people make it a fortunate and rewarding field to be a part of.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I feel like I'm not really learning unless I'm challenged and a little bit scared.” - Alisa Chodos

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a highly creative and service oriented design leader who loves learning from others. She’s a trailblazer who worked to carve out a space in the industry to truly be herself. Joining the show this week is Managing Principal at KNA Design Los Angeles, Alisa Chodos!


Alisa sits down with Dan Ryan for a discussion on her hospitality journey. She dives into the importance of learning from others, why it’s ok to make mistakes, and the warmth of the hospitality community. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the business of service, and design is theater. Hospitality is the backdrop through which people create connections and experiences. To properly execute requires a blend of design and management. 
  • In the ever-evolving world of design consulting, learning goes beyond the classroom. It's about gaining firsthand experience, adapting to different environments, and embracing teamwork as the cornerstone of success.
  • While the hospitality industry has come a long way, it has faced many diversity issues. When Alisa first started, not many women were involved in the design process. She continued to push on, and refused to conform.
  • It is important to learn from mistakes, have fun, and collaborate with others to spur creativity. Embracing new perspectives and exploring unconventional ideas can lead to better solutions and promote camaraderie and teamwork.
  • Working with a diverse group of people can provide new perspectives and inspiration. Emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural and historical references in design projects can lead to cohesive and relevant outcomes.
  • Designers should prioritize maintaining a positive and enthusiastic mindset towards their work to cultivate motivation and creativity. Embracing feelings of exuberance and discovery can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
  • The hospitality industry thrives on strong relationships and collaboration. The support, generosity, and professionalism of its people make it a fortunate and rewarding field to be a part of.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I feel like I'm not really learning unless I'm challenged and a little bit scared.” - Alisa Chodos

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2909 Our guest this week is a highly creative and service oriented design leader who loves learning from others. She’s a trailblazer who worked to carve out a space in the industry to truly be herself. Joining the show this week is Managing Principal at KNA Design Los Angeles, Alisa Chodos!


Alisa sits down with Dan Ryan for a discussion on her hospitality journey. She dives into the importance of learning from others, why it’s ok to make mistakes, and the warmth of the hospitality community. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the business of service, and design is theater. Hospitality is the backdrop through which people create connections and experiences. To properly execute requires a blend of design and management. 
  • In the ever-evolving world of design consulting, learning goes beyond the classroom. It's about gaining firsthand experience, adapting to different environments, and embracing teamwork as the cornerstone of success.
  • While the hospitality industry has come a long way, it has faced many diversity issues. When Alisa first started, not many women were involved in the design process. She continued to push on, and refused to conform.
  • It is important to learn from mistakes, have fun, and collaborate with others to spur creativity. Embracing new perspectives and exploring unconventional ideas can lead to better solutions and promote camaraderie and teamwork.
  • Working with a diverse group of people can provide new perspectives and inspiration. Emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural and historical references in design projects can lead to cohesive and relevant outcomes.
  • Designers should prioritize maintaining a positive and enthusiastic mindset towards their work to cultivate motivation and creativity. Embracing feelings of exuberance and discovery can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
  • The hospitality industry thrives on strong relationships and collaboration. The support, generosity, and professionalism of its people make it a fortunate and rewarding field to be a part of.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I feel like I'm not really learning unless I'm challenged and a little bit scared.” - Alisa Chodos

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan With The Right Canvas You Can Build Anything - Ethan Orley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 126 126 126 With The Right Canvas You Can Build Anything - Ethan Orley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 126 full e80a0773-a264-42fd-b0ea-3bc9c19757a8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dfebc9a7 Our guest this week is an accomplished hospitality leader with around 15 years of experience. He believes that both old and new properties alike can be transformed into engaging and thoughtful spaces. Please welcome Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Oliver Hospitality, Ethan Orley!


Ethan joins Host Dan Ryan for a discussion on the challenges of creating #1 ranking hotels from the right canvas. Ethan shares tips for successful business partnerships, the importance of multiple guest activities, and how building characters for your narrative creates immersive guest experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a creative canvas to provide exceptional products and services, exceeding guests' expectations with unique experiences in both hotels and restaurants. It offers the opportunity to reimagine spaces and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Investors are primarily driven by financial returns, emphasizing the significance of structuring projects correctly. In addition, the challenge of pursuing unique and innovative ventures sets a pathway for success in a market that demands differentiation.
  • Starting a new business venture can be daunting, taking the leap and starting small is a lower risk option. Starting with a feasible amount to manage lets you closely control operations, and work in refinements without becoming overwhelmed.  
  • A successful partnership thrives on trust, honesty, and shared goals, while requiring continuous effort and hard work. Collaboration and complementary skills contribute to the growth and success of the partnership.
  • Maintaining a strong focus on beverage sales is crucial for restaurants and hotels, as it offers higher profit margins compared to food sales. By strategically entertaining guests and creating multi-dimensional experiences, businesses can maximize their revenue potential.
  • While many brands focus on their design guidelines, they should instead focus on how a character would interact with the narrative they are creating. By designing around the actions of the character, you create an experience that naturally immerses guests. 
  • When renovating a hotel, the only thing you can control is your entry point. While operation costs and renovations can easily run more than expected, the cost to purchase stays fixed. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a good sign when they take all the collateral, it means you've done something well, and it's the price of being memorable.” - Ethan Orley

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is an accomplished hospitality leader with around 15 years of experience. He believes that both old and new properties alike can be transformed into engaging and thoughtful spaces. Please welcome Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Oliver Hospitality, Ethan Orley!


Ethan joins Host Dan Ryan for a discussion on the challenges of creating #1 ranking hotels from the right canvas. Ethan shares tips for successful business partnerships, the importance of multiple guest activities, and how building characters for your narrative creates immersive guest experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a creative canvas to provide exceptional products and services, exceeding guests' expectations with unique experiences in both hotels and restaurants. It offers the opportunity to reimagine spaces and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Investors are primarily driven by financial returns, emphasizing the significance of structuring projects correctly. In addition, the challenge of pursuing unique and innovative ventures sets a pathway for success in a market that demands differentiation.
  • Starting a new business venture can be daunting, taking the leap and starting small is a lower risk option. Starting with a feasible amount to manage lets you closely control operations, and work in refinements without becoming overwhelmed.  
  • A successful partnership thrives on trust, honesty, and shared goals, while requiring continuous effort and hard work. Collaboration and complementary skills contribute to the growth and success of the partnership.
  • Maintaining a strong focus on beverage sales is crucial for restaurants and hotels, as it offers higher profit margins compared to food sales. By strategically entertaining guests and creating multi-dimensional experiences, businesses can maximize their revenue potential.
  • While many brands focus on their design guidelines, they should instead focus on how a character would interact with the narrative they are creating. By designing around the actions of the character, you create an experience that naturally immerses guests. 
  • When renovating a hotel, the only thing you can control is your entry point. While operation costs and renovations can easily run more than expected, the cost to purchase stays fixed. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a good sign when they take all the collateral, it means you've done something well, and it's the price of being memorable.” - Ethan Orley

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3587 Our guest this week is an accomplished hospitality leader with around 15 years of experience. He believes that both old and new properties alike can be transformed into engaging and thoughtful spaces. Please welcome Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Oliver Hospitality, Ethan Orley!


Ethan joins Host Dan Ryan for a discussion on the challenges of creating #1 ranking hotels from the right canvas. Ethan shares tips for successful business partnerships, the importance of multiple guest activities, and how building characters for your narrative creates immersive guest experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a creative canvas to provide exceptional products and services, exceeding guests' expectations with unique experiences in both hotels and restaurants. It offers the opportunity to reimagine spaces and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
  • Investors are primarily driven by financial returns, emphasizing the significance of structuring projects correctly. In addition, the challenge of pursuing unique and innovative ventures sets a pathway for success in a market that demands differentiation.
  • Starting a new business venture can be daunting, taking the leap and starting small is a lower risk option. Starting with a feasible amount to manage lets you closely control operations, and work in refinements without becoming overwhelmed.  
  • A successful partnership thrives on trust, honesty, and shared goals, while requiring continuous effort and hard work. Collaboration and complementary skills contribute to the growth and success of the partnership.
  • Maintaining a strong focus on beverage sales is crucial for restaurants and hotels, as it offers higher profit margins compared to food sales. By strategically entertaining guests and creating multi-dimensional experiences, businesses can maximize their revenue potential.
  • While many brands focus on their design guidelines, they should instead focus on how a character would interact with the narrative they are creating. By designing around the actions of the character, you create an experience that naturally immerses guests. 
  • When renovating a hotel, the only thing you can control is your entry point. While operation costs and renovations can easily run more than expected, the cost to purchase stays fixed. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “It's a good sign when they take all the collateral, it means you've done something well, and it's the price of being memorable.” - Ethan Orley

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Finding Your Why - Henri Munyengango - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 125 125 125 Finding Your Why - Henri Munyengango - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 125 full 7eca0361-866d-42e7-a5b7-bd2e35071225 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7f800c17 Through the hospitality of others, we are enabled to share those feelings of welcoming and acceptance in future interactions. Today’s guest is someone who’s work in hospitality is influenced by the support of those around him. Our guest this week is an experienced designer with a well rounded international background. Joining the show is Regional Director of Design Strategies for IHG, Henri Munyengango!


Henri shares the mic with Host Dan Ryan for a thoughtful conversation on the impacts we leave on each other’s lives. Henri shares the ways he is helping the next generation of designers, the necessity of collaboration, and the importance of understanding client’s motivations. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating a space where people feel expected and embraced. Instilling a sense of hospitality is focused on creating environments that welcome guests and help them create memories. 
  • For Henri, his journey into hospitality was powered by the support of his community around him. Through the support of the family he spent time with in America, Henri was encouraged to pursue his dream of design. 
  • Hearing a client doesn’t like a concept you’ve developed can sting, but it’s important to understand their motives. At the end of the day, your client is running a business, and the pushback originates from their need to ensure they are making a sound investment. 
  • One of the most exciting parts of working with brands is getting to truly pair with them to tell their story. Every touch point from check in to the room needs to distill a brand’s aspirations into a concrete physical form. 
  • Understanding and embracing cultural differences, especially in hospitality, is crucial for building acceptance and fostering curiosity. Being acknowledged and inquiring about someone's background promotes the ultimate acceptance anyone seeks.
  • Seeking advice and leveraging the perspectives of others can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and mindset shifts, emphasizing the power of collaboration and multiple perspectives in problem-solving.
  • Being a mentor brings fulfillment and allows for sharing experiences and knowledge. It provides an opportunity to guide and support individuals, whether they are team members or students, and make a positive impact in their lives.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I thank those individuals who invested in me to allow me to be at a place here in my life where I can give back.” - Henri Munyengango

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Through the hospitality of others, we are enabled to share those feelings of welcoming and acceptance in future interactions. Today’s guest is someone who’s work in hospitality is influenced by the support of those around him. Our guest this week is an experienced designer with a well rounded international background. Joining the show is Regional Director of Design Strategies for IHG, Henri Munyengango!


Henri shares the mic with Host Dan Ryan for a thoughtful conversation on the impacts we leave on each other’s lives. Henri shares the ways he is helping the next generation of designers, the necessity of collaboration, and the importance of understanding client’s motivations. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating a space where people feel expected and embraced. Instilling a sense of hospitality is focused on creating environments that welcome guests and help them create memories. 
  • For Henri, his journey into hospitality was powered by the support of his community around him. Through the support of the family he spent time with in America, Henri was encouraged to pursue his dream of design. 
  • Hearing a client doesn’t like a concept you’ve developed can sting, but it’s important to understand their motives. At the end of the day, your client is running a business, and the pushback originates from their need to ensure they are making a sound investment. 
  • One of the most exciting parts of working with brands is getting to truly pair with them to tell their story. Every touch point from check in to the room needs to distill a brand’s aspirations into a concrete physical form. 
  • Understanding and embracing cultural differences, especially in hospitality, is crucial for building acceptance and fostering curiosity. Being acknowledged and inquiring about someone's background promotes the ultimate acceptance anyone seeks.
  • Seeking advice and leveraging the perspectives of others can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and mindset shifts, emphasizing the power of collaboration and multiple perspectives in problem-solving.
  • Being a mentor brings fulfillment and allows for sharing experiences and knowledge. It provides an opportunity to guide and support individuals, whether they are team members or students, and make a positive impact in their lives.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I thank those individuals who invested in me to allow me to be at a place here in my life where I can give back.” - Henri Munyengango

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3303 Through the hospitality of others, we are enabled to share those feelings of welcoming and acceptance in future interactions. Today’s guest is someone who’s work in hospitality is influenced by the support of those around him. Our guest this week is an experienced designer with a well rounded international background. Joining the show is Regional Director of Design Strategies for IHG, Henri Munyengango!


Henri shares the mic with Host Dan Ryan for a thoughtful conversation on the impacts we leave on each other’s lives. Henri shares the ways he is helping the next generation of designers, the necessity of collaboration, and the importance of understanding client’s motivations. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about creating a space where people feel expected and embraced. Instilling a sense of hospitality is focused on creating environments that welcome guests and help them create memories. 
  • For Henri, his journey into hospitality was powered by the support of his community around him. Through the support of the family he spent time with in America, Henri was encouraged to pursue his dream of design. 
  • Hearing a client doesn’t like a concept you’ve developed can sting, but it’s important to understand their motives. At the end of the day, your client is running a business, and the pushback originates from their need to ensure they are making a sound investment. 
  • One of the most exciting parts of working with brands is getting to truly pair with them to tell their story. Every touch point from check in to the room needs to distill a brand’s aspirations into a concrete physical form. 
  • Understanding and embracing cultural differences, especially in hospitality, is crucial for building acceptance and fostering curiosity. Being acknowledged and inquiring about someone's background promotes the ultimate acceptance anyone seeks.
  • Seeking advice and leveraging the perspectives of others can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and mindset shifts, emphasizing the power of collaboration and multiple perspectives in problem-solving.
  • Being a mentor brings fulfillment and allows for sharing experiences and knowledge. It provides an opportunity to guide and support individuals, whether they are team members or students, and make a positive impact in their lives.

Quote of the Show:

  • “I thank those individuals who invested in me to allow me to be at a place here in my life where I can give back.” - Henri Munyengango

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Creating Legions Of Raving Fans - Younes Atallah - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 124 124 124 Creating Legions Of Raving Fans - Younes Atallah - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 124 full 86dd2f6b-1239-4529-89ba-422e1175bb4c https://share.transistor.fm/s/e492d3ea Our guest on this week’s episode is a wealth of knowledge on all facets of the hotel and hospitality industry. He’s a leader who knows how to turn a hotel into something that is truly a destination. Joining the show this week is General Manager at the upcoming Regent Santa Monica Beach, Younes Atallah!


Younes sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss his time in the industry, and the role of the General Manager. Younes shares his management strategies, the importance of exceptional programming, and why collaboration is a crucial skill for any member of your team.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an inherent concept of treating others with warmth and care, extending from our homes to the hotel industry. It comes from the heart and is about treating people as you would treat them in your house. 
  • Continuous improvement is essential in any talent, whether it's sports, music, or acting.In the hospitality industry, teamwork and constant challenge are essential for improving the skills and talents of staff.
  • Relationships and being a skilled generalist are crucial in the dynamic world of hotel management. The ability to manage teams, juggle priorities, and reintroduce brands requires constant dedication and expertise.
  • Providing exceptional programming is crucial for hotels to exceed guest expectations and create memorable experiences. Comfortable accommodations are expected by guests, but it's the added features and activities that truly make a hotel stand out.
  • Regularly engaging with people and observing their behavior by walking around is a valuable management practice. It offers opportunities to understand their desires and motivations, leading to impactful insights and positive outcomes.
  • The pandemic has made it increasingly difficult to find good people and talent, especially in industries like hospitality. Management teams should look to foster internal talent, and help employees grow in ways that excites them.
  • Growing up in a family that owned a travel agency, Younes experienced hospitality from an early age. The experience led to a deep connection with the hotel industry and a career pathway shaped by a memorable vacation.

Quote of the Show:

  • “There's very, very few, if any, positions in a hotel where individual contributors actually exist.” - Younes Atallah

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest on this week’s episode is a wealth of knowledge on all facets of the hotel and hospitality industry. He’s a leader who knows how to turn a hotel into something that is truly a destination. Joining the show this week is General Manager at the upcoming Regent Santa Monica Beach, Younes Atallah!


Younes sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss his time in the industry, and the role of the General Manager. Younes shares his management strategies, the importance of exceptional programming, and why collaboration is a crucial skill for any member of your team.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an inherent concept of treating others with warmth and care, extending from our homes to the hotel industry. It comes from the heart and is about treating people as you would treat them in your house. 
  • Continuous improvement is essential in any talent, whether it's sports, music, or acting.In the hospitality industry, teamwork and constant challenge are essential for improving the skills and talents of staff.
  • Relationships and being a skilled generalist are crucial in the dynamic world of hotel management. The ability to manage teams, juggle priorities, and reintroduce brands requires constant dedication and expertise.
  • Providing exceptional programming is crucial for hotels to exceed guest expectations and create memorable experiences. Comfortable accommodations are expected by guests, but it's the added features and activities that truly make a hotel stand out.
  • Regularly engaging with people and observing their behavior by walking around is a valuable management practice. It offers opportunities to understand their desires and motivations, leading to impactful insights and positive outcomes.
  • The pandemic has made it increasingly difficult to find good people and talent, especially in industries like hospitality. Management teams should look to foster internal talent, and help employees grow in ways that excites them.
  • Growing up in a family that owned a travel agency, Younes experienced hospitality from an early age. The experience led to a deep connection with the hotel industry and a career pathway shaped by a memorable vacation.

Quote of the Show:

  • “There's very, very few, if any, positions in a hotel where individual contributors actually exist.” - Younes Atallah

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3373 Our guest on this week’s episode is a wealth of knowledge on all facets of the hotel and hospitality industry. He’s a leader who knows how to turn a hotel into something that is truly a destination. Joining the show this week is General Manager at the upcoming Regent Santa Monica Beach, Younes Atallah!


Younes sits down with Dan Ryan to discuss his time in the industry, and the role of the General Manager. Younes shares his management strategies, the importance of exceptional programming, and why collaboration is a crucial skill for any member of your team.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an inherent concept of treating others with warmth and care, extending from our homes to the hotel industry. It comes from the heart and is about treating people as you would treat them in your house. 
  • Continuous improvement is essential in any talent, whether it's sports, music, or acting.In the hospitality industry, teamwork and constant challenge are essential for improving the skills and talents of staff.
  • Relationships and being a skilled generalist are crucial in the dynamic world of hotel management. The ability to manage teams, juggle priorities, and reintroduce brands requires constant dedication and expertise.
  • Providing exceptional programming is crucial for hotels to exceed guest expectations and create memorable experiences. Comfortable accommodations are expected by guests, but it's the added features and activities that truly make a hotel stand out.
  • Regularly engaging with people and observing their behavior by walking around is a valuable management practice. It offers opportunities to understand their desires and motivations, leading to impactful insights and positive outcomes.
  • The pandemic has made it increasingly difficult to find good people and talent, especially in industries like hospitality. Management teams should look to foster internal talent, and help employees grow in ways that excites them.
  • Growing up in a family that owned a travel agency, Younes experienced hospitality from an early age. The experience led to a deep connection with the hotel industry and a career pathway shaped by a memorable vacation.

Quote of the Show:

  • “There's very, very few, if any, positions in a hotel where individual contributors actually exist.” - Younes Atallah

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Many Layers Of Hospitality - Jacqueline Nunley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 123 123 123 The Many Layers Of Hospitality - Jacqueline Nunley - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 123 full d3d53df9-ebaf-482d-b3a6-c8403679978c https://share.transistor.fm/s/1701f87d In the rapidly changing world of tech, the hospitality industry can struggle to keep up. Today’s guest is here to provide some guidance. Drawing on her 20 plus years of technology experience, she creates innovative experiences for guests and travelers. Joining the show this week is The Travel and Hospitality Industry Advisor at Salesforce, Jacqueline Nunley!


Jacqui joins host Dan Ryan to look towards the future of the hospitality industry. They discuss the common challenges facing hoteliers when implementing technology, the ways AI can revolutionize customer experience, and how brands need to think about implementing AI. 



Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an ever changing landscape. As guest expectations have changed, technology has advanced rapidly, creating a blank slate. This allows for the industry to redefine what hospitality means to them. 
  • Because the hospitality industry is often fragmented, implementing new technologies can be a challenge. When looking for new solutions, leadership should prioritize technologies that can work cross-functionally.
  • The level of repeatability and consistency in an experience needs to be tailored to the type of experience. Knowing what to expect can provide comfort to guests, but many guests often seek the unique experiences of the locations they visit. 
  • When looking to implement tech into a hotel, the end goal should be on making the staff’s jobs easier. By freeing up staff from mundane tasks that can easily be replaced, you allow them more time to focus on providing the human element to guests. 
  • AI offers many benefits to the end customer, but it requires careful consideration of a guest’s concerns. With many guests, there is a concern about the privacy of their data. Hotels need to provide a sense of security to ensure that guests trust the technology. 
  • Implementing AI into the hospitality industry is not about replacing people’s jobs, but rather about allowing them to better serve guests. Conversational AI can speed up support calls, drastically reducing customer frustrations.
  • While AI has the potential to redefine the hospitality industry, it’s adoption needs to be intentional. Instead of adding AI features because a competitor had, first assess if the use of that technology will add value to your customers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “How are you engaging with your customers at the speed at which your customers are evolving?” - Jacqueline Nunley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In the rapidly changing world of tech, the hospitality industry can struggle to keep up. Today’s guest is here to provide some guidance. Drawing on her 20 plus years of technology experience, she creates innovative experiences for guests and travelers. Joining the show this week is The Travel and Hospitality Industry Advisor at Salesforce, Jacqueline Nunley!


Jacqui joins host Dan Ryan to look towards the future of the hospitality industry. They discuss the common challenges facing hoteliers when implementing technology, the ways AI can revolutionize customer experience, and how brands need to think about implementing AI. 



Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an ever changing landscape. As guest expectations have changed, technology has advanced rapidly, creating a blank slate. This allows for the industry to redefine what hospitality means to them. 
  • Because the hospitality industry is often fragmented, implementing new technologies can be a challenge. When looking for new solutions, leadership should prioritize technologies that can work cross-functionally.
  • The level of repeatability and consistency in an experience needs to be tailored to the type of experience. Knowing what to expect can provide comfort to guests, but many guests often seek the unique experiences of the locations they visit. 
  • When looking to implement tech into a hotel, the end goal should be on making the staff’s jobs easier. By freeing up staff from mundane tasks that can easily be replaced, you allow them more time to focus on providing the human element to guests. 
  • AI offers many benefits to the end customer, but it requires careful consideration of a guest’s concerns. With many guests, there is a concern about the privacy of their data. Hotels need to provide a sense of security to ensure that guests trust the technology. 
  • Implementing AI into the hospitality industry is not about replacing people’s jobs, but rather about allowing them to better serve guests. Conversational AI can speed up support calls, drastically reducing customer frustrations.
  • While AI has the potential to redefine the hospitality industry, it’s adoption needs to be intentional. Instead of adding AI features because a competitor had, first assess if the use of that technology will add value to your customers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “How are you engaging with your customers at the speed at which your customers are evolving?” - Jacqueline Nunley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3955 In the rapidly changing world of tech, the hospitality industry can struggle to keep up. Today’s guest is here to provide some guidance. Drawing on her 20 plus years of technology experience, she creates innovative experiences for guests and travelers. Joining the show this week is The Travel and Hospitality Industry Advisor at Salesforce, Jacqueline Nunley!


Jacqui joins host Dan Ryan to look towards the future of the hospitality industry. They discuss the common challenges facing hoteliers when implementing technology, the ways AI can revolutionize customer experience, and how brands need to think about implementing AI. 



Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is an ever changing landscape. As guest expectations have changed, technology has advanced rapidly, creating a blank slate. This allows for the industry to redefine what hospitality means to them. 
  • Because the hospitality industry is often fragmented, implementing new technologies can be a challenge. When looking for new solutions, leadership should prioritize technologies that can work cross-functionally.
  • The level of repeatability and consistency in an experience needs to be tailored to the type of experience. Knowing what to expect can provide comfort to guests, but many guests often seek the unique experiences of the locations they visit. 
  • When looking to implement tech into a hotel, the end goal should be on making the staff’s jobs easier. By freeing up staff from mundane tasks that can easily be replaced, you allow them more time to focus on providing the human element to guests. 
  • AI offers many benefits to the end customer, but it requires careful consideration of a guest’s concerns. With many guests, there is a concern about the privacy of their data. Hotels need to provide a sense of security to ensure that guests trust the technology. 
  • Implementing AI into the hospitality industry is not about replacing people’s jobs, but rather about allowing them to better serve guests. Conversational AI can speed up support calls, drastically reducing customer frustrations.
  • While AI has the potential to redefine the hospitality industry, it’s adoption needs to be intentional. Instead of adding AI features because a competitor had, first assess if the use of that technology will add value to your customers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “How are you engaging with your customers at the speed at which your customers are evolving?” - Jacqueline Nunley

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Igniting Curiosity And Expanding Worlds - Linda Laucirica - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 122 122 122 Igniting Curiosity And Expanding Worlds - Linda Laucirica - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 122 full e1989a03-1560-4e7b-a720-db2f748dd2d9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4feb28ca Our guest this week is a talented designer who is redefining the world of hospitality design. With over 25 years of experience, she has lent her expertise as an Adjunct professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Please welcome to the show Senior Director, Design & Project Management at Marriott International, Linda Laucirica!


Linda joins Host Dan Ryan for an in depth conversation on design philosophy. Linda shares the importance of starting with a cohesive design strategy before creating a narrative, the necessity of having an elevator pitch, and how the hospitality industry can create more welcoming spaces in the healthcare industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the desire to give comfort and joy. True hospitality comes from a celebration of shared human experience, and a desire to connect through that humanity with others
  • The intersection of storytelling and design, with an emphasis on editing and conveying clear messages, is crucial in creating impactful narratives. This is important in full-service lifestyle brands, where aspirational design plays a key role in brand identity.
  • When conducting research and designing for a brand, it is essential to effectively summarize the concept in a concise elevator pitch. This helps align design decisions with the brand's vision and ensures unique project outcomes.
  • Creating successful narratives for "soft brands" requires a different approach than for "hard brands". Designers must create a strategy that directly connects with the brand's vision, ethos, and personality, before jumping into crafting a compelling narrative.
  • Technology has impacted the design process, shifting from manual creation to digital tools and 3D visualization. This transformation emphasizes the need for designers to adapt, understand scale, and create spaces that resonate with our human experience.
  • Hospitality focused design has an important role in the healthcare industry. By creating welcoming hospitals and treatment centers, you can leave a positive impact on someone’s journey to healing. 
  • For Mariott’s W Hotels there are three tenets of design: form follows fantastic, tactile materiality, and clean maximalism. These three elements combine to create unique experiences for guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That message also wants to have an emotional connection to who you're speaking with, right? Otherwise why write the story? Why share your thoughts?” - Linda Laucirica

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is a talented designer who is redefining the world of hospitality design. With over 25 years of experience, she has lent her expertise as an Adjunct professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Please welcome to the show Senior Director, Design & Project Management at Marriott International, Linda Laucirica!


Linda joins Host Dan Ryan for an in depth conversation on design philosophy. Linda shares the importance of starting with a cohesive design strategy before creating a narrative, the necessity of having an elevator pitch, and how the hospitality industry can create more welcoming spaces in the healthcare industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the desire to give comfort and joy. True hospitality comes from a celebration of shared human experience, and a desire to connect through that humanity with others
  • The intersection of storytelling and design, with an emphasis on editing and conveying clear messages, is crucial in creating impactful narratives. This is important in full-service lifestyle brands, where aspirational design plays a key role in brand identity.
  • When conducting research and designing for a brand, it is essential to effectively summarize the concept in a concise elevator pitch. This helps align design decisions with the brand's vision and ensures unique project outcomes.
  • Creating successful narratives for "soft brands" requires a different approach than for "hard brands". Designers must create a strategy that directly connects with the brand's vision, ethos, and personality, before jumping into crafting a compelling narrative.
  • Technology has impacted the design process, shifting from manual creation to digital tools and 3D visualization. This transformation emphasizes the need for designers to adapt, understand scale, and create spaces that resonate with our human experience.
  • Hospitality focused design has an important role in the healthcare industry. By creating welcoming hospitals and treatment centers, you can leave a positive impact on someone’s journey to healing. 
  • For Mariott’s W Hotels there are three tenets of design: form follows fantastic, tactile materiality, and clean maximalism. These three elements combine to create unique experiences for guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That message also wants to have an emotional connection to who you're speaking with, right? Otherwise why write the story? Why share your thoughts?” - Linda Laucirica

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3730 Our guest this week is a talented designer who is redefining the world of hospitality design. With over 25 years of experience, she has lent her expertise as an Adjunct professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Please welcome to the show Senior Director, Design & Project Management at Marriott International, Linda Laucirica!


Linda joins Host Dan Ryan for an in depth conversation on design philosophy. Linda shares the importance of starting with a cohesive design strategy before creating a narrative, the necessity of having an elevator pitch, and how the hospitality industry can create more welcoming spaces in the healthcare industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the desire to give comfort and joy. True hospitality comes from a celebration of shared human experience, and a desire to connect through that humanity with others
  • The intersection of storytelling and design, with an emphasis on editing and conveying clear messages, is crucial in creating impactful narratives. This is important in full-service lifestyle brands, where aspirational design plays a key role in brand identity.
  • When conducting research and designing for a brand, it is essential to effectively summarize the concept in a concise elevator pitch. This helps align design decisions with the brand's vision and ensures unique project outcomes.
  • Creating successful narratives for "soft brands" requires a different approach than for "hard brands". Designers must create a strategy that directly connects with the brand's vision, ethos, and personality, before jumping into crafting a compelling narrative.
  • Technology has impacted the design process, shifting from manual creation to digital tools and 3D visualization. This transformation emphasizes the need for designers to adapt, understand scale, and create spaces that resonate with our human experience.
  • Hospitality focused design has an important role in the healthcare industry. By creating welcoming hospitals and treatment centers, you can leave a positive impact on someone’s journey to healing. 
  • For Mariott’s W Hotels there are three tenets of design: form follows fantastic, tactile materiality, and clean maximalism. These three elements combine to create unique experiences for guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That message also wants to have an emotional connection to who you're speaking with, right? Otherwise why write the story? Why share your thoughts?” - Linda Laucirica

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Importance Of Authenticity - Gene Gebolys - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 121 121 121 The Importance Of Authenticity - Gene Gebolys - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 121 full 1aa4028b-d544-4c07-9993-3140566ac5de https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a2cccc9 Our guest on this week’s episode is someone who over the past 25 years has played a pivotal role in the development and adoption of biofuels. He’s a forward thinking leader who is committed to creating a better world. Joining Dan Ryan is President and CEO at World Energy, Gene Gebolys!

Gene highlights the importance of achieving net zero, the value of being authentic, and the technology behind biofuels. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about welcoming others into your space and putting them at ease. In the context of sustainability, it is crucial to focus on decarbonizing sectors like aviation and help people travel with a lower carbon impact, aligning their actions with their values.
  • Net zero is a critical concept in combating climate change, where the goal is to remove as much carbon as is emitted. Though offsets exist to absorb emitted carbon, their effectiveness and quality vary, calling for careful consideration in their implementation.
  • Offsets have been widely abused, leading to a lack of confidence in them. However, the use of insets, which displace carbon emissions in the same sector, provides a high-quality alternative to offsets that can effectively reduce a sector's carbon footprint.
  • Displacing fossil fuels with alternative energy sources may seem small in scale compared to the overall demand. However, it is crucial for leading brands to authentically uphold their net zero commitments and inspire other companies to join them.
  • The importance of embracing innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable living, lies in their ability to create a more thoughtful, connected, and sustainable future for all. To move forward, we must embrace a more community focused way of life.
  • Approximately 9% of global carbon emissions are emitted during steel production. To address this, there is a growing need for increased efficiency and thoughtful design to reduce the creation and disposal of preventable waste.
  • By using wind energy to break water into Oxygen and Hydrogen, wind energy can be stored in the form of “green hydrogen”. This allows for a renewable energy source like wind, to be bottled up and transported across the globe. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're a corporate leader today, how can you be a corporate leader on everything but the biggest problem the species faces?” - Gene Gebolys

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest on this week’s episode is someone who over the past 25 years has played a pivotal role in the development and adoption of biofuels. He’s a forward thinking leader who is committed to creating a better world. Joining Dan Ryan is President and CEO at World Energy, Gene Gebolys!

Gene highlights the importance of achieving net zero, the value of being authentic, and the technology behind biofuels. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about welcoming others into your space and putting them at ease. In the context of sustainability, it is crucial to focus on decarbonizing sectors like aviation and help people travel with a lower carbon impact, aligning their actions with their values.
  • Net zero is a critical concept in combating climate change, where the goal is to remove as much carbon as is emitted. Though offsets exist to absorb emitted carbon, their effectiveness and quality vary, calling for careful consideration in their implementation.
  • Offsets have been widely abused, leading to a lack of confidence in them. However, the use of insets, which displace carbon emissions in the same sector, provides a high-quality alternative to offsets that can effectively reduce a sector's carbon footprint.
  • Displacing fossil fuels with alternative energy sources may seem small in scale compared to the overall demand. However, it is crucial for leading brands to authentically uphold their net zero commitments and inspire other companies to join them.
  • The importance of embracing innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable living, lies in their ability to create a more thoughtful, connected, and sustainable future for all. To move forward, we must embrace a more community focused way of life.
  • Approximately 9% of global carbon emissions are emitted during steel production. To address this, there is a growing need for increased efficiency and thoughtful design to reduce the creation and disposal of preventable waste.
  • By using wind energy to break water into Oxygen and Hydrogen, wind energy can be stored in the form of “green hydrogen”. This allows for a renewable energy source like wind, to be bottled up and transported across the globe. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're a corporate leader today, how can you be a corporate leader on everything but the biggest problem the species faces?” - Gene Gebolys

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3552 Our guest on this week’s episode is someone who over the past 25 years has played a pivotal role in the development and adoption of biofuels. He’s a forward thinking leader who is committed to creating a better world. Joining Dan Ryan is President and CEO at World Energy, Gene Gebolys!

Gene highlights the importance of achieving net zero, the value of being authentic, and the technology behind biofuels. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about welcoming others into your space and putting them at ease. In the context of sustainability, it is crucial to focus on decarbonizing sectors like aviation and help people travel with a lower carbon impact, aligning their actions with their values.
  • Net zero is a critical concept in combating climate change, where the goal is to remove as much carbon as is emitted. Though offsets exist to absorb emitted carbon, their effectiveness and quality vary, calling for careful consideration in their implementation.
  • Offsets have been widely abused, leading to a lack of confidence in them. However, the use of insets, which displace carbon emissions in the same sector, provides a high-quality alternative to offsets that can effectively reduce a sector's carbon footprint.
  • Displacing fossil fuels with alternative energy sources may seem small in scale compared to the overall demand. However, it is crucial for leading brands to authentically uphold their net zero commitments and inspire other companies to join them.
  • The importance of embracing innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable living, lies in their ability to create a more thoughtful, connected, and sustainable future for all. To move forward, we must embrace a more community focused way of life.
  • Approximately 9% of global carbon emissions are emitted during steel production. To address this, there is a growing need for increased efficiency and thoughtful design to reduce the creation and disposal of preventable waste.
  • By using wind energy to break water into Oxygen and Hydrogen, wind energy can be stored in the form of “green hydrogen”. This allows for a renewable energy source like wind, to be bottled up and transported across the globe. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're a corporate leader today, how can you be a corporate leader on everything but the biggest problem the species faces?” - Gene Gebolys

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Celebrating 2 Years Of Defining Hospitality - Dan Ryan - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 120 120 120 Celebrating 2 Years Of Defining Hospitality - Dan Ryan - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 120 full e5c6e806-ec58-4492-b613-89720fad1a64 https://share.transistor.fm/s/603b52b1 Defining Hospitality turns two! Over the last two years, we’ve featured some amazing stories, and have learned so much about the hospitality industry. To celebrate, we’ve pulled together some highlights from the most listened to episodes in the past year. In this episode you’ll hear from Author and Activist: Amanda Knox, Founder of Thank You: Will Guidara, Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International: Stephanie Hopkins, and President of The Hardy Group: Brent Hardy.


Thank you for two great years!

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience
  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.

Links:


Connect With Amanda:


Connect With Will:


Connect With Stephanie:


Connect With Brent:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Defining Hospitality turns two! Over the last two years, we’ve featured some amazing stories, and have learned so much about the hospitality industry. To celebrate, we’ve pulled together some highlights from the most listened to episodes in the past year. In this episode you’ll hear from Author and Activist: Amanda Knox, Founder of Thank You: Will Guidara, Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International: Stephanie Hopkins, and President of The Hardy Group: Brent Hardy.


Thank you for two great years!

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience
  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.

Links:


Connect With Amanda:


Connect With Will:


Connect With Stephanie:


Connect With Brent:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1814 Defining Hospitality turns two! Over the last two years, we’ve featured some amazing stories, and have learned so much about the hospitality industry. To celebrate, we’ve pulled together some highlights from the most listened to episodes in the past year. In this episode you’ll hear from Author and Activist: Amanda Knox, Founder of Thank You: Will Guidara, Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International: Stephanie Hopkins, and President of The Hardy Group: Brent Hardy.


Thank you for two great years!

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience
  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.

Links:


Connect With Amanda:


Connect With Will:


Connect With Stephanie:


Connect With Brent:


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Blending Hospitality And Community - Dido Dima - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 119 119 119 Blending Hospitality And Community - Dido Dima - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 119 full 3c85b0d0-a926-4a74-91d4-536558e4ffaf https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0f3995d Hospitality and conservation are united through acts of caring, yet both require a delicate balance between development and preservation. Out in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya exists an experience that blends both into a seamless harmony. Joining the show this week to share his story of hospitality is Dido Dima, a Camp Manager for Kicheche Camps. Dido and Dan sit down together on location in Kenya to discuss the importance, and challenges, of blending hospitality and conservation. Dido shares some of the efforts Kicheche takes to protect the land they operate on, the ways they create a sense of safety in their guests, and why every guest is a blessing. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means extending kindness to others. This extension of kindness continues past your guests, and further onto your staff and community. Without strong staff and a welcoming community, there isn’t much hospitality to extend to guests. 
  • As a hospitality manager, you need to provide varying levels of hospitality. For a guest, that can mean assisting them when they have a luggage issue. For a staff member, that means accommodating their personal needs. 
  • As Kicheche camps are on conservation land, the experiences must be developed around a minimum threshold of sustainability. Low impact footprints, solar power, and a waste management plan are all part of creating responsible recreation. 
  • As a young boy, Dido grew up in a conservation area, which cemented his love for nature. After pursuing education in the field of hospitality, he realized he could blend hospitality and conservation through camps in the bush. 
  • As a leader, change is inevitable. While an employee may start in one area, oftentimes they want to expand and learn more skills. By fostering their growth, you create a highly skilled employee who is engaged in the work they do. 
  • A sense of safety is a requirement for a hospitality provider. When your experience is in a wildlife preserve, your requirements are more stringent. By providing guests who are out of their element with accommodations, you make them feel more welcome.  
  • By pairing the camps with a conservancy, it adds a crucial lifeline for wildlife, and the local communities. Support from the camps helps carve out spaces for wildlife to live, and provides the locals with an additional source of revenue. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to understand the interests of people change and you try to support them in that change.” - Dido Dima

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality and conservation are united through acts of caring, yet both require a delicate balance between development and preservation. Out in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya exists an experience that blends both into a seamless harmony. Joining the show this week to share his story of hospitality is Dido Dima, a Camp Manager for Kicheche Camps. Dido and Dan sit down together on location in Kenya to discuss the importance, and challenges, of blending hospitality and conservation. Dido shares some of the efforts Kicheche takes to protect the land they operate on, the ways they create a sense of safety in their guests, and why every guest is a blessing. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means extending kindness to others. This extension of kindness continues past your guests, and further onto your staff and community. Without strong staff and a welcoming community, there isn’t much hospitality to extend to guests. 
  • As a hospitality manager, you need to provide varying levels of hospitality. For a guest, that can mean assisting them when they have a luggage issue. For a staff member, that means accommodating their personal needs. 
  • As Kicheche camps are on conservation land, the experiences must be developed around a minimum threshold of sustainability. Low impact footprints, solar power, and a waste management plan are all part of creating responsible recreation. 
  • As a young boy, Dido grew up in a conservation area, which cemented his love for nature. After pursuing education in the field of hospitality, he realized he could blend hospitality and conservation through camps in the bush. 
  • As a leader, change is inevitable. While an employee may start in one area, oftentimes they want to expand and learn more skills. By fostering their growth, you create a highly skilled employee who is engaged in the work they do. 
  • A sense of safety is a requirement for a hospitality provider. When your experience is in a wildlife preserve, your requirements are more stringent. By providing guests who are out of their element with accommodations, you make them feel more welcome.  
  • By pairing the camps with a conservancy, it adds a crucial lifeline for wildlife, and the local communities. Support from the camps helps carve out spaces for wildlife to live, and provides the locals with an additional source of revenue. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to understand the interests of people change and you try to support them in that change.” - Dido Dima

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1349 Hospitality and conservation are united through acts of caring, yet both require a delicate balance between development and preservation. Out in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya exists an experience that blends both into a seamless harmony. Joining the show this week to share his story of hospitality is Dido Dima, a Camp Manager for Kicheche Camps. Dido and Dan sit down together on location in Kenya to discuss the importance, and challenges, of blending hospitality and conservation. Dido shares some of the efforts Kicheche takes to protect the land they operate on, the ways they create a sense of safety in their guests, and why every guest is a blessing. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means extending kindness to others. This extension of kindness continues past your guests, and further onto your staff and community. Without strong staff and a welcoming community, there isn’t much hospitality to extend to guests. 
  • As a hospitality manager, you need to provide varying levels of hospitality. For a guest, that can mean assisting them when they have a luggage issue. For a staff member, that means accommodating their personal needs. 
  • As Kicheche camps are on conservation land, the experiences must be developed around a minimum threshold of sustainability. Low impact footprints, solar power, and a waste management plan are all part of creating responsible recreation. 
  • As a young boy, Dido grew up in a conservation area, which cemented his love for nature. After pursuing education in the field of hospitality, he realized he could blend hospitality and conservation through camps in the bush. 
  • As a leader, change is inevitable. While an employee may start in one area, oftentimes they want to expand and learn more skills. By fostering their growth, you create a highly skilled employee who is engaged in the work they do. 
  • A sense of safety is a requirement for a hospitality provider. When your experience is in a wildlife preserve, your requirements are more stringent. By providing guests who are out of their element with accommodations, you make them feel more welcome.  
  • By pairing the camps with a conservancy, it adds a crucial lifeline for wildlife, and the local communities. Support from the camps helps carve out spaces for wildlife to live, and provides the locals with an additional source of revenue. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You have to understand the interests of people change and you try to support them in that change.” - Dido Dima

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Aligning Personal and Organizational Goals - Billie Thorne - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 118 118 118 Aligning Personal and Organizational Goals - Billie Thorne - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 118 full 73959ffe-2497-4d16-9576-9e252e3e9b0f https://share.transistor.fm/s/e19fb66c The ideal business is one where the needs of the employees are balanced perfectly with the goals of the business. One key to finding this balance is hospitality among employees. On today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan talks to an expert on working with your employees. Joining the show this week is Principal & Vice President at C+TC Design Studio, Billie Thorne


Billie and Dan Billie sit down to dive into her experiences as a leader in the world of hospitality. Billie shares ways to best work with your employees, how to be hospitable to your coworkers, and the importance of carving out time for self care. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about kindness and finding where you are comfortable. Once you get settled in a good place, you can extend your hand to newer employees and help them learn and grow. 
  • Building a team of professionals requires different forms of guidance and understanding. Some people need to be prompted to think about their goals and aspirations and others need a small push to a healthy space outside their comfort zone.
  • Finding the right employees doesn’t only mean looking at a resume, rather, it involves feedback from members of the team. Team members who enjoy each other’s presence and can cooperate smoothly will be more willing to work together in person. 
  • Individual employee goals have to work in coordination with functional business. There has to be a balance between allowing people to focus on personal goals and working to maintain the profit and productivity of the business.
  • Work smarter not longer. Though long hours can be sometimes helpful for productivity, more often, you can achieve more on a regular day rather than working late, because as you reach the end of the day, fatigue slows your efficiency.
  • It is important to be hospitable to both clients and coworkers, but often, hospitality toward coworkers is overlooked. However, it can be shown when one employee helps another reach a deadline without being asked. 
  • In any industry, you may encounter problems that seem daunting. Cross-industry collaboration may prove useful to come up with unique solutions that aren’t typically used in certain situations. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “There are some mistakes everybody needs to make for themselves to learn from them.” - Billie Thorne


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> The ideal business is one where the needs of the employees are balanced perfectly with the goals of the business. One key to finding this balance is hospitality among employees. On today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan talks to an expert on working with your employees. Joining the show this week is Principal & Vice President at C+TC Design Studio, Billie Thorne


Billie and Dan Billie sit down to dive into her experiences as a leader in the world of hospitality. Billie shares ways to best work with your employees, how to be hospitable to your coworkers, and the importance of carving out time for self care. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about kindness and finding where you are comfortable. Once you get settled in a good place, you can extend your hand to newer employees and help them learn and grow. 
  • Building a team of professionals requires different forms of guidance and understanding. Some people need to be prompted to think about their goals and aspirations and others need a small push to a healthy space outside their comfort zone.
  • Finding the right employees doesn’t only mean looking at a resume, rather, it involves feedback from members of the team. Team members who enjoy each other’s presence and can cooperate smoothly will be more willing to work together in person. 
  • Individual employee goals have to work in coordination with functional business. There has to be a balance between allowing people to focus on personal goals and working to maintain the profit and productivity of the business.
  • Work smarter not longer. Though long hours can be sometimes helpful for productivity, more often, you can achieve more on a regular day rather than working late, because as you reach the end of the day, fatigue slows your efficiency.
  • It is important to be hospitable to both clients and coworkers, but often, hospitality toward coworkers is overlooked. However, it can be shown when one employee helps another reach a deadline without being asked. 
  • In any industry, you may encounter problems that seem daunting. Cross-industry collaboration may prove useful to come up with unique solutions that aren’t typically used in certain situations. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “There are some mistakes everybody needs to make for themselves to learn from them.” - Billie Thorne


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2538 The ideal business is one where the needs of the employees are balanced perfectly with the goals of the business. One key to finding this balance is hospitality among employees. On today’s episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan talks to an expert on working with your employees. Joining the show this week is Principal & Vice President at C+TC Design Studio, Billie Thorne


Billie and Dan Billie sit down to dive into her experiences as a leader in the world of hospitality. Billie shares ways to best work with your employees, how to be hospitable to your coworkers, and the importance of carving out time for self care. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about kindness and finding where you are comfortable. Once you get settled in a good place, you can extend your hand to newer employees and help them learn and grow. 
  • Building a team of professionals requires different forms of guidance and understanding. Some people need to be prompted to think about their goals and aspirations and others need a small push to a healthy space outside their comfort zone.
  • Finding the right employees doesn’t only mean looking at a resume, rather, it involves feedback from members of the team. Team members who enjoy each other’s presence and can cooperate smoothly will be more willing to work together in person. 
  • Individual employee goals have to work in coordination with functional business. There has to be a balance between allowing people to focus on personal goals and working to maintain the profit and productivity of the business.
  • Work smarter not longer. Though long hours can be sometimes helpful for productivity, more often, you can achieve more on a regular day rather than working late, because as you reach the end of the day, fatigue slows your efficiency.
  • It is important to be hospitable to both clients and coworkers, but often, hospitality toward coworkers is overlooked. However, it can be shown when one employee helps another reach a deadline without being asked. 
  • In any industry, you may encounter problems that seem daunting. Cross-industry collaboration may prove useful to come up with unique solutions that aren’t typically used in certain situations. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “There are some mistakes everybody needs to make for themselves to learn from them.” - Billie Thorne


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Collaborating On A Creative Process - Pierre Josselin - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 117 117 117 Collaborating On A Creative Process - Pierre Josselin - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 117 full a0e9fff9-0770-48f6-abae-c06f367d9d54 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7deda0b3 Starting your own firm can be a nervous experience, but the creative freedom it offers can be well worth it. Joining the show this week is an interior designer who draws inspiration from his 25 years of design experience around the globe. After working with multiple internationally renowned design firms he is now on the journey of running his own studio. Welcome to the show, Founder & Creative Director of Pierre & Co Design Studio, Pierre Josselin!


Pierre and Dan sit down to discuss Pierre’s motivations for starting a business, what excites him most about the design process, and the importance of having strong relationships with others in the industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a shared passion. Those in the industry have an exciting passion for the work they do. It is a people driven industry with a strong sense of togetherness that is focused on creating relationships. 
  • To create great designs, you need to cover every aspect of the project, and understand what it takes to get to the finish line. Avoiding unnecessary handoffs of work results in a higher quality and more consistent project that is completed in less time. 
  • As a designer, it’s important to understand how your answers affect the rest of the process. A timely response to a client’s question not only results in a happier client, but a faster project. A delayed answer delays further steps of the project.
  • The best coworkers you can have are ones that challenge you, but who you can also challenge. Great ideas are not born in a vacuum, and fostering a space that allows for collaboration and feedback will open your eyes to new designs. 
  • While going out on your own and starting your own firm can be daunting, it offers many benefits. As you have full control over the intricacies, you have full creative freedom, and the ability to complete work at a faster pace. 
  • In the design process, it is important to implement efficiencies wherever you can. Even by getting all the relevant parties in one room for the drawing process and doing instant revisions can shave weeks off of a project. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “The most successful colleagues you work with are the ones which challenge you, but you challenge as well.” - Pierre Josselin

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Starting your own firm can be a nervous experience, but the creative freedom it offers can be well worth it. Joining the show this week is an interior designer who draws inspiration from his 25 years of design experience around the globe. After working with multiple internationally renowned design firms he is now on the journey of running his own studio. Welcome to the show, Founder & Creative Director of Pierre & Co Design Studio, Pierre Josselin!


Pierre and Dan sit down to discuss Pierre’s motivations for starting a business, what excites him most about the design process, and the importance of having strong relationships with others in the industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a shared passion. Those in the industry have an exciting passion for the work they do. It is a people driven industry with a strong sense of togetherness that is focused on creating relationships. 
  • To create great designs, you need to cover every aspect of the project, and understand what it takes to get to the finish line. Avoiding unnecessary handoffs of work results in a higher quality and more consistent project that is completed in less time. 
  • As a designer, it’s important to understand how your answers affect the rest of the process. A timely response to a client’s question not only results in a happier client, but a faster project. A delayed answer delays further steps of the project.
  • The best coworkers you can have are ones that challenge you, but who you can also challenge. Great ideas are not born in a vacuum, and fostering a space that allows for collaboration and feedback will open your eyes to new designs. 
  • While going out on your own and starting your own firm can be daunting, it offers many benefits. As you have full control over the intricacies, you have full creative freedom, and the ability to complete work at a faster pace. 
  • In the design process, it is important to implement efficiencies wherever you can. Even by getting all the relevant parties in one room for the drawing process and doing instant revisions can shave weeks off of a project. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “The most successful colleagues you work with are the ones which challenge you, but you challenge as well.” - Pierre Josselin

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2403 Starting your own firm can be a nervous experience, but the creative freedom it offers can be well worth it. Joining the show this week is an interior designer who draws inspiration from his 25 years of design experience around the globe. After working with multiple internationally renowned design firms he is now on the journey of running his own studio. Welcome to the show, Founder & Creative Director of Pierre & Co Design Studio, Pierre Josselin!


Pierre and Dan sit down to discuss Pierre’s motivations for starting a business, what excites him most about the design process, and the importance of having strong relationships with others in the industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a shared passion. Those in the industry have an exciting passion for the work they do. It is a people driven industry with a strong sense of togetherness that is focused on creating relationships. 
  • To create great designs, you need to cover every aspect of the project, and understand what it takes to get to the finish line. Avoiding unnecessary handoffs of work results in a higher quality and more consistent project that is completed in less time. 
  • As a designer, it’s important to understand how your answers affect the rest of the process. A timely response to a client’s question not only results in a happier client, but a faster project. A delayed answer delays further steps of the project.
  • The best coworkers you can have are ones that challenge you, but who you can also challenge. Great ideas are not born in a vacuum, and fostering a space that allows for collaboration and feedback will open your eyes to new designs. 
  • While going out on your own and starting your own firm can be daunting, it offers many benefits. As you have full control over the intricacies, you have full creative freedom, and the ability to complete work at a faster pace. 
  • In the design process, it is important to implement efficiencies wherever you can. Even by getting all the relevant parties in one room for the drawing process and doing instant revisions can shave weeks off of a project. 


Quote of the Show:

  • “The most successful colleagues you work with are the ones which challenge you, but you challenge as well.” - Pierre Josselin

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Overcoming The Limitations Of Your Circumstances - Amanda Knox - Defining Hospitality - Ep # 116 116 116 Overcoming The Limitations Of Your Circumstances - Amanda Knox - Defining Hospitality - Ep # 116 full 1e303447-1576-4a30-89c7-4566b26a5a8e https://share.transistor.fm/s/d13d4efd In an environment designed to be anti hospitable, it is a daunting task to create a space of warmth and comfort. Today’s guest is someone who helps bring a sense of hospitality to otherwise unwelcoming spaces. She is an activist who fights for justice and advocates for those whose voices have been silenced. Joining the show this week is author of her memoir “Waiting to be heard” and the Host of the “Labyrinths” podcast, Amanda Knox.

Amanda sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share how she was an advocate for her community while in prison, the steps for resolving conflict with others, and the ways someone's background shapes others’ perceptions of them. 

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Someone's background creates a lens through which each interaction they have will be viewed. For people who are previously incarcerated, they face a lens of inherent suspicion and distrust from others. 
  • While tough situations require positive outlooks, those outlooks vary person to person. For Amanda, her positive outlook was accepting the circumstances, and making the best out of them. Her mother’s outlook was fighting for what was right without giving up. 
  • There are four steps to resolving conflict with a person. Set the stage by finding common ground you can agree on; identify the strongest form of their argument they are trying to argue; show them compassion; and ultimately, allow yourself to be open to change. 
  • When large impacts happen, they affect everyone around the individual. Families are put under undue emotional, financial, physical and emotional stress as they work to assist those affected.  
  • While Amanda was incarcerated, she sought to overcome the limitations of the situation and assist others as best she could. She became a writer and translator for other prisoners, helping them write home and read court documents. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “No matter what circumstance you are in, no matter what condition you're in, there's always the opportunity to connect with people and to make some kind of positive impact in other people's lives.” - Amanda Knox 

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> In an environment designed to be anti hospitable, it is a daunting task to create a space of warmth and comfort. Today’s guest is someone who helps bring a sense of hospitality to otherwise unwelcoming spaces. She is an activist who fights for justice and advocates for those whose voices have been silenced. Joining the show this week is author of her memoir “Waiting to be heard” and the Host of the “Labyrinths” podcast, Amanda Knox.

Amanda sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share how she was an advocate for her community while in prison, the steps for resolving conflict with others, and the ways someone's background shapes others’ perceptions of them. 

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Someone's background creates a lens through which each interaction they have will be viewed. For people who are previously incarcerated, they face a lens of inherent suspicion and distrust from others. 
  • While tough situations require positive outlooks, those outlooks vary person to person. For Amanda, her positive outlook was accepting the circumstances, and making the best out of them. Her mother’s outlook was fighting for what was right without giving up. 
  • There are four steps to resolving conflict with a person. Set the stage by finding common ground you can agree on; identify the strongest form of their argument they are trying to argue; show them compassion; and ultimately, allow yourself to be open to change. 
  • When large impacts happen, they affect everyone around the individual. Families are put under undue emotional, financial, physical and emotional stress as they work to assist those affected.  
  • While Amanda was incarcerated, she sought to overcome the limitations of the situation and assist others as best she could. She became a writer and translator for other prisoners, helping them write home and read court documents. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “No matter what circumstance you are in, no matter what condition you're in, there's always the opportunity to connect with people and to make some kind of positive impact in other people's lives.” - Amanda Knox 

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3433 In an environment designed to be anti hospitable, it is a daunting task to create a space of warmth and comfort. Today’s guest is someone who helps bring a sense of hospitality to otherwise unwelcoming spaces. She is an activist who fights for justice and advocates for those whose voices have been silenced. Joining the show this week is author of her memoir “Waiting to be heard” and the Host of the “Labyrinths” podcast, Amanda Knox.

Amanda sits down with Host Dan Ryan to share how she was an advocate for her community while in prison, the steps for resolving conflict with others, and the ways someone's background shapes others’ perceptions of them. 

Takeaways: 

  • True Hospitality is identifying someone's needs, and using the resources available to you to meet those needs. This can be enacted through giving someone a comfortable place to stay, or simply being an advocate for them.
  • Someone's background creates a lens through which each interaction they have will be viewed. For people who are previously incarcerated, they face a lens of inherent suspicion and distrust from others. 
  • While tough situations require positive outlooks, those outlooks vary person to person. For Amanda, her positive outlook was accepting the circumstances, and making the best out of them. Her mother’s outlook was fighting for what was right without giving up. 
  • There are four steps to resolving conflict with a person. Set the stage by finding common ground you can agree on; identify the strongest form of their argument they are trying to argue; show them compassion; and ultimately, allow yourself to be open to change. 
  • When large impacts happen, they affect everyone around the individual. Families are put under undue emotional, financial, physical and emotional stress as they work to assist those affected.  
  • While Amanda was incarcerated, she sought to overcome the limitations of the situation and assist others as best she could. She became a writer and translator for other prisoners, helping them write home and read court documents. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “No matter what circumstance you are in, no matter what condition you're in, there's always the opportunity to connect with people and to make some kind of positive impact in other people's lives.” - Amanda Knox 

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan All Guests Are Guests - Nicky Unkles - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 115 115 115 All Guests Are Guests - Nicky Unkles - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 115 full 0a751a31-499a-47c4-ab51-22b09189010d https://share.transistor.fm/s/6b0d839f In the world of design, you run the risk of losing focus on the end goal, creating great experiences for guests. Here to offer clarity is a development and planning specialist who excels at creating multi faceted luxury experiences. Projects that were completed under his vision include Faena Miami Beach, and Public NYC. Joining the show is Senior Vice President at Cumming Corporation, Nicky Unkles! Nicky shares his insights with Host Dan Ryan as they explore what it means to create luxury, and ultra luxury, experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality is a friendly reception of your guests. It means being authentic and sincere in your treatment of guests, anticipating their needs, and offering all guests the same experience, regardless if they are a CEO or an intern.
  • When it comes to balancing the needs of the stakeholders, and keeping your project on time, it starts with having a defined process. It’s important to stick to the process, but when it’s necessary to deviate, ensure all parties know the impact on the timeline. 
  • One of the biggest challenges for new hospitality projects during the pandemic was supply shortages. As budgets, timelines, and vendors had been set months in advance, it required a collaboration with procurement agents to find new options.
  • A typical project lives or dies within the first few days. When you first sit down with a client, your job is to help put their vision onto paper. Creating a layout and budget that reflect that vision, and your ability to sell it, will decide success for your project,
  • When you start a project, it’s crucial to see it to completion. While potentially grueling, you’ll quickly discover areas of improvement for the next iteration. Additionally, seeing a project from vision to closeout is invaluable experience as a designer.
  • Covid changed both the hospitality industry, and what guests want from their stays. Today’s guests want more service, and better experiences, with consistency as the keystone that holds the experience together.
  • The core of your design needs to revolve around the guest’s experiences. Certain design elements may seem like important additions, but if they won’t impact the guest experience, those additions are an unnecessary use of time, money, and effort. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “The world of hospitality is forever changed. People aren't going to accept substandard anymore.” - Nicky Unkles

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> In the world of design, you run the risk of losing focus on the end goal, creating great experiences for guests. Here to offer clarity is a development and planning specialist who excels at creating multi faceted luxury experiences. Projects that were completed under his vision include Faena Miami Beach, and Public NYC. Joining the show is Senior Vice President at Cumming Corporation, Nicky Unkles! Nicky shares his insights with Host Dan Ryan as they explore what it means to create luxury, and ultra luxury, experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality is a friendly reception of your guests. It means being authentic and sincere in your treatment of guests, anticipating their needs, and offering all guests the same experience, regardless if they are a CEO or an intern.
  • When it comes to balancing the needs of the stakeholders, and keeping your project on time, it starts with having a defined process. It’s important to stick to the process, but when it’s necessary to deviate, ensure all parties know the impact on the timeline. 
  • One of the biggest challenges for new hospitality projects during the pandemic was supply shortages. As budgets, timelines, and vendors had been set months in advance, it required a collaboration with procurement agents to find new options.
  • A typical project lives or dies within the first few days. When you first sit down with a client, your job is to help put their vision onto paper. Creating a layout and budget that reflect that vision, and your ability to sell it, will decide success for your project,
  • When you start a project, it’s crucial to see it to completion. While potentially grueling, you’ll quickly discover areas of improvement for the next iteration. Additionally, seeing a project from vision to closeout is invaluable experience as a designer.
  • Covid changed both the hospitality industry, and what guests want from their stays. Today’s guests want more service, and better experiences, with consistency as the keystone that holds the experience together.
  • The core of your design needs to revolve around the guest’s experiences. Certain design elements may seem like important additions, but if they won’t impact the guest experience, those additions are an unnecessary use of time, money, and effort. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “The world of hospitality is forever changed. People aren't going to accept substandard anymore.” - Nicky Unkles

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3109 In the world of design, you run the risk of losing focus on the end goal, creating great experiences for guests. Here to offer clarity is a development and planning specialist who excels at creating multi faceted luxury experiences. Projects that were completed under his vision include Faena Miami Beach, and Public NYC. Joining the show is Senior Vice President at Cumming Corporation, Nicky Unkles! Nicky shares his insights with Host Dan Ryan as they explore what it means to create luxury, and ultra luxury, experiences. 

Takeaways: 

  • True hospitality is a friendly reception of your guests. It means being authentic and sincere in your treatment of guests, anticipating their needs, and offering all guests the same experience, regardless if they are a CEO or an intern.
  • When it comes to balancing the needs of the stakeholders, and keeping your project on time, it starts with having a defined process. It’s important to stick to the process, but when it’s necessary to deviate, ensure all parties know the impact on the timeline. 
  • One of the biggest challenges for new hospitality projects during the pandemic was supply shortages. As budgets, timelines, and vendors had been set months in advance, it required a collaboration with procurement agents to find new options.
  • A typical project lives or dies within the first few days. When you first sit down with a client, your job is to help put their vision onto paper. Creating a layout and budget that reflect that vision, and your ability to sell it, will decide success for your project,
  • When you start a project, it’s crucial to see it to completion. While potentially grueling, you’ll quickly discover areas of improvement for the next iteration. Additionally, seeing a project from vision to closeout is invaluable experience as a designer.
  • Covid changed both the hospitality industry, and what guests want from their stays. Today’s guests want more service, and better experiences, with consistency as the keystone that holds the experience together.
  • The core of your design needs to revolve around the guest’s experiences. Certain design elements may seem like important additions, but if they won’t impact the guest experience, those additions are an unnecessary use of time, money, and effort. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “The world of hospitality is forever changed. People aren't going to accept substandard anymore.” - Nicky Unkles

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Imbuing A Story Into Your Design - Taniya Nayak - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 114 114 114 Imbuing A Story Into Your Design - Taniya Nayak - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 114 full 7b1c9a9d-b4e4-40e4-98f0-c9217eb78e2a https://share.transistor.fm/s/a863bbe9 Our guest this week is an interior designer who has become a household name. She’s an expert storyteller, creating compelling stories through both her design, and her appearances on screen. She’s been frequently featured on HGTV as a host and mentor on “Battle on the Beach” and “Build it forward”. Joining the show this week is Principal and Interior Designer at Taniya Nayak Design, Taniya Nayak!

Taniya sits down with Dan to dive into her background as a designer. She covers the ways that bartending helped her refine her design skills, the necessity of designing your spaces for a wide range of guest experiences, and how she got started as a host on HGTV. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Taniya, hospitality means addressing all the small nuances of an experience. It means creating a warm and inviting space where you are thinking about every possible customer scenario. 
  • Balancing operations and design is a delicate task as you will often need to choose between prioritizing aesthetics or cost. Ultimately, the choices you make need to revolve around the experience you are trying to create for your guests. 
  • Creating an experience your guests want to evangelize is important because a guest’s journey begins with a review. Their expectations of your space are set by what they read beforehand, and a bad review can set guests up with a pretense of your space.
  • A quality product is the cornerstone of any successful business, but the presentation around that product determines your success. An ok product with great presentation will outshine a great product with lackluster presentation. 
  • As a designer, you need to tell a story that relates to the guests in your establishment. Each element should correlate either functionally or emotionally to the story of why your guest is in that space. 
  • As a young designer, it can feel demoralizing to not land a design job right out of college. Retail, customer service, and food service jobs give you firsthand knowledge into how those environments run, making your future designs for those spaces more effective. 
  • For leaders in the design space, you need to create environments for your employees to thrive. Encourage communication, and make your employees feel comfortable being vulnerable. From their honest sharing comes opportunities for you to help them grow. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I want to make sure that when the guest comes in, they are greeted by a warm and inviting space.” - Taniya Nayak

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest this week is an interior designer who has become a household name. She’s an expert storyteller, creating compelling stories through both her design, and her appearances on screen. She’s been frequently featured on HGTV as a host and mentor on “Battle on the Beach” and “Build it forward”. Joining the show this week is Principal and Interior Designer at Taniya Nayak Design, Taniya Nayak!

Taniya sits down with Dan to dive into her background as a designer. She covers the ways that bartending helped her refine her design skills, the necessity of designing your spaces for a wide range of guest experiences, and how she got started as a host on HGTV. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Taniya, hospitality means addressing all the small nuances of an experience. It means creating a warm and inviting space where you are thinking about every possible customer scenario. 
  • Balancing operations and design is a delicate task as you will often need to choose between prioritizing aesthetics or cost. Ultimately, the choices you make need to revolve around the experience you are trying to create for your guests. 
  • Creating an experience your guests want to evangelize is important because a guest’s journey begins with a review. Their expectations of your space are set by what they read beforehand, and a bad review can set guests up with a pretense of your space.
  • A quality product is the cornerstone of any successful business, but the presentation around that product determines your success. An ok product with great presentation will outshine a great product with lackluster presentation. 
  • As a designer, you need to tell a story that relates to the guests in your establishment. Each element should correlate either functionally or emotionally to the story of why your guest is in that space. 
  • As a young designer, it can feel demoralizing to not land a design job right out of college. Retail, customer service, and food service jobs give you firsthand knowledge into how those environments run, making your future designs for those spaces more effective. 
  • For leaders in the design space, you need to create environments for your employees to thrive. Encourage communication, and make your employees feel comfortable being vulnerable. From their honest sharing comes opportunities for you to help them grow. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I want to make sure that when the guest comes in, they are greeted by a warm and inviting space.” - Taniya Nayak

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2998 Our guest this week is an interior designer who has become a household name. She’s an expert storyteller, creating compelling stories through both her design, and her appearances on screen. She’s been frequently featured on HGTV as a host and mentor on “Battle on the Beach” and “Build it forward”. Joining the show this week is Principal and Interior Designer at Taniya Nayak Design, Taniya Nayak!

Taniya sits down with Dan to dive into her background as a designer. She covers the ways that bartending helped her refine her design skills, the necessity of designing your spaces for a wide range of guest experiences, and how she got started as a host on HGTV. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Taniya, hospitality means addressing all the small nuances of an experience. It means creating a warm and inviting space where you are thinking about every possible customer scenario. 
  • Balancing operations and design is a delicate task as you will often need to choose between prioritizing aesthetics or cost. Ultimately, the choices you make need to revolve around the experience you are trying to create for your guests. 
  • Creating an experience your guests want to evangelize is important because a guest’s journey begins with a review. Their expectations of your space are set by what they read beforehand, and a bad review can set guests up with a pretense of your space.
  • A quality product is the cornerstone of any successful business, but the presentation around that product determines your success. An ok product with great presentation will outshine a great product with lackluster presentation. 
  • As a designer, you need to tell a story that relates to the guests in your establishment. Each element should correlate either functionally or emotionally to the story of why your guest is in that space. 
  • As a young designer, it can feel demoralizing to not land a design job right out of college. Retail, customer service, and food service jobs give you firsthand knowledge into how those environments run, making your future designs for those spaces more effective. 
  • For leaders in the design space, you need to create environments for your employees to thrive. Encourage communication, and make your employees feel comfortable being vulnerable. From their honest sharing comes opportunities for you to help them grow. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I want to make sure that when the guest comes in, they are greeted by a warm and inviting space.” - Taniya Nayak

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality From Your Community - Scott Maloney - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 113 113 113 Hospitality From Your Community - Scott Maloney - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 113 full 72c45758-6cbb-4a70-ae9f-d3d2edfc8369 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1d69fb29 To create truly epic experiences, you need to combine both people and place. Our guest this week is a visionary leader of both extraordinary people and projects. He’s a Global Industry Group Champion in Entrepreneurs Organization and an Advisory Board Member for the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University. Welcome to the show, Founder of K2M Design, Scott Maloney! 

Scott joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the value of collecting nos, how to create epic experiences for guests, and how networks like Entrepreneurs Organization have helped him on his journey. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about people and places coming together to create an epic experience where people are able to join to support dreams and desires. Some organizations are built to encourage the bonding of great minds.
  • The Entrepreneur's Organization is the epitome of hospitality in the senses that it creates a safe and confidential space for the members to learn from other inspiring people and be encouraged by them 
  • In the architecture and design space, hospitality means finding a compromise between a design being structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Being able to fulfill the safety requirements while listening to the vision will create loyalty from the building owner. 
  • Accepting a project requires a deep understanding of expectations followed by fulfillment or overachievement. In a business that heavily relies on referrals, one experience can cost or gain many million-dollar contracts. 
  • When trying to level up in size and costs of projects, it’s not a straightforward job of increasing size, but instead, improving the effort and quality of your work. Increased job cost requires increased experience and added value by the business. 
  • Development projects must be planned thoroughly before beginning for the sake of sustainability. Every change made will create by-products to be removed from the lot or funneled to another project and each decision needs to be made with intentionality.  
  • Hospitality exists inside the organization. Care must extend to employees. Leaders and owners need to be there for coworkers, caring for each of them and making sure everyone is successfully collaborating. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You know what you need to do, follow your gut cuz it's gonna get you a long way. ” - Scott Maloney


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> To create truly epic experiences, you need to combine both people and place. Our guest this week is a visionary leader of both extraordinary people and projects. He’s a Global Industry Group Champion in Entrepreneurs Organization and an Advisory Board Member for the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University. Welcome to the show, Founder of K2M Design, Scott Maloney! 

Scott joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the value of collecting nos, how to create epic experiences for guests, and how networks like Entrepreneurs Organization have helped him on his journey. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about people and places coming together to create an epic experience where people are able to join to support dreams and desires. Some organizations are built to encourage the bonding of great minds.
  • The Entrepreneur's Organization is the epitome of hospitality in the senses that it creates a safe and confidential space for the members to learn from other inspiring people and be encouraged by them 
  • In the architecture and design space, hospitality means finding a compromise between a design being structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Being able to fulfill the safety requirements while listening to the vision will create loyalty from the building owner. 
  • Accepting a project requires a deep understanding of expectations followed by fulfillment or overachievement. In a business that heavily relies on referrals, one experience can cost or gain many million-dollar contracts. 
  • When trying to level up in size and costs of projects, it’s not a straightforward job of increasing size, but instead, improving the effort and quality of your work. Increased job cost requires increased experience and added value by the business. 
  • Development projects must be planned thoroughly before beginning for the sake of sustainability. Every change made will create by-products to be removed from the lot or funneled to another project and each decision needs to be made with intentionality.  
  • Hospitality exists inside the organization. Care must extend to employees. Leaders and owners need to be there for coworkers, caring for each of them and making sure everyone is successfully collaborating. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You know what you need to do, follow your gut cuz it's gonna get you a long way. ” - Scott Maloney


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3051 To create truly epic experiences, you need to combine both people and place. Our guest this week is a visionary leader of both extraordinary people and projects. He’s a Global Industry Group Champion in Entrepreneurs Organization and an Advisory Board Member for the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University. Welcome to the show, Founder of K2M Design, Scott Maloney! 

Scott joins Host Dan Ryan to dive into the value of collecting nos, how to create epic experiences for guests, and how networks like Entrepreneurs Organization have helped him on his journey. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about people and places coming together to create an epic experience where people are able to join to support dreams and desires. Some organizations are built to encourage the bonding of great minds.
  • The Entrepreneur's Organization is the epitome of hospitality in the senses that it creates a safe and confidential space for the members to learn from other inspiring people and be encouraged by them 
  • In the architecture and design space, hospitality means finding a compromise between a design being structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Being able to fulfill the safety requirements while listening to the vision will create loyalty from the building owner. 
  • Accepting a project requires a deep understanding of expectations followed by fulfillment or overachievement. In a business that heavily relies on referrals, one experience can cost or gain many million-dollar contracts. 
  • When trying to level up in size and costs of projects, it’s not a straightforward job of increasing size, but instead, improving the effort and quality of your work. Increased job cost requires increased experience and added value by the business. 
  • Development projects must be planned thoroughly before beginning for the sake of sustainability. Every change made will create by-products to be removed from the lot or funneled to another project and each decision needs to be made with intentionality.  
  • Hospitality exists inside the organization. Care must extend to employees. Leaders and owners need to be there for coworkers, caring for each of them and making sure everyone is successfully collaborating. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You know what you need to do, follow your gut cuz it's gonna get you a long way. ” - Scott Maloney


Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Wake of Hospitality - Kim Kaupe - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 112 112 112 The Wake of Hospitality - Kim Kaupe - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 112 full 07dbd92f-a207-46e6-a26a-9b9aa55e1f1a https://share.transistor.fm/s/3977cb30 Each and every person, regardless of profession, is in the industry of hospitality. The interactions you have with everyone create ripples of hospitality that extend well beyond a single moment. To help you create big ripples, we’re joined by an entrepreneur whose mission is to help others let their business-based superpowers shine. Joining the show this week is Host of the Podcast “Coffee with Kim” and Co-Founder of Bright Ideas Only, Kim Kaupe. Dan sits down with Kim to learn about why LinkedIn is the best platform to focus your energy on, how we are all in hospitality, and how to be more confident when evangelizing your own work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the stone you throw into a pond and the impacts on others are the ripples in the water. It is also how people talk about you when you’re not in the room, how you make them feel, and what people are walking away from interactions with. 
  • Being the champion of your own accomplishments is difficult. Speak about yourself as you would your best friend. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge accomplishments, highlight your skills, and be direct when asked about your career responsibilities. 
  • Business awards, like the “40 Under 40”, can help further your professional goals and raises. Following in the thread of being the champion of your accomplishments, you can also nominate yourself for these awards without fear of being underqualified.
  • If you only have time for one social platform, LinkedIn is the best. It’s the only one that is crawled by Google so content doesn’t get lost in the archives. As only 1% of LinkedIn users post, your content won’t be lost in a heavily saturated feed. 
  • Because LinkedIn shows what your connections comment on and like, it boosts the reach of any content you post, displaying it on a worldwide platform full of C-Suite Executives.
  • Share your knowledge and content, whether you think it’s valuable or not. If one person or a hundred thousand people find it important, you made an impact, changed their direction, or taught them something new.
  • When running a business, you are pitching not only the product or service, but also yourself in tandem with your brand. By being succinct in describing your skills, you help the client more confidently make the decision to choose you.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Talking about yourself or sharing your knowledge will be like the very first pushup in the gym, but you have to keep going.” - Kim Kaupe

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Each and every person, regardless of profession, is in the industry of hospitality. The interactions you have with everyone create ripples of hospitality that extend well beyond a single moment. To help you create big ripples, we’re joined by an entrepreneur whose mission is to help others let their business-based superpowers shine. Joining the show this week is Host of the Podcast “Coffee with Kim” and Co-Founder of Bright Ideas Only, Kim Kaupe. Dan sits down with Kim to learn about why LinkedIn is the best platform to focus your energy on, how we are all in hospitality, and how to be more confident when evangelizing your own work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the stone you throw into a pond and the impacts on others are the ripples in the water. It is also how people talk about you when you’re not in the room, how you make them feel, and what people are walking away from interactions with. 
  • Being the champion of your own accomplishments is difficult. Speak about yourself as you would your best friend. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge accomplishments, highlight your skills, and be direct when asked about your career responsibilities. 
  • Business awards, like the “40 Under 40”, can help further your professional goals and raises. Following in the thread of being the champion of your accomplishments, you can also nominate yourself for these awards without fear of being underqualified.
  • If you only have time for one social platform, LinkedIn is the best. It’s the only one that is crawled by Google so content doesn’t get lost in the archives. As only 1% of LinkedIn users post, your content won’t be lost in a heavily saturated feed. 
  • Because LinkedIn shows what your connections comment on and like, it boosts the reach of any content you post, displaying it on a worldwide platform full of C-Suite Executives.
  • Share your knowledge and content, whether you think it’s valuable or not. If one person or a hundred thousand people find it important, you made an impact, changed their direction, or taught them something new.
  • When running a business, you are pitching not only the product or service, but also yourself in tandem with your brand. By being succinct in describing your skills, you help the client more confidently make the decision to choose you.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Talking about yourself or sharing your knowledge will be like the very first pushup in the gym, but you have to keep going.” - Kim Kaupe

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3902 Each and every person, regardless of profession, is in the industry of hospitality. The interactions you have with everyone create ripples of hospitality that extend well beyond a single moment. To help you create big ripples, we’re joined by an entrepreneur whose mission is to help others let their business-based superpowers shine. Joining the show this week is Host of the Podcast “Coffee with Kim” and Co-Founder of Bright Ideas Only, Kim Kaupe. Dan sits down with Kim to learn about why LinkedIn is the best platform to focus your energy on, how we are all in hospitality, and how to be more confident when evangelizing your own work. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the stone you throw into a pond and the impacts on others are the ripples in the water. It is also how people talk about you when you’re not in the room, how you make them feel, and what people are walking away from interactions with. 
  • Being the champion of your own accomplishments is difficult. Speak about yourself as you would your best friend. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge accomplishments, highlight your skills, and be direct when asked about your career responsibilities. 
  • Business awards, like the “40 Under 40”, can help further your professional goals and raises. Following in the thread of being the champion of your accomplishments, you can also nominate yourself for these awards without fear of being underqualified.
  • If you only have time for one social platform, LinkedIn is the best. It’s the only one that is crawled by Google so content doesn’t get lost in the archives. As only 1% of LinkedIn users post, your content won’t be lost in a heavily saturated feed. 
  • Because LinkedIn shows what your connections comment on and like, it boosts the reach of any content you post, displaying it on a worldwide platform full of C-Suite Executives.
  • Share your knowledge and content, whether you think it’s valuable or not. If one person or a hundred thousand people find it important, you made an impact, changed their direction, or taught them something new.
  • When running a business, you are pitching not only the product or service, but also yourself in tandem with your brand. By being succinct in describing your skills, you help the client more confidently make the decision to choose you.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Talking about yourself or sharing your knowledge will be like the very first pushup in the gym, but you have to keep going.” - Kim Kaupe

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Erudition And Elevation - Dr. Kimberly McGlonn - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 111 111 111 Erudition And Elevation - Dr. Kimberly McGlonn - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 111 full 31ad30b5-d77c-4a1c-8e5d-934587bbac1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/9f678e21 Our guest this week is a genuine disruptor in her industry. As the leader of a Bcorp, she strives to make real change in her community. She is a defender of civil and human rights, who works within the intersection of social and environmental justice. She’s the Host of “The School for Disrupters” podcast, a faculty member at Drexel University, and CEO and Founder of Grant BLVD. Give a warm welcome to Dr. Kimberly McGlonn!

Kimberly shares her motivations behind the work she does through Grant BLVD, and how she positions the company to provide support for those currently and formerly incarcerated. She’ll explore the process of telling a story through your partners, and how thoughtful design of uniforms can create a cohesive experience. 


Takeaways: 

  • For Kimberly, hospitality is focused on creating a sense of comfort, safety, and belonging in your guests. You need to replicate your own experiences, and allow others to have access to it.
  • Whether it’s a classroom, a restaurant, or hotel, hospitality is about creating a story that anchors people in the moment. Seating arrangements, uniforms, and decor are all integral chapters of that story that need to be cohesively organized.
  • When creating a great business, you need to focus on your impact, and the ways you measure and communicate it. When your business strives to be a force for good, you grow both your company, and your community. 
  • Business is all about telling the story of your values, and choosing the right partners can amplify those stories. By partnering with Grant BLVD or other companies that fight for good, you establish that those are the stories you want to share. 
  • Grant BLVD aims to combat the effects of incarceration and high recidivism rates in Philadelphia. To best serve her community, Kimberly has created a model to provide support and job opportunities to those currently and formerly incarcerated. 
  • A good uniform is well fitting and serves a purpose, a great uniform is united in design with the whole experience. By incorporating elements of color theory and aesthetic into your uniforms, customers are no longer walking into a business, but rather, a party.
  • When creating a dining space, cohesion is important. Your servers don’t literally need to be wearing the same fabric as the tablecloths, but every aspect should be tied into each other in one fluid design. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That moment of feeling received is what I think we're all seeking to do in the ventures that we build.” - Kimberly McGlonn

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Our guest this week is a genuine disruptor in her industry. As the leader of a Bcorp, she strives to make real change in her community. She is a defender of civil and human rights, who works within the intersection of social and environmental justice. She’s the Host of “The School for Disrupters” podcast, a faculty member at Drexel University, and CEO and Founder of Grant BLVD. Give a warm welcome to Dr. Kimberly McGlonn!

Kimberly shares her motivations behind the work she does through Grant BLVD, and how she positions the company to provide support for those currently and formerly incarcerated. She’ll explore the process of telling a story through your partners, and how thoughtful design of uniforms can create a cohesive experience. 


Takeaways: 

  • For Kimberly, hospitality is focused on creating a sense of comfort, safety, and belonging in your guests. You need to replicate your own experiences, and allow others to have access to it.
  • Whether it’s a classroom, a restaurant, or hotel, hospitality is about creating a story that anchors people in the moment. Seating arrangements, uniforms, and decor are all integral chapters of that story that need to be cohesively organized.
  • When creating a great business, you need to focus on your impact, and the ways you measure and communicate it. When your business strives to be a force for good, you grow both your company, and your community. 
  • Business is all about telling the story of your values, and choosing the right partners can amplify those stories. By partnering with Grant BLVD or other companies that fight for good, you establish that those are the stories you want to share. 
  • Grant BLVD aims to combat the effects of incarceration and high recidivism rates in Philadelphia. To best serve her community, Kimberly has created a model to provide support and job opportunities to those currently and formerly incarcerated. 
  • A good uniform is well fitting and serves a purpose, a great uniform is united in design with the whole experience. By incorporating elements of color theory and aesthetic into your uniforms, customers are no longer walking into a business, but rather, a party.
  • When creating a dining space, cohesion is important. Your servers don’t literally need to be wearing the same fabric as the tablecloths, but every aspect should be tied into each other in one fluid design. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That moment of feeling received is what I think we're all seeking to do in the ventures that we build.” - Kimberly McGlonn

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 21 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3329 Our guest this week is a genuine disruptor in her industry. As the leader of a Bcorp, she strives to make real change in her community. She is a defender of civil and human rights, who works within the intersection of social and environmental justice. She’s the Host of “The School for Disrupters” podcast, a faculty member at Drexel University, and CEO and Founder of Grant BLVD. Give a warm welcome to Dr. Kimberly McGlonn!

Kimberly shares her motivations behind the work she does through Grant BLVD, and how she positions the company to provide support for those currently and formerly incarcerated. She’ll explore the process of telling a story through your partners, and how thoughtful design of uniforms can create a cohesive experience. 


Takeaways: 

  • For Kimberly, hospitality is focused on creating a sense of comfort, safety, and belonging in your guests. You need to replicate your own experiences, and allow others to have access to it.
  • Whether it’s a classroom, a restaurant, or hotel, hospitality is about creating a story that anchors people in the moment. Seating arrangements, uniforms, and decor are all integral chapters of that story that need to be cohesively organized.
  • When creating a great business, you need to focus on your impact, and the ways you measure and communicate it. When your business strives to be a force for good, you grow both your company, and your community. 
  • Business is all about telling the story of your values, and choosing the right partners can amplify those stories. By partnering with Grant BLVD or other companies that fight for good, you establish that those are the stories you want to share. 
  • Grant BLVD aims to combat the effects of incarceration and high recidivism rates in Philadelphia. To best serve her community, Kimberly has created a model to provide support and job opportunities to those currently and formerly incarcerated. 
  • A good uniform is well fitting and serves a purpose, a great uniform is united in design with the whole experience. By incorporating elements of color theory and aesthetic into your uniforms, customers are no longer walking into a business, but rather, a party.
  • When creating a dining space, cohesion is important. Your servers don’t literally need to be wearing the same fabric as the tablecloths, but every aspect should be tied into each other in one fluid design. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “That moment of feeling received is what I think we're all seeking to do in the ventures that we build.” - Kimberly McGlonn

Links:

Shout Outs:


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Choosing Greatness Over Growth - Lisa Schultz - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 110 110 110 Choosing Greatness Over Growth - Lisa Schultz - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 110 full be350075-8174-4c8b-aa99-899affeb1a35 https://share.transistor.fm/s/af548b26 Customers are guests who have honored you with their patronage. Adding in special touches can show your gratitude in a way that earns their repeat business. Expanding your business does not mean you forfeit the ability to make changes in your community, Zingerman’s is proof of this. Learn from a 19-year customer service veteran, Zingy leader, and Managing Partner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse, Lisa Schultz.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of eating in a Zingerman’s location and witnessing their hospitality first hand, listen to Lisa speak about the critical steps to Giving Great Service..

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means accommodating your guests to make their experience unique and special, while providing consistently great service and quality food. Consistency is essential because the guest should know what level of service to expect. 
  • All Zingerman’s locations follow their Three Steps to Giving Great Service. First, find out what the guest wants, get it for them accurately, politely, and enthusiastically, and lastly, go the extra mile. Do these steps consistently to create a reliably great experience.
  • ​​Use the process of visioning to create future plans. Look at goals for success and future objectives, internally and externally, at relationships with vendors, your staff’s experience, and every aspect that could affect success. 
  • Open book accounting and management allows every employee from dishwashers to shift leaders to feel like they have an impact on processes. You will have suggestions for improvement on issues that upper management might not notice. 
  • Open book processes also improve retention and hiring of employees who want their opinion to matter or who want to participate in the success of the business. It will allow people to improve points of frustration or disagreement.
  • Choosing greatness over growth does not mean you forfeit growth. You will instead, grow in a way that creates raving fans in a world where word of mouth is one of the most impactful marketing tactics, while being free. 
  • If your employees care, it translates to good service. A serving team’s genuine care will shine through to the guest and make a uniquely welcoming experience. Otherwise, you have a team of people who aren’t invested in the wellbeing of your guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If your staff feel taken care of, they're probably going to give better service.” - Lisa Schultz

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Customers are guests who have honored you with their patronage. Adding in special touches can show your gratitude in a way that earns their repeat business. Expanding your business does not mean you forfeit the ability to make changes in your community, Zingerman’s is proof of this. Learn from a 19-year customer service veteran, Zingy leader, and Managing Partner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse, Lisa Schultz.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of eating in a Zingerman’s location and witnessing their hospitality first hand, listen to Lisa speak about the critical steps to Giving Great Service..

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means accommodating your guests to make their experience unique and special, while providing consistently great service and quality food. Consistency is essential because the guest should know what level of service to expect. 
  • All Zingerman’s locations follow their Three Steps to Giving Great Service. First, find out what the guest wants, get it for them accurately, politely, and enthusiastically, and lastly, go the extra mile. Do these steps consistently to create a reliably great experience.
  • ​​Use the process of visioning to create future plans. Look at goals for success and future objectives, internally and externally, at relationships with vendors, your staff’s experience, and every aspect that could affect success. 
  • Open book accounting and management allows every employee from dishwashers to shift leaders to feel like they have an impact on processes. You will have suggestions for improvement on issues that upper management might not notice. 
  • Open book processes also improve retention and hiring of employees who want their opinion to matter or who want to participate in the success of the business. It will allow people to improve points of frustration or disagreement.
  • Choosing greatness over growth does not mean you forfeit growth. You will instead, grow in a way that creates raving fans in a world where word of mouth is one of the most impactful marketing tactics, while being free. 
  • If your employees care, it translates to good service. A serving team’s genuine care will shine through to the guest and make a uniquely welcoming experience. Otherwise, you have a team of people who aren’t invested in the wellbeing of your guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If your staff feel taken care of, they're probably going to give better service.” - Lisa Schultz

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 14 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2413 Customers are guests who have honored you with their patronage. Adding in special touches can show your gratitude in a way that earns their repeat business. Expanding your business does not mean you forfeit the ability to make changes in your community, Zingerman’s is proof of this. Learn from a 19-year customer service veteran, Zingy leader, and Managing Partner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse, Lisa Schultz.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of eating in a Zingerman’s location and witnessing their hospitality first hand, listen to Lisa speak about the critical steps to Giving Great Service..

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality means accommodating your guests to make their experience unique and special, while providing consistently great service and quality food. Consistency is essential because the guest should know what level of service to expect. 
  • All Zingerman’s locations follow their Three Steps to Giving Great Service. First, find out what the guest wants, get it for them accurately, politely, and enthusiastically, and lastly, go the extra mile. Do these steps consistently to create a reliably great experience.
  • ​​Use the process of visioning to create future plans. Look at goals for success and future objectives, internally and externally, at relationships with vendors, your staff’s experience, and every aspect that could affect success. 
  • Open book accounting and management allows every employee from dishwashers to shift leaders to feel like they have an impact on processes. You will have suggestions for improvement on issues that upper management might not notice. 
  • Open book processes also improve retention and hiring of employees who want their opinion to matter or who want to participate in the success of the business. It will allow people to improve points of frustration or disagreement.
  • Choosing greatness over growth does not mean you forfeit growth. You will instead, grow in a way that creates raving fans in a world where word of mouth is one of the most impactful marketing tactics, while being free. 
  • If your employees care, it translates to good service. A serving team’s genuine care will shine through to the guest and make a uniquely welcoming experience. Otherwise, you have a team of people who aren’t invested in the wellbeing of your guests. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “If your staff feel taken care of, they're probably going to give better service.” - Lisa Schultz

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Understanding The Heart Of Third Party Management - Chris Green - Defining Hospitality - Ep#109 109 109 Understanding The Heart Of Third Party Management - Chris Green - Defining Hospitality - Ep#109 full 8b9353fc-500e-49c0-bbda-aa12a7322857 https://share.transistor.fm/s/00b53126 This week on Defining Hospitality, we have the pleasure of welcoming back a hospitality veteran who has consistently showcased his exceptional skills in the industry. As the guest on the third episode, he dove into his experiences as the leader of Chesapeake Hospitality. Returning to the show nearly two years later is President of Remington Hospitality, Chris Green. Chris reflects on the ways his definition of hospitality, and the industry at large, have evolved over the years. Chris sheds light on the process of merging Chesapeake Hospitality with Remington Hospitality, and the recent rebranding of the company. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Chris, hospitality comes not from the knowledge in your head, but the motivations in your heart. Hospitality is the combination of how you relate to others, how committed you are, and how you spend time with those around you. 
  • When you work with a variety of owners, you need to understand the heart and connection that each owner has. Some owners prioritize profits, while others prioritize service. Different requirements need different management styles. 
  • A merger of two companies takes work, but the most important work comes before the acquisition. Instead of assessing compatibility on economic plans alone, spend time making sure your cultures, values, and goals are in alignment. 
  • No matter what your business goals are, you can never let the focus come off of the people. People are the heart of your operation, and if you want to achieve success, you need to make sure your people are enabled for success. 
  • When a new opportunity arises, it’s usual to go out and find a new buyer to strike up a relationship with. However, if you present that opportunity to current clients instead, you shift from being a commodity to a true partner. 
  • Personal wellbeing programs are important to keep a company running smoothly, but the focus needs to be on all employees. It’s not enough for the C-suite to implement something they think works. You need proper feedback from ground level employees.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is not hard, it’s heart.” - Chris Green

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> This week on Defining Hospitality, we have the pleasure of welcoming back a hospitality veteran who has consistently showcased his exceptional skills in the industry. As the guest on the third episode, he dove into his experiences as the leader of Chesapeake Hospitality. Returning to the show nearly two years later is President of Remington Hospitality, Chris Green. Chris reflects on the ways his definition of hospitality, and the industry at large, have evolved over the years. Chris sheds light on the process of merging Chesapeake Hospitality with Remington Hospitality, and the recent rebranding of the company. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Chris, hospitality comes not from the knowledge in your head, but the motivations in your heart. Hospitality is the combination of how you relate to others, how committed you are, and how you spend time with those around you. 
  • When you work with a variety of owners, you need to understand the heart and connection that each owner has. Some owners prioritize profits, while others prioritize service. Different requirements need different management styles. 
  • A merger of two companies takes work, but the most important work comes before the acquisition. Instead of assessing compatibility on economic plans alone, spend time making sure your cultures, values, and goals are in alignment. 
  • No matter what your business goals are, you can never let the focus come off of the people. People are the heart of your operation, and if you want to achieve success, you need to make sure your people are enabled for success. 
  • When a new opportunity arises, it’s usual to go out and find a new buyer to strike up a relationship with. However, if you present that opportunity to current clients instead, you shift from being a commodity to a true partner. 
  • Personal wellbeing programs are important to keep a company running smoothly, but the focus needs to be on all employees. It’s not enough for the C-suite to implement something they think works. You need proper feedback from ground level employees.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is not hard, it’s heart.” - Chris Green

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 07 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2210 This week on Defining Hospitality, we have the pleasure of welcoming back a hospitality veteran who has consistently showcased his exceptional skills in the industry. As the guest on the third episode, he dove into his experiences as the leader of Chesapeake Hospitality. Returning to the show nearly two years later is President of Remington Hospitality, Chris Green. Chris reflects on the ways his definition of hospitality, and the industry at large, have evolved over the years. Chris sheds light on the process of merging Chesapeake Hospitality with Remington Hospitality, and the recent rebranding of the company. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Chris, hospitality comes not from the knowledge in your head, but the motivations in your heart. Hospitality is the combination of how you relate to others, how committed you are, and how you spend time with those around you. 
  • When you work with a variety of owners, you need to understand the heart and connection that each owner has. Some owners prioritize profits, while others prioritize service. Different requirements need different management styles. 
  • A merger of two companies takes work, but the most important work comes before the acquisition. Instead of assessing compatibility on economic plans alone, spend time making sure your cultures, values, and goals are in alignment. 
  • No matter what your business goals are, you can never let the focus come off of the people. People are the heart of your operation, and if you want to achieve success, you need to make sure your people are enabled for success. 
  • When a new opportunity arises, it’s usual to go out and find a new buyer to strike up a relationship with. However, if you present that opportunity to current clients instead, you shift from being a commodity to a true partner. 
  • Personal wellbeing programs are important to keep a company running smoothly, but the focus needs to be on all employees. It’s not enough for the C-suite to implement something they think works. You need proper feedback from ground level employees.

Quote of the Show:

  • “Hospitality is not hard, it’s heart.” - Chris Green

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Aligning With Client Expectations - Brent Hardy - Defining Hospitality - Episode #108 108 108 Aligning With Client Expectations - Brent Hardy - Defining Hospitality - Episode #108 full 17038ea9-a755-41b9-b53b-049ab8fe462b https://share.transistor.fm/s/2536b25f Our guest on Defining Hospitality this week is an architect with over 2 decades of experience designing spaces. He’s a renowned leader who thrives in the intersection of hospitality, real estate development and technology. Welcome to the show, President of The Hardy Group, Brent Hardy! Dan shares the mic with Brent to learn more about Brent’s background and how The Hardy Group has grown. In this episode, Brent shares strategies for balancing vision and budget, highlights the importance of effective communication, and looks towards the future of the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.
  • When working on a project, balancing vision with budget is a necessary aspect that takes planning. While making changes to your design is never the first plan, your team needs to be collaborative on making adjustments to fit budget constraints.  
  • When new clients enter the industry, they don’t fully understand the operational requirements or a property. When helping design new buildings, you’ll need to communicate the nuances of planning for operations.
  • As the industry matures, it’s more important than ever to have a plan for training your next generation. Build out opportunities for them to grow as professionals and to step into leadership roles.
  • When looking towards the future, companies with a strong foundation need to be focusing on expanding their vision. Find new entrances to the market, try new ideas, and identify missed opportunities from the company’s history.
  • When working with a client for the first time, they may have concerns. To instill confidence in your clients, you need to demonstrate both technical aptitude and a level of passion for what you do. Passion for your work is integral in building trust.
  • While clients don’t need to know every technical detail on a product, they do want to know you understand their concerns. By putting yourself in their shoes, and empathizing with their needs, you build a stronger relationship.

Quote of the Show:

  • “10 years from now, if we’re doing the exact same thing we’re doing now, we’ve made a mistake.” - Brent Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Our guest on Defining Hospitality this week is an architect with over 2 decades of experience designing spaces. He’s a renowned leader who thrives in the intersection of hospitality, real estate development and technology. Welcome to the show, President of The Hardy Group, Brent Hardy! Dan shares the mic with Brent to learn more about Brent’s background and how The Hardy Group has grown. In this episode, Brent shares strategies for balancing vision and budget, highlights the importance of effective communication, and looks towards the future of the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.
  • When working on a project, balancing vision with budget is a necessary aspect that takes planning. While making changes to your design is never the first plan, your team needs to be collaborative on making adjustments to fit budget constraints.  
  • When new clients enter the industry, they don’t fully understand the operational requirements or a property. When helping design new buildings, you’ll need to communicate the nuances of planning for operations.
  • As the industry matures, it’s more important than ever to have a plan for training your next generation. Build out opportunities for them to grow as professionals and to step into leadership roles.
  • When looking towards the future, companies with a strong foundation need to be focusing on expanding their vision. Find new entrances to the market, try new ideas, and identify missed opportunities from the company’s history.
  • When working with a client for the first time, they may have concerns. To instill confidence in your clients, you need to demonstrate both technical aptitude and a level of passion for what you do. Passion for your work is integral in building trust.
  • While clients don’t need to know every technical detail on a product, they do want to know you understand their concerns. By putting yourself in their shoes, and empathizing with their needs, you build a stronger relationship.

Quote of the Show:

  • “10 years from now, if we’re doing the exact same thing we’re doing now, we’ve made a mistake.” - Brent Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 31 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2827 Our guest on Defining Hospitality this week is an architect with over 2 decades of experience designing spaces. He’s a renowned leader who thrives in the intersection of hospitality, real estate development and technology. Welcome to the show, President of The Hardy Group, Brent Hardy! Dan shares the mic with Brent to learn more about Brent’s background and how The Hardy Group has grown. In this episode, Brent shares strategies for balancing vision and budget, highlights the importance of effective communication, and looks towards the future of the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Brent, hospitality is more than just a hotel building or an office space. Hospitality is about the interactions with people, and appreciating the moments throughout the whole experience.
  • When working on a project, balancing vision with budget is a necessary aspect that takes planning. While making changes to your design is never the first plan, your team needs to be collaborative on making adjustments to fit budget constraints.  
  • When new clients enter the industry, they don’t fully understand the operational requirements or a property. When helping design new buildings, you’ll need to communicate the nuances of planning for operations.
  • As the industry matures, it’s more important than ever to have a plan for training your next generation. Build out opportunities for them to grow as professionals and to step into leadership roles.
  • When looking towards the future, companies with a strong foundation need to be focusing on expanding their vision. Find new entrances to the market, try new ideas, and identify missed opportunities from the company’s history.
  • When working with a client for the first time, they may have concerns. To instill confidence in your clients, you need to demonstrate both technical aptitude and a level of passion for what you do. Passion for your work is integral in building trust.
  • While clients don’t need to know every technical detail on a product, they do want to know you understand their concerns. By putting yourself in their shoes, and empathizing with their needs, you build a stronger relationship.

Quote of the Show:

  • “10 years from now, if we’re doing the exact same thing we’re doing now, we’ve made a mistake.” - Brent Hardy

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Space, A Brand, An Experience - Amy Jakubowski - Defining Hospitality - Episode #107 107 107 A Space, A Brand, An Experience - Amy Jakubowski - Defining Hospitality - Episode #107 full 60873402-e394-4630-acaa-0dd73cbf13d6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ed2f9bc3 Joining us on this week’s episode is a talented and award winning  designer whose creativity defies the boundaries of the industry. She’s a frequent contributor to Hotel News Now and a recurring speaker at industry events who has been recognized as one of Hotel Management’s Top 30 Influential Women in Hospitality. Welcome to the show, Principal and Managing Director at Pierre-Yves Rochon, Amy Jakubowski! Amy sits down with boat Dan Ryan to discuss what it means to design spaces, the attributes of successful design teams, and what it means to understand the why. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Amy, hospitality is about creating, defining, and enriching the human experience. Every location has a unique culture, and good hospitality creates a human connection that highlights those attributes. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you need to be able to hustle. As a leader, you’ll find yourself having to manage people and address their needs, all while balancing the design work for your clients. Being able to adapt quickly is a necessary skill.
  • When designing across any medium, you need to understand the why. Why are you doing this, why are you doing it this way? You can’t challenge convention unless you understand why it was there in the first place. 
  • Designing a space goes beyond visual aesthetic, but to every element of the human experience. You need to consider elements like where luggage goes, how people move through the hallways, and the overall function of the space. 
  • When designing a space with a Michelin Star chef, you are not designing for them, you are designing an extension of them. You are creating the theater in which their dishes are presented, and all elements must reflect this. 
  • Creating a successful design team requires members with more than just a strong portfolio. Good team members are collaborative, have a positive outlook, and are helpful and encouraging. 
  • One application of design that is often scarce in hospitality is hospital design. To create more welcoming and healing spaces, hospital designers should work in tandem with hospitality designers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can’t challenge the system unless you know why it was there to begin with.” - Amy Jakubowski

Links:


Shout Outs:

08:10 - Julia Monk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-monk-faia-fiida-noma-2aa11711?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B8jYgH4ofSpi9Z%2BLl7kjATg%3D%3D 

08:28 - Hank Brennan

08:30 - Peter Gorman

08:31 - David Beer

16:26 - The George V Hotel

16:30 - The Ritz London

17:34 - The Jade Signature

20:05 - Boucheron

20:06 - Chopard

21:18 - The Inn At Little Washington

22:54 - Perkins&Will

26:22 - The Waldorf Astoria NYC

26:31 - The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Joining us on this week’s episode is a talented and award winning  designer whose creativity defies the boundaries of the industry. She’s a frequent contributor to Hotel News Now and a recurring speaker at industry events who has been recognized as one of Hotel Management’s Top 30 Influential Women in Hospitality. Welcome to the show, Principal and Managing Director at Pierre-Yves Rochon, Amy Jakubowski! Amy sits down with boat Dan Ryan to discuss what it means to design spaces, the attributes of successful design teams, and what it means to understand the why. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Amy, hospitality is about creating, defining, and enriching the human experience. Every location has a unique culture, and good hospitality creates a human connection that highlights those attributes. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you need to be able to hustle. As a leader, you’ll find yourself having to manage people and address their needs, all while balancing the design work for your clients. Being able to adapt quickly is a necessary skill.
  • When designing across any medium, you need to understand the why. Why are you doing this, why are you doing it this way? You can’t challenge convention unless you understand why it was there in the first place. 
  • Designing a space goes beyond visual aesthetic, but to every element of the human experience. You need to consider elements like where luggage goes, how people move through the hallways, and the overall function of the space. 
  • When designing a space with a Michelin Star chef, you are not designing for them, you are designing an extension of them. You are creating the theater in which their dishes are presented, and all elements must reflect this. 
  • Creating a successful design team requires members with more than just a strong portfolio. Good team members are collaborative, have a positive outlook, and are helpful and encouraging. 
  • One application of design that is often scarce in hospitality is hospital design. To create more welcoming and healing spaces, hospital designers should work in tandem with hospitality designers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can’t challenge the system unless you know why it was there to begin with.” - Amy Jakubowski

Links:


Shout Outs:

08:10 - Julia Monk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-monk-faia-fiida-noma-2aa11711?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B8jYgH4ofSpi9Z%2BLl7kjATg%3D%3D 

08:28 - Hank Brennan

08:30 - Peter Gorman

08:31 - David Beer

16:26 - The George V Hotel

16:30 - The Ritz London

17:34 - The Jade Signature

20:05 - Boucheron

20:06 - Chopard

21:18 - The Inn At Little Washington

22:54 - Perkins&Will

26:22 - The Waldorf Astoria NYC

26:31 - The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 24 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2227 Joining us on this week’s episode is a talented and award winning  designer whose creativity defies the boundaries of the industry. She’s a frequent contributor to Hotel News Now and a recurring speaker at industry events who has been recognized as one of Hotel Management’s Top 30 Influential Women in Hospitality. Welcome to the show, Principal and Managing Director at Pierre-Yves Rochon, Amy Jakubowski! Amy sits down with boat Dan Ryan to discuss what it means to design spaces, the attributes of successful design teams, and what it means to understand the why. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Amy, hospitality is about creating, defining, and enriching the human experience. Every location has a unique culture, and good hospitality creates a human connection that highlights those attributes. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you need to be able to hustle. As a leader, you’ll find yourself having to manage people and address their needs, all while balancing the design work for your clients. Being able to adapt quickly is a necessary skill.
  • When designing across any medium, you need to understand the why. Why are you doing this, why are you doing it this way? You can’t challenge convention unless you understand why it was there in the first place. 
  • Designing a space goes beyond visual aesthetic, but to every element of the human experience. You need to consider elements like where luggage goes, how people move through the hallways, and the overall function of the space. 
  • When designing a space with a Michelin Star chef, you are not designing for them, you are designing an extension of them. You are creating the theater in which their dishes are presented, and all elements must reflect this. 
  • Creating a successful design team requires members with more than just a strong portfolio. Good team members are collaborative, have a positive outlook, and are helpful and encouraging. 
  • One application of design that is often scarce in hospitality is hospital design. To create more welcoming and healing spaces, hospital designers should work in tandem with hospitality designers. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “You can’t challenge the system unless you know why it was there to begin with.” - Amy Jakubowski

Links:


Shout Outs:

08:10 - Julia Monk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-monk-faia-fiida-noma-2aa11711?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B8jYgH4ofSpi9Z%2BLl7kjATg%3D%3D 

08:28 - Hank Brennan

08:30 - Peter Gorman

08:31 - David Beer

16:26 - The George V Hotel

16:30 - The Ritz London

17:34 - The Jade Signature

20:05 - Boucheron

20:06 - Chopard

21:18 - The Inn At Little Washington

22:54 - Perkins&Will

26:22 - The Waldorf Astoria NYC

26:31 - The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Telling Authentic Stories - John Edelman - Defining Hospitality - Episode #106 106 106 Telling Authentic Stories - John Edelman - Defining Hospitality - Episode #106 full 88f689c0-4dd0-409f-bea6-007677eda8ea https://share.transistor.fm/s/67cecf44 Sitting down with us for this week's episode of Defining Hospitality is someone who is highly skilled in modern furniture, retail, and textiles. As the recipient of an honorary doctorate from the NY School of Interior Design, he is revamping the furniture design industry. Our guest this week is the Executive Chairman of Crypton Fabrics, Former CEO of Design Within Reach, and the President and CEO of Heller, John Edelman! Host Dan Ryan talks with John to dive into the intricacies of modern furniture design, the importance of telling an authentic story, and the main requirements when designing for the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For John, hospitality is how you would like to be treated as a guest in someone else's home. To put this in action, all guests at the stores he oversaw were given a water when they walked in as a welcome gift. 
  • Delivering good service goes beyond just creating a welcoming interaction, you need to apply that service to what the client really wants. You may have given them great service, but if it was service they didn’t want, you’ve only lengthened their journey.  
  • When you design an experience with furniture you need to tell an authentic story. Knowing the stories of the furniture and the way it’s presented reinforces the rest of the experience that has been created.  
  • If you can speak in superlatives and tell the truth, you’ve won. When building an authentic brand, start with a true statement, explain it, and be very honest about it. Once you’ve identified your statement, expand upon it. 
  • When designing furniture for the hospitality industry, there are three main requirements. Your product must have fantastic and fresh design, it must be in stock and readily available, and it needs a sustainability story. 
  • When designing furniture, you need to have a sustainability story. For Heller products there is a multi pronged approach. Their furniture is long lasting and 100% recyclable by design. Should you wish to part with your piece, they will take back and recycle it.
  • When implementing hospitality in a retail environment, encourage employees to ask questions to address customer needs. If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.” - John Edelman

Links:

Shout Outs:

00:32 - New York School of Interior Design

06:13 - Be Original Americas

08:00 - Aloft Hotels

10:23 - John McPhee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mcphee-a3a80418/ 

14:01 - John Edelman New York Times Article: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/design-within-reach-chris-hardy-slideshow 

25:12 - Hlynur Atlason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hlynur-atlason-4770a66/

32:00 - Savannah College of Art and Design

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Sitting down with us for this week's episode of Defining Hospitality is someone who is highly skilled in modern furniture, retail, and textiles. As the recipient of an honorary doctorate from the NY School of Interior Design, he is revamping the furniture design industry. Our guest this week is the Executive Chairman of Crypton Fabrics, Former CEO of Design Within Reach, and the President and CEO of Heller, John Edelman! Host Dan Ryan talks with John to dive into the intricacies of modern furniture design, the importance of telling an authentic story, and the main requirements when designing for the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For John, hospitality is how you would like to be treated as a guest in someone else's home. To put this in action, all guests at the stores he oversaw were given a water when they walked in as a welcome gift. 
  • Delivering good service goes beyond just creating a welcoming interaction, you need to apply that service to what the client really wants. You may have given them great service, but if it was service they didn’t want, you’ve only lengthened their journey.  
  • When you design an experience with furniture you need to tell an authentic story. Knowing the stories of the furniture and the way it’s presented reinforces the rest of the experience that has been created.  
  • If you can speak in superlatives and tell the truth, you’ve won. When building an authentic brand, start with a true statement, explain it, and be very honest about it. Once you’ve identified your statement, expand upon it. 
  • When designing furniture for the hospitality industry, there are three main requirements. Your product must have fantastic and fresh design, it must be in stock and readily available, and it needs a sustainability story. 
  • When designing furniture, you need to have a sustainability story. For Heller products there is a multi pronged approach. Their furniture is long lasting and 100% recyclable by design. Should you wish to part with your piece, they will take back and recycle it.
  • When implementing hospitality in a retail environment, encourage employees to ask questions to address customer needs. If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.” - John Edelman

Links:

Shout Outs:

00:32 - New York School of Interior Design

06:13 - Be Original Americas

08:00 - Aloft Hotels

10:23 - John McPhee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mcphee-a3a80418/ 

14:01 - John Edelman New York Times Article: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/design-within-reach-chris-hardy-slideshow 

25:12 - Hlynur Atlason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hlynur-atlason-4770a66/

32:00 - Savannah College of Art and Design

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2433 Sitting down with us for this week's episode of Defining Hospitality is someone who is highly skilled in modern furniture, retail, and textiles. As the recipient of an honorary doctorate from the NY School of Interior Design, he is revamping the furniture design industry. Our guest this week is the Executive Chairman of Crypton Fabrics, Former CEO of Design Within Reach, and the President and CEO of Heller, John Edelman! Host Dan Ryan talks with John to dive into the intricacies of modern furniture design, the importance of telling an authentic story, and the main requirements when designing for the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • For John, hospitality is how you would like to be treated as a guest in someone else's home. To put this in action, all guests at the stores he oversaw were given a water when they walked in as a welcome gift. 
  • Delivering good service goes beyond just creating a welcoming interaction, you need to apply that service to what the client really wants. You may have given them great service, but if it was service they didn’t want, you’ve only lengthened their journey.  
  • When you design an experience with furniture you need to tell an authentic story. Knowing the stories of the furniture and the way it’s presented reinforces the rest of the experience that has been created.  
  • If you can speak in superlatives and tell the truth, you’ve won. When building an authentic brand, start with a true statement, explain it, and be very honest about it. Once you’ve identified your statement, expand upon it. 
  • When designing furniture for the hospitality industry, there are three main requirements. Your product must have fantastic and fresh design, it must be in stock and readily available, and it needs a sustainability story. 
  • When designing furniture, you need to have a sustainability story. For Heller products there is a multi pronged approach. Their furniture is long lasting and 100% recyclable by design. Should you wish to part with your piece, they will take back and recycle it.
  • When implementing hospitality in a retail environment, encourage employees to ask questions to address customer needs. If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.

Quote of the Show:

  • “If you're practicing the concept of hospitality, you're never selling anything. You're defining a need and then servicing it.” - John Edelman

Links:

Shout Outs:

00:32 - New York School of Interior Design

06:13 - Be Original Americas

08:00 - Aloft Hotels

10:23 - John McPhee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mcphee-a3a80418/ 

14:01 - John Edelman New York Times Article: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/design-within-reach-chris-hardy-slideshow 

25:12 - Hlynur Atlason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hlynur-atlason-4770a66/

32:00 - Savannah College of Art and Design

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Putting Your Team First - Sarah Eustis - Defining Hospitality - Episode #105 105 105 Putting Your Team First - Sarah Eustis - Defining Hospitality - Episode #105 full d8025efd-78ac-448b-a790-70587b771602 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eeea9e05 While amenities play a role in satisfying customers, true hospitality grows from your team. Our guest this week is on a mission to build things that last, and create places with soul and purpose that leave lasting memories. She grew up in the hospitality industry and is responsible for some of the most iconic hotels in New England. Joining the show this week is Founder and CEO at Main Street Hospitality Group, Sarah Eustis! Host Dan Ryan interviews Sarah for a masterclass on creating memorable experiences where she shares how to empower your employees, creating consistent levels of hospitality, and how to go the extra mile to wow customers. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Sarah, hospitality means creating a sense of both belonging and connection. True hospitality comes not from complimentary breakfasts or high thread count sheets, but a feeling of welcome in your guests. 
  • Satisfaction can be hard to measure, but the most effective methods are reviews and return rates. A good review means a customer had a great experience, and a high return rate means they are choosing you over the numerous other options available. 
  • While you may offer hotels that vary in price point, that doesn’t mean they need to vary in the level of hospitality. A more expensive hotel may have more amenities, but the level of service, care, and hospitality the staff provide should be the same across the board. 
  • While a standard operating procedure is essential to running a business, it can create a rigid experience for guests. If you empower your staff, and allow them to break SOP without permission, they can create a better experience for your guests.
  • When amenities are unavailable to guests, using words like “unfortunately” focus the guest on the negative aspect of the service you are trying to provide. Instead, using the phrases like “I wish I could” make the guest feel like you are on their side. 
  • When assessing new business partners, they need to pass the like, trust, and respect filter. The deal may look good on paper, but if you and a potential client don’t like each other, trust each other, and respect each other, it won’t be fully beneficial. 
  • A truly luxurious experience revolves around personalized experiences. At the Canoe Place, rooms come set to the guests requested temperature, mini bars are pre stocked with their favorites, and turndowns are done to reflect the side of the bed they sleep on.

Quote of the Show:

  • “The hospitality isn't better or worse depending on the price or the level of luxury of a hotel.” - Sarah Eustis

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> While amenities play a role in satisfying customers, true hospitality grows from your team. Our guest this week is on a mission to build things that last, and create places with soul and purpose that leave lasting memories. She grew up in the hospitality industry and is responsible for some of the most iconic hotels in New England. Joining the show this week is Founder and CEO at Main Street Hospitality Group, Sarah Eustis! Host Dan Ryan interviews Sarah for a masterclass on creating memorable experiences where she shares how to empower your employees, creating consistent levels of hospitality, and how to go the extra mile to wow customers. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Sarah, hospitality means creating a sense of both belonging and connection. True hospitality comes not from complimentary breakfasts or high thread count sheets, but a feeling of welcome in your guests. 
  • Satisfaction can be hard to measure, but the most effective methods are reviews and return rates. A good review means a customer had a great experience, and a high return rate means they are choosing you over the numerous other options available. 
  • While you may offer hotels that vary in price point, that doesn’t mean they need to vary in the level of hospitality. A more expensive hotel may have more amenities, but the level of service, care, and hospitality the staff provide should be the same across the board. 
  • While a standard operating procedure is essential to running a business, it can create a rigid experience for guests. If you empower your staff, and allow them to break SOP without permission, they can create a better experience for your guests.
  • When amenities are unavailable to guests, using words like “unfortunately” focus the guest on the negative aspect of the service you are trying to provide. Instead, using the phrases like “I wish I could” make the guest feel like you are on their side. 
  • When assessing new business partners, they need to pass the like, trust, and respect filter. The deal may look good on paper, but if you and a potential client don’t like each other, trust each other, and respect each other, it won’t be fully beneficial. 
  • A truly luxurious experience revolves around personalized experiences. At the Canoe Place, rooms come set to the guests requested temperature, mini bars are pre stocked with their favorites, and turndowns are done to reflect the side of the bed they sleep on.

Quote of the Show:

  • “The hospitality isn't better or worse depending on the price or the level of luxury of a hotel.” - Sarah Eustis

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3599 While amenities play a role in satisfying customers, true hospitality grows from your team. Our guest this week is on a mission to build things that last, and create places with soul and purpose that leave lasting memories. She grew up in the hospitality industry and is responsible for some of the most iconic hotels in New England. Joining the show this week is Founder and CEO at Main Street Hospitality Group, Sarah Eustis! Host Dan Ryan interviews Sarah for a masterclass on creating memorable experiences where she shares how to empower your employees, creating consistent levels of hospitality, and how to go the extra mile to wow customers. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Sarah, hospitality means creating a sense of both belonging and connection. True hospitality comes not from complimentary breakfasts or high thread count sheets, but a feeling of welcome in your guests. 
  • Satisfaction can be hard to measure, but the most effective methods are reviews and return rates. A good review means a customer had a great experience, and a high return rate means they are choosing you over the numerous other options available. 
  • While you may offer hotels that vary in price point, that doesn’t mean they need to vary in the level of hospitality. A more expensive hotel may have more amenities, but the level of service, care, and hospitality the staff provide should be the same across the board. 
  • While a standard operating procedure is essential to running a business, it can create a rigid experience for guests. If you empower your staff, and allow them to break SOP without permission, they can create a better experience for your guests.
  • When amenities are unavailable to guests, using words like “unfortunately” focus the guest on the negative aspect of the service you are trying to provide. Instead, using the phrases like “I wish I could” make the guest feel like you are on their side. 
  • When assessing new business partners, they need to pass the like, trust, and respect filter. The deal may look good on paper, but if you and a potential client don’t like each other, trust each other, and respect each other, it won’t be fully beneficial. 
  • A truly luxurious experience revolves around personalized experiences. At the Canoe Place, rooms come set to the guests requested temperature, mini bars are pre stocked with their favorites, and turndowns are done to reflect the side of the bed they sleep on.

Quote of the Show:

  • “The hospitality isn't better or worse depending on the price or the level of luxury of a hotel.” - Sarah Eustis

Links:


Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan You’re Never Stuck In A Bucket - Molly McDonald - Defining Hospitality - Episode #104 104 104 You’re Never Stuck In A Bucket - Molly McDonald - Defining Hospitality - Episode #104 full 25ee52d4-d25b-4201-8b36-d983a6e13c61 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dad39741 Checking in for today’s episode of Defining Hospitality is a passionate member of the hospitality space who sees design through a unique lens. She’s a design maven who flawlessly utilizes her skills for business development. Joining us today is Associate, and Director of Business Development at Looney Associates, Molly McDonald. Molly joins host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Designer to Director, explore hospitality as a sense of community, and explain why you’re never stuck in one bucket in the industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • For Molly, her definition of hospitality has changed with her career. When she started, hospitality was a space she designed within. As her career progressed, hospitality began to evolve into a feeling of community, highlighting the importance of collaboration. 
  • As a young designer you may feel worried about getting stuck in one place for too long. You’re not limited to one path, but a change doesn’t need to come externally. If you vocalize your wants to your company, you can find a fulfilling change internally. 
  • Every client facing business relies on strong customer relationships, and hospitality is no different. In the hospitality design industry, client relationships can last up to 5 years, and you need to be prepared to work with that client for a long time frame. 
  • If you’re looking to get into business development, having a strong design background is crucial. To effectively sell, you need to know what you’re selling, and be able to speak to nuances in schedules, processes, vendors, and more. 
  • While there are many talented driven designers out there, there are only a handful of lead designer roles at firms. For designers looking for other high caliber roles, business development allows you to both utilize your design skills, and drive growth for your firm. 
  • While Revit and BIM may feel like overkill on some projects, they provide value in communicating ideas to clients. 3d renders give a better sense of the project to decision makers who aren’t familiar with reading floor plans. 
  • Hospitality design has gotten more and more intricate. More frequently, designers are interacting with architects at early stages, and providing the lens of hospitality to non-traditional projects like senior living facilities and social clubs. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I've always loved getting to know everybody and I didn't realize that I could turn that into my job.” - Molly McDonald


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Checking in for today’s episode of Defining Hospitality is a passionate member of the hospitality space who sees design through a unique lens. She’s a design maven who flawlessly utilizes her skills for business development. Joining us today is Associate, and Director of Business Development at Looney Associates, Molly McDonald. Molly joins host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Designer to Director, explore hospitality as a sense of community, and explain why you’re never stuck in one bucket in the industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • For Molly, her definition of hospitality has changed with her career. When she started, hospitality was a space she designed within. As her career progressed, hospitality began to evolve into a feeling of community, highlighting the importance of collaboration. 
  • As a young designer you may feel worried about getting stuck in one place for too long. You’re not limited to one path, but a change doesn’t need to come externally. If you vocalize your wants to your company, you can find a fulfilling change internally. 
  • Every client facing business relies on strong customer relationships, and hospitality is no different. In the hospitality design industry, client relationships can last up to 5 years, and you need to be prepared to work with that client for a long time frame. 
  • If you’re looking to get into business development, having a strong design background is crucial. To effectively sell, you need to know what you’re selling, and be able to speak to nuances in schedules, processes, vendors, and more. 
  • While there are many talented driven designers out there, there are only a handful of lead designer roles at firms. For designers looking for other high caliber roles, business development allows you to both utilize your design skills, and drive growth for your firm. 
  • While Revit and BIM may feel like overkill on some projects, they provide value in communicating ideas to clients. 3d renders give a better sense of the project to decision makers who aren’t familiar with reading floor plans. 
  • Hospitality design has gotten more and more intricate. More frequently, designers are interacting with architects at early stages, and providing the lens of hospitality to non-traditional projects like senior living facilities and social clubs. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I've always loved getting to know everybody and I didn't realize that I could turn that into my job.” - Molly McDonald


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2962 Checking in for today’s episode of Defining Hospitality is a passionate member of the hospitality space who sees design through a unique lens. She’s a design maven who flawlessly utilizes her skills for business development. Joining us today is Associate, and Director of Business Development at Looney Associates, Molly McDonald. Molly joins host Dan Ryan to share her journey from Designer to Director, explore hospitality as a sense of community, and explain why you’re never stuck in one bucket in the industry.  

Takeaways: 

  • For Molly, her definition of hospitality has changed with her career. When she started, hospitality was a space she designed within. As her career progressed, hospitality began to evolve into a feeling of community, highlighting the importance of collaboration. 
  • As a young designer you may feel worried about getting stuck in one place for too long. You’re not limited to one path, but a change doesn’t need to come externally. If you vocalize your wants to your company, you can find a fulfilling change internally. 
  • Every client facing business relies on strong customer relationships, and hospitality is no different. In the hospitality design industry, client relationships can last up to 5 years, and you need to be prepared to work with that client for a long time frame. 
  • If you’re looking to get into business development, having a strong design background is crucial. To effectively sell, you need to know what you’re selling, and be able to speak to nuances in schedules, processes, vendors, and more. 
  • While there are many talented driven designers out there, there are only a handful of lead designer roles at firms. For designers looking for other high caliber roles, business development allows you to both utilize your design skills, and drive growth for your firm. 
  • While Revit and BIM may feel like overkill on some projects, they provide value in communicating ideas to clients. 3d renders give a better sense of the project to decision makers who aren’t familiar with reading floor plans. 
  • Hospitality design has gotten more and more intricate. More frequently, designers are interacting with architects at early stages, and providing the lens of hospitality to non-traditional projects like senior living facilities and social clubs. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “I've always loved getting to know everybody and I didn't realize that I could turn that into my job.” - Molly McDonald


Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Compounding Family Business - Teague Hunter - Defining Hospitality - Episode #103 103 103 Compounding Family Business - Teague Hunter - Defining Hospitality - Episode #103 full 22be2a1b-758b-4d9d-8bec-d385e5905f1d https://share.transistor.fm/s/373983bf Today’s guest is an expert in the hospitality industry who has established his firm as the 3rd most successful US brokerage firm within the hospitality industry. He’s the host of the weekly series Teague Walks and Teague Talks where he focuses on outstanding properties and the people behind them. Joining the show this week is President & CEO at Hunter Hotel Advisors, Teague Hunter. Teague sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss how he got started in hospitality, the challenges of operating a hotel, and how Private Equity firms changed the hotel landscape.

Takeaways: 

  • Most people view hospitality either on the operations and service side, or the physical buildings side. For Teague, hospitality is a way of life. It’s what he was raised in, and is something he has built a life and career in. 
  • When Private Equity firms started investing in hospitality, it changed the landscape. To investment firms, properties became a number on a spreadsheet. Where PE firms faced their biggest challenge was understanding the operational nuances of hotels. 
  • As hotels have evolved to include rooftop bars, bistros, and restaurants, assessing value gets more complicated. However, by bundling those assets together, you can purchase them for a 6-7% cap rate, rather than a 10+% cap rate separately.  
  • Typical investment properties like office space or multifamily units offer fairly straight forward investments. Hotels offer more revenue, but require a higher level of operational talent. Good operators can make a hotel, while bad operators will break one. 
  • Hotels are not cookie cutter, and there is no reason their management should be either. Each hotel will have a regional aspect to it, and when looking to invest in a hotel, you need to pair with management that can support those attributes. 
  • While investors are responsible for managing the bottom line, success starts with your employees. Employees are your number one customer, and if you take care of your people first, it all trickles down after that. 
  • While Hunter Hotel Advisors has grown as a business, it remains a family business with a core focus on its people. Their culture of teamwork and open communication has fostered an environment of success. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We can speak to Wall Street, our DNA is in Main Street.” - Teague Hunter

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an expert in the hospitality industry who has established his firm as the 3rd most successful US brokerage firm within the hospitality industry. He’s the host of the weekly series Teague Walks and Teague Talks where he focuses on outstanding properties and the people behind them. Joining the show this week is President & CEO at Hunter Hotel Advisors, Teague Hunter. Teague sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss how he got started in hospitality, the challenges of operating a hotel, and how Private Equity firms changed the hotel landscape.

Takeaways: 

  • Most people view hospitality either on the operations and service side, or the physical buildings side. For Teague, hospitality is a way of life. It’s what he was raised in, and is something he has built a life and career in. 
  • When Private Equity firms started investing in hospitality, it changed the landscape. To investment firms, properties became a number on a spreadsheet. Where PE firms faced their biggest challenge was understanding the operational nuances of hotels. 
  • As hotels have evolved to include rooftop bars, bistros, and restaurants, assessing value gets more complicated. However, by bundling those assets together, you can purchase them for a 6-7% cap rate, rather than a 10+% cap rate separately.  
  • Typical investment properties like office space or multifamily units offer fairly straight forward investments. Hotels offer more revenue, but require a higher level of operational talent. Good operators can make a hotel, while bad operators will break one. 
  • Hotels are not cookie cutter, and there is no reason their management should be either. Each hotel will have a regional aspect to it, and when looking to invest in a hotel, you need to pair with management that can support those attributes. 
  • While investors are responsible for managing the bottom line, success starts with your employees. Employees are your number one customer, and if you take care of your people first, it all trickles down after that. 
  • While Hunter Hotel Advisors has grown as a business, it remains a family business with a core focus on its people. Their culture of teamwork and open communication has fostered an environment of success. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We can speak to Wall Street, our DNA is in Main Street.” - Teague Hunter

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2846 Today’s guest is an expert in the hospitality industry who has established his firm as the 3rd most successful US brokerage firm within the hospitality industry. He’s the host of the weekly series Teague Walks and Teague Talks where he focuses on outstanding properties and the people behind them. Joining the show this week is President & CEO at Hunter Hotel Advisors, Teague Hunter. Teague sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss how he got started in hospitality, the challenges of operating a hotel, and how Private Equity firms changed the hotel landscape.

Takeaways: 

  • Most people view hospitality either on the operations and service side, or the physical buildings side. For Teague, hospitality is a way of life. It’s what he was raised in, and is something he has built a life and career in. 
  • When Private Equity firms started investing in hospitality, it changed the landscape. To investment firms, properties became a number on a spreadsheet. Where PE firms faced their biggest challenge was understanding the operational nuances of hotels. 
  • As hotels have evolved to include rooftop bars, bistros, and restaurants, assessing value gets more complicated. However, by bundling those assets together, you can purchase them for a 6-7% cap rate, rather than a 10+% cap rate separately.  
  • Typical investment properties like office space or multifamily units offer fairly straight forward investments. Hotels offer more revenue, but require a higher level of operational talent. Good operators can make a hotel, while bad operators will break one. 
  • Hotels are not cookie cutter, and there is no reason their management should be either. Each hotel will have a regional aspect to it, and when looking to invest in a hotel, you need to pair with management that can support those attributes. 
  • While investors are responsible for managing the bottom line, success starts with your employees. Employees are your number one customer, and if you take care of your people first, it all trickles down after that. 
  • While Hunter Hotel Advisors has grown as a business, it remains a family business with a core focus on its people. Their culture of teamwork and open communication has fostered an environment of success. 

Quote of the Show:

  • “We can speak to Wall Street, our DNA is in Main Street.” - Teague Hunter

Links:

Shout Outs:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality Daily - Defining Hospitality - Episode #102 102 102 Hospitality Daily - Defining Hospitality - Episode #102 full 9f05bb34-675e-4b70-b47e-3f64ffd4b2e5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6bf57c03 On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share this compilation episode with recent interviews from Josiah’s podcast. The guests featured today are CEO & President of Four Sisters Inns Tamara Mims, General Manager at the Enso for Kimpton Hotels Marlon Smith, Founder of The June Britt Morgan-Saks, and VP of Strategic Growth at eBerry by Nordic Choice Hotels Christian Lundén. We hope you enjoy. 

Tamara Mims: “Don't nickel and dime your guests.”

Marlon Smith: “We are ambassadors.”

Britt Morgan-Saks: “Lessons for hospitality from NYC nightlife.”

Christian Lundén: “How we are providing hospitality outside the walls of our hotels.”

Josiah’s Links:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share this compilation episode with recent interviews from Josiah’s podcast. The guests featured today are CEO & President of Four Sisters Inns Tamara Mims, General Manager at the Enso for Kimpton Hotels Marlon Smith, Founder of The June Britt Morgan-Saks, and VP of Strategic Growth at eBerry by Nordic Choice Hotels Christian Lundén. We hope you enjoy. 

Tamara Mims: “Don't nickel and dime your guests.”

Marlon Smith: “We are ambassadors.”

Britt Morgan-Saks: “Lessons for hospitality from NYC nightlife.”

Christian Lundén: “How we are providing hospitality outside the walls of our hotels.”

Josiah’s Links:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 1659 On this episode of Defining Hospitality we’re shining a spotlight on the work of a previous guest and fellow hospitality podcaster. Josiah Mackenzie is the publisher of Hotel Operations, and the host and writer of the Hospitality Daily podcast and blog. We’re excited to share this compilation episode with recent interviews from Josiah’s podcast. The guests featured today are CEO & President of Four Sisters Inns Tamara Mims, General Manager at the Enso for Kimpton Hotels Marlon Smith, Founder of The June Britt Morgan-Saks, and VP of Strategic Growth at eBerry by Nordic Choice Hotels Christian Lundén. We hope you enjoy. 

Tamara Mims: “Don't nickel and dime your guests.”

Marlon Smith: “We are ambassadors.”

Britt Morgan-Saks: “Lessons for hospitality from NYC nightlife.”

Christian Lundén: “How we are providing hospitality outside the walls of our hotels.”

Josiah’s Links:

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Spirituality of Hospitality - Dupree Scovell - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 101 101 101 The Spirituality of Hospitality - Dupree Scovell - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 101 full 781cf7f4-425b-41e8-a0cf-a057601af460 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8d41049e Today’s guest is an innovative industry leader, who is responsible for leading Woodbine's investment strategy across all asset types. Please welcome to the show, Dupree Scovell! Dupree is the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Woodbine Development Corporation, and he joins the host Dan Ryan to share his view on hospitality and how his journey brought him to where he is now. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Dupree, hospitality comes from a deep spiritual state. It is something that can extend to everyone in every aspect of our lives. It’s not just something that you extend to someone staying in a guest room.
  • In any industry, you will never be able to go without some sort of conflict at some point. Even when that happens, it’s important to handle yourself by looking for common ground and make sure to avoid looking at it as a zero sum game.
  • There are 5 core values that Dupree’s company lives by; Relationships, Effort, Accountability, Conviction and Humility. At the end of the day, humility and relationships are the most important aspects for Dupree.
  • When looking ahead for your company, you want to consider what you are building for and what the ultimate goal is in the end. It’s not always about being the biggest company but sometimes it’s about enduring as a company.
  • If there is any sort of conflict within your company, you will end up going back to your values and those will help you determine the solution.
  • For the future, Dupree takes a methodical and intentional approach rather than letting what others are worrying about get to him and affect his view. 
  • If Dupree could go back in time to talk to his younger self, he would give him the advice that his identity isn’t just his grades or the sports he has played, but rather the person he is at his core. 

Quote of the Show:

2:39 “Hospitality is a deep spiritual value.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

06:27 Greg Massey
06:29 First United Bank
13:19 Hunt Companies
18:18 Trammell Crow
18:19 Bob Sulentic
18:26 CBRE
23:43 Hyatt
23:47 James Franque
27:35 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham
28:49 Paul Quinn College
28:57 Dr. Michael Sorrell
30:07 Dallas Independent School District
30:12 Hillcrest High School
31:19 Scovell Scholars


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an innovative industry leader, who is responsible for leading Woodbine's investment strategy across all asset types. Please welcome to the show, Dupree Scovell! Dupree is the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Woodbine Development Corporation, and he joins the host Dan Ryan to share his view on hospitality and how his journey brought him to where he is now. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Dupree, hospitality comes from a deep spiritual state. It is something that can extend to everyone in every aspect of our lives. It’s not just something that you extend to someone staying in a guest room.
  • In any industry, you will never be able to go without some sort of conflict at some point. Even when that happens, it’s important to handle yourself by looking for common ground and make sure to avoid looking at it as a zero sum game.
  • There are 5 core values that Dupree’s company lives by; Relationships, Effort, Accountability, Conviction and Humility. At the end of the day, humility and relationships are the most important aspects for Dupree.
  • When looking ahead for your company, you want to consider what you are building for and what the ultimate goal is in the end. It’s not always about being the biggest company but sometimes it’s about enduring as a company.
  • If there is any sort of conflict within your company, you will end up going back to your values and those will help you determine the solution.
  • For the future, Dupree takes a methodical and intentional approach rather than letting what others are worrying about get to him and affect his view. 
  • If Dupree could go back in time to talk to his younger self, he would give him the advice that his identity isn’t just his grades or the sports he has played, but rather the person he is at his core. 

Quote of the Show:

2:39 “Hospitality is a deep spiritual value.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

06:27 Greg Massey
06:29 First United Bank
13:19 Hunt Companies
18:18 Trammell Crow
18:19 Bob Sulentic
18:26 CBRE
23:43 Hyatt
23:47 James Franque
27:35 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham
28:49 Paul Quinn College
28:57 Dr. Michael Sorrell
30:07 Dallas Independent School District
30:12 Hillcrest High School
31:19 Scovell Scholars


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3401 Today’s guest is an innovative industry leader, who is responsible for leading Woodbine's investment strategy across all asset types. Please welcome to the show, Dupree Scovell! Dupree is the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Woodbine Development Corporation, and he joins the host Dan Ryan to share his view on hospitality and how his journey brought him to where he is now. 

Takeaways: 

  • For Dupree, hospitality comes from a deep spiritual state. It is something that can extend to everyone in every aspect of our lives. It’s not just something that you extend to someone staying in a guest room.
  • In any industry, you will never be able to go without some sort of conflict at some point. Even when that happens, it’s important to handle yourself by looking for common ground and make sure to avoid looking at it as a zero sum game.
  • There are 5 core values that Dupree’s company lives by; Relationships, Effort, Accountability, Conviction and Humility. At the end of the day, humility and relationships are the most important aspects for Dupree.
  • When looking ahead for your company, you want to consider what you are building for and what the ultimate goal is in the end. It’s not always about being the biggest company but sometimes it’s about enduring as a company.
  • If there is any sort of conflict within your company, you will end up going back to your values and those will help you determine the solution.
  • For the future, Dupree takes a methodical and intentional approach rather than letting what others are worrying about get to him and affect his view. 
  • If Dupree could go back in time to talk to his younger self, he would give him the advice that his identity isn’t just his grades or the sports he has played, but rather the person he is at his core. 

Quote of the Show:

2:39 “Hospitality is a deep spiritual value.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

06:27 Greg Massey
06:29 First United Bank
13:19 Hunt Companies
18:18 Trammell Crow
18:19 Bob Sulentic
18:26 CBRE
23:43 Hyatt
23:47 James Franque
27:35 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham
28:49 Paul Quinn College
28:57 Dr. Michael Sorrell
30:07 Dallas Independent School District
30:12 Hillcrest High School
31:19 Scovell Scholars


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Joie de Vivre - Chip Conley - Episode # 100 100 100 Joie de Vivre - Chip Conley - Episode # 100 full f1c76106-b183-477d-a36b-620341f83875 https://share.transistor.fm/s/67045a42 Today’s guest disrupted the hospitality industry twice, and he took an inner city motel and turned it into the 2nd largest boutique hotel brand in America. He was once the global head of hospitality at AirBnb. Please welcome to the show, Chip Conley! Chip is the Founder of the Modern Elder Academy and the Author of the book Emotional Equations. Chip has also received the Pioneer reward, the highest honor in hospitality. He joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the meaning of hospitality and how he sees it through his lens.

Takeaways: 

  • The core feeling of hospitality is having the feeling that something is delivered to you rather than for you. It’s a combination of the science of service and the art of hospitality.
  • Through Chip’s perspective, the saying isn’t “you are what you eat” but rather “you are where you sleep”. In thi case, you want to provide your guests with a great experience and comfortable and relaxing spot for them to sleep in.
  • When you look at your business from an outside perspective, you want to really think about how you are operating your business in a way that elevates you or differentiates you from the rest.
  • Rather than staking your claim on something others do and you claim you do it better, you should really focus on what makes you different from everyone else and maximize it.
  • When it comes to being a great leader, psychology can be one of the greatest strengths that you can have. 
  • Oftentimes, when people reach their midlife point they lose their purpose in life and what their goal is. Chip seeks to help people find the purpose that they once had and reinvigorate their life. 

Quote of the Show:


5:01 “Service is really a science, but hospitality is an art.” 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:43 The Hotel Phoenix

4:43 Danny Meyer

5:22 Hospitality Quotient

8:02 Rolling Stone Magazine

8:58 Hotel Vitale

9:08 Dwell Magazine

9:10 Real Simple Magazine

9:34 Ian Schrager

9:35 Kimpton

11:52 Peter Drucker

13:32 Brian Chesky

25:38 Hilton

25:39 Marriott

26:43 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

40:17 Andrew Alford

45:52 The Good Life by Dr. Bob Waldinger

50:36 American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird

50:43 Cormac McCarthy

56:28 10,000 Waves

1;01:50 Oscar Wilde

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest disrupted the hospitality industry twice, and he took an inner city motel and turned it into the 2nd largest boutique hotel brand in America. He was once the global head of hospitality at AirBnb. Please welcome to the show, Chip Conley! Chip is the Founder of the Modern Elder Academy and the Author of the book Emotional Equations. Chip has also received the Pioneer reward, the highest honor in hospitality. He joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the meaning of hospitality and how he sees it through his lens.

Takeaways: 

  • The core feeling of hospitality is having the feeling that something is delivered to you rather than for you. It’s a combination of the science of service and the art of hospitality.
  • Through Chip’s perspective, the saying isn’t “you are what you eat” but rather “you are where you sleep”. In thi case, you want to provide your guests with a great experience and comfortable and relaxing spot for them to sleep in.
  • When you look at your business from an outside perspective, you want to really think about how you are operating your business in a way that elevates you or differentiates you from the rest.
  • Rather than staking your claim on something others do and you claim you do it better, you should really focus on what makes you different from everyone else and maximize it.
  • When it comes to being a great leader, psychology can be one of the greatest strengths that you can have. 
  • Oftentimes, when people reach their midlife point they lose their purpose in life and what their goal is. Chip seeks to help people find the purpose that they once had and reinvigorate their life. 

Quote of the Show:


5:01 “Service is really a science, but hospitality is an art.” 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:43 The Hotel Phoenix

4:43 Danny Meyer

5:22 Hospitality Quotient

8:02 Rolling Stone Magazine

8:58 Hotel Vitale

9:08 Dwell Magazine

9:10 Real Simple Magazine

9:34 Ian Schrager

9:35 Kimpton

11:52 Peter Drucker

13:32 Brian Chesky

25:38 Hilton

25:39 Marriott

26:43 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

40:17 Andrew Alford

45:52 The Good Life by Dr. Bob Waldinger

50:36 American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird

50:43 Cormac McCarthy

56:28 10,000 Waves

1;01:50 Oscar Wilde

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3960 Today’s guest disrupted the hospitality industry twice, and he took an inner city motel and turned it into the 2nd largest boutique hotel brand in America. He was once the global head of hospitality at AirBnb. Please welcome to the show, Chip Conley! Chip is the Founder of the Modern Elder Academy and the Author of the book Emotional Equations. Chip has also received the Pioneer reward, the highest honor in hospitality. He joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the meaning of hospitality and how he sees it through his lens.

Takeaways: 

  • The core feeling of hospitality is having the feeling that something is delivered to you rather than for you. It’s a combination of the science of service and the art of hospitality.
  • Through Chip’s perspective, the saying isn’t “you are what you eat” but rather “you are where you sleep”. In thi case, you want to provide your guests with a great experience and comfortable and relaxing spot for them to sleep in.
  • When you look at your business from an outside perspective, you want to really think about how you are operating your business in a way that elevates you or differentiates you from the rest.
  • Rather than staking your claim on something others do and you claim you do it better, you should really focus on what makes you different from everyone else and maximize it.
  • When it comes to being a great leader, psychology can be one of the greatest strengths that you can have. 
  • Oftentimes, when people reach their midlife point they lose their purpose in life and what their goal is. Chip seeks to help people find the purpose that they once had and reinvigorate their life. 

Quote of the Show:


5:01 “Service is really a science, but hospitality is an art.” 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:43 The Hotel Phoenix

4:43 Danny Meyer

5:22 Hospitality Quotient

8:02 Rolling Stone Magazine

8:58 Hotel Vitale

9:08 Dwell Magazine

9:10 Real Simple Magazine

9:34 Ian Schrager

9:35 Kimpton

11:52 Peter Drucker

13:32 Brian Chesky

25:38 Hilton

25:39 Marriott

26:43 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

40:17 Andrew Alford

45:52 The Good Life by Dr. Bob Waldinger

50:36 American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird

50:43 Cormac McCarthy

56:28 10,000 Waves

1;01:50 Oscar Wilde

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality, Hospitality Design No Dan Ryan Hospitality with a Higher Purpose - Shannon Seay - Episode # 099 99 99 Hospitality with a Higher Purpose - Shannon Seay - Episode # 099 full cc9b4d89-c56b-43c0-af31-3bcf362d1e2c https://share.transistor.fm/s/3552c8a7 Today’s guest is passionate about travel, art, history, and horseback riding. She authored her masters thesis toward a study of the intersection of advocacy, historic preservation, and architecture and has completed hotel renovations nationwide from conception through close-out. Please welcome to the show, Shannon Seay! Shannon is the Partner and Project Director at H-CPM, and the founder of an industry Networking Collective. Shannon joins the host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • The core idea of hospitality is about crafting a community that is inclusive where people are excited to take part in it. It is the difference between place making and space making.
  • Every single thing in each of our lives has helped us to develop the perspective that we hold, and it’s the job of the professionals in the hospitality industry to put that together.
  • When someone is staying at any place that is in the realm of the hospitality industry (hostel, hotel, motel), they are home away from and finding a place to rest.
  • Rest necessitates comfort, and you can’t truly be comfortable if you are in a place that doesn’t speak to you.
  • A successful team isn’t a team that has no problems, but rather a team that solves its problems efficiently, coherently and in a professional manner. This applies to all industries as this will make a team act as a better unit.
  • Core values for your company aren’t something that are just written up and put on a piece of paper or a website to get a new deal. They are values that each and every team member really needs to embody and represent.
  • Everything comes down to a collaborative discussion. When it comes to the custom design space, there are a lot of different people that are involved in that aspect so it’s important to get everyone on the same page, even if that means compromising somewhere.

Quote of the Show:


1:54 “To me, hospitality is placemaking.”


Links:

Shout Outs:

4:42 Hersha Hospitality Management

6:56 Radio Kismet

6:58 University of Pennsylvania Law School

11:31 Damon Lawrence

11:32 Homage

14:16 ILC 

14:50 Andrew Benioff

19:23 Justin Chace

19:39 Steve Siegel

24:57 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

25:02 Ani DiFranco

26:27 Daniel del Olmo 

26:29 Sage

27:15 Will Guidara 

34:59 The Irish Cottage Inn

37:35 1 Hotel

39:13 Good Shepherd

41:05 Chip Conley

41:08 Modern Elder Academy


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is passionate about travel, art, history, and horseback riding. She authored her masters thesis toward a study of the intersection of advocacy, historic preservation, and architecture and has completed hotel renovations nationwide from conception through close-out. Please welcome to the show, Shannon Seay! Shannon is the Partner and Project Director at H-CPM, and the founder of an industry Networking Collective. Shannon joins the host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • The core idea of hospitality is about crafting a community that is inclusive where people are excited to take part in it. It is the difference between place making and space making.
  • Every single thing in each of our lives has helped us to develop the perspective that we hold, and it’s the job of the professionals in the hospitality industry to put that together.
  • When someone is staying at any place that is in the realm of the hospitality industry (hostel, hotel, motel), they are home away from and finding a place to rest.
  • Rest necessitates comfort, and you can’t truly be comfortable if you are in a place that doesn’t speak to you.
  • A successful team isn’t a team that has no problems, but rather a team that solves its problems efficiently, coherently and in a professional manner. This applies to all industries as this will make a team act as a better unit.
  • Core values for your company aren’t something that are just written up and put on a piece of paper or a website to get a new deal. They are values that each and every team member really needs to embody and represent.
  • Everything comes down to a collaborative discussion. When it comes to the custom design space, there are a lot of different people that are involved in that aspect so it’s important to get everyone on the same page, even if that means compromising somewhere.

Quote of the Show:


1:54 “To me, hospitality is placemaking.”


Links:

Shout Outs:

4:42 Hersha Hospitality Management

6:56 Radio Kismet

6:58 University of Pennsylvania Law School

11:31 Damon Lawrence

11:32 Homage

14:16 ILC 

14:50 Andrew Benioff

19:23 Justin Chace

19:39 Steve Siegel

24:57 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

25:02 Ani DiFranco

26:27 Daniel del Olmo 

26:29 Sage

27:15 Will Guidara 

34:59 The Irish Cottage Inn

37:35 1 Hotel

39:13 Good Shepherd

41:05 Chip Conley

41:08 Modern Elder Academy


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 2891 Today’s guest is passionate about travel, art, history, and horseback riding. She authored her masters thesis toward a study of the intersection of advocacy, historic preservation, and architecture and has completed hotel renovations nationwide from conception through close-out. Please welcome to the show, Shannon Seay! Shannon is the Partner and Project Director at H-CPM, and the founder of an industry Networking Collective. Shannon joins the host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on the hospitality industry. 

Takeaways: 

  • The core idea of hospitality is about crafting a community that is inclusive where people are excited to take part in it. It is the difference between place making and space making.
  • Every single thing in each of our lives has helped us to develop the perspective that we hold, and it’s the job of the professionals in the hospitality industry to put that together.
  • When someone is staying at any place that is in the realm of the hospitality industry (hostel, hotel, motel), they are home away from and finding a place to rest.
  • Rest necessitates comfort, and you can’t truly be comfortable if you are in a place that doesn’t speak to you.
  • A successful team isn’t a team that has no problems, but rather a team that solves its problems efficiently, coherently and in a professional manner. This applies to all industries as this will make a team act as a better unit.
  • Core values for your company aren’t something that are just written up and put on a piece of paper or a website to get a new deal. They are values that each and every team member really needs to embody and represent.
  • Everything comes down to a collaborative discussion. When it comes to the custom design space, there are a lot of different people that are involved in that aspect so it’s important to get everyone on the same page, even if that means compromising somewhere.

Quote of the Show:


1:54 “To me, hospitality is placemaking.”


Links:

Shout Outs:

4:42 Hersha Hospitality Management

6:56 Radio Kismet

6:58 University of Pennsylvania Law School

11:31 Damon Lawrence

11:32 Homage

14:16 ILC 

14:50 Andrew Benioff

19:23 Justin Chace

19:39 Steve Siegel

24:57 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

25:02 Ani DiFranco

26:27 Daniel del Olmo 

26:29 Sage

27:15 Will Guidara 

34:59 The Irish Cottage Inn

37:35 1 Hotel

39:13 Good Shepherd

41:05 Chip Conley

41:08 Modern Elder Academy


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality, Hospitality Design No Dan Ryan A Sense of Found - Dan Mazzarini - Episode # 098 98 98 A Sense of Found - Dan Mazzarini - Episode # 098 full 58a42059-a149-4e39-985f-647fa2afa96a https://share.transistor.fm/s/f9fa5056 Today’s guest uses the spaces he creates to tell a story, all while re-imagining the visual landscape through stylish, spirited and sophisticated design. Currently, he is working on a diverse array of residential and commercial projects, including high profile hotels, restaurants, and retail. Please welcome to the show, Dan Mazzarini! Dan is the Owner and Creative Director at BHDM Design. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and what it means to him. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to two key components; Anticipating the guests needs and exceeding their expectations. Without these being in place then it is not true hospitality you are delivering.
  • The longer that Dan has spent in the design field, the more he has realized that it is more of a service field. It’s all about the end user and the notion of trying to meet their needs while going above and beyond what they expect. 
  • While working at Ralph Lauren, Dan spent time helping people with their apartments on the weekends. During this time he discovered that not only does he like retail, but he was also enjoying the relationships with personal clients. 
  • One thing that holds people back from following their dreams is their fear. But if you think about the worst case scenario for starting your own business, it’s worth the risk to try and venture out on your own.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for the better option or to underscore the importance or value of something that is authentic. This will help set you apart from the rest of the designers as no two people will have the same idea of authentic design.
  • It’s important to evolve your business as time goes on. Don’t be afraid to take a chance and work on a project that is unfamiliar to you as it can help you grow in a tremendous way.
  • Designers for hospitality are in the business of building spaces for people to come together and experience the physical environments around them.

Quote of the Show:


3:19 “I think [hospitality] is really about two small things. One is anticipating needs and the second is exceeding expectations.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

1:21 The Virgin hotel

1:22 Ritz Carlton

1:34 Eventi Hotel

5:51 Ralph Lauren

6:32 Kramer Design

6:35 Robin Kramer

6:35 Philip Rosenswag

7:30 Michael Kors

7:47 Macy’s

7:48 Bloomingdale’s

10:05 Jennifer Lopez

10:06 Water Work Studio

10:10 Movado Watches

10:12 Shiseido Cosmetics

13:20 Trading Spaces

13:24 HGTV

13:47 The Lion

15:43 Lord’s South Beach

20:43 Brimfield Flea Market

23:14 Wheel of Fortune

42:19 the Brian Paul Hotel

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest uses the spaces he creates to tell a story, all while re-imagining the visual landscape through stylish, spirited and sophisticated design. Currently, he is working on a diverse array of residential and commercial projects, including high profile hotels, restaurants, and retail. Please welcome to the show, Dan Mazzarini! Dan is the Owner and Creative Director at BHDM Design. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and what it means to him. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to two key components; Anticipating the guests needs and exceeding their expectations. Without these being in place then it is not true hospitality you are delivering.
  • The longer that Dan has spent in the design field, the more he has realized that it is more of a service field. It’s all about the end user and the notion of trying to meet their needs while going above and beyond what they expect. 
  • While working at Ralph Lauren, Dan spent time helping people with their apartments on the weekends. During this time he discovered that not only does he like retail, but he was also enjoying the relationships with personal clients. 
  • One thing that holds people back from following their dreams is their fear. But if you think about the worst case scenario for starting your own business, it’s worth the risk to try and venture out on your own.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for the better option or to underscore the importance or value of something that is authentic. This will help set you apart from the rest of the designers as no two people will have the same idea of authentic design.
  • It’s important to evolve your business as time goes on. Don’t be afraid to take a chance and work on a project that is unfamiliar to you as it can help you grow in a tremendous way.
  • Designers for hospitality are in the business of building spaces for people to come together and experience the physical environments around them.

Quote of the Show:


3:19 “I think [hospitality] is really about two small things. One is anticipating needs and the second is exceeding expectations.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

1:21 The Virgin hotel

1:22 Ritz Carlton

1:34 Eventi Hotel

5:51 Ralph Lauren

6:32 Kramer Design

6:35 Robin Kramer

6:35 Philip Rosenswag

7:30 Michael Kors

7:47 Macy’s

7:48 Bloomingdale’s

10:05 Jennifer Lopez

10:06 Water Work Studio

10:10 Movado Watches

10:12 Shiseido Cosmetics

13:20 Trading Spaces

13:24 HGTV

13:47 The Lion

15:43 Lord’s South Beach

20:43 Brimfield Flea Market

23:14 Wheel of Fortune

42:19 the Brian Paul Hotel

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3264 Today’s guest uses the spaces he creates to tell a story, all while re-imagining the visual landscape through stylish, spirited and sophisticated design. Currently, he is working on a diverse array of residential and commercial projects, including high profile hotels, restaurants, and retail. Please welcome to the show, Dan Mazzarini! Dan is the Owner and Creative Director at BHDM Design. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and what it means to him. 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to two key components; Anticipating the guests needs and exceeding their expectations. Without these being in place then it is not true hospitality you are delivering.
  • The longer that Dan has spent in the design field, the more he has realized that it is more of a service field. It’s all about the end user and the notion of trying to meet their needs while going above and beyond what they expect. 
  • While working at Ralph Lauren, Dan spent time helping people with their apartments on the weekends. During this time he discovered that not only does he like retail, but he was also enjoying the relationships with personal clients. 
  • One thing that holds people back from following their dreams is their fear. But if you think about the worst case scenario for starting your own business, it’s worth the risk to try and venture out on your own.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for the better option or to underscore the importance or value of something that is authentic. This will help set you apart from the rest of the designers as no two people will have the same idea of authentic design.
  • It’s important to evolve your business as time goes on. Don’t be afraid to take a chance and work on a project that is unfamiliar to you as it can help you grow in a tremendous way.
  • Designers for hospitality are in the business of building spaces for people to come together and experience the physical environments around them.

Quote of the Show:


3:19 “I think [hospitality] is really about two small things. One is anticipating needs and the second is exceeding expectations.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

1:21 The Virgin hotel

1:22 Ritz Carlton

1:34 Eventi Hotel

5:51 Ralph Lauren

6:32 Kramer Design

6:35 Robin Kramer

6:35 Philip Rosenswag

7:30 Michael Kors

7:47 Macy’s

7:48 Bloomingdale’s

10:05 Jennifer Lopez

10:06 Water Work Studio

10:10 Movado Watches

10:12 Shiseido Cosmetics

13:20 Trading Spaces

13:24 HGTV

13:47 The Lion

15:43 Lord’s South Beach

20:43 Brimfield Flea Market

23:14 Wheel of Fortune

42:19 the Brian Paul Hotel

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Hospitality No Dan Ryan An Ever Evolving Industry - Christina Zimmer - Episode # 097 97 97 An Ever Evolving Industry - Christina Zimmer - Episode # 097 full 443f24b3-1daa-4e6f-b99a-44f7ea1e580f https://share.transistor.fm/s/221b05db Today’s guest is a valued member of the hospitality community with over 30 years of experience. She consistently composes and collaborates with world-class teams of architects and designers to execute unique and innovative hotel concepts. Please welcome to the show, Christina Zimmer. Christina is the Senior Vice President of Design at Highgate Hotels, and she joins the host Dan Ryan to share her views on hospitality and how it interacts with the world around us.

Takeaways: 

  • According to the original definition from Webster’s dictionary, hospitality has always been about the experiences that you can give guests rather than the actual location or the food you provide them with.
  • Every now and then, it’s nice to get outside of your own environment and try working on different kinds of projects. It’s like a breath of fresh air and helps you to gain a new perspective on future projects you will have.
  • Culture plays an important role in hospitality. When you go to a unique place or another country, you can immerse yourself in the culture and really experience the place you are at.
  • The most fond memory that Christina has of her trip to Europe was her visit to the Louisiana Museum in Denmark. She holds this memory close to her because she went to that museum with her mother.
  • We all stand on the shoulders of those who have helped us reach our goals and be where we are today. It’s important to acknowledge this and respect those around you and be a positive leader yourself.
  • There is a certain sensibility to Danish design that permeates the entire Danish society, and this helped to lead Christina to discover her passion at an early age.
  • An interesting challenge facing hospitality now is how can you make furniture and design more sustainable for a modern age, while also being comfortable and welcoming.

Quote of the Show:


2:06 “It's not about just giving you a place to sleep and some food to eat. It's about much more than that. The original definition did come from the experiences that you would give to a guest. So it's much deeper than just meeting the basic needs.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

7:17 Stonehill Taylor

14:17 Guggenheim

22:05 Turner

22:58 Louisiana Museum in Denmark

27:16 Paul Taylor

34:39 Refinery Hotel in New York

39:19 Tales of the City by 

40:46 Waiting for Guffman

41:35 Park Central San Francisco

41:38 Hyatt

42:28 Berman Faulk

46:55 Kimpton

47:05 MC Escher

52:41 Hilton 

52:41 Marriott

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a valued member of the hospitality community with over 30 years of experience. She consistently composes and collaborates with world-class teams of architects and designers to execute unique and innovative hotel concepts. Please welcome to the show, Christina Zimmer. Christina is the Senior Vice President of Design at Highgate Hotels, and she joins the host Dan Ryan to share her views on hospitality and how it interacts with the world around us.

Takeaways: 

  • According to the original definition from Webster’s dictionary, hospitality has always been about the experiences that you can give guests rather than the actual location or the food you provide them with.
  • Every now and then, it’s nice to get outside of your own environment and try working on different kinds of projects. It’s like a breath of fresh air and helps you to gain a new perspective on future projects you will have.
  • Culture plays an important role in hospitality. When you go to a unique place or another country, you can immerse yourself in the culture and really experience the place you are at.
  • The most fond memory that Christina has of her trip to Europe was her visit to the Louisiana Museum in Denmark. She holds this memory close to her because she went to that museum with her mother.
  • We all stand on the shoulders of those who have helped us reach our goals and be where we are today. It’s important to acknowledge this and respect those around you and be a positive leader yourself.
  • There is a certain sensibility to Danish design that permeates the entire Danish society, and this helped to lead Christina to discover her passion at an early age.
  • An interesting challenge facing hospitality now is how can you make furniture and design more sustainable for a modern age, while also being comfortable and welcoming.

Quote of the Show:


2:06 “It's not about just giving you a place to sleep and some food to eat. It's about much more than that. The original definition did come from the experiences that you would give to a guest. So it's much deeper than just meeting the basic needs.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

7:17 Stonehill Taylor

14:17 Guggenheim

22:05 Turner

22:58 Louisiana Museum in Denmark

27:16 Paul Taylor

34:39 Refinery Hotel in New York

39:19 Tales of the City by 

40:46 Waiting for Guffman

41:35 Park Central San Francisco

41:38 Hyatt

42:28 Berman Faulk

46:55 Kimpton

47:05 MC Escher

52:41 Hilton 

52:41 Marriott

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3537 Today’s guest is a valued member of the hospitality community with over 30 years of experience. She consistently composes and collaborates with world-class teams of architects and designers to execute unique and innovative hotel concepts. Please welcome to the show, Christina Zimmer. Christina is the Senior Vice President of Design at Highgate Hotels, and she joins the host Dan Ryan to share her views on hospitality and how it interacts with the world around us.

Takeaways: 

  • According to the original definition from Webster’s dictionary, hospitality has always been about the experiences that you can give guests rather than the actual location or the food you provide them with.
  • Every now and then, it’s nice to get outside of your own environment and try working on different kinds of projects. It’s like a breath of fresh air and helps you to gain a new perspective on future projects you will have.
  • Culture plays an important role in hospitality. When you go to a unique place or another country, you can immerse yourself in the culture and really experience the place you are at.
  • The most fond memory that Christina has of her trip to Europe was her visit to the Louisiana Museum in Denmark. She holds this memory close to her because she went to that museum with her mother.
  • We all stand on the shoulders of those who have helped us reach our goals and be where we are today. It’s important to acknowledge this and respect those around you and be a positive leader yourself.
  • There is a certain sensibility to Danish design that permeates the entire Danish society, and this helped to lead Christina to discover her passion at an early age.
  • An interesting challenge facing hospitality now is how can you make furniture and design more sustainable for a modern age, while also being comfortable and welcoming.

Quote of the Show:


2:06 “It's not about just giving you a place to sleep and some food to eat. It's about much more than that. The original definition did come from the experiences that you would give to a guest. So it's much deeper than just meeting the basic needs.”

Links:

Shout Outs:

7:17 Stonehill Taylor

14:17 Guggenheim

22:05 Turner

22:58 Louisiana Museum in Denmark

27:16 Paul Taylor

34:39 Refinery Hotel in New York

39:19 Tales of the City by 

40:46 Waiting for Guffman

41:35 Park Central San Francisco

41:38 Hyatt

42:28 Berman Faulk

46:55 Kimpton

47:05 MC Escher

52:41 Hilton 

52:41 Marriott

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality, design, hospitality design No Dan Ryan Creating Welcoming Experiences - Gray Davis - Episode # 096 96 96 Creating Welcoming Experiences - Gray Davis - Episode # 096 full 1bf27340-58fb-4ddf-916f-66e54a3a3f03 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b39c9460 Today’s guest is a 2022 Inductee into Interior Design Hall Of Fame,and he approaches design with 5 key elements; sustainability, technology, the client, timelessness and innovation. He pushes beyond the familiar to create buildings and interiors that are distinctive, imaginative and site specific. Please welcome to the show, Gray Davis! Gray is the Co-Owner & Co-Founder of Meyer Davis, Designer. Gray joins the host Dan Ryan to share his inspirations from the hospitality world and how he journeyed his way through this beautiful industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about the experiences for the guest. It allows the owner or operator of the hotel to be a storyteller and provide the guest with a unique experience that they won’t be able to receive elsewhere.
  • When you are designing a hotel, you want to make sure that it is a welcoming environment to the guest, and the best way to do this is by being a good listener. Think about the goals the brand or the client wants to achieve and use it as a guide. 
  • Typically, design firms are focused on one area but you can learn from every project you work on. This prevents people from being pigeonholed and allows a designer to see all the perspectives on different projects. 
  • If Gray could go back and see his younger self, the biggest piece of advice he would offer is to follow your passion. Through all the struggles that he faced, he wouldn’t change anything for the outcome he got.
  • At the end of the day, the design for a hotel should be something that puts a smile on someone’s face  or shines a light on something that they never knew or thought before. 
  • A great idea can come from anywhere and anyone on the team. It doesn’t matter what role they play, whoever has the best idea is the one that you should run with.

Quote of the Show:


3:24 “There's nothing more rewarding than completing a project, a hotel or resort, somewhere and then seeing how people experience it and react to it.”

Links:


Shout Outs:


1:21 Will Meyer

1:26 Cindy Allen

1:27 Interior Design Magazine

7:41 Dream Hotel in Nashville

9:34 W Hotels

10:25 Marriott

15:18 Randy Gerber 

15:20 Cindy Crawford

21:11 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

28:53 Stacy Shoemaker

28:59 Nick Jones

29:01 SoHo House

33:56 David Brawley

34:40 John Saladino

35:03 Four Seasons

35:43 Guacame Siegel

35:50 Aero

35:50 Bill Sofield

35:51 Thomas O’Brien

36:34 Raul’s in SoHo

41:53 Red Sea Development Company


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a 2022 Inductee into Interior Design Hall Of Fame,and he approaches design with 5 key elements; sustainability, technology, the client, timelessness and innovation. He pushes beyond the familiar to create buildings and interiors that are distinctive, imaginative and site specific. Please welcome to the show, Gray Davis! Gray is the Co-Owner & Co-Founder of Meyer Davis, Designer. Gray joins the host Dan Ryan to share his inspirations from the hospitality world and how he journeyed his way through this beautiful industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about the experiences for the guest. It allows the owner or operator of the hotel to be a storyteller and provide the guest with a unique experience that they won’t be able to receive elsewhere.
  • When you are designing a hotel, you want to make sure that it is a welcoming environment to the guest, and the best way to do this is by being a good listener. Think about the goals the brand or the client wants to achieve and use it as a guide. 
  • Typically, design firms are focused on one area but you can learn from every project you work on. This prevents people from being pigeonholed and allows a designer to see all the perspectives on different projects. 
  • If Gray could go back and see his younger self, the biggest piece of advice he would offer is to follow your passion. Through all the struggles that he faced, he wouldn’t change anything for the outcome he got.
  • At the end of the day, the design for a hotel should be something that puts a smile on someone’s face  or shines a light on something that they never knew or thought before. 
  • A great idea can come from anywhere and anyone on the team. It doesn’t matter what role they play, whoever has the best idea is the one that you should run with.

Quote of the Show:


3:24 “There's nothing more rewarding than completing a project, a hotel or resort, somewhere and then seeing how people experience it and react to it.”

Links:


Shout Outs:


1:21 Will Meyer

1:26 Cindy Allen

1:27 Interior Design Magazine

7:41 Dream Hotel in Nashville

9:34 W Hotels

10:25 Marriott

15:18 Randy Gerber 

15:20 Cindy Crawford

21:11 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

28:53 Stacy Shoemaker

28:59 Nick Jones

29:01 SoHo House

33:56 David Brawley

34:40 John Saladino

35:03 Four Seasons

35:43 Guacame Siegel

35:50 Aero

35:50 Bill Sofield

35:51 Thomas O’Brien

36:34 Raul’s in SoHo

41:53 Red Sea Development Company


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500 Dan Ryan Dan Ryan 3017 Today’s guest is a 2022 Inductee into Interior Design Hall Of Fame,and he approaches design with 5 key elements; sustainability, technology, the client, timelessness and innovation. He pushes beyond the familiar to create buildings and interiors that are distinctive, imaginative and site specific. Please welcome to the show, Gray Davis! Gray is the Co-Owner & Co-Founder of Meyer Davis, Designer. Gray joins the host Dan Ryan to share his inspirations from the hospitality world and how he journeyed his way through this beautiful industry.

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about the experiences for the guest. It allows the owner or operator of the hotel to be a storyteller and provide the guest with a unique experience that they won’t be able to receive elsewhere.
  • When you are designing a hotel, you want to make sure that it is a welcoming environment to the guest, and the best way to do this is by being a good listener. Think about the goals the brand or the client wants to achieve and use it as a guide. 
  • Typically, design firms are focused on one area but you can learn from every project you work on. This prevents people from being pigeonholed and allows a designer to see all the perspectives on different projects. 
  • If Gray could go back and see his younger self, the biggest piece of advice he would offer is to follow your passion. Through all the struggles that he faced, he wouldn’t change anything for the outcome he got.
  • At the end of the day, the design for a hotel should be something that puts a smile on someone’s face  or shines a light on something that they never knew or thought before. 
  • A great idea can come from anywhere and anyone on the team. It doesn’t matter what role they play, whoever has the best idea is the one that you should run with.

Quote of the Show:


3:24 “There's nothing more rewarding than completing a project, a hotel or resort, somewhere and then seeing how people experience it and react to it.”

Links:


Shout Outs:


1:21 Will Meyer

1:26 Cindy Allen

1:27 Interior Design Magazine

7:41 Dream Hotel in Nashville

9:34 W Hotels

10:25 Marriott

15:18 Randy Gerber 

15:20 Cindy Crawford

21:11 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

28:53 Stacy Shoemaker

28:59 Nick Jones

29:01 SoHo House

33:56 David Brawley

34:40 John Saladino

35:03 Four Seasons

35:43 Guacame Siegel

35:50 Aero

35:50 Bill Sofield

35:51 Thomas O’Brien

36:34 Raul’s in SoHo

41:53 Red Sea Development Company


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Delivering Way Above Expectations - Scott Lee - Episode # 095 95 95 Delivering Way Above Expectations - Scott Lee - Episode # 095 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/16446f20-1ab9-32b7-9c8e-89b9763bf416 https://share.transistor.fm/s/525b3744 Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and opportunist at heart. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has discovered his favorite part is “wowing” his clients. Please welcome to the show, Scott Lee! Scott is the President and Principal at SB Architects. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his experiences from working on the architecture of a prison to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality at its core is about truly experiencing the place you are staying at. Whether it’s going away on vacation or visiting a familiar place, a great hospitality experience is defined by coming home and sharing stories of what you experienced while away.
  • When you are looking to add people to your design firm, you want to strike the balance of getting like minded individuals as well as getting people that will help push the envelope in a positive way. 
  • Hiring people that are a cultural fit for your firm is a key component of doing interviews. If they aren’t a cultural fit, then don’t waste time looking at their drawings or design ideas as it will never work out right.
  • One way to keep employees motivated and committed to your company is to sell them a piece of the company. This way they behave like owners and take more responsibility and they will feel a sense of ownership and pride as the company grows.
  • New ideas can come from anybody at a company. There is no such thing as bad ideas so it’s a good idea to make your company feel like it’s an open environment where everyone is allowed to speak up and share ideas.
  • Some people consider luxury to be crown moldings or marble on marble or other extravagant trappings, but there is more of a shift over to focusing on the quality of the luxury you are receiving rather than the quantity of it.
  • Scott’s biggest advice to his younger self is to take risks and don’t be afraid to try something new. If you are waiting for that perfect time it might never come and life will pass you by, so jump in and take a chance. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I think hospitality is going to a place and experiencing the place.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:51 David Kennedy

3:31 Hill Glazier Architects

6:45 Rivana at Innovation Station

7:00 Michael Hsu

16:05 Don Sandy

16:12 Sandy Babcock

16:17 Ritz-Carlton

25:59 Farmhouse Inn

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and opportunist at heart. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has discovered his favorite part is “wowing” his clients. Please welcome to the show, Scott Lee! Scott is the President and Principal at SB Architects. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his experiences from working on the architecture of a prison to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality at its core is about truly experiencing the place you are staying at. Whether it’s going away on vacation or visiting a familiar place, a great hospitality experience is defined by coming home and sharing stories of what you experienced while away.
  • When you are looking to add people to your design firm, you want to strike the balance of getting like minded individuals as well as getting people that will help push the envelope in a positive way. 
  • Hiring people that are a cultural fit for your firm is a key component of doing interviews. If they aren’t a cultural fit, then don’t waste time looking at their drawings or design ideas as it will never work out right.
  • One way to keep employees motivated and committed to your company is to sell them a piece of the company. This way they behave like owners and take more responsibility and they will feel a sense of ownership and pride as the company grows.
  • New ideas can come from anybody at a company. There is no such thing as bad ideas so it’s a good idea to make your company feel like it’s an open environment where everyone is allowed to speak up and share ideas.
  • Some people consider luxury to be crown moldings or marble on marble or other extravagant trappings, but there is more of a shift over to focusing on the quality of the luxury you are receiving rather than the quantity of it.
  • Scott’s biggest advice to his younger self is to take risks and don’t be afraid to try something new. If you are waiting for that perfect time it might never come and life will pass you by, so jump in and take a chance. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I think hospitality is going to a place and experiencing the place.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:51 David Kennedy

3:31 Hill Glazier Architects

6:45 Rivana at Innovation Station

7:00 Michael Hsu

16:05 Don Sandy

16:12 Sandy Babcock

16:17 Ritz-Carlton

25:59 Farmhouse Inn

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3160 Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and opportunist at heart. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has discovered his favorite part is “wowing” his clients. Please welcome to the show, Scott Lee! Scott is the President and Principal at SB Architects. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his experiences from working on the architecture of a prison to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality at its core is about truly experiencing the place you are staying at. Whether it’s going away on vacation or visiting a familiar place, a great hospitality experience is defined by coming home and sharing stories of what you experienced while away.
  • When you are looking to add people to your design firm, you want to strike the balance of getting like minded individuals as well as getting people that will help push the envelope in a positive way. 
  • Hiring people that are a cultural fit for your firm is a key component of doing interviews. If they aren’t a cultural fit, then don’t waste time looking at their drawings or design ideas as it will never work out right.
  • One way to keep employees motivated and committed to your company is to sell them a piece of the company. This way they behave like owners and take more responsibility and they will feel a sense of ownership and pride as the company grows.
  • New ideas can come from anybody at a company. There is no such thing as bad ideas so it’s a good idea to make your company feel like it’s an open environment where everyone is allowed to speak up and share ideas.
  • Some people consider luxury to be crown moldings or marble on marble or other extravagant trappings, but there is more of a shift over to focusing on the quality of the luxury you are receiving rather than the quantity of it.
  • Scott’s biggest advice to his younger self is to take risks and don’t be afraid to try something new. If you are waiting for that perfect time it might never come and life will pass you by, so jump in and take a chance. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I think hospitality is going to a place and experiencing the place.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:51 David Kennedy

3:31 Hill Glazier Architects

6:45 Rivana at Innovation Station

7:00 Michael Hsu

16:05 Don Sandy

16:12 Sandy Babcock

16:17 Ritz-Carlton

25:59 Farmhouse Inn

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Pushing Design to the Next Level - Ethan Gabany - Episode # 094 94 94 Pushing Design to the Next Level - Ethan Gabany - Episode # 094 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/3d9fd011-6af1-30c0-b992-a5f02b61d74d https://share.transistor.fm/s/d1ad8446 Today’s guest is a hotel project management expert with extensive experience leading the development, renovation, and repositioning of upscale hospitality assets. Please welcome to the show, Ethan Gabany! Ethan is the Senior Manager of Hospitality Project Management at CBRE. Ethan joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey from pumping gas in a small rural town in Pennsylvania to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about meeting a guest's needs before they even realize that they have them. You want to be able to deliver a product or a service in that way with compassion and empathy. 
  • The first time you work with a client, you have to learn what makes them tick and the things that they enjoy and what they don’t like. This way when it is your second or third time working with them you’ll know exactly what they are looking for in a project. 
  • As a manager, it's your job to cut through the noise and distill it to the essence of what is nice to have and what is a must have while also having everyone feel comfortable enough to share their voice and be heard. 
  • When people go out to eat at a conference, they are now looking for restaurants that are designed with a unique aspect and are drifting away from the commercialized aspect that used to be popular. 
  • From a young age, Ethan was always the planner for the family vacations. He viewed vacations as escape from reality and when he and his family went on a trip to Philadelphia, a chance encounter with a cook helped him to find his passion. 
  • Ethan’s first job at 12 years was pumping gas for the gas station his dad had in a small town in Pennsylvania. Ethan found that he had an innate passion for human connection while doing this which eventually led to his career in hospitality.
  • Ethan has a passion for the more upscale projects as they tend to allow more creative freedom with their designers. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:38  “I would define hospitality as meeting a guest's needs before they have even realized them themselves with compassion and empathy”. 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

10:55 Liam Neeson

12:23 Ritz Carlton Philadelphia

14:44 Cornell University

14:47 Babson College 

15:44 Omni Resort

15:49 Rosewood

18:39 Retina McCarthy

18:53 Stephanie Robinson

18:54 Brad Wellstead

19:34 Ron Harrison

19:35 Marriott

20:18 Bill Walsh

20:19 Viceroy Hotel Group

22:34 ALIS Conference

25:34 Bob Webster

31:25 Meyer Davis

32:45 Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Burni

32:51 New York Times

35:51 Fairfield by Marriott

38:59 Bonvoy

43:25 Bennett Thomas

43:40 Hersha Hospitality Trust


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a hotel project management expert with extensive experience leading the development, renovation, and repositioning of upscale hospitality assets. Please welcome to the show, Ethan Gabany! Ethan is the Senior Manager of Hospitality Project Management at CBRE. Ethan joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey from pumping gas in a small rural town in Pennsylvania to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about meeting a guest's needs before they even realize that they have them. You want to be able to deliver a product or a service in that way with compassion and empathy. 
  • The first time you work with a client, you have to learn what makes them tick and the things that they enjoy and what they don’t like. This way when it is your second or third time working with them you’ll know exactly what they are looking for in a project. 
  • As a manager, it's your job to cut through the noise and distill it to the essence of what is nice to have and what is a must have while also having everyone feel comfortable enough to share their voice and be heard. 
  • When people go out to eat at a conference, they are now looking for restaurants that are designed with a unique aspect and are drifting away from the commercialized aspect that used to be popular. 
  • From a young age, Ethan was always the planner for the family vacations. He viewed vacations as escape from reality and when he and his family went on a trip to Philadelphia, a chance encounter with a cook helped him to find his passion. 
  • Ethan’s first job at 12 years was pumping gas for the gas station his dad had in a small town in Pennsylvania. Ethan found that he had an innate passion for human connection while doing this which eventually led to his career in hospitality.
  • Ethan has a passion for the more upscale projects as they tend to allow more creative freedom with their designers. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:38  “I would define hospitality as meeting a guest's needs before they have even realized them themselves with compassion and empathy”. 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

10:55 Liam Neeson

12:23 Ritz Carlton Philadelphia

14:44 Cornell University

14:47 Babson College 

15:44 Omni Resort

15:49 Rosewood

18:39 Retina McCarthy

18:53 Stephanie Robinson

18:54 Brad Wellstead

19:34 Ron Harrison

19:35 Marriott

20:18 Bill Walsh

20:19 Viceroy Hotel Group

22:34 ALIS Conference

25:34 Bob Webster

31:25 Meyer Davis

32:45 Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Burni

32:51 New York Times

35:51 Fairfield by Marriott

38:59 Bonvoy

43:25 Bennett Thomas

43:40 Hersha Hospitality Trust


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2835 Today’s guest is a hotel project management expert with extensive experience leading the development, renovation, and repositioning of upscale hospitality assets. Please welcome to the show, Ethan Gabany! Ethan is the Senior Manager of Hospitality Project Management at CBRE. Ethan joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey from pumping gas in a small rural town in Pennsylvania to where he is now. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about meeting a guest's needs before they even realize that they have them. You want to be able to deliver a product or a service in that way with compassion and empathy. 
  • The first time you work with a client, you have to learn what makes them tick and the things that they enjoy and what they don’t like. This way when it is your second or third time working with them you’ll know exactly what they are looking for in a project. 
  • As a manager, it's your job to cut through the noise and distill it to the essence of what is nice to have and what is a must have while also having everyone feel comfortable enough to share their voice and be heard. 
  • When people go out to eat at a conference, they are now looking for restaurants that are designed with a unique aspect and are drifting away from the commercialized aspect that used to be popular. 
  • From a young age, Ethan was always the planner for the family vacations. He viewed vacations as escape from reality and when he and his family went on a trip to Philadelphia, a chance encounter with a cook helped him to find his passion. 
  • Ethan’s first job at 12 years was pumping gas for the gas station his dad had in a small town in Pennsylvania. Ethan found that he had an innate passion for human connection while doing this which eventually led to his career in hospitality.
  • Ethan has a passion for the more upscale projects as they tend to allow more creative freedom with their designers. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:38  “I would define hospitality as meeting a guest's needs before they have even realized them themselves with compassion and empathy”. 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

10:55 Liam Neeson

12:23 Ritz Carlton Philadelphia

14:44 Cornell University

14:47 Babson College 

15:44 Omni Resort

15:49 Rosewood

18:39 Retina McCarthy

18:53 Stephanie Robinson

18:54 Brad Wellstead

19:34 Ron Harrison

19:35 Marriott

20:18 Bill Walsh

20:19 Viceroy Hotel Group

22:34 ALIS Conference

25:34 Bob Webster

31:25 Meyer Davis

32:45 Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Burni

32:51 New York Times

35:51 Fairfield by Marriott

38:59 Bonvoy

43:25 Bennett Thomas

43:40 Hersha Hospitality Trust


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Assessing The Talent You Have - Ashli Johnson - Episode # 093 93 93 Assessing The Talent You Have - Ashli Johnson - Episode # 093 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/35504286-c113-3ded-936c-c599f4b0d5b0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/96134f37 Today’s guest is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. She is a recent recipient of the FIU Alumni Award, and a hospitality sharpshooter. Please welcome to the show, Ashli Johnson! Ashli is the ​​Executive Director of the Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. Ashli joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about how Howard University is shaking up the hospitality industry and working on getting more diversity in the c-suite level in hospitality.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality can be viewed through two different parts that combine to make up the whole picture. The first part is the business of service and the second part is the heart and delivery of service. 
  • At Howard University, hospitality isn’t a major but the Marriott Sorenson Center allows students to explore what it takes to be a leader in the hospitality industry and create more diversity in the c-suite level of this industry.
  • The three main areas that Howard University wants to focus on is that they want their students to learn, understand and impact the hospitality, investment, real estate, and tech and innovation industries. 
  • As a society, we have to recognize our own personal bias and really focus on the talent that is fit to lead. We need to stop looking at who we are connected with and rather focus on the merits and what people bring to the table.
  • When you are working for an organization, there is a layer of sponsorship that helps you to become aware of positions that are opening up in the company. Having someone work on your behalf to talk about you positively is always a good thing to have.
  • Having someone be your sponsor doesn’t have to be a formal position. It can be something as simple as offering some help to a younger person who is looking to grow within the company.
  • Growing up with a father who was a Marine Corps Officer, Ashli traveled often and found her passion for hospitality when she was the one in charge of deciding which hotels they would stay at on road trips, or places they would eat, or houses they would move to.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:05 Hospitality to me is two parts. Hospitality is most certainly the business of service and it's also the heart and the delivery of service.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:11 Damon Lawrence 

1:13 Homage Hospitality

1:38 Arne Sorenson

8:26 Independent Lodging Conference

26:15 Lowe’s

29:20 Ray Bennett


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. She is a recent recipient of the FIU Alumni Award, and a hospitality sharpshooter. Please welcome to the show, Ashli Johnson! Ashli is the ​​Executive Director of the Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. Ashli joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about how Howard University is shaking up the hospitality industry and working on getting more diversity in the c-suite level in hospitality.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality can be viewed through two different parts that combine to make up the whole picture. The first part is the business of service and the second part is the heart and delivery of service. 
  • At Howard University, hospitality isn’t a major but the Marriott Sorenson Center allows students to explore what it takes to be a leader in the hospitality industry and create more diversity in the c-suite level of this industry.
  • The three main areas that Howard University wants to focus on is that they want their students to learn, understand and impact the hospitality, investment, real estate, and tech and innovation industries. 
  • As a society, we have to recognize our own personal bias and really focus on the talent that is fit to lead. We need to stop looking at who we are connected with and rather focus on the merits and what people bring to the table.
  • When you are working for an organization, there is a layer of sponsorship that helps you to become aware of positions that are opening up in the company. Having someone work on your behalf to talk about you positively is always a good thing to have.
  • Having someone be your sponsor doesn’t have to be a formal position. It can be something as simple as offering some help to a younger person who is looking to grow within the company.
  • Growing up with a father who was a Marine Corps Officer, Ashli traveled often and found her passion for hospitality when she was the one in charge of deciding which hotels they would stay at on road trips, or places they would eat, or houses they would move to.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:05 Hospitality to me is two parts. Hospitality is most certainly the business of service and it's also the heart and the delivery of service.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:11 Damon Lawrence 

1:13 Homage Hospitality

1:38 Arne Sorenson

8:26 Independent Lodging Conference

26:15 Lowe’s

29:20 Ray Bennett


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3170 Today’s guest is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. She is a recent recipient of the FIU Alumni Award, and a hospitality sharpshooter. Please welcome to the show, Ashli Johnson! Ashli is the ​​Executive Director of the Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. Ashli joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about how Howard University is shaking up the hospitality industry and working on getting more diversity in the c-suite level in hospitality.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality can be viewed through two different parts that combine to make up the whole picture. The first part is the business of service and the second part is the heart and delivery of service. 
  • At Howard University, hospitality isn’t a major but the Marriott Sorenson Center allows students to explore what it takes to be a leader in the hospitality industry and create more diversity in the c-suite level of this industry.
  • The three main areas that Howard University wants to focus on is that they want their students to learn, understand and impact the hospitality, investment, real estate, and tech and innovation industries. 
  • As a society, we have to recognize our own personal bias and really focus on the talent that is fit to lead. We need to stop looking at who we are connected with and rather focus on the merits and what people bring to the table.
  • When you are working for an organization, there is a layer of sponsorship that helps you to become aware of positions that are opening up in the company. Having someone work on your behalf to talk about you positively is always a good thing to have.
  • Having someone be your sponsor doesn’t have to be a formal position. It can be something as simple as offering some help to a younger person who is looking to grow within the company.
  • Growing up with a father who was a Marine Corps Officer, Ashli traveled often and found her passion for hospitality when she was the one in charge of deciding which hotels they would stay at on road trips, or places they would eat, or houses they would move to.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:05 Hospitality to me is two parts. Hospitality is most certainly the business of service and it's also the heart and the delivery of service.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:11 Damon Lawrence 

1:13 Homage Hospitality

1:38 Arne Sorenson

8:26 Independent Lodging Conference

26:15 Lowe’s

29:20 Ray Bennett


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Enriching Lives - Daniel del Olmo - Episode # 092 92 92 Enriching Lives - Daniel del Olmo - Episode # 092 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/9574f78d-afb0-3d5e-b202-33c04f032bc3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bfb81595 Today’s guest is a leader and motivator who champions involvement. He is an innovative problem solver and has a progressive record of achievements with significant experience in global business strategy. Daniel del Olmo is the President of Hotels and Restaurants at Sage Hospitality Group. Daniel joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and talks about how enriching lives can lead to a better experience for everyone.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true purpose of hospitality is to enrich the lives of the guests, associates and the communities that you serve. You want to have a positive impact on the people who are coming into your restaurant or your hotel, and without having that impact then hospitality truly can’t be reached.
  • There’s no way to get a better sense of how your culture is thriving within your company than spending time with your team. Take the time to sit down and hear what members of your team are saying and see what you can do to help them.
  • There is a misconception that you need to have worked in operations or previously worked as a general manager at a hotel to be promoted to being a general manager. You could be in almost any position to be promoted to a general manager as long as you show the skills and determination to do the job right.
  • Many people have heard of having a work/life balance, but there is also work/life presence. This is a newer mindset where instead of focusing on how many hours someone works, you focus on what they do in those hours and what work they get done.
  • Providing competitive benefits and having a positive reputation with your employees is a great way to attract more people to work with you, and it will help you retain employees as well.
  • There is a tangible energy with a company that is creating a positive culture and that energy will bring the right people to your company. 
  • As a leader, it’s important to have each member of your team contribute to the greater good and have everyone on the same page to achieve the same company goal. You want people to feel like they belong to something so special in the making.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:41 “Hospitality then for me is really about enriching lives.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

0:32 Independent Lodging Congress

0:48 The Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS)

23:10 Danny Meyer

32:02 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

45:02 Fred Reichheld

46:22 Net Promoter Score

47:14 Winning on Purpose by Fred Reichheld

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a leader and motivator who champions involvement. He is an innovative problem solver and has a progressive record of achievements with significant experience in global business strategy. Daniel del Olmo is the President of Hotels and Restaurants at Sage Hospitality Group. Daniel joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and talks about how enriching lives can lead to a better experience for everyone.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true purpose of hospitality is to enrich the lives of the guests, associates and the communities that you serve. You want to have a positive impact on the people who are coming into your restaurant or your hotel, and without having that impact then hospitality truly can’t be reached.
  • There’s no way to get a better sense of how your culture is thriving within your company than spending time with your team. Take the time to sit down and hear what members of your team are saying and see what you can do to help them.
  • There is a misconception that you need to have worked in operations or previously worked as a general manager at a hotel to be promoted to being a general manager. You could be in almost any position to be promoted to a general manager as long as you show the skills and determination to do the job right.
  • Many people have heard of having a work/life balance, but there is also work/life presence. This is a newer mindset where instead of focusing on how many hours someone works, you focus on what they do in those hours and what work they get done.
  • Providing competitive benefits and having a positive reputation with your employees is a great way to attract more people to work with you, and it will help you retain employees as well.
  • There is a tangible energy with a company that is creating a positive culture and that energy will bring the right people to your company. 
  • As a leader, it’s important to have each member of your team contribute to the greater good and have everyone on the same page to achieve the same company goal. You want people to feel like they belong to something so special in the making.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:41 “Hospitality then for me is really about enriching lives.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

0:32 Independent Lodging Congress

0:48 The Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS)

23:10 Danny Meyer

32:02 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

45:02 Fred Reichheld

46:22 Net Promoter Score

47:14 Winning on Purpose by Fred Reichheld

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Feb 2023 10:18:22 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3183 Today’s guest is a leader and motivator who champions involvement. He is an innovative problem solver and has a progressive record of achievements with significant experience in global business strategy. Daniel del Olmo is the President of Hotels and Restaurants at Sage Hospitality Group. Daniel joins the host Dan Ryan to share his views on the hospitality industry and talks about how enriching lives can lead to a better experience for everyone.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true purpose of hospitality is to enrich the lives of the guests, associates and the communities that you serve. You want to have a positive impact on the people who are coming into your restaurant or your hotel, and without having that impact then hospitality truly can’t be reached.
  • There’s no way to get a better sense of how your culture is thriving within your company than spending time with your team. Take the time to sit down and hear what members of your team are saying and see what you can do to help them.
  • There is a misconception that you need to have worked in operations or previously worked as a general manager at a hotel to be promoted to being a general manager. You could be in almost any position to be promoted to a general manager as long as you show the skills and determination to do the job right.
  • Many people have heard of having a work/life balance, but there is also work/life presence. This is a newer mindset where instead of focusing on how many hours someone works, you focus on what they do in those hours and what work they get done.
  • Providing competitive benefits and having a positive reputation with your employees is a great way to attract more people to work with you, and it will help you retain employees as well.
  • There is a tangible energy with a company that is creating a positive culture and that energy will bring the right people to your company. 
  • As a leader, it’s important to have each member of your team contribute to the greater good and have everyone on the same page to achieve the same company goal. You want people to feel like they belong to something so special in the making.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:41 “Hospitality then for me is really about enriching lives.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

0:32 Independent Lodging Congress

0:48 The Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS)

23:10 Danny Meyer

32:02 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

45:02 Fred Reichheld

46:22 Net Promoter Score

47:14 Winning on Purpose by Fred Reichheld

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Having Caring DNA - Keith Pierce - Episode # 091 91 91 Having Caring DNA - Keith Pierce - Episode # 091 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/24bbfbef-7d71-35f6-9266-3e4ad7875139 https://share.transistor.fm/s/36820790 Today’s guest found his passion for hospitality at a young age. He is a results driven global hospitality executive with extensive operational and development experience, as well as being a passionate, driven leader with a no-nonsense approach. Keith Pierce is the EVP, President Franchise & Development at Sonesta. Keith joins the host Dan Ryan to share his viewpoints on the benefits of franchising a hotel and Sonesta’s unbelievable climb to being the 8th largest hotel in the United States.

 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is the business of caring. This means that you care for your employees, your guests, the development team and the community. Without that sense of caring it will be hard for your hotel to be genuine. 
  • During the pandemic, Sonesta managed to create a truly remarkable feat by growing from just 50 hotels to over 1200 hotels that they own or operate. This growth happened when the reit that owned 300 hotels elected to take hotels from the brand they currently had and put them into the Sonesta brand.
  • In 2019 the hospitality industry was thriving and seeing the best business it had seen in 40 years, but once 2020 came along that brought the industry down to the lowest it has ever been in 40 years. 
  • Sonesta today has a franchise model, a management model and an ownership structure, all which are unique for the Sonesta brand.
  • Having a culture of caring for your franchisees helps to sway independent hotels in the decision of who they want to partner with. 
  • Sonesta Hotels acts as an owner and operator of a franchisee which helps to provide a comfort level to their franchisees.
  • Creating a level of caring and a good culture at a company starts with hiring the right people and having everyone work in the office together. This will help to make sure that everyone has the same goal in mind and works together well.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:19 “I define hospitality as the business of caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:33 Marriott Desert Ridge

3:26 John Murray

3:33 SVC

4:27 Adam Portnoy and the Portnoy Family

4:44 Marriott

4:45 IHG

4:47 Wyndham 

4:48 Radison

7:15 Candlewood

7:20 Residence Inn

7:55 Redline Hotel Company

11:48 MIT

31:55 Lodging Hospitality

32:01 New York Hotel Show

32:07 Mandarin Oriental 

32:09 Time Warner Center

33:05 Waldorf Astoria

33:30 Hawthorne Suites

33:32 Joe McInerney

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest found his passion for hospitality at a young age. He is a results driven global hospitality executive with extensive operational and development experience, as well as being a passionate, driven leader with a no-nonsense approach. Keith Pierce is the EVP, President Franchise & Development at Sonesta. Keith joins the host Dan Ryan to share his viewpoints on the benefits of franchising a hotel and Sonesta’s unbelievable climb to being the 8th largest hotel in the United States.

 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is the business of caring. This means that you care for your employees, your guests, the development team and the community. Without that sense of caring it will be hard for your hotel to be genuine. 
  • During the pandemic, Sonesta managed to create a truly remarkable feat by growing from just 50 hotels to over 1200 hotels that they own or operate. This growth happened when the reit that owned 300 hotels elected to take hotels from the brand they currently had and put them into the Sonesta brand.
  • In 2019 the hospitality industry was thriving and seeing the best business it had seen in 40 years, but once 2020 came along that brought the industry down to the lowest it has ever been in 40 years. 
  • Sonesta today has a franchise model, a management model and an ownership structure, all which are unique for the Sonesta brand.
  • Having a culture of caring for your franchisees helps to sway independent hotels in the decision of who they want to partner with. 
  • Sonesta Hotels acts as an owner and operator of a franchisee which helps to provide a comfort level to their franchisees.
  • Creating a level of caring and a good culture at a company starts with hiring the right people and having everyone work in the office together. This will help to make sure that everyone has the same goal in mind and works together well.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:19 “I define hospitality as the business of caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:33 Marriott Desert Ridge

3:26 John Murray

3:33 SVC

4:27 Adam Portnoy and the Portnoy Family

4:44 Marriott

4:45 IHG

4:47 Wyndham 

4:48 Radison

7:15 Candlewood

7:20 Residence Inn

7:55 Redline Hotel Company

11:48 MIT

31:55 Lodging Hospitality

32:01 New York Hotel Show

32:07 Mandarin Oriental 

32:09 Time Warner Center

33:05 Waldorf Astoria

33:30 Hawthorne Suites

33:32 Joe McInerney

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2719 Today’s guest found his passion for hospitality at a young age. He is a results driven global hospitality executive with extensive operational and development experience, as well as being a passionate, driven leader with a no-nonsense approach. Keith Pierce is the EVP, President Franchise & Development at Sonesta. Keith joins the host Dan Ryan to share his viewpoints on the benefits of franchising a hotel and Sonesta’s unbelievable climb to being the 8th largest hotel in the United States.

 

Takeaways: 

  • At its core, hospitality is the business of caring. This means that you care for your employees, your guests, the development team and the community. Without that sense of caring it will be hard for your hotel to be genuine. 
  • During the pandemic, Sonesta managed to create a truly remarkable feat by growing from just 50 hotels to over 1200 hotels that they own or operate. This growth happened when the reit that owned 300 hotels elected to take hotels from the brand they currently had and put them into the Sonesta brand.
  • In 2019 the hospitality industry was thriving and seeing the best business it had seen in 40 years, but once 2020 came along that brought the industry down to the lowest it has ever been in 40 years. 
  • Sonesta today has a franchise model, a management model and an ownership structure, all which are unique for the Sonesta brand.
  • Having a culture of caring for your franchisees helps to sway independent hotels in the decision of who they want to partner with. 
  • Sonesta Hotels acts as an owner and operator of a franchisee which helps to provide a comfort level to their franchisees.
  • Creating a level of caring and a good culture at a company starts with hiring the right people and having everyone work in the office together. This will help to make sure that everyone has the same goal in mind and works together well.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:19 “I define hospitality as the business of caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:33 Marriott Desert Ridge

3:26 John Murray

3:33 SVC

4:27 Adam Portnoy and the Portnoy Family

4:44 Marriott

4:45 IHG

4:47 Wyndham 

4:48 Radison

7:15 Candlewood

7:20 Residence Inn

7:55 Redline Hotel Company

11:48 MIT

31:55 Lodging Hospitality

32:01 New York Hotel Show

32:07 Mandarin Oriental 

32:09 Time Warner Center

33:05 Waldorf Astoria

33:30 Hawthorne Suites

33:32 Joe McInerney

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality Influences Everything - Alex Lopatynsky - Episode # 090 90 90 Hospitality Influences Everything - Alex Lopatynsky - Episode # 090 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1e4cbcc5-70d0-3d74-929d-5cde246f9987 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f3641d6e Today’s guest is passionate about the design of communities, spaces, and experiences that connect people. She is an architect, innovator, and culture advocate. Alex Lopatynsky is a Principal & The Managing Director of the NY Office at Cooper Carry. Alex joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her views on hospitality and what it all means to her.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality doesn’t necessarily have to be about the place itself where you are staying. It’s more about the feeling you receive from the employees and the feeling the room gives you when you arrive. 
  • Even at the smallest of spaces, or minimally designed spaces, as long as you are welcoming people as if you are welcoming them to your home then it will be a memorable experience.
  • The hospitality industry has been a big influence on many aspects, not just hotels. Nowadays, a business will look at gathering spaces for their employees or design rooms in a certain way to make people feel welcome.
  • Culture and hospitality have interconnecting points where they interact with each other. Culture is looked at as the human element and hospitality can bring everyone together.
  • Our best work and best collaboration is often done in person. Humans by nature are social creatures and there are great opportunities to enhance an idea of design when talking with a co-worker or friend.
  • There is a lot of value in having people come to the office. It allows for people to interact with each other and feel connected to everyone around them.
  • Everyone brings a unique perspective to solving issues within the hospitality industry, which allows the industry to expand with new ideas. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:27 “Hospitality is less about, in my mind, the physical place, but it's the emotional feeling you experience from entering it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:37 Graffiti

3:41 Jehangir Mehta

17:29 Stephanie Hopkins

17:30 Marriott

31:36 Julia Cosencos

31:42 Ribas

25:15 George Sawiki

25:54 Ukrainian Scout Organization

35:24 Sawiki Tarella

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Today’s guest is passionate about the design of communities, spaces, and experiences that connect people. She is an architect, innovator, and culture advocate. Alex Lopatynsky is a Principal & The Managing Director of the NY Office at Cooper Carry. Alex joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her views on hospitality and what it all means to her.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality doesn’t necessarily have to be about the place itself where you are staying. It’s more about the feeling you receive from the employees and the feeling the room gives you when you arrive. 
  • Even at the smallest of spaces, or minimally designed spaces, as long as you are welcoming people as if you are welcoming them to your home then it will be a memorable experience.
  • The hospitality industry has been a big influence on many aspects, not just hotels. Nowadays, a business will look at gathering spaces for their employees or design rooms in a certain way to make people feel welcome.
  • Culture and hospitality have interconnecting points where they interact with each other. Culture is looked at as the human element and hospitality can bring everyone together.
  • Our best work and best collaboration is often done in person. Humans by nature are social creatures and there are great opportunities to enhance an idea of design when talking with a co-worker or friend.
  • There is a lot of value in having people come to the office. It allows for people to interact with each other and feel connected to everyone around them.
  • Everyone brings a unique perspective to solving issues within the hospitality industry, which allows the industry to expand with new ideas. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:27 “Hospitality is less about, in my mind, the physical place, but it's the emotional feeling you experience from entering it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:37 Graffiti

3:41 Jehangir Mehta

17:29 Stephanie Hopkins

17:30 Marriott

31:36 Julia Cosencos

31:42 Ribas

25:15 George Sawiki

25:54 Ukrainian Scout Organization

35:24 Sawiki Tarella

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:52:45 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3202 Today’s guest is passionate about the design of communities, spaces, and experiences that connect people. She is an architect, innovator, and culture advocate. Alex Lopatynsky is a Principal & The Managing Director of the NY Office at Cooper Carry. Alex joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her views on hospitality and what it all means to her.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality doesn’t necessarily have to be about the place itself where you are staying. It’s more about the feeling you receive from the employees and the feeling the room gives you when you arrive. 
  • Even at the smallest of spaces, or minimally designed spaces, as long as you are welcoming people as if you are welcoming them to your home then it will be a memorable experience.
  • The hospitality industry has been a big influence on many aspects, not just hotels. Nowadays, a business will look at gathering spaces for their employees or design rooms in a certain way to make people feel welcome.
  • Culture and hospitality have interconnecting points where they interact with each other. Culture is looked at as the human element and hospitality can bring everyone together.
  • Our best work and best collaboration is often done in person. Humans by nature are social creatures and there are great opportunities to enhance an idea of design when talking with a co-worker or friend.
  • There is a lot of value in having people come to the office. It allows for people to interact with each other and feel connected to everyone around them.
  • Everyone brings a unique perspective to solving issues within the hospitality industry, which allows the industry to expand with new ideas. 

 

Quote of the Show:

1:27 “Hospitality is less about, in my mind, the physical place, but it's the emotional feeling you experience from entering it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:37 Graffiti

3:41 Jehangir Mehta

17:29 Stephanie Hopkins

17:30 Marriott

31:36 Julia Cosencos

31:42 Ribas

25:15 George Sawiki

25:54 Ukrainian Scout Organization

35:24 Sawiki Tarella

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Flipping the Script - Stephanie Hopkins - Episode # 089 89 89 Flipping the Script - Stephanie Hopkins - Episode # 089 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/d258ecf2-82eb-34cb-b5a6-a692cc54a544 https://share.transistor.fm/s/31149cc1 Today’s guest loves helping create spaces and experiences where people will make lasting memories. With hospitality being engrained in her soul, she is ready to see it make a comeback. Stephanie Hopkins is the Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International. Stephanie joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in this beautiful industry and how she sees hospitality through her eyes. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is more about the overall experience that you get and experiencing everything there is to offer. 
  • Growing up in Texas, Stephanie’s mom was the example she had for what hospitality really is because she was always entertaining and providing a welcoming environment for friends and family. 
  • Stephanie spent time working in London and New York doing interior design, and that is where she discovered her passion for hospitality and design. 
  • Working with an independent hotel and boutique hotels will help you to learn how to think on your feet and find solutions to unique problems.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience.
  • Not every brand or hotel is for every person. You want to build a hotel and think about the customers that you are trying to attract without also confusing the design of the brand for other hotel designs. 
  • Through the pandemic, a lot of people developed a longing for travel as that was taken away from them. People are now wanting to go out and experience new places and see beautiful hotels. 

 

Quote of the Show:

3:56 ​​ “What hospitality means to me it's more of that kind of that overall experience, kind of that 360 degree view.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:10 Kristen Conry

1:16 Marriott

2:04 BDYN

7:20 Tony Chi

7:58 Chip Conley

9:19 Bridgeton

10:58 Journey East Hampton

11:14 Atit Jariwala

18:25 Johnny Marsh

24:38 Oswaldo Barrios

25:00 Arnie Sorenson

25:17 Hilton

25:18 Accor

27:55 Edition

31:36 Kelsey Linz

31:51 Reggio Emilia

40:06 Mindclick

41:30 JoAnna Abrams

46:36 Airstream

47:40 Mattel Rancho

48:33 Bunkhouse

48:37 Liz Lambert

48:53 McGuire Lambert Hospitality

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Today’s guest loves helping create spaces and experiences where people will make lasting memories. With hospitality being engrained in her soul, she is ready to see it make a comeback. Stephanie Hopkins is the Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International. Stephanie joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in this beautiful industry and how she sees hospitality through her eyes. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is more about the overall experience that you get and experiencing everything there is to offer. 
  • Growing up in Texas, Stephanie’s mom was the example she had for what hospitality really is because she was always entertaining and providing a welcoming environment for friends and family. 
  • Stephanie spent time working in London and New York doing interior design, and that is where she discovered her passion for hospitality and design. 
  • Working with an independent hotel and boutique hotels will help you to learn how to think on your feet and find solutions to unique problems.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience.
  • Not every brand or hotel is for every person. You want to build a hotel and think about the customers that you are trying to attract without also confusing the design of the brand for other hotel designs. 
  • Through the pandemic, a lot of people developed a longing for travel as that was taken away from them. People are now wanting to go out and experience new places and see beautiful hotels. 

 

Quote of the Show:

3:56 ​​ “What hospitality means to me it's more of that kind of that overall experience, kind of that 360 degree view.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:10 Kristen Conry

1:16 Marriott

2:04 BDYN

7:20 Tony Chi

7:58 Chip Conley

9:19 Bridgeton

10:58 Journey East Hampton

11:14 Atit Jariwala

18:25 Johnny Marsh

24:38 Oswaldo Barrios

25:00 Arnie Sorenson

25:17 Hilton

25:18 Accor

27:55 Edition

31:36 Kelsey Linz

31:51 Reggio Emilia

40:06 Mindclick

41:30 JoAnna Abrams

46:36 Airstream

47:40 Mattel Rancho

48:33 Bunkhouse

48:37 Liz Lambert

48:53 McGuire Lambert Hospitality

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3374 Today’s guest loves helping create spaces and experiences where people will make lasting memories. With hospitality being engrained in her soul, she is ready to see it make a comeback. Stephanie Hopkins is the Senior Interior Design Manager at Marriott International. Stephanie joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in this beautiful industry and how she sees hospitality through her eyes. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is more about the overall experience that you get and experiencing everything there is to offer. 
  • Growing up in Texas, Stephanie’s mom was the example she had for what hospitality really is because she was always entertaining and providing a welcoming environment for friends and family. 
  • Stephanie spent time working in London and New York doing interior design, and that is where she discovered her passion for hospitality and design. 
  • Working with an independent hotel and boutique hotels will help you to learn how to think on your feet and find solutions to unique problems.
  • Every piece of detail matters to a guest and it impacts their experience at a hotel. You want to make sure that you are planning out every detail as much as you can and using the detail to make the guest have a wonderful experience.
  • Not every brand or hotel is for every person. You want to build a hotel and think about the customers that you are trying to attract without also confusing the design of the brand for other hotel designs. 
  • Through the pandemic, a lot of people developed a longing for travel as that was taken away from them. People are now wanting to go out and experience new places and see beautiful hotels. 

 

Quote of the Show:

3:56 ​​ “What hospitality means to me it's more of that kind of that overall experience, kind of that 360 degree view.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:10 Kristen Conry

1:16 Marriott

2:04 BDYN

7:20 Tony Chi

7:58 Chip Conley

9:19 Bridgeton

10:58 Journey East Hampton

11:14 Atit Jariwala

18:25 Johnny Marsh

24:38 Oswaldo Barrios

25:00 Arnie Sorenson

25:17 Hilton

25:18 Accor

27:55 Edition

31:36 Kelsey Linz

31:51 Reggio Emilia

40:06 Mindclick

41:30 JoAnna Abrams

46:36 Airstream

47:40 Mattel Rancho

48:33 Bunkhouse

48:37 Liz Lambert

48:53 McGuire Lambert Hospitality

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan All the World’s A Stage - Bridget Rooks - Episode # 088 88 88 All the World’s A Stage - Bridget Rooks - Episode # 088 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/2f0f6392-7b69-3941-b692-2de256dbf839 https://share.transistor.fm/s/87b7c690 Today’s guest is an accidental hospitality leader. She has been in the hospitality industry for more than a decade and half, all while managing the ongoing renovation work across the growing portfolio for the 8th largest hotel company in the US. Bridget Rooks is the Senior Director, Renovation and Capital Projects at Sonesta Hotels. Bridget joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the hospitality industry and how her playwriting skills have influenced  her views on hospitality. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is like a warm welcome to a guest. You are ready to greet the guest and meet any needs they have for their occasions, all while being prepared to exceed those expectations. 
  • For customer renovations, think of your design narrative as your thesis statement or elevator pitch. The stakeholders are a part of this process so don’t forget to include them as well. 
  • Don’t be afraid to say that you don’t know the answer to something. You will never get the right answer or learn how to properly do something if you aren’t vulnerable and ask questions.
  • In order to make your work process better, it’s important to learn from past experiences. You can look back and see what you could do differently and make the process run better. 
  • Getting feedback from the development team is important for making sure that a design is going in the right direction. This will help guide you toward what the client had in mind and what else might need to be included. 
  • The needs for clients and guests will vary between the quality of a hotel. For example, an upscale hotel would have different needs than an upper upscale hotel.
  • You won’t be able to respond to what each guest says that can be improved in a hotel. But it’s still important to try and balance all of them and hear what guests are saying and improve the hotel in the best way possible for everyone.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I would define hospitality as a warm welcome” - Bridget Rooks

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:23 Brian Quinn

6:40 Trader Joe’s

7:03 Benjamin West

7:33 Toby Nudelman

8:45 Vicky Smith

37:18 Sonesta Select Prototype Hotel

37:20 Foxboro, MA

37:50 DLR Group

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Today’s guest is an accidental hospitality leader. She has been in the hospitality industry for more than a decade and half, all while managing the ongoing renovation work across the growing portfolio for the 8th largest hotel company in the US. Bridget Rooks is the Senior Director, Renovation and Capital Projects at Sonesta Hotels. Bridget joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the hospitality industry and how her playwriting skills have influenced  her views on hospitality. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is like a warm welcome to a guest. You are ready to greet the guest and meet any needs they have for their occasions, all while being prepared to exceed those expectations. 
  • For customer renovations, think of your design narrative as your thesis statement or elevator pitch. The stakeholders are a part of this process so don’t forget to include them as well. 
  • Don’t be afraid to say that you don’t know the answer to something. You will never get the right answer or learn how to properly do something if you aren’t vulnerable and ask questions.
  • In order to make your work process better, it’s important to learn from past experiences. You can look back and see what you could do differently and make the process run better. 
  • Getting feedback from the development team is important for making sure that a design is going in the right direction. This will help guide you toward what the client had in mind and what else might need to be included. 
  • The needs for clients and guests will vary between the quality of a hotel. For example, an upscale hotel would have different needs than an upper upscale hotel.
  • You won’t be able to respond to what each guest says that can be improved in a hotel. But it’s still important to try and balance all of them and hear what guests are saying and improve the hotel in the best way possible for everyone.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I would define hospitality as a warm welcome” - Bridget Rooks

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:23 Brian Quinn

6:40 Trader Joe’s

7:03 Benjamin West

7:33 Toby Nudelman

8:45 Vicky Smith

37:18 Sonesta Select Prototype Hotel

37:20 Foxboro, MA

37:50 DLR Group

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 11 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2731 Today’s guest is an accidental hospitality leader. She has been in the hospitality industry for more than a decade and half, all while managing the ongoing renovation work across the growing portfolio for the 8th largest hotel company in the US. Bridget Rooks is the Senior Director, Renovation and Capital Projects at Sonesta Hotels. Bridget joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the hospitality industry and how her playwriting skills have influenced  her views on hospitality. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is like a warm welcome to a guest. You are ready to greet the guest and meet any needs they have for their occasions, all while being prepared to exceed those expectations. 
  • For customer renovations, think of your design narrative as your thesis statement or elevator pitch. The stakeholders are a part of this process so don’t forget to include them as well. 
  • Don’t be afraid to say that you don’t know the answer to something. You will never get the right answer or learn how to properly do something if you aren’t vulnerable and ask questions.
  • In order to make your work process better, it’s important to learn from past experiences. You can look back and see what you could do differently and make the process run better. 
  • Getting feedback from the development team is important for making sure that a design is going in the right direction. This will help guide you toward what the client had in mind and what else might need to be included. 
  • The needs for clients and guests will vary between the quality of a hotel. For example, an upscale hotel would have different needs than an upper upscale hotel.
  • You won’t be able to respond to what each guest says that can be improved in a hotel. But it’s still important to try and balance all of them and hear what guests are saying and improve the hotel in the best way possible for everyone.

 

Quote of the Show:

2:22 “I would define hospitality as a warm welcome” - Bridget Rooks

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:23 Brian Quinn

6:40 Trader Joe’s

7:03 Benjamin West

7:33 Toby Nudelman

8:45 Vicky Smith

37:18 Sonesta Select Prototype Hotel

37:20 Foxboro, MA

37:50 DLR Group

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Both Sides of the Coin - Chris McDonough - Episode # 087 87 87 Both Sides of the Coin - Chris McDonough - Episode # 087 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/7831a4b2-1eee-3b34-b7d8-a74d96782014 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1581a5eb Today’s guest is accredited by the American Institute of Architects, LEED AP, and certified with the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards. He also has over 25 years of experience with award winning projects around the world. Chris McDonough is the Principal at The Gettys Group Companies. Chris joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Every design has a story behind it and it can transport you to a different mindset when you are there. That is part of the beauty of hospitality.
  • Hospitality can be a form of escape from the daily lives that everyone lives. Oftentimes a change in scenery or design can really change a person's perspective or outlook.
  • Interior Architecture is a marriage between interior design and architecture. Combining both of these creates a very successful process for designing a unique space. 
  • Not only does a space need to be beautiful, but it needs to function and work well. If it doesn’t meet both of these standards, then the space will remain empty and unused, leaving you frustrated.
  • When you are building a hotel, you have the freedom to test it against the market knowledge and see what works as a design aspect and what doesn’t work.
  • You want to create a space that makes guests want to come back and tell others about the amazing experience that they had and how much they loved it.
  • When it comes to building a brand or a soft branded hotel, you want to narrow what your demographic is and if you focus on catering to the small group of people who will always return, then you will have created raving fans.

 

Quote of the Show:

3:05 “My heart’s really in hospitality mostly because of the feeling you get or the feeling that we want to give to guests and people that are experiencing the spaces we design.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:42 Wilco

9:58 University of Illinois

10:07 Chicago Cubs

10:08 Chicago White Sox

10:46 Admirals Club

10:45 San Francisco International Airport

10:51 Joe DiMaggio

17:54 Hotel of Tomorrow

18:41 John Lasseter

24:41 The Farnham in Omaha

25:34 Curio

27:25 Roger

27:25 Andrew

27:26 Ron

34:34 Leveque Tower

34:57 Empire State Building

35:09 Roger Hill

35:32 Hotel Verdant

53:52 BDNY

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is accredited by the American Institute of Architects, LEED AP, and certified with the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards. He also has over 25 years of experience with award winning projects around the world. Chris McDonough is the Principal at The Gettys Group Companies. Chris joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Every design has a story behind it and it can transport you to a different mindset when you are there. That is part of the beauty of hospitality.
  • Hospitality can be a form of escape from the daily lives that everyone lives. Oftentimes a change in scenery or design can really change a person's perspective or outlook.
  • Interior Architecture is a marriage between interior design and architecture. Combining both of these creates a very successful process for designing a unique space. 
  • Not only does a space need to be beautiful, but it needs to function and work well. If it doesn’t meet both of these standards, then the space will remain empty and unused, leaving you frustrated.
  • When you are building a hotel, you have the freedom to test it against the market knowledge and see what works as a design aspect and what doesn’t work.
  • You want to create a space that makes guests want to come back and tell others about the amazing experience that they had and how much they loved it.
  • When it comes to building a brand or a soft branded hotel, you want to narrow what your demographic is and if you focus on catering to the small group of people who will always return, then you will have created raving fans.

 

Quote of the Show:

3:05 “My heart’s really in hospitality mostly because of the feeling you get or the feeling that we want to give to guests and people that are experiencing the spaces we design.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:42 Wilco

9:58 University of Illinois

10:07 Chicago Cubs

10:08 Chicago White Sox

10:46 Admirals Club

10:45 San Francisco International Airport

10:51 Joe DiMaggio

17:54 Hotel of Tomorrow

18:41 John Lasseter

24:41 The Farnham in Omaha

25:34 Curio

27:25 Roger

27:25 Andrew

27:26 Ron

34:34 Leveque Tower

34:57 Empire State Building

35:09 Roger Hill

35:32 Hotel Verdant

53:52 BDNY

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3299 Today’s guest is accredited by the American Institute of Architects, LEED AP, and certified with the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards. He also has over 25 years of experience with award winning projects around the world. Chris McDonough is the Principal at The Gettys Group Companies. Chris joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Every design has a story behind it and it can transport you to a different mindset when you are there. That is part of the beauty of hospitality.
  • Hospitality can be a form of escape from the daily lives that everyone lives. Oftentimes a change in scenery or design can really change a person's perspective or outlook.
  • Interior Architecture is a marriage between interior design and architecture. Combining both of these creates a very successful process for designing a unique space. 
  • Not only does a space need to be beautiful, but it needs to function and work well. If it doesn’t meet both of these standards, then the space will remain empty and unused, leaving you frustrated.
  • When you are building a hotel, you have the freedom to test it against the market knowledge and see what works as a design aspect and what doesn’t work.
  • You want to create a space that makes guests want to come back and tell others about the amazing experience that they had and how much they loved it.
  • When it comes to building a brand or a soft branded hotel, you want to narrow what your demographic is and if you focus on catering to the small group of people who will always return, then you will have created raving fans.

 

Quote of the Show:

3:05 “My heart’s really in hospitality mostly because of the feeling you get or the feeling that we want to give to guests and people that are experiencing the spaces we design.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:42 Wilco

9:58 University of Illinois

10:07 Chicago Cubs

10:08 Chicago White Sox

10:46 Admirals Club

10:45 San Francisco International Airport

10:51 Joe DiMaggio

17:54 Hotel of Tomorrow

18:41 John Lasseter

24:41 The Farnham in Omaha

25:34 Curio

27:25 Roger

27:25 Andrew

27:26 Ron

34:34 Leveque Tower

34:57 Empire State Building

35:09 Roger Hill

35:32 Hotel Verdant

53:52 BDNY

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Finding Curiosity - Ron Lovett - Episode # 086 86 86 Finding Curiosity - Ron Lovett - Episode # 086 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/c0423f1c-c898-3a0b-82c0-10f4b1705d30 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3d1244c Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and leader with a passion for change. He’s the host of the podcast “Scaling Culture” and the author of a couple of books - Outrageous Empowerment & Scaling Culture. Ron Lovett is the Founder and Chief Community Officer at VIDA. Ron joins the host Dan Ryan to share his hospitality journey and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at building your business, you want to cut 10% of the company out and own 70% of that 10% that you saved for yourself. 
  • If you break down great customer service, it comes down to the ability to care for those around you and put yourself in their shoes.
  • If you are adding new members to your team, consider trying to find out how they would react to something in the real world. This way you can see who they are as a person instead of just hiring someone because they smile and seem nice.
  • You can’t teach empathy as a skill. It’s something that you are either born with or you won’t be able to learn the skill.
  • Having core values as a company is incredibly important as they are your guiding light, but when it comes to interviews you don’t need to screen potential hires based on your core values. Instead you can screen for other factors.
  • During difficult times, it’s important to look at the things that are going right and try to brighten your current viewpoint. 
  • When you design a new space, you want to create a sense of community and belonging for everyone that lives there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

10:41 “If you think what attribute drives excellent customer service,it's the ability to care for those around you to put yourself in someone else's shoes.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:29 MIT

4:12 Verne Harnish

6:35 Uncommon Service by Frances Frei

10:34 John DiJulius

11:36 Danny Meyer

11:41 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

12:11 Ashley Goodall

12:15 Marcus Buckington

14:17 Southwest Airlines

30:46 Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

26:49 Jay-Z

37:19 Nicole Kidman

43:51 Jack Daily

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and leader with a passion for change. He’s the host of the podcast “Scaling Culture” and the author of a couple of books - Outrageous Empowerment & Scaling Culture. Ron Lovett is the Founder and Chief Community Officer at VIDA. Ron joins the host Dan Ryan to share his hospitality journey and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at building your business, you want to cut 10% of the company out and own 70% of that 10% that you saved for yourself. 
  • If you break down great customer service, it comes down to the ability to care for those around you and put yourself in their shoes.
  • If you are adding new members to your team, consider trying to find out how they would react to something in the real world. This way you can see who they are as a person instead of just hiring someone because they smile and seem nice.
  • You can’t teach empathy as a skill. It’s something that you are either born with or you won’t be able to learn the skill.
  • Having core values as a company is incredibly important as they are your guiding light, but when it comes to interviews you don’t need to screen potential hires based on your core values. Instead you can screen for other factors.
  • During difficult times, it’s important to look at the things that are going right and try to brighten your current viewpoint. 
  • When you design a new space, you want to create a sense of community and belonging for everyone that lives there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

10:41 “If you think what attribute drives excellent customer service,it's the ability to care for those around you to put yourself in someone else's shoes.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:29 MIT

4:12 Verne Harnish

6:35 Uncommon Service by Frances Frei

10:34 John DiJulius

11:36 Danny Meyer

11:41 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

12:11 Ashley Goodall

12:15 Marcus Buckington

14:17 Southwest Airlines

30:46 Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

26:49 Jay-Z

37:19 Nicole Kidman

43:51 Jack Daily

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3398 Today’s guest is an entrepreneur and leader with a passion for change. He’s the host of the podcast “Scaling Culture” and the author of a couple of books - Outrageous Empowerment & Scaling Culture. Ron Lovett is the Founder and Chief Community Officer at VIDA. Ron joins the host Dan Ryan to share his hospitality journey and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at building your business, you want to cut 10% of the company out and own 70% of that 10% that you saved for yourself. 
  • If you break down great customer service, it comes down to the ability to care for those around you and put yourself in their shoes.
  • If you are adding new members to your team, consider trying to find out how they would react to something in the real world. This way you can see who they are as a person instead of just hiring someone because they smile and seem nice.
  • You can’t teach empathy as a skill. It’s something that you are either born with or you won’t be able to learn the skill.
  • Having core values as a company is incredibly important as they are your guiding light, but when it comes to interviews you don’t need to screen potential hires based on your core values. Instead you can screen for other factors.
  • During difficult times, it’s important to look at the things that are going right and try to brighten your current viewpoint. 
  • When you design a new space, you want to create a sense of community and belonging for everyone that lives there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

10:41 “If you think what attribute drives excellent customer service,it's the ability to care for those around you to put yourself in someone else's shoes.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:29 MIT

4:12 Verne Harnish

6:35 Uncommon Service by Frances Frei

10:34 John DiJulius

11:36 Danny Meyer

11:41 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

12:11 Ashley Goodall

12:15 Marcus Buckington

14:17 Southwest Airlines

30:46 Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

26:49 Jay-Z

37:19 Nicole Kidman

43:51 Jack Daily

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Insatiable Curiosity - Valentina Castellon - Episode # 085 85 85 Insatiable Curiosity - Valentina Castellon - Episode # 085 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6dd4e355-704e-32d2-9317-c5806ff56357 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5f2d62d0 Today’s guest is an interior designer with a focus on and passionate about hospitality design. Valentina Castellon is the Principal and National Hospitality Design Leader at DLR Group based in Minneapolis. She enjoys seeing a project work its way from birth to completion. Valentina was also a Boutique 18 Inductee in 2020. Valentina joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey and thoughts about the hospitality industry in the built environment.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about opening up your home and yourself to provide a memorable experience for anyone who stays with you. 
  • The hospitality industry is not for everyone, as it requires long hours and a lot of attention to detail, but the people who stay are bit by the “hospitality bug” and want to bring great designs to other people's lives. 
  • Whenever you think about hotel design, it might look pretty but there is a deeper meaning to it. Not only is the design aspect important, but it needs to serve a functional purpose as well
  • Working in a  collaborative process allows you to get voices from multiple different avenues. This can help point you in the right direction for a design or give you more data points for what works and what doesn’t.
  • When working on designs for different companies or spaces, you don’t want to stay stagnant. You want your designs to be different and unique to the point that people will be asking who designed rather than it being the same design over and over again.
  • When you have an influx of demand, you have to think about the three C’s for your company; Your capacity to do the project, if it’s a creative fit for your company and if you like working with the clients.
  • Hospitality is a space that is meant to be shared and enjoyed by others. It allows you to reach people and their feelings all over the world and not just one particular area or group.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:15 “Hospitality for me is…this idea of really opening yourself up and catering to other people.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:17 Staci Patton

17:34 Dream Hotel Group

17:40 Hyatt

28:37 Bricklle, Miami

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an interior designer with a focus on and passionate about hospitality design. Valentina Castellon is the Principal and National Hospitality Design Leader at DLR Group based in Minneapolis. She enjoys seeing a project work its way from birth to completion. Valentina was also a Boutique 18 Inductee in 2020. Valentina joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey and thoughts about the hospitality industry in the built environment.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about opening up your home and yourself to provide a memorable experience for anyone who stays with you. 
  • The hospitality industry is not for everyone, as it requires long hours and a lot of attention to detail, but the people who stay are bit by the “hospitality bug” and want to bring great designs to other people's lives. 
  • Whenever you think about hotel design, it might look pretty but there is a deeper meaning to it. Not only is the design aspect important, but it needs to serve a functional purpose as well
  • Working in a  collaborative process allows you to get voices from multiple different avenues. This can help point you in the right direction for a design or give you more data points for what works and what doesn’t.
  • When working on designs for different companies or spaces, you don’t want to stay stagnant. You want your designs to be different and unique to the point that people will be asking who designed rather than it being the same design over and over again.
  • When you have an influx of demand, you have to think about the three C’s for your company; Your capacity to do the project, if it’s a creative fit for your company and if you like working with the clients.
  • Hospitality is a space that is meant to be shared and enjoyed by others. It allows you to reach people and their feelings all over the world and not just one particular area or group.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:15 “Hospitality for me is…this idea of really opening yourself up and catering to other people.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:17 Staci Patton

17:34 Dream Hotel Group

17:40 Hyatt

28:37 Bricklle, Miami

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 21 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2607 Today’s guest is an interior designer with a focus on and passionate about hospitality design. Valentina Castellon is the Principal and National Hospitality Design Leader at DLR Group based in Minneapolis. She enjoys seeing a project work its way from birth to completion. Valentina was also a Boutique 18 Inductee in 2020. Valentina joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey and thoughts about the hospitality industry in the built environment.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is all about opening up your home and yourself to provide a memorable experience for anyone who stays with you. 
  • The hospitality industry is not for everyone, as it requires long hours and a lot of attention to detail, but the people who stay are bit by the “hospitality bug” and want to bring great designs to other people's lives. 
  • Whenever you think about hotel design, it might look pretty but there is a deeper meaning to it. Not only is the design aspect important, but it needs to serve a functional purpose as well
  • Working in a  collaborative process allows you to get voices from multiple different avenues. This can help point you in the right direction for a design or give you more data points for what works and what doesn’t.
  • When working on designs for different companies or spaces, you don’t want to stay stagnant. You want your designs to be different and unique to the point that people will be asking who designed rather than it being the same design over and over again.
  • When you have an influx of demand, you have to think about the three C’s for your company; Your capacity to do the project, if it’s a creative fit for your company and if you like working with the clients.
  • Hospitality is a space that is meant to be shared and enjoyed by others. It allows you to reach people and their feelings all over the world and not just one particular area or group.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:15 “Hospitality for me is…this idea of really opening yourself up and catering to other people.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:17 Staci Patton

17:34 Dream Hotel Group

17:40 Hyatt

28:37 Bricklle, Miami

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Dream of Hospitality - Miriam Torres - Episode # 084 84 84 The Dream of Hospitality - Miriam Torres - Episode # 084 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/2e921db3-c52f-325e-880b-a11e0395c29a https://share.transistor.fm/s/0b38dd88 Today’s guest is a master at hospitality design. She is a 2022 Platinum Circle Inductee, as well as designing projects with major hotel brands from Four Seasons, to Fairmont, Marriott,  Ritz Carltons,  Sonesta, Hilton, Hyatt, and InterContinental, as well as independent hoteliers. Miriam Torres-Smalankas is the Co-owner and co-founder at Parker-Torres Design Inc. She joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the relationship between a guest and host. It’s the embodiment of caring and providing a welcoming environment where you share what you have with the guest. 
  • In all projects, there will be a lot of research that you need to do. The narrative or the story of the design space will drive the rest of the project and what it will look like. 
  • Hospitality design is the mother of all designs. The influence it has stretches from corporate, to healthcare, to education and all areas in between. 
  • The people who go into the hospitality world are very passionate about what they do, they don’t do it for the money but rather the love of creating something beautiful and memorable. 
  • When looking at expanding your team, consider hiring people that are better than you. You want them to motivate you to become better at what you do. 
  • When people start off in a new venture, they might think to themselves that they are a fraud or an imposter but you have to accept that you aren’t a fraud, but rather a strong and brave individual for taking a chance. 
  • Perseverance is an important trait to have in the hospitality industry. Others may tell you a design might not work but keep trying until you get it just right. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:21 “hospitality is the relationship between a guest and a host.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:37 Ken Hurd

4:49 Waldorf Astoria

5:19 Ritz-Carlton

6:43 Barbara Parker

8:29 Graham International

10:18 Hyatt

10:21 Fairmont Copley

10:25 Marriott Marquis

10:57 Henry David Thoreau

12:41 University of Massachusetts Amherst

12:51 MIT

14:43 Hilton

23:12 Cornell

30:54 Alan Benjamin

41:41 Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

44:51 Larry Summers

44:59 Barack Obama

45:02 Facebook


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a master at hospitality design. She is a 2022 Platinum Circle Inductee, as well as designing projects with major hotel brands from Four Seasons, to Fairmont, Marriott,  Ritz Carltons,  Sonesta, Hilton, Hyatt, and InterContinental, as well as independent hoteliers. Miriam Torres-Smalankas is the Co-owner and co-founder at Parker-Torres Design Inc. She joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the relationship between a guest and host. It’s the embodiment of caring and providing a welcoming environment where you share what you have with the guest. 
  • In all projects, there will be a lot of research that you need to do. The narrative or the story of the design space will drive the rest of the project and what it will look like. 
  • Hospitality design is the mother of all designs. The influence it has stretches from corporate, to healthcare, to education and all areas in between. 
  • The people who go into the hospitality world are very passionate about what they do, they don’t do it for the money but rather the love of creating something beautiful and memorable. 
  • When looking at expanding your team, consider hiring people that are better than you. You want them to motivate you to become better at what you do. 
  • When people start off in a new venture, they might think to themselves that they are a fraud or an imposter but you have to accept that you aren’t a fraud, but rather a strong and brave individual for taking a chance. 
  • Perseverance is an important trait to have in the hospitality industry. Others may tell you a design might not work but keep trying until you get it just right. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:21 “hospitality is the relationship between a guest and a host.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:37 Ken Hurd

4:49 Waldorf Astoria

5:19 Ritz-Carlton

6:43 Barbara Parker

8:29 Graham International

10:18 Hyatt

10:21 Fairmont Copley

10:25 Marriott Marquis

10:57 Henry David Thoreau

12:41 University of Massachusetts Amherst

12:51 MIT

14:43 Hilton

23:12 Cornell

30:54 Alan Benjamin

41:41 Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

44:51 Larry Summers

44:59 Barack Obama

45:02 Facebook


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 14 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3173 Today’s guest is a master at hospitality design. She is a 2022 Platinum Circle Inductee, as well as designing projects with major hotel brands from Four Seasons, to Fairmont, Marriott,  Ritz Carltons,  Sonesta, Hilton, Hyatt, and InterContinental, as well as independent hoteliers. Miriam Torres-Smalankas is the Co-owner and co-founder at Parker-Torres Design Inc. She joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is the relationship between a guest and host. It’s the embodiment of caring and providing a welcoming environment where you share what you have with the guest. 
  • In all projects, there will be a lot of research that you need to do. The narrative or the story of the design space will drive the rest of the project and what it will look like. 
  • Hospitality design is the mother of all designs. The influence it has stretches from corporate, to healthcare, to education and all areas in between. 
  • The people who go into the hospitality world are very passionate about what they do, they don’t do it for the money but rather the love of creating something beautiful and memorable. 
  • When looking at expanding your team, consider hiring people that are better than you. You want them to motivate you to become better at what you do. 
  • When people start off in a new venture, they might think to themselves that they are a fraud or an imposter but you have to accept that you aren’t a fraud, but rather a strong and brave individual for taking a chance. 
  • Perseverance is an important trait to have in the hospitality industry. Others may tell you a design might not work but keep trying until you get it just right. 

 

Quote of the Show:

2:21 “hospitality is the relationship between a guest and a host.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:37 Ken Hurd

4:49 Waldorf Astoria

5:19 Ritz-Carlton

6:43 Barbara Parker

8:29 Graham International

10:18 Hyatt

10:21 Fairmont Copley

10:25 Marriott Marquis

10:57 Henry David Thoreau

12:41 University of Massachusetts Amherst

12:51 MIT

14:43 Hilton

23:12 Cornell

30:54 Alan Benjamin

41:41 Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

44:51 Larry Summers

44:59 Barack Obama

45:02 Facebook


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Breaking the Design Mold - Andrew Alford - Episode # 083 83 83 Breaking the Design Mold - Andrew Alford - Episode # 083 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/679051e1-f9f6-359c-bafd-4371804eb827 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8a04b2d4 Today’s guest is a creative design sage. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, today’s guest is truly an expert in this field. Andrew Alford is the  Founder/Owner/Designer/ Chief Creative officer/chef/cook and bottle washer of Andrew Alford Creative.  Andrew worked his way from answering phones at a high-end residential design firm to leading his own company where he gets to let his true creativity shine. Andrew joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through design and hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The real innovation in hospitality comes from the people who grew up with little to nothing to their name. People like that grow up wanting a luxurious environment and want to give that idea of luxury to everyone.
  • Hotels should be an experience that helps lift away any suffering you have and transport you to a better state of mind. They are the backdrop to our most precious memories.
  • The whole objective for design is not to make something look good or to be a background in a selfie. The actual point is that design should be something that makes you stop and appreciate the beauty around you and be a transformative experience in itself.
  • A work life balance is something that is incredibly important and can help prevent you from feeling burnt out. You want to make sure that you aren’t working after your normal hours and set boundaries so that you can enjoy your work and not have it feel like a chore.
  • When it comes to design, you want to make sure that you stand out and that you are unique. The same bland, beige and boring designs won’t get noticed. If you are going to stand out like a unicorn, stand out like a unicorn in every way.
  • The word “interbeing” comes from a Buddaheist poet Thich Nhat Hanh. It describes the relationship between everything in the world and how it all works together in order to create the environment we see around us.
  • Design has been so serious for many years, and it’s time that the seriousness needs to be stopped and new, creative ideas need to be implemented. Every design doesn't have to copy something else that is already out there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:37 “Design [is] not to make it pretty, it's not a selfie background. It's a transformative experience.” 

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:41 Kimpton Hotels

5:22 IHG

9:44 Ed Labrano

13:25 Raptor roller coaster

14:46 SpringHill Suites by Marriott

26:25 Hospitality Design Summit

28:00 Alec Baldwin

41:58 American Utopia by David Byrne

43:18 Thich Nhat Hanh

45:14 Free Think

46:58 Star Trek

47:09 Reasons to be Cheerful

50:00 Soho House

50:20 Delano

50:21 Philippe Stark

50:32 Ace Hotels

53:10 Modern Elder Academy

53:12 Chip Conley

1:02:38 The Hoffman Process

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Today’s guest is a creative design sage. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, today’s guest is truly an expert in this field. Andrew Alford is the  Founder/Owner/Designer/ Chief Creative officer/chef/cook and bottle washer of Andrew Alford Creative.  Andrew worked his way from answering phones at a high-end residential design firm to leading his own company where he gets to let his true creativity shine. Andrew joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through design and hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The real innovation in hospitality comes from the people who grew up with little to nothing to their name. People like that grow up wanting a luxurious environment and want to give that idea of luxury to everyone.
  • Hotels should be an experience that helps lift away any suffering you have and transport you to a better state of mind. They are the backdrop to our most precious memories.
  • The whole objective for design is not to make something look good or to be a background in a selfie. The actual point is that design should be something that makes you stop and appreciate the beauty around you and be a transformative experience in itself.
  • A work life balance is something that is incredibly important and can help prevent you from feeling burnt out. You want to make sure that you aren’t working after your normal hours and set boundaries so that you can enjoy your work and not have it feel like a chore.
  • When it comes to design, you want to make sure that you stand out and that you are unique. The same bland, beige and boring designs won’t get noticed. If you are going to stand out like a unicorn, stand out like a unicorn in every way.
  • The word “interbeing” comes from a Buddaheist poet Thich Nhat Hanh. It describes the relationship between everything in the world and how it all works together in order to create the environment we see around us.
  • Design has been so serious for many years, and it’s time that the seriousness needs to be stopped and new, creative ideas need to be implemented. Every design doesn't have to copy something else that is already out there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:37 “Design [is] not to make it pretty, it's not a selfie background. It's a transformative experience.” 

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:41 Kimpton Hotels

5:22 IHG

9:44 Ed Labrano

13:25 Raptor roller coaster

14:46 SpringHill Suites by Marriott

26:25 Hospitality Design Summit

28:00 Alec Baldwin

41:58 American Utopia by David Byrne

43:18 Thich Nhat Hanh

45:14 Free Think

46:58 Star Trek

47:09 Reasons to be Cheerful

50:00 Soho House

50:20 Delano

50:21 Philippe Stark

50:32 Ace Hotels

53:10 Modern Elder Academy

53:12 Chip Conley

1:02:38 The Hoffman Process

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 07 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4278 Today’s guest is a creative design sage. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, today’s guest is truly an expert in this field. Andrew Alford is the  Founder/Owner/Designer/ Chief Creative officer/chef/cook and bottle washer of Andrew Alford Creative.  Andrew worked his way from answering phones at a high-end residential design firm to leading his own company where he gets to let his true creativity shine. Andrew joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through design and hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The real innovation in hospitality comes from the people who grew up with little to nothing to their name. People like that grow up wanting a luxurious environment and want to give that idea of luxury to everyone.
  • Hotels should be an experience that helps lift away any suffering you have and transport you to a better state of mind. They are the backdrop to our most precious memories.
  • The whole objective for design is not to make something look good or to be a background in a selfie. The actual point is that design should be something that makes you stop and appreciate the beauty around you and be a transformative experience in itself.
  • A work life balance is something that is incredibly important and can help prevent you from feeling burnt out. You want to make sure that you aren’t working after your normal hours and set boundaries so that you can enjoy your work and not have it feel like a chore.
  • When it comes to design, you want to make sure that you stand out and that you are unique. The same bland, beige and boring designs won’t get noticed. If you are going to stand out like a unicorn, stand out like a unicorn in every way.
  • The word “interbeing” comes from a Buddaheist poet Thich Nhat Hanh. It describes the relationship between everything in the world and how it all works together in order to create the environment we see around us.
  • Design has been so serious for many years, and it’s time that the seriousness needs to be stopped and new, creative ideas need to be implemented. Every design doesn't have to copy something else that is already out there. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:37 “Design [is] not to make it pretty, it's not a selfie background. It's a transformative experience.” 

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:41 Kimpton Hotels

5:22 IHG

9:44 Ed Labrano

13:25 Raptor roller coaster

14:46 SpringHill Suites by Marriott

26:25 Hospitality Design Summit

28:00 Alec Baldwin

41:58 American Utopia by David Byrne

43:18 Thich Nhat Hanh

45:14 Free Think

46:58 Star Trek

47:09 Reasons to be Cheerful

50:00 Soho House

50:20 Delano

50:21 Philippe Stark

50:32 Ace Hotels

53:10 Modern Elder Academy

53:12 Chip Conley

1:02:38 The Hoffman Process

 

Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Leading the Charge - Brian Quinn - Episode # 082 82 82 Leading the Charge - Brian Quinn - Episode # 082 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/bc9c2c25-a90e-3436-aa41-8b4bdc4379db https://share.transistor.fm/s/5323c3d6 Today’s guest is a recognized leader in domestic and international real estate, travel, lodging, and restaurant industries. He is a proven, articulate thought leader and has delivered exceptional results in the hospitality industry. Brian Quinn is the Chief Development Officer at Sonesta. Brian joins the host Dan Ryan to share what he had learned through his journey in the world of hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, everyone works together to help achieve a goal. A great design can only come to life if someone is willing to put it in their building. 
  • If you are an owner or operator of a hotel or hospitality business, you will bring a different level of energy and care to a project. You will be more focused on the return on investment in that aspect. 
  • In 2012 the RMR Group acquired hospitality spaces, bringing a whole new level of finance and real estate expertise into the hospitality industry.
  • During the COVID pandemic, there was a higher demand for extended stays and economy-style hotel stays as more people worked from home. 
  • The top three things that make Sonesta a good brand to join are the market availability, the access to an executive team, and the last piece is the owner lens. 
  • There are a few ways to underwrite a CapEx renovation; one is to think about what happens to your performance if you do nothing, and the other way is to check for any headroom in the market and see if you can perform better. 
  • Whether a recession comes or not, if unemployment remains low then people are going to spend their disposable income on dining, travel, and other hospitality experiences. 


Quote of the Show:

 

“Whether we technically go into a recession or not, if unemployment stays low, people are going to spend their disposable income on dining out and traveling.” - Brian Quinn


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:26 Holiday Inn 

7:17 The RMR Group

10:58 Marriott

11:00 IHG Hotels

12:00 John Murray

12:04 Keith Pierce

12:06 Wyndham

12:09 Red Lion 

13:58 Intercontinental

13:59 Kimpton Hotels

14:00 Crowne Plaza

14:01 Candlewood

14:02 Staybridge

19:26 Hilton

19:27 Statler

20:47 Jeremy Selman

23:50 The Benjamin

23:53 The Shelbourne

23:57 The Gardens

24:07 The James

33:04 Wells Fargo

33:09 Wachovia


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Today’s guest is a recognized leader in domestic and international real estate, travel, lodging, and restaurant industries. He is a proven, articulate thought leader and has delivered exceptional results in the hospitality industry. Brian Quinn is the Chief Development Officer at Sonesta. Brian joins the host Dan Ryan to share what he had learned through his journey in the world of hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, everyone works together to help achieve a goal. A great design can only come to life if someone is willing to put it in their building. 
  • If you are an owner or operator of a hotel or hospitality business, you will bring a different level of energy and care to a project. You will be more focused on the return on investment in that aspect. 
  • In 2012 the RMR Group acquired hospitality spaces, bringing a whole new level of finance and real estate expertise into the hospitality industry.
  • During the COVID pandemic, there was a higher demand for extended stays and economy-style hotel stays as more people worked from home. 
  • The top three things that make Sonesta a good brand to join are the market availability, the access to an executive team, and the last piece is the owner lens. 
  • There are a few ways to underwrite a CapEx renovation; one is to think about what happens to your performance if you do nothing, and the other way is to check for any headroom in the market and see if you can perform better. 
  • Whether a recession comes or not, if unemployment remains low then people are going to spend their disposable income on dining, travel, and other hospitality experiences. 


Quote of the Show:

 

“Whether we technically go into a recession or not, if unemployment stays low, people are going to spend their disposable income on dining out and traveling.” - Brian Quinn


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:26 Holiday Inn 

7:17 The RMR Group

10:58 Marriott

11:00 IHG Hotels

12:00 John Murray

12:04 Keith Pierce

12:06 Wyndham

12:09 Red Lion 

13:58 Intercontinental

13:59 Kimpton Hotels

14:00 Crowne Plaza

14:01 Candlewood

14:02 Staybridge

19:26 Hilton

19:27 Statler

20:47 Jeremy Selman

23:50 The Benjamin

23:53 The Shelbourne

23:57 The Gardens

24:07 The James

33:04 Wells Fargo

33:09 Wachovia


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:13:11 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3696 Today’s guest is a recognized leader in domestic and international real estate, travel, lodging, and restaurant industries. He is a proven, articulate thought leader and has delivered exceptional results in the hospitality industry. Brian Quinn is the Chief Development Officer at Sonesta. Brian joins the host Dan Ryan to share what he had learned through his journey in the world of hospitality.


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, everyone works together to help achieve a goal. A great design can only come to life if someone is willing to put it in their building. 
  • If you are an owner or operator of a hotel or hospitality business, you will bring a different level of energy and care to a project. You will be more focused on the return on investment in that aspect. 
  • In 2012 the RMR Group acquired hospitality spaces, bringing a whole new level of finance and real estate expertise into the hospitality industry.
  • During the COVID pandemic, there was a higher demand for extended stays and economy-style hotel stays as more people worked from home. 
  • The top three things that make Sonesta a good brand to join are the market availability, the access to an executive team, and the last piece is the owner lens. 
  • There are a few ways to underwrite a CapEx renovation; one is to think about what happens to your performance if you do nothing, and the other way is to check for any headroom in the market and see if you can perform better. 
  • Whether a recession comes or not, if unemployment remains low then people are going to spend their disposable income on dining, travel, and other hospitality experiences. 


Quote of the Show:

 

“Whether we technically go into a recession or not, if unemployment stays low, people are going to spend their disposable income on dining out and traveling.” - Brian Quinn


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:26 Holiday Inn 

7:17 The RMR Group

10:58 Marriott

11:00 IHG Hotels

12:00 John Murray

12:04 Keith Pierce

12:06 Wyndham

12:09 Red Lion 

13:58 Intercontinental

13:59 Kimpton Hotels

14:00 Crowne Plaza

14:01 Candlewood

14:02 Staybridge

19:26 Hilton

19:27 Statler

20:47 Jeremy Selman

23:50 The Benjamin

23:53 The Shelbourne

23:57 The Gardens

24:07 The James

33:04 Wells Fargo

33:09 Wachovia


Ways to Tune In: 


]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Learning From the Team - Oswaldo Barrios - Episode # 081 81 81 Learning From the Team - Oswaldo Barrios - Episode # 081 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/120655a3-eaf6-3213-a327-5d26a77f6b3f https://share.transistor.fm/s/b1eb8cde Today’s guest is a hospitality guru. He’s an innovative industry leader who is an architect by training as well as a raving fan of interior design. Oswaldo Barrios is the Senior Director of Design & Project Management Luxury Brands at Marriott International. After getting a degree in Architecture in Venezuela, he started from the bottom and worked his way to a very important role at Marriott. Oswaldo joins the host Dan Ryan to share more about his journey through hospitality and how he sees this industry through his eyes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When it comes to the hospitality industry, it’s ok to question why things are done in a certain way. This can lead to a new emergence of ideas or help to create a beautiful space. 
  • Hospitality is a combination of multiple different senses, ranging from how you feel about something and the experience that you are getting out of a space, to how the space feels and smells. It’s a very carefully done process to bring out the best in any space. 
  • Putting together a memorable space and experience is almost like being on a stage. You want to make sure that all the pieces are in the right spaces and that everyone is doing their part to make it run smoothly.
  • There is a certain level of detail that goes into hospitality that overlaps with architecture as well. These two aspects can be combined to help create a memorable experience in a space that evokes an emotional response. 
  • It’s important for everybody to know their role in a design project and to protect that role because if you don’t then you can end up with a mishmash of ideas and the piece won’t be as creative or strong.
  • The hardest part of any design project is getting the teams and donors to understand the non-public areas that you need to serve as a product. 
  • When it comes to working on a hotel, you develop a really strong relationship with everyone who was a part of the project.

 

Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a combination between what you feel and the experience that you get into the space." - Oswaldo Barrios 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:41 Ian Schrager

0:52 Edition Hotels

5:54 Grammercy Park Hotel

22:04 Mies van der Rohe

48:49 Arne Sorenson 

51:22 Starwood


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a hospitality guru. He’s an innovative industry leader who is an architect by training as well as a raving fan of interior design. Oswaldo Barrios is the Senior Director of Design & Project Management Luxury Brands at Marriott International. After getting a degree in Architecture in Venezuela, he started from the bottom and worked his way to a very important role at Marriott. Oswaldo joins the host Dan Ryan to share more about his journey through hospitality and how he sees this industry through his eyes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When it comes to the hospitality industry, it’s ok to question why things are done in a certain way. This can lead to a new emergence of ideas or help to create a beautiful space. 
  • Hospitality is a combination of multiple different senses, ranging from how you feel about something and the experience that you are getting out of a space, to how the space feels and smells. It’s a very carefully done process to bring out the best in any space. 
  • Putting together a memorable space and experience is almost like being on a stage. You want to make sure that all the pieces are in the right spaces and that everyone is doing their part to make it run smoothly.
  • There is a certain level of detail that goes into hospitality that overlaps with architecture as well. These two aspects can be combined to help create a memorable experience in a space that evokes an emotional response. 
  • It’s important for everybody to know their role in a design project and to protect that role because if you don’t then you can end up with a mishmash of ideas and the piece won’t be as creative or strong.
  • The hardest part of any design project is getting the teams and donors to understand the non-public areas that you need to serve as a product. 
  • When it comes to working on a hotel, you develop a really strong relationship with everyone who was a part of the project.

 

Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a combination between what you feel and the experience that you get into the space." - Oswaldo Barrios 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:41 Ian Schrager

0:52 Edition Hotels

5:54 Grammercy Park Hotel

22:04 Mies van der Rohe

48:49 Arne Sorenson 

51:22 Starwood


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3594 Today’s guest is a hospitality guru. He’s an innovative industry leader who is an architect by training as well as a raving fan of interior design. Oswaldo Barrios is the Senior Director of Design & Project Management Luxury Brands at Marriott International. After getting a degree in Architecture in Venezuela, he started from the bottom and worked his way to a very important role at Marriott. Oswaldo joins the host Dan Ryan to share more about his journey through hospitality and how he sees this industry through his eyes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When it comes to the hospitality industry, it’s ok to question why things are done in a certain way. This can lead to a new emergence of ideas or help to create a beautiful space. 
  • Hospitality is a combination of multiple different senses, ranging from how you feel about something and the experience that you are getting out of a space, to how the space feels and smells. It’s a very carefully done process to bring out the best in any space. 
  • Putting together a memorable space and experience is almost like being on a stage. You want to make sure that all the pieces are in the right spaces and that everyone is doing their part to make it run smoothly.
  • There is a certain level of detail that goes into hospitality that overlaps with architecture as well. These two aspects can be combined to help create a memorable experience in a space that evokes an emotional response. 
  • It’s important for everybody to know their role in a design project and to protect that role because if you don’t then you can end up with a mishmash of ideas and the piece won’t be as creative or strong.
  • The hardest part of any design project is getting the teams and donors to understand the non-public areas that you need to serve as a product. 
  • When it comes to working on a hotel, you develop a really strong relationship with everyone who was a part of the project.

 

Quote of the Show:

"Hospitality is a combination between what you feel and the experience that you get into the space." - Oswaldo Barrios 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:41 Ian Schrager

0:52 Edition Hotels

5:54 Grammercy Park Hotel

22:04 Mies van der Rohe

48:49 Arne Sorenson 

51:22 Starwood


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Alchemy of Collaboration - Jeremy Selman - Episode # 080 80 80 The Alchemy of Collaboration - Jeremy Selman - Episode # 080 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/babe5335-ce3e-3c28-bd61-4d9659ce53a7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2daf22c9 Today’s guest is a hospitality champion and an ingenious thought leader. He is a lifestyle hotel advisor and entrepreneur. Jeremy Selman is the Principal at Fishtown Collective and HN Capital Partners. Jeremy is breaking the mold of luxury for hospitality and wants to give each guest an experience that is unique to them and brings a smile to their face. Jeremy joins the host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts about the hospitality industry and what it means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • In hospitality, you are touching upon all human needs. In a hotel, you are given the opportunity to provide a holistic experience to every guest in a way that dining can’t reach.
  • The traditional standard of luxury was where the brand defined what luxury was and delivered that in a formulaic way. Jeremy is focusing on the ability to read a guest and understand what will make them smile. 
  • A hotelier is similar to a conductor or producer on a movie set in the sense that they manage the big-picture items going on. Hoteliers' taste often changes with age as well, so you shouldn’t base your designs on taste at the exact moment. 
  • Being a hotelier requires a high level of collaboration in order to make sure everything runs smoothly. If everyone isn’t on the same page or rowing in the same direction, then the end goal can’t be achieved. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you can’t be afraid to try new ideas. Not everything will work, but it’s worth pioneering and trying to see if there is a new way to uplift an old project or create a new idea from scratch. 
  • When going into a new market, you have to really believe that you can get people to buy into what you are presenting and reach the goal of having a beautiful space that all can enjoy. 
  • Jeremy is excited about the challenge of balancing technology and service in the hospitality industry. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“I think culture is something that needs to be openly spoken about and talk.” - Jeremy Selman

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

6:13 The Nomad

6:22 The Line in DC and LA

15:18 Hotel Per La

15:23 Adam Sydenham 

21:01 Danny Meyer

29:30 Scott Rudin

28:23 Daniel Del Olmo

38:45 Vipin Nambiar

43:48 Michael Eisner

44:08 Gary Berman

44:09 Berman Falk

52:52 Amazon

52:53 Jeff Bezos

53:20 Mark Zuckerberg


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a hospitality champion and an ingenious thought leader. He is a lifestyle hotel advisor and entrepreneur. Jeremy Selman is the Principal at Fishtown Collective and HN Capital Partners. Jeremy is breaking the mold of luxury for hospitality and wants to give each guest an experience that is unique to them and brings a smile to their face. Jeremy joins the host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts about the hospitality industry and what it means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • In hospitality, you are touching upon all human needs. In a hotel, you are given the opportunity to provide a holistic experience to every guest in a way that dining can’t reach.
  • The traditional standard of luxury was where the brand defined what luxury was and delivered that in a formulaic way. Jeremy is focusing on the ability to read a guest and understand what will make them smile. 
  • A hotelier is similar to a conductor or producer on a movie set in the sense that they manage the big-picture items going on. Hoteliers' taste often changes with age as well, so you shouldn’t base your designs on taste at the exact moment. 
  • Being a hotelier requires a high level of collaboration in order to make sure everything runs smoothly. If everyone isn’t on the same page or rowing in the same direction, then the end goal can’t be achieved. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you can’t be afraid to try new ideas. Not everything will work, but it’s worth pioneering and trying to see if there is a new way to uplift an old project or create a new idea from scratch. 
  • When going into a new market, you have to really believe that you can get people to buy into what you are presenting and reach the goal of having a beautiful space that all can enjoy. 
  • Jeremy is excited about the challenge of balancing technology and service in the hospitality industry. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“I think culture is something that needs to be openly spoken about and talk.” - Jeremy Selman

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

6:13 The Nomad

6:22 The Line in DC and LA

15:18 Hotel Per La

15:23 Adam Sydenham 

21:01 Danny Meyer

29:30 Scott Rudin

28:23 Daniel Del Olmo

38:45 Vipin Nambiar

43:48 Michael Eisner

44:08 Gary Berman

44:09 Berman Falk

52:52 Amazon

52:53 Jeff Bezos

53:20 Mark Zuckerberg


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:56:37 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3728 Today’s guest is a hospitality champion and an ingenious thought leader. He is a lifestyle hotel advisor and entrepreneur. Jeremy Selman is the Principal at Fishtown Collective and HN Capital Partners. Jeremy is breaking the mold of luxury for hospitality and wants to give each guest an experience that is unique to them and brings a smile to their face. Jeremy joins the host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts about the hospitality industry and what it means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • In hospitality, you are touching upon all human needs. In a hotel, you are given the opportunity to provide a holistic experience to every guest in a way that dining can’t reach.
  • The traditional standard of luxury was where the brand defined what luxury was and delivered that in a formulaic way. Jeremy is focusing on the ability to read a guest and understand what will make them smile. 
  • A hotelier is similar to a conductor or producer on a movie set in the sense that they manage the big-picture items going on. Hoteliers' taste often changes with age as well, so you shouldn’t base your designs on taste at the exact moment. 
  • Being a hotelier requires a high level of collaboration in order to make sure everything runs smoothly. If everyone isn’t on the same page or rowing in the same direction, then the end goal can’t be achieved. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you can’t be afraid to try new ideas. Not everything will work, but it’s worth pioneering and trying to see if there is a new way to uplift an old project or create a new idea from scratch. 
  • When going into a new market, you have to really believe that you can get people to buy into what you are presenting and reach the goal of having a beautiful space that all can enjoy. 
  • Jeremy is excited about the challenge of balancing technology and service in the hospitality industry. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“I think culture is something that needs to be openly spoken about and talk.” - Jeremy Selman

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

6:13 The Nomad

6:22 The Line in DC and LA

15:18 Hotel Per La

15:23 Adam Sydenham 

21:01 Danny Meyer

29:30 Scott Rudin

28:23 Daniel Del Olmo

38:45 Vipin Nambiar

43:48 Michael Eisner

44:08 Gary Berman

44:09 Berman Falk

52:52 Amazon

52:53 Jeff Bezos

53:20 Mark Zuckerberg


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan First Party Management - Scott Hammons - Episode # 079 79 79 First Party Management - Scott Hammons - Episode # 079 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/4fe49c9f-2d34-386b-af73-58eeb1bce663 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c9047eba Today’s guest is an expert in conducting the symphony of insanity of what it takes to open a hotel. He’s a hospitality leader in the Luxury, Full Service, Select Service, Branded, and Independent hotel spaces and is well-versed in the various needs and variables in all sectors. Scott Hammons is the President of Design and Construction of HEI. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The way the market is right now if a hotel is going to acquire that is because there is room to improve the hotel or reinvent it. This can happen when a branded hotel gets bought by another company or when it goes independent.
  • First-party project management is a term that Scott has coined to describe his new company, Ground Floor Hospitality. It’s a subsidiary of HEI but he refers to it as “first-party project management” because he oversees the whole project rather than someone he is not affiliated with.
  • The hospitality industry is such a dynamic industry. It evokes so many different emotions and uses all 5 senses in order to create an unforgettable experience.
  • Being in an entrepreneurial environment allows for more flexibility for new operations and provides room for growth in process improvements.  
  • Scott is excited about the diverse opportunities in the hospitality industry. There are many different aspects of hospitality that you can branch into and each project is its own experience. 
  • You want to find a space where when you go to work every day, it doesn’t feel like a typical work day or feel draining. You want to work in a place where you find yourself being passionate about what you do. 
  • If you are a mentor, you want to prepare your team leaders or other people in your company for a meeting they are about to walk into but still make them walk in the meeting. This will help them to prepare and feel more comfortable for what will happen during that time. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“There's no business like the hospitality business.” - Scott Hammons

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:51 Aaron Anderson

1:35 Josh Pearlman

15:02 Mohawk Mountain House

17:40 Kimpton

17:47 Schrager

19:35 Marriot

29:19 Mark Wilson

29:20 Yoko Ishihara

33:05 Clark Henrati

49:51 Christopher Nassetta

51:42 Avengers Infinity War

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an expert in conducting the symphony of insanity of what it takes to open a hotel. He’s a hospitality leader in the Luxury, Full Service, Select Service, Branded, and Independent hotel spaces and is well-versed in the various needs and variables in all sectors. Scott Hammons is the President of Design and Construction of HEI. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The way the market is right now if a hotel is going to acquire that is because there is room to improve the hotel or reinvent it. This can happen when a branded hotel gets bought by another company or when it goes independent.
  • First-party project management is a term that Scott has coined to describe his new company, Ground Floor Hospitality. It’s a subsidiary of HEI but he refers to it as “first-party project management” because he oversees the whole project rather than someone he is not affiliated with.
  • The hospitality industry is such a dynamic industry. It evokes so many different emotions and uses all 5 senses in order to create an unforgettable experience.
  • Being in an entrepreneurial environment allows for more flexibility for new operations and provides room for growth in process improvements.  
  • Scott is excited about the diverse opportunities in the hospitality industry. There are many different aspects of hospitality that you can branch into and each project is its own experience. 
  • You want to find a space where when you go to work every day, it doesn’t feel like a typical work day or feel draining. You want to work in a place where you find yourself being passionate about what you do. 
  • If you are a mentor, you want to prepare your team leaders or other people in your company for a meeting they are about to walk into but still make them walk in the meeting. This will help them to prepare and feel more comfortable for what will happen during that time. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“There's no business like the hospitality business.” - Scott Hammons

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:51 Aaron Anderson

1:35 Josh Pearlman

15:02 Mohawk Mountain House

17:40 Kimpton

17:47 Schrager

19:35 Marriot

29:19 Mark Wilson

29:20 Yoko Ishihara

33:05 Clark Henrati

49:51 Christopher Nassetta

51:42 Avengers Infinity War

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:50:29 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3516 Today’s guest is an expert in conducting the symphony of insanity of what it takes to open a hotel. He’s a hospitality leader in the Luxury, Full Service, Select Service, Branded, and Independent hotel spaces and is well-versed in the various needs and variables in all sectors. Scott Hammons is the President of Design and Construction of HEI. Scott joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The way the market is right now if a hotel is going to acquire that is because there is room to improve the hotel or reinvent it. This can happen when a branded hotel gets bought by another company or when it goes independent.
  • First-party project management is a term that Scott has coined to describe his new company, Ground Floor Hospitality. It’s a subsidiary of HEI but he refers to it as “first-party project management” because he oversees the whole project rather than someone he is not affiliated with.
  • The hospitality industry is such a dynamic industry. It evokes so many different emotions and uses all 5 senses in order to create an unforgettable experience.
  • Being in an entrepreneurial environment allows for more flexibility for new operations and provides room for growth in process improvements.  
  • Scott is excited about the diverse opportunities in the hospitality industry. There are many different aspects of hospitality that you can branch into and each project is its own experience. 
  • You want to find a space where when you go to work every day, it doesn’t feel like a typical work day or feel draining. You want to work in a place where you find yourself being passionate about what you do. 
  • If you are a mentor, you want to prepare your team leaders or other people in your company for a meeting they are about to walk into but still make them walk in the meeting. This will help them to prepare and feel more comfortable for what will happen during that time. 

 

Quote of the Show:

“There's no business like the hospitality business.” - Scott Hammons

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:51 Aaron Anderson

1:35 Josh Pearlman

15:02 Mohawk Mountain House

17:40 Kimpton

17:47 Schrager

19:35 Marriot

29:19 Mark Wilson

29:20 Yoko Ishihara

33:05 Clark Henrati

49:51 Christopher Nassetta

51:42 Avengers Infinity War

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Setting the Tone - Kavitha Iyer - Episode # 078 78 78 Setting the Tone - Kavitha Iyer - Episode # 078 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ac12ccb8-603e-3da1-934c-a71efe687524 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1b49d67f Today’s guest is a hospitality hero to many in the industry. She is highly skilled at architectural design and believes good design is good business. Kavitha Iyer is the Head Of Design Strategies for the Americas 14 out of the 17 global brands at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. Kavitha joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Just because something has been done before doesn’t mean that it’s right. Different people can have different ideas and you can always improve upon something that has already been done. 
  • It’s important to make your designs feel like they enrich the lives of those who come into the space and also find a way to give back to the community that is hosting your space.
  • When you are living in a community, you are not just a guest but you are a part of the community and you welcome others in as well. 
  • Hospitality is being generous with your time and sensibilities. Doing this will bring joy to those around you that you can notice in the little moments by their smile or by helping them discover something new. 
  • You want to make people feel like they are wanted. It’s more than just making them feel relevant, you have to make them feel like they are special as they walk through the door.
  • In the Indian culture, there is a phrase “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means “Guest is God”. This speaks to hospitality is built into the Indian culture and something that all hotels and restaurants can take note of. 
  • You want to think about what you bring to the table in terms of design and how unique it is. The more unique your style is the more likely you are to find a place that will appreciate that.

 

Quote of the Show:

16:10  “I think that's what hospitality is, you are generous with your time and you're generous with your sensibilities.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:50 University of Madras

22:17 Damon Lawrence

30:17 Frank Lloyd Wright

35:11 Plato’s Republic

52:19 David Bowie

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a hospitality hero to many in the industry. She is highly skilled at architectural design and believes good design is good business. Kavitha Iyer is the Head Of Design Strategies for the Americas 14 out of the 17 global brands at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. Kavitha joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Just because something has been done before doesn’t mean that it’s right. Different people can have different ideas and you can always improve upon something that has already been done. 
  • It’s important to make your designs feel like they enrich the lives of those who come into the space and also find a way to give back to the community that is hosting your space.
  • When you are living in a community, you are not just a guest but you are a part of the community and you welcome others in as well. 
  • Hospitality is being generous with your time and sensibilities. Doing this will bring joy to those around you that you can notice in the little moments by their smile or by helping them discover something new. 
  • You want to make people feel like they are wanted. It’s more than just making them feel relevant, you have to make them feel like they are special as they walk through the door.
  • In the Indian culture, there is a phrase “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means “Guest is God”. This speaks to hospitality is built into the Indian culture and something that all hotels and restaurants can take note of. 
  • You want to think about what you bring to the table in terms of design and how unique it is. The more unique your style is the more likely you are to find a place that will appreciate that.

 

Quote of the Show:

16:10  “I think that's what hospitality is, you are generous with your time and you're generous with your sensibilities.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:50 University of Madras

22:17 Damon Lawrence

30:17 Frank Lloyd Wright

35:11 Plato’s Republic

52:19 David Bowie

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3767 Today’s guest is a hospitality hero to many in the industry. She is highly skilled at architectural design and believes good design is good business. Kavitha Iyer is the Head Of Design Strategies for the Americas 14 out of the 17 global brands at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. Kavitha joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Just because something has been done before doesn’t mean that it’s right. Different people can have different ideas and you can always improve upon something that has already been done. 
  • It’s important to make your designs feel like they enrich the lives of those who come into the space and also find a way to give back to the community that is hosting your space.
  • When you are living in a community, you are not just a guest but you are a part of the community and you welcome others in as well. 
  • Hospitality is being generous with your time and sensibilities. Doing this will bring joy to those around you that you can notice in the little moments by their smile or by helping them discover something new. 
  • You want to make people feel like they are wanted. It’s more than just making them feel relevant, you have to make them feel like they are special as they walk through the door.
  • In the Indian culture, there is a phrase “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means “Guest is God”. This speaks to hospitality is built into the Indian culture and something that all hotels and restaurants can take note of. 
  • You want to think about what you bring to the table in terms of design and how unique it is. The more unique your style is the more likely you are to find a place that will appreciate that.

 

Quote of the Show:

16:10  “I think that's what hospitality is, you are generous with your time and you're generous with your sensibilities.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

3:50 University of Madras

22:17 Damon Lawrence

30:17 Frank Lloyd Wright

35:11 Plato’s Republic

52:19 David Bowie

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Little Moments Are The Most Precious - Will Guidara - Episode # 077 77 77 The Little Moments Are The Most Precious - Will Guidara - Episode # 077 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/58765529-4d8c-373c-9760-2ee5531b7bdf https://share.transistor.fm/s/8c2696f6 Today’s guest has been immersed in the hospitality industry since the age of 13. Will Guidara is the author of many books, including a new one called “Unreasonable Hospitality”. Will has been trained in the dining rooms of Tribeca Grill, Spago, and Tabla and opened the restaurants at the Museum of Modern Art. Will joins the host Dan Ryan to discuss his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Will has always had a passion for creating spaces where people can get together and enjoy being around friends and family. This is part of what led him to be in the hospitality industry. 
  • America used to be a manufacturing economy but now 65% of our GDP is driven by the service industry. This means we have shifted the focus of our economy to be in the service industry and provide people with memorable experiences of hospitality.
  • The culture of your company is a living, breathing tangible thing. It’s not just part of a checklist; if you don’t live by the cultures of your company, then the culture will die.
  • The best way to talk about hospitality is to compare it to service. Service is bringing the right plate to the right person on time but hospitality is how you make them feel when you bring them their food. 
  • Your values transcend everything. If you bring your values to the front and make them a core part of who you are, then those values will drive you and help you succeed. 
  • Don’t be afraid to look at yourself and tell yourself that you can handle anything that comes your way.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:24 “It has always brought me joy to create spaces where people can come together.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:36 The Nomad

05:47 Simon Sinek

25:39 James Corden

25:43 Balthazar

25:51 Keith McNally

36:09 Rookie Smarts by Liz Wiseman

Eleven Madison Park


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has been immersed in the hospitality industry since the age of 13. Will Guidara is the author of many books, including a new one called “Unreasonable Hospitality”. Will has been trained in the dining rooms of Tribeca Grill, Spago, and Tabla and opened the restaurants at the Museum of Modern Art. Will joins the host Dan Ryan to discuss his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Will has always had a passion for creating spaces where people can get together and enjoy being around friends and family. This is part of what led him to be in the hospitality industry. 
  • America used to be a manufacturing economy but now 65% of our GDP is driven by the service industry. This means we have shifted the focus of our economy to be in the service industry and provide people with memorable experiences of hospitality.
  • The culture of your company is a living, breathing tangible thing. It’s not just part of a checklist; if you don’t live by the cultures of your company, then the culture will die.
  • The best way to talk about hospitality is to compare it to service. Service is bringing the right plate to the right person on time but hospitality is how you make them feel when you bring them their food. 
  • Your values transcend everything. If you bring your values to the front and make them a core part of who you are, then those values will drive you and help you succeed. 
  • Don’t be afraid to look at yourself and tell yourself that you can handle anything that comes your way.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:24 “It has always brought me joy to create spaces where people can come together.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:36 The Nomad

05:47 Simon Sinek

25:39 James Corden

25:43 Balthazar

25:51 Keith McNally

36:09 Rookie Smarts by Liz Wiseman

Eleven Madison Park


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2597 Today’s guest has been immersed in the hospitality industry since the age of 13. Will Guidara is the author of many books, including a new one called “Unreasonable Hospitality”. Will has been trained in the dining rooms of Tribeca Grill, Spago, and Tabla and opened the restaurants at the Museum of Modern Art. Will joins the host Dan Ryan to discuss his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Having board games along with fine dining provides an experience that makes the guest feel comfortable and at home. It reminds them of home-cooked meals and time with family and friends.
  • Will has always had a passion for creating spaces where people can get together and enjoy being around friends and family. This is part of what led him to be in the hospitality industry. 
  • America used to be a manufacturing economy but now 65% of our GDP is driven by the service industry. This means we have shifted the focus of our economy to be in the service industry and provide people with memorable experiences of hospitality.
  • The culture of your company is a living, breathing tangible thing. It’s not just part of a checklist; if you don’t live by the cultures of your company, then the culture will die.
  • The best way to talk about hospitality is to compare it to service. Service is bringing the right plate to the right person on time but hospitality is how you make them feel when you bring them their food. 
  • Your values transcend everything. If you bring your values to the front and make them a core part of who you are, then those values will drive you and help you succeed. 
  • Don’t be afraid to look at yourself and tell yourself that you can handle anything that comes your way.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:24 “It has always brought me joy to create spaces where people can come together.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:36 The Nomad

05:47 Simon Sinek

25:39 James Corden

25:43 Balthazar

25:51 Keith McNally

36:09 Rookie Smarts by Liz Wiseman

Eleven Madison Park


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Getting Over the Speed Bump - Geoffrey Cramer - Episode # 076 76 76 Getting Over the Speed Bump - Geoffrey Cramer - Episode # 076 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1b601dad-eb23-30bd-8116-cb479ad2f48f https://share.transistor.fm/s/9aad13b5 Today’s guest has worked on big and small projects, from multimillion-dollar resorts to small home renovations and everything in between. Geoffrey Cramer is the Partner at Murphy Cramer Design. Geoffrey is passionate about creating distinctive architecture and interiors for private and corporate clients. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • At the end of the day, you have to be willing to take a chance on yourself and know that you will find the solution to whatever problem you face. 
  • Don’t be in a place where you think you have the answer to a conversation. Build up the courage to ask a question and don’t be afraid to hear the answer.
  • It’s better to take your time on a  design project and push the deadline out further to show something beautiful rather than force everyone to meet tight deadlines and turn in an average-looking design. 
  • The work that is done on a project is just as important as the content. You always want to put all your effort into every design project and make it a welcoming space. 
  • When it comes to hospitality, it is all about providing strangers and guests with a sense of comfort and a warm, friendly, and welcoming environment. 
  • You want to slowly shift your focus as new opportunities arise. This will allow you to be more adept in different areas and hone new skills. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you want to try and predict your guest's needs ahead of time and anticipate what they might want in a certain situation and have that ready for them.

 

Quote of the Show:

19:05 “Really it's being or providing strangers or guests, kind of this comfortable, warm, friendly, welcoming sort of experience.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

2:58 Morgan Brody

4:29 Pat Murphy

4:30 Susan Seifert

5:44 Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

8:26 Helen Jorgenson

8:28 Venus Williams

11:00 Hilton

12:01 Larry Traxler

24:49 The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

37:07 IHG

37:09 Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has worked on big and small projects, from multimillion-dollar resorts to small home renovations and everything in between. Geoffrey Cramer is the Partner at Murphy Cramer Design. Geoffrey is passionate about creating distinctive architecture and interiors for private and corporate clients. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • At the end of the day, you have to be willing to take a chance on yourself and know that you will find the solution to whatever problem you face. 
  • Don’t be in a place where you think you have the answer to a conversation. Build up the courage to ask a question and don’t be afraid to hear the answer.
  • It’s better to take your time on a  design project and push the deadline out further to show something beautiful rather than force everyone to meet tight deadlines and turn in an average-looking design. 
  • The work that is done on a project is just as important as the content. You always want to put all your effort into every design project and make it a welcoming space. 
  • When it comes to hospitality, it is all about providing strangers and guests with a sense of comfort and a warm, friendly, and welcoming environment. 
  • You want to slowly shift your focus as new opportunities arise. This will allow you to be more adept in different areas and hone new skills. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you want to try and predict your guest's needs ahead of time and anticipate what they might want in a certain situation and have that ready for them.

 

Quote of the Show:

19:05 “Really it's being or providing strangers or guests, kind of this comfortable, warm, friendly, welcoming sort of experience.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

2:58 Morgan Brody

4:29 Pat Murphy

4:30 Susan Seifert

5:44 Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

8:26 Helen Jorgenson

8:28 Venus Williams

11:00 Hilton

12:01 Larry Traxler

24:49 The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

37:07 IHG

37:09 Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3432 Today’s guest has worked on big and small projects, from multimillion-dollar resorts to small home renovations and everything in between. Geoffrey Cramer is the Partner at Murphy Cramer Design. Geoffrey is passionate about creating distinctive architecture and interiors for private and corporate clients. He joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through hospitality and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • At the end of the day, you have to be willing to take a chance on yourself and know that you will find the solution to whatever problem you face. 
  • Don’t be in a place where you think you have the answer to a conversation. Build up the courage to ask a question and don’t be afraid to hear the answer.
  • It’s better to take your time on a  design project and push the deadline out further to show something beautiful rather than force everyone to meet tight deadlines and turn in an average-looking design. 
  • The work that is done on a project is just as important as the content. You always want to put all your effort into every design project and make it a welcoming space. 
  • When it comes to hospitality, it is all about providing strangers and guests with a sense of comfort and a warm, friendly, and welcoming environment. 
  • You want to slowly shift your focus as new opportunities arise. This will allow you to be more adept in different areas and hone new skills. 
  • In the hospitality industry, you want to try and predict your guest's needs ahead of time and anticipate what they might want in a certain situation and have that ready for them.

 

Quote of the Show:

19:05 “Really it's being or providing strangers or guests, kind of this comfortable, warm, friendly, welcoming sort of experience.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

2:58 Morgan Brody

4:29 Pat Murphy

4:30 Susan Seifert

5:44 Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

8:26 Helen Jorgenson

8:28 Venus Williams

11:00 Hilton

12:01 Larry Traxler

24:49 The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

37:07 IHG

37:09 Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Place of Belonging - Alexandra Cole - Episode # 075 75 75 A Place of Belonging - Alexandra Cole - Episode # 075 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/65a7bdbf-7d03-3e34-81cd-81cf2e8d77ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/c9bbb428 Today’s guest is an industry innovator who uses her talented mind to create beautiful spaces. Alexandra Cole is the Principal and US Managing Director at DesignAgency. Alexandra is incredibly skilled at Interior design and running teams across many different timezones. She joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • After discovering that she has dyslexia, Alexandra looked forward to the creative arts in school and she found the arts to be a creative outlet.
  • Hospitality is the feeling of welcoming, accepting, and coming together and sharing experiences with people. 
  • There are certain scenarios that exude hospitality like a nice warm farm and a comfortable couch and armchairs. These are part of the overarching feeling of having a space where you feel like you belong.
  • The “instagramable moments” are a faux pa in the design world. You don’t make designs to be seen on Instagram, you make designs that are comfortable and make the guest feel warm and invited. 
  • It’s always a good idea to push the envelop of curiosity and try to increase your knowledge about your industry and the world around you.
  • Coming out of COVID, there has been a lot of opportunities in the hospitality industry for branded spaces to really take off. 
  • People will get used to certain brands and staying at the same hotels because it provides them with a sense of familiarity and a feeling of welcomness. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:17  “It's really kind of about that feeling of welcoming and acceptance and the coming together of experiences and people.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:18 Dune

6:08 Vito Lotta

6:09 Hilton

23:49 Ennismore

23:50 Hoxton

24:03 David Collins

24:38 The Connaught Bar

25:00 Ritz-Carlton

26:15 Aliya Khan

36:36 ILC

44:28 Bentley Residences

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is an industry innovator who uses her talented mind to create beautiful spaces. Alexandra Cole is the Principal and US Managing Director at DesignAgency. Alexandra is incredibly skilled at Interior design and running teams across many different timezones. She joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • After discovering that she has dyslexia, Alexandra looked forward to the creative arts in school and she found the arts to be a creative outlet.
  • Hospitality is the feeling of welcoming, accepting, and coming together and sharing experiences with people. 
  • There are certain scenarios that exude hospitality like a nice warm farm and a comfortable couch and armchairs. These are part of the overarching feeling of having a space where you feel like you belong.
  • The “instagramable moments” are a faux pa in the design world. You don’t make designs to be seen on Instagram, you make designs that are comfortable and make the guest feel warm and invited. 
  • It’s always a good idea to push the envelop of curiosity and try to increase your knowledge about your industry and the world around you.
  • Coming out of COVID, there has been a lot of opportunities in the hospitality industry for branded spaces to really take off. 
  • People will get used to certain brands and staying at the same hotels because it provides them with a sense of familiarity and a feeling of welcomness. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:17  “It's really kind of about that feeling of welcoming and acceptance and the coming together of experiences and people.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:18 Dune

6:08 Vito Lotta

6:09 Hilton

23:49 Ennismore

23:50 Hoxton

24:03 David Collins

24:38 The Connaught Bar

25:00 Ritz-Carlton

26:15 Aliya Khan

36:36 ILC

44:28 Bentley Residences

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3072 Today’s guest is an industry innovator who uses her talented mind to create beautiful spaces. Alexandra Cole is the Principal and US Managing Director at DesignAgency. Alexandra is incredibly skilled at Interior design and running teams across many different timezones. She joins the host Dan Ryan to share her journey through hospitality and what it all means to her. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • After discovering that she has dyslexia, Alexandra looked forward to the creative arts in school and she found the arts to be a creative outlet.
  • Hospitality is the feeling of welcoming, accepting, and coming together and sharing experiences with people. 
  • There are certain scenarios that exude hospitality like a nice warm farm and a comfortable couch and armchairs. These are part of the overarching feeling of having a space where you feel like you belong.
  • The “instagramable moments” are a faux pa in the design world. You don’t make designs to be seen on Instagram, you make designs that are comfortable and make the guest feel warm and invited. 
  • It’s always a good idea to push the envelop of curiosity and try to increase your knowledge about your industry and the world around you.
  • Coming out of COVID, there has been a lot of opportunities in the hospitality industry for branded spaces to really take off. 
  • People will get used to certain brands and staying at the same hotels because it provides them with a sense of familiarity and a feeling of welcomness. 

 

Quote of the Show:

15:17  “It's really kind of about that feeling of welcoming and acceptance and the coming together of experiences and people.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:18 Dune

6:08 Vito Lotta

6:09 Hilton

23:49 Ennismore

23:50 Hoxton

24:03 David Collins

24:38 The Connaught Bar

25:00 Ritz-Carlton

26:15 Aliya Khan

36:36 ILC

44:28 Bentley Residences

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Peek at the Independent Lodging Congress - Daniel del Olmo - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 074 74 74 A Peek at the Independent Lodging Congress - Daniel del Olmo - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 074 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/556950ed-1cc5-3e8b-ad9c-14ce8bfe35c8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a1230f0e Today’s guest is a passionate hospitality leader with more than 25 years of experience in growing hospitality brands and nurturing successful partnerships in more than 70 countries around the world. Daniel del Olmo is the President & Chief Operating Officer of Sage Hotel Management. Daniel stopped by to preview the upcoming Independent Lodging Congress!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The 2022 Independent Lodging Congress is being held at the Line Hotel in Los Angeles from October 11th-13th. The link to register is included below. 
  • The welcome cocktail will be held at the newly opened Hotel Per La on the first day of the Independent Lodging Conference.
  • What sets the ILC apart from other hospitality industry conferences is that it feels more like a community than a typical conference. Instead of standard presentations, the ILC is about bringing like-hearted people together to share their diverse experiences.
  • From its inception, ILC has brought together many different points of inspiration from both inside and outside the hospitality industry. This basis is still felt today and it’s hard not to be inspired by the varied perspectives on display.
  • The ILC highlights the extended family of the hospitality world by featuring all of the disciplines that interact with hospitality, like music, art, culture, etc.
  • If you’re on the fence about going to ILC, ask yourself when was the last time that you felt inspired by going to a conference. Also, set some goals for yourself and your company and see how many of them overlap with those of people attending ILC.

 

Quote of the Show:

  • 2:19 “In the case of ILC, I've always found that it's a platform that brings together people that are like-hearted, different minded, and with a whole slew of different experiences and perspectives”

 

Links:

Shout Outs:

  • 3:00 Andrew Benioff
  • 5:26 Hotel Per La
  • 5:36 Jeremy Selman
  • Vipin Nambiar

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is a passionate hospitality leader with more than 25 years of experience in growing hospitality brands and nurturing successful partnerships in more than 70 countries around the world. Daniel del Olmo is the President & Chief Operating Officer of Sage Hotel Management. Daniel stopped by to preview the upcoming Independent Lodging Congress!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The 2022 Independent Lodging Congress is being held at the Line Hotel in Los Angeles from October 11th-13th. The link to register is included below. 
  • The welcome cocktail will be held at the newly opened Hotel Per La on the first day of the Independent Lodging Conference.
  • What sets the ILC apart from other hospitality industry conferences is that it feels more like a community than a typical conference. Instead of standard presentations, the ILC is about bringing like-hearted people together to share their diverse experiences.
  • From its inception, ILC has brought together many different points of inspiration from both inside and outside the hospitality industry. This basis is still felt today and it’s hard not to be inspired by the varied perspectives on display.
  • The ILC highlights the extended family of the hospitality world by featuring all of the disciplines that interact with hospitality, like music, art, culture, etc.
  • If you’re on the fence about going to ILC, ask yourself when was the last time that you felt inspired by going to a conference. Also, set some goals for yourself and your company and see how many of them overlap with those of people attending ILC.

 

Quote of the Show:

  • 2:19 “In the case of ILC, I've always found that it's a platform that brings together people that are like-hearted, different minded, and with a whole slew of different experiences and perspectives”

 

Links:

Shout Outs:

  • 3:00 Andrew Benioff
  • 5:26 Hotel Per La
  • 5:36 Jeremy Selman
  • Vipin Nambiar

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:10:19 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 459 Today’s guest is a passionate hospitality leader with more than 25 years of experience in growing hospitality brands and nurturing successful partnerships in more than 70 countries around the world. Daniel del Olmo is the President & Chief Operating Officer of Sage Hotel Management. Daniel stopped by to preview the upcoming Independent Lodging Congress!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The 2022 Independent Lodging Congress is being held at the Line Hotel in Los Angeles from October 11th-13th. The link to register is included below. 
  • The welcome cocktail will be held at the newly opened Hotel Per La on the first day of the Independent Lodging Conference.
  • What sets the ILC apart from other hospitality industry conferences is that it feels more like a community than a typical conference. Instead of standard presentations, the ILC is about bringing like-hearted people together to share their diverse experiences.
  • From its inception, ILC has brought together many different points of inspiration from both inside and outside the hospitality industry. This basis is still felt today and it’s hard not to be inspired by the varied perspectives on display.
  • The ILC highlights the extended family of the hospitality world by featuring all of the disciplines that interact with hospitality, like music, art, culture, etc.
  • If you’re on the fence about going to ILC, ask yourself when was the last time that you felt inspired by going to a conference. Also, set some goals for yourself and your company and see how many of them overlap with those of people attending ILC.

 

Quote of the Show:

  • 2:19 “In the case of ILC, I've always found that it's a platform that brings together people that are like-hearted, different minded, and with a whole slew of different experiences and perspectives”

 

Links:

Shout Outs:

  • 3:00 Andrew Benioff
  • 5:26 Hotel Per La
  • 5:36 Jeremy Selman
  • Vipin Nambiar

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Bucking The Industry Trend - Kia Weatherspoon - Episode # 073 73 73 Bucking The Industry Trend - Kia Weatherspoon - Episode # 073 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/58f7b1f7-798a-32fc-aa8f-0378bb945c2b https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa7ddf90 Today’s guest is the most decorated black interior designer of our time. Kia Weatherspoon is the President and Founder of Determined by Design. Kia focuses on making interior design a standard for all, not a luxury for a few.  Kia joins the host Dan Ryan to share her powerful journey of finding her way into the hospitality industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Kia’s first introduction into the hospitality industry was during her time overseas in the military where she made space out of three sheet walls inside a tent. In that space she felt comforted and felt solace.
  • Hospitality is all about being people driven. You want to focus on making sure that you are giving the people a sense of belonging and a place they can be comfortable in and call home.
  • To serve people, you have to be grounded and be people focused. That way you can be the best advocate for equal design outcomes for everybody.
  • Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself as that shows how worthy you think you are. It’s often the small things that leaders forget. You want to humanize people and not go by just their title then you will find the right people to design for.
  • Getting recognized is the least important thing. Instead of being recognized, it’s important to make a change in the world and help others when you can.
  • Radical hospitality is this feeling of being welcomed, embraced, included, accepted, and seen, but without any barriers, bias or judgment.
  • To help build the pipeline for people of color that are in creative industries there will need to be $30 Million in 30 years. 

 

Quote of the Show:

13:35 “Being people driven is always about hospitality in my mind.” 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:14 Stacy Shoemaker

10:31 Alvin Ailey

20:20 Cheryl Durst

37:31 Sequoyah Hunter Sujay

42:16 Jack Travis

42:57 Ashli Johnson - Executive Director Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University 

43:20 Arne Sorenson

43:21 Marriott

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is the most decorated black interior designer of our time. Kia Weatherspoon is the President and Founder of Determined by Design. Kia focuses on making interior design a standard for all, not a luxury for a few.  Kia joins the host Dan Ryan to share her powerful journey of finding her way into the hospitality industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Kia’s first introduction into the hospitality industry was during her time overseas in the military where she made space out of three sheet walls inside a tent. In that space she felt comforted and felt solace.
  • Hospitality is all about being people driven. You want to focus on making sure that you are giving the people a sense of belonging and a place they can be comfortable in and call home.
  • To serve people, you have to be grounded and be people focused. That way you can be the best advocate for equal design outcomes for everybody.
  • Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself as that shows how worthy you think you are. It’s often the small things that leaders forget. You want to humanize people and not go by just their title then you will find the right people to design for.
  • Getting recognized is the least important thing. Instead of being recognized, it’s important to make a change in the world and help others when you can.
  • Radical hospitality is this feeling of being welcomed, embraced, included, accepted, and seen, but without any barriers, bias or judgment.
  • To help build the pipeline for people of color that are in creative industries there will need to be $30 Million in 30 years. 

 

Quote of the Show:

13:35 “Being people driven is always about hospitality in my mind.” 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:14 Stacy Shoemaker

10:31 Alvin Ailey

20:20 Cheryl Durst

37:31 Sequoyah Hunter Sujay

42:16 Jack Travis

42:57 Ashli Johnson - Executive Director Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University 

43:20 Arne Sorenson

43:21 Marriott

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3033 Today’s guest is the most decorated black interior designer of our time. Kia Weatherspoon is the President and Founder of Determined by Design. Kia focuses on making interior design a standard for all, not a luxury for a few.  Kia joins the host Dan Ryan to share her powerful journey of finding her way into the hospitality industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Kia’s first introduction into the hospitality industry was during her time overseas in the military where she made space out of three sheet walls inside a tent. In that space she felt comforted and felt solace.
  • Hospitality is all about being people driven. You want to focus on making sure that you are giving the people a sense of belonging and a place they can be comfortable in and call home.
  • To serve people, you have to be grounded and be people focused. That way you can be the best advocate for equal design outcomes for everybody.
  • Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself as that shows how worthy you think you are. It’s often the small things that leaders forget. You want to humanize people and not go by just their title then you will find the right people to design for.
  • Getting recognized is the least important thing. Instead of being recognized, it’s important to make a change in the world and help others when you can.
  • Radical hospitality is this feeling of being welcomed, embraced, included, accepted, and seen, but without any barriers, bias or judgment.
  • To help build the pipeline for people of color that are in creative industries there will need to be $30 Million in 30 years. 

 

Quote of the Show:

13:35 “Being people driven is always about hospitality in my mind.” 


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

1:14 Stacy Shoemaker

10:31 Alvin Ailey

20:20 Cheryl Durst

37:31 Sequoyah Hunter Sujay

42:16 Jack Travis

42:57 Ashli Johnson - Executive Director Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University 

43:20 Arne Sorenson

43:21 Marriott

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hiring for the Next Generation - Sonya Haffey - Episode # 072 72 72 Hiring for the Next Generation - Sonya Haffey - Episode # 072 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/d37c963a-ed38-3e72-940a-3004c2af6018 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ff78e028 Are you looking to make your big break into the hospitality industry? Well, look no further because today’s guest is looking for an Intermediate Interior Designer! Sonya Haffey is the Principal at V Starr, the design company that was founded by Venus Williams. Sonya joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the need to hire in this industry and what to look for in new employees. Links to the job opening in the show notes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at hiring someone, you want to try and hire someone that is smarter than you and can push you to be better yourself. 
  • It’s essential to give new hires space to be themselves but also space to fail. It’s important for them to use failure as a learning lesson and grow from it.
  • You don't want to deal with drama in the workplace. Hire people that are not going to bring negative energy into the workplace or cause issues. 
  • In the hospitality industry, it is very common for people to burnout and not have a good work/life balance. At V Starr, they make sure to have to keep that balance to avoid burnout.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:18 “My goal in life is for you to prove me wrong at least three times a day. If you can prove me wrong, you'll make my day, I'll be the happiest person alive.”

 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Are you looking to make your big break into the hospitality industry? Well, look no further because today’s guest is looking for an Intermediate Interior Designer! Sonya Haffey is the Principal at V Starr, the design company that was founded by Venus Williams. Sonya joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the need to hire in this industry and what to look for in new employees. Links to the job opening in the show notes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at hiring someone, you want to try and hire someone that is smarter than you and can push you to be better yourself. 
  • It’s essential to give new hires space to be themselves but also space to fail. It’s important for them to use failure as a learning lesson and grow from it.
  • You don't want to deal with drama in the workplace. Hire people that are not going to bring negative energy into the workplace or cause issues. 
  • In the hospitality industry, it is very common for people to burnout and not have a good work/life balance. At V Starr, they make sure to have to keep that balance to avoid burnout.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:18 “My goal in life is for you to prove me wrong at least three times a day. If you can prove me wrong, you'll make my day, I'll be the happiest person alive.”

 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:05:27 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 676 Are you looking to make your big break into the hospitality industry? Well, look no further because today’s guest is looking for an Intermediate Interior Designer! Sonya Haffey is the Principal at V Starr, the design company that was founded by Venus Williams. Sonya joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about the need to hire in this industry and what to look for in new employees. Links to the job opening in the show notes.

 

Takeaways: 

  • When you are looking at hiring someone, you want to try and hire someone that is smarter than you and can push you to be better yourself. 
  • It’s essential to give new hires space to be themselves but also space to fail. It’s important for them to use failure as a learning lesson and grow from it.
  • You don't want to deal with drama in the workplace. Hire people that are not going to bring negative energy into the workplace or cause issues. 
  • In the hospitality industry, it is very common for people to burnout and not have a good work/life balance. At V Starr, they make sure to have to keep that balance to avoid burnout.

 

Quote of the Show:

1:18 “My goal in life is for you to prove me wrong at least three times a day. If you can prove me wrong, you'll make my day, I'll be the happiest person alive.”

 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan An Immersive World - Anne Wilkinson - Episode # 071 71 71 An Immersive World - Anne Wilkinson - Episode # 071 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/70cd0394-8fa1-3bbb-8eb5-e5ecf5bfd7d0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/93aa6d3e Today’s guest has over 25 years of experience in luxury hotel and residential design. With each project, she brings an unparalleled amount of knowledge. Anne Wilkinson is the Principal at BAMO, Inc. Anne joist the host Dan Ryan to share her hospitality journey and what it means to her to be a part of this industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Working with different principles is similar to working with different clients where each one has a different style that they like and a different process of getting work done.
  • At its core, hospitality is about caring. It's about taking care of people that come to stay with you and paying attention to their needs. 
  • A lot of the “check boxes” for what makes a hotel a luxury hotel can be seen as outdated and they aren’t the end all be all for the standard of luxury hotels.
  • Everybody is focused on bringing people back to the office, so they are looking at having the office spaces be redesigned to be fun and exciting and create a sense of identity amongst the people who work there.
  • It’s important to try and look at ways to make your design or space more sustainable so that in the long run it will be better for everyone.
  • There are some designs that remain timeless and can be used in any setting. Design actually reflects what is going on in the current world.
  • When you are designing a space for anyone, it’s a good idea to listen to what the people who will be using the space are looking for and try to meet their needs and wants.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:40 “At its core, hospitality is about caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

28:43 Justin Herman Plaza

28:49 Embarcadero

31:46 Tahmahlah

34:43 Mindclick

38:35 Carmelo Resort

44:12 The Aesthetics of Joy

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has over 25 years of experience in luxury hotel and residential design. With each project, she brings an unparalleled amount of knowledge. Anne Wilkinson is the Principal at BAMO, Inc. Anne joist the host Dan Ryan to share her hospitality journey and what it means to her to be a part of this industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Working with different principles is similar to working with different clients where each one has a different style that they like and a different process of getting work done.
  • At its core, hospitality is about caring. It's about taking care of people that come to stay with you and paying attention to their needs. 
  • A lot of the “check boxes” for what makes a hotel a luxury hotel can be seen as outdated and they aren’t the end all be all for the standard of luxury hotels.
  • Everybody is focused on bringing people back to the office, so they are looking at having the office spaces be redesigned to be fun and exciting and create a sense of identity amongst the people who work there.
  • It’s important to try and look at ways to make your design or space more sustainable so that in the long run it will be better for everyone.
  • There are some designs that remain timeless and can be used in any setting. Design actually reflects what is going on in the current world.
  • When you are designing a space for anyone, it’s a good idea to listen to what the people who will be using the space are looking for and try to meet their needs and wants.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:40 “At its core, hospitality is about caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

28:43 Justin Herman Plaza

28:49 Embarcadero

31:46 Tahmahlah

34:43 Mindclick

38:35 Carmelo Resort

44:12 The Aesthetics of Joy

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3502 Today’s guest has over 25 years of experience in luxury hotel and residential design. With each project, she brings an unparalleled amount of knowledge. Anne Wilkinson is the Principal at BAMO, Inc. Anne joist the host Dan Ryan to share her hospitality journey and what it means to her to be a part of this industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Working with different principles is similar to working with different clients where each one has a different style that they like and a different process of getting work done.
  • At its core, hospitality is about caring. It's about taking care of people that come to stay with you and paying attention to their needs. 
  • A lot of the “check boxes” for what makes a hotel a luxury hotel can be seen as outdated and they aren’t the end all be all for the standard of luxury hotels.
  • Everybody is focused on bringing people back to the office, so they are looking at having the office spaces be redesigned to be fun and exciting and create a sense of identity amongst the people who work there.
  • It’s important to try and look at ways to make your design or space more sustainable so that in the long run it will be better for everyone.
  • There are some designs that remain timeless and can be used in any setting. Design actually reflects what is going on in the current world.
  • When you are designing a space for anyone, it’s a good idea to listen to what the people who will be using the space are looking for and try to meet their needs and wants.

 

Quote of the Show:

9:40 “At its core, hospitality is about caring.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

28:43 Justin Herman Plaza

28:49 Embarcadero

31:46 Tahmahlah

34:43 Mindclick

38:35 Carmelo Resort

44:12 The Aesthetics of Joy

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Know Your Skills - Vito Lotta - Episode # 070 70 70 Know Your Skills - Vito Lotta - Episode # 070 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/e06acd22-9cb0-3609-865d-c56c8a3ea157 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cfbafa08 Today’s guest is very keen on visualizing spaces in 3 dimensions. He also holds state licenses in architecture and interior design. Vito Lotta is the Vice President of Architecture & Design at Hilton Worldwide. Vito joins the host Dan Ryan for the first-ever live, in-person episode of Defining Hospitality! Vito shares his journey through the hospitality industry starting with using a drafting board that his father had all the way to being an integral part of Hilton.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Boredom is an excellent state of mind to be in because it allows you to really drill down into your imagination. It’s hard to be imaginative if your mind is constantly coming up with new things.
  • Being in the hospitality industry is providing a certain level of service to your customers, such as teaching guests who can’t dance how to dance and better themselves and providing them with an unforgettable experience.
  • To improve yourself for your company and your personal life, it’s best to focus on your strengths and hone those skills to be even better.
  • Hilton is going in a unique direction where it’s going to be more playful, energetic, and younger. 
  • When it comes to innovation, there are technical, digital, and physical spaces to it all now. You need to find a way to incorporate all those aspects into your design.
  • We still live in an analog world. There are millions of apps out there but they aren’t the answer to coming up with a great design space. 
  • There are different levels of privacy that guests might want that you can integrate into your hotels. Some guests might want more privacy by using an alias while others might not care as much.


Quote of the Show:

16:50 “we're in the business of hospitality. You're supposed to use your gift of dance to make our customers, our guests feel as elegant and graceful as they aspire to be.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

27:13 American Institute of Architects 

32:24 Know Your Strengths by Donald Clifton and Marcus Buckingham

34:40 David Goggins

44:33 Getty’s Group

46:04 Larry Traxler

46:05 Hyatt

46:56 Gensler

50:12 Hotel of Tomorrow

50:37 Ron Swidler

50:51 Rodd Kidley

52:08 Oculus

1:00:54 Wayne’s World


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest is very keen on visualizing spaces in 3 dimensions. He also holds state licenses in architecture and interior design. Vito Lotta is the Vice President of Architecture & Design at Hilton Worldwide. Vito joins the host Dan Ryan for the first-ever live, in-person episode of Defining Hospitality! Vito shares his journey through the hospitality industry starting with using a drafting board that his father had all the way to being an integral part of Hilton.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Boredom is an excellent state of mind to be in because it allows you to really drill down into your imagination. It’s hard to be imaginative if your mind is constantly coming up with new things.
  • Being in the hospitality industry is providing a certain level of service to your customers, such as teaching guests who can’t dance how to dance and better themselves and providing them with an unforgettable experience.
  • To improve yourself for your company and your personal life, it’s best to focus on your strengths and hone those skills to be even better.
  • Hilton is going in a unique direction where it’s going to be more playful, energetic, and younger. 
  • When it comes to innovation, there are technical, digital, and physical spaces to it all now. You need to find a way to incorporate all those aspects into your design.
  • We still live in an analog world. There are millions of apps out there but they aren’t the answer to coming up with a great design space. 
  • There are different levels of privacy that guests might want that you can integrate into your hotels. Some guests might want more privacy by using an alias while others might not care as much.


Quote of the Show:

16:50 “we're in the business of hospitality. You're supposed to use your gift of dance to make our customers, our guests feel as elegant and graceful as they aspire to be.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

27:13 American Institute of Architects 

32:24 Know Your Strengths by Donald Clifton and Marcus Buckingham

34:40 David Goggins

44:33 Getty’s Group

46:04 Larry Traxler

46:05 Hyatt

46:56 Gensler

50:12 Hotel of Tomorrow

50:37 Ron Swidler

50:51 Rodd Kidley

52:08 Oculus

1:00:54 Wayne’s World


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 14 Sep 2022 13:24:09 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3753 Today’s guest is very keen on visualizing spaces in 3 dimensions. He also holds state licenses in architecture and interior design. Vito Lotta is the Vice President of Architecture & Design at Hilton Worldwide. Vito joins the host Dan Ryan for the first-ever live, in-person episode of Defining Hospitality! Vito shares his journey through the hospitality industry starting with using a drafting board that his father had all the way to being an integral part of Hilton.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Boredom is an excellent state of mind to be in because it allows you to really drill down into your imagination. It’s hard to be imaginative if your mind is constantly coming up with new things.
  • Being in the hospitality industry is providing a certain level of service to your customers, such as teaching guests who can’t dance how to dance and better themselves and providing them with an unforgettable experience.
  • To improve yourself for your company and your personal life, it’s best to focus on your strengths and hone those skills to be even better.
  • Hilton is going in a unique direction where it’s going to be more playful, energetic, and younger. 
  • When it comes to innovation, there are technical, digital, and physical spaces to it all now. You need to find a way to incorporate all those aspects into your design.
  • We still live in an analog world. There are millions of apps out there but they aren’t the answer to coming up with a great design space. 
  • There are different levels of privacy that guests might want that you can integrate into your hotels. Some guests might want more privacy by using an alias while others might not care as much.


Quote of the Show:

16:50 “we're in the business of hospitality. You're supposed to use your gift of dance to make our customers, our guests feel as elegant and graceful as they aspire to be.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

27:13 American Institute of Architects 

32:24 Know Your Strengths by Donald Clifton and Marcus Buckingham

34:40 David Goggins

44:33 Getty’s Group

46:04 Larry Traxler

46:05 Hyatt

46:56 Gensler

50:12 Hotel of Tomorrow

50:37 Ron Swidler

50:51 Rodd Kidley

52:08 Oculus

1:00:54 Wayne’s World


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Impacting Others Through Conferences - Harry Javer - Episode # 069 69 69 Impacting Others Through Conferences - Harry Javer - Episode # 069 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/5c6b637a-e83a-3b40-83f9-c49ab479af9e https://share.transistor.fm/s/427961d9 Today’s guest plays an extraordinary role in the hospitality industry. He is the founder and producer of The Lodging Conference, one of the world’s premier events for hotel owners and hospitality executives. Harry Javer is the President of the Conference Bureau. Harry joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through this beautiful industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • The Lodging Conference was designed to be a hospitality industry event that goes on forever, not just a one-time event that gets put to the side because of different trends.
  • A conference owner and a hotel owner actually have a lot in common, but the main commonality is that they both want their guests to leave happy. 
  • In order to have a successful conference, you need to be well-rounded and have a natural sense of curiosity. 
  • The lodging conference industry is a very resilient industry that has always bounced back from difficult times. 
  • When you are planning a conference, you want to have a plan B just in case things don’t go right or the exact way you were planning them.
  • One way to stay inspired is to have a great team around you. They will help you come up with new and fresh ideas. 
  • Some conferences can have a massive impact on how people do business or interact with others. The Lodging Conference has impacted hundreds of lives for the better.

 

Quote of the Show:

14:18 “Running a conference is not much different than running a hotel. We basically want the same thing. We want our guests to leave happy.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

5:34 Tommy Trojan

5:41 Sublime

8:45 Tony Robbins

8:53 Bernie Seigel

9:18 Barbara Sher

21:59 Forest Gump

33:18 Bruce Springfield

37:22 Robert Kiyosaki

37:32 Mark Cuban

37:41 Al Gore

37:43 Donald Trump

37:47 Magic Johnson


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest plays an extraordinary role in the hospitality industry. He is the founder and producer of The Lodging Conference, one of the world’s premier events for hotel owners and hospitality executives. Harry Javer is the President of the Conference Bureau. Harry joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through this beautiful industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • The Lodging Conference was designed to be a hospitality industry event that goes on forever, not just a one-time event that gets put to the side because of different trends.
  • A conference owner and a hotel owner actually have a lot in common, but the main commonality is that they both want their guests to leave happy. 
  • In order to have a successful conference, you need to be well-rounded and have a natural sense of curiosity. 
  • The lodging conference industry is a very resilient industry that has always bounced back from difficult times. 
  • When you are planning a conference, you want to have a plan B just in case things don’t go right or the exact way you were planning them.
  • One way to stay inspired is to have a great team around you. They will help you come up with new and fresh ideas. 
  • Some conferences can have a massive impact on how people do business or interact with others. The Lodging Conference has impacted hundreds of lives for the better.

 

Quote of the Show:

14:18 “Running a conference is not much different than running a hotel. We basically want the same thing. We want our guests to leave happy.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

5:34 Tommy Trojan

5:41 Sublime

8:45 Tony Robbins

8:53 Bernie Seigel

9:18 Barbara Sher

21:59 Forest Gump

33:18 Bruce Springfield

37:22 Robert Kiyosaki

37:32 Mark Cuban

37:41 Al Gore

37:43 Donald Trump

37:47 Magic Johnson


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 07 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2607 Today’s guest plays an extraordinary role in the hospitality industry. He is the founder and producer of The Lodging Conference, one of the world’s premier events for hotel owners and hospitality executives. Harry Javer is the President of the Conference Bureau. Harry joins the host Dan Ryan to share his journey through this beautiful industry and what it all means to him. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • The Lodging Conference was designed to be a hospitality industry event that goes on forever, not just a one-time event that gets put to the side because of different trends.
  • A conference owner and a hotel owner actually have a lot in common, but the main commonality is that they both want their guests to leave happy. 
  • In order to have a successful conference, you need to be well-rounded and have a natural sense of curiosity. 
  • The lodging conference industry is a very resilient industry that has always bounced back from difficult times. 
  • When you are planning a conference, you want to have a plan B just in case things don’t go right or the exact way you were planning them.
  • One way to stay inspired is to have a great team around you. They will help you come up with new and fresh ideas. 
  • Some conferences can have a massive impact on how people do business or interact with others. The Lodging Conference has impacted hundreds of lives for the better.

 

Quote of the Show:

14:18 “Running a conference is not much different than running a hotel. We basically want the same thing. We want our guests to leave happy.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

5:34 Tommy Trojan

5:41 Sublime

8:45 Tony Robbins

8:53 Bernie Seigel

9:18 Barbara Sher

21:59 Forest Gump

33:18 Bruce Springfield

37:22 Robert Kiyosaki

37:32 Mark Cuban

37:41 Al Gore

37:43 Donald Trump

37:47 Magic Johnson


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Year of Memories - Dan Ryan - Episode # 068 68 68 A Year of Memories - Dan Ryan - Episode # 068 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/722e1771-1df5-33cf-aae3-0b52210c4815 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa51db97 It’s a big celebration for Defining Hospitality! We celebrate a year of podcasting with some of Dan’s most popular guests. Throughout the past year, we have heard many great stories and learned so much about what hospitality means to those who work in this beautiful industry. Listen in as Dan guides us through some of his favorite clips and conversations for this week.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Even though there are devastating moments, there are silver linings that lead to greater opportunities. Use the difficult times as your inspiration to push forward.
  • There is a shift in how to interact with design from the perspective of hotels. You have to keep in mind who you are designing for and create memorable experiences.
  • The true reason hospitality exists is to bring people closer together. It helps to strengthen the common bond between people.
  • Every project you work on will be narrative driven and it should reflect the values of the community the project is in.
  • Providing a welcoming environment and a certain level of service in a hotel is something that can never be replaced by a robot or an Airbnb.
  • Part of hospitality is how you make people feel. You want each and every guest to leave with the best experience they have ever had. 
  • Hospitality is like a gathering spot for everyone to come together and find out how close we all are to each other. 

 

Quote of the Show:

"I walk away from each conversation completely energized. And I think that also taps into what makes our industry so special to really put others first we must excel at openhearted listening" 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> It’s a big celebration for Defining Hospitality! We celebrate a year of podcasting with some of Dan’s most popular guests. Throughout the past year, we have heard many great stories and learned so much about what hospitality means to those who work in this beautiful industry. Listen in as Dan guides us through some of his favorite clips and conversations for this week.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Even though there are devastating moments, there are silver linings that lead to greater opportunities. Use the difficult times as your inspiration to push forward.
  • There is a shift in how to interact with design from the perspective of hotels. You have to keep in mind who you are designing for and create memorable experiences.
  • The true reason hospitality exists is to bring people closer together. It helps to strengthen the common bond between people.
  • Every project you work on will be narrative driven and it should reflect the values of the community the project is in.
  • Providing a welcoming environment and a certain level of service in a hotel is something that can never be replaced by a robot or an Airbnb.
  • Part of hospitality is how you make people feel. You want each and every guest to leave with the best experience they have ever had. 
  • Hospitality is like a gathering spot for everyone to come together and find out how close we all are to each other. 

 

Quote of the Show:

"I walk away from each conversation completely energized. And I think that also taps into what makes our industry so special to really put others first we must excel at openhearted listening" 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 1127 It’s a big celebration for Defining Hospitality! We celebrate a year of podcasting with some of Dan’s most popular guests. Throughout the past year, we have heard many great stories and learned so much about what hospitality means to those who work in this beautiful industry. Listen in as Dan guides us through some of his favorite clips and conversations for this week.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Even though there are devastating moments, there are silver linings that lead to greater opportunities. Use the difficult times as your inspiration to push forward.
  • There is a shift in how to interact with design from the perspective of hotels. You have to keep in mind who you are designing for and create memorable experiences.
  • The true reason hospitality exists is to bring people closer together. It helps to strengthen the common bond between people.
  • Every project you work on will be narrative driven and it should reflect the values of the community the project is in.
  • Providing a welcoming environment and a certain level of service in a hotel is something that can never be replaced by a robot or an Airbnb.
  • Part of hospitality is how you make people feel. You want each and every guest to leave with the best experience they have ever had. 
  • Hospitality is like a gathering spot for everyone to come together and find out how close we all are to each other. 

 

Quote of the Show:

"I walk away from each conversation completely energized. And I think that also taps into what makes our industry so special to really put others first we must excel at openhearted listening" 

Links:

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Small Moments - Stephen Wendell - Episode # 067 67 67 Small Moments - Stephen Wendell - Episode # 067 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/2233227e-7565-37bb-a813-87b247e10f99 https://share.transistor.fm/s/af924a73 Today’s guest is highly skilled in corporate law and real estate. He joins the show to share his unique journey through #hospitality. Stephen Wendell is the CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. Stephen joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him and his passion for the industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is one of the hardest asset classes within commercial real estate. You have to deal with a lot of local politics and there is more to navigate.
  • When opening up a boutique hotel or restaurant, you want to make something that the locals really care about and tourists will love and appreciate.
  • There are more money-conscious decisions that you can make to save money when looking at making a hotel. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on high-speed internet when you can get it for $150.
  • Hospitality is made of small moments that add up to be something meaningful for the guests. Whether it’s coffee or a well-placed reading nook, it’s a welcoming feeling.
  • When designing a space, you should consider if what you are going for benefits the guest and the community you are in as a whole. 
  • You don’t have to always agree with someone you are working on a project with. A healthy discussion can lead to a better product.
  • When it comes to running a restaurant or a hotel, it’s important to praise the employees working through the pandemic and keeping those places open.

 

Quote of the Show:

17:47 “It really is the small moments which then makes developing these hotels so difficult because what really translates to the guests and gets them excited is a very, very small moment.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:37 Kate Rohrer

0:38 ROHE CREATIVE

1:13 Horst Schulze

1:14 Ritz Carlton

1:59 Hampton Inn

2:19 Clarence Kerr

2:22 American Motor Inns

2:29 Sheraton

2:30 Holiday Inn

3:09 REIT

3:28 Proskauer Rose in New York

3:30 Philadelphia Eagles

4:09 Marriott

4:10 Hilton

6:51 Miranda Mancuso

6:57 Andres Belos

7:26 Bunkhouse

9:12 Andrew Benioff

9:14 Independent Lodging Congress

13:20 A League of Their Own

20:57 Ramshackle

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest is highly skilled in corporate law and real estate. He joins the show to share his unique journey through #hospitality. Stephen Wendell is the CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. Stephen joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him and his passion for the industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is one of the hardest asset classes within commercial real estate. You have to deal with a lot of local politics and there is more to navigate.
  • When opening up a boutique hotel or restaurant, you want to make something that the locals really care about and tourists will love and appreciate.
  • There are more money-conscious decisions that you can make to save money when looking at making a hotel. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on high-speed internet when you can get it for $150.
  • Hospitality is made of small moments that add up to be something meaningful for the guests. Whether it’s coffee or a well-placed reading nook, it’s a welcoming feeling.
  • When designing a space, you should consider if what you are going for benefits the guest and the community you are in as a whole. 
  • You don’t have to always agree with someone you are working on a project with. A healthy discussion can lead to a better product.
  • When it comes to running a restaurant or a hotel, it’s important to praise the employees working through the pandemic and keeping those places open.

 

Quote of the Show:

17:47 “It really is the small moments which then makes developing these hotels so difficult because what really translates to the guests and gets them excited is a very, very small moment.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:37 Kate Rohrer

0:38 ROHE CREATIVE

1:13 Horst Schulze

1:14 Ritz Carlton

1:59 Hampton Inn

2:19 Clarence Kerr

2:22 American Motor Inns

2:29 Sheraton

2:30 Holiday Inn

3:09 REIT

3:28 Proskauer Rose in New York

3:30 Philadelphia Eagles

4:09 Marriott

4:10 Hilton

6:51 Miranda Mancuso

6:57 Andres Belos

7:26 Bunkhouse

9:12 Andrew Benioff

9:14 Independent Lodging Congress

13:20 A League of Their Own

20:57 Ramshackle

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2840 Today’s guest is highly skilled in corporate law and real estate. He joins the show to share his unique journey through #hospitality. Stephen Wendell is the CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. Stephen joins the host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him and his passion for the industry.

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is one of the hardest asset classes within commercial real estate. You have to deal with a lot of local politics and there is more to navigate.
  • When opening up a boutique hotel or restaurant, you want to make something that the locals really care about and tourists will love and appreciate.
  • There are more money-conscious decisions that you can make to save money when looking at making a hotel. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on high-speed internet when you can get it for $150.
  • Hospitality is made of small moments that add up to be something meaningful for the guests. Whether it’s coffee or a well-placed reading nook, it’s a welcoming feeling.
  • When designing a space, you should consider if what you are going for benefits the guest and the community you are in as a whole. 
  • You don’t have to always agree with someone you are working on a project with. A healthy discussion can lead to a better product.
  • When it comes to running a restaurant or a hotel, it’s important to praise the employees working through the pandemic and keeping those places open.

 

Quote of the Show:

17:47 “It really is the small moments which then makes developing these hotels so difficult because what really translates to the guests and gets them excited is a very, very small moment.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

0:37 Kate Rohrer

0:38 ROHE CREATIVE

1:13 Horst Schulze

1:14 Ritz Carlton

1:59 Hampton Inn

2:19 Clarence Kerr

2:22 American Motor Inns

2:29 Sheraton

2:30 Holiday Inn

3:09 REIT

3:28 Proskauer Rose in New York

3:30 Philadelphia Eagles

4:09 Marriott

4:10 Hilton

6:51 Miranda Mancuso

6:57 Andres Belos

7:26 Bunkhouse

9:12 Andrew Benioff

9:14 Independent Lodging Congress

13:20 A League of Their Own

20:57 Ramshackle

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan An Experiment of Community - Josh Held - Episode # 066 66 66 An Experiment of Community - Josh Held - Episode # 066 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/82aa6636-6369-3e7c-a442-1b46b1b78b1f https://share.transistor.fm/s/2063dc75 Today’s guest has a passion for hospitality. He spearheads Wimberly interior’s entertainment, gaming, nightlife F&B, and retail design environment. Josh Held is the Vice President & Director of Entertainment at Wimberly Interiors. Josh joins the host Dan Ryan to share his passion for community and his hospitality journey.


Takeaways: 

  • The spaces that are being made in hospitality are all about making connections with others in the same space.
  • When you think about the places you tend to go back to as a guest, you go back there because you feel comfortable and it gives you a sense of belonging.
  • Burning Man created a sort of petri dish of a community with all different groups of people coming together with a common interest.
  • It’s important to open your mind and let go of preconceived notions of the world around you and instead see the experiences around you and build upon the world with that.
  • The best ideas often come from when you aren’t trying so hard to come up with an idea. Giving your mind space to breathe is an indispensable tool. 
  • The future is undefined and unpredictable, which makes it exciting for people in the hospitality industry to try and innovate for the future. 
  • Don’t be afraid to push the limit. You need to be confident and know your stuff, but pushing the boundaries is the only way to innovate with new ideas.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:59 “Think about the places that you tend to go back to as a guest. Just as being a normal person who interacts with spaces, you tend to go back to the places that make you feel comfortable, that give you that sense of belonging there.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:09 Marque in New York

17:29 David Allen

32:58 Rockwell Group

33:00 David Rockwell

33:02 David Mexico


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest has a passion for hospitality. He spearheads Wimberly interior’s entertainment, gaming, nightlife F&B, and retail design environment. Josh Held is the Vice President & Director of Entertainment at Wimberly Interiors. Josh joins the host Dan Ryan to share his passion for community and his hospitality journey.


Takeaways: 

  • The spaces that are being made in hospitality are all about making connections with others in the same space.
  • When you think about the places you tend to go back to as a guest, you go back there because you feel comfortable and it gives you a sense of belonging.
  • Burning Man created a sort of petri dish of a community with all different groups of people coming together with a common interest.
  • It’s important to open your mind and let go of preconceived notions of the world around you and instead see the experiences around you and build upon the world with that.
  • The best ideas often come from when you aren’t trying so hard to come up with an idea. Giving your mind space to breathe is an indispensable tool. 
  • The future is undefined and unpredictable, which makes it exciting for people in the hospitality industry to try and innovate for the future. 
  • Don’t be afraid to push the limit. You need to be confident and know your stuff, but pushing the boundaries is the only way to innovate with new ideas.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:59 “Think about the places that you tend to go back to as a guest. Just as being a normal person who interacts with spaces, you tend to go back to the places that make you feel comfortable, that give you that sense of belonging there.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:09 Marque in New York

17:29 David Allen

32:58 Rockwell Group

33:00 David Rockwell

33:02 David Mexico


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 17 Aug 2022 09:33:05 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2754 Today’s guest has a passion for hospitality. He spearheads Wimberly interior’s entertainment, gaming, nightlife F&B, and retail design environment. Josh Held is the Vice President & Director of Entertainment at Wimberly Interiors. Josh joins the host Dan Ryan to share his passion for community and his hospitality journey.


Takeaways: 

  • The spaces that are being made in hospitality are all about making connections with others in the same space.
  • When you think about the places you tend to go back to as a guest, you go back there because you feel comfortable and it gives you a sense of belonging.
  • Burning Man created a sort of petri dish of a community with all different groups of people coming together with a common interest.
  • It’s important to open your mind and let go of preconceived notions of the world around you and instead see the experiences around you and build upon the world with that.
  • The best ideas often come from when you aren’t trying so hard to come up with an idea. Giving your mind space to breathe is an indispensable tool. 
  • The future is undefined and unpredictable, which makes it exciting for people in the hospitality industry to try and innovate for the future. 
  • Don’t be afraid to push the limit. You need to be confident and know your stuff, but pushing the boundaries is the only way to innovate with new ideas.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:59 “Think about the places that you tend to go back to as a guest. Just as being a normal person who interacts with spaces, you tend to go back to the places that make you feel comfortable, that give you that sense of belonging there.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:09 Marque in New York

17:29 David Allen

32:58 Rockwell Group

33:00 David Rockwell

33:02 David Mexico


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Backdrops to Memories - Marc DeSmet - Episode # 065 65 65 Backdrops to Memories - Marc DeSmet - Episode # 065 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/425b54d1-3e5b-36a6-a86e-7385d16be52d https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f11cccd Today’s guest is highly skilled at space planning. He is known for fostering excellence within his design team and uses a client's creativity, focus and experience to turn their dreams into a reality. Marc DeSmet is the Associate Principal at TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design. Marc joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him  


Takeaways: 

  • Where you live in the world will influence the way you look at your design space, a faster paced environment will feel and produce a different look than a slower one.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about little gift baskets in hotel rooms or flowers. It’s a feeling of welcoming and greeting someone to make them feel comfortable.
  • Hospitality is about creating backdrops for memories. You want to create a positive memory for your guests and have it be something they look back upon fondly. 
  • Music can play a large role in hospitality as well, as it can influence the way a setting is received by a guest.
  • As an architect, it’s important to consider projects that are longer form and can be multi-generational as that can allow the space to really develop.
  • You want to create a location that people will want to go back to over and over again. 
  • Net Zero hotels are starting to be looked at as the way of the future for hotels to help the environment.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:24 “I don't think of it as a thing anymore. I think it's not a noun. Hospitality is a verb. It's an action of greeting. It's an action of welcoming.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:54 Jeffrey Beers

4:37 Platinum Circle Awards

4:52 Larry Traxler

14:31 Rockwell Group

14:34 David Mexico

15:26 Mies van der Rohe

15:27 Louis Kahn

15:47 Morris Lapidus

15:58 Philip Johnson

19:20 The Cliff House

23:12 Hotel Jackson

23:59 Omni Mount Washington

26:13 Foundation Hotel

27:13 Simone Deerie

27:53 KISS

29:57 RGA Loyal 

31:16 Phish

32:25 Mike Gordon

40:38 Hotel Marcel


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest is highly skilled at space planning. He is known for fostering excellence within his design team and uses a client's creativity, focus and experience to turn their dreams into a reality. Marc DeSmet is the Associate Principal at TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design. Marc joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him  


Takeaways: 

  • Where you live in the world will influence the way you look at your design space, a faster paced environment will feel and produce a different look than a slower one.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about little gift baskets in hotel rooms or flowers. It’s a feeling of welcoming and greeting someone to make them feel comfortable.
  • Hospitality is about creating backdrops for memories. You want to create a positive memory for your guests and have it be something they look back upon fondly. 
  • Music can play a large role in hospitality as well, as it can influence the way a setting is received by a guest.
  • As an architect, it’s important to consider projects that are longer form and can be multi-generational as that can allow the space to really develop.
  • You want to create a location that people will want to go back to over and over again. 
  • Net Zero hotels are starting to be looked at as the way of the future for hotels to help the environment.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:24 “I don't think of it as a thing anymore. I think it's not a noun. Hospitality is a verb. It's an action of greeting. It's an action of welcoming.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:54 Jeffrey Beers

4:37 Platinum Circle Awards

4:52 Larry Traxler

14:31 Rockwell Group

14:34 David Mexico

15:26 Mies van der Rohe

15:27 Louis Kahn

15:47 Morris Lapidus

15:58 Philip Johnson

19:20 The Cliff House

23:12 Hotel Jackson

23:59 Omni Mount Washington

26:13 Foundation Hotel

27:13 Simone Deerie

27:53 KISS

29:57 RGA Loyal 

31:16 Phish

32:25 Mike Gordon

40:38 Hotel Marcel


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 03 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2808 Today’s guest is highly skilled at space planning. He is known for fostering excellence within his design team and uses a client's creativity, focus and experience to turn their dreams into a reality. Marc DeSmet is the Associate Principal at TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design. Marc joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him  


Takeaways: 

  • Where you live in the world will influence the way you look at your design space, a faster paced environment will feel and produce a different look than a slower one.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about little gift baskets in hotel rooms or flowers. It’s a feeling of welcoming and greeting someone to make them feel comfortable.
  • Hospitality is about creating backdrops for memories. You want to create a positive memory for your guests and have it be something they look back upon fondly. 
  • Music can play a large role in hospitality as well, as it can influence the way a setting is received by a guest.
  • As an architect, it’s important to consider projects that are longer form and can be multi-generational as that can allow the space to really develop.
  • You want to create a location that people will want to go back to over and over again. 
  • Net Zero hotels are starting to be looked at as the way of the future for hotels to help the environment.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:24 “I don't think of it as a thing anymore. I think it's not a noun. Hospitality is a verb. It's an action of greeting. It's an action of welcoming.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:54 Jeffrey Beers

4:37 Platinum Circle Awards

4:52 Larry Traxler

14:31 Rockwell Group

14:34 David Mexico

15:26 Mies van der Rohe

15:27 Louis Kahn

15:47 Morris Lapidus

15:58 Philip Johnson

19:20 The Cliff House

23:12 Hotel Jackson

23:59 Omni Mount Washington

26:13 Foundation Hotel

27:13 Simone Deerie

27:53 KISS

29:57 RGA Loyal 

31:16 Phish

32:25 Mike Gordon

40:38 Hotel Marcel


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Tales of The City - Barry Sullivan - Episode # 064 64 64 Tales of The City - Barry Sullivan - Episode # 064 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/8b77de85-bebe-3c97-97eb-8559651fd84d https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe39dfca Today’s guest is responsible for guiding the design of all North American projects for the Canopy, Tempo and Motto brands at Hilton. He has a fabulous eye for interior design and it shows in his work. Barry Sullivan is The Senior Director of Lifestyle at Hilton Worldwide. Barry joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making others feel comfortable in a place that is unfamiliar to them or a new environment. You want them to find the versions of the things they find familiar in a new setting.
  • People gravitate towards areas that they are most comfortable with. You want to create a sense of comfort with them.
  • A soft brand is a hotel that can be whatever it wants to be but the infrastructure might not be all the same.
  • As your business grows, you need to keep your passion alive and be involved enough for it to grow in the right direction and not lose sight of the ultimate goal and culture.
  • The pandemic has made some projects go on longer than were originally planned, so you want to make sure you are ready for a project to be extended in certain cases.
  • It’s a rewarding experience to see a hotel from the beginning all the way to the finished project.
  • How you treat your team members is how they will treat guests. You want to make sure you are taking care of the team so they can give the guests their best experiences.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:16 “Hospitality is making people feel comfortable, or my definition is making them feel comfortable, welcome, and warm in an environment that's not their own.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:57 Steve Higgins

1:11 Jim Northcut

2:04 Linda Ronstadt

2:13 Harry Dean Staton

2:19 Kevin Bacon

2:43 Eda Hallinan

2:50 Armistead Maupin’s “Tales of the City”

6:03 Wimberly

31:44 Larry Traxler

32:29 Sue Firestone

32:42 Design One

32:57 James Northcut Associates

42:24 Margaret McMahon

44:05 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

49:54 Chris Nassetta

51:14 Conrad Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest is responsible for guiding the design of all North American projects for the Canopy, Tempo and Motto brands at Hilton. He has a fabulous eye for interior design and it shows in his work. Barry Sullivan is The Senior Director of Lifestyle at Hilton Worldwide. Barry joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making others feel comfortable in a place that is unfamiliar to them or a new environment. You want them to find the versions of the things they find familiar in a new setting.
  • People gravitate towards areas that they are most comfortable with. You want to create a sense of comfort with them.
  • A soft brand is a hotel that can be whatever it wants to be but the infrastructure might not be all the same.
  • As your business grows, you need to keep your passion alive and be involved enough for it to grow in the right direction and not lose sight of the ultimate goal and culture.
  • The pandemic has made some projects go on longer than were originally planned, so you want to make sure you are ready for a project to be extended in certain cases.
  • It’s a rewarding experience to see a hotel from the beginning all the way to the finished project.
  • How you treat your team members is how they will treat guests. You want to make sure you are taking care of the team so they can give the guests their best experiences.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:16 “Hospitality is making people feel comfortable, or my definition is making them feel comfortable, welcome, and warm in an environment that's not their own.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:57 Steve Higgins

1:11 Jim Northcut

2:04 Linda Ronstadt

2:13 Harry Dean Staton

2:19 Kevin Bacon

2:43 Eda Hallinan

2:50 Armistead Maupin’s “Tales of the City”

6:03 Wimberly

31:44 Larry Traxler

32:29 Sue Firestone

32:42 Design One

32:57 James Northcut Associates

42:24 Margaret McMahon

44:05 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

49:54 Chris Nassetta

51:14 Conrad Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 27 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4925 Today’s guest is responsible for guiding the design of all North American projects for the Canopy, Tempo and Motto brands at Hilton. He has a fabulous eye for interior design and it shows in his work. Barry Sullivan is The Senior Director of Lifestyle at Hilton Worldwide. Barry joins host Dan Ryan to share his #hospitality journey and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is about making others feel comfortable in a place that is unfamiliar to them or a new environment. You want them to find the versions of the things they find familiar in a new setting.
  • People gravitate towards areas that they are most comfortable with. You want to create a sense of comfort with them.
  • A soft brand is a hotel that can be whatever it wants to be but the infrastructure might not be all the same.
  • As your business grows, you need to keep your passion alive and be involved enough for it to grow in the right direction and not lose sight of the ultimate goal and culture.
  • The pandemic has made some projects go on longer than were originally planned, so you want to make sure you are ready for a project to be extended in certain cases.
  • It’s a rewarding experience to see a hotel from the beginning all the way to the finished project.
  • How you treat your team members is how they will treat guests. You want to make sure you are taking care of the team so they can give the guests their best experiences.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:16 “Hospitality is making people feel comfortable, or my definition is making them feel comfortable, welcome, and warm in an environment that's not their own.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:57 Steve Higgins

1:11 Jim Northcut

2:04 Linda Ronstadt

2:13 Harry Dean Staton

2:19 Kevin Bacon

2:43 Eda Hallinan

2:50 Armistead Maupin’s “Tales of the City”

6:03 Wimberly

31:44 Larry Traxler

32:29 Sue Firestone

32:42 Design One

32:57 James Northcut Associates

42:24 Margaret McMahon

44:05 Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

49:54 Chris Nassetta

51:14 Conrad Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

 Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Changing Institutional Practices - Dieter Cartwright - Episode # 063 63 63 Changing Institutional Practices - Dieter Cartwright - Episode # 063 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/647267a5-755d-3c2d-bc2c-5f36d16da495 https://share.transistor.fm/s/176a3f33 Today’s guest started his hospitality career in hospitality by working in High Rise architecture, but quickly became a hospitality wizard. He has an eye for decatant design. Dieter Cartwright is a Partner at Dutch East Design. Dieter joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to design a place where people can gather and enjoy their experience.
  • As the designer, you can build a beautiful space but it is up to the owner and manager to maintain it and keep it lively.
  • When designing a space, don’t be afraid to hand it over to and acknowledge someone else’s direction.
  • You want to create an environment that doesn’t alienate people but instead it bring others together.
  • Net Zero is a goal to go away from the dependency on fossil fuels and rather sustainable ways of providing energy.
  • The barriers to any change are institutional practices. If you surround yourself with the right team you can help to change things for the better.
  • Whatever you are considering building, none of it possible without the use of energy.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:59 ​​”As a designer, we can build the car, we can give you the keys, but you have to drive it.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 David Kaplan

0:50 Death and Company

1:33 Demond

3:07 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

17:19 Hotel Marcel

19:15 Tapestry by Hilton

29:54 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

32:44 Bruce Becker

39:15 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Today’s guest started his hospitality career in hospitality by working in High Rise architecture, but quickly became a hospitality wizard. He has an eye for decatant design. Dieter Cartwright is a Partner at Dutch East Design. Dieter joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to design a place where people can gather and enjoy their experience.
  • As the designer, you can build a beautiful space but it is up to the owner and manager to maintain it and keep it lively.
  • When designing a space, don’t be afraid to hand it over to and acknowledge someone else’s direction.
  • You want to create an environment that doesn’t alienate people but instead it bring others together.
  • Net Zero is a goal to go away from the dependency on fossil fuels and rather sustainable ways of providing energy.
  • The barriers to any change are institutional practices. If you surround yourself with the right team you can help to change things for the better.
  • Whatever you are considering building, none of it possible without the use of energy.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:59 ​​”As a designer, we can build the car, we can give you the keys, but you have to drive it.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 David Kaplan

0:50 Death and Company

1:33 Demond

3:07 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

17:19 Hotel Marcel

19:15 Tapestry by Hilton

29:54 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

32:44 Bruce Becker

39:15 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Wed, 20 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3542 Today’s guest started his hospitality career in hospitality by working in High Rise architecture, but quickly became a hospitality wizard. He has an eye for decatant design. Dieter Cartwright is a Partner at Dutch East Design. Dieter joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to design a place where people can gather and enjoy their experience.
  • As the designer, you can build a beautiful space but it is up to the owner and manager to maintain it and keep it lively.
  • When designing a space, don’t be afraid to hand it over to and acknowledge someone else’s direction.
  • You want to create an environment that doesn’t alienate people but instead it bring others together.
  • Net Zero is a goal to go away from the dependency on fossil fuels and rather sustainable ways of providing energy.
  • The barriers to any change are institutional practices. If you surround yourself with the right team you can help to change things for the better.
  • Whatever you are considering building, none of it possible without the use of energy.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:59 ​​”As a designer, we can build the car, we can give you the keys, but you have to drive it.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 David Kaplan

0:50 Death and Company

1:33 Demond

3:07 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

17:19 Hotel Marcel

19:15 Tapestry by Hilton

29:54 Rich, Brilliant and Willing

32:44 Bruce Becker

39:15 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

 

Defining Hospitality is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Diversity of Experiences - Greg Keffer - Episode # 062 62 62 Diversity of Experiences - Greg Keffer - Episode # 062 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ea013f3c-9039-3ee9-a5c3-1ebdc9e54a34 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ac8c1f4e Today’s guest loves to take on new and unfamiliar typologies and approach them from a hospitality point of view. He has combined strengths in architecture and interior design. Greg Keffer, the Partner at Rockwell Group, leads design studios in the firm’s New York and Madrid offices. Greg joins host Dan Ryan to talk about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to surround yourself with people who view projects in a different way than you and bring something new to the table.
  • At the end of the day, hospitality helps to bring out the commonality and real life experiences that connect people.
  • Hospitality is all about bringing people together. There is a lot going on in the world now and hospitality can help ease the stress and find the common bond between people.
  • You need to consider the needs of your clients as every project and client is going to require a different approach.
  • When creating a hospitality space, it needs to be unique and create a memorable experience for the guests so they want to come back.
  • We all get caught up in our day to day lives but it’s important to take time to show gratitude and appreciation.
  • There is a larger sense of community now in the hospitality industry, and it’s important to be engaged with the community you are in.


Quote of the Show:

 

6:53 “To me, the true reason hospitality exists is to bring people back together. We need spaces and places and something that is a common bond between people.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:40 Imagination Playground

10:17 Neuehouse.com

10:31 WeWorks

11:31 Union Square Cafe

11:32 Danny Meyer

15:42 Glen Coben

19:32 Skidmore

19:45 Eva Maddox

20:21 Todd DeGarmo

20:35 David Rockwell

28:55 Empire Diner

37:57 Aluminairium

45:56 Aaron Richter

45:58 Equinox Hotel

47:18 Nobu Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest loves to take on new and unfamiliar typologies and approach them from a hospitality point of view. He has combined strengths in architecture and interior design. Greg Keffer, the Partner at Rockwell Group, leads design studios in the firm’s New York and Madrid offices. Greg joins host Dan Ryan to talk about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to surround yourself with people who view projects in a different way than you and bring something new to the table.
  • At the end of the day, hospitality helps to bring out the commonality and real life experiences that connect people.
  • Hospitality is all about bringing people together. There is a lot going on in the world now and hospitality can help ease the stress and find the common bond between people.
  • You need to consider the needs of your clients as every project and client is going to require a different approach.
  • When creating a hospitality space, it needs to be unique and create a memorable experience for the guests so they want to come back.
  • We all get caught up in our day to day lives but it’s important to take time to show gratitude and appreciation.
  • There is a larger sense of community now in the hospitality industry, and it’s important to be engaged with the community you are in.


Quote of the Show:

 

6:53 “To me, the true reason hospitality exists is to bring people back together. We need spaces and places and something that is a common bond between people.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:40 Imagination Playground

10:17 Neuehouse.com

10:31 WeWorks

11:31 Union Square Cafe

11:32 Danny Meyer

15:42 Glen Coben

19:32 Skidmore

19:45 Eva Maddox

20:21 Todd DeGarmo

20:35 David Rockwell

28:55 Empire Diner

37:57 Aluminairium

45:56 Aaron Richter

45:58 Equinox Hotel

47:18 Nobu Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3345 Today’s guest loves to take on new and unfamiliar typologies and approach them from a hospitality point of view. He has combined strengths in architecture and interior design. Greg Keffer, the Partner at Rockwell Group, leads design studios in the firm’s New York and Madrid offices. Greg joins host Dan Ryan to talk about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to surround yourself with people who view projects in a different way than you and bring something new to the table.
  • At the end of the day, hospitality helps to bring out the commonality and real life experiences that connect people.
  • Hospitality is all about bringing people together. There is a lot going on in the world now and hospitality can help ease the stress and find the common bond between people.
  • You need to consider the needs of your clients as every project and client is going to require a different approach.
  • When creating a hospitality space, it needs to be unique and create a memorable experience for the guests so they want to come back.
  • We all get caught up in our day to day lives but it’s important to take time to show gratitude and appreciation.
  • There is a larger sense of community now in the hospitality industry, and it’s important to be engaged with the community you are in.


Quote of the Show:

 

6:53 “To me, the true reason hospitality exists is to bring people back together. We need spaces and places and something that is a common bond between people.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

4:40 Imagination Playground

10:17 Neuehouse.com

10:31 WeWorks

11:31 Union Square Cafe

11:32 Danny Meyer

15:42 Glen Coben

19:32 Skidmore

19:45 Eva Maddox

20:21 Todd DeGarmo

20:35 David Rockwell

28:55 Empire Diner

37:57 Aluminairium

45:56 Aaron Richter

45:58 Equinox Hotel

47:18 Nobu Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Cabinet of Curiosities - Rado Ivanov - Episode # 061 61 61 Cabinet of Curiosities - Rado Ivanov - Episode # 061 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6f1747ad-8b51-326b-85b3-91471bed1680 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3ef8fad9 Today’s guest has a keen eye for design as well as being an innovator in the hospitality industry. He is a licensed architect with the American Institute of Architects. Rado Ivanov is the Vice President of Global Design for the USA and Canada at Marriott International. Rado joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • When designing a space, you want to think about making that space feel like a home and feel welcoming.
  • We as humans are very good at pointing out things that we don’t like, but we can’t really define things we do like.
  • Hospitality is an experience. It is something that affects all the major 5 senses in a good way and leaves a lasting impression.
  • Hospitality makes the world a smaller and better place through the power of travel. 
  • You want people to feel comfortable with the space they are in. You don’t want to make it cold and impersonal.
  • The cabinet of curiosities is a wall that shows items that are related to the people who work at the Marriott hotels.
  • With the latest innovations in technology, there is a lot interesting ways you can incorporate that into a hotel room, ie 


Quote of the Show:

 

12:28 “Hospitality to me is an experience.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

1:18 Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ

3:15 Arne Sorenson

7:25 Ty Breland

10:36 Jeff Voris

24:08 David Aleman

33:16 Gensler

48:47 AC Marriott

48:48 Courtyard Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has a keen eye for design as well as being an innovator in the hospitality industry. He is a licensed architect with the American Institute of Architects. Rado Ivanov is the Vice President of Global Design for the USA and Canada at Marriott International. Rado joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • When designing a space, you want to think about making that space feel like a home and feel welcoming.
  • We as humans are very good at pointing out things that we don’t like, but we can’t really define things we do like.
  • Hospitality is an experience. It is something that affects all the major 5 senses in a good way and leaves a lasting impression.
  • Hospitality makes the world a smaller and better place through the power of travel. 
  • You want people to feel comfortable with the space they are in. You don’t want to make it cold and impersonal.
  • The cabinet of curiosities is a wall that shows items that are related to the people who work at the Marriott hotels.
  • With the latest innovations in technology, there is a lot interesting ways you can incorporate that into a hotel room, ie 


Quote of the Show:

 

12:28 “Hospitality to me is an experience.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

1:18 Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ

3:15 Arne Sorenson

7:25 Ty Breland

10:36 Jeff Voris

24:08 David Aleman

33:16 Gensler

48:47 AC Marriott

48:48 Courtyard Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3796 Today’s guest has a keen eye for design as well as being an innovator in the hospitality industry. He is a licensed architect with the American Institute of Architects. Rado Ivanov is the Vice President of Global Design for the USA and Canada at Marriott International. Rado joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • When designing a space, you want to think about making that space feel like a home and feel welcoming.
  • We as humans are very good at pointing out things that we don’t like, but we can’t really define things we do like.
  • Hospitality is an experience. It is something that affects all the major 5 senses in a good way and leaves a lasting impression.
  • Hospitality makes the world a smaller and better place through the power of travel. 
  • You want people to feel comfortable with the space they are in. You don’t want to make it cold and impersonal.
  • The cabinet of curiosities is a wall that shows items that are related to the people who work at the Marriott hotels.
  • With the latest innovations in technology, there is a lot interesting ways you can incorporate that into a hotel room, ie 


Quote of the Show:

 

12:28 “Hospitality to me is an experience.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

1:18 Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ

3:15 Arne Sorenson

7:25 Ty Breland

10:36 Jeff Voris

24:08 David Aleman

33:16 Gensler

48:47 AC Marriott

48:48 Courtyard Marriott


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Surprise & Delight - Josiah Mackenzie - Episode # 060 60 60 Surprise & Delight - Josiah Mackenzie - Episode # 060 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6dd10fec-c789-3973-8fe4-9500003f1c18 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5b77a948 Today’s guest began his journey through hospitality working in a small property on the California coast and then built the number one hotel marketing blog in the world. He’s the publisher of Hospitality Daily, which is dedicated to helping hoteliers provide better guest experiences. Josiah Mackenzie is the Principal at Benchmark Research Partners, and he joins host Dan Ryan to share his experiences and passion about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a gift that you can give to others. It is the feeling of safety, of being creatively free and being inspired by others and what is around you.
  • The hospitality career path is more steep than it has ever been now and that makes it a perfect time to join this industry.
  • People who work in the hospitality industry have a desire to meet new people from across the world and serve these people. 
  • Hospitality is something that you learn from observation and seeing how the professionals handle themselves and clients.
  • When designing a great guest experience it is important to focus on the F&B moments as those can allow you to create moments to surprise and delight guests
  • Hospitality isn’t just welcoming people to your hotel. There is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes into getting everything.
  • Real estate is becoming a better environment to work in and it is worth investing your money into hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:21 “I think hospitality at its core is really a gift. It's a feeling of being safe, of being free, of being inspired.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:00 Skift

1:28 Andrew Benioff

1:30 Independent Lodging Congress

3:55 Aaron Richter

3:58 Equinox

13:34 Adele Gutman

15:41 The Grand Hotel

16:47 Remington Hotels

20:56 Horst Schulze

35:25 Sweet Green

37:26 Hoxton Hotels

38:14 Sharan Pasricha from Ennismore

38:52 IHG

38:58 Kimpton

40:45 Zoku


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest began his journey through hospitality working in a small property on the California coast and then built the number one hotel marketing blog in the world. He’s the publisher of Hospitality Daily, which is dedicated to helping hoteliers provide better guest experiences. Josiah Mackenzie is the Principal at Benchmark Research Partners, and he joins host Dan Ryan to share his experiences and passion about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a gift that you can give to others. It is the feeling of safety, of being creatively free and being inspired by others and what is around you.
  • The hospitality career path is more steep than it has ever been now and that makes it a perfect time to join this industry.
  • People who work in the hospitality industry have a desire to meet new people from across the world and serve these people. 
  • Hospitality is something that you learn from observation and seeing how the professionals handle themselves and clients.
  • When designing a great guest experience it is important to focus on the F&B moments as those can allow you to create moments to surprise and delight guests
  • Hospitality isn’t just welcoming people to your hotel. There is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes into getting everything.
  • Real estate is becoming a better environment to work in and it is worth investing your money into hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:21 “I think hospitality at its core is really a gift. It's a feeling of being safe, of being free, of being inspired.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:00 Skift

1:28 Andrew Benioff

1:30 Independent Lodging Congress

3:55 Aaron Richter

3:58 Equinox

13:34 Adele Gutman

15:41 The Grand Hotel

16:47 Remington Hotels

20:56 Horst Schulze

35:25 Sweet Green

37:26 Hoxton Hotels

38:14 Sharan Pasricha from Ennismore

38:52 IHG

38:58 Kimpton

40:45 Zoku


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Jun 2022 11:36:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4273 Today’s guest began his journey through hospitality working in a small property on the California coast and then built the number one hotel marketing blog in the world. He’s the publisher of Hospitality Daily, which is dedicated to helping hoteliers provide better guest experiences. Josiah Mackenzie is the Principal at Benchmark Research Partners, and he joins host Dan Ryan to share his experiences and passion about #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality is a gift that you can give to others. It is the feeling of safety, of being creatively free and being inspired by others and what is around you.
  • The hospitality career path is more steep than it has ever been now and that makes it a perfect time to join this industry.
  • People who work in the hospitality industry have a desire to meet new people from across the world and serve these people. 
  • Hospitality is something that you learn from observation and seeing how the professionals handle themselves and clients.
  • When designing a great guest experience it is important to focus on the F&B moments as those can allow you to create moments to surprise and delight guests
  • Hospitality isn’t just welcoming people to your hotel. There is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes into getting everything.
  • Real estate is becoming a better environment to work in and it is worth investing your money into hospitality.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:21 “I think hospitality at its core is really a gift. It's a feeling of being safe, of being free, of being inspired.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:00 Skift

1:28 Andrew Benioff

1:30 Independent Lodging Congress

3:55 Aaron Richter

3:58 Equinox

13:34 Adele Gutman

15:41 The Grand Hotel

16:47 Remington Hotels

20:56 Horst Schulze

35:25 Sweet Green

37:26 Hoxton Hotels

38:14 Sharan Pasricha from Ennismore

38:52 IHG

38:58 Kimpton

40:45 Zoku


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Human Connection - Davonne Reaves - Episode # 059 59 59 The Human Connection - Davonne Reaves - Episode # 059 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/8594cad4-8858-3ee0-99f4-56d1116b3e75 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f64aa166 Today’s guest has more than 14 years of experience in the lodging industry. She also has a passion for people and pineapples. Davonne Reaves is Founder/Hospitality Strategist at The Vonne Group. She is also the author of How To Buy A Hotel - Roadmap to Hotel Ownership. Davonne joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

  • Owning a hotel requires a lot of work, you have to keep up with the land and raise capital and hire staff among many other things. 
  • When starting your own business, you want to start small and work your way up to becoming a bigger company. 
  • When looking at buying a hotel, you want to know the surrounding community and have them feel comfortable with you.
  • People are what make the hospitality industry so special and unique, most people will stay at a hotel for the human connection and interaction.
  • You need to know your purpose, if you don’t have a clear purpose for your business that it will not last.
  • Knowing how to invest the right money into the right places for buying a hotel can help you to financially be all set. 
  • There will always be people who don’t believe in your dream or help you along the way, so it’s important to have thick skin and move past it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

18:52 “You could automate the hospitality industry as much as you possibly can, it's the people, it's even some people who would prefer to stay in a hotel over an Airbnb, just because of the human connection and that human interaction.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:50 ACS

4:05 Hyatt

4:42 Jessica Meyers

31:30 Shannon Steel

31:45 Dr. Mina James

31:58 Andre Arbrieten

57:35 Skift

57:39 Highgate

57:41 JLL

58:43 Swiss Hotel


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has more than 14 years of experience in the lodging industry. She also has a passion for people and pineapples. Davonne Reaves is Founder/Hospitality Strategist at The Vonne Group. She is also the author of How To Buy A Hotel - Roadmap to Hotel Ownership. Davonne joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

  • Owning a hotel requires a lot of work, you have to keep up with the land and raise capital and hire staff among many other things. 
  • When starting your own business, you want to start small and work your way up to becoming a bigger company. 
  • When looking at buying a hotel, you want to know the surrounding community and have them feel comfortable with you.
  • People are what make the hospitality industry so special and unique, most people will stay at a hotel for the human connection and interaction.
  • You need to know your purpose, if you don’t have a clear purpose for your business that it will not last.
  • Knowing how to invest the right money into the right places for buying a hotel can help you to financially be all set. 
  • There will always be people who don’t believe in your dream or help you along the way, so it’s important to have thick skin and move past it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

18:52 “You could automate the hospitality industry as much as you possibly can, it's the people, it's even some people who would prefer to stay in a hotel over an Airbnb, just because of the human connection and that human interaction.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:50 ACS

4:05 Hyatt

4:42 Jessica Meyers

31:30 Shannon Steel

31:45 Dr. Mina James

31:58 Andre Arbrieten

57:35 Skift

57:39 Highgate

57:41 JLL

58:43 Swiss Hotel


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4091 Today’s guest has more than 14 years of experience in the lodging industry. She also has a passion for people and pineapples. Davonne Reaves is Founder/Hospitality Strategist at The Vonne Group. She is also the author of How To Buy A Hotel - Roadmap to Hotel Ownership. Davonne joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

  • Owning a hotel requires a lot of work, you have to keep up with the land and raise capital and hire staff among many other things. 
  • When starting your own business, you want to start small and work your way up to becoming a bigger company. 
  • When looking at buying a hotel, you want to know the surrounding community and have them feel comfortable with you.
  • People are what make the hospitality industry so special and unique, most people will stay at a hotel for the human connection and interaction.
  • You need to know your purpose, if you don’t have a clear purpose for your business that it will not last.
  • Knowing how to invest the right money into the right places for buying a hotel can help you to financially be all set. 
  • There will always be people who don’t believe in your dream or help you along the way, so it’s important to have thick skin and move past it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

18:52 “You could automate the hospitality industry as much as you possibly can, it's the people, it's even some people who would prefer to stay in a hotel over an Airbnb, just because of the human connection and that human interaction.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:50 ACS

4:05 Hyatt

4:42 Jessica Meyers

31:30 Shannon Steel

31:45 Dr. Mina James

31:58 Andre Arbrieten

57:35 Skift

57:39 Highgate

57:41 JLL

58:43 Swiss Hotel


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Dovetail into Your Community - Aaron Richter - Episode # 058 58 58 Dovetail into Your Community - Aaron Richter - Episode # 058 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/3d281d04-ffa6-30fd-96ac-1f29cad19a7c https://share.transistor.fm/s/3c5bb0b8 Today’s guest has extensive global experience in designing mixed use developments. He has a passion for design and uses that passion to create beautiful spaces. Host Dan Ryan is joined by Aaron Richter, The Senior Vice President of Design for Equinox Brands at Equinox to talk about hospitality and what it all means to him 


 

Takeaways: 

  • Having a good sleep cycle is incredibly important to having a productive day and keeping you on track.
  • Building a community around your hospitality center and making it all in a walkable area is one way to feel a sense of community. 
  • People don’t go to hotels to drink at the pool anymore. Now, people are considerate of their health and want to travel to a place where they feel healthier and get a better experience. 
  • Being social is an important part of your well being. You want to be a part of the community that you are in.
  • You don’t need to have your hospitality space be the “cool new thing” or be a different space for everyone. Instead, just build your space to the people you want to attract to the space.
  • Make sure that you are showing appreciation for all the members of your team so they feel recognized and their hard work is being noticed. 
  • When designing a hospitality space, you want to keep the guests on the property and part of that is by having everything be visible to the guests as they are more likely to engage with something if they can see it first.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:34 “People are waking up again to the fact that oh I should take care of myself. My health is important. My immunity is important. This is all very topical and germane at the moment. People are saying I want to live a different way.”


 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:40 Starwood 

3:39 Barry Sternlicht

3:42 Park Lane Hotel

3:46 Patrick Jwuan

3:51 Vespa

11:09 Eurov

20:43 Josiah McKinsey

22:47 Dina Lamanna

22:49 HOK

23:00 Nike

23:09 Pottery Barn

24:30 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

25:07 John Hoke

32:18 Johnny Ives

32:19 Steve Jobs

46:23 Whole Foods

46:26 Trader Joe’s 

50:43 Seattle Mariners

51:00 Tiki Barber

1:00;18 Lone Tree Scout Reservation


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has extensive global experience in designing mixed use developments. He has a passion for design and uses that passion to create beautiful spaces. Host Dan Ryan is joined by Aaron Richter, The Senior Vice President of Design for Equinox Brands at Equinox to talk about hospitality and what it all means to him 


 

Takeaways: 

  • Having a good sleep cycle is incredibly important to having a productive day and keeping you on track.
  • Building a community around your hospitality center and making it all in a walkable area is one way to feel a sense of community. 
  • People don’t go to hotels to drink at the pool anymore. Now, people are considerate of their health and want to travel to a place where they feel healthier and get a better experience. 
  • Being social is an important part of your well being. You want to be a part of the community that you are in.
  • You don’t need to have your hospitality space be the “cool new thing” or be a different space for everyone. Instead, just build your space to the people you want to attract to the space.
  • Make sure that you are showing appreciation for all the members of your team so they feel recognized and their hard work is being noticed. 
  • When designing a hospitality space, you want to keep the guests on the property and part of that is by having everything be visible to the guests as they are more likely to engage with something if they can see it first.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:34 “People are waking up again to the fact that oh I should take care of myself. My health is important. My immunity is important. This is all very topical and germane at the moment. People are saying I want to live a different way.”


 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:40 Starwood 

3:39 Barry Sternlicht

3:42 Park Lane Hotel

3:46 Patrick Jwuan

3:51 Vespa

11:09 Eurov

20:43 Josiah McKinsey

22:47 Dina Lamanna

22:49 HOK

23:00 Nike

23:09 Pottery Barn

24:30 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

25:07 John Hoke

32:18 Johnny Ives

32:19 Steve Jobs

46:23 Whole Foods

46:26 Trader Joe’s 

50:43 Seattle Mariners

51:00 Tiki Barber

1:00;18 Lone Tree Scout Reservation


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3846 Today’s guest has extensive global experience in designing mixed use developments. He has a passion for design and uses that passion to create beautiful spaces. Host Dan Ryan is joined by Aaron Richter, The Senior Vice President of Design for Equinox Brands at Equinox to talk about hospitality and what it all means to him 


 

Takeaways: 

  • Having a good sleep cycle is incredibly important to having a productive day and keeping you on track.
  • Building a community around your hospitality center and making it all in a walkable area is one way to feel a sense of community. 
  • People don’t go to hotels to drink at the pool anymore. Now, people are considerate of their health and want to travel to a place where they feel healthier and get a better experience. 
  • Being social is an important part of your well being. You want to be a part of the community that you are in.
  • You don’t need to have your hospitality space be the “cool new thing” or be a different space for everyone. Instead, just build your space to the people you want to attract to the space.
  • Make sure that you are showing appreciation for all the members of your team so they feel recognized and their hard work is being noticed. 
  • When designing a hospitality space, you want to keep the guests on the property and part of that is by having everything be visible to the guests as they are more likely to engage with something if they can see it first.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:34 “People are waking up again to the fact that oh I should take care of myself. My health is important. My immunity is important. This is all very topical and germane at the moment. People are saying I want to live a different way.”


 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:40 Starwood 

3:39 Barry Sternlicht

3:42 Park Lane Hotel

3:46 Patrick Jwuan

3:51 Vespa

11:09 Eurov

20:43 Josiah McKinsey

22:47 Dina Lamanna

22:49 HOK

23:00 Nike

23:09 Pottery Barn

24:30 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

25:07 John Hoke

32:18 Johnny Ives

32:19 Steve Jobs

46:23 Whole Foods

46:26 Trader Joe’s 

50:43 Seattle Mariners

51:00 Tiki Barber

1:00;18 Lone Tree Scout Reservation


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Inspiring the Next Generation - Dina Lamanna - Episode # 057 57 57 Inspiring the Next Generation - Dina Lamanna - Episode # 057 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6624f542-0f5d-39ba-9c64-97514eb10562 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9f0cf28d Dina Lamanna is the Principal, Director of Hospitality Interior Design at The HOK NY Studio. She is a seasoned veteran in the design and development of international hotel projects. Her passion for guiding the next generation of designers is evident in her work as an adjunct professor at New York School of Interior Design. Dina joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

  • There’s a visual aspect to learning and teaching design, and it doesn’t always come to people naturally so you have to get creative with it.
  • There’s a stigma against being a designer that tends to scare people away but it is very different from what people would expect it to be.
  • Hospitality is providing guests and patients with an experience and a feeling when they enter a certain place. 
  • People spend 90% of their time indoors, so designers have a responsibility to create spaces that are unique and feel different from other places.
  • If you can make a space feel familiar and comfortable, then the stress level for that person will go down.
  • The last two years have actually opened up a tremendous opportunity for design to create the next space of buildings and environments that define our future.
  • Collaboration with others can help to unlock a new potential or opportunities for the design space.


Quote of the Show:

7:26 “We want to bring a return on investment that isn't always measured in a spreadsheet, that there's an instant impact that our guests or our patients feel when they enter these spaces.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

9:52 Aaron Anderson

25:46 Rudy Ruettiger


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Dina Lamanna is the Principal, Director of Hospitality Interior Design at The HOK NY Studio. She is a seasoned veteran in the design and development of international hotel projects. Her passion for guiding the next generation of designers is evident in her work as an adjunct professor at New York School of Interior Design. Dina joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

  • There’s a visual aspect to learning and teaching design, and it doesn’t always come to people naturally so you have to get creative with it.
  • There’s a stigma against being a designer that tends to scare people away but it is very different from what people would expect it to be.
  • Hospitality is providing guests and patients with an experience and a feeling when they enter a certain place. 
  • People spend 90% of their time indoors, so designers have a responsibility to create spaces that are unique and feel different from other places.
  • If you can make a space feel familiar and comfortable, then the stress level for that person will go down.
  • The last two years have actually opened up a tremendous opportunity for design to create the next space of buildings and environments that define our future.
  • Collaboration with others can help to unlock a new potential or opportunities for the design space.


Quote of the Show:

7:26 “We want to bring a return on investment that isn't always measured in a spreadsheet, that there's an instant impact that our guests or our patients feel when they enter these spaces.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

9:52 Aaron Anderson

25:46 Rudy Ruettiger


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3446 Dina Lamanna is the Principal, Director of Hospitality Interior Design at The HOK NY Studio. She is a seasoned veteran in the design and development of international hotel projects. Her passion for guiding the next generation of designers is evident in her work as an adjunct professor at New York School of Interior Design. Dina joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

  • There’s a visual aspect to learning and teaching design, and it doesn’t always come to people naturally so you have to get creative with it.
  • There’s a stigma against being a designer that tends to scare people away but it is very different from what people would expect it to be.
  • Hospitality is providing guests and patients with an experience and a feeling when they enter a certain place. 
  • People spend 90% of their time indoors, so designers have a responsibility to create spaces that are unique and feel different from other places.
  • If you can make a space feel familiar and comfortable, then the stress level for that person will go down.
  • The last two years have actually opened up a tremendous opportunity for design to create the next space of buildings and environments that define our future.
  • Collaboration with others can help to unlock a new potential or opportunities for the design space.


Quote of the Show:

7:26 “We want to bring a return on investment that isn't always measured in a spreadsheet, that there's an instant impact that our guests or our patients feel when they enter these spaces.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

9:52 Aaron Anderson

25:46 Rudy Ruettiger


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Being a Mentor - Jim Looney - Episode # 056 56 56 Being a Mentor - Jim Looney - Episode # 056 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/8cfc2b17-f268-3545-96db-843bc95babe4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c04f7008 Jim Looney is the Owner and Founder of Looney & Associates. With over 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he’s an industry leader and a mentor to many. His passion for hospitality is obvious in how he carries a tradition of integrity, quality and service in all of his projects. Jim joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey though #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to make sure that you are always meeting your deliverables and that you are keeping the clients and your employees happy.
  • Gaining the trust of a client is a big responsibility. It is your responsibility to make sure that trust is rewarded.
  • Hospitality is making others feel comfortable in your presence. You want others to feel comfortable around you.
  • Travel is something that can inspire people and help them come up with new and innovative ideas.
  • It’s important to sit back and take time to yourself occasionally and disconnect from all the technology around you.
  • The pandemic allowed people to explore hospitality and the world around them in a different lens.
  • A design has to feel immediately comfortable. You want guests to feel welcomed by the design and enjoy being where they are.


Quote of the Show:

11:01 “Hospitality to me is making people feel comfortable in your presence.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

4:36 Michael Bedner

4:41 Lenny Parker

4:51 Trish Wilson

12:38 Dallas Independent School District

22:12 Museum of Modern Art

23:52 Marriott Wailea

24:39 John Stobbe

34:28 James Dunlop

29:24 Jim Romelspa

43:40 The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

43:43 Ayn Rand


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Jim Looney is the Owner and Founder of Looney & Associates. With over 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he’s an industry leader and a mentor to many. His passion for hospitality is obvious in how he carries a tradition of integrity, quality and service in all of his projects. Jim joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey though #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to make sure that you are always meeting your deliverables and that you are keeping the clients and your employees happy.
  • Gaining the trust of a client is a big responsibility. It is your responsibility to make sure that trust is rewarded.
  • Hospitality is making others feel comfortable in your presence. You want others to feel comfortable around you.
  • Travel is something that can inspire people and help them come up with new and innovative ideas.
  • It’s important to sit back and take time to yourself occasionally and disconnect from all the technology around you.
  • The pandemic allowed people to explore hospitality and the world around them in a different lens.
  • A design has to feel immediately comfortable. You want guests to feel welcomed by the design and enjoy being where they are.


Quote of the Show:

11:01 “Hospitality to me is making people feel comfortable in your presence.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

4:36 Michael Bedner

4:41 Lenny Parker

4:51 Trish Wilson

12:38 Dallas Independent School District

22:12 Museum of Modern Art

23:52 Marriott Wailea

24:39 John Stobbe

34:28 James Dunlop

29:24 Jim Romelspa

43:40 The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

43:43 Ayn Rand


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3400 Jim Looney is the Owner and Founder of Looney & Associates. With over 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he’s an industry leader and a mentor to many. His passion for hospitality is obvious in how he carries a tradition of integrity, quality and service in all of his projects. Jim joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey though #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

  • You want to make sure that you are always meeting your deliverables and that you are keeping the clients and your employees happy.
  • Gaining the trust of a client is a big responsibility. It is your responsibility to make sure that trust is rewarded.
  • Hospitality is making others feel comfortable in your presence. You want others to feel comfortable around you.
  • Travel is something that can inspire people and help them come up with new and innovative ideas.
  • It’s important to sit back and take time to yourself occasionally and disconnect from all the technology around you.
  • The pandemic allowed people to explore hospitality and the world around them in a different lens.
  • A design has to feel immediately comfortable. You want guests to feel welcomed by the design and enjoy being where they are.


Quote of the Show:

11:01 “Hospitality to me is making people feel comfortable in your presence.”

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

 

4:36 Michael Bedner

4:41 Lenny Parker

4:51 Trish Wilson

12:38 Dallas Independent School District

22:12 Museum of Modern Art

23:52 Marriott Wailea

24:39 John Stobbe

34:28 James Dunlop

29:24 Jim Romelspa

43:40 The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

43:43 Ayn Rand


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Vision of Collaboration - Staci Patton - Episode # 055 55 55 A Vision of Collaboration - Staci Patton - Episode # 055 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/a8d1433c-4934-3e0c-a3a2-28670e0c967a https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a6274d5 Staci Patton is a Principal of Hospitality Interior Design Director at DLR Group. She's a passionate and creative designer who creates indigenous and authentically curated spaces. Staci joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she brings her southern hospitality charm and collaborative effort to a wonderful industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Leadership in the hospitality industry is incredibly important and it can lead to new ideas in the industry.
  • Innovation can bring different perspectives to a project and can help separate you from others in your field.
  • Hospitality is the soul and spirit of how we welcome people in. It’s not limited to just hotels and restaurants.
  • Southern hospitality is a big influence for the meaning of hospitality as it provides people with a sense of feeling welcomed and at home.
  • You want to make others feel like you are working together, especially with clients. You want them to feel like it’s a collaborative effort.
  • As a leader, it is your responsibility to teach others and have them reach their highest points so that they can become a leader themselves and continue the cycle.
  • Putting others first is a key trait in this industry. You want to make sure there is space to grow for others and have their ideas heard.
  • A lot of people have left the hospitality industry during the pandemic, and now with things returning to normal there is a staffing shortage and it makes it more complicated to work on a project.


Quote of the Show:

16:35 “It's the soul and the spirit of how we welcome people in. It doesn't have to be a hotel. It doesn't have to be a restaurant. it's really about how you welcome someone in and what are those delights that you want them to receive?”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:56 Joe Chikora

8:28 Ed Williams

9:07 Concord Hospitality

30:26 Hilton Hotels

33:06 Sherman Associates

42:37 Joanna Abrams

42:38 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Staci Patton is a Principal of Hospitality Interior Design Director at DLR Group. She's a passionate and creative designer who creates indigenous and authentically curated spaces. Staci joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she brings her southern hospitality charm and collaborative effort to a wonderful industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Leadership in the hospitality industry is incredibly important and it can lead to new ideas in the industry.
  • Innovation can bring different perspectives to a project and can help separate you from others in your field.
  • Hospitality is the soul and spirit of how we welcome people in. It’s not limited to just hotels and restaurants.
  • Southern hospitality is a big influence for the meaning of hospitality as it provides people with a sense of feeling welcomed and at home.
  • You want to make others feel like you are working together, especially with clients. You want them to feel like it’s a collaborative effort.
  • As a leader, it is your responsibility to teach others and have them reach their highest points so that they can become a leader themselves and continue the cycle.
  • Putting others first is a key trait in this industry. You want to make sure there is space to grow for others and have their ideas heard.
  • A lot of people have left the hospitality industry during the pandemic, and now with things returning to normal there is a staffing shortage and it makes it more complicated to work on a project.


Quote of the Show:

16:35 “It's the soul and the spirit of how we welcome people in. It doesn't have to be a hotel. It doesn't have to be a restaurant. it's really about how you welcome someone in and what are those delights that you want them to receive?”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:56 Joe Chikora

8:28 Ed Williams

9:07 Concord Hospitality

30:26 Hilton Hotels

33:06 Sherman Associates

42:37 Joanna Abrams

42:38 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3364 Staci Patton is a Principal of Hospitality Interior Design Director at DLR Group. She's a passionate and creative designer who creates indigenous and authentically curated spaces. Staci joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she brings her southern hospitality charm and collaborative effort to a wonderful industry.


Takeaways: 

  • Leadership in the hospitality industry is incredibly important and it can lead to new ideas in the industry.
  • Innovation can bring different perspectives to a project and can help separate you from others in your field.
  • Hospitality is the soul and spirit of how we welcome people in. It’s not limited to just hotels and restaurants.
  • Southern hospitality is a big influence for the meaning of hospitality as it provides people with a sense of feeling welcomed and at home.
  • You want to make others feel like you are working together, especially with clients. You want them to feel like it’s a collaborative effort.
  • As a leader, it is your responsibility to teach others and have them reach their highest points so that they can become a leader themselves and continue the cycle.
  • Putting others first is a key trait in this industry. You want to make sure there is space to grow for others and have their ideas heard.
  • A lot of people have left the hospitality industry during the pandemic, and now with things returning to normal there is a staffing shortage and it makes it more complicated to work on a project.


Quote of the Show:

16:35 “It's the soul and the spirit of how we welcome people in. It doesn't have to be a hotel. It doesn't have to be a restaurant. it's really about how you welcome someone in and what are those delights that you want them to receive?”


Links:


Shout Outs:

5:56 Joe Chikora

8:28 Ed Williams

9:07 Concord Hospitality

30:26 Hilton Hotels

33:06 Sherman Associates

42:37 Joanna Abrams

42:38 Mindclick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality Laboratory - Will Meyer - Episode # 054 54 54 Hospitality Laboratory - Will Meyer - Episode # 054 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6fb3270a-3a23-3e4a-9276-e508d58a4076 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d591b205 Will Meyer is the Owner and Co-Founder at Meyer Davis Studios Inc. He believes that great design works on multiple levels and designs seamless physical experiences tailored to his clients individuality. Will joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When working in a partnership, it’s important to have respect for the other person's ideas and recognize that it doesn’t matter where the idea comes from as long as it is good.
  • Residential and hospitality projects have similar demographics which can make for interesting design options. 
  • Hospitality is an elevated sense of home. You want people to feel comfortable and connected to the elements in hospitality and have it feel welcoming.
  • It’s important to encourage people and make a special environment that allows them to grow and flourish. 
  • The work that is done in the hospitality world tends to look like it is based on where it is and who it is about rather than being about the designer themselves.
  • Using the environment as inspiration for your design in hospitality is something that creates an even better experience for guests and the community.
  • Use design as a way to connect with guests and the surrounding areas. 


Quote of the Show:

 

21:37 I look at hospitality as an elevated sense of the home. A heightened sense of residential comforts and elements that create a new space within the hospitality world that make people feel comfortable, make people feel inspired that create a new turning of the dial of their experience in hospitality. But grounded by that sense of residential home feel that makes people feel comfortable.”


Links:



Shout Outs:

 

1:01 David Gaddie

1:02 “A Beautiful Dreamer” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVCNh6_YpI8 

3:30 HD Summit

3:57 Michael Bedner

3:59 Trish Wilson

5:55 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

7:35 Auburn University

8:42 David Raleigh

14:24 V Bar in Las Vegas

14:31 David Raybin 1

4:32 Will Regin

15:21 Venetian

17:10 Moss Farmhouse

28:30 Four Seasons

28:31 Mandarin Oriental

28:32 Rosewood

28:36 W Hotels

34:50 Baccarat


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Will Meyer is the Owner and Co-Founder at Meyer Davis Studios Inc. He believes that great design works on multiple levels and designs seamless physical experiences tailored to his clients individuality. Will joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When working in a partnership, it’s important to have respect for the other person's ideas and recognize that it doesn’t matter where the idea comes from as long as it is good.
  • Residential and hospitality projects have similar demographics which can make for interesting design options. 
  • Hospitality is an elevated sense of home. You want people to feel comfortable and connected to the elements in hospitality and have it feel welcoming.
  • It’s important to encourage people and make a special environment that allows them to grow and flourish. 
  • The work that is done in the hospitality world tends to look like it is based on where it is and who it is about rather than being about the designer themselves.
  • Using the environment as inspiration for your design in hospitality is something that creates an even better experience for guests and the community.
  • Use design as a way to connect with guests and the surrounding areas. 


Quote of the Show:

 

21:37 I look at hospitality as an elevated sense of the home. A heightened sense of residential comforts and elements that create a new space within the hospitality world that make people feel comfortable, make people feel inspired that create a new turning of the dial of their experience in hospitality. But grounded by that sense of residential home feel that makes people feel comfortable.”


Links:



Shout Outs:

 

1:01 David Gaddie

1:02 “A Beautiful Dreamer” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVCNh6_YpI8 

3:30 HD Summit

3:57 Michael Bedner

3:59 Trish Wilson

5:55 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

7:35 Auburn University

8:42 David Raleigh

14:24 V Bar in Las Vegas

14:31 David Raybin 1

4:32 Will Regin

15:21 Venetian

17:10 Moss Farmhouse

28:30 Four Seasons

28:31 Mandarin Oriental

28:32 Rosewood

28:36 W Hotels

34:50 Baccarat


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2659 Will Meyer is the Owner and Co-Founder at Meyer Davis Studios Inc. He believes that great design works on multiple levels and designs seamless physical experiences tailored to his clients individuality. Will joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When working in a partnership, it’s important to have respect for the other person's ideas and recognize that it doesn’t matter where the idea comes from as long as it is good.
  • Residential and hospitality projects have similar demographics which can make for interesting design options. 
  • Hospitality is an elevated sense of home. You want people to feel comfortable and connected to the elements in hospitality and have it feel welcoming.
  • It’s important to encourage people and make a special environment that allows them to grow and flourish. 
  • The work that is done in the hospitality world tends to look like it is based on where it is and who it is about rather than being about the designer themselves.
  • Using the environment as inspiration for your design in hospitality is something that creates an even better experience for guests and the community.
  • Use design as a way to connect with guests and the surrounding areas. 


Quote of the Show:

 

21:37 I look at hospitality as an elevated sense of the home. A heightened sense of residential comforts and elements that create a new space within the hospitality world that make people feel comfortable, make people feel inspired that create a new turning of the dial of their experience in hospitality. But grounded by that sense of residential home feel that makes people feel comfortable.”


Links:



Shout Outs:

 

1:01 David Gaddie

1:02 “A Beautiful Dreamer” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVCNh6_YpI8 

3:30 HD Summit

3:57 Michael Bedner

3:59 Trish Wilson

5:55 “Rookie Smarts” by Liz Wiseman

7:35 Auburn University

8:42 David Raleigh

14:24 V Bar in Las Vegas

14:31 David Raybin 1

4:32 Will Regin

15:21 Venetian

17:10 Moss Farmhouse

28:30 Four Seasons

28:31 Mandarin Oriental

28:32 Rosewood

28:36 W Hotels

34:50 Baccarat


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Creating Memories - Jennifer Barnwell - Episode # 053 53 53 Creating Memories - Jennifer Barnwell - Episode # 053 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/5fcac248-5c97-3209-bf9a-a90e053af15c https://share.transistor.fm/s/a57091b8 Jennifer Barnwell is the President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. She can see through the maze of real estate economics and is passionate about hospitality. She is also a member of and also on the Board of Advisors at the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association. Jen joins host Dan Ryan to talk her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to surprise and delight your guests. You want to make them feel welcomed and at home when they stay at your hotel.
  • Sometimes a switch in products or a switch in systems is something that can really help drive your bottom line. 
  • Make sure that your team is being used efficiently. You don’t want to overload them or put them on tasks that aren’t their strong suit.
  • Having the owner's finger on the pulse helps to make decisions and changes run smoother. 
  • Hospitality is about the experience. You want to peak the senses of your guest and make them feel interested and excited about where they are. 
  • You want to create memories for your guests and have them be positive and something they can take with them when they leave the hotel. 
  • Independent hotels have the ability to connect to a place in a very powerful way. It feels authentic and natural. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:12 “For me, it's all about the experience. I step inside, how does it make me feel, what catches my eye, what do I see? That's interesting. What kind of peaks my curiosity, what about all my senses? That's how I tend to define it, because that is what is memorable to me.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 Pebblebrook

0:50 CapEx

1:09 Independent lodging Congress

8:49 Bill Kimpton

9:34 Sir Francis Drake in San Fransico 

28:16 Death & Company

28:17 Dave Kaplan

28:59 Bashar Wali

41:33 Cameron Sperance


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Jennifer Barnwell is the President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. She can see through the maze of real estate economics and is passionate about hospitality. She is also a member of and also on the Board of Advisors at the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association. Jen joins host Dan Ryan to talk her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to surprise and delight your guests. You want to make them feel welcomed and at home when they stay at your hotel.
  • Sometimes a switch in products or a switch in systems is something that can really help drive your bottom line. 
  • Make sure that your team is being used efficiently. You don’t want to overload them or put them on tasks that aren’t their strong suit.
  • Having the owner's finger on the pulse helps to make decisions and changes run smoother. 
  • Hospitality is about the experience. You want to peak the senses of your guest and make them feel interested and excited about where they are. 
  • You want to create memories for your guests and have them be positive and something they can take with them when they leave the hotel. 
  • Independent hotels have the ability to connect to a place in a very powerful way. It feels authentic and natural. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:12 “For me, it's all about the experience. I step inside, how does it make me feel, what catches my eye, what do I see? That's interesting. What kind of peaks my curiosity, what about all my senses? That's how I tend to define it, because that is what is memorable to me.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 Pebblebrook

0:50 CapEx

1:09 Independent lodging Congress

8:49 Bill Kimpton

9:34 Sir Francis Drake in San Fransico 

28:16 Death & Company

28:17 Dave Kaplan

28:59 Bashar Wali

41:33 Cameron Sperance


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 11 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3885 Jennifer Barnwell is the President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. She can see through the maze of real estate economics and is passionate about hospitality. She is also a member of and also on the Board of Advisors at the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association. Jen joins host Dan Ryan to talk her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to surprise and delight your guests. You want to make them feel welcomed and at home when they stay at your hotel.
  • Sometimes a switch in products or a switch in systems is something that can really help drive your bottom line. 
  • Make sure that your team is being used efficiently. You don’t want to overload them or put them on tasks that aren’t their strong suit.
  • Having the owner's finger on the pulse helps to make decisions and changes run smoother. 
  • Hospitality is about the experience. You want to peak the senses of your guest and make them feel interested and excited about where they are. 
  • You want to create memories for your guests and have them be positive and something they can take with them when they leave the hotel. 
  • Independent hotels have the ability to connect to a place in a very powerful way. It feels authentic and natural. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:12 “For me, it's all about the experience. I step inside, how does it make me feel, what catches my eye, what do I see? That's interesting. What kind of peaks my curiosity, what about all my senses? That's how I tend to define it, because that is what is memorable to me.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:48 Pebblebrook

0:50 CapEx

1:09 Independent lodging Congress

8:49 Bill Kimpton

9:34 Sir Francis Drake in San Fransico 

28:16 Death & Company

28:17 Dave Kaplan

28:59 Bashar Wali

41:33 Cameron Sperance


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Service Through Hospitality - Ian Rolston - Episode # 052 52 52 Service Through Hospitality - Ian Rolston - Episode # 052 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/fe7abc80-16ef-3386-bdd6-efa24298d65b https://share.transistor.fm/s/860c8329 Ian Rolston is the Founder of Decanthropy and the President at Interior Designers of Canada He knows how huge of a role that community and diversity play in hospitality and design, and he wants everyone else to see that. Ian joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is a great opportunity to serve humanity. It allows you to connect with others and the world around you.
  • Interior design really speaks to the guests as a whole. It brings a sense of community to the guest and makes them feel welcomed and at home.
  • You want to try and collaborate with other professionals who are not like you or think differently than you, as that brings a whole new perspective to your work.
  • Align with other great organizations and community leaders so that you can better solve issues within your community.
  • It’s important to shift the conversation around diversity to how it really is a fantastic business approach for companies and organizations
  • You need to have the confidence to stand up if you are being overlooked but also some vulnerability as well.
  • Part of hospitality is about sharing. Everyone can benefit from sharing and it can help shorten other people’s journeys.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:40  “There's just something about interior design that I think really speaks to the heart, body, mind and soul of end-users that provides this real sort of connective tissue to both the community of users and how they're interacting with space.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

2:04 Yabu Pushlberg

2:07 Hirsch Bedner

31:51 AiLun Ku

31:53 Opportunity Network

35:26 Chief Robert Joseph

45:24 John Doyle

47:27 Alice Stanky

47:30 Anne Garis

47:47 Talking Heads


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Ian Rolston is the Founder of Decanthropy and the President at Interior Designers of Canada He knows how huge of a role that community and diversity play in hospitality and design, and he wants everyone else to see that. Ian joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is a great opportunity to serve humanity. It allows you to connect with others and the world around you.
  • Interior design really speaks to the guests as a whole. It brings a sense of community to the guest and makes them feel welcomed and at home.
  • You want to try and collaborate with other professionals who are not like you or think differently than you, as that brings a whole new perspective to your work.
  • Align with other great organizations and community leaders so that you can better solve issues within your community.
  • It’s important to shift the conversation around diversity to how it really is a fantastic business approach for companies and organizations
  • You need to have the confidence to stand up if you are being overlooked but also some vulnerability as well.
  • Part of hospitality is about sharing. Everyone can benefit from sharing and it can help shorten other people’s journeys.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:40  “There's just something about interior design that I think really speaks to the heart, body, mind and soul of end-users that provides this real sort of connective tissue to both the community of users and how they're interacting with space.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

2:04 Yabu Pushlberg

2:07 Hirsch Bedner

31:51 AiLun Ku

31:53 Opportunity Network

35:26 Chief Robert Joseph

45:24 John Doyle

47:27 Alice Stanky

47:30 Anne Garis

47:47 Talking Heads


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 04 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3634 Ian Rolston is the Founder of Decanthropy and the President at Interior Designers of Canada He knows how huge of a role that community and diversity play in hospitality and design, and he wants everyone else to see that. Ian joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is a great opportunity to serve humanity. It allows you to connect with others and the world around you.
  • Interior design really speaks to the guests as a whole. It brings a sense of community to the guest and makes them feel welcomed and at home.
  • You want to try and collaborate with other professionals who are not like you or think differently than you, as that brings a whole new perspective to your work.
  • Align with other great organizations and community leaders so that you can better solve issues within your community.
  • It’s important to shift the conversation around diversity to how it really is a fantastic business approach for companies and organizations
  • You need to have the confidence to stand up if you are being overlooked but also some vulnerability as well.
  • Part of hospitality is about sharing. Everyone can benefit from sharing and it can help shorten other people’s journeys.


Quote of the Show:

 

5:40  “There's just something about interior design that I think really speaks to the heart, body, mind and soul of end-users that provides this real sort of connective tissue to both the community of users and how they're interacting with space.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

2:04 Yabu Pushlberg

2:07 Hirsch Bedner

31:51 AiLun Ku

31:53 Opportunity Network

35:26 Chief Robert Joseph

45:24 John Doyle

47:27 Alice Stanky

47:30 Anne Garis

47:47 Talking Heads


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Love and Reckless Abandon - Clodagh - Episode # 051 51 51 Love and Reckless Abandon - Clodagh - Episode # 051 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/d0353666-918e-3fbf-8589-65abcb5fd091 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3826adf5 Clodagh is the Founder of Clodagh Design. After suffering a horrible accident, she found her passion for being a designer. Her Irish heritage gives her a unique perspective of design, which she approaches with love and reckless abandon. Clodagh joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Approach design with love and reckless abandon. You need to be brave and bold to create something new and innovative. 
  • At the age of 17, Clodagh opened her first business. She used her determination to persevere through all the challenges.
  • The BBC made a documentary about Clodagh called The Fashion Designer. She has been all over the world and met many interesting people during that time. 
  • Hire people that are better than yourself. That way you can surround yourself with people who can make you better and teach you more. 
  • Focus on trying to design the irritations out of people’s lives. You want to bring them joy and make the furniture feel like it is giving them a hug.
  • Everyday, take a breath of the new day and appreciate where you are. Taking a moment to sit down and just focus on your breathing brings you a calming sensation.
  • Take some time to get outside and enjoy your surroundings. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:00 “All of my learning comes from observation really, since I haven't had any formal training of any kind, just observing what makes people happy…I'm trying to design the irritations out of people's lives.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

9:43 Irish Cancer Society

9:48 Hibernate Hotel Ireland

9:59 Irish Times

10:26 Henri Bendel

10:29 Lord and Taylor

11:56 The Fashion Maker documentary by BBC

19:43 Ashford Castle

28:07 Cranwell

29:15 Robert Kennedy

30:46 Sarah Klymson

30:47 Hyatt

34:45 Brickell Miami

35:39 Caledonia

45:45 Edward DeBono

45:59 Dr. Richie Davidson

49:38 Coretta Scott King

49:39 Martin Luther King Jr


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Clodagh is the Founder of Clodagh Design. After suffering a horrible accident, she found her passion for being a designer. Her Irish heritage gives her a unique perspective of design, which she approaches with love and reckless abandon. Clodagh joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Approach design with love and reckless abandon. You need to be brave and bold to create something new and innovative. 
  • At the age of 17, Clodagh opened her first business. She used her determination to persevere through all the challenges.
  • The BBC made a documentary about Clodagh called The Fashion Designer. She has been all over the world and met many interesting people during that time. 
  • Hire people that are better than yourself. That way you can surround yourself with people who can make you better and teach you more. 
  • Focus on trying to design the irritations out of people’s lives. You want to bring them joy and make the furniture feel like it is giving them a hug.
  • Everyday, take a breath of the new day and appreciate where you are. Taking a moment to sit down and just focus on your breathing brings you a calming sensation.
  • Take some time to get outside and enjoy your surroundings. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:00 “All of my learning comes from observation really, since I haven't had any formal training of any kind, just observing what makes people happy…I'm trying to design the irritations out of people's lives.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

9:43 Irish Cancer Society

9:48 Hibernate Hotel Ireland

9:59 Irish Times

10:26 Henri Bendel

10:29 Lord and Taylor

11:56 The Fashion Maker documentary by BBC

19:43 Ashford Castle

28:07 Cranwell

29:15 Robert Kennedy

30:46 Sarah Klymson

30:47 Hyatt

34:45 Brickell Miami

35:39 Caledonia

45:45 Edward DeBono

45:59 Dr. Richie Davidson

49:38 Coretta Scott King

49:39 Martin Luther King Jr


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3597 Clodagh is the Founder of Clodagh Design. After suffering a horrible accident, she found her passion for being a designer. Her Irish heritage gives her a unique perspective of design, which she approaches with love and reckless abandon. Clodagh joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Approach design with love and reckless abandon. You need to be brave and bold to create something new and innovative. 
  • At the age of 17, Clodagh opened her first business. She used her determination to persevere through all the challenges.
  • The BBC made a documentary about Clodagh called The Fashion Designer. She has been all over the world and met many interesting people during that time. 
  • Hire people that are better than yourself. That way you can surround yourself with people who can make you better and teach you more. 
  • Focus on trying to design the irritations out of people’s lives. You want to bring them joy and make the furniture feel like it is giving them a hug.
  • Everyday, take a breath of the new day and appreciate where you are. Taking a moment to sit down and just focus on your breathing brings you a calming sensation.
  • Take some time to get outside and enjoy your surroundings. 


Quote of the Show:

 

22:00 “All of my learning comes from observation really, since I haven't had any formal training of any kind, just observing what makes people happy…I'm trying to design the irritations out of people's lives.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

9:43 Irish Cancer Society

9:48 Hibernate Hotel Ireland

9:59 Irish Times

10:26 Henri Bendel

10:29 Lord and Taylor

11:56 The Fashion Maker documentary by BBC

19:43 Ashford Castle

28:07 Cranwell

29:15 Robert Kennedy

30:46 Sarah Klymson

30:47 Hyatt

34:45 Brickell Miami

35:39 Caledonia

45:45 Edward DeBono

45:59 Dr. Richie Davidson

49:38 Coretta Scott King

49:39 Martin Luther King Jr


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Generosity of Hospitality - Kristen Conry - Episode # 050 50 50 The Generosity of Hospitality - Kristen Conry - Episode # 050 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/c3e60844-ec2d-3c8e-b245-ee22cea649b3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f10c99a Kristen Conry is the Senior Vice President of Global Design for Marriott International. She is a hospitality design guru and is the embodiment of the spirit of generosity. She’s worked with some of the most influential leaders in this industry and she shares their passion for creating unique experiences for guests. Kristen sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Innovation and new design ideas are something that should be at the forefront of all aspects of hospitality.
  • Hospitality has influenced other settings such as corporate settings and other places. The design aspect has launched a new way of looking at spaces. 
  • Many hotels don’t live up to the value of “people first”. You want to make sure the core of your industry is reflected by how you treat your employees.
  • Hospitality is the spirit of generosity. It is the feeling you get when you give to others in a way that is selfless to you.
  • Design can’t make up for bad service. It is still important but you need to make sure the service you provide is at the top of its game.
  • Given the constraints with architecture now, it has forced companies to be more creative and create different experiences by focusing on what really matters and what has the most impact. 
  • We’ve seen the baseline for design in American culture elevate in recent years and that is a positive and exciting aspect.


Quote of the Show:

 

19:09 “To me, hospitality is that spirit of generosity. And it's when we anticipate and we delight people and we do it in that really selfless way that it delights us to do so.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:33 Hyatt

0:36 Larry Traxler

13:18 Arnie Sorenson

16:01 Marriott Bethesda Hotel

16:07 Berman Falk

16:49 Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership

16:55 Howard University

16:56 Damon Lawrence

34:40 United Nations

36:15 Ed Webber

36:23 Scott Fortman

36:24 Richard Gibbons

38:07 John Meiser

38:27 Emily Keip

38:54 Jordan Mozer

39:01 Adam Lara

39:26 Jay Pecotte

45:05 Back to the Future

47:34 Starwood

1;01:23 HD Expo

1;01:24 BDNY


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Kristen Conry is the Senior Vice President of Global Design for Marriott International. She is a hospitality design guru and is the embodiment of the spirit of generosity. She’s worked with some of the most influential leaders in this industry and she shares their passion for creating unique experiences for guests. Kristen sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Innovation and new design ideas are something that should be at the forefront of all aspects of hospitality.
  • Hospitality has influenced other settings such as corporate settings and other places. The design aspect has launched a new way of looking at spaces. 
  • Many hotels don’t live up to the value of “people first”. You want to make sure the core of your industry is reflected by how you treat your employees.
  • Hospitality is the spirit of generosity. It is the feeling you get when you give to others in a way that is selfless to you.
  • Design can’t make up for bad service. It is still important but you need to make sure the service you provide is at the top of its game.
  • Given the constraints with architecture now, it has forced companies to be more creative and create different experiences by focusing on what really matters and what has the most impact. 
  • We’ve seen the baseline for design in American culture elevate in recent years and that is a positive and exciting aspect.


Quote of the Show:

 

19:09 “To me, hospitality is that spirit of generosity. And it's when we anticipate and we delight people and we do it in that really selfless way that it delights us to do so.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:33 Hyatt

0:36 Larry Traxler

13:18 Arnie Sorenson

16:01 Marriott Bethesda Hotel

16:07 Berman Falk

16:49 Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership

16:55 Howard University

16:56 Damon Lawrence

34:40 United Nations

36:15 Ed Webber

36:23 Scott Fortman

36:24 Richard Gibbons

38:07 John Meiser

38:27 Emily Keip

38:54 Jordan Mozer

39:01 Adam Lara

39:26 Jay Pecotte

45:05 Back to the Future

47:34 Starwood

1;01:23 HD Expo

1;01:24 BDNY


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3878 Kristen Conry is the Senior Vice President of Global Design for Marriott International. She is a hospitality design guru and is the embodiment of the spirit of generosity. She’s worked with some of the most influential leaders in this industry and she shares their passion for creating unique experiences for guests. Kristen sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey in #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Innovation and new design ideas are something that should be at the forefront of all aspects of hospitality.
  • Hospitality has influenced other settings such as corporate settings and other places. The design aspect has launched a new way of looking at spaces. 
  • Many hotels don’t live up to the value of “people first”. You want to make sure the core of your industry is reflected by how you treat your employees.
  • Hospitality is the spirit of generosity. It is the feeling you get when you give to others in a way that is selfless to you.
  • Design can’t make up for bad service. It is still important but you need to make sure the service you provide is at the top of its game.
  • Given the constraints with architecture now, it has forced companies to be more creative and create different experiences by focusing on what really matters and what has the most impact. 
  • We’ve seen the baseline for design in American culture elevate in recent years and that is a positive and exciting aspect.


Quote of the Show:

 

19:09 “To me, hospitality is that spirit of generosity. And it's when we anticipate and we delight people and we do it in that really selfless way that it delights us to do so.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:33 Hyatt

0:36 Larry Traxler

13:18 Arnie Sorenson

16:01 Marriott Bethesda Hotel

16:07 Berman Falk

16:49 Marriott Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership

16:55 Howard University

16:56 Damon Lawrence

34:40 United Nations

36:15 Ed Webber

36:23 Scott Fortman

36:24 Richard Gibbons

38:07 John Meiser

38:27 Emily Keip

38:54 Jordan Mozer

39:01 Adam Lara

39:26 Jay Pecotte

45:05 Back to the Future

47:34 Starwood

1;01:23 HD Expo

1;01:24 BDNY


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Thinking Outside of the Box - James Cull - Episode # 049 49 49 Thinking Outside of the Box - James Cull - Episode # 049 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/64f4b6e5-a711-3780-a5d0-8b05e9da0859 https://share.transistor.fm/s/33e203b8 James Cull is the Design Director at Rottet Studio. He has had a passion for design since he was 10 years old, and he brings that passion to every project that he works on. James sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s the job of the hospitality expert to take a hotel and make it a special place that feels warm and kind. 
  • There are two approaches to design, you want to understand the customer and the ethos of the brand. That way you can tailor the design to the guests.
  • You want the guests to leave the hotel where they feel like they had an enriching experience and make sure to interest them.
  • Hospitality is all about making people feel comfortable in a space that isn’t familiar to them. You want to make them feel like it’s a home away from home. 
  • Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. That is how innovation is created and it allows for new opportunities.
  • It’s good to have people with different views or ways of working all on the same project. That can allow for different perspectives to overlap and create new ideas. 
  • There is a lot of flexibility and openness in different disciplines of design. 


Quote of the Show:

 

15:55 “There’s a romance in that, I think ties back to this idea of hospitality and making people feel comfortable in a space that they're not typically because they're not familiar with it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Marriott Headquarters Hotel

0:52 Arne Sorenson

8:44 Pratt Institute

10:09 Barack Obama

23:00 Yabu Pushelberg

23:10 Lizette Viloria

23:15 Rockwell

23:26 George and Glenn

24:26 David Davis

24:27 Lauren Rottet

30:59 Platinum Circle Awards

31:03 Larry Traxler

31:13 Jordan Mozer

38:44 Belmond

39:12 LVMH

44:57 “Drawing From the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> James Cull is the Design Director at Rottet Studio. He has had a passion for design since he was 10 years old, and he brings that passion to every project that he works on. James sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s the job of the hospitality expert to take a hotel and make it a special place that feels warm and kind. 
  • There are two approaches to design, you want to understand the customer and the ethos of the brand. That way you can tailor the design to the guests.
  • You want the guests to leave the hotel where they feel like they had an enriching experience and make sure to interest them.
  • Hospitality is all about making people feel comfortable in a space that isn’t familiar to them. You want to make them feel like it’s a home away from home. 
  • Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. That is how innovation is created and it allows for new opportunities.
  • It’s good to have people with different views or ways of working all on the same project. That can allow for different perspectives to overlap and create new ideas. 
  • There is a lot of flexibility and openness in different disciplines of design. 


Quote of the Show:

 

15:55 “There’s a romance in that, I think ties back to this idea of hospitality and making people feel comfortable in a space that they're not typically because they're not familiar with it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Marriott Headquarters Hotel

0:52 Arne Sorenson

8:44 Pratt Institute

10:09 Barack Obama

23:00 Yabu Pushelberg

23:10 Lizette Viloria

23:15 Rockwell

23:26 George and Glenn

24:26 David Davis

24:27 Lauren Rottet

30:59 Platinum Circle Awards

31:03 Larry Traxler

31:13 Jordan Mozer

38:44 Belmond

39:12 LVMH

44:57 “Drawing From the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3389 James Cull is the Design Director at Rottet Studio. He has had a passion for design since he was 10 years old, and he brings that passion to every project that he works on. James sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his journey through #hospitality and what it all means to him.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s the job of the hospitality expert to take a hotel and make it a special place that feels warm and kind. 
  • There are two approaches to design, you want to understand the customer and the ethos of the brand. That way you can tailor the design to the guests.
  • You want the guests to leave the hotel where they feel like they had an enriching experience and make sure to interest them.
  • Hospitality is all about making people feel comfortable in a space that isn’t familiar to them. You want to make them feel like it’s a home away from home. 
  • Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. That is how innovation is created and it allows for new opportunities.
  • It’s good to have people with different views or ways of working all on the same project. That can allow for different perspectives to overlap and create new ideas. 
  • There is a lot of flexibility and openness in different disciplines of design. 


Quote of the Show:

 

15:55 “There’s a romance in that, I think ties back to this idea of hospitality and making people feel comfortable in a space that they're not typically because they're not familiar with it.”

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Marriott Headquarters Hotel

0:52 Arne Sorenson

8:44 Pratt Institute

10:09 Barack Obama

23:00 Yabu Pushelberg

23:10 Lizette Viloria

23:15 Rockwell

23:26 George and Glenn

24:26 David Davis

24:27 Lauren Rottet

30:59 Platinum Circle Awards

31:03 Larry Traxler

31:13 Jordan Mozer

38:44 Belmond

39:12 LVMH

44:57 “Drawing From the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Beautiful Industry - Shari Bayer - Episode # 048 48 48 The Beautiful Industry - Shari Bayer - Episode # 048 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ae91369a-f081-377d-bb28-a10fe61d0108 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ceee2e21 Shari Bayer is the Founder and President at Bayer Public Relations. She’s been working in the restaurant industry since she was 16, so she knows the industry inside and out. Her passion for this beautiful industry is evident, especially through her podcast “All In the Industry”. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality has the most transferable “soft skills” that anyone can have. Hospitality isn’t just limited to hotels and restaurants, it is everywhere.
  • Every restaurant is different with what is unique and what their story is. It can be hard to talk about yourself but it’s important to be vulnerable and show the world who you are. 
  • Hospitality is all about making the guest feel welcomed and important. You want the guest to leave feeling happy and return often.
  • Design plays a huge role in the feeling of a restaurant or a hotel. It’s part of the complete package that is hospitality.
  • The pandemic has changed how restaurants work, with the guidelines shifting from outdoor to indoor dining back and forth.
  • You can’t teach someone to be a nice person, but you can teach them nice skills. When hiring someone, you want them to have the right personality. Hire for culture and not skills. 
  • Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone pieces at a time.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:44 “When people understand hospitality or get it right, they make you feel so special and so welcome, and so important and that they're genuinely happy to see you. They want you to feel good.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:39 Sullivan Street Bakery

4:30 Jim Lahey 

5:37 Mark Bittman

5:40 New York Times

13:33 Glen Coben

13:46 Architect's Cookbook by Glen Coben

18:30 Barbara Sibley

18:31 La Palapa

21:36 Independent Restaurant Coalition 

22:25 Prune

22:26 Gabrielle Hamilton

25:22 Danielle Boulud

31:41 Gramercy Tavern

32:34 Le Bernardin

34:36 Danny Meyer

41:37 Line Hotel

42:38 Spoken English restaurant in DC

49:32 Heritage Radio Network

49:34 Roberta’s Restaurant

51:59 Charlie Trotter

57:40 HOST Conference 

52:58 William Vale in Brooklyn

1;01:12 Jimmy Yui

1;07:03 Rock Bottom Brewery


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Shari Bayer is the Founder and President at Bayer Public Relations. She’s been working in the restaurant industry since she was 16, so she knows the industry inside and out. Her passion for this beautiful industry is evident, especially through her podcast “All In the Industry”. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality has the most transferable “soft skills” that anyone can have. Hospitality isn’t just limited to hotels and restaurants, it is everywhere.
  • Every restaurant is different with what is unique and what their story is. It can be hard to talk about yourself but it’s important to be vulnerable and show the world who you are. 
  • Hospitality is all about making the guest feel welcomed and important. You want the guest to leave feeling happy and return often.
  • Design plays a huge role in the feeling of a restaurant or a hotel. It’s part of the complete package that is hospitality.
  • The pandemic has changed how restaurants work, with the guidelines shifting from outdoor to indoor dining back and forth.
  • You can’t teach someone to be a nice person, but you can teach them nice skills. When hiring someone, you want them to have the right personality. Hire for culture and not skills. 
  • Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone pieces at a time.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:44 “When people understand hospitality or get it right, they make you feel so special and so welcome, and so important and that they're genuinely happy to see you. They want you to feel good.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:39 Sullivan Street Bakery

4:30 Jim Lahey 

5:37 Mark Bittman

5:40 New York Times

13:33 Glen Coben

13:46 Architect's Cookbook by Glen Coben

18:30 Barbara Sibley

18:31 La Palapa

21:36 Independent Restaurant Coalition 

22:25 Prune

22:26 Gabrielle Hamilton

25:22 Danielle Boulud

31:41 Gramercy Tavern

32:34 Le Bernardin

34:36 Danny Meyer

41:37 Line Hotel

42:38 Spoken English restaurant in DC

49:32 Heritage Radio Network

49:34 Roberta’s Restaurant

51:59 Charlie Trotter

57:40 HOST Conference 

52:58 William Vale in Brooklyn

1;01:12 Jimmy Yui

1;07:03 Rock Bottom Brewery


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4247 Shari Bayer is the Founder and President at Bayer Public Relations. She’s been working in the restaurant industry since she was 16, so she knows the industry inside and out. Her passion for this beautiful industry is evident, especially through her podcast “All In the Industry”. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through #hospitality and what it all means to her.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality has the most transferable “soft skills” that anyone can have. Hospitality isn’t just limited to hotels and restaurants, it is everywhere.
  • Every restaurant is different with what is unique and what their story is. It can be hard to talk about yourself but it’s important to be vulnerable and show the world who you are. 
  • Hospitality is all about making the guest feel welcomed and important. You want the guest to leave feeling happy and return often.
  • Design plays a huge role in the feeling of a restaurant or a hotel. It’s part of the complete package that is hospitality.
  • The pandemic has changed how restaurants work, with the guidelines shifting from outdoor to indoor dining back and forth.
  • You can’t teach someone to be a nice person, but you can teach them nice skills. When hiring someone, you want them to have the right personality. Hire for culture and not skills. 
  • Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone pieces at a time.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:44 “When people understand hospitality or get it right, they make you feel so special and so welcome, and so important and that they're genuinely happy to see you. They want you to feel good.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

3:39 Sullivan Street Bakery

4:30 Jim Lahey 

5:37 Mark Bittman

5:40 New York Times

13:33 Glen Coben

13:46 Architect's Cookbook by Glen Coben

18:30 Barbara Sibley

18:31 La Palapa

21:36 Independent Restaurant Coalition 

22:25 Prune

22:26 Gabrielle Hamilton

25:22 Danielle Boulud

31:41 Gramercy Tavern

32:34 Le Bernardin

34:36 Danny Meyer

41:37 Line Hotel

42:38 Spoken English restaurant in DC

49:32 Heritage Radio Network

49:34 Roberta’s Restaurant

51:59 Charlie Trotter

57:40 HOST Conference 

52:58 William Vale in Brooklyn

1;01:12 Jimmy Yui

1;07:03 Rock Bottom Brewery


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality Across the Globe - Shaun de Vries - Episode # 047 47 47 Hospitality Across the Globe - Shaun de Vries - Episode # 047 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1cb9e588-60f4-3bc4-8878-735801062298 https://share.transistor.fm/s/08279656 Shaun de Vries is the Founder and Director at Open Pantry Consulting as well as the co-founder and host of the long running and very popular Principle of Hospitality podcast. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about what #hospitality is like in Australia and his journey working in this beautiful industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • North America has always been a figurehead of the best level of hospitality around the entire world.
  • Hospitality is a collection of moments. These are all very special moments to the people who are involved and people in the industry are honored to share these moments.
  • Depending on what your brand is, it might be more beneficial to start in a suburban area and then expand into cities to test if that is a viable market.
  • The hospitality industry was hit hard during the pandemic, especially in Australia. They recorded the world’s longest lockdown period.  
  • In hospitality you teach service, empathy and how to walk in someone else’s shoes to better understand where they are coming from. 
  • It’s a challenge to hire people right now so you want to make sure when you bring a new person on board, the first six weeks are positive and exciting. 
  • You want to learn and listen from those around you. People you surround yourself with have a great depth of knowledge you should take advantage of.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:05 “I think like anything in hospitality is a collection of moments. We're fortunate in the hospitality industry, the fact that we get to share some of the most important moments in people's lives. And that might be a surprise engagement, there might be a birthday, there might be some other form of celebration. It might be a first date, it might be a wedding, all these different things that people trust us with is really, really important when you think about it as a hospitality professional.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

12:03 Grilled, Australia

14:08 Facebook

21:35 Four Fingers Crispy Chicken

23:50 Kath and Kim

34:28 LA Crows

52:03 Stumptown

52:18 Grumpy’s

53:05 Nick Stone

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Shaun de Vries is the Founder and Director at Open Pantry Consulting as well as the co-founder and host of the long running and very popular Principle of Hospitality podcast. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about what #hospitality is like in Australia and his journey working in this beautiful industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • North America has always been a figurehead of the best level of hospitality around the entire world.
  • Hospitality is a collection of moments. These are all very special moments to the people who are involved and people in the industry are honored to share these moments.
  • Depending on what your brand is, it might be more beneficial to start in a suburban area and then expand into cities to test if that is a viable market.
  • The hospitality industry was hit hard during the pandemic, especially in Australia. They recorded the world’s longest lockdown period.  
  • In hospitality you teach service, empathy and how to walk in someone else’s shoes to better understand where they are coming from. 
  • It’s a challenge to hire people right now so you want to make sure when you bring a new person on board, the first six weeks are positive and exciting. 
  • You want to learn and listen from those around you. People you surround yourself with have a great depth of knowledge you should take advantage of.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:05 “I think like anything in hospitality is a collection of moments. We're fortunate in the hospitality industry, the fact that we get to share some of the most important moments in people's lives. And that might be a surprise engagement, there might be a birthday, there might be some other form of celebration. It might be a first date, it might be a wedding, all these different things that people trust us with is really, really important when you think about it as a hospitality professional.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

12:03 Grilled, Australia

14:08 Facebook

21:35 Four Fingers Crispy Chicken

23:50 Kath and Kim

34:28 LA Crows

52:03 Stumptown

52:18 Grumpy’s

53:05 Nick Stone

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 30 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3432 Shaun de Vries is the Founder and Director at Open Pantry Consulting as well as the co-founder and host of the long running and very popular Principle of Hospitality podcast. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about what #hospitality is like in Australia and his journey working in this beautiful industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • North America has always been a figurehead of the best level of hospitality around the entire world.
  • Hospitality is a collection of moments. These are all very special moments to the people who are involved and people in the industry are honored to share these moments.
  • Depending on what your brand is, it might be more beneficial to start in a suburban area and then expand into cities to test if that is a viable market.
  • The hospitality industry was hit hard during the pandemic, especially in Australia. They recorded the world’s longest lockdown period.  
  • In hospitality you teach service, empathy and how to walk in someone else’s shoes to better understand where they are coming from. 
  • It’s a challenge to hire people right now so you want to make sure when you bring a new person on board, the first six weeks are positive and exciting. 
  • You want to learn and listen from those around you. People you surround yourself with have a great depth of knowledge you should take advantage of.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:05 “I think like anything in hospitality is a collection of moments. We're fortunate in the hospitality industry, the fact that we get to share some of the most important moments in people's lives. And that might be a surprise engagement, there might be a birthday, there might be some other form of celebration. It might be a first date, it might be a wedding, all these different things that people trust us with is really, really important when you think about it as a hospitality professional.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

12:03 Grilled, Australia

14:08 Facebook

21:35 Four Fingers Crispy Chicken

23:50 Kath and Kim

34:28 LA Crows

52:03 Stumptown

52:18 Grumpy’s

53:05 Nick Stone

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Inspiring the Next Generation - AiLun Ku - Episode # 046 46 46 Inspiring the Next Generation - AiLun Ku - Episode # 046 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/99f12f61-dae3-3cc7-b7c1-a225c6e6460c https://share.transistor.fm/s/828f1315 AiLun Ku is the President and CEO of the Opportunity Network. She sees the talent in the next generation and is committed to making sure they are given the same chances as others. AiLun sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her view on #hospitality and how to give everyone the sense of being welcomed.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Inspiring the youth can have such a great lasting impact. They are the ones who can change the world for the better. 
  • It’s ok to admit that you don’t know everything and open up about the mistakes that have been made because that creates room for growth.
  • You want to claim your identity and be proud of who you are. You can use that to guide your journey in life. 
  • Hospitality is a state of exchanging culture. It feels warm and inviting, like it was meant to be that way all along.  
  • The way we think about social justice in mass experience injustice. You can train people so that injustices aren’t a part of your company.
  • We are not truly in a space where opinions or voices from people of color are being taken with as much weight as they should be, but that doesn’t mean it can’t change for the better with the younger generation.
  • It’s important to open the mind of the next generation to hospitality opportunities and what is going on in the world. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:49 “We don't know everything. And when we don't know it, we'll try to figure it out together. And so for so long, our students, our alumni, they say, tell us, bring in more speakers that are willing to talk about failures and the mistakes. We gesture to the idea of mistakes and failures. And so when we normalize it right in conversation, then it becomes normalized for our young people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:27 Catskill Mountains

15:39 Carl Jackman

27:48 MIT Media Lab

27:52 Local Voices Network

29:10 Worth Doing Wrong by Arnie Malham

31:08 Cortico AI

33:01 Star Trek

37:41 OppNet Gala

39:22 Brian Weinstein

39:29 Independent Lodging Congress

41:10 Damon Lawrence

49:31 NYU’s Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> AiLun Ku is the President and CEO of the Opportunity Network. She sees the talent in the next generation and is committed to making sure they are given the same chances as others. AiLun sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her view on #hospitality and how to give everyone the sense of being welcomed.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Inspiring the youth can have such a great lasting impact. They are the ones who can change the world for the better. 
  • It’s ok to admit that you don’t know everything and open up about the mistakes that have been made because that creates room for growth.
  • You want to claim your identity and be proud of who you are. You can use that to guide your journey in life. 
  • Hospitality is a state of exchanging culture. It feels warm and inviting, like it was meant to be that way all along.  
  • The way we think about social justice in mass experience injustice. You can train people so that injustices aren’t a part of your company.
  • We are not truly in a space where opinions or voices from people of color are being taken with as much weight as they should be, but that doesn’t mean it can’t change for the better with the younger generation.
  • It’s important to open the mind of the next generation to hospitality opportunities and what is going on in the world. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:49 “We don't know everything. And when we don't know it, we'll try to figure it out together. And so for so long, our students, our alumni, they say, tell us, bring in more speakers that are willing to talk about failures and the mistakes. We gesture to the idea of mistakes and failures. And so when we normalize it right in conversation, then it becomes normalized for our young people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:27 Catskill Mountains

15:39 Carl Jackman

27:48 MIT Media Lab

27:52 Local Voices Network

29:10 Worth Doing Wrong by Arnie Malham

31:08 Cortico AI

33:01 Star Trek

37:41 OppNet Gala

39:22 Brian Weinstein

39:29 Independent Lodging Congress

41:10 Damon Lawrence

49:31 NYU’s Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3403 AiLun Ku is the President and CEO of the Opportunity Network. She sees the talent in the next generation and is committed to making sure they are given the same chances as others. AiLun sits down with host Dan Ryan to talk about her view on #hospitality and how to give everyone the sense of being welcomed.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Inspiring the youth can have such a great lasting impact. They are the ones who can change the world for the better. 
  • It’s ok to admit that you don’t know everything and open up about the mistakes that have been made because that creates room for growth.
  • You want to claim your identity and be proud of who you are. You can use that to guide your journey in life. 
  • Hospitality is a state of exchanging culture. It feels warm and inviting, like it was meant to be that way all along.  
  • The way we think about social justice in mass experience injustice. You can train people so that injustices aren’t a part of your company.
  • We are not truly in a space where opinions or voices from people of color are being taken with as much weight as they should be, but that doesn’t mean it can’t change for the better with the younger generation.
  • It’s important to open the mind of the next generation to hospitality opportunities and what is going on in the world. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:49 “We don't know everything. And when we don't know it, we'll try to figure it out together. And so for so long, our students, our alumni, they say, tell us, bring in more speakers that are willing to talk about failures and the mistakes. We gesture to the idea of mistakes and failures. And so when we normalize it right in conversation, then it becomes normalized for our young people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

8:27 Catskill Mountains

15:39 Carl Jackman

27:48 MIT Media Lab

27:52 Local Voices Network

29:10 Worth Doing Wrong by Arnie Malham

31:08 Cortico AI

33:01 Star Trek

37:41 OppNet Gala

39:22 Brian Weinstein

39:29 Independent Lodging Congress

41:10 Damon Lawrence

49:31 NYU’s Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Building a Connection - David Tracz - Episode # 045 45 45 Building a Connection - David Tracz - Episode # 045 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/41f6ad7e-5016-324f-921e-cb251c5ebc05 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e57157e5 David Tracz is the Partner and Founder at 3877. He knows the importance of building a good relationship with your clients and making sure you are working with them on a project. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to make your clients feel welcomed and comfortable in the environment that you build for them.
  • When working with clients, don’t treat it like it’s a job but treat it like you are working together with them. You want to build a relationship and connection with them.
  • Building trust with your clients is important. You want to prove you can get the work done in a timely manner but also have respect for them.
  • You learn something new everyday. It’s ok to not have the right answer and try something new and see if that works, that is how you grow.
  • Working with residential clients allows you to better understand your clients than you would if you work in an office or with commercial clients. 
  • There are many different types of hospitality and while they may differ, they all learn from each other and take inspiration from each other.
  • Technology allows for a greater development in hospitality allowing the experience to be more tailored to each guest's liking.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:06 “I think we really focus on just building that relationship, talking to them. It's not about the job. It's about us working together. I just hope that it's going to come eventually because we're good at what we do. And we like to execute on beautiful projects. And, I think that mentality is just a better way to look at things.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:41 Aliya Khan

0:42 Marriott

2:19 Pepe Moncayo

2:59 Boqueria Restaurant in DC

3:03 Jaan

8:29 Business of Architecture Podcast

11:26 Knead

14:22 Succotash in DC

26:19 OPX

33:05 Bashar Wali

35:24 Independent Lodging Congress

41:31 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

44:24 James Bond

46:03 Nvidia 

46:07 BMW 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> David Tracz is the Partner and Founder at 3877. He knows the importance of building a good relationship with your clients and making sure you are working with them on a project. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to make your clients feel welcomed and comfortable in the environment that you build for them.
  • When working with clients, don’t treat it like it’s a job but treat it like you are working together with them. You want to build a relationship and connection with them.
  • Building trust with your clients is important. You want to prove you can get the work done in a timely manner but also have respect for them.
  • You learn something new everyday. It’s ok to not have the right answer and try something new and see if that works, that is how you grow.
  • Working with residential clients allows you to better understand your clients than you would if you work in an office or with commercial clients. 
  • There are many different types of hospitality and while they may differ, they all learn from each other and take inspiration from each other.
  • Technology allows for a greater development in hospitality allowing the experience to be more tailored to each guest's liking.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:06 “I think we really focus on just building that relationship, talking to them. It's not about the job. It's about us working together. I just hope that it's going to come eventually because we're good at what we do. And we like to execute on beautiful projects. And, I think that mentality is just a better way to look at things.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:41 Aliya Khan

0:42 Marriott

2:19 Pepe Moncayo

2:59 Boqueria Restaurant in DC

3:03 Jaan

8:29 Business of Architecture Podcast

11:26 Knead

14:22 Succotash in DC

26:19 OPX

33:05 Bashar Wali

35:24 Independent Lodging Congress

41:31 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

44:24 James Bond

46:03 Nvidia 

46:07 BMW 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3607 David Tracz is the Partner and Founder at 3877. He knows the importance of building a good relationship with your clients and making sure you are working with them on a project. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You want to make your clients feel welcomed and comfortable in the environment that you build for them.
  • When working with clients, don’t treat it like it’s a job but treat it like you are working together with them. You want to build a relationship and connection with them.
  • Building trust with your clients is important. You want to prove you can get the work done in a timely manner but also have respect for them.
  • You learn something new everyday. It’s ok to not have the right answer and try something new and see if that works, that is how you grow.
  • Working with residential clients allows you to better understand your clients than you would if you work in an office or with commercial clients. 
  • There are many different types of hospitality and while they may differ, they all learn from each other and take inspiration from each other.
  • Technology allows for a greater development in hospitality allowing the experience to be more tailored to each guest's liking.


Quote of the Show:

 

12:06 “I think we really focus on just building that relationship, talking to them. It's not about the job. It's about us working together. I just hope that it's going to come eventually because we're good at what we do. And we like to execute on beautiful projects. And, I think that mentality is just a better way to look at things.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:41 Aliya Khan

0:42 Marriott

2:19 Pepe Moncayo

2:59 Boqueria Restaurant in DC

3:03 Jaan

8:29 Business of Architecture Podcast

11:26 Knead

14:22 Succotash in DC

26:19 OPX

33:05 Bashar Wali

35:24 Independent Lodging Congress

41:31 Setting the Table by Danny Meyer

44:24 James Bond

46:03 Nvidia 

46:07 BMW 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan It Takes A Village - Christina Flannery - Episode # 044 44 44 It Takes A Village - Christina Flannery - Episode # 044 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/b3fa4ffd-807c-371a-8437-72b7a6a6e2b3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/37f17dc4 Christina Flannery is the Director of Design at Park Hotels and Resorts. She uses her keen eye for renovation to help the design of hotels and provide a sense of community and belonging to them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is all about being social and feeling that sense of community and belonging when you are at home or away. 
  • There is a higher level of engagement in multifamily living spaces, which contributes to the sense of community.
  • Springtime is a time of rebirth, and it will be a great time for travel and for the hospitality industry to bounce back.
  • Your front staff is incredibly important. They are the ones who are talking with guests daily and know what it takes to make guests feel welcomed and at home.
  • It’s the little gestures of hospitality that really keep people going and keep them coming back. 
  • Technology advances for hospitality can help to make guests feel more at home. It can allow them to set whatever temperature they want or any lighting setting they want.
  • The design of a place can change the entire mood of a person walking into it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:21 “Springtime is around the corner and it's always a nice rebirth. You're kind of shedding that cold winter and into something new and fresh. And I feel the light at the end of the tunnel here with where we're headed. It’s exciting for hospitality because I think everybody's going to want to be traveling and they're getting out there, seeing what's out there and plan their next vacation or their next business trip. It's gonna really focus around the amenities and what the property has to offer.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:23 The Hilton in Ocean City, MD

3:41 Marriott

10:04 ALoft Marriott

16:27 Digital Key

29:30 Signia by Hilton

29:33 Waldorf Astoria

31:04 Hilton Hawaiian Village

46:49 Doubletree Hotel

47:38 Dave Kaplan

47:39 Death and Company

48:10 Equinox

48:11 Merivale

48:22 Tiger King


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Christina Flannery is the Director of Design at Park Hotels and Resorts. She uses her keen eye for renovation to help the design of hotels and provide a sense of community and belonging to them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is all about being social and feeling that sense of community and belonging when you are at home or away. 
  • There is a higher level of engagement in multifamily living spaces, which contributes to the sense of community.
  • Springtime is a time of rebirth, and it will be a great time for travel and for the hospitality industry to bounce back.
  • Your front staff is incredibly important. They are the ones who are talking with guests daily and know what it takes to make guests feel welcomed and at home.
  • It’s the little gestures of hospitality that really keep people going and keep them coming back. 
  • Technology advances for hospitality can help to make guests feel more at home. It can allow them to set whatever temperature they want or any lighting setting they want.
  • The design of a place can change the entire mood of a person walking into it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:21 “Springtime is around the corner and it's always a nice rebirth. You're kind of shedding that cold winter and into something new and fresh. And I feel the light at the end of the tunnel here with where we're headed. It’s exciting for hospitality because I think everybody's going to want to be traveling and they're getting out there, seeing what's out there and plan their next vacation or their next business trip. It's gonna really focus around the amenities and what the property has to offer.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:23 The Hilton in Ocean City, MD

3:41 Marriott

10:04 ALoft Marriott

16:27 Digital Key

29:30 Signia by Hilton

29:33 Waldorf Astoria

31:04 Hilton Hawaiian Village

46:49 Doubletree Hotel

47:38 Dave Kaplan

47:39 Death and Company

48:10 Equinox

48:11 Merivale

48:22 Tiger King


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3124 Christina Flannery is the Director of Design at Park Hotels and Resorts. She uses her keen eye for renovation to help the design of hotels and provide a sense of community and belonging to them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is all about being social and feeling that sense of community and belonging when you are at home or away. 
  • There is a higher level of engagement in multifamily living spaces, which contributes to the sense of community.
  • Springtime is a time of rebirth, and it will be a great time for travel and for the hospitality industry to bounce back.
  • Your front staff is incredibly important. They are the ones who are talking with guests daily and know what it takes to make guests feel welcomed and at home.
  • It’s the little gestures of hospitality that really keep people going and keep them coming back. 
  • Technology advances for hospitality can help to make guests feel more at home. It can allow them to set whatever temperature they want or any lighting setting they want.
  • The design of a place can change the entire mood of a person walking into it. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:21 “Springtime is around the corner and it's always a nice rebirth. You're kind of shedding that cold winter and into something new and fresh. And I feel the light at the end of the tunnel here with where we're headed. It’s exciting for hospitality because I think everybody's going to want to be traveling and they're getting out there, seeing what's out there and plan their next vacation or their next business trip. It's gonna really focus around the amenities and what the property has to offer.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:23 The Hilton in Ocean City, MD

3:41 Marriott

10:04 ALoft Marriott

16:27 Digital Key

29:30 Signia by Hilton

29:33 Waldorf Astoria

31:04 Hilton Hawaiian Village

46:49 Doubletree Hotel

47:38 Dave Kaplan

47:39 Death and Company

48:10 Equinox

48:11 Merivale

48:22 Tiger King


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Huge Tiny Business - Karin Harrington - Episode # 043 43 43 A Huge Tiny Business - Karin Harrington - Episode # 043 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1cf53648-b6f6-371a-8456-c94263902cb1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e7fb217b Karin Harrington is the Principal at Studio Partnership. With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, she has a keen eye for quality design. She has won many awards from many of the major hospitality brands. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • The hospitality industry is full of people who love what they do. They don’t view it as a job but rather something that they are lucky enough to do.
  • Going on a vacation is aspirational. You want to go somewhere where you feel relaxed and comfortable in the environment.
  • A sense of community can bring a positive impact to a business. You want to make employees feel welcomed where they are. 
  • You need to be empathetic with others. Everyone who plays a role in hospitality is important and if you don’t have that, then your space will never see success.
  • The first step in the design process is programming. It’s your responsibility to make sure that you communicate effectively with the clients to make sure everyone is on the same page.
  • Hospitals and doctors offices are spots where hospitality hasn’t really taken hold yet. There are a lot of factors at play as to why this hasn’t happened yet.
  • COVID has changed it so that people have really slowed down and focused on what is most important to them. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:34 “Hospitality is so different. It is really a lifestyle. People ask like how you asked me to explain it and it goes all the way to the root of my being. It is the way I was brought up as well as it is part of my personality type.  It is both of those things.”

  


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

Aaron Anderson

6:41 Rebecca Jones

14:30 ACE Hotel

15:50 Capital One

15:54 TD Bank

18:50 Verdans

19:38 Chevy Chase Club

33:01 Mercy Hospital in Baltimore

39:25 Amy Jacobowsky

41:07 Christina Hart

46:41 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Karin Harrington is the Principal at Studio Partnership. With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, she has a keen eye for quality design. She has won many awards from many of the major hospitality brands. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • The hospitality industry is full of people who love what they do. They don’t view it as a job but rather something that they are lucky enough to do.
  • Going on a vacation is aspirational. You want to go somewhere where you feel relaxed and comfortable in the environment.
  • A sense of community can bring a positive impact to a business. You want to make employees feel welcomed where they are. 
  • You need to be empathetic with others. Everyone who plays a role in hospitality is important and if you don’t have that, then your space will never see success.
  • The first step in the design process is programming. It’s your responsibility to make sure that you communicate effectively with the clients to make sure everyone is on the same page.
  • Hospitals and doctors offices are spots where hospitality hasn’t really taken hold yet. There are a lot of factors at play as to why this hasn’t happened yet.
  • COVID has changed it so that people have really slowed down and focused on what is most important to them. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:34 “Hospitality is so different. It is really a lifestyle. People ask like how you asked me to explain it and it goes all the way to the root of my being. It is the way I was brought up as well as it is part of my personality type.  It is both of those things.”

  


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

Aaron Anderson

6:41 Rebecca Jones

14:30 ACE Hotel

15:50 Capital One

15:54 TD Bank

18:50 Verdans

19:38 Chevy Chase Club

33:01 Mercy Hospital in Baltimore

39:25 Amy Jacobowsky

41:07 Christina Hart

46:41 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3163 Karin Harrington is the Principal at Studio Partnership. With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, she has a keen eye for quality design. She has won many awards from many of the major hospitality brands. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about her journey through the world of #hospitality and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • The hospitality industry is full of people who love what they do. They don’t view it as a job but rather something that they are lucky enough to do.
  • Going on a vacation is aspirational. You want to go somewhere where you feel relaxed and comfortable in the environment.
  • A sense of community can bring a positive impact to a business. You want to make employees feel welcomed where they are. 
  • You need to be empathetic with others. Everyone who plays a role in hospitality is important and if you don’t have that, then your space will never see success.
  • The first step in the design process is programming. It’s your responsibility to make sure that you communicate effectively with the clients to make sure everyone is on the same page.
  • Hospitals and doctors offices are spots where hospitality hasn’t really taken hold yet. There are a lot of factors at play as to why this hasn’t happened yet.
  • COVID has changed it so that people have really slowed down and focused on what is most important to them. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:34 “Hospitality is so different. It is really a lifestyle. People ask like how you asked me to explain it and it goes all the way to the root of my being. It is the way I was brought up as well as it is part of my personality type.  It is both of those things.”

  


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

Aaron Anderson

6:41 Rebecca Jones

14:30 ACE Hotel

15:50 Capital One

15:54 TD Bank

18:50 Verdans

19:38 Chevy Chase Club

33:01 Mercy Hospital in Baltimore

39:25 Amy Jacobowsky

41:07 Christina Hart

46:41 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Clear Space - David Allen - Episode # 042 42 42 A Clear Space - David Allen - Episode # 042 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/e58305e8-fafb-3511-a2f8-1e7200611105 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8ebce1c0 David Allen is the Founder at the David Allen Company. He’s also the author of many books, including “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress Free Productivity”. Having your mind open and a clear space can help to keep you functioning at a high level and be better at what you do. David sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Having a clear space in your mind allows you to deal with surprise and change in a better way. 
  • Hospitality is all about making others feel a welcome experience. You want those around you to feel at home. 
  • You need to have authentic conversations with those around you. If you are at a hotel and you don’t like your room, it’s ok to say so. 
  • Managing your staff in the right way is a key to success. You want to set a good standard for them to follow and make sure they keep up with it. 
  • A checklist is an incredibly important part of everyday life. Making a checklist can help to make sure that everything that needs to get done is actually done.
  • Communication is key. You want to make sure those around you feel appreciated and know that you are engaged in the conversation.
  • When working on a project, you want to think of two key components. You want to think of the outcome desired and the actual step required to reach that. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:08 “When I think about when I have felt hospitable or being hospitable towards people with me, it was heartfelt. It was authentic and it was service oriented. It's a real communication from a caring place. It says, how can I help? How can I serve? So I think hospitality is not just for the industry. I think it's for the human being as an experience.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:59 Danny Passman

10:21 Raul Leal

10:24 S.H. Hotels

12:07 Four Seasons San Francisco

13:24 Nanci Sherman

13:42 Hilton Hotel Miami

16:09 The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande

17:30 Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park, CA

17:35 Jerry Garcia 

17:38 The Warlocks

17:39 Grateful Dead

21:05 Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

21:17 E-Myth Revisited by Michael E Gerber

32:48 Suzuki

32:49 Alan Watts

34:32 Franklin Covey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> David Allen is the Founder at the David Allen Company. He’s also the author of many books, including “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress Free Productivity”. Having your mind open and a clear space can help to keep you functioning at a high level and be better at what you do. David sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Having a clear space in your mind allows you to deal with surprise and change in a better way. 
  • Hospitality is all about making others feel a welcome experience. You want those around you to feel at home. 
  • You need to have authentic conversations with those around you. If you are at a hotel and you don’t like your room, it’s ok to say so. 
  • Managing your staff in the right way is a key to success. You want to set a good standard for them to follow and make sure they keep up with it. 
  • A checklist is an incredibly important part of everyday life. Making a checklist can help to make sure that everything that needs to get done is actually done.
  • Communication is key. You want to make sure those around you feel appreciated and know that you are engaged in the conversation.
  • When working on a project, you want to think of two key components. You want to think of the outcome desired and the actual step required to reach that. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:08 “When I think about when I have felt hospitable or being hospitable towards people with me, it was heartfelt. It was authentic and it was service oriented. It's a real communication from a caring place. It says, how can I help? How can I serve? So I think hospitality is not just for the industry. I think it's for the human being as an experience.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:59 Danny Passman

10:21 Raul Leal

10:24 S.H. Hotels

12:07 Four Seasons San Francisco

13:24 Nanci Sherman

13:42 Hilton Hotel Miami

16:09 The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande

17:30 Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park, CA

17:35 Jerry Garcia 

17:38 The Warlocks

17:39 Grateful Dead

21:05 Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

21:17 E-Myth Revisited by Michael E Gerber

32:48 Suzuki

32:49 Alan Watts

34:32 Franklin Covey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 23 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3362 David Allen is the Founder at the David Allen Company. He’s also the author of many books, including “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress Free Productivity”. Having your mind open and a clear space can help to keep you functioning at a high level and be better at what you do. David sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his thoughts on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Having a clear space in your mind allows you to deal with surprise and change in a better way. 
  • Hospitality is all about making others feel a welcome experience. You want those around you to feel at home. 
  • You need to have authentic conversations with those around you. If you are at a hotel and you don’t like your room, it’s ok to say so. 
  • Managing your staff in the right way is a key to success. You want to set a good standard for them to follow and make sure they keep up with it. 
  • A checklist is an incredibly important part of everyday life. Making a checklist can help to make sure that everything that needs to get done is actually done.
  • Communication is key. You want to make sure those around you feel appreciated and know that you are engaged in the conversation.
  • When working on a project, you want to think of two key components. You want to think of the outcome desired and the actual step required to reach that. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:08 “When I think about when I have felt hospitable or being hospitable towards people with me, it was heartfelt. It was authentic and it was service oriented. It's a real communication from a caring place. It says, how can I help? How can I serve? So I think hospitality is not just for the industry. I think it's for the human being as an experience.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:59 Danny Passman

10:21 Raul Leal

10:24 S.H. Hotels

12:07 Four Seasons San Francisco

13:24 Nanci Sherman

13:42 Hilton Hotel Miami

16:09 The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande

17:30 Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park, CA

17:35 Jerry Garcia 

17:38 The Warlocks

17:39 Grateful Dead

21:05 Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

21:17 E-Myth Revisited by Michael E Gerber

32:48 Suzuki

32:49 Alan Watts

34:32 Franklin Covey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Wide Open Spaces - Carrie Tolman - Episode # 041 41 41 Wide Open Spaces - Carrie Tolman - Episode # 041 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/f3a214b4-6869-34a2-a517-4d5255f117b6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c5c63b2a Carrie Tolman is the Associate Principal at KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group. She has a keen eye for interior design and uses her roots in southern hospitality to help influence the style she uses today. She joins host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality by definition is temporary lodging. You want to make it feel like more than that though, you want to make it a home away from home.
  • Architecture is sculpture in motion.
  • Design can be part of a beautiful experience. It can help create a beautiful view and it is a work of art.
  • Southern hospitality is world renowned and it’s an expectation when you go there. It’s an art of how you entertain and host. 
  • Interior design and hospitality are both about the service level and how you can create an experience for your guests.
  • Reconnecting with those around you is important. It’s a nice idea to get away and really focus on those you love and share personal experiences.
  • Right now we are experiencing the great American migration. They are leaving urban environments and moving out to spaces that don’t cost as much.


Quote of the Show:

 

7:45 “If you look at hospitality, what it is by definition is a temporary lodging, a domicile away from your own home.  Whether it's an extended stay or, or not. And so those skills that I learned how to make people feel welcome and good within those spaces at a home applied, just in a much larger scale for hospitality.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:47 Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel

6:25 House Beautiful

6:27 Alessandra Bronca

8:19 Hirsch Bedner

8:21 Regent Beverly Wilshire

8:59 President Reagan

9:16 Warren Beatty

14:14 Whitney Museum

19:14 White Lodging

19:19 Brush Creek Ranch

38:49 Meyer Davis

41:44 The Naked Gun

45:44 Gibson’s

47:03 Nat King Cole Bar

49:00 Vincent Van Gogh


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Carrie Tolman is the Associate Principal at KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group. She has a keen eye for interior design and uses her roots in southern hospitality to help influence the style she uses today. She joins host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality by definition is temporary lodging. You want to make it feel like more than that though, you want to make it a home away from home.
  • Architecture is sculpture in motion.
  • Design can be part of a beautiful experience. It can help create a beautiful view and it is a work of art.
  • Southern hospitality is world renowned and it’s an expectation when you go there. It’s an art of how you entertain and host. 
  • Interior design and hospitality are both about the service level and how you can create an experience for your guests.
  • Reconnecting with those around you is important. It’s a nice idea to get away and really focus on those you love and share personal experiences.
  • Right now we are experiencing the great American migration. They are leaving urban environments and moving out to spaces that don’t cost as much.


Quote of the Show:

 

7:45 “If you look at hospitality, what it is by definition is a temporary lodging, a domicile away from your own home.  Whether it's an extended stay or, or not. And so those skills that I learned how to make people feel welcome and good within those spaces at a home applied, just in a much larger scale for hospitality.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:47 Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel

6:25 House Beautiful

6:27 Alessandra Bronca

8:19 Hirsch Bedner

8:21 Regent Beverly Wilshire

8:59 President Reagan

9:16 Warren Beatty

14:14 Whitney Museum

19:14 White Lodging

19:19 Brush Creek Ranch

38:49 Meyer Davis

41:44 The Naked Gun

45:44 Gibson’s

47:03 Nat King Cole Bar

49:00 Vincent Van Gogh


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 16 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3434 Carrie Tolman is the Associate Principal at KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group. She has a keen eye for interior design and uses her roots in southern hospitality to help influence the style she uses today. She joins host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey and how she got to where she is now.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality by definition is temporary lodging. You want to make it feel like more than that though, you want to make it a home away from home.
  • Architecture is sculpture in motion.
  • Design can be part of a beautiful experience. It can help create a beautiful view and it is a work of art.
  • Southern hospitality is world renowned and it’s an expectation when you go there. It’s an art of how you entertain and host. 
  • Interior design and hospitality are both about the service level and how you can create an experience for your guests.
  • Reconnecting with those around you is important. It’s a nice idea to get away and really focus on those you love and share personal experiences.
  • Right now we are experiencing the great American migration. They are leaving urban environments and moving out to spaces that don’t cost as much.


Quote of the Show:

 

7:45 “If you look at hospitality, what it is by definition is a temporary lodging, a domicile away from your own home.  Whether it's an extended stay or, or not. And so those skills that I learned how to make people feel welcome and good within those spaces at a home applied, just in a much larger scale for hospitality.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:47 Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel

6:25 House Beautiful

6:27 Alessandra Bronca

8:19 Hirsch Bedner

8:21 Regent Beverly Wilshire

8:59 President Reagan

9:16 Warren Beatty

14:14 Whitney Museum

19:14 White Lodging

19:19 Brush Creek Ranch

38:49 Meyer Davis

41:44 The Naked Gun

45:44 Gibson’s

47:03 Nat King Cole Bar

49:00 Vincent Van Gogh


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Being Authentic - Dyonne Fashina - Episode # 040 40 40 Being Authentic - Dyonne Fashina - Episode # 040 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/de72f1a7-b85c-3d22-b148-b7d43c739df9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/00a3bd82 Dyonne Fashina is the Principal at Denizens of Design Inc. She sees the beauty in designs and the passion it takes to create them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey from her memories about Canadian art culture to where she stands now. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You have to learn to pick yourself back up when you get knocked down. In life, it’s not about how you fall but how you get back up.
  • Hospitality spaces have always been about empathy but it needs to shine through now more than ever. 
  • There needs to be a certain identity to each design. If it doesn’t have something unique to separate it from other designs, then no one will notice the difference.
  • If you are designing something based on the latest trend, it will not last. But if you design something based on the environment and a good feeling, then it will last. 
  • Life experiences will help you understand what kind of space that you need to create. Research also helps because every space is different.
  • Always bring positive energy and the feeling of being invested into every project that you do. 
  • A sense of community is incredibly important. It will help you get through difficult times and give you a strong support system. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:45 “Empathy needs to come into the design and the business world and into the hospitality world more than it had in the past.”

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:30 Stacy Shoemaker

0:37 HD Awards

12:43 Clay Restaurant at the Garden Museum

12:56 KPMB Architects

25:49 The MicMichael Art Collection

31:13 HDAC

31:23 Aaron Anderson

32:55 Bashar Wali

32:56 Damon Lawrence

32:56 Nina Grondin

34:17 Lenny Kravitz

34:20 Venus Williams

36:00 Black Architects and Interior Designers Association of Canada

36:08 Camille Mitchell

36:09 Gensler


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Dyonne Fashina is the Principal at Denizens of Design Inc. She sees the beauty in designs and the passion it takes to create them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey from her memories about Canadian art culture to where she stands now. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You have to learn to pick yourself back up when you get knocked down. In life, it’s not about how you fall but how you get back up.
  • Hospitality spaces have always been about empathy but it needs to shine through now more than ever. 
  • There needs to be a certain identity to each design. If it doesn’t have something unique to separate it from other designs, then no one will notice the difference.
  • If you are designing something based on the latest trend, it will not last. But if you design something based on the environment and a good feeling, then it will last. 
  • Life experiences will help you understand what kind of space that you need to create. Research also helps because every space is different.
  • Always bring positive energy and the feeling of being invested into every project that you do. 
  • A sense of community is incredibly important. It will help you get through difficult times and give you a strong support system. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:45 “Empathy needs to come into the design and the business world and into the hospitality world more than it had in the past.”

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:30 Stacy Shoemaker

0:37 HD Awards

12:43 Clay Restaurant at the Garden Museum

12:56 KPMB Architects

25:49 The MicMichael Art Collection

31:13 HDAC

31:23 Aaron Anderson

32:55 Bashar Wali

32:56 Damon Lawrence

32:56 Nina Grondin

34:17 Lenny Kravitz

34:20 Venus Williams

36:00 Black Architects and Interior Designers Association of Canada

36:08 Camille Mitchell

36:09 Gensler


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 09 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2664 Dyonne Fashina is the Principal at Denizens of Design Inc. She sees the beauty in designs and the passion it takes to create them. She sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her #hospitality journey from her memories about Canadian art culture to where she stands now. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You have to learn to pick yourself back up when you get knocked down. In life, it’s not about how you fall but how you get back up.
  • Hospitality spaces have always been about empathy but it needs to shine through now more than ever. 
  • There needs to be a certain identity to each design. If it doesn’t have something unique to separate it from other designs, then no one will notice the difference.
  • If you are designing something based on the latest trend, it will not last. But if you design something based on the environment and a good feeling, then it will last. 
  • Life experiences will help you understand what kind of space that you need to create. Research also helps because every space is different.
  • Always bring positive energy and the feeling of being invested into every project that you do. 
  • A sense of community is incredibly important. It will help you get through difficult times and give you a strong support system. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:45 “Empathy needs to come into the design and the business world and into the hospitality world more than it had in the past.”

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:30 Stacy Shoemaker

0:37 HD Awards

12:43 Clay Restaurant at the Garden Museum

12:56 KPMB Architects

25:49 The MicMichael Art Collection

31:13 HDAC

31:23 Aaron Anderson

32:55 Bashar Wali

32:56 Damon Lawrence

32:56 Nina Grondin

34:17 Lenny Kravitz

34:20 Venus Williams

36:00 Black Architects and Interior Designers Association of Canada

36:08 Camille Mitchell

36:09 Gensler


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Open Door Policy - Christian Schnyder- Episode # 039 39 39 Open Door Policy - Christian Schnyder- Episode # 039 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ff5bb553-9d72-3e40-9cba-f4b0e11878cf https://share.transistor.fm/s/87e42613 Christian Schnyder is the owner at Beleco. He’s been inspired and informed by over 30 years of experience. He specializes in hospitality and residential interiors. He’s used his roots from Switzerland to influence his view on the world and #hospitality. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey into the world of hospitality.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • The culture in Switzerland is driven towards service. Because of the lack of other resources, they have shifted their focus to providing good services. 
  • It’s important to keep your end goals in mind. You want to have a way to know how you want to finish a project. 
  • Giving a strong environment for people to fill a space with is part of the process of making a space more livable. 
  • Hospitality is about having an open door policy. You can have people come over and talk about anything they want, and you want them to feel a sense of belonging. 
  • We are thinking less about the impact of our words on others. Technology has advanced which is nice but it also takes us away from our human connections. 
  • Staying in touch with those around us is important for keeping us motivated and keeping coworkers focused. 
  • You’re not designing for designers, you are designing for people. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:09 “As a designer you have a design done and it's approved and you go forward and then halfway through, they're basically saying, well, no, guess what? The design, it's not going to work. You need to go and keep what's there. And I think that's what I love about this is like, okay, now here is sort of that hurdle you have to jump over. How can you make something look effortless?” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:17 Hirsch Bedner

1:19 Kirk Nix

12:12 Kimpton Gray Hotel

19:05 IHG Hotels and Resorts

19:43 Jennifer Ramsey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Christian Schnyder is the owner at Beleco. He’s been inspired and informed by over 30 years of experience. He specializes in hospitality and residential interiors. He’s used his roots from Switzerland to influence his view on the world and #hospitality. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey into the world of hospitality.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • The culture in Switzerland is driven towards service. Because of the lack of other resources, they have shifted their focus to providing good services. 
  • It’s important to keep your end goals in mind. You want to have a way to know how you want to finish a project. 
  • Giving a strong environment for people to fill a space with is part of the process of making a space more livable. 
  • Hospitality is about having an open door policy. You can have people come over and talk about anything they want, and you want them to feel a sense of belonging. 
  • We are thinking less about the impact of our words on others. Technology has advanced which is nice but it also takes us away from our human connections. 
  • Staying in touch with those around us is important for keeping us motivated and keeping coworkers focused. 
  • You’re not designing for designers, you are designing for people. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:09 “As a designer you have a design done and it's approved and you go forward and then halfway through, they're basically saying, well, no, guess what? The design, it's not going to work. You need to go and keep what's there. And I think that's what I love about this is like, okay, now here is sort of that hurdle you have to jump over. How can you make something look effortless?” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:17 Hirsch Bedner

1:19 Kirk Nix

12:12 Kimpton Gray Hotel

19:05 IHG Hotels and Resorts

19:43 Jennifer Ramsey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 02 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3481 Christian Schnyder is the owner at Beleco. He’s been inspired and informed by over 30 years of experience. He specializes in hospitality and residential interiors. He’s used his roots from Switzerland to influence his view on the world and #hospitality. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his journey into the world of hospitality.  


Takeaways: 

 

  • The culture in Switzerland is driven towards service. Because of the lack of other resources, they have shifted their focus to providing good services. 
  • It’s important to keep your end goals in mind. You want to have a way to know how you want to finish a project. 
  • Giving a strong environment for people to fill a space with is part of the process of making a space more livable. 
  • Hospitality is about having an open door policy. You can have people come over and talk about anything they want, and you want them to feel a sense of belonging. 
  • We are thinking less about the impact of our words on others. Technology has advanced which is nice but it also takes us away from our human connections. 
  • Staying in touch with those around us is important for keeping us motivated and keeping coworkers focused. 
  • You’re not designing for designers, you are designing for people. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:09 “As a designer you have a design done and it's approved and you go forward and then halfway through, they're basically saying, well, no, guess what? The design, it's not going to work. You need to go and keep what's there. And I think that's what I love about this is like, okay, now here is sort of that hurdle you have to jump over. How can you make something look effortless?” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:17 Hirsch Bedner

1:19 Kirk Nix

12:12 Kimpton Gray Hotel

19:05 IHG Hotels and Resorts

19:43 Jennifer Ramsey


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Going to California - Avi Brosh - Episode # 038 38 38 Going to California - Avi Brosh - Episode # 038 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/d01d3ef2-4b5e-3a6a-a9be-e0f0037472e0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/56d1dadf Avi Brosh is the CEO and Founder of Palisociety. At his core, he is a modern day inn keeper. He’s been involved in real estate and hospitality for over 30 years. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his #hospitality journey all the way from a small school in New Jersey all the way to  Malibu, California. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s better to get up earlier and accomplish some goals earlier in the day. It’s a good way to work and sets you apart from others. 
  • Hotels should be able to tell a story about their place. It can make the stay at the hotel feel more like a home and you feel connected with it. 
  • You want to manufacture an environment that doesn’t actually feel manufactured. The environment should feel like it is inviting and it all feels natural. 
  • It’s not easy to create something that makes you feel a certain type of way. It can be a difficult process but it is rewarding in the end. 
  • Every kind of hospitality is different. Once you find your style of hospitality, it needs to be something that you can do repeatedly and consistently. 
  • You need to have an uncompromising vision. Once you have an idea in your head, go for it and make that dream a reality.
  • If you are going through a tough spot, you have to keep going. You need to keep believing in yourself and keep going.  


Quote of the Show:

 

36:31  “I'm very particular at our hotels and restaurants and what have you that It's a certain kind of hospitality, which is not the same hospitality you would get at a four seasons in Paris. It's different then the motel six off a highway in Cincinnati. You have to decide what it is that you want to deliver in terms of the style of hospitality you want to deliver.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:31 Saddle River Country Day School

3:35 Joe Auginello 

6:44 “Howard’s End” by E.M Forster

7:34 Boston University

12:17 Misha Bedner

12:39 Michael Bedner

24:42 Ian Schrager

24:43 Philippe Starck

25:22 Mondrian Los Angeles 

26:15 Royalton

28:30 Keith McNally

39:43 Aman Tokyo

47:59 Ritz-Carlton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Avi Brosh is the CEO and Founder of Palisociety. At his core, he is a modern day inn keeper. He’s been involved in real estate and hospitality for over 30 years. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his #hospitality journey all the way from a small school in New Jersey all the way to  Malibu, California. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s better to get up earlier and accomplish some goals earlier in the day. It’s a good way to work and sets you apart from others. 
  • Hotels should be able to tell a story about their place. It can make the stay at the hotel feel more like a home and you feel connected with it. 
  • You want to manufacture an environment that doesn’t actually feel manufactured. The environment should feel like it is inviting and it all feels natural. 
  • It’s not easy to create something that makes you feel a certain type of way. It can be a difficult process but it is rewarding in the end. 
  • Every kind of hospitality is different. Once you find your style of hospitality, it needs to be something that you can do repeatedly and consistently. 
  • You need to have an uncompromising vision. Once you have an idea in your head, go for it and make that dream a reality.
  • If you are going through a tough spot, you have to keep going. You need to keep believing in yourself and keep going.  


Quote of the Show:

 

36:31  “I'm very particular at our hotels and restaurants and what have you that It's a certain kind of hospitality, which is not the same hospitality you would get at a four seasons in Paris. It's different then the motel six off a highway in Cincinnati. You have to decide what it is that you want to deliver in terms of the style of hospitality you want to deliver.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:31 Saddle River Country Day School

3:35 Joe Auginello 

6:44 “Howard’s End” by E.M Forster

7:34 Boston University

12:17 Misha Bedner

12:39 Michael Bedner

24:42 Ian Schrager

24:43 Philippe Starck

25:22 Mondrian Los Angeles 

26:15 Royalton

28:30 Keith McNally

39:43 Aman Tokyo

47:59 Ritz-Carlton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 26 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4151 Avi Brosh is the CEO and Founder of Palisociety. At his core, he is a modern day inn keeper. He’s been involved in real estate and hospitality for over 30 years. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his #hospitality journey all the way from a small school in New Jersey all the way to  Malibu, California. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It’s better to get up earlier and accomplish some goals earlier in the day. It’s a good way to work and sets you apart from others. 
  • Hotels should be able to tell a story about their place. It can make the stay at the hotel feel more like a home and you feel connected with it. 
  • You want to manufacture an environment that doesn’t actually feel manufactured. The environment should feel like it is inviting and it all feels natural. 
  • It’s not easy to create something that makes you feel a certain type of way. It can be a difficult process but it is rewarding in the end. 
  • Every kind of hospitality is different. Once you find your style of hospitality, it needs to be something that you can do repeatedly and consistently. 
  • You need to have an uncompromising vision. Once you have an idea in your head, go for it and make that dream a reality.
  • If you are going through a tough spot, you have to keep going. You need to keep believing in yourself and keep going.  


Quote of the Show:

 

36:31  “I'm very particular at our hotels and restaurants and what have you that It's a certain kind of hospitality, which is not the same hospitality you would get at a four seasons in Paris. It's different then the motel six off a highway in Cincinnati. You have to decide what it is that you want to deliver in terms of the style of hospitality you want to deliver.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:31 Saddle River Country Day School

3:35 Joe Auginello 

6:44 “Howard’s End” by E.M Forster

7:34 Boston University

12:17 Misha Bedner

12:39 Michael Bedner

24:42 Ian Schrager

24:43 Philippe Starck

25:22 Mondrian Los Angeles 

26:15 Royalton

28:30 Keith McNally

39:43 Aman Tokyo

47:59 Ritz-Carlton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Sense of Family - Sara Duffy - Episode # 037 37 37 A Sense of Family - Sara Duffy - Episode # 037 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/9cc1c74e-4238-3515-8465-a5c12ba95f14 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0a8077c Sara Duffy is a Principal Partner at Stonehill & Taylor Architects. She recalls moments from her childhood at a restaurant where they treated everyone like family, and that has led her to her career in hospitality. She joins host Dan Ryan to share some of her #hospitality experiences and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is the true sense of being welcome. You want to feel a sense of belonging and feeling like you are part of a family. 
  • When designing a space, you don’t want to pigeon hole yourself into one design style. You need to think about the different kinds of people coming in and make it welcoming for all of them.
  • You want to work with people who might see something from a different perspective than you. They could have a point of view you never thought of. 
  • Finding creative solutions to problems is a good idea. COVID made it so people couldn’t be together so people used video calls to talk with each other. 
  • The routines we have are what can set us free. It’s good to be creative and step outside of your comfort zone every once in a while.
  • You want your employees to be happy and productive. Employees tend to be more engaged in their work when they are excited to come into work. 
  • Broaden your horizons. There are so many opportunities in life and work, it’s important to grab them and take advantage of them. You’ll never know where they lead. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:29 ​​”When I was a kid growing up on the upper west side of New York. There was this really terrific Italian restaurant that we went to on 79th street. Every Friday night and they knew us.

It was kind of like, cheers. Everybody knows your name. I loved it there and I think that was my first sort of foray into the true sense of being welcomed into a space and true hospitality. And they were so nice to me. I would get tired at the end of the night and they would let me sleep across two chairs or they'd let me sit at the bar and watch TV and talk to the bartender. It was just like I was supposed to be there.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:43 Paul Taylor 

8:55 Tony’s restaurant in New York

9:30 House of Gucci

12:19 Canby Hotel

12:25 Ritz-Carlton

13:02 Patrick Ewing

16:39 NBA

24:47 Revit

25:11 “Checklist Manifesto”

33:33 MTV 33:35 Beavis and Butthead

36:33 Carson Daly

36:39 Adam Perry

36:55 Kurt Loder

37:46 Remote Control

37:50 John Stewart

37:54 Mike Judge

38:44 Madonna

39:09 Kurt Cobain

39:11 Courtney Love


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Sara Duffy is a Principal Partner at Stonehill & Taylor Architects. She recalls moments from her childhood at a restaurant where they treated everyone like family, and that has led her to her career in hospitality. She joins host Dan Ryan to share some of her #hospitality experiences and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is the true sense of being welcome. You want to feel a sense of belonging and feeling like you are part of a family. 
  • When designing a space, you don’t want to pigeon hole yourself into one design style. You need to think about the different kinds of people coming in and make it welcoming for all of them.
  • You want to work with people who might see something from a different perspective than you. They could have a point of view you never thought of. 
  • Finding creative solutions to problems is a good idea. COVID made it so people couldn’t be together so people used video calls to talk with each other. 
  • The routines we have are what can set us free. It’s good to be creative and step outside of your comfort zone every once in a while.
  • You want your employees to be happy and productive. Employees tend to be more engaged in their work when they are excited to come into work. 
  • Broaden your horizons. There are so many opportunities in life and work, it’s important to grab them and take advantage of them. You’ll never know where they lead. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:29 ​​”When I was a kid growing up on the upper west side of New York. There was this really terrific Italian restaurant that we went to on 79th street. Every Friday night and they knew us.

It was kind of like, cheers. Everybody knows your name. I loved it there and I think that was my first sort of foray into the true sense of being welcomed into a space and true hospitality. And they were so nice to me. I would get tired at the end of the night and they would let me sleep across two chairs or they'd let me sit at the bar and watch TV and talk to the bartender. It was just like I was supposed to be there.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:43 Paul Taylor 

8:55 Tony’s restaurant in New York

9:30 House of Gucci

12:19 Canby Hotel

12:25 Ritz-Carlton

13:02 Patrick Ewing

16:39 NBA

24:47 Revit

25:11 “Checklist Manifesto”

33:33 MTV 33:35 Beavis and Butthead

36:33 Carson Daly

36:39 Adam Perry

36:55 Kurt Loder

37:46 Remote Control

37:50 John Stewart

37:54 Mike Judge

38:44 Madonna

39:09 Kurt Cobain

39:11 Courtney Love


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 19 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2484 Sara Duffy is a Principal Partner at Stonehill & Taylor Architects. She recalls moments from her childhood at a restaurant where they treated everyone like family, and that has led her to her career in hospitality. She joins host Dan Ryan to share some of her #hospitality experiences and what it all means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is the true sense of being welcome. You want to feel a sense of belonging and feeling like you are part of a family. 
  • When designing a space, you don’t want to pigeon hole yourself into one design style. You need to think about the different kinds of people coming in and make it welcoming for all of them.
  • You want to work with people who might see something from a different perspective than you. They could have a point of view you never thought of. 
  • Finding creative solutions to problems is a good idea. COVID made it so people couldn’t be together so people used video calls to talk with each other. 
  • The routines we have are what can set us free. It’s good to be creative and step outside of your comfort zone every once in a while.
  • You want your employees to be happy and productive. Employees tend to be more engaged in their work when they are excited to come into work. 
  • Broaden your horizons. There are so many opportunities in life and work, it’s important to grab them and take advantage of them. You’ll never know where they lead. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:29 ​​”When I was a kid growing up on the upper west side of New York. There was this really terrific Italian restaurant that we went to on 79th street. Every Friday night and they knew us.

It was kind of like, cheers. Everybody knows your name. I loved it there and I think that was my first sort of foray into the true sense of being welcomed into a space and true hospitality. And they were so nice to me. I would get tired at the end of the night and they would let me sleep across two chairs or they'd let me sit at the bar and watch TV and talk to the bartender. It was just like I was supposed to be there.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

5:43 Paul Taylor 

8:55 Tony’s restaurant in New York

9:30 House of Gucci

12:19 Canby Hotel

12:25 Ritz-Carlton

13:02 Patrick Ewing

16:39 NBA

24:47 Revit

25:11 “Checklist Manifesto”

33:33 MTV 33:35 Beavis and Butthead

36:33 Carson Daly

36:39 Adam Perry

36:55 Kurt Loder

37:46 Remote Control

37:50 John Stewart

37:54 Mike Judge

38:44 Madonna

39:09 Kurt Cobain

39:11 Courtney Love


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Spheres of Hospitality - David Kaplan - Episode # 036 36 36 Spheres of Hospitality - David Kaplan - Episode # 036 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/cb8a4168-c853-37cc-914f-668c7c6a93bc https://share.transistor.fm/s/a538540e David Kaplan is the Founder of Death & Company, the CEO at Gin and Luck, Co-author of several books including “Cocktail Codex”, the Co-Founder of Midnight Auteur. He likes to create human connections and memorable moments through cocktails and wonderful hospitality service. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his insight on #hospitality and how important it is to just be nice. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is defined by creating moments of human connections. It’s all about connecting people within communities or total strangers to each other.
  • Walt Disney didn’t like movies because there was a finite end and no way to improve it once it was out there. Be like Walt and always strive for improvement where you can. 
  • Fans, followers and guests are the reason why a business is successful. Crowdfunding is a great way to offer equity in your business to those people. 
  • Now is the time for independent boutique hotels, as these are spaces that are often overlooked. 
  • The best hospitality feels really authentic because it is. You want the guests to feel the warmth and compassion in the bar, hotel or restaurant.
  • An experience starts at the door. You want to create a memorable experience once a guest steps right through the door. 
  • It’s a tough time with a lot of hospitality services being short staffed but it’s important to have a great culture even through these difficult times.  
  • You want to make sure what you are doing is something that gives back to the community that it is located in. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:18 “Hospitality for me and for our company is defined by creating moments of human connectivity, moments and stages for that human connectivity.  For us it really starts with our teams, our staff, our investors, forming a community and connectivity within those folks within our worlds, and then extends out to our guests, fans, followers. Those are moments of hospitality. Those are our spheres of hospitality, and then cascading that connectivity out into the community.” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:42 BDNY

3:35 EOS

4:08 Ryan Diggins

4:11 Ramble Hotel

8:01 Walt Disney

13:01 SeedInvest

15:03 “The Great Game of Business” 

15:45 New York Times

15:47 Forbes

15:48 Wall Street Journal

19:44 Star Trek

23:01 “Little Giants”

30:05 Delta

49:27 “Things To Do In Denver When You Are Dead”

49:49 Andy Garcia

54:34 Jerry Orbach


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> David Kaplan is the Founder of Death & Company, the CEO at Gin and Luck, Co-author of several books including “Cocktail Codex”, the Co-Founder of Midnight Auteur. He likes to create human connections and memorable moments through cocktails and wonderful hospitality service. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his insight on #hospitality and how important it is to just be nice. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is defined by creating moments of human connections. It’s all about connecting people within communities or total strangers to each other.
  • Walt Disney didn’t like movies because there was a finite end and no way to improve it once it was out there. Be like Walt and always strive for improvement where you can. 
  • Fans, followers and guests are the reason why a business is successful. Crowdfunding is a great way to offer equity in your business to those people. 
  • Now is the time for independent boutique hotels, as these are spaces that are often overlooked. 
  • The best hospitality feels really authentic because it is. You want the guests to feel the warmth and compassion in the bar, hotel or restaurant.
  • An experience starts at the door. You want to create a memorable experience once a guest steps right through the door. 
  • It’s a tough time with a lot of hospitality services being short staffed but it’s important to have a great culture even through these difficult times.  
  • You want to make sure what you are doing is something that gives back to the community that it is located in. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:18 “Hospitality for me and for our company is defined by creating moments of human connectivity, moments and stages for that human connectivity.  For us it really starts with our teams, our staff, our investors, forming a community and connectivity within those folks within our worlds, and then extends out to our guests, fans, followers. Those are moments of hospitality. Those are our spheres of hospitality, and then cascading that connectivity out into the community.” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:42 BDNY

3:35 EOS

4:08 Ryan Diggins

4:11 Ramble Hotel

8:01 Walt Disney

13:01 SeedInvest

15:03 “The Great Game of Business” 

15:45 New York Times

15:47 Forbes

15:48 Wall Street Journal

19:44 Star Trek

23:01 “Little Giants”

30:05 Delta

49:27 “Things To Do In Denver When You Are Dead”

49:49 Andy Garcia

54:34 Jerry Orbach


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 12 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3634 David Kaplan is the Founder of Death & Company, the CEO at Gin and Luck, Co-author of several books including “Cocktail Codex”, the Co-Founder of Midnight Auteur. He likes to create human connections and memorable moments through cocktails and wonderful hospitality service. He sits down with host Dan Ryan to share his insight on #hospitality and how important it is to just be nice. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is defined by creating moments of human connections. It’s all about connecting people within communities or total strangers to each other.
  • Walt Disney didn’t like movies because there was a finite end and no way to improve it once it was out there. Be like Walt and always strive for improvement where you can. 
  • Fans, followers and guests are the reason why a business is successful. Crowdfunding is a great way to offer equity in your business to those people. 
  • Now is the time for independent boutique hotels, as these are spaces that are often overlooked. 
  • The best hospitality feels really authentic because it is. You want the guests to feel the warmth and compassion in the bar, hotel or restaurant.
  • An experience starts at the door. You want to create a memorable experience once a guest steps right through the door. 
  • It’s a tough time with a lot of hospitality services being short staffed but it’s important to have a great culture even through these difficult times.  
  • You want to make sure what you are doing is something that gives back to the community that it is located in. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:18 “Hospitality for me and for our company is defined by creating moments of human connectivity, moments and stages for that human connectivity.  For us it really starts with our teams, our staff, our investors, forming a community and connectivity within those folks within our worlds, and then extends out to our guests, fans, followers. Those are moments of hospitality. Those are our spheres of hospitality, and then cascading that connectivity out into the community.” 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:42 BDNY

3:35 EOS

4:08 Ryan Diggins

4:11 Ramble Hotel

8:01 Walt Disney

13:01 SeedInvest

15:03 “The Great Game of Business” 

15:45 New York Times

15:47 Forbes

15:48 Wall Street Journal

19:44 Star Trek

23:01 “Little Giants”

30:05 Delta

49:27 “Things To Do In Denver When You Are Dead”

49:49 Andy Garcia

54:34 Jerry Orbach


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Gathering Spot - Aliya Khan - Episode # 035 35 35 A Gathering Spot - Aliya Khan - Episode # 035 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/0c994209-e8f1-30ec-a6d7-a5368b228710 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ebe9995a Aliya Khan, VP of design lifestyle brands at Marriott, promotes a positive lifestyle for brands and global design strategy. In 2019, she was an honoree for women in design from Hospitality Design magazine. Aliya joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her view on #hospitality and how important it is to be more open to change and face it with a positive attitude. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is about bringing people together from all walks of life. Sometimes you know them, sometimes you don't. It’s about experiencing new things in life with others.
  • The environment, the experience and the memory all add up to play important roles in delivering hospitality.
  • Often it can be the small things that make an experience so much more meaningful. You want to make sure all your guests' needs are met, even the small ones. It shows thoughtfulness and caring
  • You can learn so much from watching people. You’ll learn what they like and dislike and can use that to make a hospitality experience more relatable and enjoyable.
  • When you embrace change, you always see everything as an opportunity. You need to find a positive outlook and build that culture in your work and life.
  • Surround yourself with people who have the same view on change as you do. That way when you are going through change, they can help you get through it if you struggle.
  • Everything in a restaurant is designed to work together to create a memorable experience.
  • You want to celebrate the core foundational pieces of a hotel or restaurant when taking it over. You can update some things but it’s worth keeping some core things the same.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:54 “One of my grandmothers on one side of my family [I'm one of eight grandchildren] didn't have a big enough dining table for eight children and the parents that came with them. So she had this rug and we would literally, I'm not kidding, sit around that rug. We would go serve ourselves lunch and sit on the floor. Cross-legged on that rug. And I think to myself, when I think about that, I think about how it brought a group of people together, it always brought us back together.

 

So I sort of see it like a metaphor for hospitality. It brings people together. It brings you together from all over. Sometimes you know the people, sometimes you don't. But it literally is this gathering spot.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

10:28 “American Utopia” by David Byrne

14:59 Aaron Ritcher

22:05 Marriott

22:09 Arne Sorenson

28:22 Moxie

28:26 Westin

30:39 Aloft Hotels

31:51 Equinox Hotels

33:15 Heavenly Bed

36:27 Mitchell Gold

36:36 Robert Polin

36:41 Christine McGinnis

41:16 Kristina O’Neil 

44:11 Beverly Hills Hotel

44:14 St. Regis Hotel

45:24 Westin St. Francis

45:26 The Clift

45:53 Michael Mina

46:04 Larry Traxler

47:54 The Royalton

48:14 W Hotels

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Aliya Khan, VP of design lifestyle brands at Marriott, promotes a positive lifestyle for brands and global design strategy. In 2019, she was an honoree for women in design from Hospitality Design magazine. Aliya joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her view on #hospitality and how important it is to be more open to change and face it with a positive attitude. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is about bringing people together from all walks of life. Sometimes you know them, sometimes you don't. It’s about experiencing new things in life with others.
  • The environment, the experience and the memory all add up to play important roles in delivering hospitality.
  • Often it can be the small things that make an experience so much more meaningful. You want to make sure all your guests' needs are met, even the small ones. It shows thoughtfulness and caring
  • You can learn so much from watching people. You’ll learn what they like and dislike and can use that to make a hospitality experience more relatable and enjoyable.
  • When you embrace change, you always see everything as an opportunity. You need to find a positive outlook and build that culture in your work and life.
  • Surround yourself with people who have the same view on change as you do. That way when you are going through change, they can help you get through it if you struggle.
  • Everything in a restaurant is designed to work together to create a memorable experience.
  • You want to celebrate the core foundational pieces of a hotel or restaurant when taking it over. You can update some things but it’s worth keeping some core things the same.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:54 “One of my grandmothers on one side of my family [I'm one of eight grandchildren] didn't have a big enough dining table for eight children and the parents that came with them. So she had this rug and we would literally, I'm not kidding, sit around that rug. We would go serve ourselves lunch and sit on the floor. Cross-legged on that rug. And I think to myself, when I think about that, I think about how it brought a group of people together, it always brought us back together.

 

So I sort of see it like a metaphor for hospitality. It brings people together. It brings you together from all over. Sometimes you know the people, sometimes you don't. But it literally is this gathering spot.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

10:28 “American Utopia” by David Byrne

14:59 Aaron Ritcher

22:05 Marriott

22:09 Arne Sorenson

28:22 Moxie

28:26 Westin

30:39 Aloft Hotels

31:51 Equinox Hotels

33:15 Heavenly Bed

36:27 Mitchell Gold

36:36 Robert Polin

36:41 Christine McGinnis

41:16 Kristina O’Neil 

44:11 Beverly Hills Hotel

44:14 St. Regis Hotel

45:24 Westin St. Francis

45:26 The Clift

45:53 Michael Mina

46:04 Larry Traxler

47:54 The Royalton

48:14 W Hotels

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 05 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3715 Aliya Khan, VP of design lifestyle brands at Marriott, promotes a positive lifestyle for brands and global design strategy. In 2019, she was an honoree for women in design from Hospitality Design magazine. Aliya joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her view on #hospitality and how important it is to be more open to change and face it with a positive attitude. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality is about bringing people together from all walks of life. Sometimes you know them, sometimes you don't. It’s about experiencing new things in life with others.
  • The environment, the experience and the memory all add up to play important roles in delivering hospitality.
  • Often it can be the small things that make an experience so much more meaningful. You want to make sure all your guests' needs are met, even the small ones. It shows thoughtfulness and caring
  • You can learn so much from watching people. You’ll learn what they like and dislike and can use that to make a hospitality experience more relatable and enjoyable.
  • When you embrace change, you always see everything as an opportunity. You need to find a positive outlook and build that culture in your work and life.
  • Surround yourself with people who have the same view on change as you do. That way when you are going through change, they can help you get through it if you struggle.
  • Everything in a restaurant is designed to work together to create a memorable experience.
  • You want to celebrate the core foundational pieces of a hotel or restaurant when taking it over. You can update some things but it’s worth keeping some core things the same.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:54 “One of my grandmothers on one side of my family [I'm one of eight grandchildren] didn't have a big enough dining table for eight children and the parents that came with them. So she had this rug and we would literally, I'm not kidding, sit around that rug. We would go serve ourselves lunch and sit on the floor. Cross-legged on that rug. And I think to myself, when I think about that, I think about how it brought a group of people together, it always brought us back together.

 

So I sort of see it like a metaphor for hospitality. It brings people together. It brings you together from all over. Sometimes you know the people, sometimes you don't. But it literally is this gathering spot.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

10:28 “American Utopia” by David Byrne

14:59 Aaron Ritcher

22:05 Marriott

22:09 Arne Sorenson

28:22 Moxie

28:26 Westin

30:39 Aloft Hotels

31:51 Equinox Hotels

33:15 Heavenly Bed

36:27 Mitchell Gold

36:36 Robert Polin

36:41 Christine McGinnis

41:16 Kristina O’Neil 

44:11 Beverly Hills Hotel

44:14 St. Regis Hotel

45:24 Westin St. Francis

45:26 The Clift

45:53 Michael Mina

46:04 Larry Traxler

47:54 The Royalton

48:14 W Hotels

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality is Being Selfless - Ron Swidler - Episode # 034 34 34 Hospitality is Being Selfless - Ron Swidler - Episode # 034 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/7d87da26-d939-3d18-87fa-cabe71bda942 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f43b66d Ron Swidler is the Founder of the Hotel Tomorrow and the Chief Innovation Office at the Gettys Group for 33 years. He knows that it takes courage to be innovative and creative. Ron’s passion is to strive for the best for his company and clients. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experience with #hospitality and how he views it. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It takes many hours to become an expert in a certain area, but it also takes a certain amount of luck as well. 
  • Surround yourself with people that you trust that can be advisors or mentors. That way when you start a new project you’ll have a supporting cast helping you. 
  • It takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and admit when you need help. Asking for help isn’t a terrible thing to be ashamed of, it’s what a good leader does. 
  • Hospitality has evolved into noticing how you make people feel. When we are at our best we are caring for others. 
  • There is a bit of selflessness in hospitality, as it is about giving back to others and making others feel comfortable and welcomed.
  • You need a signature for your company. You need something that when someone thinks of your company, they have an image in mind that fits your brand (i.e. Disney and Mickey Mouse or Cinderella's Castle). 
  • Bringing people’s attention to a better way to do projects (i.e. sustainability, community focus, etc.) is important as you can influence someone to have a better impact on a community.


Quote of the Show:

 

10:02 “Most people are familiar with Maya Angelou's quote about forgetting what I've said or what I do, but remembering how I make you feel. And I think ultimately that's what hospitality has evolved into. And I have an interesting theory about how that's going to progress out into the future because we're only at one step of that evolution. But I think when we're at our best, we're caring for others. There's a bit of selflessness in that.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:24 “Outliers”by Malcom Gladwell

3:59 Roger Hill

4:00 Andrew Fay

6:17 Marriott

7:49 Phil Cordell

7:53 Hilton

10:04 Maya Angelou

11:52 TripAdvisor

14:12 Disney Castle

18:59 Matt Phillips

21:57 USA Today

24:54 HD Expo

25:05 Howard Wolff

25:08 Starwood

25:13 Christian Strobel

25:38 Parsons School of Design

33:37 “Exponential Organizations” by Salim Ismail

35:56 “The Inevitable” by Kevin Kelly

37:46 Blair Batwani

40:33 Kraig Kalashian

44:46 “Radical Evolution” by Joel Gero 

44:46 Bill Joy 

45:06 Ray Kurzweil

48:47 Chris Milk


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Ron Swidler is the Founder of the Hotel Tomorrow and the Chief Innovation Office at the Gettys Group for 33 years. He knows that it takes courage to be innovative and creative. Ron’s passion is to strive for the best for his company and clients. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experience with #hospitality and how he views it. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It takes many hours to become an expert in a certain area, but it also takes a certain amount of luck as well. 
  • Surround yourself with people that you trust that can be advisors or mentors. That way when you start a new project you’ll have a supporting cast helping you. 
  • It takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and admit when you need help. Asking for help isn’t a terrible thing to be ashamed of, it’s what a good leader does. 
  • Hospitality has evolved into noticing how you make people feel. When we are at our best we are caring for others. 
  • There is a bit of selflessness in hospitality, as it is about giving back to others and making others feel comfortable and welcomed.
  • You need a signature for your company. You need something that when someone thinks of your company, they have an image in mind that fits your brand (i.e. Disney and Mickey Mouse or Cinderella's Castle). 
  • Bringing people’s attention to a better way to do projects (i.e. sustainability, community focus, etc.) is important as you can influence someone to have a better impact on a community.


Quote of the Show:

 

10:02 “Most people are familiar with Maya Angelou's quote about forgetting what I've said or what I do, but remembering how I make you feel. And I think ultimately that's what hospitality has evolved into. And I have an interesting theory about how that's going to progress out into the future because we're only at one step of that evolution. But I think when we're at our best, we're caring for others. There's a bit of selflessness in that.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:24 “Outliers”by Malcom Gladwell

3:59 Roger Hill

4:00 Andrew Fay

6:17 Marriott

7:49 Phil Cordell

7:53 Hilton

10:04 Maya Angelou

11:52 TripAdvisor

14:12 Disney Castle

18:59 Matt Phillips

21:57 USA Today

24:54 HD Expo

25:05 Howard Wolff

25:08 Starwood

25:13 Christian Strobel

25:38 Parsons School of Design

33:37 “Exponential Organizations” by Salim Ismail

35:56 “The Inevitable” by Kevin Kelly

37:46 Blair Batwani

40:33 Kraig Kalashian

44:46 “Radical Evolution” by Joel Gero 

44:46 Bill Joy 

45:06 Ray Kurzweil

48:47 Chris Milk


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4125 Ron Swidler is the Founder of the Hotel Tomorrow and the Chief Innovation Office at the Gettys Group for 33 years. He knows that it takes courage to be innovative and creative. Ron’s passion is to strive for the best for his company and clients. He joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experience with #hospitality and how he views it. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • It takes many hours to become an expert in a certain area, but it also takes a certain amount of luck as well. 
  • Surround yourself with people that you trust that can be advisors or mentors. That way when you start a new project you’ll have a supporting cast helping you. 
  • It takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and admit when you need help. Asking for help isn’t a terrible thing to be ashamed of, it’s what a good leader does. 
  • Hospitality has evolved into noticing how you make people feel. When we are at our best we are caring for others. 
  • There is a bit of selflessness in hospitality, as it is about giving back to others and making others feel comfortable and welcomed.
  • You need a signature for your company. You need something that when someone thinks of your company, they have an image in mind that fits your brand (i.e. Disney and Mickey Mouse or Cinderella's Castle). 
  • Bringing people’s attention to a better way to do projects (i.e. sustainability, community focus, etc.) is important as you can influence someone to have a better impact on a community.


Quote of the Show:

 

10:02 “Most people are familiar with Maya Angelou's quote about forgetting what I've said or what I do, but remembering how I make you feel. And I think ultimately that's what hospitality has evolved into. And I have an interesting theory about how that's going to progress out into the future because we're only at one step of that evolution. But I think when we're at our best, we're caring for others. There's a bit of selflessness in that.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

3:24 “Outliers”by Malcom Gladwell

3:59 Roger Hill

4:00 Andrew Fay

6:17 Marriott

7:49 Phil Cordell

7:53 Hilton

10:04 Maya Angelou

11:52 TripAdvisor

14:12 Disney Castle

18:59 Matt Phillips

21:57 USA Today

24:54 HD Expo

25:05 Howard Wolff

25:08 Starwood

25:13 Christian Strobel

25:38 Parsons School of Design

33:37 “Exponential Organizations” by Salim Ismail

35:56 “The Inevitable” by Kevin Kelly

37:46 Blair Batwani

40:33 Kraig Kalashian

44:46 “Radical Evolution” by Joel Gero 

44:46 Bill Joy 

45:06 Ray Kurzweil

48:47 Chris Milk


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Big H and Little h of Hospitality - Siobhan Barry - Episode # 033 33 33 The Big H and Little h of Hospitality - Siobhan Barry - Episode # 033 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/be854710-d6e2-3c51-be21-8380ba324d9c https://share.transistor.fm/s/c503d588 Siobhan Barry, Principal, Design Director, Hospitality Practice Area Leader North East at Gensler has been creating what she refers to as “Instagram moments” for over 20 years. She shares her outlook on #hospitality and her journey through the industry. Siobhan discusses with host Dan Ryan how hospitality can split into two different segments and how we can bring hospitality to all aspects of life.


Takeaways: 

 

  • As a designer, you have to create moments that are memorable for people. You want it to be captured and remembered, and this is referred to as an “instagram moment”
  • Designers can find a way to make people feel certain emotions when entering a room.
  • There is the “Big H” and “Little H” hospitality. The Big H is hotels, restaurants and the likes while the little h is everything else ranging from hospitals to stadiums.
  • When you think of the best times you’ve had, they weren’t digital and probably had some element of spontaneity to them. 
  • After 9/11, Siobhan went into business with a friend to open a nightclub to try and lift people’s spirits and provide for them a place to go.
  • Designing for celebration is a key aspect when thinking about creating a space. You want the room to feel joyous and full of energy.
  • Travel is making a comeback now and it is now seen as a basic human need, along with having new experiences.
  • To create the most innovation, you have to be willing to push the boundaries and try something different and unique.


Quote of the Show:

 

8:14 “I call it big H hospitality and small h hospitality. And what I mean by that is there's sort of the realm of the industry that we know, so that's the big H. I think of that as hotels, restaurants, spas, cruise ships, the things that we kind of know are in this industry category.

And then there's this small H which to me is everything else where, or every other arena in which our clients, our customers are, are expecting a different way of engaging than they have in the past been used to.”

 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Product Runway

1:20 ICRAVE

14:23 Sid’s Gold

16:11 Blondie

16:11 Gwen Stefani

16:21 Dusty Springfield

16:25 Patsy Cline

16:33 Fitz Gold

17:07 Calvin Klein

19:05 Swan Reserve

21:01 Lionel Ohayon

22:08 Prada

22:11 Madison Avenue

24:21 Dorsia

25:54 Crowbar

30:13 Airbnb 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Siobhan Barry, Principal, Design Director, Hospitality Practice Area Leader North East at Gensler has been creating what she refers to as “Instagram moments” for over 20 years. She shares her outlook on #hospitality and her journey through the industry. Siobhan discusses with host Dan Ryan how hospitality can split into two different segments and how we can bring hospitality to all aspects of life.


Takeaways: 

 

  • As a designer, you have to create moments that are memorable for people. You want it to be captured and remembered, and this is referred to as an “instagram moment”
  • Designers can find a way to make people feel certain emotions when entering a room.
  • There is the “Big H” and “Little H” hospitality. The Big H is hotels, restaurants and the likes while the little h is everything else ranging from hospitals to stadiums.
  • When you think of the best times you’ve had, they weren’t digital and probably had some element of spontaneity to them. 
  • After 9/11, Siobhan went into business with a friend to open a nightclub to try and lift people’s spirits and provide for them a place to go.
  • Designing for celebration is a key aspect when thinking about creating a space. You want the room to feel joyous and full of energy.
  • Travel is making a comeback now and it is now seen as a basic human need, along with having new experiences.
  • To create the most innovation, you have to be willing to push the boundaries and try something different and unique.


Quote of the Show:

 

8:14 “I call it big H hospitality and small h hospitality. And what I mean by that is there's sort of the realm of the industry that we know, so that's the big H. I think of that as hotels, restaurants, spas, cruise ships, the things that we kind of know are in this industry category.

And then there's this small H which to me is everything else where, or every other arena in which our clients, our customers are, are expecting a different way of engaging than they have in the past been used to.”

 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Product Runway

1:20 ICRAVE

14:23 Sid’s Gold

16:11 Blondie

16:11 Gwen Stefani

16:21 Dusty Springfield

16:25 Patsy Cline

16:33 Fitz Gold

17:07 Calvin Klein

19:05 Swan Reserve

21:01 Lionel Ohayon

22:08 Prada

22:11 Madison Avenue

24:21 Dorsia

25:54 Crowbar

30:13 Airbnb 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3556 Siobhan Barry, Principal, Design Director, Hospitality Practice Area Leader North East at Gensler has been creating what she refers to as “Instagram moments” for over 20 years. She shares her outlook on #hospitality and her journey through the industry. Siobhan discusses with host Dan Ryan how hospitality can split into two different segments and how we can bring hospitality to all aspects of life.


Takeaways: 

 

  • As a designer, you have to create moments that are memorable for people. You want it to be captured and remembered, and this is referred to as an “instagram moment”
  • Designers can find a way to make people feel certain emotions when entering a room.
  • There is the “Big H” and “Little H” hospitality. The Big H is hotels, restaurants and the likes while the little h is everything else ranging from hospitals to stadiums.
  • When you think of the best times you’ve had, they weren’t digital and probably had some element of spontaneity to them. 
  • After 9/11, Siobhan went into business with a friend to open a nightclub to try and lift people’s spirits and provide for them a place to go.
  • Designing for celebration is a key aspect when thinking about creating a space. You want the room to feel joyous and full of energy.
  • Travel is making a comeback now and it is now seen as a basic human need, along with having new experiences.
  • To create the most innovation, you have to be willing to push the boundaries and try something different and unique.


Quote of the Show:

 

8:14 “I call it big H hospitality and small h hospitality. And what I mean by that is there's sort of the realm of the industry that we know, so that's the big H. I think of that as hotels, restaurants, spas, cruise ships, the things that we kind of know are in this industry category.

And then there's this small H which to me is everything else where, or every other arena in which our clients, our customers are, are expecting a different way of engaging than they have in the past been used to.”

 

 

Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

0:43 Product Runway

1:20 ICRAVE

14:23 Sid’s Gold

16:11 Blondie

16:11 Gwen Stefani

16:21 Dusty Springfield

16:25 Patsy Cline

16:33 Fitz Gold

17:07 Calvin Klein

19:05 Swan Reserve

21:01 Lionel Ohayon

22:08 Prada

22:11 Madison Avenue

24:21 Dorsia

25:54 Crowbar

30:13 Airbnb 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Better Version Of Yourself - John DiJulius - Episode # 032 32 32 A Better Version Of Yourself - John DiJulius - Episode # 032 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/a971cb9b-da28-3f61-b2d5-47af05f3b033 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf28f642 John DiJulius, President of the DiJulius Group, started his enterperinaul career operating a hair salon with his wife in Cleveland. Now, he is an international consultant, working with companies like the Ritz-Carlton. He’s the author of many books, including the must read “Customer Service Revolution.” John joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his views on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • There are 10 rules to follow when it comes to customer service and making sure you provide a world class experience.
  • Hospitality is the emotional warmth that you get from someone. It’s not just contained to hotels and restaurants but applies in all aspects of life. 
  • The hospitality aptitude is a person's ability to recognize, meet and exceed customers expectations regardless of the circumstances. 
  • Hospitality can be defined by the five E’s; enthusiastic greeting, ear to ear smile, eye contact, engaged, and educate.
  • You want to be excited to have new clients or new guests at your hotel or restaurant. Excitement shows that you are and are interested in them.
  • There’s a gift in every conversation if you’re paying attention to it. You listen to what the other person is saying and send them a follow up, just to let them know you heard them.
  • F.O.R.D - Family, Occupation, Recreation, and Dreams. These are great ways to get to know someone and communicate with them.
  • John looks forward to the future where technology becomes better and better and makes all of our lives easier. 


Quote of the Show:

 

5:50  “I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a piece of the experience every company should deliver. I think PricewaterhouseCoopers, lawyers, whatever industry manufacturing, we should be in the hospitality business, all of us that happens to have really smart lawyers, accountants, widget makers, whatever that means. I really believe it and how I define hospitality is, it's a feeling you give me. Ideally it's an emotional warmth, but it's emotional.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:03 Ritz-Carlton

1:38 Chick-Fil-A

1:40 Starbucks

1:52 Spirit Airlines

10:00 Danny Meyer

10:01 Union Square Cafe

14:01 “How to Make Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

15:30 Balthazar, Keith McNally restaurant

20:50 New Day USA

48:48 Tesla 

48:50 Peloton

48:51 Lulu Lemon

48:54 Apple


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> John DiJulius, President of the DiJulius Group, started his enterperinaul career operating a hair salon with his wife in Cleveland. Now, he is an international consultant, working with companies like the Ritz-Carlton. He’s the author of many books, including the must read “Customer Service Revolution.” John joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his views on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • There are 10 rules to follow when it comes to customer service and making sure you provide a world class experience.
  • Hospitality is the emotional warmth that you get from someone. It’s not just contained to hotels and restaurants but applies in all aspects of life. 
  • The hospitality aptitude is a person's ability to recognize, meet and exceed customers expectations regardless of the circumstances. 
  • Hospitality can be defined by the five E’s; enthusiastic greeting, ear to ear smile, eye contact, engaged, and educate.
  • You want to be excited to have new clients or new guests at your hotel or restaurant. Excitement shows that you are and are interested in them.
  • There’s a gift in every conversation if you’re paying attention to it. You listen to what the other person is saying and send them a follow up, just to let them know you heard them.
  • F.O.R.D - Family, Occupation, Recreation, and Dreams. These are great ways to get to know someone and communicate with them.
  • John looks forward to the future where technology becomes better and better and makes all of our lives easier. 


Quote of the Show:

 

5:50  “I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a piece of the experience every company should deliver. I think PricewaterhouseCoopers, lawyers, whatever industry manufacturing, we should be in the hospitality business, all of us that happens to have really smart lawyers, accountants, widget makers, whatever that means. I really believe it and how I define hospitality is, it's a feeling you give me. Ideally it's an emotional warmth, but it's emotional.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:03 Ritz-Carlton

1:38 Chick-Fil-A

1:40 Starbucks

1:52 Spirit Airlines

10:00 Danny Meyer

10:01 Union Square Cafe

14:01 “How to Make Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

15:30 Balthazar, Keith McNally restaurant

20:50 New Day USA

48:48 Tesla 

48:50 Peloton

48:51 Lulu Lemon

48:54 Apple


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 17 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3984 John DiJulius, President of the DiJulius Group, started his enterperinaul career operating a hair salon with his wife in Cleveland. Now, he is an international consultant, working with companies like the Ritz-Carlton. He’s the author of many books, including the must read “Customer Service Revolution.” John joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his views on #hospitality and what it all means to him. 


Takeaways: 

  • There are 10 rules to follow when it comes to customer service and making sure you provide a world class experience.
  • Hospitality is the emotional warmth that you get from someone. It’s not just contained to hotels and restaurants but applies in all aspects of life. 
  • The hospitality aptitude is a person's ability to recognize, meet and exceed customers expectations regardless of the circumstances. 
  • Hospitality can be defined by the five E’s; enthusiastic greeting, ear to ear smile, eye contact, engaged, and educate.
  • You want to be excited to have new clients or new guests at your hotel or restaurant. Excitement shows that you are and are interested in them.
  • There’s a gift in every conversation if you’re paying attention to it. You listen to what the other person is saying and send them a follow up, just to let them know you heard them.
  • F.O.R.D - Family, Occupation, Recreation, and Dreams. These are great ways to get to know someone and communicate with them.
  • John looks forward to the future where technology becomes better and better and makes all of our lives easier. 


Quote of the Show:

 

5:50  “I don't believe hospitality is an industry. I believe it's a piece of the experience every company should deliver. I think PricewaterhouseCoopers, lawyers, whatever industry manufacturing, we should be in the hospitality business, all of us that happens to have really smart lawyers, accountants, widget makers, whatever that means. I really believe it and how I define hospitality is, it's a feeling you give me. Ideally it's an emotional warmth, but it's emotional.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:03 Ritz-Carlton

1:38 Chick-Fil-A

1:40 Starbucks

1:52 Spirit Airlines

10:00 Danny Meyer

10:01 Union Square Cafe

14:01 “How to Make Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

15:30 Balthazar, Keith McNally restaurant

20:50 New Day USA

48:48 Tesla 

48:50 Peloton

48:51 Lulu Lemon

48:54 Apple


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Having an Open Heart Posture - Aaron Anderson - Episode # 031 31 31 Having an Open Heart Posture - Aaron Anderson - Episode # 031 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/9a8d9ad7-5b34-3955-aa8b-f6d32f80211a https://share.transistor.fm/s/c297f538 A former firefighter now turned hotelier, today’s guest talks about how his experiences with his grandma’s hostel has influenced his view on hospitality. Aaron Anderson, a board member of the Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) and the CEO of 26 Co, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how the lack of diversity in higher up positions of #hospitality can be viewed as a more prominent issue and how important it is to have empathy and listen to others with an open heart. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • When coming up with a business plan, you need to have a clear goal or thesis that represents your values and what you want in the future.
  • Hospitality is providing a warm and safe environment for a guest. No matter what the guest is going through, making sure they are feeling safe and welcomed can bring plenty of relief.
  • Getting to know people on a personal level and understanding what their feelings are is a big part of hospitality.
  • It’s important to keep an open heart and listen to others, as it helps you understand not only the guest but also yourself.
  • You can always build empathy. It’s ok to admit you don’t know the right thing to say or do, but as long as you approach the situation with an open heart then you can learn.
  • The hospitality industry is diverse but only at the lower level positions. As you get higher and higher in the rankins to the c-suite level, you see less and less diversity which is an issue.
  • Don’t take any moment for granted. We get caught up in the tough love we put ourselves through, but everything will work out like it’s meant to. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:58 “I think hospitality is really just providing that place of warmth for someone. Due to it being, traveling due to being their friend that needs to come over and to sleep over and spend some time with you because they're that they're going through something. That moment when my grandmother owned the shelter for women and children, we were in hospitality. We're providing meals, we're providing a warm bed to stay, providing clothes. Hospitality is just not hotels or restaurants. It's really providing a cozy place in a safe place.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:36 Hunter Conference

8:19 Jason Caldwell

8:24 HD Summit

20:53 Black Lives Matter

21:38 George Floyd

23:01 HDAC

23:27 Nina Grondin

23:28 Damon Lawrence

23:28 Bashar Wali

25:30 Entrepreneur’s Organization

28:59 Blockbuster

29:06 Netflix

29:29 Tom Healy

31:49 ACE Hotel

31:51 Brad Wilson

35:12 Malcom X College

40:00 Cliff Eric

40:04 Ralph Angerberger

40:06 Laurie Horvath

40:09 Steve Shoat

40:13 Scott Hammons

40:25 Karen Harrington

40:34 Angela Clark

41:26 Cliff Derkin

43:24 Scott Hammons

43:27 Alan Benjamin

47:20 Mikey Dobin


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> A former firefighter now turned hotelier, today’s guest talks about how his experiences with his grandma’s hostel has influenced his view on hospitality. Aaron Anderson, a board member of the Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) and the CEO of 26 Co, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how the lack of diversity in higher up positions of #hospitality can be viewed as a more prominent issue and how important it is to have empathy and listen to others with an open heart. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • When coming up with a business plan, you need to have a clear goal or thesis that represents your values and what you want in the future.
  • Hospitality is providing a warm and safe environment for a guest. No matter what the guest is going through, making sure they are feeling safe and welcomed can bring plenty of relief.
  • Getting to know people on a personal level and understanding what their feelings are is a big part of hospitality.
  • It’s important to keep an open heart and listen to others, as it helps you understand not only the guest but also yourself.
  • You can always build empathy. It’s ok to admit you don’t know the right thing to say or do, but as long as you approach the situation with an open heart then you can learn.
  • The hospitality industry is diverse but only at the lower level positions. As you get higher and higher in the rankins to the c-suite level, you see less and less diversity which is an issue.
  • Don’t take any moment for granted. We get caught up in the tough love we put ourselves through, but everything will work out like it’s meant to. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:58 “I think hospitality is really just providing that place of warmth for someone. Due to it being, traveling due to being their friend that needs to come over and to sleep over and spend some time with you because they're that they're going through something. That moment when my grandmother owned the shelter for women and children, we were in hospitality. We're providing meals, we're providing a warm bed to stay, providing clothes. Hospitality is just not hotels or restaurants. It's really providing a cozy place in a safe place.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:36 Hunter Conference

8:19 Jason Caldwell

8:24 HD Summit

20:53 Black Lives Matter

21:38 George Floyd

23:01 HDAC

23:27 Nina Grondin

23:28 Damon Lawrence

23:28 Bashar Wali

25:30 Entrepreneur’s Organization

28:59 Blockbuster

29:06 Netflix

29:29 Tom Healy

31:49 ACE Hotel

31:51 Brad Wilson

35:12 Malcom X College

40:00 Cliff Eric

40:04 Ralph Angerberger

40:06 Laurie Horvath

40:09 Steve Shoat

40:13 Scott Hammons

40:25 Karen Harrington

40:34 Angela Clark

41:26 Cliff Derkin

43:24 Scott Hammons

43:27 Alan Benjamin

47:20 Mikey Dobin


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3654 A former firefighter now turned hotelier, today’s guest talks about how his experiences with his grandma’s hostel has influenced his view on hospitality. Aaron Anderson, a board member of the Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) and the CEO of 26 Co, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how the lack of diversity in higher up positions of #hospitality can be viewed as a more prominent issue and how important it is to have empathy and listen to others with an open heart. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • When coming up with a business plan, you need to have a clear goal or thesis that represents your values and what you want in the future.
  • Hospitality is providing a warm and safe environment for a guest. No matter what the guest is going through, making sure they are feeling safe and welcomed can bring plenty of relief.
  • Getting to know people on a personal level and understanding what their feelings are is a big part of hospitality.
  • It’s important to keep an open heart and listen to others, as it helps you understand not only the guest but also yourself.
  • You can always build empathy. It’s ok to admit you don’t know the right thing to say or do, but as long as you approach the situation with an open heart then you can learn.
  • The hospitality industry is diverse but only at the lower level positions. As you get higher and higher in the rankins to the c-suite level, you see less and less diversity which is an issue.
  • Don’t take any moment for granted. We get caught up in the tough love we put ourselves through, but everything will work out like it’s meant to. 


Quote of the Show:

 

6:58 “I think hospitality is really just providing that place of warmth for someone. Due to it being, traveling due to being their friend that needs to come over and to sleep over and spend some time with you because they're that they're going through something. That moment when my grandmother owned the shelter for women and children, we were in hospitality. We're providing meals, we're providing a warm bed to stay, providing clothes. Hospitality is just not hotels or restaurants. It's really providing a cozy place in a safe place.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs:

 

0:36 Hunter Conference

8:19 Jason Caldwell

8:24 HD Summit

20:53 Black Lives Matter

21:38 George Floyd

23:01 HDAC

23:27 Nina Grondin

23:28 Damon Lawrence

23:28 Bashar Wali

25:30 Entrepreneur’s Organization

28:59 Blockbuster

29:06 Netflix

29:29 Tom Healy

31:49 ACE Hotel

31:51 Brad Wilson

35:12 Malcom X College

40:00 Cliff Eric

40:04 Ralph Angerberger

40:06 Laurie Horvath

40:09 Steve Shoat

40:13 Scott Hammons

40:25 Karen Harrington

40:34 Angela Clark

41:26 Cliff Derkin

43:24 Scott Hammons

43:27 Alan Benjamin

47:20 Mikey Dobin


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Building for Sustainability - JoAnna Abrams - Episode # 030 30 30 Building for Sustainability - JoAnna Abrams - Episode # 030 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/cb0c98a2-3101-3c8d-a55a-fb5e492ac229 https://share.transistor.fm/s/05866df0 Creating a sustainable environment in hospitality and all aspects of life is incredibly important; it allows us to live healthier lives and give back to the environment and the world. Sharing this view is JoAnna Abrams who is not only the Founder & CEO of Mindclick, Inc but she’s also been named a hospitality industry innovator by Lodging Magazine. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how sustainability plays a big role in hospitality, and how guests are becoming more aware of the need for a change in going green, and how guests are now more likely to stay in a hotel that does more for the environment than one that does not. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Sustainability is an important part of hospitality. You want to make sure the products you are using will last for a long time and are good for the environment.
  • While it’s worth noting the profit motive for trying to have more sustainability in hotels, it’s also worth doing for the health of the planet. All big banks have committed that by 2050, 100% of their lending will be carbon neutral.
  • Guests will choose to stay in a hotel that cares about the environment and commits to a healthier lifestyle rather than one that doesn’t.
  • The power of hospitality is made from the people who work in the industry and strive to create fun, enjoyable experiences anywhere in the world. 
  • Designers have struggled with being overwhelmed by all the certifications that are out there, so if a top 100 firm hires them it’s a big help and influence. 
  • Nature continually adapts and evolves and we need to as well, in regards to sustainability and the environment.
  • Taking an idea, executing it and implementing it in your company is really the basis of what being an entrepreneur is.
  • You don’t always have to take positions that you think are the ones that you think you have to have to advance your career. Life isn’t a straight line and sometimes a new position can provide helpful life changes. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:20: And then a huge, huge component of hospitality is service. It really is that experience that you have is based upon the environment that's created through a service orientation. And it was interesting in the research that we did, a digital marketing campaign for a courtyard that was renovated in Southern California, where we told guests about the positive impacts of products chosen for a quarter.

 

It had been following a renovation, both environmental and social, and health and so on. And we did, we then looked at the research results and saw 150% increase in satisfaction and loyalty and all these key measures. And we interviewed these folks who had seen the marketing campaign and said, okay, Talk to us about this.

 

What would this mean to you? And over and over and over again, we heard that people saying a hotel that has gone out of its way to choose products that are better for me and the planet, is really taking care of us. And that really stands out and I'm going to choose that hotel over others.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:57 Heather Gatineau

2:23 Toyota

4:03 Diana Dobin

4:24 Valley Forge Fabrics

7:47 Marriott

8:14 Hyatt

8:15 IHG

8:18 Wyndham

9:01 Dave Lippert

12:12 Larry Fink

13:15 Gretta Turnberg

14:49 Real Time with Bill Maher

21:00 Avinash Rajagopal

21:02 Metropolis Magazine

30:06 Paul McElroy

32:20 Susan Suhar

37:58 Prius

38:00 Tesla

39:57 Dean Witter Reynolds

40:09 Arthur Anderson

41:27 Warburg Pincus

1:03:09 Arnie Mahlham


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Creating a sustainable environment in hospitality and all aspects of life is incredibly important; it allows us to live healthier lives and give back to the environment and the world. Sharing this view is JoAnna Abrams who is not only the Founder & CEO of Mindclick, Inc but she’s also been named a hospitality industry innovator by Lodging Magazine. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how sustainability plays a big role in hospitality, and how guests are becoming more aware of the need for a change in going green, and how guests are now more likely to stay in a hotel that does more for the environment than one that does not. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Sustainability is an important part of hospitality. You want to make sure the products you are using will last for a long time and are good for the environment.
  • While it’s worth noting the profit motive for trying to have more sustainability in hotels, it’s also worth doing for the health of the planet. All big banks have committed that by 2050, 100% of their lending will be carbon neutral.
  • Guests will choose to stay in a hotel that cares about the environment and commits to a healthier lifestyle rather than one that doesn’t.
  • The power of hospitality is made from the people who work in the industry and strive to create fun, enjoyable experiences anywhere in the world. 
  • Designers have struggled with being overwhelmed by all the certifications that are out there, so if a top 100 firm hires them it’s a big help and influence. 
  • Nature continually adapts and evolves and we need to as well, in regards to sustainability and the environment.
  • Taking an idea, executing it and implementing it in your company is really the basis of what being an entrepreneur is.
  • You don’t always have to take positions that you think are the ones that you think you have to have to advance your career. Life isn’t a straight line and sometimes a new position can provide helpful life changes. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:20: And then a huge, huge component of hospitality is service. It really is that experience that you have is based upon the environment that's created through a service orientation. And it was interesting in the research that we did, a digital marketing campaign for a courtyard that was renovated in Southern California, where we told guests about the positive impacts of products chosen for a quarter.

 

It had been following a renovation, both environmental and social, and health and so on. And we did, we then looked at the research results and saw 150% increase in satisfaction and loyalty and all these key measures. And we interviewed these folks who had seen the marketing campaign and said, okay, Talk to us about this.

 

What would this mean to you? And over and over and over again, we heard that people saying a hotel that has gone out of its way to choose products that are better for me and the planet, is really taking care of us. And that really stands out and I'm going to choose that hotel over others.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:57 Heather Gatineau

2:23 Toyota

4:03 Diana Dobin

4:24 Valley Forge Fabrics

7:47 Marriott

8:14 Hyatt

8:15 IHG

8:18 Wyndham

9:01 Dave Lippert

12:12 Larry Fink

13:15 Gretta Turnberg

14:49 Real Time with Bill Maher

21:00 Avinash Rajagopal

21:02 Metropolis Magazine

30:06 Paul McElroy

32:20 Susan Suhar

37:58 Prius

38:00 Tesla

39:57 Dean Witter Reynolds

40:09 Arthur Anderson

41:27 Warburg Pincus

1:03:09 Arnie Mahlham


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 10 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4102 Creating a sustainable environment in hospitality and all aspects of life is incredibly important; it allows us to live healthier lives and give back to the environment and the world. Sharing this view is JoAnna Abrams who is not only the Founder & CEO of Mindclick, Inc but she’s also been named a hospitality industry innovator by Lodging Magazine. She joins host Dan Ryan to talk about how sustainability plays a big role in hospitality, and how guests are becoming more aware of the need for a change in going green, and how guests are now more likely to stay in a hotel that does more for the environment than one that does not. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Sustainability is an important part of hospitality. You want to make sure the products you are using will last for a long time and are good for the environment.
  • While it’s worth noting the profit motive for trying to have more sustainability in hotels, it’s also worth doing for the health of the planet. All big banks have committed that by 2050, 100% of their lending will be carbon neutral.
  • Guests will choose to stay in a hotel that cares about the environment and commits to a healthier lifestyle rather than one that doesn’t.
  • The power of hospitality is made from the people who work in the industry and strive to create fun, enjoyable experiences anywhere in the world. 
  • Designers have struggled with being overwhelmed by all the certifications that are out there, so if a top 100 firm hires them it’s a big help and influence. 
  • Nature continually adapts and evolves and we need to as well, in regards to sustainability and the environment.
  • Taking an idea, executing it and implementing it in your company is really the basis of what being an entrepreneur is.
  • You don’t always have to take positions that you think are the ones that you think you have to have to advance your career. Life isn’t a straight line and sometimes a new position can provide helpful life changes. 


Quote of the Show:

 

16:20: And then a huge, huge component of hospitality is service. It really is that experience that you have is based upon the environment that's created through a service orientation. And it was interesting in the research that we did, a digital marketing campaign for a courtyard that was renovated in Southern California, where we told guests about the positive impacts of products chosen for a quarter.

 

It had been following a renovation, both environmental and social, and health and so on. And we did, we then looked at the research results and saw 150% increase in satisfaction and loyalty and all these key measures. And we interviewed these folks who had seen the marketing campaign and said, okay, Talk to us about this.

 

What would this mean to you? And over and over and over again, we heard that people saying a hotel that has gone out of its way to choose products that are better for me and the planet, is really taking care of us. And that really stands out and I'm going to choose that hotel over others.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

1:57 Heather Gatineau

2:23 Toyota

4:03 Diana Dobin

4:24 Valley Forge Fabrics

7:47 Marriott

8:14 Hyatt

8:15 IHG

8:18 Wyndham

9:01 Dave Lippert

12:12 Larry Fink

13:15 Gretta Turnberg

14:49 Real Time with Bill Maher

21:00 Avinash Rajagopal

21:02 Metropolis Magazine

30:06 Paul McElroy

32:20 Susan Suhar

37:58 Prius

38:00 Tesla

39:57 Dean Witter Reynolds

40:09 Arthur Anderson

41:27 Warburg Pincus

1:03:09 Arnie Mahlham


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Sustainability, hospitality, hospitality design, supply chain, design, interior design No Dan Ryan Creating Beautiful Experiences - Sarah Klymson - Episode # 029 29 29 Creating Beautiful Experiences - Sarah Klymson - Episode # 029 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/cbb519ac-d46e-3468-9110-4864c6496920 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b4a8d91f Today’s guest started her career in hospitality in a very unusual place; McDonald’s! She focused on how architecture and design could connect with the customers at the restaurant. Now, Sarah Klymson is the Vice President of Product Brand Development at Hyatt Hotels. She joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her journey through #hospitality and how she views the industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You can use architecture to create a warm and inviting feeling for guests when they come across a hotel or restaurant. The same can be done for design.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about providing a great service, it’s also about inspiring your guests so that they take that inspiration with them when they leave.
  • It’s important to remain authentic and genuine in the hospitality industry. Staying with what makes your brand stand out is always important to keep. 
  • Your hotel or restaurant should be more than just a destination. You want to bring something that no one else can bring to the table. 
  • Being present in the moment is a beautiful feeling. It’s important to take time to be away from all the technology and just relax. 
  • Being intentional is the ultimate form of mindfulness.
  • It’s important to be aware of the things in your life that upset you and try to find a way to overcome those things and better yourself as a person.
  • You can create a beautiful space, but the key point is making sure the experience itself is something that can change someone’s life for the better. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:09 “One of the biggest things that I actually was reminded of this week when I traveled is how important inspiration is in a hospitality experience. Inspiring people and creating experiences for them that they will take into their lives. That's what hospitality is about. It's not just about caring for people and creating a wonderful experience when they're there, but it's also inspiring them, getting them to think about things in a different way.

 

When they go back into their normal lives, they take that sense of inspiration and hopefully it bleeds into other areas of their lives. I think that's really what's at the core. And I think that's why people are so passionate about this industry is because it inspires them. The sense of passion can come out and what we create either through design or the experiences that we create on property.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:44 McDonald’s

10:29: Miraval

14:46 Mark Hoplamazian

39:57 Hoffman Process

46:50 Jerry Seinfeld

54:05: Rookie Smarts 

56:57 Vasu Dora


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest started her career in hospitality in a very unusual place; McDonald’s! She focused on how architecture and design could connect with the customers at the restaurant. Now, Sarah Klymson is the Vice President of Product Brand Development at Hyatt Hotels. She joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her journey through #hospitality and how she views the industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You can use architecture to create a warm and inviting feeling for guests when they come across a hotel or restaurant. The same can be done for design.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about providing a great service, it’s also about inspiring your guests so that they take that inspiration with them when they leave.
  • It’s important to remain authentic and genuine in the hospitality industry. Staying with what makes your brand stand out is always important to keep. 
  • Your hotel or restaurant should be more than just a destination. You want to bring something that no one else can bring to the table. 
  • Being present in the moment is a beautiful feeling. It’s important to take time to be away from all the technology and just relax. 
  • Being intentional is the ultimate form of mindfulness.
  • It’s important to be aware of the things in your life that upset you and try to find a way to overcome those things and better yourself as a person.
  • You can create a beautiful space, but the key point is making sure the experience itself is something that can change someone’s life for the better. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:09 “One of the biggest things that I actually was reminded of this week when I traveled is how important inspiration is in a hospitality experience. Inspiring people and creating experiences for them that they will take into their lives. That's what hospitality is about. It's not just about caring for people and creating a wonderful experience when they're there, but it's also inspiring them, getting them to think about things in a different way.

 

When they go back into their normal lives, they take that sense of inspiration and hopefully it bleeds into other areas of their lives. I think that's really what's at the core. And I think that's why people are so passionate about this industry is because it inspires them. The sense of passion can come out and what we create either through design or the experiences that we create on property.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:44 McDonald’s

10:29: Miraval

14:46 Mark Hoplamazian

39:57 Hoffman Process

46:50 Jerry Seinfeld

54:05: Rookie Smarts 

56:57 Vasu Dora


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3819 Today’s guest started her career in hospitality in a very unusual place; McDonald’s! She focused on how architecture and design could connect with the customers at the restaurant. Now, Sarah Klymson is the Vice President of Product Brand Development at Hyatt Hotels. She joins host Dan Ryan to discuss her journey through #hospitality and how she views the industry. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • You can use architecture to create a warm and inviting feeling for guests when they come across a hotel or restaurant. The same can be done for design.
  • Hospitality isn’t just about providing a great service, it’s also about inspiring your guests so that they take that inspiration with them when they leave.
  • It’s important to remain authentic and genuine in the hospitality industry. Staying with what makes your brand stand out is always important to keep. 
  • Your hotel or restaurant should be more than just a destination. You want to bring something that no one else can bring to the table. 
  • Being present in the moment is a beautiful feeling. It’s important to take time to be away from all the technology and just relax. 
  • Being intentional is the ultimate form of mindfulness.
  • It’s important to be aware of the things in your life that upset you and try to find a way to overcome those things and better yourself as a person.
  • You can create a beautiful space, but the key point is making sure the experience itself is something that can change someone’s life for the better. 


Quote of the Show:

 

9:09 “One of the biggest things that I actually was reminded of this week when I traveled is how important inspiration is in a hospitality experience. Inspiring people and creating experiences for them that they will take into their lives. That's what hospitality is about. It's not just about caring for people and creating a wonderful experience when they're there, but it's also inspiring them, getting them to think about things in a different way.

 

When they go back into their normal lives, they take that sense of inspiration and hopefully it bleeds into other areas of their lives. I think that's really what's at the core. And I think that's why people are so passionate about this industry is because it inspires them. The sense of passion can come out and what we create either through design or the experiences that we create on property.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:44 McDonald’s

10:29: Miraval

14:46 Mark Hoplamazian

39:57 Hoffman Process

46:50 Jerry Seinfeld

54:05: Rookie Smarts 

56:57 Vasu Dora


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Power of Gratitude - Keith Roberts - Episode # 028 28 28 The Power of Gratitude - Keith Roberts - Episode # 028 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ec1e4d0a-4e54-3689-bb8a-4a359a7c81d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa19dd42 Improving your life can seem like an incredibly daunting task, but if you just take some simple steps in doing so, you can accomplish anything. Keith Roberts is the Founder and Creative Director at Zenman & US Director at emBlue, as well as the Creator & Author of the “Oak Journal” and an upcoming book “Becoming Zenman”. He has searched the world to find ways that people can use to make incremental changes in their lives for the better, like setting one personal goal, one family goal and one business goal a day to become a balanced individual. He joins host Dan Ryan to share his insights on #hospitality and how mastering your goals can create a better you!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Life is too short to learn from experience. It’s helpful to provide people with roadmaps on how to accomplish goals that they have set for themselves in life. 
  • If you want to reach your goals in life, you need to work on it everyday and have a structured system to get it done. 
  • To be a balanced individual, everyday you need to make incremental improvements in one business goal, one personal goal and one family goal.
  • Hospitality isn’t just the food or the location, but it’s also the atmosphere and going above and beyond for those staying at your hotel or restaurant.
  • Start your day with gratitude. It gets your day going on a positive note and makes you a happier person overall.
  • Following Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 rule will change your life for the better. You start your day with 10 minutes of meditation, 10 minutes of reading and 10 minutes of positive journaling. 
  • To make sure you reach your goals, the oak journal that Keith wrote created a three step process; state your goals, visualize it and then actually feel the emotion from it.
  • As Henry David Thoreau once said, “Suck all the marrow out of life”. That is advice that Keith would give to his younger self. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:18 We've all heard that story about that, the forgotten Teddy bear. But I think it's in so many books because it's such a perfect example. Kid forgets the Teddy bear and can't sleep.

Dad calls the four seasons and says, Hey, I forgot my Teddy bear. I convinced little Billy to go to bed because Teddy bear stayed for an extended vacation. They not only sent the Teddy bear back, but they sent a photo book of the Teddy bear playing golf, the Teddy bear at the spa with cucumbers over his eyes.

So they spent an hour, the employees probably had a blast doing it, and it's in dozens of books on culture, business, customer service, leadership, that example. You never know what little above and beyond thing, and for me, for the journal, I get paid to speak. But if there's one person that I meet at an airport, I will give my keynote

If I've got time to that person and share the knowledge, the tools, and hopefully inspire them to be the best version of themselves.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:16 Bodhisattva

3:41 Warren Rustand

4:03 Gino Wickman

28:49 Machu Picchu

32:18 Henry David Thoreau

33:08 Walden Pond


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Improving your life can seem like an incredibly daunting task, but if you just take some simple steps in doing so, you can accomplish anything. Keith Roberts is the Founder and Creative Director at Zenman & US Director at emBlue, as well as the Creator & Author of the “Oak Journal” and an upcoming book “Becoming Zenman”. He has searched the world to find ways that people can use to make incremental changes in their lives for the better, like setting one personal goal, one family goal and one business goal a day to become a balanced individual. He joins host Dan Ryan to share his insights on #hospitality and how mastering your goals can create a better you!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Life is too short to learn from experience. It’s helpful to provide people with roadmaps on how to accomplish goals that they have set for themselves in life. 
  • If you want to reach your goals in life, you need to work on it everyday and have a structured system to get it done. 
  • To be a balanced individual, everyday you need to make incremental improvements in one business goal, one personal goal and one family goal.
  • Hospitality isn’t just the food or the location, but it’s also the atmosphere and going above and beyond for those staying at your hotel or restaurant.
  • Start your day with gratitude. It gets your day going on a positive note and makes you a happier person overall.
  • Following Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 rule will change your life for the better. You start your day with 10 minutes of meditation, 10 minutes of reading and 10 minutes of positive journaling. 
  • To make sure you reach your goals, the oak journal that Keith wrote created a three step process; state your goals, visualize it and then actually feel the emotion from it.
  • As Henry David Thoreau once said, “Suck all the marrow out of life”. That is advice that Keith would give to his younger self. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:18 We've all heard that story about that, the forgotten Teddy bear. But I think it's in so many books because it's such a perfect example. Kid forgets the Teddy bear and can't sleep.

Dad calls the four seasons and says, Hey, I forgot my Teddy bear. I convinced little Billy to go to bed because Teddy bear stayed for an extended vacation. They not only sent the Teddy bear back, but they sent a photo book of the Teddy bear playing golf, the Teddy bear at the spa with cucumbers over his eyes.

So they spent an hour, the employees probably had a blast doing it, and it's in dozens of books on culture, business, customer service, leadership, that example. You never know what little above and beyond thing, and for me, for the journal, I get paid to speak. But if there's one person that I meet at an airport, I will give my keynote

If I've got time to that person and share the knowledge, the tools, and hopefully inspire them to be the best version of themselves.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:16 Bodhisattva

3:41 Warren Rustand

4:03 Gino Wickman

28:49 Machu Picchu

32:18 Henry David Thoreau

33:08 Walden Pond


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 03 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2124 Improving your life can seem like an incredibly daunting task, but if you just take some simple steps in doing so, you can accomplish anything. Keith Roberts is the Founder and Creative Director at Zenman & US Director at emBlue, as well as the Creator & Author of the “Oak Journal” and an upcoming book “Becoming Zenman”. He has searched the world to find ways that people can use to make incremental changes in their lives for the better, like setting one personal goal, one family goal and one business goal a day to become a balanced individual. He joins host Dan Ryan to share his insights on #hospitality and how mastering your goals can create a better you!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Life is too short to learn from experience. It’s helpful to provide people with roadmaps on how to accomplish goals that they have set for themselves in life. 
  • If you want to reach your goals in life, you need to work on it everyday and have a structured system to get it done. 
  • To be a balanced individual, everyday you need to make incremental improvements in one business goal, one personal goal and one family goal.
  • Hospitality isn’t just the food or the location, but it’s also the atmosphere and going above and beyond for those staying at your hotel or restaurant.
  • Start your day with gratitude. It gets your day going on a positive note and makes you a happier person overall.
  • Following Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 rule will change your life for the better. You start your day with 10 minutes of meditation, 10 minutes of reading and 10 minutes of positive journaling. 
  • To make sure you reach your goals, the oak journal that Keith wrote created a three step process; state your goals, visualize it and then actually feel the emotion from it.
  • As Henry David Thoreau once said, “Suck all the marrow out of life”. That is advice that Keith would give to his younger self. 


Quote of the Show:

 

11:18 We've all heard that story about that, the forgotten Teddy bear. But I think it's in so many books because it's such a perfect example. Kid forgets the Teddy bear and can't sleep.

Dad calls the four seasons and says, Hey, I forgot my Teddy bear. I convinced little Billy to go to bed because Teddy bear stayed for an extended vacation. They not only sent the Teddy bear back, but they sent a photo book of the Teddy bear playing golf, the Teddy bear at the spa with cucumbers over his eyes.

So they spent an hour, the employees probably had a blast doing it, and it's in dozens of books on culture, business, customer service, leadership, that example. You never know what little above and beyond thing, and for me, for the journal, I get paid to speak. But if there's one person that I meet at an airport, I will give my keynote

If I've got time to that person and share the knowledge, the tools, and hopefully inspire them to be the best version of themselves.” 


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

2:16 Bodhisattva

3:41 Warren Rustand

4:03 Gino Wickman

28:49 Machu Picchu

32:18 Henry David Thoreau

33:08 Walden Pond


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Hospitality Gene - Harsha L’Acqua - Episode # 027 27 27 The Hospitality Gene - Harsha L’Acqua - Episode # 027 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/e1de05a9-1cf4-3a47-9e1f-ad9232a90041 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6e355e4f Harsha L’Acqua, Founder of Saira Hospitality, wants others to develop the “hospitality gene” for others. She has created a unique business to help students interested in hospitality find their way to the industry through what she refers to as pop up hospitality schools. Harsha shares with host Dan Ryan how to grow and develop this hospitality gene and her take on defining hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When we first make hotels, walls are the first thing that are put up. To the community it comes off as that it is a boundary they aren’t allowed to enter, but they should feel welcomed by these additions to their areas. 
  • Hospitality is more a gene that people have. It is based on empathy and the ability to understand the needs and feelings of others. 
  • Not everyone has the ability to make others feel comfortable. It’s a skill that can’t be taught, some are just born with it. You can hone that skill to better serve your guests.
  • Hospitality now has a need to hire anyone and everyone, and that includes giving chances to those who were formerly incarcerated. Everyone deserves a second chance.
  • It’s important to take a minute and listen to those around you. You don’t always need to have an answer, just knowing that someone is being heard is enough.
  • Harsha’s advice to others is to be more open minded. Listen to those around you and be open to new experiences and journeys. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:36 ​​”It isn't a universal thing to make people feel comfortable. And we talk about what we're calling the hospitality gene, and we teach that in week two. The hospitality gene is more of a mentality that we believe people have that's based on empathy and the ability to understand not only the needs of other people, but the feelings of other people. And so hospitality itself is very much along those lines. To me it's not the hotel. It's not, unfortunately, the design to me, it's the feeling they can be met if you look at the hierarchy of needs. And you're like, okay, great. I've got shelter, I've got food, I've got water. I'm good. Or they could be met hopefully in kind of true hospitality to another level where your needs are being exceeded, needs that you didn't even know that needed to be met, are being met.

 

But the beauty of that in terms of hospitality is that once there's, those needs to whatever level. And I think that really goes along the spectrum of luxury to kind of entry-level hotels. But once they're met, that leaves this space for the guest to then be able to feel, to come back to who they are as people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:51 Rosewood

1:52 Four Seasons

1:52 Virgin

4:03 ACE Hotel

4:06 Home

10:26 Kevin Austerhouse

10:47 Soho House, London

12:40 Six Senses

24:53 Chris Voss

31:48 Coss Marte

32:20 Saks Fifth Avenue

32:44 CONBODY

38:13 Andre Balazs

38:15 William Beaver House

40:27 “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

45:13 ASG

49:14 Citibank

56:59 Mother Teresa 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Harsha L’Acqua, Founder of Saira Hospitality, wants others to develop the “hospitality gene” for others. She has created a unique business to help students interested in hospitality find their way to the industry through what she refers to as pop up hospitality schools. Harsha shares with host Dan Ryan how to grow and develop this hospitality gene and her take on defining hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When we first make hotels, walls are the first thing that are put up. To the community it comes off as that it is a boundary they aren’t allowed to enter, but they should feel welcomed by these additions to their areas. 
  • Hospitality is more a gene that people have. It is based on empathy and the ability to understand the needs and feelings of others. 
  • Not everyone has the ability to make others feel comfortable. It’s a skill that can’t be taught, some are just born with it. You can hone that skill to better serve your guests.
  • Hospitality now has a need to hire anyone and everyone, and that includes giving chances to those who were formerly incarcerated. Everyone deserves a second chance.
  • It’s important to take a minute and listen to those around you. You don’t always need to have an answer, just knowing that someone is being heard is enough.
  • Harsha’s advice to others is to be more open minded. Listen to those around you and be open to new experiences and journeys. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:36 ​​”It isn't a universal thing to make people feel comfortable. And we talk about what we're calling the hospitality gene, and we teach that in week two. The hospitality gene is more of a mentality that we believe people have that's based on empathy and the ability to understand not only the needs of other people, but the feelings of other people. And so hospitality itself is very much along those lines. To me it's not the hotel. It's not, unfortunately, the design to me, it's the feeling they can be met if you look at the hierarchy of needs. And you're like, okay, great. I've got shelter, I've got food, I've got water. I'm good. Or they could be met hopefully in kind of true hospitality to another level where your needs are being exceeded, needs that you didn't even know that needed to be met, are being met.

 

But the beauty of that in terms of hospitality is that once there's, those needs to whatever level. And I think that really goes along the spectrum of luxury to kind of entry-level hotels. But once they're met, that leaves this space for the guest to then be able to feel, to come back to who they are as people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:51 Rosewood

1:52 Four Seasons

1:52 Virgin

4:03 ACE Hotel

4:06 Home

10:26 Kevin Austerhouse

10:47 Soho House, London

12:40 Six Senses

24:53 Chris Voss

31:48 Coss Marte

32:20 Saks Fifth Avenue

32:44 CONBODY

38:13 Andre Balazs

38:15 William Beaver House

40:27 “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

45:13 ASG

49:14 Citibank

56:59 Mother Teresa 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3723 Harsha L’Acqua, Founder of Saira Hospitality, wants others to develop the “hospitality gene” for others. She has created a unique business to help students interested in hospitality find their way to the industry through what she refers to as pop up hospitality schools. Harsha shares with host Dan Ryan how to grow and develop this hospitality gene and her take on defining hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • When we first make hotels, walls are the first thing that are put up. To the community it comes off as that it is a boundary they aren’t allowed to enter, but they should feel welcomed by these additions to their areas. 
  • Hospitality is more a gene that people have. It is based on empathy and the ability to understand the needs and feelings of others. 
  • Not everyone has the ability to make others feel comfortable. It’s a skill that can’t be taught, some are just born with it. You can hone that skill to better serve your guests.
  • Hospitality now has a need to hire anyone and everyone, and that includes giving chances to those who were formerly incarcerated. Everyone deserves a second chance.
  • It’s important to take a minute and listen to those around you. You don’t always need to have an answer, just knowing that someone is being heard is enough.
  • Harsha’s advice to others is to be more open minded. Listen to those around you and be open to new experiences and journeys. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:36 ​​”It isn't a universal thing to make people feel comfortable. And we talk about what we're calling the hospitality gene, and we teach that in week two. The hospitality gene is more of a mentality that we believe people have that's based on empathy and the ability to understand not only the needs of other people, but the feelings of other people. And so hospitality itself is very much along those lines. To me it's not the hotel. It's not, unfortunately, the design to me, it's the feeling they can be met if you look at the hierarchy of needs. And you're like, okay, great. I've got shelter, I've got food, I've got water. I'm good. Or they could be met hopefully in kind of true hospitality to another level where your needs are being exceeded, needs that you didn't even know that needed to be met, are being met.

 

But the beauty of that in terms of hospitality is that once there's, those needs to whatever level. And I think that really goes along the spectrum of luxury to kind of entry-level hotels. But once they're met, that leaves this space for the guest to then be able to feel, to come back to who they are as people.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:51 Rosewood

1:52 Four Seasons

1:52 Virgin

4:03 ACE Hotel

4:06 Home

10:26 Kevin Austerhouse

10:47 Soho House, London

12:40 Six Senses

24:53 Chris Voss

31:48 Coss Marte

32:20 Saks Fifth Avenue

32:44 CONBODY

38:13 Andre Balazs

38:15 William Beaver House

40:27 “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

45:13 ASG

49:14 Citibank

56:59 Mother Teresa 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Designing for the Silver Lining - Lionel Ohayon - Episode # 026 26 26 Designing for the Silver Lining - Lionel Ohayon - Episode # 026 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/c63aa08f-b8ed-3c4f-a533-49a4c86ee1c8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/56420f37 Lionel Ohayon, Founder and CEO of ICRAVE Design, lives by the philosophy of “when one door closes, another door opens.” He has created groundbreaking designs at places like terminal 5 at JFK, as well designing parts of the Memorial Sloan Kettering hospital. Lionel joins host Dan Ryan to share how his life experiences have influenced the way he views and creates #hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Lionel designed terminal 5 for JetBlue at JFK, and when designing it he focused on trying to make people feel comfortable and relaxed with flying. 
  • Hospitality is an ever-growing part of everyday life for people. The interaction between humans can be hospitality and how we perceive it is important.
  • Understanding the essence of hospitality is more important than having the nicest hotel or restaurant.
  • Your paradigm in life shouldn’t be “why me?”, but rather “try me,” facing any issues that come into your life head on and accepting new challenges. 
  • You must be the hero of your own journey. Life can throw unexpected twists your way but it’s important to handle them the right way and see the silver lining.
  • There are great opportunities to profoundly impact our world. With the advancement of technology and virtual reality, these can be used for good to bridge the divide between people.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:10 “I tell clients so often, like I can guild your place in gold, but if you don't understand the essence of hospitality, what the triggers are to make people feel comfortable to, or to allow people, those opportunities to step through the looking glass and learn something new about themselves, right?

To experience color in a way that they haven't because you are leading, you have an expectation about what the emotional response will be. Or what the inputs are of place, that is more about placemaking than about understanding the way things look and feel. I think that hospitality today is critical. It's an ever-growing important piece of the human interaction that we're all concerned about.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:09 Memorial Sloan Kettering

0:59 Stacy Shoemaker

2:48 JetBlue

8:42 Tesla

9:51 Disney Cruise Ships

19:23 Tao

21:18 Crowbar

26:17 St. Jude’s

27:33 St. Luke’s

30:40 Compass Group

31:15 “Why Me?” book by 

44:14 Michael J. Fox

44:18 Doc Hollywood

49:33 The Hotel of Tomorrow

49:44 Oculus

50:10 Ready Player One

50:14 Wall-E

52:15 Ken Burns Civil War documentary


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Lionel Ohayon, Founder and CEO of ICRAVE Design, lives by the philosophy of “when one door closes, another door opens.” He has created groundbreaking designs at places like terminal 5 at JFK, as well designing parts of the Memorial Sloan Kettering hospital. Lionel joins host Dan Ryan to share how his life experiences have influenced the way he views and creates #hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Lionel designed terminal 5 for JetBlue at JFK, and when designing it he focused on trying to make people feel comfortable and relaxed with flying. 
  • Hospitality is an ever-growing part of everyday life for people. The interaction between humans can be hospitality and how we perceive it is important.
  • Understanding the essence of hospitality is more important than having the nicest hotel or restaurant.
  • Your paradigm in life shouldn’t be “why me?”, but rather “try me,” facing any issues that come into your life head on and accepting new challenges. 
  • You must be the hero of your own journey. Life can throw unexpected twists your way but it’s important to handle them the right way and see the silver lining.
  • There are great opportunities to profoundly impact our world. With the advancement of technology and virtual reality, these can be used for good to bridge the divide between people.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:10 “I tell clients so often, like I can guild your place in gold, but if you don't understand the essence of hospitality, what the triggers are to make people feel comfortable to, or to allow people, those opportunities to step through the looking glass and learn something new about themselves, right?

To experience color in a way that they haven't because you are leading, you have an expectation about what the emotional response will be. Or what the inputs are of place, that is more about placemaking than about understanding the way things look and feel. I think that hospitality today is critical. It's an ever-growing important piece of the human interaction that we're all concerned about.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:09 Memorial Sloan Kettering

0:59 Stacy Shoemaker

2:48 JetBlue

8:42 Tesla

9:51 Disney Cruise Ships

19:23 Tao

21:18 Crowbar

26:17 St. Jude’s

27:33 St. Luke’s

30:40 Compass Group

31:15 “Why Me?” book by 

44:14 Michael J. Fox

44:18 Doc Hollywood

49:33 The Hotel of Tomorrow

49:44 Oculus

50:10 Ready Player One

50:14 Wall-E

52:15 Ken Burns Civil War documentary


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 24 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3909 Lionel Ohayon, Founder and CEO of ICRAVE Design, lives by the philosophy of “when one door closes, another door opens.” He has created groundbreaking designs at places like terminal 5 at JFK, as well designing parts of the Memorial Sloan Kettering hospital. Lionel joins host Dan Ryan to share how his life experiences have influenced the way he views and creates #hospitality.


Takeaways: 

 

  • Lionel designed terminal 5 for JetBlue at JFK, and when designing it he focused on trying to make people feel comfortable and relaxed with flying. 
  • Hospitality is an ever-growing part of everyday life for people. The interaction between humans can be hospitality and how we perceive it is important.
  • Understanding the essence of hospitality is more important than having the nicest hotel or restaurant.
  • Your paradigm in life shouldn’t be “why me?”, but rather “try me,” facing any issues that come into your life head on and accepting new challenges. 
  • You must be the hero of your own journey. Life can throw unexpected twists your way but it’s important to handle them the right way and see the silver lining.
  • There are great opportunities to profoundly impact our world. With the advancement of technology and virtual reality, these can be used for good to bridge the divide between people.


Quote of the Show:

 

13:10 “I tell clients so often, like I can guild your place in gold, but if you don't understand the essence of hospitality, what the triggers are to make people feel comfortable to, or to allow people, those opportunities to step through the looking glass and learn something new about themselves, right?

To experience color in a way that they haven't because you are leading, you have an expectation about what the emotional response will be. Or what the inputs are of place, that is more about placemaking than about understanding the way things look and feel. I think that hospitality today is critical. It's an ever-growing important piece of the human interaction that we're all concerned about.”


Links:


Shout Outs:

0:09 Memorial Sloan Kettering

0:59 Stacy Shoemaker

2:48 JetBlue

8:42 Tesla

9:51 Disney Cruise Ships

19:23 Tao

21:18 Crowbar

26:17 St. Jude’s

27:33 St. Luke’s

30:40 Compass Group

31:15 “Why Me?” book by 

44:14 Michael J. Fox

44:18 Doc Hollywood

49:33 The Hotel of Tomorrow

49:44 Oculus

50:10 Ready Player One

50:14 Wall-E

52:15 Ken Burns Civil War documentary


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Putting Energy into Hospitality - Natalya Berdikyan - Episode # 025 25 25 Putting Energy into Hospitality - Natalya Berdikyan - Episode # 025 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/668ab50b-fe78-3f31-bbe7-2ec6c17f0b1e https://share.transistor.fm/s/a08da19a The most valuable asset anyone has is time, but you also need the energy to use that time. Today’s guest learned this after feeling burnt out after years of working at a chocolate production business in Belgium. Natalya Berdikyan is an energy coach, teaching people how to properly take advantage of their energy and put it to their best use. She is also the founder of Life By Design Academy. Listen as she joins host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Everyone likes the feeling of home away from home, and that is a key part of providing a great hospitality experience.
  • Energy attracts both the positive and negative feelings of the place and people around you. 
  • You need to be aware of yourself, where you are and the other people you are with. These all play a big role in the energy you are feeling. 
  • Taking a step back and taking a deep breath can help clear your mind if you are feeling out of sorts. 
  • Don’t take anything personally, don’t judge yourself and don’t judge others. These are tips that will help you keep your energy in a positive direction. 
  • To get ourselves out of a low energy situation we need to understand why we are in that kind of situation in the first place. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:18 “We are all being served one way or another from which gives me, gets me to that definition. Feeling comfortable being supported, being heard and being understood, whether it is at the hotel or the restaurant at the hospital, at the airport, at the airplane, it's making people feel comfortable.

And then we have a beautiful phrase, feeling home away from home. That's great. What if you're on the way and you are feeling in the space of comfort and of being like you not being stressed and frustrated that you're on the way somewhere. I would also find as the hospitality part.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

13:36 Pick You Ups

19:54 Bruce Schneider

19:56 Energy Leadership Methodology 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> The most valuable asset anyone has is time, but you also need the energy to use that time. Today’s guest learned this after feeling burnt out after years of working at a chocolate production business in Belgium. Natalya Berdikyan is an energy coach, teaching people how to properly take advantage of their energy and put it to their best use. She is also the founder of Life By Design Academy. Listen as she joins host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Everyone likes the feeling of home away from home, and that is a key part of providing a great hospitality experience.
  • Energy attracts both the positive and negative feelings of the place and people around you. 
  • You need to be aware of yourself, where you are and the other people you are with. These all play a big role in the energy you are feeling. 
  • Taking a step back and taking a deep breath can help clear your mind if you are feeling out of sorts. 
  • Don’t take anything personally, don’t judge yourself and don’t judge others. These are tips that will help you keep your energy in a positive direction. 
  • To get ourselves out of a low energy situation we need to understand why we are in that kind of situation in the first place. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:18 “We are all being served one way or another from which gives me, gets me to that definition. Feeling comfortable being supported, being heard and being understood, whether it is at the hotel or the restaurant at the hospital, at the airport, at the airplane, it's making people feel comfortable.

And then we have a beautiful phrase, feeling home away from home. That's great. What if you're on the way and you are feeling in the space of comfort and of being like you not being stressed and frustrated that you're on the way somewhere. I would also find as the hospitality part.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

13:36 Pick You Ups

19:54 Bruce Schneider

19:56 Energy Leadership Methodology 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 19 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2353 The most valuable asset anyone has is time, but you also need the energy to use that time. Today’s guest learned this after feeling burnt out after years of working at a chocolate production business in Belgium. Natalya Berdikyan is an energy coach, teaching people how to properly take advantage of their energy and put it to their best use. She is also the founder of Life By Design Academy. Listen as she joins host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • Everyone likes the feeling of home away from home, and that is a key part of providing a great hospitality experience.
  • Energy attracts both the positive and negative feelings of the place and people around you. 
  • You need to be aware of yourself, where you are and the other people you are with. These all play a big role in the energy you are feeling. 
  • Taking a step back and taking a deep breath can help clear your mind if you are feeling out of sorts. 
  • Don’t take anything personally, don’t judge yourself and don’t judge others. These are tips that will help you keep your energy in a positive direction. 
  • To get ourselves out of a low energy situation we need to understand why we are in that kind of situation in the first place. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:18 “We are all being served one way or another from which gives me, gets me to that definition. Feeling comfortable being supported, being heard and being understood, whether it is at the hotel or the restaurant at the hospital, at the airport, at the airplane, it's making people feel comfortable.

And then we have a beautiful phrase, feeling home away from home. That's great. What if you're on the way and you are feeling in the space of comfort and of being like you not being stressed and frustrated that you're on the way somewhere. I would also find as the hospitality part.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

 

13:36 Pick You Ups

19:54 Bruce Schneider

19:56 Energy Leadership Methodology 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality is a Feeling - Damon Lawrence - Episode # 024 24 24 Hospitality is a Feeling - Damon Lawrence - Episode # 024 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/0e72448e-f734-32b4-98dc-1ced8776084d https://share.transistor.fm/s/ecdc83e6 The hospitality industry is incredibly diverse as a whole, but not when it comes to the higher up positions. That’s what today’s guest wants to change for the better. Damon Lawrence, the Co-Founder of Homage Hospitality, is working with Howard University to create an outstanding hospitality program at his alma mater, Howard University.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is a labor shortage in the hospitality industry because it’s not an employee centric industry. Employees work long hours and went from seeing no one in a pandemic to being face to face with guests again.
  • Hospitality is a feeling you give to your guests. Whether they are in your hotel, restaurant or even your home, it is all about how you treat the guests and put them in a position to succeed.
  • It’s important to have conversations regarding race in the country. To make a positive change in the world, it starts with what might be an uncomfortable conversation for most. 
  • There needs to be more African American hotel owners and developers. To help achieve this, Damon is working on building up the hospitality program at Howard University.
  • The hospitality industry is very diverse as a whole, but most of the diversity is sitting at the very bottom. The low entry, hourly jobs are the most diverse, and the further you go up the more the diversity dwindles.
  • If people listen, take notice, and then take action that could cure a lot of ills in the hospitality industry. This could also benefit society at large. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:58 “Hospitality really is a feeling. What I've always noticed,whether it's traveling or I'll be working in this space, is how do you make somebody feel when they enter into your space or a space that you have dominion over?

Just because you are a hospitality brand doesn't mean that you wouldn't exude or create a hospitable experience. So hospitality really is how you make people feel. Whether they're dining at your restaurant or dining at your home. Like I said before, understanding what everyone goes through and making sure that you can put people in the best position to succeed, creates that hospitality experience that you want to provide to your consumers.” 

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

1:11 Thompson Hotel

1:34 Jason Pomerantz

1:35 Stephen Brandman

1:57 St. Regis

1:59 Ritz Carlton

2:00 Four Seasons

3:33 Craigslist

10:33 Howard University

10:49 University of Louisiana, Lafayette

11:33 Mardi Gras

12:20 Halle Berry

12:22 Paula Patton

19:27 Independent Lodging Congress

20:14 Arne Sorenson foundation

20:17 Marriott foundation

23:28 ALIS Conference

25:21 Determine by Design

25: 24 Kia Weatherspoon

36:00 LGBTQ

51:39 HDAC (Hospitality Diversity Action Council)

52:58 Bashar Wali

53:00 Nina Grondin

53:03 Aaron Anderson

53:07 Stacy Shoemaker


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> The hospitality industry is incredibly diverse as a whole, but not when it comes to the higher up positions. That’s what today’s guest wants to change for the better. Damon Lawrence, the Co-Founder of Homage Hospitality, is working with Howard University to create an outstanding hospitality program at his alma mater, Howard University.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is a labor shortage in the hospitality industry because it’s not an employee centric industry. Employees work long hours and went from seeing no one in a pandemic to being face to face with guests again.
  • Hospitality is a feeling you give to your guests. Whether they are in your hotel, restaurant or even your home, it is all about how you treat the guests and put them in a position to succeed.
  • It’s important to have conversations regarding race in the country. To make a positive change in the world, it starts with what might be an uncomfortable conversation for most. 
  • There needs to be more African American hotel owners and developers. To help achieve this, Damon is working on building up the hospitality program at Howard University.
  • The hospitality industry is very diverse as a whole, but most of the diversity is sitting at the very bottom. The low entry, hourly jobs are the most diverse, and the further you go up the more the diversity dwindles.
  • If people listen, take notice, and then take action that could cure a lot of ills in the hospitality industry. This could also benefit society at large. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:58 “Hospitality really is a feeling. What I've always noticed,whether it's traveling or I'll be working in this space, is how do you make somebody feel when they enter into your space or a space that you have dominion over?

Just because you are a hospitality brand doesn't mean that you wouldn't exude or create a hospitable experience. So hospitality really is how you make people feel. Whether they're dining at your restaurant or dining at your home. Like I said before, understanding what everyone goes through and making sure that you can put people in the best position to succeed, creates that hospitality experience that you want to provide to your consumers.” 

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

1:11 Thompson Hotel

1:34 Jason Pomerantz

1:35 Stephen Brandman

1:57 St. Regis

1:59 Ritz Carlton

2:00 Four Seasons

3:33 Craigslist

10:33 Howard University

10:49 University of Louisiana, Lafayette

11:33 Mardi Gras

12:20 Halle Berry

12:22 Paula Patton

19:27 Independent Lodging Congress

20:14 Arne Sorenson foundation

20:17 Marriott foundation

23:28 ALIS Conference

25:21 Determine by Design

25: 24 Kia Weatherspoon

36:00 LGBTQ

51:39 HDAC (Hospitality Diversity Action Council)

52:58 Bashar Wali

53:00 Nina Grondin

53:03 Aaron Anderson

53:07 Stacy Shoemaker


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 17 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3544 The hospitality industry is incredibly diverse as a whole, but not when it comes to the higher up positions. That’s what today’s guest wants to change for the better. Damon Lawrence, the Co-Founder of Homage Hospitality, is working with Howard University to create an outstanding hospitality program at his alma mater, Howard University.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is a labor shortage in the hospitality industry because it’s not an employee centric industry. Employees work long hours and went from seeing no one in a pandemic to being face to face with guests again.
  • Hospitality is a feeling you give to your guests. Whether they are in your hotel, restaurant or even your home, it is all about how you treat the guests and put them in a position to succeed.
  • It’s important to have conversations regarding race in the country. To make a positive change in the world, it starts with what might be an uncomfortable conversation for most. 
  • There needs to be more African American hotel owners and developers. To help achieve this, Damon is working on building up the hospitality program at Howard University.
  • The hospitality industry is very diverse as a whole, but most of the diversity is sitting at the very bottom. The low entry, hourly jobs are the most diverse, and the further you go up the more the diversity dwindles.
  • If people listen, take notice, and then take action that could cure a lot of ills in the hospitality industry. This could also benefit society at large. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:58 “Hospitality really is a feeling. What I've always noticed,whether it's traveling or I'll be working in this space, is how do you make somebody feel when they enter into your space or a space that you have dominion over?

Just because you are a hospitality brand doesn't mean that you wouldn't exude or create a hospitable experience. So hospitality really is how you make people feel. Whether they're dining at your restaurant or dining at your home. Like I said before, understanding what everyone goes through and making sure that you can put people in the best position to succeed, creates that hospitality experience that you want to provide to your consumers.” 

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

1:11 Thompson Hotel

1:34 Jason Pomerantz

1:35 Stephen Brandman

1:57 St. Regis

1:59 Ritz Carlton

2:00 Four Seasons

3:33 Craigslist

10:33 Howard University

10:49 University of Louisiana, Lafayette

11:33 Mardi Gras

12:20 Halle Berry

12:22 Paula Patton

19:27 Independent Lodging Congress

20:14 Arne Sorenson foundation

20:17 Marriott foundation

23:28 ALIS Conference

25:21 Determine by Design

25: 24 Kia Weatherspoon

36:00 LGBTQ

51:39 HDAC (Hospitality Diversity Action Council)

52:58 Bashar Wali

53:00 Nina Grondin

53:03 Aaron Anderson

53:07 Stacy Shoemaker


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Building a Community - Jason Caldwell - Episode # 023 23 23 Building a Community - Jason Caldwell - Episode # 023 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/e04eee28-8ca1-345d-8cbe-3d8e85ef63d3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/aaf8f131 Jason Caldwell is the definition of an adventurer. He’s rowed across the Atlantic ocean twice, setting a world record on one run, and the Pacific Ocean setting a world record for the fastest time as well. He's trekked through the oldest desert in the world. Caldwell, CEO and Founder of Latitude 35 Leadership and author of “What IF”, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experiences with cross ocean rowing and how that has influenced his view on leadership and hospitality. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t always about the place you are staying or eating. It’s about creating a positive feeling for your guest or those who are around you, making them feel comfortable.
  • Ocean rowing requires four people in a 30 ft fiberglass rowboat. On the trip where Jason broke the world record across the Atlantic, two of the four teammates had to leave the race only 600 miles in, with 2,400 miles left to go.
  • Jason created a comfortable environment in an uncomfortable rowboat situation by playing to his co-passengers' strengths.
  • Having quick, daily meetings with your team helps your team to feel connected to the leader and also feel valued. 
  • There is a difference between being a leader and being a captain. A leader works with the team, while a captain is the one to give the orders to a team. 
  • When leading a team, you don’t want your co-workers or teammates to dread working for you, you want them to feel grateful to working alongside you.


Quote of the Show:

 

3:30 “When I think of hospitality, I'm thinking from my experiences at hotels, at restaurants and that stuff. I'm always the person who's being catered to. For me, the definition of hospitality is really ways that I can create a level of comfort, whether that's a physical comfort, mental comfort, or an emotional comfort for people in my world. My people are my teammates and as leaders of these teams that row across oceans and do all these extremely dangerous and endurance driven things and incredibly difficult, I have kind of the burden, but also the opportunity and privilege to find different ways that I can create that comfort.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:13 Hospitality Design Summit in Lake Tahoe

23:57 Verne Harnish

24:01 Rockefeller Habits, book by Verne Harnish

30:55 Sonoma State

31:05 Vesper Boat House

31:32 Yale

31:32 Princeton

31:34 Dartmouth

42:41 JFK

52:07 Herman Melvile

52:09 Moby Dick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Jason Caldwell is the definition of an adventurer. He’s rowed across the Atlantic ocean twice, setting a world record on one run, and the Pacific Ocean setting a world record for the fastest time as well. He's trekked through the oldest desert in the world. Caldwell, CEO and Founder of Latitude 35 Leadership and author of “What IF”, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experiences with cross ocean rowing and how that has influenced his view on leadership and hospitality. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t always about the place you are staying or eating. It’s about creating a positive feeling for your guest or those who are around you, making them feel comfortable.
  • Ocean rowing requires four people in a 30 ft fiberglass rowboat. On the trip where Jason broke the world record across the Atlantic, two of the four teammates had to leave the race only 600 miles in, with 2,400 miles left to go.
  • Jason created a comfortable environment in an uncomfortable rowboat situation by playing to his co-passengers' strengths.
  • Having quick, daily meetings with your team helps your team to feel connected to the leader and also feel valued. 
  • There is a difference between being a leader and being a captain. A leader works with the team, while a captain is the one to give the orders to a team. 
  • When leading a team, you don’t want your co-workers or teammates to dread working for you, you want them to feel grateful to working alongside you.


Quote of the Show:

 

3:30 “When I think of hospitality, I'm thinking from my experiences at hotels, at restaurants and that stuff. I'm always the person who's being catered to. For me, the definition of hospitality is really ways that I can create a level of comfort, whether that's a physical comfort, mental comfort, or an emotional comfort for people in my world. My people are my teammates and as leaders of these teams that row across oceans and do all these extremely dangerous and endurance driven things and incredibly difficult, I have kind of the burden, but also the opportunity and privilege to find different ways that I can create that comfort.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:13 Hospitality Design Summit in Lake Tahoe

23:57 Verne Harnish

24:01 Rockefeller Habits, book by Verne Harnish

30:55 Sonoma State

31:05 Vesper Boat House

31:32 Yale

31:32 Princeton

31:34 Dartmouth

42:41 JFK

52:07 Herman Melvile

52:09 Moby Dick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 12 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3688 Jason Caldwell is the definition of an adventurer. He’s rowed across the Atlantic ocean twice, setting a world record on one run, and the Pacific Ocean setting a world record for the fastest time as well. He's trekked through the oldest desert in the world. Caldwell, CEO and Founder of Latitude 35 Leadership and author of “What IF”, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about his experiences with cross ocean rowing and how that has influenced his view on leadership and hospitality. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t always about the place you are staying or eating. It’s about creating a positive feeling for your guest or those who are around you, making them feel comfortable.
  • Ocean rowing requires four people in a 30 ft fiberglass rowboat. On the trip where Jason broke the world record across the Atlantic, two of the four teammates had to leave the race only 600 miles in, with 2,400 miles left to go.
  • Jason created a comfortable environment in an uncomfortable rowboat situation by playing to his co-passengers' strengths.
  • Having quick, daily meetings with your team helps your team to feel connected to the leader and also feel valued. 
  • There is a difference between being a leader and being a captain. A leader works with the team, while a captain is the one to give the orders to a team. 
  • When leading a team, you don’t want your co-workers or teammates to dread working for you, you want them to feel grateful to working alongside you.


Quote of the Show:

 

3:30 “When I think of hospitality, I'm thinking from my experiences at hotels, at restaurants and that stuff. I'm always the person who's being catered to. For me, the definition of hospitality is really ways that I can create a level of comfort, whether that's a physical comfort, mental comfort, or an emotional comfort for people in my world. My people are my teammates and as leaders of these teams that row across oceans and do all these extremely dangerous and endurance driven things and incredibly difficult, I have kind of the burden, but also the opportunity and privilege to find different ways that I can create that comfort.”

 

 

Links:


Shout Outs:

1:13 Hospitality Design Summit in Lake Tahoe

23:57 Verne Harnish

24:01 Rockefeller Habits, book by Verne Harnish

30:55 Sonoma State

31:05 Vesper Boat House

31:32 Yale

31:32 Princeton

31:34 Dartmouth

42:41 JFK

52:07 Herman Melvile

52:09 Moby Dick


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Glue That Bonds Us - Stacy Shoemaker Rauen - Episode # 022 22 22 The Glue That Bonds Us - Stacy Shoemaker Rauen - Episode # 022 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/7169c23e-ae5c-31e4-9722-d9a6d86053ae https://share.transistor.fm/s/3e2aeaff Stacy Shoemaker Rauen advocates that great hospitality isn’t just about great design, it’s also a necessity for our overall well-being. By designing buildings in certain ways, this can help lead us to make healthier and more productive changes in our lives. Rauen is the Editor in Chief of Hospitality Design Magazine, as well as the Senior Vice President at Design Group at Emerald. Listen as she sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • In hospitality, you want to be the glue that holds people together, but not the force that binds it. 
  • The root of hospitality is inviting people into your home or your kitchen, so the best hospitality is making your guest feel like it is an extension of your home.
  • Sleep and taking care of our health are very important and these goals can be achieved in new and different ways through unique hotels and building environments that place an emphasis on these matters.
  • The hospitality industry is having an incredible impact on plenty of other industries for the better, and it is now an industry that is having a great moment.
  • Stacy helped bring more diverse voices and writing to Hospitality Design magazine in an effort to showcase the diversity in our world. 
  • One small action can have a massive ripple effect. The start to a positive change begins with a small start and a small idea. You don’t have to take on everything, you just have to take on one thing.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:36 “For me, hospitality is going back to what hospitality started as, right? It’s hotels used to be owned by individual people and it was an extension of their home. It was inviting you in. Restaurants were run by usually a family, or one individual, and it was opening up their kitchen to people.

So to me, the best hospitality, and obviously it has evolved and changed in so many ways. But I think when you go back to the true definition of what hospitality is, and that is an extension of somebody's home, that you are inviting them in to experience something that is different or greater than what they've experienced elsewhere.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:32 Jason Goldberg

2:32 Michael Adams

3:42 Hospitality Design Podcast 

8:44 HD Expo

8:56 Rachel Long

11:28 BDNY

13:25 The Well

13:37 A bearish

16:03 Equinox

16:25 Six Senses

16:27 Jacobs CEO

17:53 One Medical

18:29 BHDM

18:50 Rockwell

19:13 Lionel from iCrave

19:16 Sloan Kettering

19:50 Susan Healey 

23:19 HDAC

23:46 George Floyd

23:47 Black Lives Matter

25:05 Couture

27:16 NEWH

28:13 Curioso

29:41 Bashar Wali

29:43 Damon Lawrence

29:44 Nina Grondin

29:45 Aaron Anderson

33:04 Cheryl Doris

33:31 Melville Wilson

36:49 Marie Brenner

36:58 TIME magazine

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Stacy Shoemaker Rauen advocates that great hospitality isn’t just about great design, it’s also a necessity for our overall well-being. By designing buildings in certain ways, this can help lead us to make healthier and more productive changes in our lives. Rauen is the Editor in Chief of Hospitality Design Magazine, as well as the Senior Vice President at Design Group at Emerald. Listen as she sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • In hospitality, you want to be the glue that holds people together, but not the force that binds it. 
  • The root of hospitality is inviting people into your home or your kitchen, so the best hospitality is making your guest feel like it is an extension of your home.
  • Sleep and taking care of our health are very important and these goals can be achieved in new and different ways through unique hotels and building environments that place an emphasis on these matters.
  • The hospitality industry is having an incredible impact on plenty of other industries for the better, and it is now an industry that is having a great moment.
  • Stacy helped bring more diverse voices and writing to Hospitality Design magazine in an effort to showcase the diversity in our world. 
  • One small action can have a massive ripple effect. The start to a positive change begins with a small start and a small idea. You don’t have to take on everything, you just have to take on one thing.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:36 “For me, hospitality is going back to what hospitality started as, right? It’s hotels used to be owned by individual people and it was an extension of their home. It was inviting you in. Restaurants were run by usually a family, or one individual, and it was opening up their kitchen to people.

So to me, the best hospitality, and obviously it has evolved and changed in so many ways. But I think when you go back to the true definition of what hospitality is, and that is an extension of somebody's home, that you are inviting them in to experience something that is different or greater than what they've experienced elsewhere.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:32 Jason Goldberg

2:32 Michael Adams

3:42 Hospitality Design Podcast 

8:44 HD Expo

8:56 Rachel Long

11:28 BDNY

13:25 The Well

13:37 A bearish

16:03 Equinox

16:25 Six Senses

16:27 Jacobs CEO

17:53 One Medical

18:29 BHDM

18:50 Rockwell

19:13 Lionel from iCrave

19:16 Sloan Kettering

19:50 Susan Healey 

23:19 HDAC

23:46 George Floyd

23:47 Black Lives Matter

25:05 Couture

27:16 NEWH

28:13 Curioso

29:41 Bashar Wali

29:43 Damon Lawrence

29:44 Nina Grondin

29:45 Aaron Anderson

33:04 Cheryl Doris

33:31 Melville Wilson

36:49 Marie Brenner

36:58 TIME magazine

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 10 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2450 Stacy Shoemaker Rauen advocates that great hospitality isn’t just about great design, it’s also a necessity for our overall well-being. By designing buildings in certain ways, this can help lead us to make healthier and more productive changes in our lives. Rauen is the Editor in Chief of Hospitality Design Magazine, as well as the Senior Vice President at Design Group at Emerald. Listen as she sits down with host Dan Ryan to share her thoughts on #hospitality today!


Takeaways: 

 

  • In hospitality, you want to be the glue that holds people together, but not the force that binds it. 
  • The root of hospitality is inviting people into your home or your kitchen, so the best hospitality is making your guest feel like it is an extension of your home.
  • Sleep and taking care of our health are very important and these goals can be achieved in new and different ways through unique hotels and building environments that place an emphasis on these matters.
  • The hospitality industry is having an incredible impact on plenty of other industries for the better, and it is now an industry that is having a great moment.
  • Stacy helped bring more diverse voices and writing to Hospitality Design magazine in an effort to showcase the diversity in our world. 
  • One small action can have a massive ripple effect. The start to a positive change begins with a small start and a small idea. You don’t have to take on everything, you just have to take on one thing.


Quote of the Show:

 

9:36 “For me, hospitality is going back to what hospitality started as, right? It’s hotels used to be owned by individual people and it was an extension of their home. It was inviting you in. Restaurants were run by usually a family, or one individual, and it was opening up their kitchen to people.

So to me, the best hospitality, and obviously it has evolved and changed in so many ways. But I think when you go back to the true definition of what hospitality is, and that is an extension of somebody's home, that you are inviting them in to experience something that is different or greater than what they've experienced elsewhere.”


Links:

 

 

Shout Outs:

 

1:32 Jason Goldberg

2:32 Michael Adams

3:42 Hospitality Design Podcast 

8:44 HD Expo

8:56 Rachel Long

11:28 BDNY

13:25 The Well

13:37 A bearish

16:03 Equinox

16:25 Six Senses

16:27 Jacobs CEO

17:53 One Medical

18:29 BHDM

18:50 Rockwell

19:13 Lionel from iCrave

19:16 Sloan Kettering

19:50 Susan Healey 

23:19 HDAC

23:46 George Floyd

23:47 Black Lives Matter

25:05 Couture

27:16 NEWH

28:13 Curioso

29:41 Bashar Wali

29:43 Damon Lawrence

29:44 Nina Grondin

29:45 Aaron Anderson

33:04 Cheryl Doris

33:31 Melville Wilson

36:49 Marie Brenner

36:58 TIME magazine

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Book of Hospitality - Brigette Breitenbach - Episode # 021 21 21 The Book of Hospitality - Brigette Breitenbach - Episode # 021 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6f2c2ab5-363e-30f9-8869-3e3e5f6363fa https://share.transistor.fm/s/db51b16f Being a hotelier wasn’t always the goal for Brigette Breitenbach. Back in 2006, one of her clients came to her and asked if she could do some branding for a new hotel that was being opened, and she never looked back. Brigette, now the owner and founder of B&Co as well as an owner of the Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t a service, it is to meaningfully care for the guests. It’s all about trying to make the guest feel cared for.
  • It’s important to know what your guests want. Understanding their wants and needs can help to establish your brand. The market and the guests will tell you what they want.
  • The younger generation spends more money on travel and experiences more so than previous generations.
  • Hotels are like a book, you need to have a compelling story, but every chapter also needs to make sense.
  • The best hotels are the ones that offer a variety of different experiences within one space. 
  • If you are struggling with something, it’s always better to say that. If you’re willing to do that, it can help with client relationships and staff relationships.
  • Sometimes we are defined by the business we don’t take. Sometimes saying no to business can help make sure your staff isn’t overwhelmed.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:24:  “All of our projects start with a discovery phase and we tell all of our clients that with the exception of a few markets, we don't know their market. We don't know the city that they're from. We don't know the local community.

And so we start to dig in and we almost come at every project with the perspective of being the guest. And so we try to dig in and we understand kind of what's happening in that market. What's new and exciting. And then we really drill down to, okay, who do you think your target audience is? Who are you building this property for?

Or rebranding it for? Because until you define their passions, interests and values really don't know what you're going for. And so to understand that market and guest exploration piece of the puzzle,  you're never going to get to the foundational brand. So it really starts with who are you trying to please.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

0:25 Independent Lodging Congress

10:52 The Iron Horse Hotel

10:58 Lehman Brothers

11:11 Hilltop

29:53 Bashar Wali

30:22 Andrew Friendly 

31:57 Jason Caldwell

32:10 David Rockwell


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Being a hotelier wasn’t always the goal for Brigette Breitenbach. Back in 2006, one of her clients came to her and asked if she could do some branding for a new hotel that was being opened, and she never looked back. Brigette, now the owner and founder of B&Co as well as an owner of the Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t a service, it is to meaningfully care for the guests. It’s all about trying to make the guest feel cared for.
  • It’s important to know what your guests want. Understanding their wants and needs can help to establish your brand. The market and the guests will tell you what they want.
  • The younger generation spends more money on travel and experiences more so than previous generations.
  • Hotels are like a book, you need to have a compelling story, but every chapter also needs to make sense.
  • The best hotels are the ones that offer a variety of different experiences within one space. 
  • If you are struggling with something, it’s always better to say that. If you’re willing to do that, it can help with client relationships and staff relationships.
  • Sometimes we are defined by the business we don’t take. Sometimes saying no to business can help make sure your staff isn’t overwhelmed.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:24:  “All of our projects start with a discovery phase and we tell all of our clients that with the exception of a few markets, we don't know their market. We don't know the city that they're from. We don't know the local community.

And so we start to dig in and we almost come at every project with the perspective of being the guest. And so we try to dig in and we understand kind of what's happening in that market. What's new and exciting. And then we really drill down to, okay, who do you think your target audience is? Who are you building this property for?

Or rebranding it for? Because until you define their passions, interests and values really don't know what you're going for. And so to understand that market and guest exploration piece of the puzzle,  you're never going to get to the foundational brand. So it really starts with who are you trying to please.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

0:25 Independent Lodging Congress

10:52 The Iron Horse Hotel

10:58 Lehman Brothers

11:11 Hilltop

29:53 Bashar Wali

30:22 Andrew Friendly 

31:57 Jason Caldwell

32:10 David Rockwell


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 05 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3112 Being a hotelier wasn’t always the goal for Brigette Breitenbach. Back in 2006, one of her clients came to her and asked if she could do some branding for a new hotel that was being opened, and she never looked back. Brigette, now the owner and founder of B&Co as well as an owner of the Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, joins host Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to her. 


Takeaways: 

 

  • Hospitality isn’t a service, it is to meaningfully care for the guests. It’s all about trying to make the guest feel cared for.
  • It’s important to know what your guests want. Understanding their wants and needs can help to establish your brand. The market and the guests will tell you what they want.
  • The younger generation spends more money on travel and experiences more so than previous generations.
  • Hotels are like a book, you need to have a compelling story, but every chapter also needs to make sense.
  • The best hotels are the ones that offer a variety of different experiences within one space. 
  • If you are struggling with something, it’s always better to say that. If you’re willing to do that, it can help with client relationships and staff relationships.
  • Sometimes we are defined by the business we don’t take. Sometimes saying no to business can help make sure your staff isn’t overwhelmed.


Quote of the Show:

 

2:24:  “All of our projects start with a discovery phase and we tell all of our clients that with the exception of a few markets, we don't know their market. We don't know the city that they're from. We don't know the local community.

And so we start to dig in and we almost come at every project with the perspective of being the guest. And so we try to dig in and we understand kind of what's happening in that market. What's new and exciting. And then we really drill down to, okay, who do you think your target audience is? Who are you building this property for?

Or rebranding it for? Because until you define their passions, interests and values really don't know what you're going for. And so to understand that market and guest exploration piece of the puzzle,  you're never going to get to the foundational brand. So it really starts with who are you trying to please.”


Links:

 


Shout Outs:

0:25 Independent Lodging Congress

10:52 The Iron Horse Hotel

10:58 Lehman Brothers

11:11 Hilltop

29:53 Bashar Wali

30:22 Andrew Friendly 

31:57 Jason Caldwell

32:10 David Rockwell


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Growing the Community - Nina Grondin - Episode # 020 20 20 Growing the Community - Nina Grondin - Episode # 020 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1611efbe-cf67-3859-b11f-fa51a6e61632 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7f457f85 Creating a welcoming environment in a hotel or bar is a purposeful endeavor. Nina Grondin, Founder and Partner of Curioso, has created a collective where people such as architects, artists, interior designs and more work together to create meaningful experiences through design. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality isn’t confined to just hotels and bars. It covers a wide range of topics. The basis of hospitality is one person attending to the needs of another. 
  • As humans we crave love and attention. It’s important in hospitality to feed those human needs and make sure the guest feels comfortable and seen.
  • In hospitality, you are offering a service but more importantly you are anticipating someone’s needs. This creates deep connections with the guests.
  • It’s important to listen to the community where you plan to put hotels or a hospitality business. Those in the community can tell you what they want and what they think would fit in.
  • To create change, it’s important to start with having a conversation about how to be more inclusive. This applies to more than just hospitality, but all industries. 
  • Don’t lose sight of what drives you and gets you motivated throughout the day. We all get so busy in our daily lives but it’s important to keep your motivation and your passion alive. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

1:50 “When I think about hospitality, it's really one person attending to the needs of another person, but doing it with thoughtful intention and doing it in a way that makes them feel welcome. It makes them feel appreciated. It makes them feel seen. And it's really about that human connection. And so it's not really defined or confined to hotels and restaurants and bars, but really at any place where humans reside. And I think that ability to really make one another feel good and feel appreciated, that's what hospitality is all about.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

14:42 Instagram

17:48 El Paso, TX

18:54 Beto O'Rourke

20:37 Detroit, MI

23:20 HDAC: Hospitality Diversity Action Council

23:41 Stacy Shoemaker

23:49 George Floyd

24:07 Bershard

27:10 Hoffman Institute 

27:37 HD Expo

27:48 Carlos Herrera

28:23 Damon Lawrence

28:30 Erin Anderson

28:55 LGBTQ

29:48 Independent Lodging Congress

31:58 Marquise Stillwell

36:13 Holiday Inns

36:15 Hampton Hotels

43:24 Dan Pierce


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Creating a welcoming environment in a hotel or bar is a purposeful endeavor. Nina Grondin, Founder and Partner of Curioso, has created a collective where people such as architects, artists, interior designs and more work together to create meaningful experiences through design. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality isn’t confined to just hotels and bars. It covers a wide range of topics. The basis of hospitality is one person attending to the needs of another. 
  • As humans we crave love and attention. It’s important in hospitality to feed those human needs and make sure the guest feels comfortable and seen.
  • In hospitality, you are offering a service but more importantly you are anticipating someone’s needs. This creates deep connections with the guests.
  • It’s important to listen to the community where you plan to put hotels or a hospitality business. Those in the community can tell you what they want and what they think would fit in.
  • To create change, it’s important to start with having a conversation about how to be more inclusive. This applies to more than just hospitality, but all industries. 
  • Don’t lose sight of what drives you and gets you motivated throughout the day. We all get so busy in our daily lives but it’s important to keep your motivation and your passion alive. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

1:50 “When I think about hospitality, it's really one person attending to the needs of another person, but doing it with thoughtful intention and doing it in a way that makes them feel welcome. It makes them feel appreciated. It makes them feel seen. And it's really about that human connection. And so it's not really defined or confined to hotels and restaurants and bars, but really at any place where humans reside. And I think that ability to really make one another feel good and feel appreciated, that's what hospitality is all about.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

14:42 Instagram

17:48 El Paso, TX

18:54 Beto O'Rourke

20:37 Detroit, MI

23:20 HDAC: Hospitality Diversity Action Council

23:41 Stacy Shoemaker

23:49 George Floyd

24:07 Bershard

27:10 Hoffman Institute 

27:37 HD Expo

27:48 Carlos Herrera

28:23 Damon Lawrence

28:30 Erin Anderson

28:55 LGBTQ

29:48 Independent Lodging Congress

31:58 Marquise Stillwell

36:13 Holiday Inns

36:15 Hampton Hotels

43:24 Dan Pierce


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3262 Creating a welcoming environment in a hotel or bar is a purposeful endeavor. Nina Grondin, Founder and Partner of Curioso, has created a collective where people such as architects, artists, interior designs and more work together to create meaningful experiences through design. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality isn’t confined to just hotels and bars. It covers a wide range of topics. The basis of hospitality is one person attending to the needs of another. 
  • As humans we crave love and attention. It’s important in hospitality to feed those human needs and make sure the guest feels comfortable and seen.
  • In hospitality, you are offering a service but more importantly you are anticipating someone’s needs. This creates deep connections with the guests.
  • It’s important to listen to the community where you plan to put hotels or a hospitality business. Those in the community can tell you what they want and what they think would fit in.
  • To create change, it’s important to start with having a conversation about how to be more inclusive. This applies to more than just hospitality, but all industries. 
  • Don’t lose sight of what drives you and gets you motivated throughout the day. We all get so busy in our daily lives but it’s important to keep your motivation and your passion alive. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

1:50 “When I think about hospitality, it's really one person attending to the needs of another person, but doing it with thoughtful intention and doing it in a way that makes them feel welcome. It makes them feel appreciated. It makes them feel seen. And it's really about that human connection. And so it's not really defined or confined to hotels and restaurants and bars, but really at any place where humans reside. And I think that ability to really make one another feel good and feel appreciated, that's what hospitality is all about.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

14:42 Instagram

17:48 El Paso, TX

18:54 Beto O'Rourke

20:37 Detroit, MI

23:20 HDAC: Hospitality Diversity Action Council

23:41 Stacy Shoemaker

23:49 George Floyd

24:07 Bershard

27:10 Hoffman Institute 

27:37 HD Expo

27:48 Carlos Herrera

28:23 Damon Lawrence

28:30 Erin Anderson

28:55 LGBTQ

29:48 Independent Lodging Congress

31:58 Marquise Stillwell

36:13 Holiday Inns

36:15 Hampton Hotels

43:24 Dan Pierce


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality and Psychology - Dr. Chloe Carmichael - Episode # 019 19 19 Hospitality and Psychology - Dr. Chloe Carmichael - Episode # 019 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/cb083958-ad7f-32a3-8428-7f67ba096eeb https://share.transistor.fm/s/ae54e923 Dr. Chloe Carmichael is a world renowned psychologist, entrepreneur, and public speaker. She is also the author of “Nervous Energy - Harness the Power of Your Anxiety”, teaching people how to manage their anxiety. She’s here to give a unique perspective on the overlap between hospitality and psychology. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is an overlap when it comes to hospitality and psychology. There is a level of empathy that needs to be reached in each one.
  • Reflective listening is when you are hearing someone talk to you but then you're able to feed it back to them in a concise manner.
  • There is a healthy function to anxiety, so it’s not healthy to want to get rid of it. The best way is to manage it and focus it in a constructive way.
  • Mental Shortlist Technique is when you are hyper focused on something coming up, so to make sure you don’t lose focus of everything else you make a short list of other things to keep you focused.
  • Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It can be nerve wracking but in the long run it will be extremely beneficial and rewarding. 
  • Taking care of yourself mentally is extremely important. Often we get so busy in our daily lives that we don’t take time to focus, breathe, and relax and ease our busy minds. 


Quote of the Show:

2:10 “When I even saw the title of your podcast, Defining hospitality, I got really curious about the etymology or the Greek roots of that word. So I was just looking it up and noticing that the Greek word in ‘hospa’ is going to be traced to caring for people. Not only as a host, but that it also pertains as a guest. And I thought it was interesting to see it was the same route that we applied to hospital.

So I personally have almost had that emergency room feeling like, get me to a fine dining experience or a great hotel. I need that, my soul needs to be taken care of. Because actually also in psychology, the Greek word, ‘psyche’ traces to spirit. So I do think that there's so much overlap with psychology and hospitality, that level of empathy that we need to bring to people. 


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:14 Deepak Chopra

0:57 Entrepreneur Organization

20:26 Zone of Control technique

33:42 Baker McKenzie law firm

34:15 Corporate Counseling Associates

36:42 Flatiron District

50:31 YPO event


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Dr. Chloe Carmichael is a world renowned psychologist, entrepreneur, and public speaker. She is also the author of “Nervous Energy - Harness the Power of Your Anxiety”, teaching people how to manage their anxiety. She’s here to give a unique perspective on the overlap between hospitality and psychology. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is an overlap when it comes to hospitality and psychology. There is a level of empathy that needs to be reached in each one.
  • Reflective listening is when you are hearing someone talk to you but then you're able to feed it back to them in a concise manner.
  • There is a healthy function to anxiety, so it’s not healthy to want to get rid of it. The best way is to manage it and focus it in a constructive way.
  • Mental Shortlist Technique is when you are hyper focused on something coming up, so to make sure you don’t lose focus of everything else you make a short list of other things to keep you focused.
  • Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It can be nerve wracking but in the long run it will be extremely beneficial and rewarding. 
  • Taking care of yourself mentally is extremely important. Often we get so busy in our daily lives that we don’t take time to focus, breathe, and relax and ease our busy minds. 


Quote of the Show:

2:10 “When I even saw the title of your podcast, Defining hospitality, I got really curious about the etymology or the Greek roots of that word. So I was just looking it up and noticing that the Greek word in ‘hospa’ is going to be traced to caring for people. Not only as a host, but that it also pertains as a guest. And I thought it was interesting to see it was the same route that we applied to hospital.

So I personally have almost had that emergency room feeling like, get me to a fine dining experience or a great hotel. I need that, my soul needs to be taken care of. Because actually also in psychology, the Greek word, ‘psyche’ traces to spirit. So I do think that there's so much overlap with psychology and hospitality, that level of empathy that we need to bring to people. 


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:14 Deepak Chopra

0:57 Entrepreneur Organization

20:26 Zone of Control technique

33:42 Baker McKenzie law firm

34:15 Corporate Counseling Associates

36:42 Flatiron District

50:31 YPO event


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 29 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3168 Dr. Chloe Carmichael is a world renowned psychologist, entrepreneur, and public speaker. She is also the author of “Nervous Energy - Harness the Power of Your Anxiety”, teaching people how to manage their anxiety. She’s here to give a unique perspective on the overlap between hospitality and psychology. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • There is an overlap when it comes to hospitality and psychology. There is a level of empathy that needs to be reached in each one.
  • Reflective listening is when you are hearing someone talk to you but then you're able to feed it back to them in a concise manner.
  • There is a healthy function to anxiety, so it’s not healthy to want to get rid of it. The best way is to manage it and focus it in a constructive way.
  • Mental Shortlist Technique is when you are hyper focused on something coming up, so to make sure you don’t lose focus of everything else you make a short list of other things to keep you focused.
  • Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It can be nerve wracking but in the long run it will be extremely beneficial and rewarding. 
  • Taking care of yourself mentally is extremely important. Often we get so busy in our daily lives that we don’t take time to focus, breathe, and relax and ease our busy minds. 


Quote of the Show:

2:10 “When I even saw the title of your podcast, Defining hospitality, I got really curious about the etymology or the Greek roots of that word. So I was just looking it up and noticing that the Greek word in ‘hospa’ is going to be traced to caring for people. Not only as a host, but that it also pertains as a guest. And I thought it was interesting to see it was the same route that we applied to hospital.

So I personally have almost had that emergency room feeling like, get me to a fine dining experience or a great hotel. I need that, my soul needs to be taken care of. Because actually also in psychology, the Greek word, ‘psyche’ traces to spirit. So I do think that there's so much overlap with psychology and hospitality, that level of empathy that we need to bring to people. 


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:14 Deepak Chopra

0:57 Entrepreneur Organization

20:26 Zone of Control technique

33:42 Baker McKenzie law firm

34:15 Corporate Counseling Associates

36:42 Flatiron District

50:31 YPO event


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Inclusivity; The Backbone of Hospitality - Kraig Kalashian - Episode # 018 18 18 Inclusivity; The Backbone of Hospitality - Kraig Kalashian - Episode # 018 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/1cb1f203-2c88-39fc-b37a-de7a2cec318e https://share.transistor.fm/s/0279e981 Kraig Kalashian is the owner of KKAD, Pocono Modern, and Westmore Hotels and  Restaurants, which includes Pren Kitchen. After spending years playing in a band, Kraig realized he has a passion for solving problems and he discovered the best way to do that is through architecture, food and music. He’s here to give a unique perspective on hospitality through a different lens. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Architecture isn’t about how to make money, but rather how to solve problems. It’s all about finding ways to fit everything you can imagine into a given space. 
  • Hospitality is a feeling you get when you are taken care of. It’s knowing that somebody is devoting 100% of their time and attention to you and making sure all your needs are met. 
  • Today, travel and dining out are not the luxuries they were once considered to be, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to do it well.
  • Kaizen is the Japanese word for making small, incremental improvements over a period of time. 
  • Acknowledging that a mistake has been made is something that is very important when it comes to life and business.
  • It’s important to listen to the staff and hear what their opinions are. They might have a great idea on where to better locate certain things to make their life easier (ie, making sure each floor has a linen closet).
  • The Einstein approach is working on ideas for a long period of time, but sometimes the answer to each one arrives at the same time, making it seem like it was all done at once.
  • Everybody gets the same 168 hours during the week. After sleeping and working, we are left with 50 hours of freetime. How you carve out that freetime is up to you, but you can use it to master your craft. 
  • The backbone of hospitality is inclusivity. People from all walks of life are part of hospitality so finding ways to include them and making them feel wanted is the essence of the industry. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:37 “Hospitality is a feeling, it's the feeling like somebody is taking care of you. It's the feeling like somebody sees who you are and what you need and, and gives you that. For me, the best way that I could define it is just this feeling I used to get from going to my grandmother's house when I was a kid. 

So if you asked what's hospitality, I would say it's, it's the way my grandmother treated me. Like when I was a kid, like when I would go to my grandmother's house, like she would just basically give me a hundred percent of her time and attention while I was there. She would always have things that were special for me.

It was really like this feeling of being treated in the best way, like you would imagine royalty gets treated and somebody stopping, whatever they're doing to just make you feel at home or accommodated or, you know, just pay attention to what you need. And so I think that for me, the idea of hospitality is just thinking about other people and how to, and how to make them feel seen and how to make them feel taken care of.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:56 Dominique Ansel, creator of the Cronut

10:25 Independent Lodging Congress event in Brooklyn 

10:29 David Rockwell

12:46 Danny Meyer

20:20 W Hotels

22:03 Blackberry Farm

24:46 John George

25:54 Hygge, Scandinavian Design 

36:13 Libby Patrick

40:26 Amman

40:27 Four Season

40:29 Mandarin Oriential 

49:13 Joe Rogan

49:14 Marc Maron

50:47 Game of Thrones

51:20 Target 

51:26 Starbucks

58:54 DoubleTree Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Kraig Kalashian is the owner of KKAD, Pocono Modern, and Westmore Hotels and  Restaurants, which includes Pren Kitchen. After spending years playing in a band, Kraig realized he has a passion for solving problems and he discovered the best way to do that is through architecture, food and music. He’s here to give a unique perspective on hospitality through a different lens. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Architecture isn’t about how to make money, but rather how to solve problems. It’s all about finding ways to fit everything you can imagine into a given space. 
  • Hospitality is a feeling you get when you are taken care of. It’s knowing that somebody is devoting 100% of their time and attention to you and making sure all your needs are met. 
  • Today, travel and dining out are not the luxuries they were once considered to be, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to do it well.
  • Kaizen is the Japanese word for making small, incremental improvements over a period of time. 
  • Acknowledging that a mistake has been made is something that is very important when it comes to life and business.
  • It’s important to listen to the staff and hear what their opinions are. They might have a great idea on where to better locate certain things to make their life easier (ie, making sure each floor has a linen closet).
  • The Einstein approach is working on ideas for a long period of time, but sometimes the answer to each one arrives at the same time, making it seem like it was all done at once.
  • Everybody gets the same 168 hours during the week. After sleeping and working, we are left with 50 hours of freetime. How you carve out that freetime is up to you, but you can use it to master your craft. 
  • The backbone of hospitality is inclusivity. People from all walks of life are part of hospitality so finding ways to include them and making them feel wanted is the essence of the industry. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:37 “Hospitality is a feeling, it's the feeling like somebody is taking care of you. It's the feeling like somebody sees who you are and what you need and, and gives you that. For me, the best way that I could define it is just this feeling I used to get from going to my grandmother's house when I was a kid. 

So if you asked what's hospitality, I would say it's, it's the way my grandmother treated me. Like when I was a kid, like when I would go to my grandmother's house, like she would just basically give me a hundred percent of her time and attention while I was there. She would always have things that were special for me.

It was really like this feeling of being treated in the best way, like you would imagine royalty gets treated and somebody stopping, whatever they're doing to just make you feel at home or accommodated or, you know, just pay attention to what you need. And so I think that for me, the idea of hospitality is just thinking about other people and how to, and how to make them feel seen and how to make them feel taken care of.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:56 Dominique Ansel, creator of the Cronut

10:25 Independent Lodging Congress event in Brooklyn 

10:29 David Rockwell

12:46 Danny Meyer

20:20 W Hotels

22:03 Blackberry Farm

24:46 John George

25:54 Hygge, Scandinavian Design 

36:13 Libby Patrick

40:26 Amman

40:27 Four Season

40:29 Mandarin Oriential 

49:13 Joe Rogan

49:14 Marc Maron

50:47 Game of Thrones

51:20 Target 

51:26 Starbucks

58:54 DoubleTree Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 27 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4411 Kraig Kalashian is the owner of KKAD, Pocono Modern, and Westmore Hotels and  Restaurants, which includes Pren Kitchen. After spending years playing in a band, Kraig realized he has a passion for solving problems and he discovered the best way to do that is through architecture, food and music. He’s here to give a unique perspective on hospitality through a different lens. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Architecture isn’t about how to make money, but rather how to solve problems. It’s all about finding ways to fit everything you can imagine into a given space. 
  • Hospitality is a feeling you get when you are taken care of. It’s knowing that somebody is devoting 100% of their time and attention to you and making sure all your needs are met. 
  • Today, travel and dining out are not the luxuries they were once considered to be, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to do it well.
  • Kaizen is the Japanese word for making small, incremental improvements over a period of time. 
  • Acknowledging that a mistake has been made is something that is very important when it comes to life and business.
  • It’s important to listen to the staff and hear what their opinions are. They might have a great idea on where to better locate certain things to make their life easier (ie, making sure each floor has a linen closet).
  • The Einstein approach is working on ideas for a long period of time, but sometimes the answer to each one arrives at the same time, making it seem like it was all done at once.
  • Everybody gets the same 168 hours during the week. After sleeping and working, we are left with 50 hours of freetime. How you carve out that freetime is up to you, but you can use it to master your craft. 
  • The backbone of hospitality is inclusivity. People from all walks of life are part of hospitality so finding ways to include them and making them feel wanted is the essence of the industry. 


Quote of the Show:

 

3:37 “Hospitality is a feeling, it's the feeling like somebody is taking care of you. It's the feeling like somebody sees who you are and what you need and, and gives you that. For me, the best way that I could define it is just this feeling I used to get from going to my grandmother's house when I was a kid. 

So if you asked what's hospitality, I would say it's, it's the way my grandmother treated me. Like when I was a kid, like when I would go to my grandmother's house, like she would just basically give me a hundred percent of her time and attention while I was there. She would always have things that were special for me.

It was really like this feeling of being treated in the best way, like you would imagine royalty gets treated and somebody stopping, whatever they're doing to just make you feel at home or accommodated or, you know, just pay attention to what you need. And so I think that for me, the idea of hospitality is just thinking about other people and how to, and how to make them feel seen and how to make them feel taken care of.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:56 Dominique Ansel, creator of the Cronut

10:25 Independent Lodging Congress event in Brooklyn 

10:29 David Rockwell

12:46 Danny Meyer

20:20 W Hotels

22:03 Blackberry Farm

24:46 John George

25:54 Hygge, Scandinavian Design 

36:13 Libby Patrick

40:26 Amman

40:27 Four Season

40:29 Mandarin Oriential 

49:13 Joe Rogan

49:14 Marc Maron

50:47 Game of Thrones

51:20 Target 

51:26 Starbucks

58:54 DoubleTree Hilton


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Life is a Journey, not a Destination - Arnie Malham - Episode # 017 17 17 Life is a Journey, not a Destination - Arnie Malham - Episode # 017 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/039c94e9-9593-3cea-acb6-c53872e434b2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/db7d4c63 Arnie Malham is the founder of a number of different companies and organizations, including BetterBookClub.com. He’s also the author of “Worth Doing Wrong,” where he discusses how to build a sustainable business model through company culture. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • At work, your team will never treat clients better than how the boss treats the team. That is one of the many forms of hospitality. 
  • If you put people in a position and don’t pay them well and they don’t believe in the team then there is a discomfort that grows. 
  • Core values start with a team leader. It’s easy for a leader to praise certain values but it’s important that the leader also is willing to help with even the little things and show they are invested and they care.
  • Embrace growth, always be confident, be optimistic, and prepare. These are 4 core values to have going through life. 
  • It’s the little things that can make a difference for a guest. Things like certain types of bedsheets and toilet paper can make them feel important and known. 
  • As a team, don’t say no to any idea. It’s ok to be wrong, but saying no creates a roadblock and might discourage people from sharing anymore of their ideas.


Quote of the Show:


6:26 I'm a believer in that the core values and culture start with the leader. And in fact, they start and end with a leader, that leader. The leader of an organization, a team that is the number one thing that sets the tone for culture and core values.

And then what that leader does versus what that leader says. It's easy to go down a list and determine if those two things match up. I'll quote Jack Daly again. I'm pretty sure he said, ‘I can tell you your values based on your calendar. I can look at your calendar and tell you your values, because it doesn't matter what you say, the question is, are you doing the things that match your values, that match your priorities?’

It's little things. It's where the leader parks, it's where the leaders are willing to participate in and the cleanliness of the environment. It's what he or she accepts and praises, but almost more importantly, what he or she tolerates. What a leader tolerates in their business, in themselves, in their direct reports and in the entire team, I think has as much to do with setting the tone of a culture than anything else.”

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:18 MIT Entrepreneurial Masters Program

3:54 Jack Daley

19:13 Andrew Scarlett

22:50 Andrew Benioff

22:52 Independent Lodging Congress

22:57 Nico

22:59 Pan Pacific in Seattle

34:34 Loren Brill 

34:35 Sweet Loren’s

43:22 John DiJulius

46:05 Verne Harnish

58:28 Hilton Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Arnie Malham is the founder of a number of different companies and organizations, including BetterBookClub.com. He’s also the author of “Worth Doing Wrong,” where he discusses how to build a sustainable business model through company culture. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • At work, your team will never treat clients better than how the boss treats the team. That is one of the many forms of hospitality. 
  • If you put people in a position and don’t pay them well and they don’t believe in the team then there is a discomfort that grows. 
  • Core values start with a team leader. It’s easy for a leader to praise certain values but it’s important that the leader also is willing to help with even the little things and show they are invested and they care.
  • Embrace growth, always be confident, be optimistic, and prepare. These are 4 core values to have going through life. 
  • It’s the little things that can make a difference for a guest. Things like certain types of bedsheets and toilet paper can make them feel important and known. 
  • As a team, don’t say no to any idea. It’s ok to be wrong, but saying no creates a roadblock and might discourage people from sharing anymore of their ideas.


Quote of the Show:


6:26 I'm a believer in that the core values and culture start with the leader. And in fact, they start and end with a leader, that leader. The leader of an organization, a team that is the number one thing that sets the tone for culture and core values.

And then what that leader does versus what that leader says. It's easy to go down a list and determine if those two things match up. I'll quote Jack Daly again. I'm pretty sure he said, ‘I can tell you your values based on your calendar. I can look at your calendar and tell you your values, because it doesn't matter what you say, the question is, are you doing the things that match your values, that match your priorities?’

It's little things. It's where the leader parks, it's where the leaders are willing to participate in and the cleanliness of the environment. It's what he or she accepts and praises, but almost more importantly, what he or she tolerates. What a leader tolerates in their business, in themselves, in their direct reports and in the entire team, I think has as much to do with setting the tone of a culture than anything else.”

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:18 MIT Entrepreneurial Masters Program

3:54 Jack Daley

19:13 Andrew Scarlett

22:50 Andrew Benioff

22:52 Independent Lodging Congress

22:57 Nico

22:59 Pan Pacific in Seattle

34:34 Loren Brill 

34:35 Sweet Loren’s

43:22 John DiJulius

46:05 Verne Harnish

58:28 Hilton Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 22 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4290 Arnie Malham is the founder of a number of different companies and organizations, including BetterBookClub.com. He’s also the author of “Worth Doing Wrong,” where he discusses how to build a sustainable business model through company culture. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • At work, your team will never treat clients better than how the boss treats the team. That is one of the many forms of hospitality. 
  • If you put people in a position and don’t pay them well and they don’t believe in the team then there is a discomfort that grows. 
  • Core values start with a team leader. It’s easy for a leader to praise certain values but it’s important that the leader also is willing to help with even the little things and show they are invested and they care.
  • Embrace growth, always be confident, be optimistic, and prepare. These are 4 core values to have going through life. 
  • It’s the little things that can make a difference for a guest. Things like certain types of bedsheets and toilet paper can make them feel important and known. 
  • As a team, don’t say no to any idea. It’s ok to be wrong, but saying no creates a roadblock and might discourage people from sharing anymore of their ideas.


Quote of the Show:


6:26 I'm a believer in that the core values and culture start with the leader. And in fact, they start and end with a leader, that leader. The leader of an organization, a team that is the number one thing that sets the tone for culture and core values.

And then what that leader does versus what that leader says. It's easy to go down a list and determine if those two things match up. I'll quote Jack Daly again. I'm pretty sure he said, ‘I can tell you your values based on your calendar. I can look at your calendar and tell you your values, because it doesn't matter what you say, the question is, are you doing the things that match your values, that match your priorities?’

It's little things. It's where the leader parks, it's where the leaders are willing to participate in and the cleanliness of the environment. It's what he or she accepts and praises, but almost more importantly, what he or she tolerates. What a leader tolerates in their business, in themselves, in their direct reports and in the entire team, I think has as much to do with setting the tone of a culture than anything else.”

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:18 MIT Entrepreneurial Masters Program

3:54 Jack Daley

19:13 Andrew Scarlett

22:50 Andrew Benioff

22:52 Independent Lodging Congress

22:57 Nico

22:59 Pan Pacific in Seattle

34:34 Loren Brill 

34:35 Sweet Loren’s

43:22 John DiJulius

46:05 Verne Harnish

58:28 Hilton Hotels


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Experiential and Educational Travel - Joseph Diaz - Episode # 016 16 16 Experiential and Educational Travel - Joseph Diaz - Episode # 016 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/21b09ca3-f7ee-3fa9-9052-9cc7e3289563 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5ebd7bee When it comes to life changing events, there is nothing quite like travel. Joseph Diaz is the co-founder of AFAR Media, and he has taken it upon himself to use travel as a way to enrich the lives of the younger generation that doesn’t have the same opportunities. There’s a lot to be said about going to a completely new place and truly immersing yourself in the culture, and seeing what you can do to contribute to the community.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality world has been flipped upside down. In 2019 it was very guest centric, but today it is a two way street. It is a concept that embraces the idea of mutual benefit, and what the guest can bring to the community.
  • A form of hospitality where you put the guest on a pedestal is limiting and creates a fear of messing up. But what the guest truly craves is connection to the place they are visiting.
  • Travel is the best form of education. Getting young people to travel and explore the world will provide them opportunities they might not have ever had and can change their world.
  • You need to create a message to attract people to come visit your town or location not just during tourist season, but at all times of the year.
  • How do we continue to stay open to new experiences? The good, the bad, the ugly? We have natural tendencies to run away from things we don’t like, but those experiences are just as important.
  • The generation coming up is more in tune with their values and more open to travel and exploring other communities.


Quote of the Show:

 

1:34 “A 2019 definition of hospitality would be one that is extremely guest centric, where it's focused on the desk, doing everything to make the guests feel welcome, feel at home. You know, there's tons of  definitions that are similar to that in our world. And the way that we're thinking about things today, hospitality for us is a two-way street.

It is a concept that really embraces the idea of mutual benefit and what the guests can also contribute to the equation. You know, I think JFK, his famous ‘ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ Similarly ask, ‘not what your travels can do for you; ask what your travels can do for the communities where you're traveling and the planet in which we are living.’”

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:26 Independent Lodging Congress

5:09 White Lotus

9:01 “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

9:45 Laura Redmond

9:49 Ben Pundole 

13:42 Teach for America

14:13 Rosa Linda Elementary School in South Phoenix, AZ

16:10 JFK 

16:16 Peace Corps

26:08 Reykjavik

26:09 Venice

30:20 Asheville, North Carolina

31:45 Vanuatu

36:51: Airbnb

1;04:44 Amika Moran

1;07:08 Staples

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> When it comes to life changing events, there is nothing quite like travel. Joseph Diaz is the co-founder of AFAR Media, and he has taken it upon himself to use travel as a way to enrich the lives of the younger generation that doesn’t have the same opportunities. There’s a lot to be said about going to a completely new place and truly immersing yourself in the culture, and seeing what you can do to contribute to the community.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality world has been flipped upside down. In 2019 it was very guest centric, but today it is a two way street. It is a concept that embraces the idea of mutual benefit, and what the guest can bring to the community.
  • A form of hospitality where you put the guest on a pedestal is limiting and creates a fear of messing up. But what the guest truly craves is connection to the place they are visiting.
  • Travel is the best form of education. Getting young people to travel and explore the world will provide them opportunities they might not have ever had and can change their world.
  • You need to create a message to attract people to come visit your town or location not just during tourist season, but at all times of the year.
  • How do we continue to stay open to new experiences? The good, the bad, the ugly? We have natural tendencies to run away from things we don’t like, but those experiences are just as important.
  • The generation coming up is more in tune with their values and more open to travel and exploring other communities.


Quote of the Show:

 

1:34 “A 2019 definition of hospitality would be one that is extremely guest centric, where it's focused on the desk, doing everything to make the guests feel welcome, feel at home. You know, there's tons of  definitions that are similar to that in our world. And the way that we're thinking about things today, hospitality for us is a two-way street.

It is a concept that really embraces the idea of mutual benefit and what the guests can also contribute to the equation. You know, I think JFK, his famous ‘ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ Similarly ask, ‘not what your travels can do for you; ask what your travels can do for the communities where you're traveling and the planet in which we are living.’”

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:26 Independent Lodging Congress

5:09 White Lotus

9:01 “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

9:45 Laura Redmond

9:49 Ben Pundole 

13:42 Teach for America

14:13 Rosa Linda Elementary School in South Phoenix, AZ

16:10 JFK 

16:16 Peace Corps

26:08 Reykjavik

26:09 Venice

30:20 Asheville, North Carolina

31:45 Vanuatu

36:51: Airbnb

1;04:44 Amika Moran

1;07:08 Staples

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4308 When it comes to life changing events, there is nothing quite like travel. Joseph Diaz is the co-founder of AFAR Media, and he has taken it upon himself to use travel as a way to enrich the lives of the younger generation that doesn’t have the same opportunities. There’s a lot to be said about going to a completely new place and truly immersing yourself in the culture, and seeing what you can do to contribute to the community.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • The hospitality world has been flipped upside down. In 2019 it was very guest centric, but today it is a two way street. It is a concept that embraces the idea of mutual benefit, and what the guest can bring to the community.
  • A form of hospitality where you put the guest on a pedestal is limiting and creates a fear of messing up. But what the guest truly craves is connection to the place they are visiting.
  • Travel is the best form of education. Getting young people to travel and explore the world will provide them opportunities they might not have ever had and can change their world.
  • You need to create a message to attract people to come visit your town or location not just during tourist season, but at all times of the year.
  • How do we continue to stay open to new experiences? The good, the bad, the ugly? We have natural tendencies to run away from things we don’t like, but those experiences are just as important.
  • The generation coming up is more in tune with their values and more open to travel and exploring other communities.


Quote of the Show:

 

1:34 “A 2019 definition of hospitality would be one that is extremely guest centric, where it's focused on the desk, doing everything to make the guests feel welcome, feel at home. You know, there's tons of  definitions that are similar to that in our world. And the way that we're thinking about things today, hospitality for us is a two-way street.

It is a concept that really embraces the idea of mutual benefit and what the guests can also contribute to the equation. You know, I think JFK, his famous ‘ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ Similarly ask, ‘not what your travels can do for you; ask what your travels can do for the communities where you're traveling and the planet in which we are living.’”

 Links: 


Shout Outs: 

0:26 Independent Lodging Congress

5:09 White Lotus

9:01 “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

9:45 Laura Redmond

9:49 Ben Pundole 

13:42 Teach for America

14:13 Rosa Linda Elementary School in South Phoenix, AZ

16:10 JFK 

16:16 Peace Corps

26:08 Reykjavik

26:09 Venice

30:20 Asheville, North Carolina

31:45 Vanuatu

36:51: Airbnb

1;04:44 Amika Moran

1;07:08 Staples

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Portable Hospitality Solution - Michael Bedner - Episode #015 15 15 The Portable Hospitality Solution - Michael Bedner - Episode #015 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/9eacd671-abb0-334d-9bbc-9f670571447e https://share.transistor.fm/s/f0c2b2ab Today’s guest has a unique business and with that brings his positive attitude about life and hospitality to everything he does. Dan is joined by Michael Bedner, a partner at SOLi, and part of Hirsch/Bedner Associates. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, there are three major rules to live by. One, always do your best job. Two, you better enjoy what you do. And three, you must grow and learn from any mistakes. 
  • The best way to describe hospitality is that it is ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen.
  • Hospitality is all about making guests feel comfortable and at ease. 
  • The replacement of not having people at check in desks has turned it from a place of human gathering to a place where iPhones gather, it’s not as magical as it used to be.
  • Comfort is not just your surroundings, it’s also how you are perceived. You want to make people feel glad they are at the place they chose to be, making sure they don’t feel like a burden. 
  • California has 1600 different building area codes, which makes it incredibly difficult to bring in new and innovative projects to the area. 
  • Michael is hopeful that in the future there will be enough people that are willing to try new and innovative ideas and change the way that the hospitality industry functions. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:49 “The most important element of hospitality is making someone feel totally comfortable at ease and enjoy the experience. You could do that in an empty room with nothing around. If the service is wonderful and we have a view. Or 98% of the time, you don't always have that amazing view. So you have to provide the atmosphere where you feel where you have, as Howard would say a sense of place.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:08 Howard Hirsch

5:32 Beverly Rodale Hotel

6:39 Porsche

6:40 Ritz-Carlton

34:18 Tesla

41:20 Buckminster Fuller

49:30 UC San Diego 

51:44 Disneyland

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest has a unique business and with that brings his positive attitude about life and hospitality to everything he does. Dan is joined by Michael Bedner, a partner at SOLi, and part of Hirsch/Bedner Associates. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, there are three major rules to live by. One, always do your best job. Two, you better enjoy what you do. And three, you must grow and learn from any mistakes. 
  • The best way to describe hospitality is that it is ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen.
  • Hospitality is all about making guests feel comfortable and at ease. 
  • The replacement of not having people at check in desks has turned it from a place of human gathering to a place where iPhones gather, it’s not as magical as it used to be.
  • Comfort is not just your surroundings, it’s also how you are perceived. You want to make people feel glad they are at the place they chose to be, making sure they don’t feel like a burden. 
  • California has 1600 different building area codes, which makes it incredibly difficult to bring in new and innovative projects to the area. 
  • Michael is hopeful that in the future there will be enough people that are willing to try new and innovative ideas and change the way that the hospitality industry functions. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:49 “The most important element of hospitality is making someone feel totally comfortable at ease and enjoy the experience. You could do that in an empty room with nothing around. If the service is wonderful and we have a view. Or 98% of the time, you don't always have that amazing view. So you have to provide the atmosphere where you feel where you have, as Howard would say a sense of place.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:08 Howard Hirsch

5:32 Beverly Rodale Hotel

6:39 Porsche

6:40 Ritz-Carlton

34:18 Tesla

41:20 Buckminster Fuller

49:30 UC San Diego 

51:44 Disneyland

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3491 Today’s guest has a unique business and with that brings his positive attitude about life and hospitality to everything he does. Dan is joined by Michael Bedner, a partner at SOLi, and part of Hirsch/Bedner Associates. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • In the hospitality industry, there are three major rules to live by. One, always do your best job. Two, you better enjoy what you do. And three, you must grow and learn from any mistakes. 
  • The best way to describe hospitality is that it is ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen.
  • Hospitality is all about making guests feel comfortable and at ease. 
  • The replacement of not having people at check in desks has turned it from a place of human gathering to a place where iPhones gather, it’s not as magical as it used to be.
  • Comfort is not just your surroundings, it’s also how you are perceived. You want to make people feel glad they are at the place they chose to be, making sure they don’t feel like a burden. 
  • California has 1600 different building area codes, which makes it incredibly difficult to bring in new and innovative projects to the area. 
  • Michael is hopeful that in the future there will be enough people that are willing to try new and innovative ideas and change the way that the hospitality industry functions. 


Quote of the Show:

 

7:49 “The most important element of hospitality is making someone feel totally comfortable at ease and enjoy the experience. You could do that in an empty room with nothing around. If the service is wonderful and we have a view. Or 98% of the time, you don't always have that amazing view. So you have to provide the atmosphere where you feel where you have, as Howard would say a sense of place.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

5:08 Howard Hirsch

5:32 Beverly Rodale Hotel

6:39 Porsche

6:40 Ritz-Carlton

34:18 Tesla

41:20 Buckminster Fuller

49:30 UC San Diego 

51:44 Disneyland

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Japanese Culture is a Mentality - Andrew Benioff - Episode #014 14 14 Japanese Culture is a Mentality - Andrew Benioff - Episode #014 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/ab8c6da0-20b2-31f9-be19-5a7513ca3de2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/29e7583f Today’s guest spent time working in Japan and brings his cultured view to hospitality. Andrew Benioff is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Llenrock Group. He’s also the Founder of the Philadelphia Real Estate Council and the Independent Lodging Congress. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Service is the act of serving, but hospitality is the feeling an empathic employee gives to a customer. It’s difficult to have good hospitality without great service.
  • Japanese culture is a mentality. A big part of it is the wellbeing of a group of people over an individual. 
  • In Japan, perfection is expected in your work. While it can be demanding, it brings out the best work in the person and allows them to achieve the highest goals they have.
  • While perfection is expected in Japan, it’s not always a good thing. It’s ok to fail at something that is a new attempt. Failure can be a great teaching moment.
  • Try to be flexible in your thinking. A new approach to a process might be an idea that can turn out to be helpful. 
  • Two things that hotels absolutely need to have: a shower with great water pressure and a comfortable bed. If a hotel has those two features all other issues are forgotten.
  • Be patient and have an open mind. Try not to think that things need to go a certain way, it’s almost more important to know what you don’t want rather than to know what you want to do. 


Quote of the Show:

 

48:32 “The longer I've done ILC (Independent Lodging Congress), the more I've become interested in indie hospitality in indie hotels.

 

I think that the indie space is fascinating for so many reasons in that it takes so much more attention to detail to work on one of those projects. And it also takes so much more of a connection to the community and the area that the project is in. And so I'm working on a number of different projects that are all indie focused, and I love them because each one of them is so distinct and different.

 

And I love that focus of really digging into the community.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:06 Danny Meyer

 

4:12 Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

 

6:00 Four Seasons 

 

6:10 Rosewood

 

8:23 The Rock House in the Bahamas

 

12:38 Team Building ILC

 

16:18 McDonald’s

 

19:46 Jiro Dreams of Sushi documentary 

 

24:07 Penn Pacific in San Francisco

 

24:08 Nico in San Francisco

 

24:10 Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco

 

44:44 The Birth of Sake

 

49:44 Fairfield Inn

 

49:45 Hampton Inn

 

50:15 Hortz Schulze, founder of Ritz-Carlton

 

51:45 Michael Bedner


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Today’s guest spent time working in Japan and brings his cultured view to hospitality. Andrew Benioff is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Llenrock Group. He’s also the Founder of the Philadelphia Real Estate Council and the Independent Lodging Congress. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Service is the act of serving, but hospitality is the feeling an empathic employee gives to a customer. It’s difficult to have good hospitality without great service.
  • Japanese culture is a mentality. A big part of it is the wellbeing of a group of people over an individual. 
  • In Japan, perfection is expected in your work. While it can be demanding, it brings out the best work in the person and allows them to achieve the highest goals they have.
  • While perfection is expected in Japan, it’s not always a good thing. It’s ok to fail at something that is a new attempt. Failure can be a great teaching moment.
  • Try to be flexible in your thinking. A new approach to a process might be an idea that can turn out to be helpful. 
  • Two things that hotels absolutely need to have: a shower with great water pressure and a comfortable bed. If a hotel has those two features all other issues are forgotten.
  • Be patient and have an open mind. Try not to think that things need to go a certain way, it’s almost more important to know what you don’t want rather than to know what you want to do. 


Quote of the Show:

 

48:32 “The longer I've done ILC (Independent Lodging Congress), the more I've become interested in indie hospitality in indie hotels.

 

I think that the indie space is fascinating for so many reasons in that it takes so much more attention to detail to work on one of those projects. And it also takes so much more of a connection to the community and the area that the project is in. And so I'm working on a number of different projects that are all indie focused, and I love them because each one of them is so distinct and different.

 

And I love that focus of really digging into the community.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:06 Danny Meyer

 

4:12 Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

 

6:00 Four Seasons 

 

6:10 Rosewood

 

8:23 The Rock House in the Bahamas

 

12:38 Team Building ILC

 

16:18 McDonald’s

 

19:46 Jiro Dreams of Sushi documentary 

 

24:07 Penn Pacific in San Francisco

 

24:08 Nico in San Francisco

 

24:10 Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco

 

44:44 The Birth of Sake

 

49:44 Fairfield Inn

 

49:45 Hampton Inn

 

50:15 Hortz Schulze, founder of Ritz-Carlton

 

51:45 Michael Bedner


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:02:08 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3764 Today’s guest spent time working in Japan and brings his cultured view to hospitality. Andrew Benioff is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Llenrock Group. He’s also the Founder of the Philadelphia Real Estate Council and the Independent Lodging Congress. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!


Takeaways: 

  • Service is the act of serving, but hospitality is the feeling an empathic employee gives to a customer. It’s difficult to have good hospitality without great service.
  • Japanese culture is a mentality. A big part of it is the wellbeing of a group of people over an individual. 
  • In Japan, perfection is expected in your work. While it can be demanding, it brings out the best work in the person and allows them to achieve the highest goals they have.
  • While perfection is expected in Japan, it’s not always a good thing. It’s ok to fail at something that is a new attempt. Failure can be a great teaching moment.
  • Try to be flexible in your thinking. A new approach to a process might be an idea that can turn out to be helpful. 
  • Two things that hotels absolutely need to have: a shower with great water pressure and a comfortable bed. If a hotel has those two features all other issues are forgotten.
  • Be patient and have an open mind. Try not to think that things need to go a certain way, it’s almost more important to know what you don’t want rather than to know what you want to do. 


Quote of the Show:

 

48:32 “The longer I've done ILC (Independent Lodging Congress), the more I've become interested in indie hospitality in indie hotels.

 

I think that the indie space is fascinating for so many reasons in that it takes so much more attention to detail to work on one of those projects. And it also takes so much more of a connection to the community and the area that the project is in. And so I'm working on a number of different projects that are all indie focused, and I love them because each one of them is so distinct and different.

 

And I love that focus of really digging into the community.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:06 Danny Meyer

 

4:12 Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

 

6:00 Four Seasons 

 

6:10 Rosewood

 

8:23 The Rock House in the Bahamas

 

12:38 Team Building ILC

 

16:18 McDonald’s

 

19:46 Jiro Dreams of Sushi documentary 

 

24:07 Penn Pacific in San Francisco

 

24:08 Nico in San Francisco

 

24:10 Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco

 

44:44 The Birth of Sake

 

49:44 Fairfield Inn

 

49:45 Hampton Inn

 

50:15 Hortz Schulze, founder of Ritz-Carlton

 

51:45 Michael Bedner


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Industry That Never Sleeps - Marquise Stillwell - Episode #013 13 13 The Industry That Never Sleeps - Marquise Stillwell - Episode #013 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/a58ffd11-80af-33f7-9bca-08a47fa2ac7f https://share.transistor.fm/s/19c778e7 How do you feel when you first step into a hotel or a restaurant? The excitement in the air, the feeling that you have found some place that is truly unique is part of the allure of the hospitality industry.

Dan is joined by a renowned designer, innovative thinker and creative Entrepreneur, Marquise Stillwell. Marquise is also the founder of Deem Journal, ArtMatr, Openbox, Opendox, and Urban Ocean Lab. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitalities, especially hotels, are like tiny little cities. They are open 24 hours, they never stop and there are 24 hours of activity going on. 
  • Hotels serve the purpose to be surprised, meaning each time you walk in, you should feel it is a unique experience.  This is also known as Creating the Conditions to be Surprised.
  • Sometimes luck plays a big role. The proximity of luck is when you go out to a restaurant or a hotel and you begin to talk to someone near you, that person could be your next connection.
  • Restaurants and hotels that reflect the community are the ones of the future. 
  • When you meet people who are in close proximity to you (ie a hotel) that is called Density of Network.
  • The younger generation is going to get tired quickly of the rapid change in employment and treating employees like they are on a conveyor belt.

 

Quote of the Show:

24:31 “Hospitality right now is in a place where we need to rethink our model. Restaurants were already struggling. We need to rethink that model, we need to make it more human and people centered. We need to make sure people can afford to  live and work off their salary. We need to do the same thing in hotels. We need to make sure the front staff is just as respected as the office staff and that they have a livable wage. That’s a larger conversation but it goes to every aspect of what it means to serve. If you're in the service industry, and you’re providing food and you’re serving food and you can’t even afford the food you’re serving, that’s a problem.”

 

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

3:54 Ramada Inn and Hotel

12:38 Ramada Inn University and Hotel in Columbus, Ohio

31:15 Westin Hotels

31:30 Equinox Hotels

32:38 Scent Dawn and Samantha Goldworm

49:19 Hoffman Process

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you feel when you first step into a hotel or a restaurant? The excitement in the air, the feeling that you have found some place that is truly unique is part of the allure of the hospitality industry.

Dan is joined by a renowned designer, innovative thinker and creative Entrepreneur, Marquise Stillwell. Marquise is also the founder of Deem Journal, ArtMatr, Openbox, Opendox, and Urban Ocean Lab. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitalities, especially hotels, are like tiny little cities. They are open 24 hours, they never stop and there are 24 hours of activity going on. 
  • Hotels serve the purpose to be surprised, meaning each time you walk in, you should feel it is a unique experience.  This is also known as Creating the Conditions to be Surprised.
  • Sometimes luck plays a big role. The proximity of luck is when you go out to a restaurant or a hotel and you begin to talk to someone near you, that person could be your next connection.
  • Restaurants and hotels that reflect the community are the ones of the future. 
  • When you meet people who are in close proximity to you (ie a hotel) that is called Density of Network.
  • The younger generation is going to get tired quickly of the rapid change in employment and treating employees like they are on a conveyor belt.

 

Quote of the Show:

24:31 “Hospitality right now is in a place where we need to rethink our model. Restaurants were already struggling. We need to rethink that model, we need to make it more human and people centered. We need to make sure people can afford to  live and work off their salary. We need to do the same thing in hotels. We need to make sure the front staff is just as respected as the office staff and that they have a livable wage. That’s a larger conversation but it goes to every aspect of what it means to serve. If you're in the service industry, and you’re providing food and you’re serving food and you can’t even afford the food you’re serving, that’s a problem.”

 

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

3:54 Ramada Inn and Hotel

12:38 Ramada Inn University and Hotel in Columbus, Ohio

31:15 Westin Hotels

31:30 Equinox Hotels

32:38 Scent Dawn and Samantha Goldworm

49:19 Hoffman Process

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 08 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3985 How do you feel when you first step into a hotel or a restaurant? The excitement in the air, the feeling that you have found some place that is truly unique is part of the allure of the hospitality industry.

Dan is joined by a renowned designer, innovative thinker and creative Entrepreneur, Marquise Stillwell. Marquise is also the founder of Deem Journal, ArtMatr, Openbox, Opendox, and Urban Ocean Lab. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitalities, especially hotels, are like tiny little cities. They are open 24 hours, they never stop and there are 24 hours of activity going on. 
  • Hotels serve the purpose to be surprised, meaning each time you walk in, you should feel it is a unique experience.  This is also known as Creating the Conditions to be Surprised.
  • Sometimes luck plays a big role. The proximity of luck is when you go out to a restaurant or a hotel and you begin to talk to someone near you, that person could be your next connection.
  • Restaurants and hotels that reflect the community are the ones of the future. 
  • When you meet people who are in close proximity to you (ie a hotel) that is called Density of Network.
  • The younger generation is going to get tired quickly of the rapid change in employment and treating employees like they are on a conveyor belt.

 

Quote of the Show:

24:31 “Hospitality right now is in a place where we need to rethink our model. Restaurants were already struggling. We need to rethink that model, we need to make it more human and people centered. We need to make sure people can afford to  live and work off their salary. We need to do the same thing in hotels. We need to make sure the front staff is just as respected as the office staff and that they have a livable wage. That’s a larger conversation but it goes to every aspect of what it means to serve. If you're in the service industry, and you’re providing food and you’re serving food and you can’t even afford the food you’re serving, that’s a problem.”

 

 

Links: 


Shout Outs: 

3:54 Ramada Inn and Hotel

12:38 Ramada Inn University and Hotel in Columbus, Ohio

31:15 Westin Hotels

31:30 Equinox Hotels

32:38 Scent Dawn and Samantha Goldworm

49:19 Hoffman Process

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Hospitality and Journalism - Cameron Sperance - Episode # 012 12 12 Hospitality and Journalism - Cameron Sperance - Episode # 012 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/0295d1e5-3f8f-320a-a22d-49b17159951e https://share.transistor.fm/s/64399790 The hospitality industry has roots in all sorts of other lines of work, even in journalism. 

Dan is joined by the author of the Moon Boston Travel guide and world traveler, Cameron Sperance! Cameron is also a hospitality beat reporter at Skift. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to providing that home away from home experience. It’s all about providing caring service with a smile and making a pleasant stay for the guests. 
  • You can tell if people are being treated well at the hotel they work at by the way they treat their guests, and a positive attitude creates a better experience.
  • In Cameron’s experience reporting about hospitality, you have to build genuine connections with people.
  • During the pandemic, many industries have tried to replicate how the hospitality industry makes their guests feel, showing that hospitality has its roots in many industries.
  • The concept of doing some self isolation and meditation has taken off in recent years, and it’s a great way to recharge with a busy life. 
  • There is a lot of tension around who will stick in the hospitality industry in terms of the labor level employees, the ones who work long hours and demanding schedules. 
  • A struggle some hotels face is finding the balance between being exclusive while also being fair to your clients and guests. 


 

Quote of the Show:

28:33 “There was always a hospitality element to how we work that I think that's why it made it so successful and popular,  pre pandemic.

And I mean, it just kind of runs the gamut. There's so many different, Industries out there that are trying to get a little bit more hospitable that I think this has been a wake-up call of just like how the tentacles of hospitality span out into so many different industries.” 

 

Links: 


 

Shout Outs: 

 

2:41 Boston Bureau 

2:51 Ghelfi and Laura Posa

3:04 Skift

4:16 Alice conference 

8:01 Daily Planet from Superman

8:01 J. Jonah Jameson from Spider-Man

8:41 Boston Herald

11:14 Wall Street Journal

11:15 The Real Deal

11:16 The New York Times

12:01 Boston University School of Hospitality

12:02 Pinnacle Advisory

17:20 Hilton

17:21 Marriott

21:18 Soho House

21:19 Rosewood in Hong Kong

32:54 Walden Pond

33:04 Henry David Thoreau

32:20 Parker Torres

35:39 The Lorraine Motel 

37:06 Dubrovnik, Croatia

37:30 Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones

41:46 Russian River

52:16 SoulCycle

52:22 Equinox

56:46 Michael  Lastoria

 

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> The hospitality industry has roots in all sorts of other lines of work, even in journalism. 

Dan is joined by the author of the Moon Boston Travel guide and world traveler, Cameron Sperance! Cameron is also a hospitality beat reporter at Skift. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to providing that home away from home experience. It’s all about providing caring service with a smile and making a pleasant stay for the guests. 
  • You can tell if people are being treated well at the hotel they work at by the way they treat their guests, and a positive attitude creates a better experience.
  • In Cameron’s experience reporting about hospitality, you have to build genuine connections with people.
  • During the pandemic, many industries have tried to replicate how the hospitality industry makes their guests feel, showing that hospitality has its roots in many industries.
  • The concept of doing some self isolation and meditation has taken off in recent years, and it’s a great way to recharge with a busy life. 
  • There is a lot of tension around who will stick in the hospitality industry in terms of the labor level employees, the ones who work long hours and demanding schedules. 
  • A struggle some hotels face is finding the balance between being exclusive while also being fair to your clients and guests. 


 

Quote of the Show:

28:33 “There was always a hospitality element to how we work that I think that's why it made it so successful and popular,  pre pandemic.

And I mean, it just kind of runs the gamut. There's so many different, Industries out there that are trying to get a little bit more hospitable that I think this has been a wake-up call of just like how the tentacles of hospitality span out into so many different industries.” 

 

Links: 


 

Shout Outs: 

 

2:41 Boston Bureau 

2:51 Ghelfi and Laura Posa

3:04 Skift

4:16 Alice conference 

8:01 Daily Planet from Superman

8:01 J. Jonah Jameson from Spider-Man

8:41 Boston Herald

11:14 Wall Street Journal

11:15 The Real Deal

11:16 The New York Times

12:01 Boston University School of Hospitality

12:02 Pinnacle Advisory

17:20 Hilton

17:21 Marriott

21:18 Soho House

21:19 Rosewood in Hong Kong

32:54 Walden Pond

33:04 Henry David Thoreau

32:20 Parker Torres

35:39 The Lorraine Motel 

37:06 Dubrovnik, Croatia

37:30 Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones

41:46 Russian River

52:16 SoulCycle

52:22 Equinox

56:46 Michael  Lastoria

 

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 06 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3893 The hospitality industry has roots in all sorts of other lines of work, even in journalism. 

Dan is joined by the author of the Moon Boston Travel guide and world traveler, Cameron Sperance! Cameron is also a hospitality beat reporter at Skift. Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • Hospitality boils down to providing that home away from home experience. It’s all about providing caring service with a smile and making a pleasant stay for the guests. 
  • You can tell if people are being treated well at the hotel they work at by the way they treat their guests, and a positive attitude creates a better experience.
  • In Cameron’s experience reporting about hospitality, you have to build genuine connections with people.
  • During the pandemic, many industries have tried to replicate how the hospitality industry makes their guests feel, showing that hospitality has its roots in many industries.
  • The concept of doing some self isolation and meditation has taken off in recent years, and it’s a great way to recharge with a busy life. 
  • There is a lot of tension around who will stick in the hospitality industry in terms of the labor level employees, the ones who work long hours and demanding schedules. 
  • A struggle some hotels face is finding the balance between being exclusive while also being fair to your clients and guests. 


 

Quote of the Show:

28:33 “There was always a hospitality element to how we work that I think that's why it made it so successful and popular,  pre pandemic.

And I mean, it just kind of runs the gamut. There's so many different, Industries out there that are trying to get a little bit more hospitable that I think this has been a wake-up call of just like how the tentacles of hospitality span out into so many different industries.” 

 

Links: 


 

Shout Outs: 

 

2:41 Boston Bureau 

2:51 Ghelfi and Laura Posa

3:04 Skift

4:16 Alice conference 

8:01 Daily Planet from Superman

8:01 J. Jonah Jameson from Spider-Man

8:41 Boston Herald

11:14 Wall Street Journal

11:15 The Real Deal

11:16 The New York Times

12:01 Boston University School of Hospitality

12:02 Pinnacle Advisory

17:20 Hilton

17:21 Marriott

21:18 Soho House

21:19 Rosewood in Hong Kong

32:54 Walden Pond

33:04 Henry David Thoreau

32:20 Parker Torres

35:39 The Lorraine Motel 

37:06 Dubrovnik, Croatia

37:30 Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones

41:46 Russian River

52:16 SoulCycle

52:22 Equinox

56:46 Michael  Lastoria

 

 Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Designing for the Next Generation - Glen Coben and Maya Coben - Episode #011 11 11 Designing for the Next Generation - Glen Coben and Maya Coben - Episode #011 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/0c4a97ca-5c2c-3ead-8fd3-3535701f7395 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0fd4781e When you design your space, are you thinking about the next generation? In this week’s episode, Dan Ryan is joined by Glen Coben, President of Glen & Company, and his daughter Maya Coben of Rialto Capital for our first ever double guest episode! Listen in as they share their combined, multi-generational perspective on the future of hospitality, nurturing growth, developing intuition, and more great insights!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Hospitality is about creating a community. We can build community by having empathy and listening to others, and pivoting to whatever the guest needs to feel like they’re most important.
  • Work for the people instead of yourself. Identify the unique aspects of your client’s vision by approaching them with empathy and understanding.
  • When you design a space, it’s not just for the current generation. You’re designing for the next generation as well. “The best way to stay relevant is to make sure that your 12-year-old child is teaching you” - Glen Coben 
  • Nurture growth within your own company by giving people opportunities to learn and develop. The mutual desire for success can lead to more than just satisfied clients. 
  • Negative feedback can be an opportunity to delight a client on the next revision, but success doesn’t have to be based on fear and intimidation. Hospitality and empathy drive successful students and future industry leaders. 
  • Glen’s most important question when taking on new clients; Who is going to be making the decisions? The best answers to that question are the honest answers. If the whole family is going to review and approve a presentation, they should be in the room so they have all the information. 
  • Intuition is built not just by listening and learning, but by asking questions. Be a sponge.
  • Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know the answer.” Asking for more information is a sign of strength, not weakness. Be okay with feeling that nervous energy, because it’s a sign that growth is coming!
  • One positive change from the pandemic: taking non local projects becomes easier. Collaboration tools will always be better in person, but our ability to adapt to remote working enables us to think more globally about new opportunities. 

 

Quote of the Show:

22:46 - You remember those days when we were talking about “how do you design for the millennial?” That bothered me because the millennial is going to no longer want that cool hip thing. So we have to figure out a way to strike a balance through our design skills, that there are Instagram moments, there is technology, but there's also, we're designing across a broader spectrum. - Glen Coben

53:07 -  I think that asking questions is the most important thing. And whenever I ask at the end of an interview, or just any conversation I have with anyone, a mentor, a friend, what advice do you have for me? Ask questions, be a sponge. Those are the two main things that I've heard time and time again. How can you learn as much as humanly possible in your career and through each experience that you're a part of? - Maya Coben

 

 

Links: Guest’s info

 

Shout Outs: 

4:20 - Danney Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group - “Hospitality is a Team Sport”

7:19 - Stacey Shoemaker’s HD Summit 

8:50 - The Architect’s Cookbook, Max & The Magic Mushroom

10:10 - Grey Kunz 

11:53 - The French Laundry 

16:13 - Gabriel Kreuther

35:36 - William Grimes of the New York Times, Moda

59:59 - Nervous Energy by Dr. Chloe Carmichael 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> When you design your space, are you thinking about the next generation? In this week’s episode, Dan Ryan is joined by Glen Coben, President of Glen & Company, and his daughter Maya Coben of Rialto Capital for our first ever double guest episode! Listen in as they share their combined, multi-generational perspective on the future of hospitality, nurturing growth, developing intuition, and more great insights!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Hospitality is about creating a community. We can build community by having empathy and listening to others, and pivoting to whatever the guest needs to feel like they’re most important.
  • Work for the people instead of yourself. Identify the unique aspects of your client’s vision by approaching them with empathy and understanding.
  • When you design a space, it’s not just for the current generation. You’re designing for the next generation as well. “The best way to stay relevant is to make sure that your 12-year-old child is teaching you” - Glen Coben 
  • Nurture growth within your own company by giving people opportunities to learn and develop. The mutual desire for success can lead to more than just satisfied clients. 
  • Negative feedback can be an opportunity to delight a client on the next revision, but success doesn’t have to be based on fear and intimidation. Hospitality and empathy drive successful students and future industry leaders. 
  • Glen’s most important question when taking on new clients; Who is going to be making the decisions? The best answers to that question are the honest answers. If the whole family is going to review and approve a presentation, they should be in the room so they have all the information. 
  • Intuition is built not just by listening and learning, but by asking questions. Be a sponge.
  • Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know the answer.” Asking for more information is a sign of strength, not weakness. Be okay with feeling that nervous energy, because it’s a sign that growth is coming!
  • One positive change from the pandemic: taking non local projects becomes easier. Collaboration tools will always be better in person, but our ability to adapt to remote working enables us to think more globally about new opportunities. 

 

Quote of the Show:

22:46 - You remember those days when we were talking about “how do you design for the millennial?” That bothered me because the millennial is going to no longer want that cool hip thing. So we have to figure out a way to strike a balance through our design skills, that there are Instagram moments, there is technology, but there's also, we're designing across a broader spectrum. - Glen Coben

53:07 -  I think that asking questions is the most important thing. And whenever I ask at the end of an interview, or just any conversation I have with anyone, a mentor, a friend, what advice do you have for me? Ask questions, be a sponge. Those are the two main things that I've heard time and time again. How can you learn as much as humanly possible in your career and through each experience that you're a part of? - Maya Coben

 

 

Links: Guest’s info

 

Shout Outs: 

4:20 - Danney Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group - “Hospitality is a Team Sport”

7:19 - Stacey Shoemaker’s HD Summit 

8:50 - The Architect’s Cookbook, Max & The Magic Mushroom

10:10 - Grey Kunz 

11:53 - The French Laundry 

16:13 - Gabriel Kreuther

35:36 - William Grimes of the New York Times, Moda

59:59 - Nervous Energy by Dr. Chloe Carmichael 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4453 When you design your space, are you thinking about the next generation? In this week’s episode, Dan Ryan is joined by Glen Coben, President of Glen & Company, and his daughter Maya Coben of Rialto Capital for our first ever double guest episode! Listen in as they share their combined, multi-generational perspective on the future of hospitality, nurturing growth, developing intuition, and more great insights!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Hospitality is about creating a community. We can build community by having empathy and listening to others, and pivoting to whatever the guest needs to feel like they’re most important.
  • Work for the people instead of yourself. Identify the unique aspects of your client’s vision by approaching them with empathy and understanding.
  • When you design a space, it’s not just for the current generation. You’re designing for the next generation as well. “The best way to stay relevant is to make sure that your 12-year-old child is teaching you” - Glen Coben 
  • Nurture growth within your own company by giving people opportunities to learn and develop. The mutual desire for success can lead to more than just satisfied clients. 
  • Negative feedback can be an opportunity to delight a client on the next revision, but success doesn’t have to be based on fear and intimidation. Hospitality and empathy drive successful students and future industry leaders. 
  • Glen’s most important question when taking on new clients; Who is going to be making the decisions? The best answers to that question are the honest answers. If the whole family is going to review and approve a presentation, they should be in the room so they have all the information. 
  • Intuition is built not just by listening and learning, but by asking questions. Be a sponge.
  • Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know the answer.” Asking for more information is a sign of strength, not weakness. Be okay with feeling that nervous energy, because it’s a sign that growth is coming!
  • One positive change from the pandemic: taking non local projects becomes easier. Collaboration tools will always be better in person, but our ability to adapt to remote working enables us to think more globally about new opportunities. 

 

Quote of the Show:

22:46 - You remember those days when we were talking about “how do you design for the millennial?” That bothered me because the millennial is going to no longer want that cool hip thing. So we have to figure out a way to strike a balance through our design skills, that there are Instagram moments, there is technology, but there's also, we're designing across a broader spectrum. - Glen Coben

53:07 -  I think that asking questions is the most important thing. And whenever I ask at the end of an interview, or just any conversation I have with anyone, a mentor, a friend, what advice do you have for me? Ask questions, be a sponge. Those are the two main things that I've heard time and time again. How can you learn as much as humanly possible in your career and through each experience that you're a part of? - Maya Coben

 

 

Links: Guest’s info

 

Shout Outs: 

4:20 - Danney Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group - “Hospitality is a Team Sport”

7:19 - Stacey Shoemaker’s HD Summit 

8:50 - The Architect’s Cookbook, Max & The Magic Mushroom

10:10 - Grey Kunz 

11:53 - The French Laundry 

16:13 - Gabriel Kreuther

35:36 - William Grimes of the New York Times, Moda

59:59 - Nervous Energy by Dr. Chloe Carmichael 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Traveling Solves Everything - Margaret McMahon - Episode #010 10 10 Traveling Solves Everything - Margaret McMahon - Episode #010 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/6b44fe76-95fe-3465-aacb-eaa578af9337 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f95dfe88 For the last year and a half, people have holed up in their rooms, unable to go anywhere. Now more than ever is when people are craving the need to explore, travel and interact with other people. 

Dan is joined by thought leader in the industry, SVP and global director of Wimberly Interiors, Margaret McMahon! Margaret has seen the world and is a travel enthusiast, and she’s here to share why she thinks travel can really lift someone’s spirits. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • You can go and get anything you set your mind to. Using phrases like “call me back if you want” won’t do you any favors. 
  • Visualisations of what you want to achieve are incredibly important. Creating a vision board can often help you focus your goals and terms and make them achievable. 
  • Travel is incredibly important. It doesn’t matter whether you are down the street or going across to another country, seeing the beauty in this world is something that can provide a whole new outlook on life. 
  • Hospitality is all about service and whatever that means. It’s not just delivering room service but it’s a service that is provided to give an experience. 
  • You have to be able to read a room and understand what is appropriate and what isn’t. Not only do other cultures view actions in a certain way, but even other co-workers might not think like you do.
  • We all have to want each other to succeed. In this day and age, everything is extremely competitive but we still need to be human and hope for the best for everyone, including the competition. 
  • Residential projects have skyrocketed lately. With people moving away from the cities, the need for residential projects and houses has really exploded since the start of the pandemic. 
  • Margaret’s advice to her younger self: Lighten up. We all do a million different things each day but we should try to lighten up. 


Quote of the Show:

11:05 “Whether you're driving down the road to a Holiday Inn Express, or you’re hopping on a plane, or you’re taking a road trip or you’re glamping, whatever it is, I think that brings joy to everyone. I bet that if you were to survey people that have been holed up in their houses for a year and half, everyone is really craving not only travel but interaction. 

I think that what’s really about is all us giving service to create a memorable experience and bring joy to people. I know that sounds super lofty, you’re not finding the cure for cancer, you’re not splitting the atom or anything like that. Whether you're staying in an AirBnB, whether you’re staying in a pension, whether you’re staying in a tent, traveling our planet to be able to see it is a really beautiful thing.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:33 The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer

 

5:38 Slaughterhouse 5  by Kurt Vonnegut

 

6:10 Rodney Dangerfield’s film, “Back to School”

 

7:26 Margo House

 

8:43 Charian Cerilo 

 

8:54 Hotelier of the year award

 

9:13 Four Seasons

 

9:14 Ian Schrager

 

9:20 Forbes Travel

 

11:05 Holiday Inn Express

 

12:27 AirBnB

 

17:06 Pan-Am

 

23:03 Wimberly Interiors

 

25:11 Trishia Wilson

 

25:52 Entenmann’s Donuts

 

32:30 Soho House

 

39:34 Starbucks

 

42:35 Boca Raton Resort

 

44:34 Laws of Attraction book

 

55:52 Dr. Faucci

 

1;01:11 Balthazar Restaurant

 

1;02:03 Bill Murray in Stripes


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> For the last year and a half, people have holed up in their rooms, unable to go anywhere. Now more than ever is when people are craving the need to explore, travel and interact with other people. 

Dan is joined by thought leader in the industry, SVP and global director of Wimberly Interiors, Margaret McMahon! Margaret has seen the world and is a travel enthusiast, and she’s here to share why she thinks travel can really lift someone’s spirits. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • You can go and get anything you set your mind to. Using phrases like “call me back if you want” won’t do you any favors. 
  • Visualisations of what you want to achieve are incredibly important. Creating a vision board can often help you focus your goals and terms and make them achievable. 
  • Travel is incredibly important. It doesn’t matter whether you are down the street or going across to another country, seeing the beauty in this world is something that can provide a whole new outlook on life. 
  • Hospitality is all about service and whatever that means. It’s not just delivering room service but it’s a service that is provided to give an experience. 
  • You have to be able to read a room and understand what is appropriate and what isn’t. Not only do other cultures view actions in a certain way, but even other co-workers might not think like you do.
  • We all have to want each other to succeed. In this day and age, everything is extremely competitive but we still need to be human and hope for the best for everyone, including the competition. 
  • Residential projects have skyrocketed lately. With people moving away from the cities, the need for residential projects and houses has really exploded since the start of the pandemic. 
  • Margaret’s advice to her younger self: Lighten up. We all do a million different things each day but we should try to lighten up. 


Quote of the Show:

11:05 “Whether you're driving down the road to a Holiday Inn Express, or you’re hopping on a plane, or you’re taking a road trip or you’re glamping, whatever it is, I think that brings joy to everyone. I bet that if you were to survey people that have been holed up in their houses for a year and half, everyone is really craving not only travel but interaction. 

I think that what’s really about is all us giving service to create a memorable experience and bring joy to people. I know that sounds super lofty, you’re not finding the cure for cancer, you’re not splitting the atom or anything like that. Whether you're staying in an AirBnB, whether you’re staying in a pension, whether you’re staying in a tent, traveling our planet to be able to see it is a really beautiful thing.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:33 The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer

 

5:38 Slaughterhouse 5  by Kurt Vonnegut

 

6:10 Rodney Dangerfield’s film, “Back to School”

 

7:26 Margo House

 

8:43 Charian Cerilo 

 

8:54 Hotelier of the year award

 

9:13 Four Seasons

 

9:14 Ian Schrager

 

9:20 Forbes Travel

 

11:05 Holiday Inn Express

 

12:27 AirBnB

 

17:06 Pan-Am

 

23:03 Wimberly Interiors

 

25:11 Trishia Wilson

 

25:52 Entenmann’s Donuts

 

32:30 Soho House

 

39:34 Starbucks

 

42:35 Boca Raton Resort

 

44:34 Laws of Attraction book

 

55:52 Dr. Faucci

 

1;01:11 Balthazar Restaurant

 

1;02:03 Bill Murray in Stripes


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 29 Sep 2021 09:04:20 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3909 For the last year and a half, people have holed up in their rooms, unable to go anywhere. Now more than ever is when people are craving the need to explore, travel and interact with other people. 

Dan is joined by thought leader in the industry, SVP and global director of Wimberly Interiors, Margaret McMahon! Margaret has seen the world and is a travel enthusiast, and she’s here to share why she thinks travel can really lift someone’s spirits. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

 

Takeaways: 

  • You can go and get anything you set your mind to. Using phrases like “call me back if you want” won’t do you any favors. 
  • Visualisations of what you want to achieve are incredibly important. Creating a vision board can often help you focus your goals and terms and make them achievable. 
  • Travel is incredibly important. It doesn’t matter whether you are down the street or going across to another country, seeing the beauty in this world is something that can provide a whole new outlook on life. 
  • Hospitality is all about service and whatever that means. It’s not just delivering room service but it’s a service that is provided to give an experience. 
  • You have to be able to read a room and understand what is appropriate and what isn’t. Not only do other cultures view actions in a certain way, but even other co-workers might not think like you do.
  • We all have to want each other to succeed. In this day and age, everything is extremely competitive but we still need to be human and hope for the best for everyone, including the competition. 
  • Residential projects have skyrocketed lately. With people moving away from the cities, the need for residential projects and houses has really exploded since the start of the pandemic. 
  • Margaret’s advice to her younger self: Lighten up. We all do a million different things each day but we should try to lighten up. 


Quote of the Show:

11:05 “Whether you're driving down the road to a Holiday Inn Express, or you’re hopping on a plane, or you’re taking a road trip or you’re glamping, whatever it is, I think that brings joy to everyone. I bet that if you were to survey people that have been holed up in their houses for a year and half, everyone is really craving not only travel but interaction. 

I think that what’s really about is all us giving service to create a memorable experience and bring joy to people. I know that sounds super lofty, you’re not finding the cure for cancer, you’re not splitting the atom or anything like that. Whether you're staying in an AirBnB, whether you’re staying in a pension, whether you’re staying in a tent, traveling our planet to be able to see it is a really beautiful thing.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

3:33 The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer

 

5:38 Slaughterhouse 5  by Kurt Vonnegut

 

6:10 Rodney Dangerfield’s film, “Back to School”

 

7:26 Margo House

 

8:43 Charian Cerilo 

 

8:54 Hotelier of the year award

 

9:13 Four Seasons

 

9:14 Ian Schrager

 

9:20 Forbes Travel

 

11:05 Holiday Inn Express

 

12:27 AirBnB

 

17:06 Pan-Am

 

23:03 Wimberly Interiors

 

25:11 Trishia Wilson

 

25:52 Entenmann’s Donuts

 

32:30 Soho House

 

39:34 Starbucks

 

42:35 Boca Raton Resort

 

44:34 Laws of Attraction book

 

55:52 Dr. Faucci

 

1;01:11 Balthazar Restaurant

 

1;02:03 Bill Murray in Stripes


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan The Bright Side of Life - Glenn Haussman - Episode #009 9 9 The Bright Side of Life - Glenn Haussman - Episode #009 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/57c8bd02-9215-34e1-9d7a-c11b1a3dbded https://share.transistor.fm/s/313ad5b9 Having a positive outlook on life is the key to success.

 

Dan is joined by industry thought leader, former adjunct at NYU and host of the “No Vacancy” podcast, Glenn Haussman. Glenn is also the board member at the Long Island Hospitality Association and the president of Rouse Media.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true spirit of hospitality is the notion of giving without expecting anything in return. 
  • If you show interest in what people are saying, are genuine and positive, people will feel comfortable with you and that can create great connections. 
  • As times change, it’s always good to try and adapt to what the new times bring.
  • Always push harder than the next person, the hard work will pay off in the long run.
  • All the old rules that hospitality used to follow are out the window and now is the time to challenge yourself and try new business strategies.
  • You can use technology to understand your guests. Find out what your guests like and try to connect with them on that level.
  • Mass customization is the notion of creating individualized experiences for the masses of people. 
  • Don’t let the fear of rejection hold you back. The only thing holding you back is yourself and how you feel about yourself. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

7:34 “Back in the 1990’s as I was starting my career in hospitality, my buddy happened to be an extremely successful video editor. He was like the guy cutting every single hip hop video you would see on MTV, BET and those networks. I went with him to go run the business side of it for him as I was building my writing career. 

 

Every single person I met in that Hollywood music universe, and I met a lot of people, 99% of them were not people I want to have anything to do within my life. Nasty, negative, not the right type of human beings. 

 

In hospitality, it’s completely flipped on its head. Nearly everybody is universally amazing, open and terrific.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:30 NYU

 

1:01 BDNY Trade Show

 

5:56 No Vacancy live podcast

 

7:44 MTV, BET

 

27:54 The Adapters book

 

28:12  Seán Worker

 

29:14 The Adaptors.net

 

32:12 Phish

 

41:08 Hunter Conference 

 

44:44 Jon Stewart, Remote Control TV show

 

44:56 Jimmy Kimmel, Win Ben Stein's Money TV show

 

47:19 The Big Cypress Indian Reservation, Florida


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Having a positive outlook on life is the key to success.

 

Dan is joined by industry thought leader, former adjunct at NYU and host of the “No Vacancy” podcast, Glenn Haussman. Glenn is also the board member at the Long Island Hospitality Association and the president of Rouse Media.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true spirit of hospitality is the notion of giving without expecting anything in return. 
  • If you show interest in what people are saying, are genuine and positive, people will feel comfortable with you and that can create great connections. 
  • As times change, it’s always good to try and adapt to what the new times bring.
  • Always push harder than the next person, the hard work will pay off in the long run.
  • All the old rules that hospitality used to follow are out the window and now is the time to challenge yourself and try new business strategies.
  • You can use technology to understand your guests. Find out what your guests like and try to connect with them on that level.
  • Mass customization is the notion of creating individualized experiences for the masses of people. 
  • Don’t let the fear of rejection hold you back. The only thing holding you back is yourself and how you feel about yourself. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

7:34 “Back in the 1990’s as I was starting my career in hospitality, my buddy happened to be an extremely successful video editor. He was like the guy cutting every single hip hop video you would see on MTV, BET and those networks. I went with him to go run the business side of it for him as I was building my writing career. 

 

Every single person I met in that Hollywood music universe, and I met a lot of people, 99% of them were not people I want to have anything to do within my life. Nasty, negative, not the right type of human beings. 

 

In hospitality, it’s completely flipped on its head. Nearly everybody is universally amazing, open and terrific.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:30 NYU

 

1:01 BDNY Trade Show

 

5:56 No Vacancy live podcast

 

7:44 MTV, BET

 

27:54 The Adapters book

 

28:12  Seán Worker

 

29:14 The Adaptors.net

 

32:12 Phish

 

41:08 Hunter Conference 

 

44:44 Jon Stewart, Remote Control TV show

 

44:56 Jimmy Kimmel, Win Ben Stein's Money TV show

 

47:19 The Big Cypress Indian Reservation, Florida


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Fri, 24 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3026 Having a positive outlook on life is the key to success.

 

Dan is joined by industry thought leader, former adjunct at NYU and host of the “No Vacancy” podcast, Glenn Haussman. Glenn is also the board member at the Long Island Hospitality Association and the president of Rouse Media.  Listen to this week’s episode as he shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Takeaways: 

  • The true spirit of hospitality is the notion of giving without expecting anything in return. 
  • If you show interest in what people are saying, are genuine and positive, people will feel comfortable with you and that can create great connections. 
  • As times change, it’s always good to try and adapt to what the new times bring.
  • Always push harder than the next person, the hard work will pay off in the long run.
  • All the old rules that hospitality used to follow are out the window and now is the time to challenge yourself and try new business strategies.
  • You can use technology to understand your guests. Find out what your guests like and try to connect with them on that level.
  • Mass customization is the notion of creating individualized experiences for the masses of people. 
  • Don’t let the fear of rejection hold you back. The only thing holding you back is yourself and how you feel about yourself. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

7:34 “Back in the 1990’s as I was starting my career in hospitality, my buddy happened to be an extremely successful video editor. He was like the guy cutting every single hip hop video you would see on MTV, BET and those networks. I went with him to go run the business side of it for him as I was building my writing career. 

 

Every single person I met in that Hollywood music universe, and I met a lot of people, 99% of them were not people I want to have anything to do within my life. Nasty, negative, not the right type of human beings. 

 

In hospitality, it’s completely flipped on its head. Nearly everybody is universally amazing, open and terrific.”


Links: 


Shout Outs: 

 

0:30 NYU

 

1:01 BDNY Trade Show

 

5:56 No Vacancy live podcast

 

7:44 MTV, BET

 

27:54 The Adapters book

 

28:12  Seán Worker

 

29:14 The Adaptors.net

 

32:12 Phish

 

41:08 Hunter Conference 

 

44:44 Jon Stewart, Remote Control TV show

 

44:56 Jimmy Kimmel, Win Ben Stein's Money TV show

 

47:19 The Big Cypress Indian Reservation, Florida


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Concierges Are The Original Influencers - Sarah Dandashy - Episode #008 8 8 Concierges Are The Original Influencers - Sarah Dandashy - Episode #008 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/543c4aa6-2605-311e-a76e-6b2b2bb8c2cd https://share.transistor.fm/s/69637dba How do you stay positive when you’re emotionally drained?

Sarah Dandashy of AskAConcierge likes to remember that every guest interaction is a chance to be a part of someone’s positive memory. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Though she first found success on Instagram, Sarah finds LinkedIn is a powerful way to grow her network. It’s not just a great way to connect with others in #hospitality and #travel, it’s a platform that values substance. 
  • The concierge is the original influencer. They take their first hand experiences in travel and introduce others to new opportunities.
  • “Sometimes thoughtful things don’t cost that much. It could be a handwritten note or a cocktail.” - Sarah Dandashy. It’s the time invested that’s meaningful to your customer. 
  • Anticipation is a powerful tool for great guest experiences, but presentation matters. Too much personalization can be creepy, so aim for thoughtfulness. 
  • The most impactful ways to provide hospitality are often simple. Most of the time, people just want to feel listened to. 
  • “If you change your mindset and just get creative about it, it’s amazing what you can do.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Recommendations are better when you take the time to understand the guest. Talk with them to find out more about their desired experience. 
  • We need to take care of the frontlines of our industry. If you want people to treat this as a profession, you need to treat them like professionals.
  • “if we just always keep our mind open and we just have these real conversations with our colleagues in whatever field they're in, it's amazing what we can learn from each other.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Sarah’s advice to her younger self: always remember you get to be a part of somebody’s positive memory

 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 - “But it was this intersection between human connection and thoughtful experience because really when you, when you look at it, hospitality, it is all about the human connection. Yes. There might be a digital aspect, but it's all about connecting on that human level. That's where hospitality comes from, you know, way back when, where people inviting people to their homes, like they're breaking bread over, over a meal, that's all hospitality and that's a human connection.

And then the thoughtful experiences. Are what make it unique and make it special? You know, it's more than just inviting somebody into your home or having somebody over for dinner. It's having those conversations and, and it is finding those thoughtful experiences, whether it's playing on something like, oh, I know . That you really love XYZ and tying that into it.

So all of that kind of ties in into really what I think makes hospitality that. The good stuff that we love.” - Sarah Dandashy


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

18:14 - Le Clefs d’Or Concierge

13:58 - Ritz Carlton in Berlin

43:19 - Christian Giordano (from Defining Hospitality Episode 7) 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you stay positive when you’re emotionally drained?

Sarah Dandashy of AskAConcierge likes to remember that every guest interaction is a chance to be a part of someone’s positive memory. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Though she first found success on Instagram, Sarah finds LinkedIn is a powerful way to grow her network. It’s not just a great way to connect with others in #hospitality and #travel, it’s a platform that values substance. 
  • The concierge is the original influencer. They take their first hand experiences in travel and introduce others to new opportunities.
  • “Sometimes thoughtful things don’t cost that much. It could be a handwritten note or a cocktail.” - Sarah Dandashy. It’s the time invested that’s meaningful to your customer. 
  • Anticipation is a powerful tool for great guest experiences, but presentation matters. Too much personalization can be creepy, so aim for thoughtfulness. 
  • The most impactful ways to provide hospitality are often simple. Most of the time, people just want to feel listened to. 
  • “If you change your mindset and just get creative about it, it’s amazing what you can do.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Recommendations are better when you take the time to understand the guest. Talk with them to find out more about their desired experience. 
  • We need to take care of the frontlines of our industry. If you want people to treat this as a profession, you need to treat them like professionals.
  • “if we just always keep our mind open and we just have these real conversations with our colleagues in whatever field they're in, it's amazing what we can learn from each other.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Sarah’s advice to her younger self: always remember you get to be a part of somebody’s positive memory

 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 - “But it was this intersection between human connection and thoughtful experience because really when you, when you look at it, hospitality, it is all about the human connection. Yes. There might be a digital aspect, but it's all about connecting on that human level. That's where hospitality comes from, you know, way back when, where people inviting people to their homes, like they're breaking bread over, over a meal, that's all hospitality and that's a human connection.

And then the thoughtful experiences. Are what make it unique and make it special? You know, it's more than just inviting somebody into your home or having somebody over for dinner. It's having those conversations and, and it is finding those thoughtful experiences, whether it's playing on something like, oh, I know . That you really love XYZ and tying that into it.

So all of that kind of ties in into really what I think makes hospitality that. The good stuff that we love.” - Sarah Dandashy


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

18:14 - Le Clefs d’Or Concierge

13:58 - Ritz Carlton in Berlin

43:19 - Christian Giordano (from Defining Hospitality Episode 7) 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3580 How do you stay positive when you’re emotionally drained?

Sarah Dandashy of AskAConcierge likes to remember that every guest interaction is a chance to be a part of someone’s positive memory. Listen to this week’s episode as she shares #hospitality insights with Dan Ryan today!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Though she first found success on Instagram, Sarah finds LinkedIn is a powerful way to grow her network. It’s not just a great way to connect with others in #hospitality and #travel, it’s a platform that values substance. 
  • The concierge is the original influencer. They take their first hand experiences in travel and introduce others to new opportunities.
  • “Sometimes thoughtful things don’t cost that much. It could be a handwritten note or a cocktail.” - Sarah Dandashy. It’s the time invested that’s meaningful to your customer. 
  • Anticipation is a powerful tool for great guest experiences, but presentation matters. Too much personalization can be creepy, so aim for thoughtfulness. 
  • The most impactful ways to provide hospitality are often simple. Most of the time, people just want to feel listened to. 
  • “If you change your mindset and just get creative about it, it’s amazing what you can do.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Recommendations are better when you take the time to understand the guest. Talk with them to find out more about their desired experience. 
  • We need to take care of the frontlines of our industry. If you want people to treat this as a profession, you need to treat them like professionals.
  • “if we just always keep our mind open and we just have these real conversations with our colleagues in whatever field they're in, it's amazing what we can learn from each other.” - Sarah Dandashy
  • Sarah’s advice to her younger self: always remember you get to be a part of somebody’s positive memory

 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 - “But it was this intersection between human connection and thoughtful experience because really when you, when you look at it, hospitality, it is all about the human connection. Yes. There might be a digital aspect, but it's all about connecting on that human level. That's where hospitality comes from, you know, way back when, where people inviting people to their homes, like they're breaking bread over, over a meal, that's all hospitality and that's a human connection.

And then the thoughtful experiences. Are what make it unique and make it special? You know, it's more than just inviting somebody into your home or having somebody over for dinner. It's having those conversations and, and it is finding those thoughtful experiences, whether it's playing on something like, oh, I know . That you really love XYZ and tying that into it.

So all of that kind of ties in into really what I think makes hospitality that. The good stuff that we love.” - Sarah Dandashy


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

18:14 - Le Clefs d’Or Concierge

13:58 - Ritz Carlton in Berlin

43:19 - Christian Giordano (from Defining Hospitality Episode 7) 

 

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Black Capes & The Anti-Architect - Christian Giordano - Episode #007 7 7 Black Capes & The Anti-Architect - Christian Giordano - Episode #007 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/fa252aac-4a08-3318-9dd7-471c0b2c70e4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4fad71eb How do you handle unhappy clients?

 

Christian Giordano, President and co-owner of Mancini Duffy, approaches any situation by thinking about what he can do to improve it. He joins Dan Ryan to talk about #architecture, #hospitality, & more in this week’s episode. Check it out now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Christian’s show, The Anti-Architect Podcast, originated with his unique perspective on the architecture industry, and figuring out how to listen, understand, and connect with his clients. Whether you’re a black cape architect or a junior designer at a corporate firm. The best thing you can do is listen. 
  • Hospitality comes from incredible service and listening. From those two points, we can begin to anticipate customer needs and implement them into how we impact their experience. 
  • Giving clients more information up front can help facilitate decision making, especially since budget plays a critical factor. For example, Christian’s team shows different sized dollar signs ($) in early designs and discussions to give them a visual cue into their options. The reactions and conversations that come out of it can inform new and better ideas.
  • Building & maintaining culture during a pandemic is challenging, but Christian’s firm weathered it by having open, agendaless Zoom calls twice a week and being flexible with how people work. Giving everyone an opportunity to contribute, regardless of seniority or experience leads to better ideas and a more engaged workforce. 
  • It’s not our place to tell clients they’re wrong, it’s our place to come to them with a different solution.
  • Companies don’t have to follow their industry trends for workspaces anymore. Instead, they should focus on planning a space that works for them and their business’ specific needs.
  • Christian’s advice to his younger self: Enjoy the journey, and don’t be so stressed out along the way.

 

Quote of the Show:

32:36 - We have to respond to them a certain way. We always have to be positive. Right. You never want to tell a client? "No, you're wrong. No, that's ridiculous." I mean, as many times as you, you may want to, that's not really our place. I always found our place to be: we have to come back with a solution. If they're not happy or they don't think this is correct. Well then it's, it's not on them. It's on us to find the right solution. And most of the time I will say we do.

 

I think I take that approach on a lot of things is, "Well, maybe it's me." And I think if you take that approach, "Well, it's not them. So what am I doing wrong? How can I make this situation better?"  Because think about it, if you're in a situation and someone is beating up on you the entire time, you kind of lose interest in it and it's no fun anymore.

 

So that level of trying to figure out what is it that I can do to improve the situation? Always helps in that. And I think our clients appreciate that. You know, we don't say, "you're wrong or no, that's impossible. No that won't fit over there. Don't you understand scale?" You know? We will say, "No, let us take a look at it, and give you some options." And usually that works. - Christian Giordano 


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

1:40 - Carrie & Lauren of Brand Groupies 

6:20 - Gensler

9:43 - Isadore Sharp & the Four Seasons service model

19:15 - The Arlo Hotel in NYC

27:45 - Mancini Duffy Lux 

30:00 - Mark Green 

41:40 - UCLA’s faculty Frank Gary & Thom Mayne


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> How do you handle unhappy clients?

 

Christian Giordano, President and co-owner of Mancini Duffy, approaches any situation by thinking about what he can do to improve it. He joins Dan Ryan to talk about #architecture, #hospitality, & more in this week’s episode. Check it out now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Christian’s show, The Anti-Architect Podcast, originated with his unique perspective on the architecture industry, and figuring out how to listen, understand, and connect with his clients. Whether you’re a black cape architect or a junior designer at a corporate firm. The best thing you can do is listen. 
  • Hospitality comes from incredible service and listening. From those two points, we can begin to anticipate customer needs and implement them into how we impact their experience. 
  • Giving clients more information up front can help facilitate decision making, especially since budget plays a critical factor. For example, Christian’s team shows different sized dollar signs ($) in early designs and discussions to give them a visual cue into their options. The reactions and conversations that come out of it can inform new and better ideas.
  • Building & maintaining culture during a pandemic is challenging, but Christian’s firm weathered it by having open, agendaless Zoom calls twice a week and being flexible with how people work. Giving everyone an opportunity to contribute, regardless of seniority or experience leads to better ideas and a more engaged workforce. 
  • It’s not our place to tell clients they’re wrong, it’s our place to come to them with a different solution.
  • Companies don’t have to follow their industry trends for workspaces anymore. Instead, they should focus on planning a space that works for them and their business’ specific needs.
  • Christian’s advice to his younger self: Enjoy the journey, and don’t be so stressed out along the way.

 

Quote of the Show:

32:36 - We have to respond to them a certain way. We always have to be positive. Right. You never want to tell a client? "No, you're wrong. No, that's ridiculous." I mean, as many times as you, you may want to, that's not really our place. I always found our place to be: we have to come back with a solution. If they're not happy or they don't think this is correct. Well then it's, it's not on them. It's on us to find the right solution. And most of the time I will say we do.

 

I think I take that approach on a lot of things is, "Well, maybe it's me." And I think if you take that approach, "Well, it's not them. So what am I doing wrong? How can I make this situation better?"  Because think about it, if you're in a situation and someone is beating up on you the entire time, you kind of lose interest in it and it's no fun anymore.

 

So that level of trying to figure out what is it that I can do to improve the situation? Always helps in that. And I think our clients appreciate that. You know, we don't say, "you're wrong or no, that's impossible. No that won't fit over there. Don't you understand scale?" You know? We will say, "No, let us take a look at it, and give you some options." And usually that works. - Christian Giordano 


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

1:40 - Carrie & Lauren of Brand Groupies 

6:20 - Gensler

9:43 - Isadore Sharp & the Four Seasons service model

19:15 - The Arlo Hotel in NYC

27:45 - Mancini Duffy Lux 

30:00 - Mark Green 

41:40 - UCLA’s faculty Frank Gary & Thom Mayne


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 15 Sep 2021 08:39:29 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3183 How do you handle unhappy clients?

 

Christian Giordano, President and co-owner of Mancini Duffy, approaches any situation by thinking about what he can do to improve it. He joins Dan Ryan to talk about #architecture, #hospitality, & more in this week’s episode. Check it out now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Christian’s show, The Anti-Architect Podcast, originated with his unique perspective on the architecture industry, and figuring out how to listen, understand, and connect with his clients. Whether you’re a black cape architect or a junior designer at a corporate firm. The best thing you can do is listen. 
  • Hospitality comes from incredible service and listening. From those two points, we can begin to anticipate customer needs and implement them into how we impact their experience. 
  • Giving clients more information up front can help facilitate decision making, especially since budget plays a critical factor. For example, Christian’s team shows different sized dollar signs ($) in early designs and discussions to give them a visual cue into their options. The reactions and conversations that come out of it can inform new and better ideas.
  • Building & maintaining culture during a pandemic is challenging, but Christian’s firm weathered it by having open, agendaless Zoom calls twice a week and being flexible with how people work. Giving everyone an opportunity to contribute, regardless of seniority or experience leads to better ideas and a more engaged workforce. 
  • It’s not our place to tell clients they’re wrong, it’s our place to come to them with a different solution.
  • Companies don’t have to follow their industry trends for workspaces anymore. Instead, they should focus on planning a space that works for them and their business’ specific needs.
  • Christian’s advice to his younger self: Enjoy the journey, and don’t be so stressed out along the way.

 

Quote of the Show:

32:36 - We have to respond to them a certain way. We always have to be positive. Right. You never want to tell a client? "No, you're wrong. No, that's ridiculous." I mean, as many times as you, you may want to, that's not really our place. I always found our place to be: we have to come back with a solution. If they're not happy or they don't think this is correct. Well then it's, it's not on them. It's on us to find the right solution. And most of the time I will say we do.

 

I think I take that approach on a lot of things is, "Well, maybe it's me." And I think if you take that approach, "Well, it's not them. So what am I doing wrong? How can I make this situation better?"  Because think about it, if you're in a situation and someone is beating up on you the entire time, you kind of lose interest in it and it's no fun anymore.

 

So that level of trying to figure out what is it that I can do to improve the situation? Always helps in that. And I think our clients appreciate that. You know, we don't say, "you're wrong or no, that's impossible. No that won't fit over there. Don't you understand scale?" You know? We will say, "No, let us take a look at it, and give you some options." And usually that works. - Christian Giordano 


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

1:40 - Carrie & Lauren of Brand Groupies 

6:20 - Gensler

9:43 - Isadore Sharp & the Four Seasons service model

19:15 - The Arlo Hotel in NYC

27:45 - Mancini Duffy Lux 

30:00 - Mark Green 

41:40 - UCLA’s faculty Frank Gary & Thom Mayne


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Deep Unconditional Welcome - Hilary Illick - Defining Hospitality #006 6 6 Deep Unconditional Welcome - Hilary Illick - Defining Hospitality #006 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/22b3ec53-0f69-3240-baa6-1cb1410bd511 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a84d42e2 When was the last time you deeply listened to someone else? When was the last time you deeply listened to yourself?

 

Hilary Illick, senior faculty member at the Hoffman Institute, joins Dan Ryan to discuss open-hearted listening, #sustainability, creativity, and more on this new episode of Defining #Hospitality! Listen to this episode now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • The Hoffman Institute’s approach to hospitality is by meeting everyone with a deep unconditional welcome. Nonjudgemental listening gives people the opportunity to speak their truth. 
  • Teaching a disruptive student requires patience and listening. While it’s not good for the group if one student requires the majority of a teacher’s attention, what a disruptive student wants most is to be understood and soothed. 
  • Sustainability is something that’s being taken more into account in hospitality now, especially as investors begin to see the positive impacts both economic and environmental, and it’s important to consider as we continue to build into the future. 
  • “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually. I think. I think we really needed as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body, the body heals itself, the body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions.”
  • “I think the creative process is a process of deep listening. Actually, you're listening to spirit, you're listening to the creative muse. Michelangelo said, “David was in the stone.” He didn't think “Oh, I’m gonna make this man out of the stone.” He worked with the stone. He was actually listening to the contours of the rock to make this incredible statue.” - Hilary Illick
  • You have to create for your audience. “Who’s your psychographic? Who's the ideal person or people that you want walking through and smiling and laughing and being their best selves in this place?” - Dan Ryan
  • There’s so much neuroplasticity in the brain that it’s always possible to change and improve as a person. The brain is constantly rewiring itself and reforming, “You can absolutely regenerate right now” - Hilary Illick
  • The inequities in our world need to be discussed with open hearts and active listening. 
  • Writing can be a tremendous method of regenerating yourself, especially in conjunction with meditation and self-reflection. Like travel or new experiences, writing can be its own terrain of discovery.
  • Hilary’s most craved food - fresh green vegetables - “They make me feel cared for”
  • Hilary’s advice to her younger self: It’s trial and error. You’re not supposed to be someone, you already are who you are. You just need to listen to yourself to find out. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

20:52 “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually, I think we as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body. The body heals itself. The body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions. “ - Hilary Illick


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

17:10 - The Graduate in New Haven CT, Hotel One in Brooklyn NY

19:50 - Danny Meyer’s Hospitality Quotient

24:37 - Arthur, on PBS

40:17 - Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 system

45:31 - Bob Hoffman: “I’m changing the world one person at a time.” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> When was the last time you deeply listened to someone else? When was the last time you deeply listened to yourself?

 

Hilary Illick, senior faculty member at the Hoffman Institute, joins Dan Ryan to discuss open-hearted listening, #sustainability, creativity, and more on this new episode of Defining #Hospitality! Listen to this episode now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • The Hoffman Institute’s approach to hospitality is by meeting everyone with a deep unconditional welcome. Nonjudgemental listening gives people the opportunity to speak their truth. 
  • Teaching a disruptive student requires patience and listening. While it’s not good for the group if one student requires the majority of a teacher’s attention, what a disruptive student wants most is to be understood and soothed. 
  • Sustainability is something that’s being taken more into account in hospitality now, especially as investors begin to see the positive impacts both economic and environmental, and it’s important to consider as we continue to build into the future. 
  • “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually. I think. I think we really needed as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body, the body heals itself, the body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions.”
  • “I think the creative process is a process of deep listening. Actually, you're listening to spirit, you're listening to the creative muse. Michelangelo said, “David was in the stone.” He didn't think “Oh, I’m gonna make this man out of the stone.” He worked with the stone. He was actually listening to the contours of the rock to make this incredible statue.” - Hilary Illick
  • You have to create for your audience. “Who’s your psychographic? Who's the ideal person or people that you want walking through and smiling and laughing and being their best selves in this place?” - Dan Ryan
  • There’s so much neuroplasticity in the brain that it’s always possible to change and improve as a person. The brain is constantly rewiring itself and reforming, “You can absolutely regenerate right now” - Hilary Illick
  • The inequities in our world need to be discussed with open hearts and active listening. 
  • Writing can be a tremendous method of regenerating yourself, especially in conjunction with meditation and self-reflection. Like travel or new experiences, writing can be its own terrain of discovery.
  • Hilary’s most craved food - fresh green vegetables - “They make me feel cared for”
  • Hilary’s advice to her younger self: It’s trial and error. You’re not supposed to be someone, you already are who you are. You just need to listen to yourself to find out. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

20:52 “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually, I think we as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body. The body heals itself. The body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions. “ - Hilary Illick


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

17:10 - The Graduate in New Haven CT, Hotel One in Brooklyn NY

19:50 - Danny Meyer’s Hospitality Quotient

24:37 - Arthur, on PBS

40:17 - Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 system

45:31 - Bob Hoffman: “I’m changing the world one person at a time.” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 08 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2941 When was the last time you deeply listened to someone else? When was the last time you deeply listened to yourself?

 

Hilary Illick, senior faculty member at the Hoffman Institute, joins Dan Ryan to discuss open-hearted listening, #sustainability, creativity, and more on this new episode of Defining #Hospitality! Listen to this episode now!

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • The Hoffman Institute’s approach to hospitality is by meeting everyone with a deep unconditional welcome. Nonjudgemental listening gives people the opportunity to speak their truth. 
  • Teaching a disruptive student requires patience and listening. While it’s not good for the group if one student requires the majority of a teacher’s attention, what a disruptive student wants most is to be understood and soothed. 
  • Sustainability is something that’s being taken more into account in hospitality now, especially as investors begin to see the positive impacts both economic and environmental, and it’s important to consider as we continue to build into the future. 
  • “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually. I think. I think we really needed as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body, the body heals itself, the body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions.”
  • “I think the creative process is a process of deep listening. Actually, you're listening to spirit, you're listening to the creative muse. Michelangelo said, “David was in the stone.” He didn't think “Oh, I’m gonna make this man out of the stone.” He worked with the stone. He was actually listening to the contours of the rock to make this incredible statue.” - Hilary Illick
  • You have to create for your audience. “Who’s your psychographic? Who's the ideal person or people that you want walking through and smiling and laughing and being their best selves in this place?” - Dan Ryan
  • There’s so much neuroplasticity in the brain that it’s always possible to change and improve as a person. The brain is constantly rewiring itself and reforming, “You can absolutely regenerate right now” - Hilary Illick
  • The inequities in our world need to be discussed with open hearts and active listening. 
  • Writing can be a tremendous method of regenerating yourself, especially in conjunction with meditation and self-reflection. Like travel or new experiences, writing can be its own terrain of discovery.
  • Hilary’s most craved food - fresh green vegetables - “They make me feel cared for”
  • Hilary’s advice to her younger self: It’s trial and error. You’re not supposed to be someone, you already are who you are. You just need to listen to yourself to find out. 

 

Quote of the Show:

 

20:52 “I don't think we can underestimate the power of open-hearted listening. Actually, I think we as kids, we all needed to be heard and seen and understood. And as adults, if we can give that experience to each other of actually really listening to someone, how they're feeling, what they're up against. Very often people come to their own solutions. It's like the body. The body heals itself. The body's this miraculous healing organism. And so is the psyche. If given the proper care, I think we heal ourselves really well. And often when I'm deeply listening, people are making suggestions that they might not even hear themselves saying about their own solutions. “ - Hilary Illick


Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

17:10 - The Graduate in New Haven CT, Hotel One in Brooklyn NY

19:50 - Danny Meyer’s Hospitality Quotient

24:37 - Arthur, on PBS

40:17 - Warren Rustand’s 10-10-10 system

45:31 - Bob Hoffman: “I’m changing the world one person at a time.” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan Home Away From Home - Michael Dobin - Defining Hospitality #005 5 5 Home Away From Home - Michael Dobin - Defining Hospitality #005 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/a770f1be-9337-3c48-ae3f-d7301527305f https://share.transistor.fm/s/926ed62c What makes you feel most at home? Is it some comfy furniture, a familiar scene, or is it something far deeper?

 

Mikey Dobin, President of Valley Forge Fabrics stops by to share his perspective and swap stories with his lifelong best friend, Dan Ryan. Listen to the episode for more laughs & poignant insights into the hospitality industry like the ones below!

 

Takeaways:

  • “Hospitality is a place where I feel like it's home away from home.” - Mikey Dobin
  • What makes a hotel feel like home is a good environment mixed with social aspects. Places where you can joke with the front desk clerks, or have a good conversation with employees there. Rigorous processes can get in the way sometimes.
  • The best way to engage with people is to listen. People want to be heard. In Mikey’s experience, getting down to real human connection immediately gets people to open up to him faster.
  • Culture is more important than a good strategy, but culture is more than a buzzword & a ping pong table. Culture is how you work, how you interact when you work, how you interact when you’re having fun.
  • “I feel like I never really knew how to run a business until the pandemic” - Mikey Dobin
  • There is a measurable ROI when putting your people first, because it translates to the client that the company takes care of its employees. Your output from investing in culture is a better quality of service.
  • The pandemic has magnified large divides not just economically, but in terms of safety & comfort. It has also shown just how resilient humankind can be. 

 

Quote of the Show: 

  • “You could definitely feel the difference in a hotel that's going to be your part of a transaction versus a hotel that is a little bit more owned by someone with a little bit more passion for the business.” - Mikey 
  • 2021 is going to be the Year of Hugs #YOH

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs - 

 

31:36 - The W Hotel in San Francisco

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What makes you feel most at home? Is it some comfy furniture, a familiar scene, or is it something far deeper?

 

Mikey Dobin, President of Valley Forge Fabrics stops by to share his perspective and swap stories with his lifelong best friend, Dan Ryan. Listen to the episode for more laughs & poignant insights into the hospitality industry like the ones below!

 

Takeaways:

  • “Hospitality is a place where I feel like it's home away from home.” - Mikey Dobin
  • What makes a hotel feel like home is a good environment mixed with social aspects. Places where you can joke with the front desk clerks, or have a good conversation with employees there. Rigorous processes can get in the way sometimes.
  • The best way to engage with people is to listen. People want to be heard. In Mikey’s experience, getting down to real human connection immediately gets people to open up to him faster.
  • Culture is more important than a good strategy, but culture is more than a buzzword & a ping pong table. Culture is how you work, how you interact when you work, how you interact when you’re having fun.
  • “I feel like I never really knew how to run a business until the pandemic” - Mikey Dobin
  • There is a measurable ROI when putting your people first, because it translates to the client that the company takes care of its employees. Your output from investing in culture is a better quality of service.
  • The pandemic has magnified large divides not just economically, but in terms of safety & comfort. It has also shown just how resilient humankind can be. 

 

Quote of the Show: 

  • “You could definitely feel the difference in a hotel that's going to be your part of a transaction versus a hotel that is a little bit more owned by someone with a little bit more passion for the business.” - Mikey 
  • 2021 is going to be the Year of Hugs #YOH

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs - 

 

31:36 - The W Hotel in San Francisco

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3610 What makes you feel most at home? Is it some comfy furniture, a familiar scene, or is it something far deeper?

 

Mikey Dobin, President of Valley Forge Fabrics stops by to share his perspective and swap stories with his lifelong best friend, Dan Ryan. Listen to the episode for more laughs & poignant insights into the hospitality industry like the ones below!

 

Takeaways:

  • “Hospitality is a place where I feel like it's home away from home.” - Mikey Dobin
  • What makes a hotel feel like home is a good environment mixed with social aspects. Places where you can joke with the front desk clerks, or have a good conversation with employees there. Rigorous processes can get in the way sometimes.
  • The best way to engage with people is to listen. People want to be heard. In Mikey’s experience, getting down to real human connection immediately gets people to open up to him faster.
  • Culture is more important than a good strategy, but culture is more than a buzzword & a ping pong table. Culture is how you work, how you interact when you work, how you interact when you’re having fun.
  • “I feel like I never really knew how to run a business until the pandemic” - Mikey Dobin
  • There is a measurable ROI when putting your people first, because it translates to the client that the company takes care of its employees. Your output from investing in culture is a better quality of service.
  • The pandemic has magnified large divides not just economically, but in terms of safety & comfort. It has also shown just how resilient humankind can be. 

 

Quote of the Show: 

  • “You could definitely feel the difference in a hotel that's going to be your part of a transaction versus a hotel that is a little bit more owned by someone with a little bit more passion for the business.” - Mikey 
  • 2021 is going to be the Year of Hugs #YOH

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs - 

 

31:36 - The W Hotel in San Francisco

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan A Cookie Feeds All Ages - Loren Brill - Defining Hospitality #004 4 4 A Cookie Feeds All Ages - Loren Brill - Defining Hospitality #004 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/3ee79ef5-2ced-3b66-9cb6-c397d40704fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/295021a9 Is anything as universal as a cookie?

 

Loren Brill, founder and CEO of Sweet Loren’s, stops by to talk about continuing her company's meteoric growth during a pandemic, building an inclusive culture, and setting an example for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Food is more than just nourishment, it’s a way for us to connect with each other. Sharing food, especially healthy food, is a great way to build communities & make our bodies feel better in the process
  • Loren’s advice for getting people to feel comfortable and open up: no judgement. Trust your team & celebrate their diversity by creating an open & welcoming environment.
  • Loren grew her company on both coasts during the pandemic by non-work team building opportunities and being flexible with things like scheduling or remote working. And going up against established giants in the packaged food industry, their success comes from thinking about how they can outsmart their competition, rather than try to spend millions on marketing.
  • One of the best ways to promote gender diversity in entrepreneurship is to give more visibility to female entrepreneurs. It helps normalize the idea for young girls that they can achieve their dreams and be part of the next generation of business leaders. 
  • The key to a good hospitality experience: make everyone feel important. Going the extra mile for your customer, whether it’s a hotel guest or purchaser for a supermarket chain, is something that can be set up as a system and built into your culture. 
  • Innovation and growth can come from anywhere, even customer suggestions. Good customer relationships can allow you to test new ideas in a way that creates honest and constructive feedback, while still relying on traditional industry research to identify open space in the market for innovation. 
  • Loren’s advice to her younger self: Take advantage of every day. Make sure you’re enjoying as much of life as possible, and don’t be so hard on yourself. Because you’re capable of conquering your wildest dreams.

 

Quote of the Show:

20:46 - “We have amazing fans and we get emails and messages all the time from parents that say that their daughter loves our cookie dough and loves seeing the back of our package. I have the story of how I created Sweet Loren's in a picture of me. And I think them just seeing that and being like, oh my God, that's it, that's a pretty young female, like, I could do that. I can do whatever I want, and I think just having more, seeing more role models out there of women just normalizes it so that, whoever you are, whatever age you are, you don't think it's weird or super hard. You're not at a disadvantage. If you're female it's totally been done, it's totally doable. And women should dream as big as they want.” - Loren Brill 


Links: 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Is anything as universal as a cookie?

 

Loren Brill, founder and CEO of Sweet Loren’s, stops by to talk about continuing her company's meteoric growth during a pandemic, building an inclusive culture, and setting an example for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Food is more than just nourishment, it’s a way for us to connect with each other. Sharing food, especially healthy food, is a great way to build communities & make our bodies feel better in the process
  • Loren’s advice for getting people to feel comfortable and open up: no judgement. Trust your team & celebrate their diversity by creating an open & welcoming environment.
  • Loren grew her company on both coasts during the pandemic by non-work team building opportunities and being flexible with things like scheduling or remote working. And going up against established giants in the packaged food industry, their success comes from thinking about how they can outsmart their competition, rather than try to spend millions on marketing.
  • One of the best ways to promote gender diversity in entrepreneurship is to give more visibility to female entrepreneurs. It helps normalize the idea for young girls that they can achieve their dreams and be part of the next generation of business leaders. 
  • The key to a good hospitality experience: make everyone feel important. Going the extra mile for your customer, whether it’s a hotel guest or purchaser for a supermarket chain, is something that can be set up as a system and built into your culture. 
  • Innovation and growth can come from anywhere, even customer suggestions. Good customer relationships can allow you to test new ideas in a way that creates honest and constructive feedback, while still relying on traditional industry research to identify open space in the market for innovation. 
  • Loren’s advice to her younger self: Take advantage of every day. Make sure you’re enjoying as much of life as possible, and don’t be so hard on yourself. Because you’re capable of conquering your wildest dreams.

 

Quote of the Show:

20:46 - “We have amazing fans and we get emails and messages all the time from parents that say that their daughter loves our cookie dough and loves seeing the back of our package. I have the story of how I created Sweet Loren's in a picture of me. And I think them just seeing that and being like, oh my God, that's it, that's a pretty young female, like, I could do that. I can do whatever I want, and I think just having more, seeing more role models out there of women just normalizes it so that, whoever you are, whatever age you are, you don't think it's weird or super hard. You're not at a disadvantage. If you're female it's totally been done, it's totally doable. And women should dream as big as they want.” - Loren Brill 


Links: 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 2868 Is anything as universal as a cookie?

 

Loren Brill, founder and CEO of Sweet Loren’s, stops by to talk about continuing her company's meteoric growth during a pandemic, building an inclusive culture, and setting an example for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Food is more than just nourishment, it’s a way for us to connect with each other. Sharing food, especially healthy food, is a great way to build communities & make our bodies feel better in the process
  • Loren’s advice for getting people to feel comfortable and open up: no judgement. Trust your team & celebrate their diversity by creating an open & welcoming environment.
  • Loren grew her company on both coasts during the pandemic by non-work team building opportunities and being flexible with things like scheduling or remote working. And going up against established giants in the packaged food industry, their success comes from thinking about how they can outsmart their competition, rather than try to spend millions on marketing.
  • One of the best ways to promote gender diversity in entrepreneurship is to give more visibility to female entrepreneurs. It helps normalize the idea for young girls that they can achieve their dreams and be part of the next generation of business leaders. 
  • The key to a good hospitality experience: make everyone feel important. Going the extra mile for your customer, whether it’s a hotel guest or purchaser for a supermarket chain, is something that can be set up as a system and built into your culture. 
  • Innovation and growth can come from anywhere, even customer suggestions. Good customer relationships can allow you to test new ideas in a way that creates honest and constructive feedback, while still relying on traditional industry research to identify open space in the market for innovation. 
  • Loren’s advice to her younger self: Take advantage of every day. Make sure you’re enjoying as much of life as possible, and don’t be so hard on yourself. Because you’re capable of conquering your wildest dreams.

 

Quote of the Show:

20:46 - “We have amazing fans and we get emails and messages all the time from parents that say that their daughter loves our cookie dough and loves seeing the back of our package. I have the story of how I created Sweet Loren's in a picture of me. And I think them just seeing that and being like, oh my God, that's it, that's a pretty young female, like, I could do that. I can do whatever I want, and I think just having more, seeing more role models out there of women just normalizes it so that, whoever you are, whatever age you are, you don't think it's weird or super hard. You're not at a disadvantage. If you're female it's totally been done, it's totally doable. And women should dream as big as they want.” - Loren Brill 


Links: 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan River Guide Leadership - Chris Green - Defining Hospitality #003 3 3 River Guide Leadership - Chris Green - Defining Hospitality #003 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/3ba62821-7dc9-3ac5-9e93-74583d395d3f https://share.transistor.fm/s/8ac27f99 What makes a strong leader?

 

According to Chris Green, President & CEO of Chesapeake Hospitality, a good leader is like a river guide - they’ve been through the rapids before, but know how to get the best out of their team without jumping in and paddling for them. Listen in as Chris joins host Dan Ryan to discuss the different ways leadership can be nurtured and cultivated while navigating the rushing waters of the hospitality industry.

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Leadership requires not only being able to trust your people, but to give them the tools they need to be leaders themselves.
  • Tough decisions can be painful, but they can be the right choice in the end. Navigating tough times while putting people first involves creating plans that are customized for individuals and groups. 
  • Hospitality is something you should practice everyday. It’s about having a genuine concern for a positive outcome for others. Chris draws on his family & southern upbringing when thinking about how to go the extra mile for someone in your care. 
  • Take the time to get to know the individual. “People are not to be blueprinted, everybody’s different.” - Chris
  • The number one trait in future leaders is curiosity. People who ask questions show engagement with the task at hand.
  • A strong-willed leader can overcome difficult challenges, but they can also lead a team in the wrong direction at times. 
  • Advice to Chris’ younger self: Learn from your leaders, for good or for bad. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but learn from your mistakes. 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 -”To me it's just genuine care and concern for a positive outcome for others. And that, that is hospitality. And that's, what's cool about that is it's our, my living and it's also my life. And what I mean by that is, just because I make money doing it in the hotel business, hospitality is something that you should practice every day, whether it's with your neighbor or with the person that's the grocery store or whatever, the person who's frustrating you at a grocery store, you know, it's, it's how we treat our fellow humans.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

49:50 - Warren Rustand, “The Leader Within Us” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What makes a strong leader?

 

According to Chris Green, President & CEO of Chesapeake Hospitality, a good leader is like a river guide - they’ve been through the rapids before, but know how to get the best out of their team without jumping in and paddling for them. Listen in as Chris joins host Dan Ryan to discuss the different ways leadership can be nurtured and cultivated while navigating the rushing waters of the hospitality industry.

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Leadership requires not only being able to trust your people, but to give them the tools they need to be leaders themselves.
  • Tough decisions can be painful, but they can be the right choice in the end. Navigating tough times while putting people first involves creating plans that are customized for individuals and groups. 
  • Hospitality is something you should practice everyday. It’s about having a genuine concern for a positive outcome for others. Chris draws on his family & southern upbringing when thinking about how to go the extra mile for someone in your care. 
  • Take the time to get to know the individual. “People are not to be blueprinted, everybody’s different.” - Chris
  • The number one trait in future leaders is curiosity. People who ask questions show engagement with the task at hand.
  • A strong-willed leader can overcome difficult challenges, but they can also lead a team in the wrong direction at times. 
  • Advice to Chris’ younger self: Learn from your leaders, for good or for bad. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but learn from your mistakes. 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 -”To me it's just genuine care and concern for a positive outcome for others. And that, that is hospitality. And that's, what's cool about that is it's our, my living and it's also my life. And what I mean by that is, just because I make money doing it in the hotel business, hospitality is something that you should practice every day, whether it's with your neighbor or with the person that's the grocery store or whatever, the person who's frustrating you at a grocery store, you know, it's, it's how we treat our fellow humans.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

49:50 - Warren Rustand, “The Leader Within Us” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4062 What makes a strong leader?

 

According to Chris Green, President & CEO of Chesapeake Hospitality, a good leader is like a river guide - they’ve been through the rapids before, but know how to get the best out of their team without jumping in and paddling for them. Listen in as Chris joins host Dan Ryan to discuss the different ways leadership can be nurtured and cultivated while navigating the rushing waters of the hospitality industry.

 

Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • Leadership requires not only being able to trust your people, but to give them the tools they need to be leaders themselves.
  • Tough decisions can be painful, but they can be the right choice in the end. Navigating tough times while putting people first involves creating plans that are customized for individuals and groups. 
  • Hospitality is something you should practice everyday. It’s about having a genuine concern for a positive outcome for others. Chris draws on his family & southern upbringing when thinking about how to go the extra mile for someone in your care. 
  • Take the time to get to know the individual. “People are not to be blueprinted, everybody’s different.” - Chris
  • The number one trait in future leaders is curiosity. People who ask questions show engagement with the task at hand.
  • A strong-willed leader can overcome difficult challenges, but they can also lead a team in the wrong direction at times. 
  • Advice to Chris’ younger self: Learn from your leaders, for good or for bad. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but learn from your mistakes. 

Quote of the Show:

13:15 -”To me it's just genuine care and concern for a positive outcome for others. And that, that is hospitality. And that's, what's cool about that is it's our, my living and it's also my life. And what I mean by that is, just because I make money doing it in the hotel business, hospitality is something that you should practice every day, whether it's with your neighbor or with the person that's the grocery store or whatever, the person who's frustrating you at a grocery store, you know, it's, it's how we treat our fellow humans.”


Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

49:50 - Warren Rustand, “The Leader Within Us” 


Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan It's All About How You Fix It - Misha Bedner - Defining Hospitality #002 2 2 It's All About How You Fix It - Misha Bedner - Defining Hospitality #002 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/b8bcd681-c9b5-3e42-a081-87fd4f754157 https://share.transistor.fm/s/972fc3b9 When something goes wrong, how do you react? Do you throw your hands up in frustration and surrender, or do you try to fix the problem? 

 

Misha Bedner, President of Agency 967, advises to remain calm when things go haywire, because he knows the best thing you can do is approach the situation with a positive attitude and focus on the customer experience. Check out the podcast for more great insights like the ones you see below!

 

Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about service. A great customer interaction can be more impactful than outstanding design or furniture fixtures. 
  • Misha credits his dad Michael with introducing him to the hospitality industry, & how to create a shared experience with customers - “If a client invites you to do karaoke, you go out and do karaoke!” 
  • When something happens that’s out of your control, it’s how you approach the problem that creates a good or bad experience. Relying on policy can make service feel automatic, when the focus should be on the customer’s experience.
  • When you go to a new destination, take in something that is culturally unique to where you are. Visit a museum or landmark, try local food, find something that you’ve never done before & try it!
  • It’s important to bring a sense of mindfulness to hospitality & be intentional in the space, in the interaction, in the connection.  
  • Misha learned how to deal with tough customers by serving bodybuilders at the Firehouse in Santa Monica. But being aware, specific, & mindful about specific customers’ needs can help build stronger relationships.
  • “S#!& is gonna happen, it’s all about how you fix it.” - Misha 
  • New projects are starting to return in the post-pandemic world, but there’s a bottleneck in the supply chain that affects timelines. Patience is important, because we’re moving onwards & upwards, even if it’s not as quickly as we’re used to right now.
  • Advice for Misha’s younger self: Take more risks

 

Quote of the Show: 

"The process of a hotel coming into being is so many people working, designing, and coming together and combining their forces to make something beautiful. I think it's spectacular. And there's people who are involved on the design side. And if you, look over their shoulder and they're, space planning a guest room, or they're drawing out what light fixture that's gonna fit next to the bed. All those, those million different little facets of how a hotel comes together. That's so beautiful to me. The sad thing is, that's like 2% of how a hotel comes together. All that, all that fun design, all the sexy stuff. It's such a small little thing in the whole big picture." - Misha

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

5:27 - Justin in Santa Monica

10:23 - Michael Bedner

19:30 - National Museum in India

35:57 - The Firehouse In Santa Monica

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> When something goes wrong, how do you react? Do you throw your hands up in frustration and surrender, or do you try to fix the problem? 

 

Misha Bedner, President of Agency 967, advises to remain calm when things go haywire, because he knows the best thing you can do is approach the situation with a positive attitude and focus on the customer experience. Check out the podcast for more great insights like the ones you see below!

 

Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about service. A great customer interaction can be more impactful than outstanding design or furniture fixtures. 
  • Misha credits his dad Michael with introducing him to the hospitality industry, & how to create a shared experience with customers - “If a client invites you to do karaoke, you go out and do karaoke!” 
  • When something happens that’s out of your control, it’s how you approach the problem that creates a good or bad experience. Relying on policy can make service feel automatic, when the focus should be on the customer’s experience.
  • When you go to a new destination, take in something that is culturally unique to where you are. Visit a museum or landmark, try local food, find something that you’ve never done before & try it!
  • It’s important to bring a sense of mindfulness to hospitality & be intentional in the space, in the interaction, in the connection.  
  • Misha learned how to deal with tough customers by serving bodybuilders at the Firehouse in Santa Monica. But being aware, specific, & mindful about specific customers’ needs can help build stronger relationships.
  • “S#!& is gonna happen, it’s all about how you fix it.” - Misha 
  • New projects are starting to return in the post-pandemic world, but there’s a bottleneck in the supply chain that affects timelines. Patience is important, because we’re moving onwards & upwards, even if it’s not as quickly as we’re used to right now.
  • Advice for Misha’s younger self: Take more risks

 

Quote of the Show: 

"The process of a hotel coming into being is so many people working, designing, and coming together and combining their forces to make something beautiful. I think it's spectacular. And there's people who are involved on the design side. And if you, look over their shoulder and they're, space planning a guest room, or they're drawing out what light fixture that's gonna fit next to the bed. All those, those million different little facets of how a hotel comes together. That's so beautiful to me. The sad thing is, that's like 2% of how a hotel comes together. All that, all that fun design, all the sexy stuff. It's such a small little thing in the whole big picture." - Misha

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

5:27 - Justin in Santa Monica

10:23 - Michael Bedner

19:30 - National Museum in India

35:57 - The Firehouse In Santa Monica

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Thu, 12 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 3253 When something goes wrong, how do you react? Do you throw your hands up in frustration and surrender, or do you try to fix the problem? 

 

Misha Bedner, President of Agency 967, advises to remain calm when things go haywire, because he knows the best thing you can do is approach the situation with a positive attitude and focus on the customer experience. Check out the podcast for more great insights like the ones you see below!

 

Takeaways:

  • Hospitality is about service. A great customer interaction can be more impactful than outstanding design or furniture fixtures. 
  • Misha credits his dad Michael with introducing him to the hospitality industry, & how to create a shared experience with customers - “If a client invites you to do karaoke, you go out and do karaoke!” 
  • When something happens that’s out of your control, it’s how you approach the problem that creates a good or bad experience. Relying on policy can make service feel automatic, when the focus should be on the customer’s experience.
  • When you go to a new destination, take in something that is culturally unique to where you are. Visit a museum or landmark, try local food, find something that you’ve never done before & try it!
  • It’s important to bring a sense of mindfulness to hospitality & be intentional in the space, in the interaction, in the connection.  
  • Misha learned how to deal with tough customers by serving bodybuilders at the Firehouse in Santa Monica. But being aware, specific, & mindful about specific customers’ needs can help build stronger relationships.
  • “S#!& is gonna happen, it’s all about how you fix it.” - Misha 
  • New projects are starting to return in the post-pandemic world, but there’s a bottleneck in the supply chain that affects timelines. Patience is important, because we’re moving onwards & upwards, even if it’s not as quickly as we’re used to right now.
  • Advice for Misha’s younger self: Take more risks

 

Quote of the Show: 

"The process of a hotel coming into being is so many people working, designing, and coming together and combining their forces to make something beautiful. I think it's spectacular. And there's people who are involved on the design side. And if you, look over their shoulder and they're, space planning a guest room, or they're drawing out what light fixture that's gonna fit next to the bed. All those, those million different little facets of how a hotel comes together. That's so beautiful to me. The sad thing is, that's like 2% of how a hotel comes together. All that, all that fun design, all the sexy stuff. It's such a small little thing in the whole big picture." - Misha

 

Links:

 

Shout Outs: 

5:27 - Justin in Santa Monica

10:23 - Michael Bedner

19:30 - National Museum in India

35:57 - The Firehouse In Santa Monica

 

Ways to Tune In: 

 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan How You Make People Feel - Bashar Wali - Defining Hospitality #001 1 1 How You Make People Feel - Bashar Wali - Defining Hospitality #001 full defininghospitality.podbean.com/fddd9697-285c-3c1f-8113-ab0a37350704 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6e4b3793 What do you remember most about a hotel experience? For some, it may be the furnishings or fabulous architecture. But for Bashar Wali, Founder & CEO of Practice Hospitality and This Assembly, it’s about the moments of real human interaction and connection that matter most. 

 

In this episode, Bashar Wali joins Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him, ways we can improve diversity throughout the industry, & the future of hospitality. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • “Fundamentally the difference between the service industry, which is what you deliver, versus the hospitality industry is the following: hospitality is how you make people feel.”
  • Authenticity is more than just having an unapologetic point of view, it comes from a place of being yourself. 
  • Hospitality is not just about luxury, it comes from believing that you are there to make someone’s life better for more than just one moment in time.
  • The new definition of luxury is ultra personalization. Understand the wants and needs of the customer, and utilize available technology to serve those needs. 
  • You can’t train on culture & community, but you can build it by showing your employees that they treated as more than just part of the team
  • Don’t treat guests differently based on market segment or source of business - treat them as an opportunity to win over a new customer.
  • Diversity in hospitality is one sided - while the lowest levels have tremendous diversity, leadership has far less. To improve this, we can do a better job of encouraging & creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. It’s a lot more than just talk, and it can take generations to fix.
  • The future of hospitality is in sustainability & utilizing big data to optimize human experiences. As our society breaks down binary barriers, hospitality has an opportunity to be at the center of it all.
  • Don’t think of technology as cutting on cost, but to remove friction from human interactions
  • Every new customer, every new person you talk to, is an opportunity to see the world through their eyes & understand their wants and needs.
  • “Never turn down a meeting, because you’ll never know what you will learn.” - Bashar

 

Quote of the Show:

“People ask me why I got into this business. Where I grew up, there's a saying that goes, ‘When a stranger shows up at your door, feed him for three days before you ask him who he is, where he's from, where he's going to. Because by then, he'll either be strong enough to tell you, or you'll be such good friends it won't matter.’ That is hospitality.”  ~ Bashar Wali

 

Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

10:24 - The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

11:36 - Danny Meyer - Union Square Hospitality Group - “The Hospitality Quotient”

26:09 - Bill Kimpton’s Core Principles

26:38 - Joie de Vivre / Chip Conley

38:27 - Damon Lawerence, Homage Suite 

41:03 - Independent Lodging Congress

51:32 - MaidBots

55:39 - Simon Sinek, Start With Why

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> What do you remember most about a hotel experience? For some, it may be the furnishings or fabulous architecture. But for Bashar Wali, Founder & CEO of Practice Hospitality and This Assembly, it’s about the moments of real human interaction and connection that matter most. 

 

In this episode, Bashar Wali joins Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him, ways we can improve diversity throughout the industry, & the future of hospitality. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • “Fundamentally the difference between the service industry, which is what you deliver, versus the hospitality industry is the following: hospitality is how you make people feel.”
  • Authenticity is more than just having an unapologetic point of view, it comes from a place of being yourself. 
  • Hospitality is not just about luxury, it comes from believing that you are there to make someone’s life better for more than just one moment in time.
  • The new definition of luxury is ultra personalization. Understand the wants and needs of the customer, and utilize available technology to serve those needs. 
  • You can’t train on culture & community, but you can build it by showing your employees that they treated as more than just part of the team
  • Don’t treat guests differently based on market segment or source of business - treat them as an opportunity to win over a new customer.
  • Diversity in hospitality is one sided - while the lowest levels have tremendous diversity, leadership has far less. To improve this, we can do a better job of encouraging & creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. It’s a lot more than just talk, and it can take generations to fix.
  • The future of hospitality is in sustainability & utilizing big data to optimize human experiences. As our society breaks down binary barriers, hospitality has an opportunity to be at the center of it all.
  • Don’t think of technology as cutting on cost, but to remove friction from human interactions
  • Every new customer, every new person you talk to, is an opportunity to see the world through their eyes & understand their wants and needs.
  • “Never turn down a meeting, because you’ll never know what you will learn.” - Bashar

 

Quote of the Show:

“People ask me why I got into this business. Where I grew up, there's a saying that goes, ‘When a stranger shows up at your door, feed him for three days before you ask him who he is, where he's from, where he's going to. Because by then, he'll either be strong enough to tell you, or you'll be such good friends it won't matter.’ That is hospitality.”  ~ Bashar Wali

 

Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

10:24 - The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

11:36 - Danny Meyer - Union Square Hospitality Group - “The Hospitality Quotient”

26:09 - Bill Kimpton’s Core Principles

26:38 - Joie de Vivre / Chip Conley

38:27 - Damon Lawerence, Homage Suite 

41:03 - Independent Lodging Congress

51:32 - MaidBots

55:39 - Simon Sinek, Start With Why

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Thu, 05 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400 defininghospitality defininghospitality 4132 What do you remember most about a hotel experience? For some, it may be the furnishings or fabulous architecture. But for Bashar Wali, Founder & CEO of Practice Hospitality and This Assembly, it’s about the moments of real human interaction and connection that matter most. 

 

In this episode, Bashar Wali joins Dan Ryan to talk about what hospitality means to him, ways we can improve diversity throughout the industry, & the future of hospitality. Check out some takeaways from this episode below:

  • “Fundamentally the difference between the service industry, which is what you deliver, versus the hospitality industry is the following: hospitality is how you make people feel.”
  • Authenticity is more than just having an unapologetic point of view, it comes from a place of being yourself. 
  • Hospitality is not just about luxury, it comes from believing that you are there to make someone’s life better for more than just one moment in time.
  • The new definition of luxury is ultra personalization. Understand the wants and needs of the customer, and utilize available technology to serve those needs. 
  • You can’t train on culture & community, but you can build it by showing your employees that they treated as more than just part of the team
  • Don’t treat guests differently based on market segment or source of business - treat them as an opportunity to win over a new customer.
  • Diversity in hospitality is one sided - while the lowest levels have tremendous diversity, leadership has far less. To improve this, we can do a better job of encouraging & creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. It’s a lot more than just talk, and it can take generations to fix.
  • The future of hospitality is in sustainability & utilizing big data to optimize human experiences. As our society breaks down binary barriers, hospitality has an opportunity to be at the center of it all.
  • Don’t think of technology as cutting on cost, but to remove friction from human interactions
  • Every new customer, every new person you talk to, is an opportunity to see the world through their eyes & understand their wants and needs.
  • “Never turn down a meeting, because you’ll never know what you will learn.” - Bashar

 

Quote of the Show:

“People ask me why I got into this business. Where I grew up, there's a saying that goes, ‘When a stranger shows up at your door, feed him for three days before you ask him who he is, where he's from, where he's going to. Because by then, he'll either be strong enough to tell you, or you'll be such good friends it won't matter.’ That is hospitality.”  ~ Bashar Wali

 

Links: 

 

Shout Outs: 

10:24 - The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

11:36 - Danny Meyer - Union Square Hospitality Group - “The Hospitality Quotient”

26:09 - Bill Kimpton’s Core Principles

26:38 - Joie de Vivre / Chip Conley

38:27 - Damon Lawerence, Homage Suite 

41:03 - Independent Lodging Congress

51:32 - MaidBots

55:39 - Simon Sinek, Start With Why

 

Ways to Tune In: 

]]> Hospitality Design, Interior Design, Hospitality, Hospitality Industry, Custom Furniture, Hotels, Hotel, Hotels and Resorts, Capital Expenditures, Capex No Dan Ryan